This year the international community tried to put a strong emphasis on the work of Dr. King by drawing a parallel to the work and the work of the TWU. They reminded you that Dr. King took very strategic and well planned non violent actions to be successful against a society and the government that didn’t want change.
MLK – Miami, 2026
We had an open dialogue about the Selma to Montgomery marches of 1965. Understanding this was a series of marches for Black voting rights that started with Bloody Sunday on March 7, 1965.
We discussed how he planned the marches but also how he drew in supporters that were willing to sacrifice their lives for an injustice to the minority. This action eventually forced the passage of the 1965 Voting Rights Act.
On Saturday we did a community service project for the Chapman Partnership of Miami. The organization works with the homeless community from street to independent living for many demographics in Florida. You can get more information at www.chapmanpartnership.org
We donated and made over 200 packages of essential items for their residents. The TWU International also made a five thousand dollar donation to the organization. This was a very important part of the observance weekend due to the fact that we consider the MLK holiday as a give back time for our community.
On Sunday we were provided with a church service that explained that the work that we do as union leaders, helping our union members have better lives and working conditions is similar to the work of Jesus helping the poor and forgotten children of our society. We must continue to do the right thing for all members and sometimes it won’t be easy.
On Monday we wrapped the holiday up by participating in the Miami MLK Parade. This event is very well attended by the city and community. It also runs a two mile course that takes more than three hours to complete.
Yes, we were tired.
Tracy Hardin
Chairman of the Affirmative Action / Human Rights Committee
Local 514 Executive Board Member at Large
