History of SJOIIM
The Journeymen and Industrial Workers was founded back in July 15th 1932. Originally known as SJOI, during the first years of existence, the Union dealt with the cotton and seed industries which were rapidly increasing their popularity in those years. Few years later, other unions were created for different occupations such as carpenters, electricians, plumbers, bakers, etc.
In the midst of national discontent regarding the labor situation, many strikes were formed and many victories achieved. Among such victories, the most important at national scale was the creation of The Mexico Labor Federation (CTM) in 1936. In the same year, the workers in Matamoros affiliated to a union sent a representative committee which once organized in CTM received the name of Matamoros’ Workers Regional Federation (FRTM) and was represented by members of the different unions such as the waiters, carpenters, and journeymen among others.
It is important to mention that back in the 30’s, the advances and victories achieved by the labor class were one of the most impressive expressions of the Mexican Revolution. In Matamoros, the economic development allowed the growth of the population which in turn caused the expansion of the labor class and the SJOIIM and FRTM became a pillar in the labor movement.
In 1964, Agapito González Cavazos was elected as leader of the FRTM, and continued to be re-elected for almost 4 decades. During his administration, important social improvements favoring the workers and their quality of life were achieved.
The current leader of the union is Mr. Juan Villafuerte, who has proven to have an excellent initiative and a deep concern for the welfare of the regional workers, as well as finding innovative ways for the companies to expand their operations with available, qualified and motivated workforce.
