United in purpose, driven by progress — this weekend’s ATU International Black Caucus meeting in Maryland was a powerful testament to the strength and unity of our ATU family. Members and leaders from across North America came together to celebrate our legacy, confront the challenges we face, and chart a bold path forward.
To start day two, members were treated to a beautiful performance by Fearless Empire Dance Group and a special presentation by International President John Costa regarding the 61st Convention in New York City in August. Throughout the day, members heard about the origin and purpose of the Black Caucus, the current state of the Union, and how to organize for power.
These workshops, strategy sessions, and heartfelt conversations reminded us why we do this work—not just for ourselves, but for every worker who deserves dignity, equity, and a voice on the job. The energy in the room was electric, grounded in determination, and focused on action.
Elections were also held for Caucus officers, which Costa had the honor to install. Congratulations to the new ATU International Black Caucus President Karima Howard (Local 85-Pittsburgh, PA), Vice President Robin Ward (Local 1300-Baltimore, MD, Financial Secretary Chantel Daniels-Jones (Local 1197-Jacksonville, FL), Recording Secretary Raynell Reed (Local 689-Washington, DC), and the seven regional representatives including West Coast Tommy McGill (Local 192-Oakland, CA), Midwest Pennie McCoach (Local 308-Chicago, IL), Southeast Patricia Giles (Local 732-Atlanta, GA), Southwest Valerie Jefferson (Local 1560-New Orleans, LA), Northwest Rose Jordan Fairley (Local 757-Portland, OR), Northeast Sellers Corey Davis (Local 726-Staten Island, NY), and Canada Grace Udoh (Local 113-Toronto, ON).
Costa was joined at the Black Caucus by International Executive Vice President Yvette Trujillo, International Secretary-Treasurer Ken Kirk, and International Vice Presidents Marcellus Barnes, Gary Johnson, Curtis Howard, Anthony Garland, Amanda Sawyer-Turner, Mark Henry, and Ken Day.
Gratitude to all the organizers, speakers, and members who made this event a success. Let’s take this momentum back to our Locals and every corner of the transit industry.