Honoring Miguel Contreras: A Celebration of Legacy, Labor, and Learning
On September 17, The Miguel Contreras Foundation and The Miguel Contreras Learning Complex gathered as a community to celebrate the life and legacy of Miguel Contreras. Over 200 students came together for a day filled with music, culture, and community to honor what would have been Miguel's 73rd birthday.
Thank you to everyone who joined us in continuing to build the future of labor together. For those who couldn’t attend, here’s a quick recap:
Who We Heard From
To honor Miguel's legacy, leaders who knew him personally inspired us to continue to carry forward his vision of justice and worker power:
- Yvonne Wheeler, President of the LA County Federation of Labor, uplifted Miguel's organizing legacy and challenged students to carry the torch.
- Dr. Rocio Rivas, LAUSD Board Vice President, spoke on the power of education and celebrated the new MCF–LAUSD partnership.
- Michael Contreras, MCF Board President and Miguel's son, shared a heartfelt memory of his father and the influence of art and civic engagement.
- Senator María Elena Durazo, California Senate District 26, reflected on Miguel as a husband, mentor, and movement builder, urging students to see themselves as the future of labor and justice.
Why We Gathered
Celebrating Miguel's birthday and the start of Hispanic Heritage Month, students filled the day with a vibrant showcase of culture and talent, from mariachi to folklórico, reminding us that Miguel's legacy lives on in every classroom.
We also proudly announced a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Miguel Contreras Foundation and LAUSD, deepening our shared commitment to empowering LAUSD students and labor and immigrant communities.
What’s Next
Miguel’s spirit continues through collective action. Here’s how you can stay involved:
- Support Deported MCLC Student Nory with continuing her education (below)
- Support youth leadership and labor education -> donate here to help us empower the next generation of changemakers.
- Carry forward Miguel’s legacy in your school, family, and community by standing in solidarity with workers and advancing the labor movement.
