Last month, the California Labor Federation honored Teamsters Local 856 with an award for the Local’s “Extraordinary Organizing Victories” at its Biennial Convention held in Oakland. Over the last several years, Local 856 has helped more than 3,300 workers in both the private and public sector become Teamsters to gain respect at work and a voice at the bargaining table.
“Being recognized by California Labor Federation is a result of our Local’s commitment to organizing,” said Teamsters 856 Secretary-Treasurer Peter Finn. “Most importantly though, it is through organizing that we build power and increase strength for all Local 856 members,” he said.
The Biennial Convention, held every two years, and brings together delegates from unions across the state to elect the California Labor Federation’s leadership and decide on political endorsements.
Also at the convention, Teamsters 856 Member Pierre King represented 856 at a town hall with labor-endorsed U.S. Senate Candidate Kamala Harris. King was able to speak with Harris, who is the current State Attorney General, about the how skyrocketing housing costs are outpacing wages, making it difficult for workers to stay local. King works at the non-profit Edgewood Center for Children and Families, one of the many new groups that have become Local 856 members in the last two years.
“It was truly an honor and I’m extremely blessed for this opportunity,” said King of his interaction with Harris.