New York City

new york city

about us

Founded in 1973, the LCLAA New York City Chapter is a proud, member-led organization of the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA). Our Chapter is made up of dedicated union members, officers, community activists, affiliates, and retirees united by a shared commitment to justice and equality.

We empower our members by educating them on issues that affect the Latino community and providing opportunities to take meaningful action. Through strategic advocacy, civic engagement, and organizing, we work to strengthen workers’ rights, improve conditions for our families and communities, and encourage active participation in the political process — all while creating our rich culture and heritage.

The NYC LCLAA Chapter stands in unwavering solidarity with our fellow unions, communities, and partners organizations, continuing the fight for fairness, dignity, and equity for all.

Leadership

Executive Board

President: Pedro A. Cardi Jr., Local 210 International Brotherhood of Teamsters.

Executive Vice President: Servia Silva, Local 2 UFT NYSUT AFT.

1st Vice President: Carla Verdecias, 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East.

2nd Vice President: Carmen Flores, AFCME DC 37.

3rd Vice President: Susan Perez, Local 2 UFT NYSUT AFT.

Treasurer: Aurora Romero, Workers United.

Recording Secretary: Jennie Encalda-Malinowski, Laborers’ Local 1010 LECET, LiUNA.

Board Members:

Gladys Brono, 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East.

Santos Crespo, NYC LCLAA President Emeritus & AFSCME 37 Retiree Association.

Jason Delgado, Laborers’ Local 79 LiUNA

Charles Garcia, Local 1180 CWA.

Angel Martinez, Local 812 International Brotherhood of Teamsters.

Jesse Mendoza, TWU Local 100.

Doris Murphy, SEIU Local 371.

Santos Rodriguez, Building and Construction Trades Council of Greater New York.

Gary Rosario, TWU Local 100.

Hector Ruiz Jr. Local 2 UFT NYSUT AFT.

Samuel Sierra, 1199 SEIU United Healthcare Workers.

Jeanette Taveras, Teamster’s Local 237.

accomplishment

For decades, NYC LCLAA has consistently answered the call of duty, standing ready to serve when our communities needed it most. Without hesitation, the chapter has confronted the challenges faced by Latinos during some of the most difficult times, always standing shoulder to shoulder with its members and allies.

Puerto Rico Relief Efforts

When many Puerto Ricans on the mainland were still awaiting FEMA assistance after Hurricane Maria (2017), NYC LCLAA took action. In 2021, the chapter established the NYC LCLAA Puerto Rico Relief Foundation to help rebuild ten homes devastated by the hurricane.
Through this initiative, NYC LCLAA mobilized resources by seeking donations and in-kind contributions from unions, legislators, activists, community members, and individual donors — exemplifying true solidarity and compassion.
Helping the people of Puerto Rico regain their homes.

Advocacy and Legislative Engagement

As an active sponsor of the SOMOS, Inc. Legislative Conference, NYC LCLAA proudly co-hosts the Labor Breakfast during both the Albany and Puerto Rico conferences.
The chapter also participates in legislative workshops and discussions addressing policies that impact the Latino community, continuously supporting resolutions and initiatives that protect workers’ rights and promote social and economic justice.

Education and Empowerment

NYC LCLAA has partnered with Cornell University and SUNY Empire State College to offer free Labor Studies courses to members in good standing. These programs provide valuable certificates and college credits, empowering members to strengthen their knowledge, leadership, and influence within the labor movement.