Joel Ayala Almeida, the longstanding leader of the Federation of Workers at the Service of the State (FSTSE), passed away early on Monday, January 27, 2025, at the age of 78, due to health complications associated with his age. The announcement of his death came through the FSTSE, which confirmed he lost his life at a hospital in Mexico City.
Rosa Icela Rodríguez, Secretary of Governance, expressed her condolences on social media, saying, "Lamentamos profundamente el fallecimiento del presidente del Comité Ejecutivo Nacional de la FSTSE, Joel Ayala Almeida. Nuestro abrazo y solidaridad con su familia y compañeros trabajadores al servicio del Estado.” Her message reflected the deep sorrow felt across the political spectrum, underscoring Ayala's significant contributions to labor rights and representation.
Born on December 20, 1946, in San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora, Ayala Almeida had dedicated nearly three decades of his life to the FSTSE. His role as Secretary General of the organization began back in 1998, and he was re-elected for another term just last December, highlighting the vast respect he commanded among the various unions affiliated with the FSTSE.
Before his time at the helm of the FSTSE, Ayala Almeida was not new to political life. He obtained his degree in Economics from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) and engaged actively as both deputy and senator for the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) on multiple occasions. His experience included notable legislative roles across different periods, becoming well-known not only within syndicalism but also as a political figure.
Under his leadership, the FSTSE achieved significant gains for public sector workers. Among his most notable accomplishments was securing 134,000 base positions for members of the National Workers Union of the Health Secretariat, ensuring workers received the legal protections and social security benefits they deserved. Even with these successes, Ayala Almeida acknowledged more work remained, stating as of November 2024, over 80,000 workers still awaited formal job regularization.
The condolences extended by Rosa Icela Rodríguez were echoed by other prominent politicians, including Olga Sánchez Cordero, former Secretary of Governance. Cordero stated, "Tuve la oportunidad de trabajar de cerca con Joel Ayala cuando fui secretaria de Gobernación, una gran persona y líder, lamento su pérdida y mis más sentidas condolencias para su familia, amigos y compañeros del #FSTSE.” This personal sentiment emphasized the impact Ayala Almeida had, not just on workers, but on those who had collaborated with him politically.
Ayala Almeida’s legacy as a labor leader is characterized by his dedication to improving the lives of public workers, advocating for their rights, and pushing for necessary reforms. His advancement of social justice within the workforce will resonate for years to come, providing inspiration for those who continue the fight for labor rights.
His passing not only marks the end of an era for the FSTSE but also highlights the void his leadership leaves within Mexico's broader labor movement. The union, representing more than 80,000 public-sector workers, now faces the challenge of carrying on his vision and commitment to worker protections and rights.
Joel Ayala Almeida's life and work will be remembered by many, and as tributes pour in, the labor community reflects on the tremendous contributions made by this respected figure. His funeral arrangements have not yet been announced, but many anticipate significant gatherings honoring his memory and achievements.