Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Atlantic Theater Workers Vote to Join IATSE
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
The 178 crew members of the Atlantic Theater Company voted to join the Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE), becoming the first group to form a union with IATSE at a major nonprofit theater off-Broadway. The workers include crew members in carpentry, electrics, scenic, props, audio, video, hair and makeup, and wardrobe.
“This is a monumental step forward towards improving pay, conditions, and stability for freelance theatre workers in New York City and across the country,” said Stage Carpenter Michael Stevens. “I’m immensely grateful to my fellow workers for supporting the effort to unionize the Atlantic, as well as to the organizing committee for our shared, tireless commitment to this campaign. We look forward to bargaining for the benefits—such as healthcare—that we all deserve!”
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 02/22/2024 - 10:06Labor Unions Build the Middle Class: The Working People Weekly List
Every week, we bring you a roundup of the top news and commentary about issues and events important to working families. Here’s the latest edition of the Working People Weekly List.
Labor Leaders Condemn GOP Fiscal Commission as Anti-Worker 'Power Grab': “A coalition of U.S. labor leaders spoke out forcefully on Thursday against the Republican-led push for a ‘fiscal commission,’ denouncing the proposal as an attack on Social Security, Medicare, and other programs that tens of millions of current and retired workers depend on to meet basic needs. Liz Shuler, president of the AFL-CIO, said in a statement that a fiscal commission is a ‘terrible idea that would push older Americans into poverty, take away people's healthcare, and end up costing the government more.’”
Kamala Harris Touts Strength of Labor Unions to Build the Middle Class: “Unions boost pay 10% to 15% for members and improve fringe benefits, bolstering the middle class and economy, a U.S. Department of the Treasury report released Monday said. ‘Union workers make our middle class and our entire economy more strong,’ Vice President Kamala Harris said Monday on a call outlining the administration's efforts to support unions. ‘During this summer of worker strikes and organizing, we're seeing unprecedented public support for unions as a critical pathway to grow the middle class and provide opportunities for working people to thrive,’ Liz Shuler, president of the AFL-CIO, told CNBC.”
USW International President David McCall Issues Statement After Cleveland Cliff Facility Goes Idle: “The United Steelworkers (USW) has issued a statement from International President David McCall after Cleveland Cliffs announced an indefinite idling of operations at its Weirton tin plate facility: ‘Weirton Steelworkers can compete with anyone on a level playing field, but the ITC’s recent negative determination continues to leave our markets vulnerable to foreign dumping. The current market for tin mill products has already been decimated by over 50% penetration of illegally dumped foreign tinplate. Now, with the idling of tinplate production in Weirton, unfair trade is one step closer to choking out our domestic industry entirely. The USW will work with Cleveland-Cliffs to provide as many options to our members as possible, as well as continue our fight against the unfair trade practices that continue to cost good, community-sustaining jobs and threaten our economy.’”
Number of Striking U.S. Workers More Than Doubled Last Year, Study Shows: “The number of striking workers in the U.S. more than doubled last year due to massive work stoppages carried out by autoworkers, nurses and Hollywood writers and actors, according to a study released by Cornell University on Thursday. The total number of striking workers climbed 141% in 2023, amounting to nearly 540,000 workers who walked off the job, the report found.”
UFCW Local Leads Fight to Win Washington's Strongest Tenant Protections: “Grocery and retail workers helped win the strongest tenant protections in Washington state last November for the 100,000 renters in the city of Tacoma. First we had to beat the mayor’s and city council’s attempt to bring a competing watered-down ballot measure. And then we had to overcome a vicious and deceptive landlord opposition that smashed all previous political spending records in Tacoma. ‘We’ve created incredible goodwill in the community just as we gear up for a tough contract fight,’ said Michael Whalen, who helped initiate the campaign as a dairy clerk and shop steward at Fred Meyer.”
Here’s Why Thousands of Flight Attendants Are Threatening to Strike: “With a participation rate of roughly 93%, Alaska flight attendants represented by the Association of Flight Attendants (AFA) voted 99.48% in favor of authorizing a strike, amid the flight attendants’ negotiations with Alaska Airlines for a new contract.”
No Matter What Happens Next, Unionizing at ZeniMax Worked: “Not very long ago, I was one of the thousands of video game workers feeling gnawed on by this competitive, volatile industry. It felt like things were quickly becoming unsustainable. But something happened. During this round of layoffs, I felt something in addition to the familiar sadness and dread: I felt empowered. When I first joined ZeniMax in 2022 as a part-time QA contractor, it was immediately apparent that there were cultural and systemic issues in the department and in the industry. The pay was scandalously low, and there were no clear pathways to professional development or promotion.”
Coalition of Black Trade Unionists President: Choice Is Democracy or Dictatorship: “The choice in the 2024 general election is between democracy and dictatorship, not just between Democratic President Joe Biden and presumed Republican nominee Donald Trump, the White House denizen whom Biden beat four years ago. So says Terry Melvin, president of the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists and the most outspoken speaker to address the Government Employees (AFGE) Legislative Conference in D.C. on Feb. 12. The key issue for attendees at the legislative conference was a 7.4% pay raise for federal workers in fiscal 2025, which begins October 1. All the speakers, led by union President Everett Kelley, pushed that cause. Delegates planned a Feb. 13 rally plus lobbying on Capitol Hill about that. The outlook for it is murky. ‘It’s getting really impossible to determine what this Congress would do,’ Kelley admitted. ‘Now we’re listening to these little echoes’ of Trump and Trumpite goals. Biden seeks a 5.2% hike.”
New Orleans Nurses Fight for a New Union as Hospitals Merge and Revenues Soar: “Last fall, Tujague and her colleagues had finally had enough of what they described as persistent undersupplying and short-staffing. In October, nurses at University Medical Center filed for a union election. Two months later, on Dec. 9, over 80% voted to join the National Nurses Organizing Committee/National Nurses United (NNOC/NNU), the country’s largest nurses’ union. The election was Louisiana’s largest National Labor Relations Board election in nearly 30 years. With the vote, University Medical Center became Louisiana’s first unionized private-sector hospital. About 4% of Louisiana’s workers are unionized, compared to about 10% nationwide.”
