In Loving Memory of Arthur A. Coia
Former LIUNA General President, Tireless Advocate for Working People, and Visionary Labor Leader
With deep sorrow and abiding respect, we mourn the passing of Arthur A. Coia, former General President of the Laborers’ International Union of North America (LIUNA). Arthur’s life was marked by unwavering dedication to the labor movement, a powerful legacy of advocacy, and a lifelong commitment to dignity and justice for working men and women.
A true union man through and through, Arthur Coia led with vision, courage, and conviction. Under his leadership, LIUNA saw tremendous growth—not only in membership and strength but in the values that define who we are: unity, solidarity, and an unbreakable will to protect workers’ rights.
Arthur’s presidency was a transformative era for LIUNA. He brought a sharp legal mind, tireless energy, and strategic foresight to every challenge. His work expanded the union’s reach across North America, increased political engagement on behalf of labor, and fortified protections that have allowed countless laborers to build not just careers—but lives of stability, respect, and opportunity.
Arthur understood that being a union leader was about more than contracts and negotiations—it was about people. He believed in the dignity of work and the power of organizing to lift families and communities. He saw every member as a brother or sister and never lost sight of what was at the heart of the labor movement: working people striving for better lives.
His impact is still felt in every region, every local, and every hand that carries a union card. From improved safety standards to strengthened pensions, from expanded training programs to political empowerment, Arthur Coia helped shape the future of LIUNA in ways that will resonate for generations.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Arthur was known for his charisma, his eloquence, and his deep sense of loyalty to those he served. He was a mentor to many, a powerful voice in Washington and beyond, and a lifelong champion of the underdog. His legacy is not just written in the contracts he helped negotiate or the offices he held—it lives on in every Laborer who has been empowered, protected, and uplifted by the union he helped strengthen.
To his family, friends, and brothers and sisters in labor: we extend our heartfelt condolences. We honor Arthur’s life not only by remembering his accomplishments but by continuing the fight he believed in so deeply.
As we reflect on his life, let us remember that Arthur A. Coia’s story is part of our story—the story of the Laborers’ Union, and of a movement that still stands strong because of his vision and sacrifice.
Rest in power, Brother Coia.
Your legacy lives on in every Laborer, every jobsite, every march, and every voice raised in solidarity.