As we continue to celebrate Women’s History Month, Latoya Mathis, a union and servicing representative for the United Food and Commercial Workers Local 75 in Dayton, Ohio, joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to talk about how the union supported her and allowed her to graduate college. She also talked about her work to help empower young women in the union and guide them toward success.
Mathis started working at 15 years old as a cashier at a Kroger grocery store in the Dayton area. After turning 18, she was trained to become an Assistant Customer Service Manager. She spent her first 17 years working with Kroger as a member of UFCW Local 75, but never really got involved with the union. In 2017, she started working with her Local as a union steward and was able to utilize their educational program, which allowed her to be the first woman in her family to graduate from college at no cost.
Without the union's support, Mathis believes her success would not have been possible. As a black woman who started working young, if the union hadn’t supported her, she would not have become a college graduate and a union leader. The mentorship she received from the female leaders at both the International and Local levels guided Mathis. She now helps younger women in her Local handle the adversity that females face.
Part of Mathis’ work to lead and develop young women in the UFCW is with the Women’s Network. For many young women in her Local, she’s the first female union representative they have met. Mathis talked about her efforts to empower young women and ensure they succeed with the union, including several workshops and seminars focused on topics that are unique to women. Next up for Mathis will be attending the 15th Biennial UFCW Women’s Network Convention in Costa Mesa, Calif. in May, where she is excited for the potential networking opportunities.
Listen to the show above to hear more about Mathis’ journey with UFCW Local 75.
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