Disneyland's Character Performers Look to Form Union Under Actors' Equity Association: “Workers who bring Disneyland’s beloved characters to life—including Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck and Cinderella—are looking to unionize. Labor organizers announced the campaign Tuesday, saying performers want better safety conditions and scheduling policies to help keep the magic alive for visitors. While most of the more than 35,000 workers at the Disneyland Resort already have labor unions, about 1,700 performers and character actors do not.”
DreamWorks Animation, Flying Bark Productions Workers Take Steps Toward Unionizing: “The Animation Guild is organizing production workers at DreamWorks Animation and at Flying Bark Productions. The guild (IATSE Local 839) sent a letter to DreamWorks Animation on Feb. 7 and filed for recognition with the National Labor Relations Board on Feb. 9 to represent 162 production workers at the studio.”
Why Workers and Employers Both Need Paid Family Leave: “Workers across the country need the same peace of mind while recovering from surgery or sickness. They need time to care for ill loved ones, bond with infants, or welcome other new family members without risking their jobs or forfeiting the income needed to keep their households afloat. And they need to be empowered to escape domestic violence, ensure family stability during a service member’s deployment, or confront other emergencies without throwing themselves at the mercy of employers.”
Striking Hotel Workers Reach Contract Agreements with 5 More Hotels in Months-Long Fight: “Five more Southern California hotels have reached tentative labor agreements covering about 650 workers, the latest settlements in a months-long strike that at times has been marked by violence. In all, Unite Here Local 11 has signed tentative agreements with 34 out of some 60 properties in Los Angeles and Orange counties initially targeted by intermittent walkouts beginning in July. The union has said it is the largest hotel strike in modern U.S. history, involving some 15,000 cooks, housekeepers, dishwashers, servers, porters and front desk agents.”
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 02/21/2024 - 15:16Black History Month Profiles: Quenell Jones
This year, for Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Quenell Jones of the Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE).
In 2019, Quenell Jones was selected as a mentee for the American Society of Cinematographers, a program designed for working professionals with an interest in pursuing a career as a cinematographer. He is the eastern region diversity committee chair and a member of the International Cinematographers Guild (ICG) National Inclusion Committee. "With a grandmother a part of the teachers union, I had a visual representation of what it meant to be in a union. Being in IATSE, I am able to transform my life in a positive way." He is a New York-based camera operator and has been a proud ICG member for 18 years.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 02/21/2024 - 10:35Service & Solidarity Spotlight: UMWA Welcomes Logan County Commission Office Staff as Newest Members
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
The Mine Workers (UMWA) announced that the workers at the Logan County Commission voted to be represented by the UMWA.
“I want to welcome the newest members of the UMWA and congratulate them for their decision to join our union,” said International President Cecil Roberts. “Their decision places them on a path toward enhanced job security and the fair representation they deserve on the job.”
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 02/21/2024 - 10:23Black History Month Profiles: Jerry T. Jordan
This year, for Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Jerry T. Jordan of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT).
Jerry T. Jordan is president of the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers (PFT), AFT Local 3. Jordan received his degree in education and Spanish from Temple University and began teaching high school Spanish and English as a Second Language in the Philadelphia school district. In 1987, he joined PFT as a district staff representative, representing teachers and support staff in 50 schools and school district offices. He was elected legislative representative for PFT’s executive board and, in 1989, was appointed special assistant to the PFT president and was elected general vice president by the members. He was first elected to a four-year term as PFT president in February 2008. He is a vice president of the Philadelphia Central Labor Council and the Pennsylvania AFL-CIO.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 02/20/2024 - 10:31Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Houston Landing Workers Form Union After Editor, Star Reporter Fired
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
An overwhelming majority of workers at the nonprofit publication Houston Landing voted to join The NewsGuild-CWA. The workers were proud to have met and even exceeded company targets for impact, page views and engagement time, among others, just eight months after launch. Management’s shock decision to terminate the Landing’s founding editor-in-chief and sole investigative reporter exposed the lack of protections Landing workers have. Some 75% of eligible workers signed union authorization cards, signaling their desire to form the Houston Landing News Guild.
“We will fight to maintain a workplace culture that reflects our core values of transparency, inclusivity and accountability. We will champion editorial representation at the highest levels of company leadership and decision-making,” the Houston Landing News Guild's mission statement said. “Finally, we will uphold the mission of the Landing: to advance democracy through journalism and improve the lives of all Houstonians one story at a time.”
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 02/20/2024 - 10:08Black History Month Profiles: Timothy A. Williams
This year, for Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Timothy A. Williams of the Heat and Frost Insulators.
Timothy Williams started his career in the Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company in 1978. He was also a company owner in Virgina. He became a member of HFIU Local 30 when he relocated to the Syracuse, N.Y., area. He was a proud and dedicated member of the local until he retired in May 2019. In December 2019, Williams' services were called upon once again. He was asked to serve the local as an organizer, a position that he still works in to this day. He is currently taking classes to become an MC3 certified instructor, so that he can better help serve the local and its apprentices.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 02/19/2024 - 10:26Black History Month Profiles: Faye Brooks
This year, for Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Faye Brooks of the Professional Aviation Safety Specialists (PASS).
A 24-year veteran of the Federal Aviation Administration, Faye Brooks specializes in aircraft cabin safety, ensuring that regulations are followed to keep passengers safe onboard. She has been a PASS member for just as long, which has allowed her to invest in her future. Now a union contract representative, she has more of a voice and protects her fellow bargaining unit employees.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 02/16/2024 - 09:55Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Howard County (Maryland) Public Library Employees Vote to Form Union
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Workers for the Howard County Library System in Maryland voted overwhelmingly to join AFSCME. The vote was 151 to 19 in favor of the union. More than 200 workers will be represented by the new unit. The workers are seeking a voice in the decision-making process, fair wages, better job protection, reasonable schedules, adequate staffing, paths to promotion and a safe work environment.
