By Mircy Coca Soriano
During my internship at the Labor Heritage Foundation, I gained a deeper appreciation for the powerful role that art and culture play in social movements, particularly within the labor movement. This experience not only broadened my understanding of labor history in the United States but also highlighted the importance of storytelling, music, and visual art in preserving and promoting workers’ rights.
One of the most impactful aspects of my internship was working on projects that gave a voice to working people. Whether helping to curate digital content, planning events like the 2025 Solidarity Forever Award, or supporting social media campaigns, I saw firsthand how cultural tools are used to engage, educate, and inspire communities. I learned that songs about work, protest signs, and spoken-word pieces are more than just creative expressions: they are acts of resistance and solidarity.
Before this internship, my knowledge of labor unions was limited to historical events and policy discussions. However, working with the Foundation showed me how vibrant, creative, and ongoing the movement truly is. I was especially inspired by the way music, art, and storytelling are used to keep labor struggles visible and to unite people across different backgrounds. Seeing the emotional and political impact of this cultural work helped me realize that labor rights are not just a political issue, they're deeply human.
Through meetings and research, I also developed practical skills in communication, archiving, and public engagement. I improved my ability to organize information, manage project deadlines, and contribute meaningfully in a professional nonprofit setting. Importantly, I learned to approach my work with cultural sensitivity and a greater sense of social justice. Overall, this internship helped shape my understanding of the labor movement’s legacy and its continued relevance today. It strengthened my commitment to advocacy through cultural work and deepened my belief in the value of preserving grassroots stories. I leave this internship more informed, inspired, and eager to contribute to causes that align creativity with social change.
Mircy Coca Soriano is a junior at Union College in Schenectady, NY. She interned at LHF during the Spring 2025 semester.