For Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month this year, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights in the United States. Today's profile is Mark Masaoka of the International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America (UAW).
Mark Masaoka cut his union teeth on the shop floor at Ford-Pico Rivera, UAW Local 923, and GM Van Nuys, UAW Local 645, where he was elected to the executive board. Masaoka helped found APALA in 1992. Now retired, he is active in Nikkei Progressives, a Japanese American community group. He reconnected with UAW colleagues during the recent strike at Chrysler-parent Stellantis and helps advise California Rideshare Drivers United.