Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service + Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
On Saturday, May 8, the Pima Area Labor Federation (PALF), in partnership with Bright Star and the congregation of Rising Star Baptist Church as well as Jobs with Justice Tucson Chapter, facilitated PALF’s first Labor to Neighbor event. Union members from all of PALF’s affiliates participated in a massive food distribution of more than 36,000 pounds of fresh food. It highlighted the absolute best of labor in southern Arizona. Designated a politician- and law enforcement–free event, members of the community were able to receive support without fear of harassment, with no questions asked. That decision proved vital, as every pound of food found a family in need.
“This was a first for our federation, and we look forward to building on this work. We are forever indebted to the love and solidarity from our union siblings at the Saint Paul Regional Labor Federation, who made this possible. We’re also deeply appreciative of our affiliate, IBEW Local 570, and Gilbert Electric for securing use of the forklift. We’re inspired by every union member who gave their Saturday to support our greater community and hope this is just the beginning for Labor to Neighbor,” said Trish Muir (IBT), chair of the Pima Area Labor Federation.
Ryan Kelly is field director for the Pima Area Labor Federation.