Earlier this summer, IBEW 1245 members joined more than 400 union delegates, activists, and allies from across the nation at the Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance (APALA) 18th Biennial Convention in Los Angeles.
Held from June 26–29, the convention is APALA’s highest governing body and brings members together every two years to set priorities, elect officers, and strengthen the organization’s role as the leading voice for AAPI workers in the labor movement. This year’s theme — “Solidarity. Resistance. Unity.” — reflected the urgency of the moment, as speakers and participants emphasized the need to stand together against attacks on workers, immigrants, and democracy.
IBEW 1245 was represented by Executive Board member and Organizing Steward Alvin Dayoan, Organizing Stewards Jesse Manipol and John Hoang, Business Rep Adam Weber, and members Vinh Duong and Julian Tayag. For many of these delegates, it was their first time attending an APALA convention.
Skills, Solidarity, and Action
Throughout the four-day gathering, delegates participated in workshops, caucuses, and strategy sessions on topics ranging from organizing and digital communication to immigrant rights and chapter leadership.
One of the most powerful moments came during the Day of Action, when APALA delegates marched through downtown Los Angeles to join UFCW Local 324 workers on strike against Ralphs grocery stores. They were met with cheers from fellow union members, faith leaders, and community allies demanding fair wages and respect at the bargaining table. It was a powerful expression of solidarity and a reminder that labor rights are a shared struggle. Just days later, a tentative agreement was reached.
Building Knowledge and Confidence
Workshops gave members tools to bring back home. Jesse Manipol participated in the “Organizing” and “Know Your Rights” workshops, where he learned about parallels between political climates in the Philippines and the United States. “I brought back a lot of information from this conference,” he said, “but more importantly, a hunger for more.”
Vinh Duong attended sessions on chapter membership and finances, learning how APALA members can grow their local chapters, amend constitutions, and pass resolutions. “The highlight for me was the opportunity to participate in a march in solidarity… it was pretty impressive to see so many people from different unions show up in support,” he said.
For John Hoang, the experience of marching with UFCW workers was unforgettable. “The welcoming cheers from local 770 as APALA members joined the rally simply cannot be explained but felt,” he said.
The Power of Representation
For many delegates, the convention was their first APALA experience. Julian Tayag reflected on the impact of being welcomed by Hawaiian hula dancers on the opening day, hearing inspiring speakers, and participating in workshops on immigration and digital organizing. “The most powerful piece of the conference had to be our solidarity march,” he said. “One major takeaway was the importance of representation. Hearing leaders like U.S. Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh and Julie Su put into perspective the power we all yield when we stand together.”
Looking Ahead
From workshops to solidarity actions, the 18th Biennial APALA Convention left delegates energized and inspired. APALA continues to play a vital role in cultivating leadership and building power among AAPI workers across the labor movement, and IBEW 1245 members returned from Los Angeles with new skills, deeper connections, and a renewed commitment to solidarity, resistance, and unity.