The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) and the Transportation Communications Union (TCU/IAM) are marking the 100th anniversary of the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters (BSCP), which was established on August 25, 1925. The BSCP became the first labor union led by African Americans to join the American Federation of Labor (AFL).
Pullman porters at the Pullman Company sought out A. Philip Randolph, a civil rights leader and labor organizer, to help form a union aimed at securing fair wages and justice. Their efforts faced significant resistance from their employer but ultimately resulted in official recognition for the BSCP in 1935.
“The Sleeping Car Porters proved that solidarity can overcome even the most powerful corporate opposition and deep-seated injustice,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “This anniversary is a celebration of the past and a reminder of the work ahead. Their story continues to inspire the IAM and TCU/IAM as we fight for fairness and dignity for every worker.”
The BSCP’s success extended beyond labor rights, influencing later movements for civil rights in America. It was recognized as both the first major black union in the United States and as an organization with an international charter from the AFL.
“When the BSCP merged with our Union, they brought an extraordinary legacy of courage and resilience,” said TCU/IAM National President Artie Maratea. “That proud history is alive today in the men and women working onboard trains across the country. The Sleeping Car Porters and the legacy of A. Philip Randolph and his belief in organized labor are a celebrated source of pride that TCU/IAM will continue to uphold.”
A Washington Post interview from 1973 quoted A. Philip Randolph reflecting on his persistence during negotiations with Pullman: “I don’t ever remember a single day of hopelessness,” he said. “I knew from the history of the labor movement, and especially of the black people, that it was an undertaking of great trial . . . that, live or die, I had to stick with it and we had to win.”
In 1978, members of BSCP merged with BRAC—now known as TCU/IAM—to create what is now called the Sleeping Car Porters System Division.
“The legacy of the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters shows the link between the labor movement and the civil rights movement,” said Josh Hartford, special assistant to IAM International President. “Their struggle for dignity on the job helped lay foundation for greater justice in our society, and that fight continues today through IAM Union Rail Division.”
