National Native American Heritage Month Profiles: Alexander “Alex” Osif
Throughout National Native American Heritage Month, the AFL-CIO will be profiling leaders and activists to spotlight the diverse contributions Native Americans have made to the labor movement and toward expanding the rights of working people. Today's profile features Alexander “Alex” Osif of the Mine Workers (UMWA).
Alex Osif is of Kin Yaa’áanii (The Towering House) clan of the Navajo tribe. He also works as a case manager in the Black Lung Clinics Program at Canyonlands Healthcare in Chilchinbeto, Arizona, on the Navajo Nation. Osif represents his union brothers and sisters and is a tremendous advocate for those with black lung disease. He works with the National Black Lung Association and brings that program to the Southwest for his retirees, his communities, the Navajo Nation and beyond into the surrounding mining communities.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 11/22/2024 - 08:52Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Chicago Tribune Journalists Secure First Contract
Working people across the United States regularly step 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.
Members of the Chicago Tribune Guild, part of The NewsGuild-CWA (TNG-CWA), won their first contract with Alden Global Capital last week after six years of bargaining.
Alden Global Capital, which has a well-established reputation of gutting and slashing newsrooms, began buying into the Tribune Publishing Company in 2019. The hedge fund fully acquired the paper in May 2021. This landmark contract was ratified with near-unanimous approval on Friday, providing two years of consecutive raises and an immediate signing bonus. The agreement also retains Guild members’ 401(k) match, raises minimum salary floors and establishes essential protections against artificial intelligence outsourcing.
“We won because we fought, and we fought because we believe in the work we do for Chicago,” said Unit Chair Jake Sheridan. “The world needs people to push for truth right now. That’s what we do. This contract gives us a little more stability and a little more pay so we can keep doing it.”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 11/22/2024 - 08:44Tags: Organizing
National Native American Heritage Month Profiles: Makayla Gallagher
Throughout National Native American Heritage Month, the AFL-CIO will be profiling leaders and activists to spotlight the diverse contributions Native Americans have made to the labor movement and toward expanding the rights of working people. Today's profile features Makayla Gallagher of the Professional Aviation Safety Specialists (PASS).
Makayla Gallagher is proudly affiliated with the Sitnasuak and Bering Straits Native corporations in Alaska. Born and raised in the state, Gallagher has a deep connection to the outdoors, embracing it not only as a pastime but as an integral way of life. She is an active member of PASS and serves as her facility’s union representative, dedicated to understanding the benefits available to employees and fostering positive relationships within the Federal Aviation Administration.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 11/21/2024 - 08:40Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Philly Workers at SEPTA Reach Tentative Agreement that Includes Major Pay Raise
Working people across the United States regularly step 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.
Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) workers in Philadelphia tentatively agreed to a new one-year contract. More than 5,000 workers are represented by Transport Workers Union (TWU) Local 234 and include bus, subway and trolley operators, mechanics, cashiers, maintenance people and custodians. The tentative deal would include a 5% pay increase that, coupled with the last deal, increases workers’ wages to 12.5% more than they made as of Dec. 8, 2023. Members who retire during the life of the contract will receive an additional 5% pension increase. Also included in the contract are schedule stability for operators, increased health benefits and safety changes.
Union members will vote on whether to ratify the deal on Dec. 6. Local 234 unanimously authorized a strike that would become unnecessary if members approve the tentative deal.
“We’re going to continue to work in tandem in hopes that we can get transit funding, so we won’t be back at this place next year," said Local 234 President Brian Pollitt.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 11/21/2024 - 08:23Captive Audience Meetings Are Illegal Nationwide: 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).
