Managing with Labor's Values Buffalo Area

In June, leaders from across industries and worker justice organizations gathered in Buffalo for the Managing with Labor’s Values workshop series. This workshop is a unique training designed to help managers in unions and social justice groups lead effectively without compromising their core principles.

The two-day workshop, held on June 17 and 18 at Buffalo State University, focused on equipping participants with practical tools to support and hold their teams accountable while honoring the values of the labor movement. Day 1 covered how managing in a union and worker organization setting is different from conventional management work, ways to adapt management styles, fostering intrinsic motivation, and articulating a clear vision. Day 2 delved into giving feedback, building accountability through tools like reporting systems, communicating roles and expectations clearly, and team-building strategies.

What made this workshop stand out was the diversity of participants. The class included leaders and staff directors from a wide range of sectors and worker justice organizations from the Buffalo area as well as other areas in the East Coast. Through short presentations, case studies, small group work, role play, and candid discussions of real workplace challenges, attendees gained new insights and forged valuable connections across movements.

This training series reaffirmed the critical role effective management plays in advancing the labor movement and social justice causes, showing that strong leadership and steadfast values can go hand in hand.

For more information, leaders interested in future workshops can contact Katie Gerken at mkg74@cornell.edu.