“To me, one of the biggest impacts I’m hoping the union will have is improving communication,” said Eliana Holgate, a children’s instructor and research specialist. “It feels like there’s a disconnect between our leadership and the staff facing the community in the branches. We want our voices to be heard in the decision-making process and better understand decisions made that aren’t explained to staff. We want all staff to be safe and supported.”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 02/16/2024 - 09:49Black History Month Profiles: Sheria Smith
This year, for Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Sheria Smith of AFGE.
Sheria Smith is the president and chief negotiator of AFGE Local 252, which represents approximately 3,000 employees at the Department of Education. She serves on several AFGE committees, including the District 10 Advisory Committee, the Unity Committee and AFGE B.L.A.C.K. Smith is a recipient of AFGE's Woman of Labor award and a 2019 graduate of the Texas AFL-CIO Ruth Ellinger Labor Leaders class.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 02/15/2024 - 10:38Service & Solidarity Spotlight: University of the Arts Faculty in Pennsylvania Ratify First Contract in School’s History
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Faculty at the University of the Arts (UArts) ratified a new contract with a near-unanimous vote. It’s the first contract for faculty in the school’s nearly 150-year history and runs through June 2026. The faculty are represented by United Academics of Philadelphia (UAP), American Federation of Teachers (AFT) Local 9608. The contract includes, on average, 11% wage increases for full-time faculty in the first year and part-time faculty raises of 13%.
“This contract will realize double-digit raises for most faculty at UArts,” said Daniel Pieczkolon, president of the union. “Eighty-five percent of UArts faculty are part-time and have worked at rates well below nearby schools, without benefits or long-term contracts. This is a step in the right direction after three years of stalling from UArts administrators.”
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 02/15/2024 - 10:19Fair Pay Is Worth Fighting For: What Working People Are Doing This Week
Welcome to our regular feature, a look at what the various AFL-CIO unions and other working family organizations are doing across the country and beyond. The labor movement is big and active—here's a look at the broad range of activities we're engaged in this week.
Actors' Equity:
Equity members create the Broadway hits of the future in development sessions, and they deserve a fair contract. Share your support of these actors and stage managers: https://t.co/PF9eKYCzs0 pic.twitter.com/CYX2xfLNzf
— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) February 13, 2024
AFGE:
Fair pay is worth fighting for!
And federal workers know how to fight💪#AFGERising pic.twitter.com/rv3S1ggNY1
— AFGE (@AFGENational) February 13, 2024
AFSCME:
ASEA member Crystal Basnaw has dedicated 14 years to bringing comfort to elders at The Fairbanks Pioneer Home. Discover how she earned our Never Quit Service Award. https://t.co/O4hJs3MOcJ
— AFSCME (@AFSCME) February 12, 2024
Alliance for Retired Americans:
Social Security cuts are deeply unpopular, because voters know that's not what we need.
It's time to make the wealthy pay their fair share so we can expand benefits: https://t.co/8R4amUR8uO https://t.co/URWfOsixta
— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) February 13, 2024
Amalgamated Transit Union:
ATU-endorsed Tom Suozzi wins! #ATURidinWithSuozzi pic.twitter.com/EC5iCDWbX0
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) February 14, 2024
American Federation of Musicians:
Bravo! This might have been the best opener for the #SuperBowl. An orchestra of 60 musicians from Local 369 (Las Vegas). The session was recorded under an AFM union contract. #unionmade #1u@MusiciansVegas AFM Local 369 https://t.co/cXrreTnOov
— AFM (@The_AFM) February 12, 2024
American Federation of Teachers:
Roses are red
Fights for #SafeStaffing are not in vain
Health professionals are winning
With the #CodeRed campaign!#HealthPolicyValentines @AFTHealthcare #CodeRed https://t.co/pcIKrvKXRV
— AFT (@AFTunion) February 14, 2024
American Postal Workers Union:
The fifth COLA increase under the 2021-2024 Collective Bargaining Agreement has been announced. https://t.co/fI9pdk1olS
— The American Postal Workers Union - APWU (@APWUnational) February 13, 2024
Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:
Corporate greed won’t fly! Flight Attendants are on the picket lines today demanding fair contracts now! #FlightAttendantsFightBack #ContractNow pic.twitter.com/aapAtZVVTh
— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) February 13, 2024
Boilermakers:
HUGE! 👋 to BUSTING the union-busting law. Congratulations Michigan! Organizing for change works ✊ pic.twitter.com/FCCzhFg5hV
— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) February 14, 2024
Bricklayers:
Happy Valentine’s Day, brothers and sisters! #unionstrong #1u #ValentinesDay #valentinesday2024
graphic via @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/jPATrELl8q
— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) February 14, 2024
Communications Workers of America:
Shout out to all the CWAers who helped make this victory happen! https://t.co/boN7nZBo3g
— CWA (@CWAUnion) February 14, 2024
Department for Professional Employees:
Dreamworks animation professionals are joining together in union with @animationguild! https://t.co/WxLNVgkWIg
— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) February 14, 2024
Electrical Workers:
Last week, after years of open negotiations with NECA, the IBEW came to an agreement to raise the NEBF benefit. That means more financial security for you and your family. Learn more: https://t.co/iEzS8de2pd pic.twitter.com/swlzLxq8DO
— IBEW (@IBEW) February 13, 2024
Heat and Frost Insulators:
This short video will appeal to someone looking to start a career where they have a great career and a great retirement as an HFIAW member. Post this video on social media to recruit more people to your apprenticeship program https://t.co/ZdtdOW8muT pic.twitter.com/76BW2smDp6
— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) February 14, 2024
Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:
Across the country, flight attendants came together to demand fair treatment and better working conditions. LCLAA National Team and Chapters supported a nuestros hermanos y hermanas tripulantes de cabinas en todo el país! @lclaalosangeles @TWU556 pic.twitter.com/miYSL96ZLz
— LCLAA (@LCLAA) February 13, 2024
Labor Heritage Foundation:
@BillFletcherJr reads from his mystery novel The Man Who Changed Colors @busboysandpoets Takoma for the LHF Bread & Roses series pic.twitter.com/e3tYVKbqq8
— Labor Heritage (@LaborHeritage1) February 14, 2024
Laborers:
#BlackHistoryMonth continues and so does our celebration of Black Americans’ contributions to #unionpower and #LIUNA!
