South Carolina Organizer
As a past fellow of the Advancing Black Strategists Initiative Project, Nichel collaborated with the United Steelworkers (USW) on the Giti Tire campaign in Chester, South Carolina. ‘Cutting with A Clear Conscious’ is a community initiative Nichel created while organizing in Chester to identify additional Giti Tire workers and build alliances.
During her ABSI fellowship, Nichel was given the opportunity to provide organizing support on the Blue Bird Campaign led by the USW in Fort Valley, Georgia. The workers experienced the deep passion Nichel holds through her ability to organize through faith and labor during the final days of the successful campaign.
A fierce and passionate leader, Nichel has co-organized powerful actions in Charlotte, North Carolina empowering workers and their voices to stand up against hazardous working conditions, unfair labor practices, and fighting for dignity on the job. As a statewide officer of UE150 (United Electrical, Radio and Machine Workers of America) and recent graduate of UE’s Leadership Staff & Development Program, Nichel fights fearlessly for the rights of all workers through community organizing, political education, and interfaith collaborations. Almost 20 years ago, Nichel was a victim of unfair working conditions, discrimination, and retaliation, forcing a fight against a Fortune 500 company in Federal Court as a ‘pro se’ plaintiff.
A graduate of Queens University of Charlotte and a member of the Southern Workers Assembly and Black Workers for Justice, Nichel’s organizing skills and strategic thinking will continue to lead fights in the South that promote dignity on the job, livable wages, and a fair and just transition.