Guadalupe Y. (SF)
“My name is Guadalupe. I joined TUWU because I wanted to know more about the organization to help address the problems faced by workers in San Francisco. I invite workers to participate in a worker center like TUWU so that they can support each other to address workplace issues
Don’t be afraid of retaliation. You are not alone. Being part of a worker center is important so you learn about your rights and have peers willing to support you. We have the right to uplift our voices, be respected, and demand for our rights.”
Roger M. (SF)
“My name is Roger. I used to watch workers marching on the street and wondered, how do I become a part of a unified worker formation? I got a call from a TUWU organizer who shared information about the worker center. I was intrigued about worker rights, so I got involved to learn more and meet workers. Since that call, I have participated in the May Day and International Workers’ Day marches in San Francisco.
As an active TUWU member, I have met workers from various worker centers, learned about many rights and laws, and learned how to advocate for myself and my peers. Our communities often accept injustice as a part of life, believing there is no solution. As a TUWU member, I learned that we can address issues when we are organized and have each other.
I encourage workers to join our worker center! There is much to learn about your rights, build unity, and respect each other.“
Maria S. (OAK)
“My name is Maria. For many years, I worked as a domestic worker and also provided at-home care for people with disabilities
I first discovered TUWU when an organizer was doing outreach on the bus. She told me that TUWU is a worker center. I am a member of multiple community organizations and hearing about a worker center was new. I was curious to learn more and even invited her for some cookies. I attended an orientation to familiarize myself more with the worker center. I learned the responsibilities I would hold as a member of my organization and to other workers. After that orientation, I decided to become a member.
I like all the experiences I’ve had with TUWU. What I liked most from the beginning is the way in which the center focuses on marginalized workers and that we all deserve the same rights. I also learned and understood why building worker power and uniting ourselves as workers is important to make material changes in our lives and address exploitation collectively. Since then, I have been active at events in solidarity with workers and the community fighting for justice locally and abroad.
My message to workers is: let’s leave the house, the television for an hour to build organization with our peers. Alone, we may not have the disproportionate power of corporations, but together, we have people’s power, collective voices, and collective action. That is enough. As long as there is unity, voice, and action, we will succeed.”
Maria P. (OAK)
“My name is Maria. I reached out and called TUWU for a referral and then I met with an organizer in Fruitvale Plaza.
I saw the opportunity to learn about my labor rights and how to make those rights met at work.
What I like most about TUWU are the general member monthly meetings, where you can express yourself and stay up to date with TUWU’s work. I loved participating in TUWU’s yearly political educational workshop known as the Dignity School.
I tell workers to not stay silent. At the end of the tunnel there is light and hope to get out of our problems.”