Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 757 is forming new caucuses for Black, Latino, LGBTQ+, and women members.
ATU Local 757 represents more than 5,400 bus drivers, mechanics, and other workers at public transit agencies and school districts in Oregon and Southwest Washington.
Local 757 Vice President Henry Beasley said the caucuses were started after he and 757 President Bruce Hansen took office last July. The caucuses are a space for people to talk about problems they encounter on a human level and a business level, like on-the-job bathroom access and healthcare coverage, Beasley said.
The ATU International Pride Caucus approved the Local 757 Pride Caucus’ bylaws in September. It first met in August and is planning monthly meetings on the second Saturday of each month.
The Women’s Caucus held its first meeting in September.
The Black Caucus restarted in January after a period of dormancy and is meeting monthly, though dates vary.
Next up is a Latino Caucus, which the union is aiming to get going before the end of the year.