Alabama AFL-CIO:
— Alabama AFL-CIO (@AlabamaAFLCIO) October 17, 2024
Alaska AFL-CIO:
📸 Photos from today's @unac4996AK Solidarity Spine Walk at UAA. #FairContractNow #UnionStrong #1u pic.twitter.com/6a8opwsaGY
— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) November 20, 2024
Colorado AFL-CIO:
👀 "Colorado is among states that historically adopted policies intended to limit private sector workers’ freedoms to form unions. Today, this suppression of workers’ rights is weakening Colorado’s economy." @greenhousenyt @RBReich https://t.co/6keiskujQX
— Colorado AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOCO) November 20, 2024
Florida AFL-CIO:
— Florida AFL-CIO (@FLAFLCIO) November 14, 2024
Illinois AFL-CIO:
Thousands of students were in Springfield yesterday for the Central Illinois Building Trades Career Day. They met tradespeople from 14 trades, had hands on experiences and several decided they want to join a union when they graduate! pic.twitter.com/701fKfUizn
— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) November 20, 2024
Maine AFL-CIO:
Rep-elect Kilton Webb (@IBEW 567) discusses how he developed a winning campaign with help from the Maine AFL-CIO Worker Candidate Training.https://t.co/r6osZ5K5Rj #mepolitics
— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) November 20, 2024
Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
PLAs
PLAs
PLAs@Mass_BTU #mapoli https://t.co/ymE15GBJ2L
— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) November 20, 2024
Minnesota AFL-CIO:
“I have been working downtown for several years, and for the first time I feel a new kind of hope for what is to come and the changes that we will win together,” said @CTUL_TC member Estella Tirado #BetterInAUnion (via @workdaymagazine) https://t.co/JWS0CXr1DJ
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) November 19, 2024
Missouri AFL-CIO:
Happy #NationalMonopolyDay! 🎩💸 Did you know the monopoly board games is made by union workers? pic.twitter.com/Qb4twyut4H
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) November 19, 2024
Montana State AFL-CIO:
It's time for St. Peter's to support nurses in Helena and bargain in good faith. Keep nurses local! Protect high quality patient care! #mtpol #mtnews #mtlabor https://t.co/rjdhlHjcnN
— Montana AFL-CIO (@MTaflcio) October 28, 2024
Nevada State AFL-CIO:
It’s National Apprenticeship Week!
Earlier this year we had the pleasure of touring the Bricklayers Local 13 JACT with @ActSecJulieSu
Find information on all apprenticeship programs and see what works best for you: https://t.co/U5HVtHfspX pic.twitter.com/hZQWihe5lI
— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) November 19, 2024
North Carolina State AFL-CIO:
H.R. 9495 includes a poison pill provision that is a serious threat to nonprofits, incl. unions. This bill would remove due process and hand over considerable power to the next Trump admin. Join us in urging Congress to vote NO on H.R. 9495.🔗https://t.co/kbmYTMI1Sn #1u pic.twitter.com/hRqQ7DrcaK
— NC State AFL-CIO // #CountMeIn (@NCStateAFLCIO) November 20, 2024
Ohio AFL-CIO:
Congratulations @RepMarcyKaptur, a true champion of working people https://t.co/dH4BugYven
— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) November 20, 2024
Oregon AFL-CIO:
The longer the picket line, the shorter the strike.
Head to https://t.co/bb7P96KEa4 and find a picket line near you to support today!
With 5 unions on strike in 6 cities there are many ways to show solidarity and support striking workers. pic.twitter.com/Wvg2sUJalH
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) November 20, 2024
Rhode Island AFL-CIO:
Answer: YES.
Can unions save offshore wind from Trump? https://t.co/AR73U4sSX1 @climatejobs @climatejobsri
— Rhode Island AFL-CIO (@riaflcio) November 20, 2024
Texas AFL-CIO:
GET IN LOSER WE'RE ORGANIZING THE SOUTH 😤 https://t.co/ARV6q2kpMg
— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) November 20, 2024
Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:
Shame on Anheuser-Busch for closing Elysian in Seattle rather than negotiating a contract with brewery workers!
Despite being in active negotiations, the company never mentioned the possibility of closure, completely blindsiding our @teamsters117 siblings. https://t.co/VzBw8xa2sA
— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) November 18, 2024
Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
Labor unions are a growing trend in health care industry https://t.co/TapeiTkoWI
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) November 20, 2024
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 11/20/2024 - 11:33National Native American Heritage Month Profiles
Throughout National Native American Heritage Month, the AFL-CIO will be profiling leaders and activists to spotlight the diverse contributions Native Americans have made to the labor movement and toward expanding the rights of working people.
