Long Island Coalition of Black Trade Unionists is part of the national CBTU that was founded in 1972.  The Long Island CBTU was founded in May 2001 by President Rudy Bruce, Barbara Jones, Les Eason, several other CSEA members along with 4 other unions.  Rudy Bruce remained President from 2001 until July 2011 when Alan Jennings took over the reins.  The Long Island Chapter are one of 50 chapters nationwide.  In 2004, after only 3 years of existence the Long Island CBTU was named the best chapter in the nation.

CBTU is not a black separatist or civil rights organization. It is the fiercely independent voice of black workers within the trade union movement, challenging organized labor to be more relevant to the needs and aspirations of Black and poor workers.  At the same time, CBTU is recognized as a potent economic and political force within the African American community. One of every five black workers (20%) belongs to a union, and black union members earn 40 percent more than do non-union black workers.

On Long Island, CBTU is active with many events throughout the year that raise funds to be used in the local community, including providing scholarships for deserving young students.  They also contribute at least $500 per year to the American Cancer Society through the Annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk at Jones Beach.   CBTU is very influential in the political arena as many local government officials often attend events and support the values of this organization.  Long Island CBTU participates in Get Out the Vote (GOTV) each year as they supply non partisan literature to the communities about issues, while not making endorsements.  The Long Island CBTU board educates children on specific issues so they can go door to door and inform members of the community.

May 23-28, 2012:  CBTU International Convention, St. Louis, MO
July 7, 2012:  Day at the Races, Belmont Racetrack- 11:30am
October 25, 2012:  Fall Gala, Chateau Briand, Carle Place- 7pm

Long Island CBTU meets the 3rd Tuesday of every month at the CSEA Local 830 office at 400 County Seat Drive in Mineola, in the Lower Level. 

Please note:  The next meeting will be at the CSEA LI Region One Office at 3 Garet Place in Commack on Tuesday, April 17 at 6pm.

For more information on the meeting email President Alan Jennings at president@longislandcbtu.org.