Teamsters Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month

Teamsters everywhere are celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month by recognizing and honoring the contributions made by Hispanics, especially within the labor movement.

The history of the labor movement is tightly wound with Hispanic history and the strides Hispanic leaders have made to bring equality and justice to all people. From fighting for farm workers’ rights decades ago to standing up against prejudice today, Hispanic leaders have created a path of justice for all to follow.

“Every aspect of our union, and our society as a whole, has been positively influenced by our nation’s diverse population,” said Jim Hoffa, Teamsters General President. “Hispanic leaders like Cesar Chavez, Supreme Court Justice Sonya Sotomayor, Labor Secretary Hilda Solis and others, along with the Hispanic population as a whole, continue to shape our country.”

The contributions of Hispanic members to the success of the Teamsters Union are numerous, varied and as old as the union itself. Many Hispanic Teamsters have worked diligently to strengthen working voices and improve working conditions in the food processing, dairy and warehouse industries. Members like Lucio Reyes, Secretary-Treasurer of Local 601 in Stockton, California, have played pivotal roles in securing Teamster strength and power.

Reyes helped to lead the longest strike in Teamster history. During the 14-year campaign, Reyes drew strength and inspiration from past leaders like Chavez. Today, Reyes hopes to carry on a legacy of cooperation, pride and justice.

“We can never forget where we came from,” Reyes said. “We must learn from our past and the contributions made by Hispanic leaders have taught us many important lessons we can carry on into the future.”