Check out the members we've featured so far:
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 11/20/2024 - 10:54National Native American Heritage Month Profiles: Kota Aranda
Throughout National Native American Heritage Month, the AFL-CIO will be profiling leaders and activists to spotlight the diverse contributions Native Americans have made to the labor movement and toward expanding the rights of working people. Today's profile features Kota Aranda of the Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE).
Kota Aranda has worked as a camera and lens technician since joining IATSE Local 600 in 2020 and enjoys amplifying diverse voices through Local 600’s BIPOC group in Atlanta. “My proudest moment was seeing my name in the credits of my first full run,” Aranda said. “That was a really rewarding experience. It’s just a name with a long list of others but to me that name in the credits represents the early mornings, late nights, long days, hard work and perseverance that it took to get the job done.”
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 11/20/2024 - 10:45Service & Solidarity Spotlight: St. Louis University Graduate Workers Vote to Join UAW
Working people across the United States regularly step 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.
Late last week, St. Louis University graduate students overwhelmingly voted in favor of joining the United Autoworkers (UAW).
The Graduate Workers of St. Louis University Union-UAW (GWSLUU-UAW) unit covers more than 500 people who work for the school as teaching and research assistants. This landslide victory came right before the National Labor Relations Board reported Monday that more than 50,000 students who work at U.S. universities have unionized during the past two years, proving that this win is part of a much larger national effort to organize increasingly precarious higher education institutions. Members cite the need for better working conditions and increased pay as core motivators, saying that before the organizing effort, graduate workers had not received a raise in more than a decade. Concerns around uncertainty in science funding and unstable regulation of visas were also issues that spurred the campaign.
“This feels like the greatest achievement of our lives,” said Zach Davis, a doctoral candidate in American studies. “For the first time in this university’s history, grad workers will have a seat at the table in all decisions that affect them. There will no longer be any conversations about us in which we are not an active participant and so long as this union is around, that is not going to change.”
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 11/20/2024 - 10:39National Native American Heritage Month Profiles: Kassy McDowell
Throughout National Native American Heritage Month, the AFL-CIO will be profiling leaders and activists to spotlight the diverse contributions Native Americans have made to the labor movement and toward expanding the rights of working people. Today's profile features Kassy McDowell of the Heat and Frost Insulators (HFIU).
Kassy McDowell is a proud Indigenous woman who champions diversity and inclusion for all underrepresented groups in the trades. As a certified journeyperson, she passes on her skill and knowledge to help future generations on their path to a career in the insulation trade.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 11/19/2024 - 09:59Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Rite Aid Workers Secure Tentative Agreement
Working people across the United States regularly step 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.
Rite Aid workers in Southern California, represented by the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW), secured a tentative agreement (TA) on Friday after months of intense negotiations with the drugstore chain.
The deal covers more than 3,500 UFCW members across locals 8GS, 135, 324, 770, 1167, 1428 and 1442. Workers voted overwhelmingly to authorize a strike a month ago, building on months of strategic actions, rallies and community conversations. Their endurance has paid off—the Rite Aid TA includes improved wages, health care benefits protections and pension security.
“This tentative agreement would not have been possible without the strength we showed during the bargaining process,” the UFCW Rite Aid Bargaining Committee said in a joint statement. “We stood up to the company’s unfair labor practices and showed them we were willing to fight for the contract we deserved. The power we showed at our stores translated to power at the bargaining table. Our solidarity and this victory will send a strong message to workers everywhere – when we fight, we win!
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 11/19/2024 - 09:19Worker Wins: Standing Together for Their Families
Our latest roundup of worker wins includes numerous examples of working people organizing, bargaining and mobilizing for a better life.
Hotel Workers Ratify New Contract at Major Waikiki Hotels: On Monday, more than 2,500 hotel workers represented by UNITE HERE Local 5 decisively voted to ratify a new contract at five Marriott-operated hotels in Waikiki. Members work for the Royal Hawaiian, Sheraton Princess Kaiulani, Sheraton Waikiki, Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort and the Westin Moana Surfrider. This victory comes on the heels of another recent win by UNITE HERE members at the Hilton Hawaiian Village, who reached a tentative agreement earlier this month. “For 40 days, Hilton Hawaiian Village workers led all of Local 5,” said Cade Watanabe, UNITE HERE Local 5 financial secretary-treasurer. “Their willingness to step-up and strike set a historic new standard for hotel workers, and without their sacrifice we would not have been able to secure similar agreements with Kyo-ya and Marriott. These agreements achieve our major goals—wages that help us get ahead and not just get by, job security and a commitment from our employers to address workload and staffing concerns that have a direct impact on our guests.”
