As we close out the final day of the ATU CAN-AM Conference here in Orlando, FL, we leave stronger, more united, and more inspired than ever.
ATU International President John Costa summed it up best: "This conference proves what we already know—when we unite across countries, Locals, and generations, there’s nothing we can’t achieve. Our fight is international, and so is our solidarity. Our struggles—whether for fair wages, safe working conditions, or respect on the job—are not isolated. They’re shared by workers in every city, every province, and every state. And when we stand together, we amplify our voice, broaden our reach, and deepen our impact.”
From powerful workshops to energizing discussions on organizing, safety, and solidarity across borders, this week has shown the strength of our union when we come together as one voice.
Elections were also held for CAN-AM officers. Congratulations: President Tommy Mason, Vice President Marvin Alfred, Financial Secretary Mario Azzopardi, Recording Secretary Billy Berardino, the 3 Canadian Executive Board Members Dragan Markovic, Jamie Larkin, and Eric Tuck, and the 3 American Executive Board Members Raymond Jackson, Mike McMillian, and Orlando Riley. The Conference also honored retired Chair Emeritus Danny Cassella for the incredible work he’s done on behalf of the conference, his Local 726-Staten Island, and all of us at the ATU and the entire labor movement.
The ATU CAN-AM Conference stands as a powerful testament to the transformative potential of unity and shared purpose. As transit workers from both sides of the border come together, we reinforce the idea that our struggles and victories are interconnected.
Joining Costa for the Conference were International Executive Vice President Yvette Trujillo, International Secretary-Treasurer Ken Kirk, along with International Vice Presidents Manny Sforza, John Callahan, Curtis Howard, Natalie Cruz, Anthony Garland, Steve MacDougall, Ken Wilson, Amanda Sawyer-Turner, Jacques Chapman, Mark Henry, and ATU Canada President John Di Nino.