Today, meet Kenneth Woods, from Local 1421 in Boston, MA. pic.twitter.com/TpToqAK5oI
— LIUNA (@LIUNA) February 14, 2024
Machinists:
We won't stop calling out @apple for its disgusting union busting 😤.
If you support workers like @acoreunion and their right to organize, this is the petition you need to sign ⬇️ https://t.co/bMrEEvVg1q
— Machinists Union (@MachinistsUnion) February 14, 2024
Metal Trades Department:
A $95 billion measure being weighed by the U.S. Senate includes $3.3 billion for the nation’s public shipyards, funding that would support dry dock projects in Kittery and at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard. https://t.co/dqF3IY82uS
— Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) February 11, 2024
National Association of Letter Carriers:
Delivering mail on a cold day can bring hazards that may sneak up on you. One of those hazards is hypothermia, which can happen when your body temperature reaches dangerously low levels. Read this thread to make sure you know the risks and signs of this cold-weather threat. ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/BJl5oT8gIq
— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) February 13, 2024
National Day Laborer Organizing Network:
❤️ Excluded workers care for us. Now it’s our turn to care for them.
This Valentine’s Day, show your appreciation for excluded workers by standing up for meaningful access to the safety net.
We deserve a New York where workers are #ExcludedNoMore. ❤️
Via @FEWCoalition pic.twitter.com/yXLf7hibye
— NDLON (@NDLON) February 14, 2024
National Domestic Workers Alliance:
We’re on the ground with @BlackWorkers215 in Philly right now advocating for the budget we need to ensure all workers’ rights are protected and enforced! pic.twitter.com/HHS7NLOC4s
— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) February 14, 2024
National Federation of Federal Employees:
NFFE is proud to announce that National Business Representative Gerald “Jerry” McCarty has joined the Machinists Union as a Special Representative in the IAM Organizing Department. https://t.co/gH3MrOBuPz
— NFFE (@NFFE_Union) February 9, 2024
National Nurses United:
Our fight to win nurse-to-patient ratios is a global fight! It's not just a problem in the U.S. — nurses all across the world suffer from unsafe patient assignments.
We were proud to stand in solidarity with @infirmiersnpi last week to discuss the global need for #SafeStaffing. pic.twitter.com/geHPs0y3z2
— NationalNursesUnited (@NationalNurses) February 12, 2024
NFL Players Association:
Explore the workforce outside the NFL.
Active players, now's your chance to explore industries such as TV broadcasting, business, technology, nonprofits, and more with the NFLPA Career Experiences program.
Sign up here to reserve your seat: https://t.co/iZOAGI8O40 pic.twitter.com/xfF2ogZeWM
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) February 14, 2024
North America's Building Trades Unions:
The Biden Administration has invested nearly $15 BILLION in public infrastructure and clean energy projects throughout Pennsylvania.
These are historic investments that will rebuild communities, stimulate the economy, and launch careers ✊
🔗: https://t.co/nlid4wzGcK pic.twitter.com/AjT3os4Dy1
— The Building Trades (@NABTU) February 13, 2024
Office and Professional Employees:
A longtime steward with a 40+ year career at NW Natural in Newport, Oregon, Kayleen Williams has spent her working life advocating and supporting others. We are proud to highlight her this #BlackHistoryMonth & celebrate her decades of service to the labor movement with Local 11. pic.twitter.com/5gJ4y5cec3
— OPEIU | #UnionStrong (@OPEIU) February 13, 2024
Painters and Allied Trades:
Our union fights every day to end the illegal practice of wage theft by employers and make sure construction workers are paid every dollar they earned.
Thank you to @msainat1 for highlighting our union’s work to ensure tradesworkers get what they’re owed. https://t.co/G4MUkIjbyZ
— IUPAT (@GoIUPAT) February 14, 2024
Plasterers and Cement Masons:
Brothers & Sisters, as we enter another political season it is imperative that you prepare to vote for the candidate that best represents you & yours. Every voice & vote matters, especially #OPCMIA members. Make sure your voice is heard & register to vote before election day! pic.twitter.com/8ifMnvDQ82
— OPCMIA International (@opcmiaintl) February 14, 2024
Professional Aviation Safety Specialists:
Thanks @FAA_Mike for meeting with PASS Region V Vice President Tamara Rose at NW Mountain Regional Office today in Seattle. Keeping lines of communications open while we are negotiating 2 contracts with FAA critical. #aviationsafety #publicservice #unionsolidarity pic.twitter.com/v6HA3dJSoe
— PASS (@PASSNational) February 12, 2024
Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:
"Ensuring the workers who help us provide for our families can go to work each day and return home exactly as they left is a basic requirement that cannot be overlooked." - RWDSU President @sappelbaum https://t.co/f61L13avWl
— RWDSU (@RWDSU) February 14, 2024
Roofers and Waterproofers:
Construction in Cleveland is booming, and more women are gaining entry into lucrative building trades careers thanks to Cleveland's building trades unions. Share and help inspire someone you know start a career in the trades! #WomenRoof #WomenintheTrades https://t.co/siIgVFkKYq
— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) February 14, 2024
SAG-AFTRA:
🎙️ #ICYMI: #SagAftraMember Ron Perlman, SAG-AFTRA NED @DuncanCI and other industry leaders discussed the future of the entertainment industry during the @knxnews Town Hall, “Streaming Wars: The End of Content's Golden Age?”
