Public Employee Press

Union launches new African Heritage Committee

The newly established DC 37 African Heritage Committee held its inaugural event May 11 at the union. "We are thrilled to finally get this committee launched," said Committee Chair and DC 37 Vice President Morris R. Johnson in his opening remarks. "Our committee looks forward to working together with the African community and making a difference for union members."

Local 420 2nd Vice President Togba R. Porte co-chairs the committee.

DC 37 Treasurer and Local 1407 President Maf Misbah Uddin congratulated the new committee. "This is a great opportunity to get more members involved, not just in this committee but in the union as well," he said. "DC 37 welcomes you and wishes you the best."

Guests included Sidique Abou-Bakarr Wai, the president of the New York-based United African Congress and former Local 374 President Jacob Azeke, the first African-born president of a DC 37 local. "This committee can be a significant voice for Africans in this country and be influential in Africa as well," said Wai. "We've come a long way," said Azeke, now an activist in the DC 37 Retirees Association.