Building Union Power Training

Leaders from across DC16 recently came together to participate in the Building Union Power leadership training led by Jimmy Williams Jr., president of the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades. Centered around IUPAT’s value statement — “One Union, One Family, One Fight” — the training focused on strengthening solidarity, reconnecting with our purpose, and empowering leaders to build a stronger union from the inside out.

Throughout the training, DC16 Executive Board Members and Delegates engaged in meaningful discussions about what it truly means to be part of a union. Several of our own brothers and sisters shared personal reflections about the pride, responsibility, and sense of family that comes with union membership. Their stories highlighted a powerful truth: when we stand together and support one another, we strengthen not only our union, but also the communities we serve.

Participants also took part in a collaborative exercise where three groups were asked to reflect on and write down words that define the values behind One Union, One Family, One Fight. The activity sparked thoughtful conversations about unity, trust, accountability, solidarity, and the importance of working toward shared goals. It was a reminder that our strength comes from the collective commitment of every member.

The training also explored the history of the labor movement and the challenges unions face today. Over the past 80 years, union membership in the United States has declined significantly. Understanding this history is critical because it reminds us that the power of unions has always come from active and engaged members. When members are informed, connected, and committed, unions grow stronger.

A key takeaway from the training was the importance of engaging with our members, educating them, and rebuilding union power together. Leadership alone cannot build a strong union — it requires participation from every member. By educating our members about their rights, the value of union solidarity, and the role they play in shaping the future of our organization, we create a more informed and empowered membership.

Building union power means committing to our values, living those values every day, and sharing them with others. It means having real conversations with members, listening to their concerns, and ensuring they understand that their voice matters. When members feel connected to their union and understand the impact they can make, they become the driving force behind meaningful change.

The Building Union Power training reinforced an important message: our strength lies in unity. By providing each other with the knowledge, skills, and motivation to engage actively in our union’s work, we can continue to grow stronger together.

At DC16, we remain committed to investing in leadership development and member education so we can continue building a union that is united, engaged, and ready to fight for the future of our trades.

One Union. One Family. One Fight. ✊

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