International President John Costa was in Mystic, Connecticut attending the ATU New England Joint Conference Board

NEJC Chair and Boston Carmen's Local 589 President/Business Agent Jim Evers opened the event with a moment of silence, honoring our members who tragically lost their lives in the line of duty, Local 587-Seattle, WA, bus operator Shawn Yim and Local 732-Atlanta, GA, bus operator Leroy Ramos.

International President John Costa thanked the attendees for their leadership and the discussed the challenges our Union faces in the new year. "We're going to see a lot of fights in the year ahead," said Costa. "That's why these Conference Boards and trainings are critical. The epidemic of attacks on our members and riders is growing and we continue our push for better safety measures and a new bus redesign to better protect our members on the job. The growing trend of micro-transit and AV technology impacts our jobs. I know our Union is strong and as leaders you will advocate for our members and riders.

Costa also spoke about the devastating California wildfires that destroyed the homes of our members, reminding attendees of the importance of our solidarity and support for them by contributing to the ATU Disaster Relief Fund.

This meeting exemplifies the strength of the ATU, as leaders come together to discuss the challenges faced by transit workers and chart a course toward a stronger, ensuring a brighter future for all.