Porter leads Indiana House in recognizing Indiana Labor Header Debra Garcia

Representative Gregory W. Porter (D-Indianapolis) led Indiana House members today in recognizing Debra Garcia for her work as a labor leader in Indiana for close to 40 years.

From her humble beginnings as a housekeeper at the Richmond State Hospital in the mid-1980s, Garcia rose to her current position as executive director of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Council 962.

Porter was joined on the House floor by Garcia, Richmond State Hospital employee Sherry Asher, Vice Chairwoman of the Indiana Democratic Party Cordelia Lewis Burks, Assistant Director of AFSCME Council 962 Ron Richman and a long-time friend of Garcia’s, Yvonne Tucker.

“Her career as someone who fights for the rights of workers began when she was wrongfully terminated from her job at Richmond State Hospital,” Porter said. “Thanks to her co-workers at AFSCME, she was able to win her case and return to work.”

Garcia became a union steward after President Bill VanMeter inspired her to get more involved with AFSCME. Garcia was also inspired by future union leaders, including AFSCME Regional Director Steve Fantauzzo. She left her state job to become a staff representative organizer with what was at the time AFSCME Council 62 in Indianapolis.

Over the next 38 years, Garcia visited Kansas, Ohio, Missouri, Wisconsin, and Kentucky through her involvement with AFSCME. Over the course of nearly four decades, Garcia held positions ranging from lead organizer and area field services director to her most recent position as executive director of AFSCME Council 962.

“I am proud to stand here today with Ms. Debra Garcia to recognize the work she has done as labor leader for Hoosiers throughout Indiana and the United States,” Porter said. “Ms. Garcia is a passionate representative for Hoosier workers who is dedicated to fighting for social and economic justice for all.

“I know Ms. Garcia will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with her union sisters and brothers to protect and fight for working Hoosier families,” Porter concluded.