Watch here: https://t.co/dACPqNxqm1 pic.twitter.com/oBex6ZW0lQ
— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) February 14, 2024
Solidarity Center:
Listen to @NazmaAkter73, one of the fantastic #union leaders who gathered for a reunion of our Global Labor Leadership Initiative (GLLI), speak about how she was “born a union member” and gained her passion for protecting #workerrights, especially #womenworkers, at an early age. pic.twitter.com/frAdmXL4lX
— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) February 13, 2024
The NewsGuild-CWA:
"Withholding our labor is essential to making sure the boss knows we have a seat at the table," says @newsguild president @gaufre
In the last two weeks, journalists at 24+ newsrooms have walked out over layoffs, budget cuts & expired contracts
Listen ⬇️https://t.co/t7vPVLVWhY
— NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) February 14, 2024
Theatrical Stage Employees:
BREAKING: Crewmembers covering carpentry, electric, props, audio, wardrobe, and hair/makeup for the off-Broadway musical “Titanique” are set to join IATSE! 1/2 https://t.co/q5uSflTck3
— IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) February 14, 2024
Transport Workers Union:
Lyn Montgomery, President of @TWU556 representing Southwest Airlines flight attendants, said their work is getting harder. “Flying these days is not fun. It’s chaotic. It’s crowded. We’re late, (flights are) delayed. We are tired and exhausted.” https://t.co/sPuSxc5EMQ
— TWU (@transportworker) February 14, 2024
Transportation Trades Department:
Flight attendants brought the heat at DCA! ✊#FlightAttendantsFightBack@TTDAFLCIO President Greg Regan joined our union siblings out on the picket line this morning to demand a fair #ContractNow! #PayUsOrCHAOS pic.twitter.com/xJ28LbOgoG
— TTD | America's Transportation Unions (@TTDAFLCIO) February 13, 2024
UAW:
Bosses always use the same tired playbook to try and stop the working class from organizing: Fear, Uncertainty, and Division.
But scare tactics aren’t going to work this time. Workers are standing up and won’t be denied their union.#StandUpUAW pic.twitter.com/fTQ6T94mzD
— UAW (@UAW) February 12, 2024
Union Label and Service Trades Department:
Bloomberg Law reports that unions have increased their headcount for 3 successive years. As well, it reports that more than half a million workers engaged in union-initiated strikes in 2023. The labor movement is growing! https://t.co/2f6OzYNwHB
— Union Label Dept. (@ULSTD_AFLCIO) February 14, 2024
UNITE HERE:
"I AM Story," a podcast by @AFSCME President Lee Saunders about the historic Memphis Sanitation Strike, is up for an NAACP Image Award—and you can help it win!
Cast your vote today:
🔗 https://t.co/xu1kWuPV3s
— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) February 12, 2024
United Food and Commercial Workers:
From couch to field, thank UFCW members for #SBLVIII! @ufcw1546 workers are responsible for crafting the leather for every official NFL football & grocery workers nationwide are ready to assist in prepping your #SuperBowlSunday spread! pic.twitter.com/qCdkP3KTKH
— UFCW (@UFCW) February 11, 2024
United Steelworkers:
ICYMI: Make sure to check out our latest Solidarity Works podcast episode that features two USW members who are preserving the historic Maxo Vanka murals in Pittsburgh!💪 ❤️ Listen at https://t.co/vpow8quTLT or wherever you access your favorite podcasts. #USW #Everybodysunion #1u pic.twitter.com/1l9gSGy5rl
— United Steelworkers #EverybodysUnion (@steelworkers) February 10, 2024
United Students Against Sweatshops:
USAS has developed organizers and ran successful campaigns at over 150 campuses for nearly 30 years. In order to continue this work, join the sustainers program using this link as we continue building and fighting for working class power! https://t.co/w7mPOJB98o pic.twitter.com/7azHNbQ175
— USAS (@USAS) February 12, 2024
Utility Workers:
The choice is clear: invest in disaster-resilient water infrastructure now or pay the price later.https://t.co/cyQ5TLLrdd pic.twitter.com/DLKf9OjW7l
— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) February 14, 2024
Writers Guild of America East:
Join us for a virtual informational session explaining the ins and outs of writing services being included in the New York State Film Tax Credit Program.
Tuesday, February 27
2-3pm ET
via Zoom
RSVP: https://t.co/NRIwip68od pic.twitter.com/la9NzEgOiR
— Writers Guild of America East (@WGAEast) February 13, 2024
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 02/14/2024 - 10:46Black History Month Profiles: James Allrich
This year, for Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is James Allrich of the American Federation of School Administrators (AFSA).
It took James Allrich 15 attempts to be appointed a principal, but in the end, he was named Maryland’s Principal of the Year by the National Association of Secondary School Principals and a Washington Post Principal of the Year finalist. His leadership skills had been long on display. Still, “it was hard to become a principal because of my looks,” he says, referring to his hair locs and his overall style.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 02/14/2024 - 10:30Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Restaurant Workers in Kentucky Join UFCW Local 227
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Workers at two restaurants in Louisville, Kentucky, recently joined United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 227. More than 20 workers at Feast BBQ and more than 15 workers at Royals Hot Chicken are employed as front and back of house service crew, dishwashers, cooks and shift leaders. The workers are concerned about insufficient wages and scheduling, and poor treatment by management.
“We are excited to welcome workers from Feast BBQ and Royals Hot Chicken to the labor movement,” said Local 227 President Bob Blair. “Despite stall tactics from their employer, these workers stood together and won their union. Together, we will negotiate a great union contract that will help to raise restaurant industry standards for workers in our city.”
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 02/14/2024 - 10:02Solidarity with Flight Attendants: In the States Roundup
It's time once again to take a look at the ways working people are making progress in the states. Click on any of the links to follow the state federations on X (formerly Twitter).
Arizona AFL-CIO:
Our #DayofAction is 1 week away 🙌
Please RSVP to join our wonderful workshops and hear from our special guest speaker, Executive Secretary-Treasurer of the @CaliforniaLabor
RSVP: https://t.co/49VJQklXKI pic.twitter.com/4NI9AwplLl
— Arizona AFL-CIO (@ArizonaAFLCIO) February 12, 2024
California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:
Up and down the entire state, hundreds of union members showed up and showed out for Labor endorsed candidates this weekend. From the frontlines of the picket to the front door of voters, Labor leads the way! 🗳️✊#VOTELABOR pic.twitter.com/IDMRJegYyQ
— California Labor Federation (@CaliforniaLabor) February 12, 2024
Connecticut AFL-CIO:
Workers at Zen Leaf Dispensary in Waterbury voted unanimously to ratify their union contract – the first union dispensary contract in Connecticut! Read more: https://t.co/4JdWHEVVoQ #UnionYes #1u pic.twitter.com/hCbLWyVs9Z
— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) February 9, 2024
Florida AFL-CIO:
Not one thing in here that reduces costs, increases wages, or improves the lives of Florida's working families.
