– By Al Fortier, IBEW 1245 Business Representative
The Coalition of Black Trade Unionists 53rd International Convention was held May 21-May 26, 2024. This year’s chosen theme was appropriately, “ Never Back, Always Forward: Hate Cannot Erase Us.”
Foster Goree was one of the IBEW 1245 delegates to the convention. As he explained, “CBTU has played a crucial role in advancing both labor and civil rights initiatives, not only within the United States but also extending its influence to Africa. From contributing to the end of apartheid to actively participating in GOTV efforts to elect former President Obama, CBTU has consistently been at the forefront of impactful actions.”
Labor Movement Victories and Milestones
Many of the speakers remarked on the achievements of Black trade unionists over the last few years. One such example that met with tremendous approval of the delegates was the election of Claude Cummings as the first Black President of the Communication Workers of America (CWA) and the election of April Vernett as the first Black President of the Service Employee International Union (SEIU) in its 103-year history. In the words of CBTU International President, “Black folks is kicking ass in the labor movement.”
Conference speakers also highlighted several of the labor victories and historic strikes in 2023, from the actors strike victory lead by SAG-AFTRA, the nurses strike lead National Nurses United (NNU), and the UAW Big Three Stand Up Strike, to the victorious organizing campaign at Delta Airlines.
Looking Ahead to the Presidential Election
“The convention highlighted the importance of this year’s Presidential election, and how it will greatly affect us black workers in trades and unions. It is very important for us to get out and vote,” reflected IBEW 1245 delegate Serrita Jackson.
“As this was my 2nd CBTU conference, I left again FIRED UP. Hearing the importance of this year’s Presidential election from a few U.S Representatives: Al Green (of Texas), Bennie Thompson (of Mississippi), and Steven Horsford (of Nevada), was very motivational and impactful. This election is so vital, we can’t afford to allow anybody to ‘sit this one out,’” explained Donny Davis, Lead of the IBEW 1245 delegation.
It is certainly not lost on CBTU that Joe Biden is the most pro-union President ever. With the upcoming election in focus, many speakers gave their full-throated support for the current President. Speakers discussed how Biden has placed unions at the forefront of his Build Back Better plan, and is the first and only President to stand on the picket line with striking workers. And to the question of “what has he done for the Black community specifically?,” the list is long. One of the speakers answered that question with: cancelled college debt, invested $7 billion in HBCUs, reduced the wealth gap, increased Black businesses, nominated and confirmed the first Black women to on the Supreme Court, signed Emmett Till Anti-Lynching Act, established Juneteenth as a national holiday, and reduced the cost of insulin. “There is no time in the past that is better than the hope of the future,” the speaker said in his remarks.
Fostering Leadership and Community
The CBTU convention brought together members from various unions and organizations to discuss issues affecting black workers in unions and trades. Panel discussions and workshops went about the task of educating delegates and helping build the skills that make for a successful labor movement—topics included Emerging Leaders’ Style & Vision, Examining Discrimination & Harassment in the Workplace, Intro to Contract Language & Collective Bargaining, Unionism 101, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Operation Vote 2024, Black Votes Matter, Homebuying and more.
“The convention was such an amazing experience, I was inspired by all of the speakers, town hall meetings, and workshops,” reflected IBEW 1245 delegate Danielle Bonds.
“Key topics included promoting diversity and inclusion, advocating for fair wages and benefits, advocating for better safety protocols and rights in the workplace, and supporting training and apprenticeship programs for black workers,” explained Jackson.
The CBTU convention delivered a wealth of information for its participants, including for under 40 workers and first time attendees. Attendees came together for a spiritual service and awards ceremony, and in the evenings met for social gatherings and networking. Thank you to CBTU and the host City of Houston, and especially thanks to IBEW 1245 Executive Board for supporting the Conference, and the delegates that attended.