Union president urges U.S. to halt deportation of workers born in Philadelphia.

James A. Williams Jr., a Philadelphia native and president of the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades, has embarked on a nationwide tour aimed at fostering solidarity among union members amidst heightened scrutiny and deportation efforts targeting immigrant workers. Williams is particularly vocal regarding the federal government’s decision to revoke legal protections for workers, many of whom are immigrants or descendants of immigrants.

As an influential figure within the labor movement, Williams serves not only as the president of a 140,000-member union but also as vice president of the AFL-CIO, the central federation of unions in the United States. In his recent address prior to Labor Day, he highlighted that the labor landscape has become increasingly complex, particularly as immigrant workers face new challenges in securing stable employment.

Williams, himself a seasoned glazier and member of Local 252 in Philadelphia, drew on familial ties that run deep within the labor community. His father previously led the local union and headed the international organization, emphasizing the legacy and commitment to advancing workers’ rights. He pointed out that while construction work in Philadelphia has shown improvement, there are significant discrepancies in job availability across the country. He notes that while the Philadelphia area is experiencing growth, many other regions report stagnation in job opportunities.

The discourse surrounding immigration policy is a central concern for Williams and the broader labor community. He advocates for a comprehensive approach to immigration that would facilitate a humane reception for workers while providing pathways to citizenship. Historically, the construction industry has relied on waves of immigrants, forming a diverse workforce that is essential for its sustainability. Williams stated that there needs to be a proactive immigration policy that acknowledges the vital contributions of immigrant workers.

Engagement with other unions is also a key aspect of Williams’ strategy. He collaborates with various labor organizations to address shared challenges stemming from political divides and to advocate for policy reforms that benefit workers across sectors. Despite a shared need for solutions, he notes that there is often a disconnect in Congress, where bipartisan dialogue on immigration reform appears limited.

The complexities of current immigration policies have not only strained relationships within the labor community but also highlighted the pressing concern regarding the future workforce. With a significant number of workers nearing retirement age, there is an urgent need to cultivate new talent in the industry. Williams stresses that overcoming political divisiveness is critical to ensuring that the labor market remains robust and inclusive.

In reflecting on the past, Williams pointed out that previous administrations have attempted to create pathways for immigrants, but the current political climate often undermines those efforts. He emphasized the need for a commitment to maintaining the workforce that’s vital for the nation’s economy. As the union continues to adapt to these changes, the challenge remains to unite members around the common goal of preserving labor rights and advancing comprehensive immigration reform for a diverse workforce.

The issues confronting immigrant workers and the construction industry are complex and multifaceted, and as Williams continues to advocate for his constituents, the determination to foster inclusivity and fairness remains paramount.