CVS Workers Ratify Powerful New Agreement: Thousands of CVS pharmacists, clerks and technicians, represented by the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW), in California voted on Friday to ratify a new three-year contract with the pharmacy. The more than 7,000 workers won the new agreement after months of negotiations and an unfair labor practice strike in Los Angeles and Orange counties. Members across eight different locals are celebrating victories like annual wage increases through the life of the contract, more secure staffing levels and a more affordable health care plan. “After countless hours at the bargaining table and a strategic strike in seven Southern California pharmacies protesting the company’s illegal actions, the hard-working members of UFCW stood together for their families and each other and secured a strong contract,” the UFCW locals said in a joint statement. “This contract is a concrete and direct result of the tireless work of the member-led bargaining committee.”
Staff at Alaska’s Largest Newspaper Win Union Election: Newsroom staff at the Anchorage Daily News (ADN), the state’s largest newspaper, have decisively voted to join the Pacific Northwest Newspaper Guild, a local union of The NewsGuild-CWA. This massive win makes the ADN the only union newsroom in all of Alaska. The Anchorage News Guild members cited the need for fair wages, financial transparency and a sustainable workplace environment as core reasons why they organized. “A key thing for everyone is a desire for fair wages and regular wages that can keep up with the cost of inflation,” staff member Alex DeMarban said, who has been with ADN for about 15 years. “We want to get paid enough to continue working there and continue producing the high-quality product that Alaskans want.”
Missourians Vote for $15 Minimum Wage and Other Ballot Measure Wins Around the Country: On Election Day, Missouri voters voted to approve raising the state’s minimum wage to $15 an hour and guaranteeing paid sick leave to workers. This is one of multiple other pro-working families ballot measures that passed on Tuesday. Proposition A will gradually increase the current state minimum wage of $12.30 to $13.75 an hour on Jan. 1, 2025, and then again to $15 in 2026. The wage will then be adjusted annually based on inflation. This measure also requires employers with 15 or more workers to provide one hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked. This victory is in part due to the work of the Missouri AFL-CIO and other community groups that backed Prop. A, including the Missouri Workers Center, the Missouri NAACP and the ACLU of Missouri. Other wins across the country include:
- Paid leave measures passed in Alaska and Nebraska.
- School voucher measures that would hurt public school funding were rejected by workers in Colorado, Nebraska and Kentucky.
- Reproductive health care protection measures that passed in seven states.
Workers at Shedd Aquarium Win Union Election: Employees at the Shedd Aquarium have overwhelmingly voted to join AFSCME Council 31, making them the latest workers at the cultural institution in Chicago who have decided to organize for an improved workplace. More than 75% of workers voted for the formation of Shedd Workers United. The 180-person union includes staff who work in guest relations, learning and community, development, and other departments. Workers initially announced their intent to join AFSCME in April, citing concerns with work-life imbalance, low wages and a lack of communication from management and more. Despite union-busting activities from management, workers remained steadfast in their fight for representation. “We formed our union because we care about our co-workers, we love the aquarium and we want to make it better for all. We won by overcoming management’s divisive anti-union campaign,” the Shedd Workers United organizing committee said. “With our victory, we urge management to take a new approach and respect us as equals as we take our seat at the table to negotiate our first contract.”
