On Saturday, March 15, 2025, at 1:00 pm, the Greater Kansas City Black History Study Group hosted its annual Women’s History Month Program. The 2025 theme, African Americans and Labor, as expressed in the executive summary, allowed us to examine the many aspects of Black labor including compensated labor in factories as well as organized labor’s role in fighting both economic and social injustice. The long history of the automotive industry and the labor organizations that evolved provided a rich subject area for exploration.
Our featured guest speaker, Ms. Sadie Bass, discussed her journey to working at Ford Motor Company and being a member of UAW Local 249. Given the current political climate which has placed labor unions and diversity initiatives under attack. Bass discussed the role of labor unions in advancing workers’ rights, their impact on African American workers, and the unique challenges African American women have faced in the workplace and the labor movement.
Bass, who is a member of UAW Local 249, has served as Treasurer for the last two years. She is Chair of the Community Service Committee and an alternate benefits representative for Ford Motor Company ensuring employees receive the support and resources they deserve. Additionally, she co-chairs the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) team at Ford Motor Company’s Kansas City Assembly Plant and serves as the Third Vice President of the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists and its Greater Kansas City Chapter, amplifying the voices of Black workers and advocating for labor rights. Given these roles, Ms. Bass is facing the challenges head-on and is a powerful force for positive change in the workplace, her community, and beyond.
Shown in the picture are: L to R David Brown (new Life member), Dr. Nozella Brown (new Life member), Larry Lester, GKCBHSG President, Ms. Sadie Bass, guest speaker and Dr. Cecelia Robinson, GKCBHSG VP-Membership.