The Histadrut, or General Federation of Laborers in the Land of Israel, is Israel’s unified trade union and workers organization. Founded in Haifa at the Technion, the Histadrut, in both the pre-state and Israeli periods, provides social and financial benefits to laborers and is likewise a major owner of businesses, industries, and financial institutions. Initially under the leadership of David Gurion (1921-1935), the Histadrut still plays an active role in the Israeli economy and labor movement today. In 2009, the Histadrut passes a contentious movement allowing migrant workers in Israel to join and receive benefits.