NLRB Judge Orders Amazon to Let Workers Vote on Joining Union: A National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) administrative judge ordered a third union election at the Amazon warehouse on Tuesday in Bessemer, Alabama, that made history as the site of the very first union election by Amazon workers in 2021. The judge ruled that the corporation had once again engaged in a series of illegal practices to interfere with workers’ organizing efforts to join the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union-UFCW (RWDSU-UFCW). After the first vote, the NLRB ruled that Amazon violated federal labor law by encouraging workers to drop off their ballots in a mailbox it had installed at the warehouse that was surrounded with anti-union slogans. Now, after the second election that took place in 2022, the judge is ordering a third election, finding that management illegally removed union materials from the break room, among other violations. However, RWDSU-UFCW points out that the lack of additional remedies attached to the ruling means workers still don’t have access to a fair new vote. “Amazon has been found yet again to have violated basic labor laws,” said RWDSU-UFCW President Stuart Appelbaum in a statement. “Just as was ordered after the first election, a new election, now second rerun election, has again been ordered based on Amazon’s conduct, this time before even determining the final results of the rerun election. We reject, however, the [Administrative Law Judge]’s decision not to provide any of the significant and meaningful remedies which we requested and would be required for a free and fair election….There are two things clear in this decision; Amazon broke the law yet again, and labor law is stunningly broken in this country.”
Machinists at Boeing Approve New Contract, End Strike: Some 33,000 front-line workers at Boeing, members of Machinists (IAM) districts 751 and W24, voted to ratify a contract with Boeing that has instantly set a new standard for compensation and wages for aerospace industry workers. The deal followed a nearly two-month strike in Washington state, Oregon and California that drew widespread bipartisan public support. The contract includes a 43.65% compounded wage increase over the four-year life of the contract. “Working people know what it’s like when a company overreaches and takes away more than is fair,” said Jon Holden, president of District 751, and Brandon Bryant, president of District W24, in a joint statement. “Through this strike and the resulting victory, frontline workers at Boeing have done their part to begin rebalancing the scales in favor of the middle class – and in doing so, we hope to inspire other workers in our industry and beyond to continue standing up for justice at work. Through this victory and the strike that made it possible, IAM members have taken a stand for respect and fair wages in the workplace. Our members perform high quality and flight critical work for the airplanes we build and deserve a return on their labor investment that provides for the quality of life worthy of that labor.”
Largest Unit of County Workers in Colorado Form Union with AFSCME: A majority of workers at Arapahoe County Department of Human Services voted overwhelmingly to form a union as AFSCME Colorado. They are the largest unit of workers to organize under Colorado’s new collective bargaining law for county workers. The new unit covers 520 workers. They are focused on manageable workloads, fair pay, improving safety standards, and enhancing health care and job security. “I am proud of all the people I work with and the great work we do to serve our community,” said Heather Morgan, a social case worker. “Today is a win not only for us as employees but for the people we serve. Now we can work in partnership with the county in receiving the same support we strive to provide to others, and I am ready for this next chapter of collaboration.” “I love my work and the people I serve,” said Jordan McGinnis, a family engagement facilitator. “That’s why coming together in a union is so important. This is the best way for us to address high caseloads and turnover to improve client care.”
Weill Cornell Workers Successfully Vote to Form a Union with the TWU: Custodians, housekeepers and receiving clerks at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York City successfully organized with Transport Workers Union (TWU) Local 241. Workers at the medical facility will begin negotiating a first contract, seeking improved economic benefits and more security. Local 241 represents workers at Columbia University and other affiliated institutions in New York City. “This is a great victory for working families in New York City. We are ready and excited to work with Weill Cornell custodians, housekeepers, and receiving clerks to negotiate a first contract that improves the lives of workers and their families,” said TWU International President John Samuelsen. “We are proud to represent Weill Cornell workers as they negotiate their first contract. This organizing victory is a testament to what TWU locals and the International can achieve when we coordinate effectively,” Local 241 President Alex Molina said.
UFCW Members at Fred Meyer and QFC Ratify New Contract: After months of negotiations, members of United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 555 who work at Fred Meyer and QFC stores in Oregon and southwest Washington have overwhelmingly ratified a new three-year contract. Fred Meyers workers in Portland went on strike in August in response to multiple unfair labor practices. The agreement covers more than 11,000 members and ensures higher wages, stronger health care and a stable retirement. Additionally, the new contract improves the process to address contract violations. “Our new contract gives me peace of mind knowing that my healthcare is protected and my wages will keep up with the rising cost of living,” said Dale Russell Cronin, a Fred Meyer worker and Local 555 board member. “I’m especially thankful for the improvements in dental benefits and retirement. It feels good to know we are a fighting union and when we work together, we win.”
