Latino union organizers to hold conference

The conference will run from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 15, at the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades, District Council 82, 3205 Country Dr. in Little Canada.

"The labor movement is in constant change," conference organizers say in the flier announcing the event. "It\’s key that labor continues to look for comprehensive ways to educate a growing immigrant workforce.

"This conference is intended to provoke thought, discussion and ideas on educating the organized and the unorganized immigrant workforce."

HOLA is made up of Latino organizers from a number of unions, particularly in the Building Trades. They said the conference would be a first step to greater outreach among immigrant workers.

Speakers at the conference will include union organizers, U.S. Department of Labor official Jose Medina, immigration expert Anna Gomez, elected officials and others. Cost is $20 in advance, $25 at the door. Lunch and refreshments will be included.

To register, mail checks, payable to "MBCOT" to Laborers District Council, 81 E. Little Canada Road, St. Paul, MN 55117. For more information, contact Alejandro Garcia, Laborers District Council, 612-328-7105.