Standing United: New England Conference Board Brings Locals Together
In a powerful display of solidarity, ATU International President John Costa went from ATU Western States meeting in Spokane, WA, to Cape Cod, MA, to attend the New England Joint Conference Board meeting. Costa’s cross-country trip underscored our Union’s unwavering commitment to our members, no matter the distance. Costa’s presence energized the event, sending a clear message: ATU leadership stands shoulder to shoulder with frontline transit workers from coast to coast.
A Regional Gathering with International Impact
Locals from every corner of New England, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont, came together, along with delegations from Toronto and New York. This diverse group of members gathered to tackle the urgent issues facing transit workers. From wage and benefit fights to health and safety concerns, the conversation centered around defending workers’ rights and advancing the future of public transit.
A Message of Strength from International President Costa
Costa delivered stirring remarks that echoed the spirit of unity in the room. “From contract fights to funding battles, safety concerns to organizing wins,” Costa said, “our Union’s commitment to protecting workers’ rights and strengthening public transit is unwavering.”
He emphasized that when ATU members come together across Locals, regions, and borders, they become a force that cannot be ignored. “This isn’t just a Union—we’re a movement,” Costa declared. “Keep up the fight and thank you for the sacrifices you make every day to advance the ATU on the East Coast.”
Leadership in Action
An impressive delegation of Union leadership attended the meeting, including International Executive Vice President Yvette Trujillo and International Secretary-Treasurer Ken Kirk. Also in attendance were International Vice Presidents Stephen MacDougall, Jacques Chapman, and Mark Henry, each representing Locals throughout New England. Their collective presence demonstrated the International’s commitment to working hand in hand with Local leaders and our members.
The meeting was chaired by Jimmy Evers of Boston’s Carmen Union Local 589. Evers highlighted the importance of continued collaboration across state lines and reinforced the need to stay proactive in the face of legislative and employer challenges.
A Coast-to-Coast Commitment
The New England Joint Conference Board meeting was a reaffirmation of the power of unity. As the transit industry continues to evolve, ATU members across the region are facing that future together, stronger and more connected than ever.
With leaders like Costa at the helm, and Locals uniting to face common struggles, the ATU is poised not only to meet the moment but to shape it.