September 29, 2005
Hundreds of working people from around the country – members of unions that together represent nearly six million workers – came together to create a new labor federation dedicated to ensuring that hard work is once again valued in the US and around the world. Change to Win, comprised of UNITE HERE and six other unions, will be a lean organization focusing more than 75% of its budget on organizing working people.
Over the course of its day-long founding convention, delegates ratified a constitution and structure, and passed resolutions on organizing, diversity, and politics. Anna Burger was officially designated as chair of the new federation, the first time in American history that a woman has headed a labor federation. Edgar Romney, Executive Vice President of UNITE HERE and Manager of NY Metropolitan Area Joint Board, was chosen as the secretary-treasurer of the federation, the first time an African-American has headed an American labor federation. In addition, workers shared firsthand their struggles to ensure that their jobs pay enough to support a family, offer quality, affordable health care, and a retirement with dignity.
"Today is a day the labor movement can be proud of,” stated Edgar Romney. "We are embarking on a journey together toward a new era, where workers are valued and the economy works for everyone. And for the first time ever, the movement is being led by a woman. We are committed to diversity throughout our ranks and there is no better place to start than the top.” Prior to leaving the convention, all of the delegates signed a Change to Win pledge, which summarized the organizing goals of the new federation, including agreeing "to hold each other accountable to our common objective of uniting workers into unions and restoring the American Dream.”
For media inquiries, contact Amanda Cooper, 212-265-7000.
