A Path Forward
As we prepare to gather for our 61st ATU Convention, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey we’ve taken since 2022. When I was elected to serve as your International Executive Vice President, I accepted that trust with humility and an unwavering commitment to amplify the voices of our members across the U.S. and Canada. Today, I remain guided by the belief that through unity, we can create lasting change.
Courage and Clarity
These past three years have tested and strengthened our movement. We’ve taken a stand against workplace harassment and advanced gender equity through real, systemic change, not just in policy, but in culture. I’ve seen women across our Union step into leadership and organizing roles with courage and clarity. It’s a sign that our movement is evolving, and stronger for it.
Mental health has also finally begun to receive the attention it deserves under International President Costa’s leadership. As frontline workers, especially during and after the pandemic, our members have carried the emotional weight of their service. We’ve made mental health support a priority, not a privilege, and that progress must continue.
Solidarity Across Borders and In Our Future
In both the U.S. and Canada, our members are facing the same challenges, including privatization, automation, and political volatility, but also the same opportunities to build solidarity. In Canada, our members are on the front lines of major political fights, pushing back against austerity and demanding investment in public transit that serves everyone. Their courage has inspired campaigns across borders.
Technology also continues to change how transit systems operate, but we’ve refused to let it change who holds the power. We’ve fought for labor’s voice in decisions about microtransit, AI, and automation. This new era must mean more than survival. It must mean shared control and prosperity.
Our World Is Changing
Our world is changing. We’re in a time where our decisions will impact history. Which side will you be on? The choices we make today, how we respond to challenges, how fiercely we protect each other, and how boldly we advocate for justice, will echo for generations.
At this crossroads, complacency is not an option. Each act of solidarity, every step toward fairness and dignity, sends a powerful message that we refuse to be bystanders. It’s about recognizing that the movement we build is not only for ourselves, but for future workers who will look back and see moments of courage.
We Move North America
Solidarity has been our compass. In every fight, every contract campaign, every organizing drive, we’ve leaned on each other and lifted each other up. It’s how we got here as the working class, through unity, struggle, and hope.
As we look ahead, I feel nothing but pride. We’ve come a long way, and we’re not done. When the next chapter of our story is written, let it show that we did not waver. Together, we will continue to shape a hopeful path forward for all workers and families who rely on transit not just to get somewhere, but to build a better life.