CHICAGO – To brainstorm how to bring diversity to labor unions, Senate Labor Committee Chair Omar Aquino, Executive Committee Chair Mattie Hunter and Commerce and Economic Development Committee Chair Suzy Glowiak Hilton will lead a joint hearing Thursday afternoon.

“Illinois is home of a diverse population. Four out of 10 residents are people of color. Just like everybody else, these workers pursue the means to support their families and execute their jobs under safe conditions,” Aquino said. “Unions are the backbone of a proper labor representation. That’s why I look forward to working with them in expanding opportunities for our workforce. The pre-apprenticeship programs are a great asset to offer job training and gather real-life experience, both elements key for finding a well-paying job.”

“In order to create true diversity in labor unions and trades, we have to make sure every applicant has the same opportunities as others,” Hunter said. “We also have to take a deeper look at the strategies companies are using to strengthen their building capacity, and that the resources they provide to their partnerships ensure productivity.”

"Diversity and inclusion in trade education programs and the workplace leads to success," Glowiak Hilton said. "I'm looking forward to exploring policies for women and people of color to have the same opportunities for fulfilling careers in the labor industry. Let us all share in our common values of dignity and respect for one another to build back our economy.”

To watch the virtual committee, visit https://ilga.gov/senateaudvid.asp and click "Watch Live Virtual Committee Video." The link will be available at 1 p.m.

Additional witnesses can submit written testimony online at www.ilga.gov.

WHO: Senate Labor Committee Chair Omar Aquino (D-Chicago), Executive Committee Chair Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago), Commerce and Economic Development Committee Chair Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs), and members of the Commerce and Economic Development, Executive, State Government, and Supplier Diversity Committees

WHAT: A joint committee hearing on diversity in labor unions, building trades and pre-apprenticeship programs

WHERE: The virtual hearing can be viewed here: https://ilga.gov/senateaudvid.asp#. Blue Room Stream, a subscription-based service, will also stream the hearing.

WHEN: Thursday, Oct. 29 at 1 p.m.