I would first like to pay respect to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., a man of immense patience
and wisdom whose compassion for humanity is unmatched.
I would also like to acknowledge the decades of hard work and dedication of the members
of the Teamsters LGBTQ+ Caucus who came before us, most recently our retiring National President, Chris Fuentes, Chris modernized the Caucus and implemented Regional Directorships which created a truly national caucus and raised the profile of LGBTQ+ Teamsters.

As a community we once again chart
a course through troubled waters. We are privileged to enjoy the rights that some died for and
others fought to preserve for our generation. This Caucus has grown and will continue to grow
to meet the challenges before us in these unprecedented times.
Taking over the obligations and responsibilities of the Office of President from Brother
Fuentes I would like to address plans moving forward this year.
The Caucus will continue to assist Locals and member to participate in Pride events
throughout the county. Each year members appear in new events from California to New York.
This year we are looking into World Pride on the East Coast. Visibility as a community is crucial.
The Membership Convention will take place later this fall in Washington, DC. Details will be
coordinated with the IBT and provided as they become solidified. Several digital membership
meetings are planned as well to facilitate better communication between regions and strategize
among the membership, so please make sure your contact information is up to date. This year
updates to the Caucus Bylaws will be presented as well as elections for the Board of Directors.
The Caucus will also continue to provide support to members and their Locals in navigating
workplace harassment and contract language to implement in White Paper contracts to ensure
the rights of our members regardless of the state where they work.

Moving forward, we are presented with two options. For years we have struggled as a
community to make progress toward equality. To be able to live with dignity.
We refuse to be cowed by ignorance and hate, or to. trade away the rights of
the most vulnerable in our community for a false sense of safety. We choose to stand together
and speak out for Solidarity, Equality and Respeact in the workplace and at large.

In the face of relentless misinformation, demeaning rhetoric, and dangerous legislation this
Caucus will stand, not because it is easy but because it is morally right. I invite you to stand
with us in Solidarity. We need each of you; Your creativeness, your joy your heartbreak, your voice.
Our path is through the storm.