Laborers' International Union of North America

The Laborers' International Union of North America (LIUNA) is a prominent nonprofit labor union in the United States and Canada. As of 2017, it had approximately 500,000 members, with about 80,000 residing in Canada[1]. The union's history and evolution are deeply intertwined with the broader labor movement in North America.

History

Early Beginnings

LIUNA's origins trace back to the early 19th century when local construction unions began forming across the United States. However, the pivotal moment came in March 1903, when Samuel Gompers, then president of the American Federation of Labor (AFL), called for a convention to unite these local unions. This led to the founding of the International Hod Carriers and Building Laborers' Union on April 13, 1903, in Washington, D.C.[1][2][3]. The first convention was attended by 25 delegates representing 23 unions from 17 cities.

The union's early leadership included Herman Lilien, who served as the first General President until 1905. Domenic D'Alessandro, from Boston, became General President in 1908 and led the union for 18 years, facilitating significant growth and jurisdictional victories[3][4].

Name Changes and Expansion

In 1912, the union underwent two name changes, first becoming the International Hod Carriers and Common Laborers of America and later the International Hod Carriers' Building and Common Laborers of America[3][4]. By 1920, the union had grown to include 548 local unions with a membership of 96,143[4].

The union continued to evolve and expand throughout the 20th century, merging with other organizations and growing its membership significantly during World War II[4]. In 1958, it affiliated with the National Association of Post Office Mail Handlers and the Journeyman Stone Cutters Association[4].

Modern Era

In 1965, the union was renamed to its current form, the Laborers' International Union of North America (LIUNA)[5]. This period also saw significant involvement in the Civil Rights Movement, with LIUNA participating in major events like the March on Washington in 1963[5]. The union continued to focus on training, education, and political activism, establishing the Laborers' Political League to influence policy and encourage member participation[1][5].

Throughout the 1970s and beyond, LIUNA has continued to push for better working conditions, training opportunities, and social benefits for its members. The union remains a powerful force in North American labor politics.

Mission and Activities

LIUNA's mission is centered around advocating for the rights and welfare of its members, who work across various sectors including construction, health care, and government services. The union focuses on:

• Training and Education: Providing members with skills training and educational opportunities to enhance career prospects.
• Political Activism: Encouraging member participation in politics through the Laborers' Political League.
• Social Benefits: Advocating for better health, welfare, and pension plans for members.

Governance

The union is currently led by General President Brent Booker, who was appointed in recent years. The governance structure includes various local unions and regional councils that coordinate national policies and initiatives.

References

This article is based on information available as of 2025. Additional details and updates can be found in historical documents and the union's publications.