The indispensable role of unions in empowering Black workers and strengthening their political influence took center stage at the National Black Labor Leaders Breakfast roundtable, held during the Congressional Black Caucus Annual Legislative Conference this month in Washington, D.C.
Richard Jackson, president of the Council of School Officers (CSO), AFSA Local 4, and CSO Vice President Dr. Robert Saunders participated in the discussion, which emphasized the critical role unions play in advancing economic justice for Black communities. Key topics included the Black Wealth Agenda, addressing the skills gap, labor shortages, and expanding grants for skills training and apprenticeship programs.
The roundtable, chaired by U.S. Reps. Steven Horsford of Nevada and Ayanna Pressley of Massachusetts, along with Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU) President Terry Melvin, explored the intersection of labor and racial equity.
Attendees, including National Education Association (NEA) President Becky Pringle and Communications Workers of America (CWA) President Claude Cummings, emphasized that union solidarity is essential to boosting voter turnout and driving systemic change to address inequities in the labor market.
Jackson, who also serves as an AFSA general vice president, highlighted the power of collective action, stating, “Our ability to mobilize and demand change through unions is essential to securing a fairer, more equitable future for Black workers. It's about more than just wages—it’s about dignity, opportunity and justice.”
The CBC conference continues to serve as a vital forum for addressing critical issues affecting African American people, reinforcing the importance of partnerships in promoting political and economic empowerment. The unity showcased at the event reflected the growing movement for racial and economic justice across the country.
As the event ended, the message was clear: collective action and solidarity are key to uplifting Black workers. As Jackson powerfully stated, “Together, we rise.”
