Bangladeshi-American Labor Leader MAF Misbah Named Among New York’s Labor Power 100

NEW YORK — Bangladeshi-American labor leader MAF Misbah Uddin has once again been named among New York State’s 100 most influential labor leaders in “The 2026 Labor Power 100,” an annual list published by City & State New York.

The list recognizes influential figures who have made significant contributions to the labor movement, workers’ organizing, public service and community leadership across New York.

In its profile, City & State New York describes MAF Misbah Uddin as a “trailblazer” in New York’s South Asian labor movement, highlighting his efforts to organize workers of South Asian heritage and his leadership in advancing the labor movement.

Misbah served as the first Bangladeshi president of New York City’s Local 1407. He also serves as treasurer of the union’s parent organization, District Council 37 (DC 37), one of New York City’s major public-sector unions.

According to information published by City & State, Misbah was appointed to the New York City Districting Commission in 2022. During his tenure, he played an important role in the redistricting process that led to the creation of Brooklyn’s first Asian-majority district.

In 2024, New York Governor Kathy Hochul appointed him to the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Commission, expanding his involvement in representing and advocating for New York’s Asian American and Pacific Islander communities beyond his work in the labor movement.

Misbah is also the founder of the Alliance of South Asian American Labor (A-S-A-L), an organization dedicated to advancing workers’ and community rights, developing leadership among South Asian Americans and encouraging greater participation in the labor movement.

He currently serves as President Emeritus of A-S-A-L.

His continued leadership in New York’s labor movement, combined with his involvement in city administration and advocacy for the Asian American community, has made his inclusion in the 2026 Labor Power 100 particularly significant.

The recognition highlights the growing influence of South Asian and Bangladeshi-American leadership in New York’s labor, civic and community affairs.