Labor, community leaders and supporters gather in Long Beach to highlight jobs, infrastructure and economic opportunity
LONG BEACH, CALIFORNIA : The strength of organised labor and community participation was on display in Long Beach, California, as members and supporters of the Laborers International Union of North America (LIUNA) Local 1309 took part in a colorful rally focused on workers, economic opportunity, infrastructure and the future of the state.
Many participants were dressed in LIUNA distinctive orange shirts as they moved through the streets behind a large orange trailer bearing the union’s slogan, “LIUNA! Feel the Power.” Other displays carried the message “LIUNA Builds,” highlighting the union’s connection with construction workers, infrastructure development and skilled labor. The gathering attracted labor supporters and community-development advocates, including Alhaja Lina Code, the outgoing President of the WAMUFAT Youth Community Development Foundation, while Attn. Fatimoh Muhammed was also in attendance. Their presence added a community dimension to the event, bringing attention to issues that affect working families and local communities, including employment, youth opportunities, infrastructure and economic development.
LIUNA Local 1309 is a local of the Laborers International Union of North America, representing workers in construction and related sectors in Southern California. The local, based in Lakewood, has a longstanding connection with the Long Beach area and has maintained an active presence in labor, community and civic affairs. Its “LIUNA Builds” message reflects the important role of organised labor in construction, infrastructure projects and economic development, while the union has also remained active on public policy and issues affecting working families.
The Long Beach mobilisation comes as California heads towards the November 3, 2026 gubernatorial election, with political parties and interest groups intensifying their activities across the state. Former California Attorney General and former U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra is campaigning for the Democratic nomination, while Republican Steve Hilton is his general-election opponent. Becerra has placed issues including affordability, housing, healthcare, jobs and opportunities for working families at the Centre of his campaign message.
His relationship with organised labor is also notable. Becerra previously worked with LIUNA, following in the footsteps of his father, who was also a laborer. His background has contributed to his longstanding ties with the labor movement. The participation of community-development figures such as Alhaja Fatimoh Muhammed reflects the intersection between labor concerns and broader community interests.
For many residents, debates surrounding California’s political future extend beyond electoral politics. They include practical concerns such as access to decent-paying jobs, affordable housing, healthcare, infrastructure, economic security and opportunities for young people. The presence of community advocates at the Long Beach gathering therefore underscored the importance of connecting labor issues with the wider needs of local community
The procession of LIUNA members and supporters through Long Beach, dressed largely in orange and accompanied by the union’s “Feel the Power” and “LIUNA Builds” messages, provided a strong visual demonstration of organised labor’s presence in California’s public and political life. The attendance of community-development representatives further highlighted the relationship between labor, economic development and community interests. As California approaches the November election, issues such as jobs, wages, housing, affordability, infrastructure and opportunities for working families are expected to remain central to the political conversation. For many participants, the mobilisation represents not only support for organised labor but also a broader call for economic opportunity and community development across California.
Ayo Sogbuyi is a seasoned journalist with over 30 years of experience, he is a passionate advocate for press freedom and ethical reporting. Throughout his career, he has covered significant global events and championed the role of journalism in holding power to account.