Arlene Holt Baker, former Executive Vice President of the AFL-CIO, joined America’s Work Force Union Podcast and reminisced about her experiences in organized labor.
She recalled being in attendance at Hotel Texas in Fort Worth to hear President John F. Kennedy speak. It was the last public address Kennedy made prior to his assassination. The President inspired her to want more, not just for her but for those like her.
Holt Baker discussed her pioneering career, which began as an organizer with the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) in Los Angeles. She became the first African American to be elected as an officer in the Democratic Party. Later in her career, Holt Baker filled out the remainder of a term held by AFL-CIO Executive Vice President Linda Chavez-Thompson, who retired. This made her the first African American woman to hold the title of AFL-CIO Executive Vice President.
Holt Baker said she is impressed by the organizing ability of the younger generations and the AFL-CIO’s Organizing Institute. While overall membership numbers have declined, organized labor victories at Starbucks, Apple and Amazon provide hope for growth, she explained. The AFL-CIO’s Organizing Institute is learning from these victories, and will continue to drive organized labor into the future, she said.
Listen to the entire episode to learn more about these topics.