Nothing. https://t.co/DNDtzX6ijB
— Florida AFL-CIO (@FLAFLCIO) February 12, 2024
Georgia State AFL-CIO:
💼🛩️🤝 From one corner of the world to another, flight attendants keep the industry soaring. This Feb 13, we come together to demand the respect and conditions we deserve. Join us! #UnitedWeFly #FlightAttendantPower #GlobalSolidarity #UnionVoice #1u pic.twitter.com/DvAMZiGKYj
— Georgia AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOGeorgia) February 11, 2024
Illinois AFL-CIO:
Illinois' very own Mike Matejka returned late last week from a trip to the White House as part of a delegation invited to discuss infrastructure investments in Illinois and Indiana.https://t.co/NlPs2QdJ1t pic.twitter.com/uEeA5UYnla
— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) February 12, 2024
Indiana State AFL-CIO:
The wins keep coming! Congratulations to you all! https://t.co/u8Gpd5pDJ7
— Indiana AFL-CIO (@INAFLCIO) February 10, 2024
Kentucky State AFL-CIO:
Commercial Autonomous Vehicles are wrong for KY. These vehicles should not be operated without a properly trained human operator at the wheel.
We must put safety 1st.
Click the link to send a letter now and help us protect our drivers.https://t.co/DAxwQjB4jL
— Kentucky AFL-CIO (@aflcioky) February 8, 2024
Maine AFL-CIO:
The Chamber of Commerce has an intriguing idea to divert corporate lawbreakers into special treatment programs like we do for people with drug addictions & mental illness, but we believe meaningful fines will be a much better deterrent.https://t.co/QayeX8dRM9 #mepolitics
— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) February 9, 2024
Maryland State and D.C. AFL-CIO:
Collective bargaining is a right for all workers! That includes faculty, part-time faculty, post-docs, and grad assistants at the University System of Maryland! pic.twitter.com/aUXPVnucvv
— Maryland State and DC AFL-CIO (@MDDCStateFed) February 7, 2024
Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
Don't forget the register for @thelaborguild's first Spring Session! pic.twitter.com/fGFZNkDWN3
— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) February 12, 2024
Michigan State AFL-CIO:
Anti-union "right to work" is officially no more! Today has been a decade in the making. President Ron Bieber sat down with WILX yesterday to talk about it what this historic repeal means for the labor movement and Michigan workers. https://t.co/vjYDYn8GMM
— Michigan AFL-CIO ✊ (@MIAFLCIO) February 13, 2024
Minnesota AFL-CIO:
Session starts next week! Check out the Minnesota AFL-CIO's 2024 Legislative Priorities! https://t.co/oGoDaShcYO #1u #mnleg pic.twitter.com/Een0uwWE5J
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) February 8, 2024
Missouri AFL-CIO:
Join us on March 6th for our 8th Annual Labor Women's Lobby Day! Details and RSVP info are below. #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/8kKs535uV6
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) February 9, 2024
Nevada State AFL-CIO:
Thank you @NFLPA for standing in solidarity with us in demanding that Allegiant Stadium workers receive fair and just pay for the hard work they provide. ONE JOB SHOULD BE ENOUGH! pic.twitter.com/Oly38nk90a
— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) February 6, 2024
New Hampshire AFL-CIO:
It’s rich that @ABCNHVT is testifying in support of HB 1377-FN, “Right-to-Work,” a bill that aims to stop membership fees from being collected from members…while @ABCNHVT is, in fact, an organization that collects membership fees from its members.
😑#NHPolitics pic.twitter.com/XuXCfKveuV
— New Hampshire AFL-CIO (@NHAFLCIO) February 7, 2024
New York State AFL-CIO:
Labor out in Little Neck for @Tom_Suozzi! Let’s get out the #unionstrong vote! #cd3 @AFSCME @CSEALocal1000 @LIFEDofLABOR @CentralLaborNYC pic.twitter.com/mIb8OjFERu
— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) February 13, 2024
Oregon AFL-CIO:
Unions aren’t just about bargaining contracts, they’re the most effective way for us as workers to stand together, stand up, and speak out against injustice of any kind in any place.
We have greater strength together. pic.twitter.com/IlYXJP3FPI
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) February 12, 2024
Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:
Good for unions. Good for District 140. The PA AFL-CIO is proud to support @Jimfor140 and encourages all members to vote in the February 13th special election. #District140 #SpecialElection #PAAFLCIO #PowerToThePeople #1u #YearOfTheWorker pic.twitter.com/AOVRtskDc1
— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) February 11, 2024
Tennessee AFL-CIO Labor Council:
Our first legislative update of 2024 is now live! Click below for a brief look at some of the bills we're tracking over the next several months as well as what's on our agenda for the week ahead. #TNLeg #1u https://t.co/6WxTQ1CwZ4
— Tennessee AFL-CIO (@tnaflcio) February 12, 2024
Texas AFL-CIO:
@NewtonTeachers' new contract is chock full of major wins:
-12% annual COLA raises
-30% starting pay increase for teacher aides
-District promise to hire 5+ social workers at elementary schools
-20 days district-paid parental leave
Strikes work. Solidarity from TX!
— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) February 9, 2024
Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:
WSLC President April Sims: "(Kairie's) legacy of service includes innovative leadership, the ability to build coalitions, and her dedication to improving the lives of Washington's workers... The WSLC and our affiliated unions wish her well." #1u https://t.co/A9PekQQ4xw
— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) February 9, 2024
Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
Wisconsin Planned Parenthood workers vote to unionize https://t.co/HWkedQHdZT via @CapTimes
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) February 12, 2024
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 02/13/2024 - 10:55Black History Month Profiles: Javonta Gatson
This year, for Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Javonta Gatson of the Bricklayers and Allied Crafts (BAC).
