The Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters was a landmark labor union in Black history. Established in 1925, it was the first labor union led by African Americans to receive a charter from the American Federation of Labor. The union was founded by A. Philip Randolph, a prominent civil rights leader, and labor organizer, and its primary goal was to improve working conditions and wages for African American workers employed as porters on the luxury Pullman Company trains.

The Pullman Company was a major employer of African American men during the early 20th century, but the porters were subjected to low pay, long hours, and discrimination within the company. The Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters fought for better wages, shorter work hours, and improved working conditions for its members.

Despite facing opposition and resistance from both the Pullman Company and white labor leaders, the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters persevered and eventually achieved a monumental victory in 1937 when they signed a historic agreement with the Pullman Company, becoming the first African American labor union to secure a collective bargaining agreement with a major corporation.

The Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters played a significant role in the larger labor and civil rights movements in the United States, and its success paved the way for future advancements in labor rights and equality for African American workers. A. Philip Randolph's leadership of the union also positioned him as a key figure in the civil rights movement, influencing future generations of activists and leaders.