Fighting for Workers’ and Civil Rights: APRI Memphis

Introduction to the Memphis Chapter’s history and roots: “Organized in 1970 by courageous Black union activists, APRI Memphis builds upon the national legacy of A. Philip Randolph and Bayard Rustin to advance economic, racial, and social justice in our city and region”.

About

What We Do

The Memphis APRI chapter advances social, economic, and racial justice through grassroots organizing, coalition-building, and community empowerment. Our programs strengthen the connection between the labor movement and the community—boosting voter participation, advocating for fair workplaces, advancing civil rights, and engaging youth and local organizations. By uniting workers, families, and allies, we continue the legacy of A. Philip Randolph and Bayard Rustin to create lasting, positive change in our city and region.

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Voter Education and Participation:

Get Out The Vote efforts, community workshops, and voter empowerment programs.

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Civil Rights and Social Programs:

Advocacy on key civil rights, anti-discrimination, and diversity.

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Labor and Economic Justice:

Support for workers’ rights, union organizing, fair wages, and safe workplaces.

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Youth and Community Engagement:

Partnerships with schools, youth groups, civic, and faith organizations.

Get Involved

Learn More

The Memphis APRI chapter welcomes all individuals committed to advancing social and economic justice. Whether volunteering for voter outreach, supporting union organizing, helping at community events, or providing administrative help, every hour matters and everyone is given training and guidance—no prior experience is needed. New volunteers join a nationwide family of more than 250 active participants dedicated to positive change. Membership is open to both individuals and organizations, with easy sign-up options and an active newsletter so supporters stay informed and engaged. Stand up and add your voice: join, volunteer, or donate to help build a more just Memphis and a stronger labor movement for all.

Impact in Numbers

109 Chapters

Across the United States, APRI chapters work for justice.

31 States

Our reach extends into 31 states, building coalitions for change.

6 Constituency Groups

Including labor, youth, women, retirees, professionals, and community allies

The Memphis APRI chapter drives measurable change in our community and connects local action to a powerful national movement for justice. Each number represents lives touched, voices amplified, and progress made—guided by a legacy of civil and labor rights advocacy. Together, Memphis and APRI’s national network build a more just future for all.

Connect with Us Today!

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Founders’ Legacy

“Equality is the heart and essence of democracy, freedom, and justice, equality of opportunity in industry, in labor unions, schools and colleges, government, politics, and before the law. There must be no dual standards of justice, no dual rights, privileges, duties, or responsibilities of citizenship. No dual forms of freedom.”

A. Philip Randolph

Memphis APRI News

Why the Reopening of CoreCivic’s Private Jail in Mason Is Bad for Mason, Tennessee, and the Nation

Oct 8, 2025

In August 2025, officials in Mason, Tennessee approved measures to reopen a long-vacant prison as an ICE detention center managed by CoreCivic, one of the nation’s largest for-profit prison operators. The decision, reaching far beyond debates about local economics,...

Standing Together for Voter Empowerment in 2025: The Fight for Fair Elections in Memphis

Oct 8, 2025

In 2025, the Memphis chapter of the A. Philip Randolph Institute (APRI) stands on the frontlines in the ongoing fight for fair and equal access to the ballot box. In a year marked by new challenges and fresh opportunities, Memphis APRI and its partners are championing...

Labor and Civil Rights: Honoring the Legacy of Memphis’ Sanitation Strike

Oct 8, 2025

The story of Memphis’s 1968 Sanitation Strike is a story of courage, unity, and transformation. As we look back more than half a century, we not only honor the bravery of the sanitation workers but also trace how their struggle continues to shape today’s battles for...