Collective Power at the Annual General Assembly

Two weekends ago, Damayan members exercised their collective power at the Annual Damayan General Assembly (GA) in Queens, NY, electing the Board of Directors for 2025–26. The GA—the organization’s highest decision-making body—is comprised of eligible, dues-paying members who set priorities and choose the Board through a democratic vote.

Board candidates delivered impassioned speeches in person and via video, and members posed thoughtful questions that centered worker leadership, accountability, and care. In the end, four candidates were elected: the Executive Director, two ally Board members, and one worker Board member. A special Board election will be held in October 2025 to fill an additional worker seat, ensuring strong worker representation. In these challenging times, Damayan continues to create spaces where members build collective strength through shared decision-making.

“As a first-time voter, I made sure to attend the Damayan General Assembly and Board elections. Being a dues-paying member and exercising my right to vote made me feel responsible and truly part of the organization. We, the members, are the foundation of a strong Damayan, and our leaders are the pillars that keep us united. We need to be proactive—not just for our own interests, but for the whole membership and the future workers who will rely on an organization like Damayan,” said Nini, a Damayan member.

Members also received the 2024–25 Accomplishment Report, reflecting on achievements, lessons, and the path forward, and the 2024–25 Financial Report, advancing transparency about income and expenses.

Finally, the GA passed several member-driven resolutions that will guide the work ahead. Members left grounded, energized, and ready to organize.