First-ever UFCW OUTreach Convention
October 7, 2025
From October 4 – 5, 2025, UFCW OUTreach held its first-ever convention.
The convention, The Art of Solidarity – Tools to Build a 2SLGBTQIA+ Affirming Union, took place in Philadelphia and welcomed UFCW members and staff from Canada and the United States.
Delegates included President Kelly Tosato and Secretary-Treasurer Jim McLean, along with Recorder Karen Vaughan, as well as Local Union Executive Board members Chigozie Agubata, Tyler Colwell, and Joy Searles, and several Directors and staff.
UFCW OUTreach is dedicated to uniting UFCW members and allies in the fight for equality and justice for 2SLGBTQIA+ workers everywhere. Learn more about this UFCW group and their work on their website.
Activists heard from inspiring speakers, including UFCW International President Milton Jones, RWSDU President Stuart Applebaum, and guest speakers State Representative Malcolm Kenyatta and Congresswoman Sarah McBride. Delegates heard panel discussions on a number of pressing topics, and took part in several workshops on organizing, inclusion, and building stronger, more equitable workplaces:
- Solidarity through Visibility
- Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging: 4 Staples for our Future
- From the Floor to the Table: Advancing 2SLGBTQIA+ Protections in Union Negotiations
Plenary sessions addressed the important of Union’s fighting back against anti-2SLGBTQIA+ backlash and the future of UFCW OUTreach.
