Throughout National Native American Heritage Month, the AFL-CIO will be profiling leaders and activists to spotlight the diverse contributions Native Americans have made to the labor movement and toward expanding the rights of working people. Today's profile is Alexsander C. Gladstone Bigwolf of the Bricklayers (BAC).

“Union trades can change the trajectory of yourself and people around you,” said Alexsander C. Gladstone Bigwolf. “Masonry has given a lot to my family.” Bigwolf’s grandfather Chester was the first Native American bricklayer apprentice who completed the apprenticeship program with BAC. With the apprenticeship training benefits, he was able to continue his education at South Seattle College and receive his degree, which has helped him get his dream jobs.

Tags: Native American Heritage Month