On September 5, 2024, Houston’s Ninth Congressional District took center stage in the ongoing fight for workers' rights as Congressman Al Green hosted Acting Secretary of Labor Julie A. Su. The breakfast assembly brought together regional labor leaders and provided a comprehensive update on critical legislative actions, union issues, and the Biden administration’s pro-worker policies aimed at improving the lives of American workers.

 Acting Secretary of Labor Julie A. Su
 SHAWN T. MOORE  

The event underscored the vital role unions play in securing fair wages, benefits, and safe working conditions. Acting Secretary Julie Su, a staunch advocate for labor rights, emphasized the administration's unwavering commitment to empowering workers. "I am proud to join Congressman Green in Houston as we continue to fight for every worker in this country," Su remarked. "As the most pro-worker, pro-union administration in history, we are committed to enforcing laws that protect workers’ rights to organize, ensuring their voices are heard at the bargaining table, and creating pathways for good-paying jobs."

Congressman Al Green echoed these sentiments, stressing the significance of Labor Day as a time to reflect on the achievements of unions and their critical role in shaping the U.S. workforce. “It’s an honor to have Acting Secretary Julie Su join us. Labor unions have been instrumental in building a stronger America, and the Biden-Harris administration’s bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act has created thousands of new, union-protected jobs,” Congressman Green stated. “In Texas alone, $153.2 billion in private sector investment alongside $34.2 billion in public funds has poured into clean energy, infrastructure, and manufacturing—creating a wealth of opportunities for our workforce.”

The program featured a robust discussion on the importance of unions in Texas and across the nation. Congressman Green highlighted the administration’s pro-labor stance, including ongoing efforts to fortify job security and advocate for equitable employment practices that benefit all Americans, particularly those in historically underserved communities.

The event concluded with a joint press conference, streamed live on Facebook, where Congressman Green and Secretary Su reaffirmed their dedication to supporting labor unions and fostering economic opportunities for all Texans. 

This gathering serves as a reminder of the progress made, while renewing the call to champion workers’ rights in every industry. Labor unions continue to power the American economy, driving growth and enhancing the quality of life for millions of families across the nation.

For more info, visit algreen.house.gov and dol.gov