Inaugural CFA Leadership Academy Empowers Union Activists

About 50 members gathered at CFA Headquarters from April 24 to 26 for an inaugural Leadership Academy to build relationships, share knowledge, and sustain and empower our union into the future.  

Both seasoned and emerging leaders participated in workshops on anti-racism and social justice unionism, leadership development, core labor skills, and understanding CFA structures, decision-making processes, and collective power.    

Loren Cannon, CFA Secretary and Cal Poly Humboldt lecturer, said the best part about the Leadership Academy was being in a space with fellow union activists from across the state and imagining the tremendous and still untapped potential of our organization.   

“The feeling was one of generosity: generosity of space, of learning, and of sharing experiences,” Cannon said. “People were generous with their time, as we were together all weekend and generous in sharing their wisdom and expertise for the betterment of all.  It is such a gift to have an experience so engendering of hope, especially in these uncertain times.” 

Cannon enjoyed all the workshops, but the activity on the history of CFA was his favorite. He said it was fascinating to see how CFA has persisted through changing social and political contexts and how members build on previous wins. Knowing this history gives perspective on what it means to be involved in social justice unionism, he added.  

The committee behind the event is already beginning to plan a Leadership Academy for Fall 2026. Stay tuned for more information.