Arizona Labor Dispatch, Vol. 2, Issue 110
Today, I want to take a moment to shine a light on two incredible women who've been making a real difference in our community: the Chair and Co-Chair of the Maricopa Area Labor Federation (MALF), Teresa D'Asaro and Dawn Schumann.
Meet Teresa D'Asaro:
Teresa D’Asaro is a fourth-generation union member and recent retiree from UFCW Local 99. Originally from Yuma, Arizona, Teresa got her start in the labor movement in 1992 as a rank-and-file union member at a Smith’s grocery store in Torrance, California. In 1994, she moved to Mesa, Arizona, and became a shop steward. Then shortly after, she was recruited by her union rep to work as a Special Project Union Representative (SPUR), signing up new members to join Local 99 across Arizona. In 1997, she was officially hired as a Union Rep and over the next 27 years, she worked her way up through the union as a Field Coordinator, Field Director, and Community Outreach Director. Following her retirement in December 2023, Teresa has continued to be a champion for working Arizonans through her role as Secretary-Treasure on the Executive Board of the UFCW International Women’s Network and as Chair of the Maricopa Area Labor Federation. Teresa will continue her leadership role and has joined community organizations to continue to make a difference.
Meet Dawn Schumann:
Dawn Schumann's journey into union activism began in 2015, when she officially joined the Teamsters after spending years volunteering with Teamsters Local 104. Since becoming part of MALF in 2016, Dawn's commitment has only grown stronger, leading her to become Co-Chair in 2018. Additionally, she serves as the President of Pride at Work, Arizona Chapter.
Since becoming the Co-Chair for the MALF and also serving as the Policital Director and Lobbyist for Teamsters Local 104, Dawn has worked closely with all unions within the AFL-CIO. She has been an active member of the Legislative Committee, ensuring that the concerns of unions are heard and addressed by elected officials. For Dawn, the opportunity to endorse candidates and hold them accountable for their actions is a privilege she holds dear. As the President of P@W, she will continue to fight for all members of the LGBTQIA+ family, especially in the workplace.
She is happily married to Karla Schumann, and they call Phoenix home along with their beloved fur babies, Sedona and Bisbee. With seven children and seven grandchildren, family is precious to them both. When they're not working, you'll likely find them exploring national parks or spending quality time with their loved ones.
Celebrating Their Accomplishments with MALF:
Under the leadership of Teresa D'Asaro and Dawn Schumann, MALF has achieved remarkable milestones. Their efforts have improved the lives of innumerable workers and their families, from setting up the Andy & Dorothy Ward Scholarship to planning entertaining events like the Cornhole Tournament. Furthermore, MALF's participation in county and city elections demonstrates their dedication to promoting laws that put the rights and welfare of workers first.
Furthermore, their continued commitment to commemorating Workers' Memorial Day acts as a moving reminder of the sacrifices made by employees and the continuous struggle for better working conditions.
Teresa D'Asaro and Dawn Schumann exemplify the spirit of solidarity and advocacy that defines the labor movement in Arizona. Their unwavering commitment to empowering workers, promoting inclusivity, and fighting for social justice inspires us all. As we honor their remarkable contributions, let us reaffirm our commitment to building a more just and equitable future for all workers.
In solidarity,
Fred Yamashita
Secretary-Treasurer
Executive Director
Arizona AFL-CIO
