We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who joined us at LIC Beer Project on January 27 for our panel discussion, “Hot Labor Year: Stories from the Strikes.” Your presence and engagement made the event truly special, and we’re grateful for your support in amplifying the voices of workers and organizers, and hopefully learned some new tactics to start your own organizing journey!

A big thank you to our event sponsors whose made this gathering possible: 

Brandworkers, IWW NYC, Anakbayan Manhattan, MACC, DSA Labor Branch, Urban Justice Center, Street Vendors Project, Laundry Workers Center, Emergency Work Place Organizing Committee (EWOC) , North New Jersey DSA (NNJ DSA), and the Brandworkers Staff Union (BWSU).

The panel featured representatives from four incredible organizing campaigns: Temple University Graduate Student Association(TUGSA), Student Workers of Columbia University(SWC), and the Asociación de Vendedores Ambulantes (AVA). Each speaker shared their unique experiences before, during, and after a strike, offering invaluable insights into the challenges and triumphs of organizing efforts.

Josh Stern from TUGSA recounted the arduous but ultimately victorious 42-day strike at Temple University, where graduate workers fought for fair wages and improved working conditions. Aaron Kidane, a union steward with Student Workers of Columbia, shared the grassroots-driven campaign that led to significant concessions from Columbia University. And Rosario Troncoso, president of AVA, highlighted the resilience of street vendors in the face of adversity, culminating in a successful negotiation with the city after months of organizing. You can check out the full panel here. 

We also want to express our appreciation to all the volunteers who helped organize and promote the event. Your dedication to worker empowerment and education is truly inspiring.

As we reflect on the stories shared during the panel, we’re reminded of the importance of solidarity and collective action in the fight for justice in the workplace. If you were unable to attend the panel or want to revisit the highlights, we’ve compiled a gallery of photos from the event below and a full recording of the panel here.

If you’re interested in getting involved and supporting workers like those featured in our panel, we encourage you to join our volunteer group, El Hormiguero. Together, we can make a difference by fighting for fair treatment and better working conditions for all.

Thank you once again for your support, and we look forward to continuing this important work together!