UFCW Members at Fred Meyer and QFC Ratify New Contract: After months of negotiations, members of United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 555 who work at Fred Meyer and QFC stores in Oregon and southwest Washington have overwhelmingly ratified a new three-year contract. Fred Meyers workers in Portland went on strike in August in response to multiple unfair labor practices. The agreement covers more than 11,000 members and ensures higher wages, stronger health care and a stable retirement. Additionally, the new contract improves the process to address contract violations. “Our new contract gives me peace of mind knowing that my healthcare is protected and my wages will keep up with the rising cost of living,” said Dale Russell Cronin, a Fred Meyer worker and Local 555 board member. “I’m especially thankful for the improvements in dental benefits and retirement. It feels good to know we are a fighting union and when we work together, we win.”
‘Saturday Night Live’ VFX Workers Win Voluntary Recognition: Visual Effects (VFX) workers for “Saturday Night Live” (“SNL”) are organizing with the Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) and have won official recognition of their union. The unit includes 16 VFX artists and leads who all signed union authorization cards. These workers are critical for making the variety show’s pre-recorded sketches possible, often under extremely tight deadlines. “Working here is tremendously fun, chaotic, and hugely rewarding,” said VFX Danny Behar in an IATSE press release. “We work 15 hour days every Saturday, delivering renders before cast & crew start rehearsals, and ending after the show has finished broadcasting. Our department is essential to the show’s success. For that and a multitude of other reasons, we deserve to have a seat at the table. We are the only department that currently does not have one.”
Baltimore Museum of Art Workers Overwhelmingly Ratify Their First Contract: With a nearly unanimous vote, workers at the Baltimore Museum of Art represented by AFSCME Maryland Council 3 overwhelmingly ratified their first union contract. The contract covers more than 130 museum workers, including security officers, facilities workers, museum educators, visitor experience staff, installation employees, curatorial employees and others. The contract runs through June 30, 2027, and includes raises of more than 13% over the life of the contract, reimbursements for purchases of protective workwear, seating for gallery officers at certain posts in the museum and improved leave, including six weeks of fully paid parental leave. “I believe that everyone, everywhere, should unionize,” said John Young, a gallery officer at the museum. “It’s important to remind those in charge that they do not provide the labor that ensures their income and that the rights and well-being of those who work under them should be their top priority.”
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 11/14/2024 - 13:55Service & Solidarity Spotlight: UNITE HERE Local 5 Members Ratify Landmark Contract at Waikiki Marriott Hotels
Working people across the United States regularly step 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 2,500 workers represented by UNITE HERE Local 5 voted to ratify a new labor contract at five Marriott-operated hotels in Honolulu. Workers at the Royal Hawaiian, Sheraton Princess Kaiulani, Sheraton Waikiki, Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort and the Westin Moana Surfrider voted for the contract. Details weren't released, but the contract includes salary increases, and addresses workload and staffing issues. Ratification votes are set to continue for workers at the Sheraton Maui and Sheraton Kauai later this week.
"For 40 days, Hilton Hawaiian Village workers led all of Local 5. Their willingness to step-up and strike set a historic new standard for hotel workers, and without their sacrifice we would not have been able to secure similar agreements with Kyo-ya and Marriott," said Cade Watanabe, UNITE HERE Local 5 financial secretary-treasurer. "These agreements achieve our major goals—wages that help us get ahead and not just get by, job security and a commitment from our employers to address workload and staffing concerns that have a direct impact on our guests."
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 11/14/2024 - 09:28Winning a First Contract: 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).
Alaska AFL-CIO:
Honoring the courage, sacrifice, and dedication of our veterans today and every day. Thank you for your service and the countless ways you’ve defended our freedom. #VeteransDay 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/lvOWEMafpW
— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) November 11, 2024
Arizona AFL-CIO:
🎉 Historic Win for Arizona! The AZ AFL-CIO congratulates @reprubengallego to the US Senate!
