From Protest to Power A. Phillip Randolph Detroit - Downriver inspires the community

The "Protest to Power!" convention, held by the Detroit Downriver A. Philip Randolph Chapter, focused on labor activism and the importance of political engagement, particularly ahead of upcoming elections. Celebrating 60 years of labor union activism, the event emphasized the power of protest, community, and voting to drive social and political change.

Morning: A Promising Start

The event began with smooth registration and an inspiring welcoming by Andre Washington, encouraging attendees to embrace challenges like Dorothy from *The Wizard of Oz*. "We have it within us," he said, "All you have to do is be like Dorthy and stand up and click your heels." Echoing the exercise of voting and it ease to effect change.

Speakers like Michigan AFL-CIO President Ron Bieber and Jerry King, Michigan State/Metro-Detroit President underscored the importance of labor rights and voting. "Thank all of you for your activism," said Bieber. He has devoted his entire career fighting for working families, witnessing the downs and ups. Accrediting the up moments because of political action, "maybe one of the biggest reasons was because of our collective political actions and our strength." Mr. King gave the audience some things to think about stating, "We often think about the top ticket, but if we don't build up to bottom ticket." Reflecting the low turnout for smaller elections, that usually leads to top ticket candidates you may not agree with. "When you leave here today, we want you to be vocalized to understand what the need is out there," said King. Key messages encouraged vigilance, education, and action.

Midday: Exploration and Networking

Workshops like "Breaking the Glass Ceiling" provided leadership techniques for women, highlighting mentorship and effective communication.

A networking lunch offered opportunities to connect with community groups and labor organizations. Lunch featured speaker Kevin Tolbert was just the reminder of encouragement and inspiration for work to do, "We got to make sure that we move the needle for the candidates that are going to help people that look like us and care about people," said Tolbert, Chairman 12th District DEMS.

Afternoon: Deep Dives and Special Events

The exhibit hall featured interactive booths and union-supported vendors. The host location, Somerset Inn is a union hotel. Sessions like "Keep It Real University" taught participants how to navigate misinformation on social media, while Bayard Rustin Award honored Miguel Foster of UAW for his contributions to labor activism. "I appreciate the award, I appreciate the recognition, but more than anything, I appreciate you all, the work that we do, and I thank you for the bottom of my heart," said Foster. The event had a strong presence of United Auto Workers members, who found it motivational and informative.

Fred Redmond, AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer, closed the day with a powerful keynote emphasizing the role of labor workers in shaping democracy and the upcoming elections. "I believe in the power of the union and that all workers deserve political and social freedom," said Redmond, "I know we will continue to fight for us and our democracy."

Evening: Wrapping Up on a High Note

The afternoon allowed time for a third workshop of choice. Other workshops were History of A.P.R.I., Local power/ local politics, Bridging the Generational Gap, Get out the Vote, and Get Lit on Politics. A networking reception wrapped up the event, allowing attendees to reflect on the importance of collective action and worker power in a social gathering after Friday.

The convention highlighted the critical role unions play in advocating for worker rights and economic progress. Attendees were encouraged to participate in the political process, highlighting the importance of local elections and community involvement. "When working people stand together, there is nothing, absolutely nothing that can stand in our way," said Redmond. The event fostered unity, strategy, and inspiration for future activism.