Union leaders from across the state gathered this week for the Connecticut AFL-CIO’s biennial convention — a powerful reminder of the solidarity and shared purpose driving the labor movement forward.

Delegates re-elected Ed Hawthorne as President and Shellye Davis as Executive Vice President.

The convention was also a moment to reflect on the legacy of those who built the foundation we stand on today, including Ed Daly, a late CSEA leader who served not only as Council 400 President but also as CSEA President. Daly’s leadership left a lasting mark on our union and the broader labor movement — his tireless advocacy and unwavering belief in solidarity continue to inspire generations of workers.

As the movement faces new challenges, the spirit of leaders like Ed Daly reminds us that when workers stand together, we can achieve lasting change for all.