Please join us in congratulating one of our own, ATU International Secretary-Treasurer Ken Kirk, who was honored today with the John Lewis Labor Leader Award by the Dallas, Texas, NAACP on John Lewis’s birthday. ATU International President John Costa was in the house, standing shoulder to shoulder with civil rights, labor, and community leaders for the powerful event honoring IST Kirk.
“This award could not be more fitting,” said President Costa. “Ken leads with heart, humility, and an unshakable belief in justice. He understands that the labor movement and the civil rights movement are forever linked, and he has spent his life making sure working people are seen and heard.”
IST Kirk’s story is the story of our union at its best. From his earliest days as a rank-and-file transit worker to his role as International Secretary-Treasurer, he has never lost sight of who we fight for. He has dedicated decades to strengthening our Locals, protecting the financial integrity of ATU, and lifting up working families, always guided by fairness and deep respect for the members he serves.
The John Lewis Labor Leader Award honors those who carry forward a legacy of courage, sacrifice, and moral leadership. Today, that legacy lives on through IST Kenneth Kirk.
Congratulations, Brother Kirk. Your work, your values, and your compassion inspire us all.
Joining Costa at the event were Local 1338 President/Business Agent Donnie Jolly, International Vice President Curtis Howard, and Kenneth Day.