Community Strength is Union Strength

"Strong Union Build Strong Communities" banner is displayed at the 2023 WNY Construction Career Days event for local high school students.

Union and community members rally to save vital USPS services from being moved out of the region.

Buffalo Central Labor Council President Denise Abbott addresses the media during a press conference supporting organized medical residents at the UB School of Medicine. — Buffalo Central Labor Council President Denise Abbott addresses the media during a press conference supporting organized medical residents at the UB Jacobs School of Medicine.

The Western New York Area Labor Federation, AFL-CIO (WNYALF), has long stood as a beacon of solidarity and advocacy in our region. Far from merely serving the interests of union members, the WNYALF has dedicated itself to fostering strong community relationships and championing the well-being of all Western New Yorkers. This commitment to broader community advocacy has not only strengthened the labor movement but has also produced tangible benefits that uplift our entire region.

For decades, the WNYALF has understood that the prosperity of union members is intrinsically linked to the health and vitality of the communities in which they live and work. This understanding has driven the Federation to build lasting partnerships with a diverse array of community organizations, civic groups, and local leaders. These alliances have been crucial in addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by Western New York, from economic instability to environmental concerns.

One of the most significant examples of WNYALF's community-centered approach was the response to the closure of the Huntley Power Plant. Recognizing the profound economic impact this would have on the Town of Tonawanda, the WNYALF did not merely focus on the immediate needs of displaced workers. Instead, it took a holistic approach by forming the Huntley Alliance, which included environmental groups, educational institutions, and local government officials. This coalition successfully lobbied for state support, resulting in a just transition that included workforce retraining programs, financial aid to mitigate lost tax revenue, and investment in renewable energy projects. This comprehensive strategy ensured that the entire community, not just the workers, could navigate the transition more smoothly.

Moreover, the WNYALF has been instrumental in advocating for landmark legislation that benefits the broader community. The passage of the "Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act" (CLCPA) is a testament to the Federation's ability to influence policy that addresses both labor and environmental justice. By ensuring that the CLCPA included measures for a just transition, the WNYALF demonstrated its commitment to sustainable development and the protection of vulnerable communities. This legislative success illustrates how labor and environmental interests can be aligned to produce comprehensive, equitable solutions.

A coalition of union, community, and faith leaders rally for Medicaid equity in the NYS budget to benefit nursing home residents and hospital patients.

Students at Erie 1 BOCES EDGE Academy pose with members of LIUNA Laborers Local 210 as part of the Worker Empowerment Center's pilot labor education program.

Healthcare providers, local residents, and elected officials rally to support the building of a new hospital in rural WNY.

The WNYALF's dedication to community partnerships is also evident in its ongoing efforts to improve public education, healthcare, and social services. The Federation has consistently supported initiatives aimed at increasing funding for public schools, expanding access to affordable healthcare, and safeguarding essential public services. By working with educational advocates, healthcare providers, and social service organizations, the WNYALF has played a pivotal role in securing resources and reforms that benefit all residents of Western New York.

In addition to these large-scale efforts, the WNYALF has a rich history of grassroots activism. From organizing food drives and supporting local charities to participating in neighborhood cleanups and advocating for housing justice, the Federation’s members are deeply embedded in the fabric of our communities. This boots-on-the-ground approach ensures that the WNYALF remains attuned to the needs and aspirations of the people it serves.

The legacy of the WNYALF is one of unity, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to the greater good. As we navigate the challenges of the 21st century, from economic inequality to climate change, the WNYALF’s model of inclusive advocacy will be more crucial than ever. By continuing to build strong community relationships and championing policies that benefit all, the WNYALF will remain a powerful force for positive change in Western New York.

In conclusion, the WNYALF's long history of community partnerships and advocacy is a testament to the enduring power of solidarity. By fighting not just for union members but for the entire community, the WNYALF has shown that when we stand together, we can achieve remarkable progress. This spirit of collective action and mutual support will undoubtedly guide the WNYALF's efforts for generations to come, ensuring a brighter, more equitable future for all of Western New York.

In solidarity,
Peter De Jesús Jr.
President
WNY Area Labor Federation, AFL-CIO