Springfield, IL – Labor tradeswomen are taking over Springfield next week for Illinois Tradeswomen Advocacy Day.

Building trades affiliates, union leaders, contractors and construction workers will come to Springfield, Ill. on Wednesday, March 5, for a day of advocacy and education. Attendees will meet with elected officials to discuss ways to recruit, retain and empower women in construction careers.

“With the attacks on Organized Labor and working people coming from the White House, it is critical that we show our solidarity and the power of the Labor Movement,” said Tim Drea, president of the Illinois AFL-CIO. “Even in a pro-Labor state like Illinois, we know that we cannot take anything for granted.”

Registration has closed for the lobbying seminar and representative meetings. The lobby day at the Capitol runs until 3 p.m., followed by the Illinois AFL-CIO Labor Salutes reception at the state treasurer’s office in Springfield. Local unions, members and organizations are encouraged to attend as they honor elected officials who advocate for worker rights. Recipients will include U.S. Rep. Nikki Budzinski, who will receive the Margaret Blackshere Woman in Leadership Award.