A New Era for Economic Opportunity: USMCC Chairman Doug Mayorga Meets with U.S. Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer

A New Era for Economic Opportunity: USMCC Chairman Doug Mayorga Meets with U.S. Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer

WASHINGTON, D.C. — February 6, 2026 — In a landmark move for international labor relations and minority business growth, Doug Mayorga, Chairman of the U.S. Minority Chamber of Commerce (UMCC), was received today by the Honorable Lori Chavez-DeRemer, U.S. Secretary of Labor, at the Department of Labor headquarters.

The high-level meeting took place as part of the “Invest in America 2026” initiative, focusing on bridging the labor gap in the United States while creating life-changing economic pathways for workers in Latin America.

Doug Mayorga and Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer
Chairman Doug Mayorga and U.S. Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer discussing the “Invest in America 2026” initiative at the Department of Labor.

Building Bridges: The 10,000-Worker Initiative

The centerpiece of the discussion was the official labor certification for the U.S. Minority Chamber of Commerce. This authorization aims to pave the way for a transformative program: bringing 10,000 qualified workers from Honduras and Colombia to the United States to support critical industry needs.

Key highlights of the proposal include:

  • Target Workforce: 10,000 skilled individuals from Honduras and Colombia.
  • Program Duration: 6-month specialized work terms.
  • Economic Impact: Competitive compensation targeted at $3,500 USD per month.
  • Mission: Providing U.S. businesses with reliable labor while boosting the economies of partner nations.

“Un privilegio haber sido recibido por la honorable Secretaria del Trabajo de Estados Unidos, Lori Chávez-DeRemer… Ha llegado una nueva Era para bendecir a los pueblos de América.”

— Doug Mayorga, Chairman of UMCC

UMCC Delegation from Honduras and Colombia
Chairman Mayorga alongside the official delegation from Honduras and Colombia following a successful session on labor certification and international work programs.

International Collaboration in Action

The Chairman was joined by a select delegation of leaders from Honduras and Colombia, who participated in the official visit to the federal building. The presence of these delegates underscores the Chamber’s commitment to a “boots-on-the-ground” approach to international trade and labor.

The UMCC continues to lead the charge in ensuring that minority-owned businesses have the workforce they need to thrive in the 2026 economic landscape, fostering a spirit of cooperation that spans the entire continent.