Latina/o Workers Leadership Institute: September 17-19
The Latina/o Worker Leadership Institute invites all workers, union or non-union, and activists from allied organizations to share ideas and grow skills for responding to the challenges facing Latina/o working persons and learn about Latina/o culture. We welcome participants from all genders and all cultural or ethnic backgrounds.
Information and registration for our upcoming conference below.
You can review the curriculums offered at past conferences below. As this is a long-standing conference, please note that not every year is represented. To see photos and video from past conferences, visit the Latina/o Worker Leadership Institute Facebook page.
JPG of flyer front and flyer back
WORKSHOPS
1. The Power of Participations: Understanding the Strength of the Latina/o Vote – This workshop will explore how working people can shape their communities and governments through organized engagement. Participants will discuss the strategic power that Latina/o communities wield in elections and communities, and practice the skills needed to hold electeds accountable to the people they represent.
2. Employee Rights and Labor Law – Every worker has workplace rights, but many are unaware that they exist or how to enforce them. This workshop will walk through workers’ legal rights, including collective bargaining rights, discrimination & harassment protections, workplace health & safety, and wages & hours protections. Participants will learn how workplace protections can be enforced, through both organizing and the legal system. Attendees will build confidence to navigate these workplace challenges.
3. Civil and Human Rights: Advancing, Equality, Justice and Dignity – This workshop will explore the historical and ongoing importance of civil and human rights movements. Participants will examine key civil and human rights movements, landmark achievements, and challenges facing communities today. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how civil rights are protected, how discrimination and inequality can be addressed, and how individuals can help to create more equitable and inclusive workplaces and communities.
4. Developing Effective Workplace Leaders – Strong stewards and committee persons are the backbone of a successful union. This workshop is designed to equip union representatives with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to effectively represent members, address workplace concerns, and enforce the collective bargaining agreement.
5. Effective Communication: Intro to AI – Effective communication is one of the most valuable skills in today’s workplace, and clear messaging is key to engaging fellow workers. The emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) tools has drastically changed the communications landscape; its promise of enhanced productivity comes with concerns about the future of work, the environment, and AI ethics. This workshop will combine the fundamentals of effective communication with a discussion-based critical introduction to AI.
6. Colegio de Niña/os – Kids’ College – It’s never too early for young people to learn about organized labor and union activism! Conference attendees are encouraged to bring the young person in their life (ages 8-15) to this one-day workshop on Saturday, September 19, where they’ll learn about fighting for fairness and the power of solidarity. The youth registration fee is $60, and their parent/guardian must be a conference participant.
7. Financial Planning 101 – Personal finance 101 will set the foundation for establishing financial goals and understanding the financial tools that are needed for you to accomplish those goals.
8. Roots of Resistance: Latina/o Labor History – At the root of Latina/o History are stories of perseverance, leadership, and lasting contributions to the labor movement. Participants will explore the role Latina/o workers have played in shaping industries, improving working conditions, and advancing workplace rights throughout U.S. history. Participants will learn about key historical achievements, leaders who influenced the movement, and challenges that helped transform labor and community organizing.
REGISTRATION INFORMATION
REGISTRATION: cost is $600 ($540 tuition, $60 mandatory meal fee) Youth one day is $60 and must be registered by the deadline.
Register online by using the below form, email photo/scan of the flyer above to CLCS.info@umich.edu or fax 313-588-6430. Note, postal mail can take up to two weeks to reach us. You do not need your payment or voucher first to register. Please register and pay by September 10th, 2026. If we receive the full $600 payment by that date, you are eligible for the Express Lane—a shorter wait at check in. The mandatory meal payment includes 2 breakfasts and 2 lunches; evening meals are on your own. Tuition Assistance Programs (TAPs) cover tuition costs, but not meals. If using TAP, apply for $540 tuition; you or your workplace pay the $60 meal payment beforehand or at registration.
TIME AND DATES: Check-in is Thursday, September 17, 4:30pm to 6:30pm. Welcome Session is 7:00pm to 9:00pm. A second check-in is 7:30am to 8:30am Friday. Conference runs 8:00am to 5:00pm Friday & Saturday, with graduation on Saturday.
EVENT LOCATION: The University of Michigan-Dearborn, Fairlane Center South, 19000 Hubbard Dr., Dearborn, Michigan 48126.
HOTEL ROOMS: Rooms are available at the DoubleTree by Hilton Detroit-Dearborn at 5801 Southfield Freeway, Detroit, for $145 per night plus tax. You can book at this special rate by calling 1-800-222-8733 and ask for code LWLI by September 1, 2026 to reserve a room. You can also use this link to reserve: https://www.hilton.com/en/attend-my-event/dttdbdt-lwc-ae6659be-15d1-46de-aaa8-1299c29d2ce0/
CANCELLATION/REFUND: The last date to cancel the event at no cost is September 10th. To be valid, cancellations must be called in to CLCS at 313-583-6400. Registrants who do not cancel by the deadline or No-Show owe full payment of $600.
LIMITED NUMBER OF PARTIAL SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE: Please contact our office or refer to this scholarship form here.