Javonta Gatson of BAC Local 4 joined the union in April 2017, when his second daughter had just been born. “I was struggling before joining the BAC. The union apprenticeship program taught me tile setting skills, helping me pay my bills and made a down payment for my house—not to mention the pension and health care for me and my family,” Gatson said. “The amount of BAC signatory contractors gave me opportunities to work on different jobs. I hope more high school graduates will consider trades jobs as their careers.”
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 02/13/2024 - 10:25Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Graduate Researchers and Postdocs at Caltech Vote to Form Union
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
More than 2,000 graduate researchers and postdoctoral researchers at Caltech voted to join California Institute of Technology Graduate Researchers and Postdocs United-UAW. More than 76% of the graduate students voted for the union, while nearly 83% of postdocs voted in favor of the union. The workers want to secure rights and protections in the workplace, improve compensation and health care, and provide support for academic parents.
“We are incredibly proud of the hard work that led to this overwhelming ‘yes’ vote. We love our research, but too many of us have been made to withstand abuse in the name of passion. Now, we finally have the ability to determine our working conditions, which will improve our research and our lives,” said Nadia Suryawinata, an international graduate student.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 02/13/2024 - 09:16Worker Wins: There Is Power in a Union
Our latest roundup of worker wins includes numerous examples of working people organizing, bargaining and mobilizing for a better life.
CBS News Digital Unionizes with Writers Guild of America East: CBS News Digital writers and editors announced last week they are organizing with the Writers Guild of America East (WGAE) and are calling on management to voluntarily recognize them. The 46-member bargaining unit includes staffers for CBSNews.com as well as CBS’ mobile website, social media channels and news app. WGAE—which already represents their colleagues at CBS News and CBS News Streaming—emphasized that especially amid a recent spike in layoffs and corporate mergers in the news industry, forming a union is critical for journalists to protect themselves and ensure they can keep doing the work they care about. In a statement delivered to management, CBS News Digital Union said, “As a union, we want to ensure that all of CBS News Digital’s staff are protected and treated fairly as we continue on this journey together. We look forward to meeting you at the bargaining table.”Workers at Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin Vote to Unionize: Workers at Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin have voted overwhelmingly in favor of forming a union with the Wisconsin Federation of Nurses & Health Professionals Local 5000 (WFNHP), an affiliate of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT). In a press release from early last month, staff cite wanting to provide their patients with the absolute best care possible as a core motivation for unionizing. WFNHP emphasizes that Planned Parenthood and the labor movement have both faced an onslaught of political attacks historically and presently, and that this organizing victory is a critical step toward fortifying the strength of both. “While health care workers are struggling through unprecedented challenges, many are coming together to improve their lives and better care for their patients by forming a union,” WFNHP President Connie Smith said. “There is power in a union, and our union will continue to use our power to guarantee that all health care is a human right.”Faculty at Philadelphia’s University of the Arts Reach Tentative Agreement, Averting Strike: Faculty at the University of the Arts (UArts) in Philadelphia—members of United Academics of Philadelphia, American Federation of Teachers (AFT) Local 9608—reached a tentative agreement hours before a strike authorization vote that was scheduled for Monday. Over the past three years, unionized faculty have been in negotiations with school administrators for a first contract. Members have organized multiple actions, demonstrations and picket lines in the face of slow-moving bargaining to remind UArts that they were holding firm in their commitment to contract goals, including regarding job security, higher wages and health care. If the tentative agreement is ratified, it will be retroactive from Jan. 1, 2024, and will be in effect through August 2026. “More than three years after first forming, our UArts faculty union has won an agreement that helps establish pay equity, guarantees annual wage increases and builds real power and fairness for arts educators at University of the Arts,” said Bradley Philbert, adjunct professor of critical studies and member of the bargaining committee.IGN Staff Votes to Form Union with The NewsGuild-CWA: Workers at IGN, a popular video game and entertainment media site, have announced that they are organizing with The NewsGuild-CWA (TNG-CWA). The IGN Creators Guild includes editorial and creative workers at the outlet, which is owned by digital media parent company Ziff Davis. There were 87% of the eligible members who signed union authorization cards in hopes of winning better pay, layoff protections, meaningful steps to increase staff diversity and more. “IGN is an incredible place to work! But so many of the talented creators that make it so incredible need more support than they’re currently getting, especially when it comes to competitive pay and adequate time off,” said senior reporter Rebekah Valentine. “And at a time when our industry faces so much uncertainty amid mass layoffs and the rise of generative AI, it’s more important than ever for us to ensure IGN remains a great place to work not just today, but for the future IGN that doesn’t exist yet.”NLRB Ruling Affirms Freedom to Join a Union for Dartmouth Men’s Basketball Team: “Yesterday’s National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) decision affirming the right of Dartmouth men’s basketball team to join a union is game-changing. College athletes put their heart and soul into excelling for their schools, working long, grueling hours and risking bodily injury each and every day. These athletes, like so many other young workers, are standing together to improve their lives. The labor movement stands in firm solidarity with student worker-athletes seeking a voice on the job.” Read AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler’s full statement here.San Diego Signs Construction Labor Agreement with Unions: In a victory for workers in San Diego, the City Council unanimously passed a blanket project labor agreement (PLA) on Wednesday. This agreement reverses a years-old ban on PLAs and will cover projects that have a construction value of at least $5 million for the first two years, and then include projects with a construction value of $1 million or more starting in July 2026. The city is expected to award 111 contracts for construction projects during the current fiscal year that are estimated to cost about $635 million total, providing workers with good union jobs with better wages, safety protocols and regulations. “This PLA won’t erase the injustices of the past, but it can write a better and more equitable future,” said Carol Kim, the business manager for the San Diego County Building and Construction Trades Council. She’s the second woman and first Asian American to lead the council.U.S. ‘Avatar’ Workers