About the Movement

Over the past ten years, Black Labor Week has brought together trade unionists and community activists to celebrate the historical bonds between the labor movement and underserved communities.

This week-long event connects activists and the community through various activities that address specific needs -- retirees, veterans, seniors, homeless men, women and children, and more. It also educates the community and shows the contributions of Black leaders to the labor movement and the Black community that are often unheard of and/or overlooked.

Our program has become a staple for providing resources in Gary, Indiana, surrounding communities, and all the way to the Chicagoland area. 

Black Labor Week was created by Ephrin Jenkins of USW Local 1014 and is held annually. Since then the program has expanded to USW District 4, and the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE).

When young activists come together to celebrate our movement and do the work in our communities, our labor movement becomes much stronger. This is what Black Labor Week does. Our movement is strengthened by the yearly display of solidarity recognizing the historic achievements of black workers in the labor movement.

Officers

Black Labor Week Founder