Worker Center Innovation in Upstate New York 

On October 25th, in Syracuse, New York, more than 8 upstate organizations gathered for an event to strategize on building long-term worker power in their region. Representing a variety of sectors—including farm workers, factory laborers, and youth workers—these organizations addressed unique challenges faced by immigrant communities and the pressing need to respond to growing threats and pressures.

Despite often working in isolated and high-need areas, the groups came together to revitalize community alliances that were initially sparked pre the COVID-19 pandemic. The event began with a powerful visioning session, where participants imagined what growing worker power could look like in upstate New York. Together, they explored a shared vision of resilient support networks and sustainable worker alliances that could stand up to local issues while shaping broader movement dynamics.

The day's activities emphasized the importance of strong alliances across unions/workers centers, research on trends in immigrant worker organizing, and peer-to-peer training to build sustainable power. Attendees identified key areas for action, such as expanding organizing efforts, creating stronger campaign structures, and increasing support networks for youth and immigrant workers, especially in the face of upcoming elections. One participant noted, "With the power of our shared vision and collective strength..."

By the event’s end, organizations left with concrete plans to scale their efforts in response to the upcoming election results and other critical timelines. As they continue to develop shared goals and actions, this coalition is poised to transform the worker-center landscape, build powerful organizing bases, and foster networks of care across upstate New York.

The Worker Center Innovation Hub (The Hub) is a project of the Worker Institute supported by the Lois Gray Innovation Initiative. For more information, or to access our trainings, reach out to our Director of Training and Curriculum Design, Arianna Drakotas Schindle at as947@cornell.edu