As a strong advocate for the PRO Act, Ruben has fought for:
✅Good-paying jobs
✅Access to healthcare
✅Lower costs for families pic.twitter.com/1BBj0CBfnX
— Arizona AFL-CIO (@ArizonaAFLCIO) November 12, 2024
California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:
Check us out on that OTHER platform. 😏https://t.co/lNyFHb0rht
— California Federation of Labor Unions (@CaliforniaLabor) November 12, 2024
Colorado AFL-CIO:
Labor Exchange - Tune In Tonight (11/11) at 6 PM on KGNU 88.5FM/1390AM! 📻
On today’s epiode of the Labor Exchange we talk the 2024 election with political strategist and community leader Alvina Vasquez. @AlvinaVasquez https://t.co/fcnyFU2qAf
— Colorado AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOCO) November 11, 2024
Connecticut AFL-CIO:
Presidential administrations change, but the labor movement's values do not. pic.twitter.com/EEOaOrttzW
— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) November 7, 2024
Florida AFL-CIO:
— Florida AFL-CIO (@FLAFLCIO) November 6, 2024
Illinois AFL-CIO:
We can’t wait any longer. Equal pay for equal work. It’s time to #FixTierTwo. pic.twitter.com/mOLDTmhgaA
— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) November 13, 2024
Maine AFL-CIO:
Congratulations to the Bangor Daily News staff on winning your first contract! https://t.co/rGlPx59rWS
— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) November 12, 2024
Maryland State and D.C. AFL-CIO:
Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
Pres. Lynch addressed 100s of female middle and high school students at the MA Girls in Trades Conference @IBEW103, encouraging young women to pursue careers in union construction trades. Programs like GIT provide new generations with access to high-paying, high-skilled careers pic.twitter.com/S1SRHUvcV3
— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) November 13, 2024
Michigan State AFL-CIO:
Minnesota AFL-CIO:
Help spread the word! Local unions have scheduled a Red Cross blood drive at the Saint Paul Labor Center, from noon to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 4. https://t.co/3AXeS6Ot6d #BetterInAUnion
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) November 12, 2024
Mississippi AFL-CIO:
Missouri AFL-CIO:
Our thoughts are with Kevin's family and friends. Heartbroken. https://t.co/mc6yMCqPy8
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) November 13, 2024
Nevada State AFL-CIO:
Today we honor and thank those who have served our country🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/rjhuoTetvt
— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) November 11, 2024
New York State AFL-CIO:
Congrats, @LauraAGillen! pic.twitter.com/JaGzb68mLv
— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) November 7, 2024
North Carolina State AFL-CIO:
Congrats to @Elaine4NC in her victory in the race for NC Secretary of State 🎉 Your trailblazing service for the people of our state continues! #countmein pic.twitter.com/Zb8TpIuoo6
— NC State AFL-CIO // #CountMeIn (@NCStateAFLCIO) November 6, 2024
Ohio AFL-CIO:
This @ClevelandAFLCIO @IBEW Local 38 family at the #WhiteHouse with @POTUS to highlight how an @AFLCIO #union can change the lives of workers is awesome! https://t.co/5UTioqDI2o
— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) November 13, 2024
Oregon AFL-CIO:
It’s officially #SolidaritySeason: Starting tomorrow, 5 unions will be on strike at locations across Oregon.
💥@Oregon_AFSCME
💥@BCTGM
💥@CGE6069
💥@albany_teachers
💥@Teamsters
Find a picket line near you at https://t.co/bb7P96KEa4 #UnionStrong #OregonLabor pic.twitter.com/q8vl7A4OOH
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) November 12, 2024
Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:
To our brothers and sisters serving today and yesterday, we honor you every day. pic.twitter.com/etj3myjgvk
— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) November 11, 2024
Rhode Island AFL-CIO:
Great story from @Kate_mwilkinson about how Offshore Wind is transforming our economy, and creating great paying union jobs.
Inside Quonset: An ecosystem of companies working on RI's newest offshore wind farm https://t.co/n2x5N5DbDP
— Rhode Island AFL-CIO (@riaflcio) November 13, 2024
Texas AFL-CIO:
Solidarity with striking @ZeniMaxWorkers ✊
Texas labor has your back! #1u https://t.co/PT2VSpVncO
— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) November 13, 2024
Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:
Congratulations to @UniteHereLocal8 members at the Seattle airport Doubletree and Hilton on this major contract win!