Vote for a Union in Boost for VFX Organizing Effort: The visual effects (VFX) artists who helped bring James Cameron’s “Avatar” epics to life voted to organize late last week with the Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) in a National Labor Relations Board election. These workers include creature costume leads and environment artists as well as others in the stage, environments, render, post viz, sequence, turn over and kabuki departments. VFX artists cited waiting to gain comparable benefits and pay as their union brothers, sisters and siblings and have greater input into working conditions as core reasons for their decision to organize. This victory is just the latest unionization in the largely nonunion VFX space—in fall 2023, artists at Marvel and Walt Disney Pictures voted unanimously to join with IATSE. “This is a huge step forward for our industry as a whole—we’ve come together as a united front to affirm our worth to not just the studios, but to the public as a whole. For too long I’ve been scared about where VFX is going, and even considered leaving. Now I actually feel like there’s a future for us, and I’m excited for it,” lab generalist Kristin Kamera said in a statement.The Onion Union Reaches Tentative Deal with Management, Averting Strike: Hours before their current contract was set to expire, as workers prepared for a strike, the Onion Inc. Union—an affiliate of Writers Guild of America East (WGAE)—reached a tentative agreement with owner G/O Media. The deal will now go to the 36 creative workers in the bargaining unit and the WGAE Council for a ratification vote. The union represents the creative staff at The Onion, The A.V. Club, Deadspin and The Takeout. Core issues for staff members are common ones for a lot of news outlets right now, including regulating artificial intelligence usage, increasing wages and improving benefits. Brown University Prepared to Voluntarily Recognize Postdoc Union: Brown University has announced it would recognize the Brown Postdoc Labor Organization (BPLO)—made up of university postdoctoral researchers and Dean’s Faculty Fellows—once the National Labor Relations Board certifies collected signatures. If successful, BPLO will join Rhode Island Federation of Teachers and Health Professionals (RIFTHP) Local 6516—an affiliate of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT)—which also represents graduate workers, community coordinators and teaching assistants at Brown. “Our generation (is) realizing that you can’t just rely on the benevolence of institutions to protect your rights,” said Caroline Keroack, a postdoctoral research associate and BPLO organizer. “You have to stand up and be in solidarity with your co-workers to get what you deserve.”Duke Raleigh Hospital Maintenance Workers Organize: Maintenance workers at Duke Raleigh Hospital became the first in North Carolina to organize this year after voting Friday to join Operating Engineers (IUOE) Local 465. This victory comes after another recent win last year in North Carolina’s Research Triangle, which includes Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill, where roughly 2,400 graduate student workers at Duke University won their election to join SEIU Workers United Southern Region Local 27. Maintenance workers now will be able to collectively negotiate a contract that addresses pay, job security and fair treatment within the Duke University Health System. “We’re just trying to provide for our families, be treated fairly and have our hard work respected,” said longtime Duke Raleigh worker Corey Brown. “People have kids, houses and lives at stake, and before the hospital could do pretty much whatever they wanted. Now we will have the power to secure our future together.”Trulieve Magnolia Workers Organize in First Election for Arizona Cannabis Agricultural Workers: Workers at Trulieve’s central cannabis production facility in Phoenix made state history last week when they voted in favor of organizing with United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 99. In a 37–4 vote, they became the first cannabis agricultural workers in the state to form a union; it was only the second union election to be administered by the Arizona Agricultural Employment Relations Board. This is a massive win for the cultivators and post-harvest workers who make the more than $1 billion industry in Arizona possible. “Today, employees [at the] Trulieve Magnolia [facility] have proved that no matter the obstacle, when working people stand together in solidarity and demand better for themselves and their families, there is nothing they cannot achieve,” said Jim McLaughlin, president of Local 99.Emerson College Resident Assistants Win Union Election in Unanimous Vote: Residential assistants (RAs) at Emerson College voted unanimously to join Office and Professional Employees (OPEIU) Local 153, becoming the first student workers to organize at the Boston campus. Members of the Emerson Union for Resident Assistants (EURA) play a number of essential roles at Emerson, acting as support networks for first-year students, first responders in emergency situations in the dorms, mentors and more. EURA is the eighth cohort of RAs to form a union with Local 153 since 2022. They join their union brothers, sisters and siblings at Boston University and Tufts University in the fight to improve working conditions, policy transparency and wages for student workers. “Now that we have won our union, we will be able to start the bargaining process….We want to make the RA position more equitable for future RAs that step into the role while also preserving the parts of the job that we love, and we believe that collective bargaining will help bring meaningful change to this role,” said Casper Apodaca, a third-year RA and member of EURA’s Organizing Committee. Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 02/12/2024 - 12:07Tags: Organizing
Black History Month Profiles: Jarel Sanders
This year, for Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Jarel Sanders of AFSCME.
Jarel Sanders is the vice president of Pride at Work, where he works on creating space for Black, queer workers within our unions. Sanders was recently featured in a Labor Heritage Power Hour podcast discussing Bayard Rustin as not only being a significant part of the civil rights movement, but the importance of Rustin being a Black, gay man in the civil rights movement.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 02/12/2024 - 11:26Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Amalgamated Transit Union Local 616 Members Ratify New Contract with Transit Windsor
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 616 workers at Transit Windsor ratified a new collective bargaining agreement hours before a strike was set to begin. The contract was approved with a 90% vote in favor. The new deal includes wage increases and improvements to benefits. ATU Local 616 represents almost 300 members at Transit Windsor who work as operators and in customer service, administration, maintenance and skilled trades positions.
"Our members showed up in large numbers [Sunday] morning and they voted overwhelmingly to ratify the tentative agreement that the bargaining committee negotiated last weekend. So we're very pleased with the outcome," says Manny Sforza, ATU international vice president. "And it's a very well balanced contract. Something that the bargaining team should be proud of. A contract that the membership should be proud of. They stood together. They showed that they were willing to strike for a fair deal and I believe that's what we accomplished."
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 02/12/2024 - 10:57
