Organizers of Black Labor Week have released the line-up of events scheduled for February 17-21, 2025, across Northwest Indiana and Chicago. Ephrin “E.J.” Jenkins, Founder and Executive Director of Black Labor Week Project Inc., continues to lead an active movement of supporters focused on highlighting the work of Black Labor unions. Jenkins founded the non-profit organization in 2012.
“The Black Labor Week movement continues to grow thanks to dedicated union members who recognize the power of our work and legacy,” said Jenkins. “The activities are designed to engage the community without regard to a union affiliation. We are here to make a positive impact in a cross-section of our community that includes both youth and adults.”
The organization champions several areas of focus throughout the week including youth, unemployment, education, mentoring, Black health, community service, leadership development, Black history, veterans, racism, sexism, racial injustice, sexual orientation and discrimination while practicing diversity and inclusion.
“Over the past 13 years, Black Labor Week has become a staple of resources within the Black community,” added Jenkins. “We aim to educate and shine a light on the contributions of Black leaders in the Black community, and Black History Month is the perfect time to make this happen.”
Since its inception, Black Labor Week has resulted in outreach and interaction with more than 40,000 students, 1,200 veterans, and 70,000 families through continuous service at the local schools, food banks, area shelters, and other organizations that provide assistance and resources in the Black community.
Four years ago, a community feeding was added to the “week of action.” As a result, more than 5,000 people have been fed. Black Labor Week Project has also engaged over 4,000 women, creating a platform of empowerment that has become highly anticipated each year. A component for Black men also exists titled “The Black Male Discussion.” Over 1,500 men have attended the panel discussions since its creation.
Lastly, the organization continues to strengthen its impact within public schools by supplying students with backpacks and school supplies.
“Our presence has led to the creation of mentoring programs that are implemented throughout the year, sharing resources with veterans and other initiatives that amplify our impact in the communities where we work, live and raise our families,” added Jenkins.
The line-up for Black Labor Week 2025 is as follows:
Monday, February 17, 2025
8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Community Breakfast at 3 locations in Gary, IN, and Chicago, IL
Free Haircuts at 4 locations in Gary, IN, and Chicago, IL
5:00 pm – Movie Night Location: UAW Local 551 Hall
13550 S Torrence Ave, Chicago, IL 60633
Tuesday, February 18, 2025
7:30 a.m. – Day of Education (15 Schools)
Indiana Welcome Center
7770 Corinne Dr., Hammond, IN 46323
5:00 p.m. – Black Male Discussion (Men’s Panel)
Location: Indiana University Northwest – Bergland Auditorium
3400 Broadway, Gary, IN 46408
Wednesday, February 19, 2025
8:00 am – 12:00 p.m. – Wednesday Workshops
Indiana Welcome Center
7770 Corinne Dr., Hammond, IN 46323
5:00 p.m. – Black Women Empowerment Seminar – Women’s Panel
Location: Indiana University Northwest
Bergland Auditorium
3400 Broadway, Gary, IN 46408
Thursday, February 20, 2025
7:30 a.m. – Day of Community Service (Multiple Locations)
Indiana Welcome Center
7770 Corinne Dr., Hammond, IN 46323
6:00 p.m. Doors Open – 7:00 p.m. Showtime
“A Night to Speak”
Location: Loft Adiq Ultra Lounge
752 Broadway, Gary, IN 46402
Friday, February 21, 2025
8:00 a.m. – Two Panel Discussions
– Building Collective, Collaborative & Strategic Partnerships
– From the Ballot Box to the Streets
Indiana Welcome Center
7770 Corinne Dr., Hammond, IN 46323
5:00 p.m. – Celebration of Civil Rights Awards Gala
Keynote speaker – Senator Nina Turner
Location: Dynasty Banquet Hall
4125 Calumet Avenue, Hammond, IN
For a complete list of activities, register for any of the events and/or purchase tickets to the gala email [email protected].