The former and current staff of the Food Chain Workers Alliance are heartbroken that we lost our compañero and dear friend Mahoma López Garfias last week.
Mahoma’s work with FCWA member group the Laundry Workers Center started back in 2012 when he supported Hot & Crusty workers throughout a 50-day lockout that ultimately led to a three-year union contract.
After that, Mahoma was a driving force supporting workers across NYC and New Jersey, securing victories like earned sick leave and raising the minimum wage.
Last week, Laundry Workers Center shared: “Under his leadership, the LWC grew its power, joining coalitions with the Food Chain Workers Alliance, the Excluded Workers Fund, and many others. Even until last week, Mahoma was doing what he loved most: discussing strategy and finding ways to reach more workers.”
In Alliance spaces, we could always count on Mahoma to show up and bring people together, whether he was making art at the annual summit or leading discussions on how to build worker-led campaigns and independent unions. He never hesitated to roll up his sleeves—always there for setup and cleanup. Mahoma was someone we could always count on.
We have lost a brother and a friend. An irreplaceable and deeply valued member of our community. Our movement is truly stronger because of him and we continue the work in his honor.
¡Mahoma, Presente!
