The Teamsters Human Rights & Diversity Commission takes pride in the strength that is drawn from the diversity within the Union’s ranks. Further, it recognizes that different physical and cultural qualities such as "race, age, color, religion, sex, disabilities, national origin, or gender identity" make individuals unique and deserving of respect. The Commission has been structured as a partnership in diversity by developing the Committee and implementing Task Forces. HRDC will build engagement, accountability, and outreach within all levels to build better lives for all Teamsters.
History:
The Human Rights Commission was established in 1999 to educate and assist Teamster leaders with Human Rights issues. In order to facilitate this effort, the Commission requested that local leaders appoint an HRC Representative in order to serve as a direct link to the members we serve. The Commission, also, is composed of representatives from the LGBTQ+ Caucus, Teamsters Women’s Caucus, Teamsters National Black Caucus, Teamsters Canada, Teamsters for Tomorrow, rank and file members, and advisors. The Caucuses and groups are essential to HRDC as they are formed to help members understand their importance and worth to the Teamsters and inform members of ways to get involved. They, also, assist HRDC with programs and services to fulfill its mission which includes diversity matters, organizing, and political action.
The Diversity Committee was established in 2001, based on the report and recommendations submitted to the 26th International Union Convention. This addressed various issues, including but not limited to how the International Union could enhance and benefit from the involvement and contributions of its members from various cultural, racial, and ethnic backgrounds. Teamsters at the 26th Convention recognized that the unity and strength of our movement can best be secured by encouraging the participation of women, various racial and ethnic groups, LGBTQ+ populations, and people with disabilities in policymaking and leadership roles at all levels of the International Union and its affiliates.
In 2016, at the 29th Convention, it was decided to merge the Human Rights Commission and Diversity Committee into one entity to become an influential entity within the International. HRDC is committed to the development of a union that values and encourages participation of all members at all levels of the union. By merging the two under one umbrella, HRDC can more effectively implement the 29th International Convention Resolution. Which includes: implementing a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion program; building Task Forces to assist in implementing a DEI program; create a multi-year plan with short-, mid-, and long-terms goals.
Services:
The Human Rights and Diversity Commission will provide the following services:
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Support Caucuses, groups, divisions, and conferences in diversity and Equal Employment Opportunity matters
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Provide training, awareness, and information on the following laws and issues affecting our membership in the workplace: Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Americans with Disabilities Act Amended (ADAA), Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), and retaliation.
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Update members on current status of relevant state and federal civil rights policies, legislation, and litigation through an annual newsletter.
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Assist in organizing and political action campaigns, which include hand-billing, letter writing, and rallying in support of its mission.
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Assist Local Unions and Joint Councils, upon request, with compliance monitoring and review of diversity and Equal Employment Opportunity policies of employer’s party to Teamster contracts.
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Participate and promote activities on issues affecting the protection and promotion of Human Rights.
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Assist in recommending and/or commenting on proposed legislation regarding state and federal Civil Rights policies.
The Teamsters Human Rights & Diversity Commission takes pride in the strength that is drawn from the diversity within the Union’s ranks. Further, it recognizes that different physical and cultural qualities such as "race, age, color, religion, sex, disabilities, national origin, or gender identity" make individuals unique and deserving of respect. The Commission has been structured as a partnership in diversity by developing the Committee and implementing Task Forces. HRDC will build engagement, accountability, and outreach within all levels to build better lives for all Teamsters.
Marcus King, Director
(202) 624-8971
(202) 624-7457
