FRTM Commemorates Labor Day in Matamoros with Civic Parade
On May 1st, the Regional Federation of Workers of Matamoros (FRTM) led the traditional Labor Day civic parade, honoring the historic struggle of the martyrs of Chicago, Cananea, and Río Blanco, who 139 years ago raised their voices in defense of labor rights.
With participation from several affiliated unions, the FRTM reaffirmed its commitment to the working class on a date that not only reflects on the past but also invites dialogue on the current and future challenges of the labor movement.
A History That Unites Us: A Movement with Deep Roots
Labor Day traces its origins back to 1886, when Chicago workers marched for a fair workday. Despite repression and sacrifice, their actions laid the foundation for modern labor rights.
In Mexico, the movement gained traction in 1913 and was officially recognized in 1923 under President Álvaro Obregón. In Matamoros, organized labor has a notable history:
- 1928: Founding of the first waiters’ union
- 1930: Founding of the musicians’ union
- 1932: Founding of the SJOIIM, one of the most representative unions in the region
Words of Struggle and Commitment
On behalf of FRTM General Secretary Juan Villafuerte Morales, Jesús Sánchez Alvarado, Secretary of External Affairs of the SJOIIM, delivered a message calling on the community to protect existing jobs and unite to attract new investment to Matamoros:
“We must protect the jobs we currently have. That’s why we ask the three levels of government, business chambers, and companies to form a common front to create jobs in the city.”
He also demanded respect for labor rights, quicker legal resolutions in the cases of Componentes Universales and Edemsa, and the strengthening of institutions such as Infonavit, IMSS, and the educational system. He further emphasized the importance of free unionization.
“Let us work together around our General Secretary Juan Villafuerte Morales. Long live the CTM! Long live the FRTM! Long live the working class of Matamoros!”
Recognition from State and Municipal Authorities
On behalf of Governor Américo Villarreal, Lic. Francisco Guadalupe Yllescas García addressed the workers, acknowledging the FRTM’s ongoing efforts in defending local labor rights.
Similarly, Lic. Enrique Salinas, Secretary of Economic Development and Tourism of Matamoros, representing Mayor José Alberto Granados Fávila, called on all sectors to remain united in the city’s development efforts.
Worker Representation and Attendance
The event was attended by:
- General Secretaries of unions affiliated with the FRTM
- SJOIIM Executive Committee members
- Union delegates
- Company managers with collective agreements
- Special guests from the labor and production sectors
The civic parade was a display of strength, unity, and commitment to the labor cause, reinforcing FRTM’s leadership in defending labor rights in Mexico’s northern border region.
Final Reflection
May 1st not only marks a historic milestone, but also reminds us of the ongoing relevance of the union struggle in a constantly evolving world of work. Under the leadership of Juan Villafuerte Morales, the FRTM continues to serve as a pillar of advocacy and action for the working people of Matamoros.
This Labor Day was more than a commemoration—it was a call to renew our collective commitment to labor justice, the protection of human