AFL-CIO and Enlace Enter Into New Partnership

Partnership Aims to Improve Conditions for Low Wage Workers in the US and Mexico

(Press Release, Washington, April 17) - - The AFL-CIO and Enlace, a network of US and Mexico-based worker rights groups, have entered into an important new partnership agreement to promote and advance social and economic justice in both nations. 

Enlace, which means “link” in Spanish, is a network of 21 worker centers, unions and organizing groups in the U.S. and in Mexico representing approximately 300,000 low wage workers.  The network uses an integrated approach to organizing, which involves creating unique campaign strategies while developing systems that strengthen organizations internally.  Enlace and the AFL-CIO share a common goal: building the base of low-wage workers to bring balance to the struggle between the rich and working poor. 

The new partnership agreement is dedicated to strengthening the ability of the AFL-CIO and Enlace to work together to promote and enforce workplace rights.  Initially, the initiative will focus on three general areas:  international campaigns; education and training; and building bridges among worker centers and unions.  Binational work, especially strengthening solidarity among worker advocates in the United States and in Mexico, is a unique element of this partnership. 

“We look forward to working together to curb global corporate abuse of workers and their families,” said AFL-CIO President John Sweeney.

This partnership agreement is the result of an AFL-CIO Executive Council resolution, which provides a mechanism for establishing formal ties between AFL-CIO local bodies and worker centers and their networks.  The AFL-CIO has entered into similar agreements with the National Day Laborer Organizing Network and Interfaith Worker Justice. 

The agreement does not require that Enlace members become union members of a union, but provides an organized venue for joint binational work. 

Media Contact: Lauren Mendoza (202) 637-5018