In Memory of a Working Class Hero

December 14, 2012

Juanita Rodriguez

AFSCME this month mourns the passing of Juanita Rodriguez, Assistant Regional Director of the East Region, a champion for workers’ rights, social justice and human rights.

Rodriguez’s work in AFSCME inspired many. She organized the unorganized and helped thousands gain the voice and respect in the workplace that they deserve. Her deeply held passion for the labor movement was pure. She believed as we all do that every worker deserves a voice.

Born in Piedras Niegras, Mexico, and raised in Del Rio, Texas, her childhood ingrained in her a few unwavering principles: love of family and friends, and unwavering loyalty and commitment. She worked incredibly hard and she understood sacrifice. She knew from personal experience what it means when working people sacrifice in order to feed their families; and she knew what it meant to sacrifice for something bigger than oneself.

Thirty-six years ago, she married her high school sweetheart, Juan. They had two children, Michelle and Johnny, and two grandsons, Jaxon and Orion.

Rodriguez began organizing with AFSCME as a volunteer member organizer in Louisville. It was clear from this first assignment that she had what it took to be a great organizer: strong work ethic, commitment and a connection with the workers she was organizing. She wasn't just talking to someone to get them to join the union. She felt and understood their struggle.

Rodriguez also built special relationships with her fellow organizers. Her trust and loyalty made her a natural mentor.

Sister Rodriguez lived life to the fullest and when you look at her family, her friends and co-workers, or the thousands of workers she has inspired, there is no doubt that she left this world a better place as a result of her actions.