Public Employee Press

DC 37 celebrates
Latino Heritage

In keeping with tradition, DC 37 locals celebrated Latino Heritage Month during October in grand style with colorful cultural presentations and important political messages.

Local 420’s celebration Oct. 7 featured Grupo Bombazo, which played traditional bomba and plena music from Puerto Rico. City Council member Margarita Lopez reminded members of the importance of voting to build union and Latino political power.

“DC 37 is a mighty union built by and for a diverse and hardworking group of New Yorkers. Our local is very proud of the contributions of our Latino members,” said Local 983 President Mark Rosenthal on Oct. 8, before making way for the swinging sounds of the Willie Villegas band.

“Working together to empower the Latino vote,” was the theme of Local 1549’s celebration Oct. 15. “For us as city employees, the 2005 mayoral election is crucial. The outcome will have a direct impact on our employment, wages and benefits,” said Local President Eddie Rodríguez.

Fernando Ferrer, a possible mayoral candidate, was the keynote speaker and also addressed participants at the grand finale on Oct. 22.

Ferrer paid tribute to Local 1549 member Ann Gaddy, who recently passed away. “She fought hard for all that she needed to fight for,” said the former Bronx Borough President. He credits Gaddy with giving him some sound political advice. “Not only was she a shop steward for Local 1549,” he said, “she was a shop steward for everyone.”

Anniversary milestone
With Latino Heritage Committee Chair Magda DeJesus of Local 1219 presiding, the legendary salsa band Tipica 73 — led by pianist Sonny Bravo and violinist Alfredo de la Fé — packed the dance floor and closed out the grand finale on Oct. 22.

The union’s 20th Puerto Rican Heritage celebration culminated in a gala event on Nov. 19. “The Puerto Rican community has enriched our city with their culture and lively spirit for over 100 years and continues to do so,” said DC 37 Executive Director Lillian Roberts, to start the evening. The historic milestone was celebrated with the pulsating sounds of Frankie Morales and his Mambo Time Orchestra. “That we have several Hispanic and Puerto Rican members leading locals is something we can all be proud of,” said Local 372 Vice President Santos Crespo.

– Alfredo Alvarado