Unity Without Borders – 2025 ATU CAN-AM Conference
Over three dynamic days, more than 250 transit union leaders from across North America gathered in Orlando, FL, for the 2025 ATU CAN-AM Conference—one of the largest conferences in our history. From confronting legislative threats to strengthening cross-border solidarity, the conference highlighted the movement’s unwavering dedication to protecting and uplifting transit workers across the U.S. and Canada.
Day One: Facing Challenges, Building Strength
The conference opened with powerful words from International President John Costa, who welcomed members with a rallying cry against the increasing wave of anti-union legislation, particularly in Florida, where laws like SB 256 threaten the survival of unions.
“These Locals are fighting for their lives, for their very survival, every single day,” said Costa, emphasizing that the struggle of one Local is the struggle of all. Florida Locals were recognized for their relentless resistance and resilience, setting the tone for the rest of the conference.
A crucial session on microtransit addressed the growing impact of on-demand transit services. ATU leaders
were trained to negotiate better contracts and bring new workers into our Union, reinforcing the ATU’s commitment to adapting and organizing in a rapidly evolving transit landscape.
Day Two: Cross-Border Solidarity and Mental Health
The second day spotlighted the close relationship between ATU members in the U.S. and Canada. ATU Canada President John Di Nino emphasized the deep, shared history and future of Locals across the border. Costa echoed the message: “Our strength lies not just in our individual Locals, but in our unity.”
Mental health also took center stage. Our partners from FHE Health led a session that recognized the unique emotional and psychological stresses faced by transit workers. The session opened the floor to raw, honest testimonies from members, reinforcing the ATU’s commitment to mental health as a pillar of worker support and strength.
Day Three: A Movement United and Energized
The final day concluded with renewed energy and a shared sense of mission. “Our fight is international, and so is our solidarity,” Costa affirmed.
Elections were held to install new CAN-AM officers, including President Tommy Mason (Local 726-Staten Island, NY), Vice President Marvin Alfred (Local 113-Toronto, ON), Financial Secretary Mario Azzopardi (Local 113-Toronto, ON), Recording Secretary Billy Berardino (Boston Carmen’s Local 589), Canadian, and American Executive Board Members. The Conference also honored retired Chair Emeritus Danny Cassella forthe incredible work he’s done on behalf of the conference, his Local 726-Staten Island, all of us at the ATU and the entire labor movement.
A Stronger Tomorrow
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 and Di Nino 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, and Mark Henry.