Strikes work 💯 https://t.co/uMjYJoY4bL
— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) November 12, 2024
Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
Students, Faculty Call on Marquette U to Recognize Union https://t.co/48YNy2y7W6
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) November 13, 2024
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 11/13/2024 - 16:10Service & Solidarity Spotlight: CVS Workers Ratify Powerful New Agreement
Working people across the United States regularly step 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.
Thousands of CVS pharmacists, clerks and technicians, represented by the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW), in California voted on Friday to ratify a new three-year contract with the pharmacy.
The more than 7,000 workers won the new agreement after months of negotiations and an unfair labor practice strike in Los Angeles and Orange counties. Members across eight different locals are celebrating victories like annual wage increases through the life of the contract, more secure staffing levels and a more affordable health care plan.
“After countless hours at the bargaining table and a strategic strike in seven Southern California pharmacies protesting the company’s illegal actions, the hard-working members of UFCW stood together for their families and each other and secured a strong contract,” the UFCW locals said in a joint statement. “This contract is a concrete and direct result of the tireless work of the member-led bargaining committee.”
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 11/13/2024 - 11:01Protesting for Better Staffing Practices: 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.
How Julie Su Negotiated the End of the Boeing Strike: “While the world braced for the election earlier this week, acting labor secretary Julie Su was busy solving another crisis—helping to end the Boeing strike.”
Coastal Bend Nurses Ratify New Union Contract at CCMC: “Nurses at Corpus Christi Medical Center (CCMC) are seeing changes that will help improve workplace practices and all-around patient care. That's thanks to a new three-year contract that was ratified by HCA Management for nurses represented by National Nurses Organizing Committee/National Nurses United (NNOC/NNU). More than 700 nurses across Texas will be impacted by the changes. KRIS 6 News previously reported in June that nurses at CCMC protested for better staffing practices.”
Staff at Alaska’s Largest Newspaper Approve New Union, Election Results Show: “Newsroom staff at the Anchorage Daily News, the state’s largest newspaper, have voted to unionize, according to election results published Tuesday by the National Labor Relations Board. The vote was 13–4 in favor of unionization, with two eligible voters not participating. The Anchorage News Guild, which will represent newsroom staff, had requested that management voluntarily recognize the union, but the newspaper’s ownership declined and requested the federally managed election.”
JT Newsroom Employees' Union is Recognized: “Newsroom employees at the Racine Journal Times are praising their employer for not blocking their attempts to unionize. Less than three weeks after the paper’s editorial staff announced a plan to organize, the Racine NewsGuild was voluntarily recognized by Lee Enterprises as part of the Kenosha Newspaper Guild bargaining unit. The Iowa-based company owns both papers. The next step is for the Racine NewsGuild to negotiate a contract.”
Boeing Strike Ends as Workers Accept New Contract: “Boeing's U.S. West Coast factory workers accepted a new contract offer on Monday, ending a bitter seven-week strike that halted most jet production and deepened a financial crisis at the troubled planemaker. The union said members voted 59% in favor of the new contract, which includes a 38% pay rise over four years, easing pressure on new CEO Kelly Ortberg after two previous offers were voted down in recent weeks.”
Pennsylvania Faculty Union Joins National AFT: “The union representing more than 5,000 faculty and coaches across Pennsylvania’s 10 state-owned universities is the latest to affiliate with AFT, a nationwide union of education and other workers. Members of the Association of Pennsylvania State College and University Faculties approved the affiliation in a three-day election last week. It begins Jan. 1.”
Dow Machinists End Strike After Agreeing to New Deal: “The strike involving 77 union machinists at Dow Chemical/Union Carbide in South Charleston is over. Members of International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Local 598 accepted the deal Thursday evening. The new contract ends a 10-day strike. ‘Congratulations to the membership of IAM Local 598 for standing strong for the contract they deserve,’ IAM District 54 President T. Dean Wright Jr. said in a news release. ‘Thanks to their solidarity, we have won a victory for our members, their families and the entire community. I would like to thank the District 54 staff, Local 598 officers, our members and their families, the South Charleston community, and International President Brian Bryant for all of their support.’”
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 11/12/2024 - 13:30Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Workers at Nonfiction Production Company McGee Media Ratify First Contract
Working people across the United States regularly step 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 McGee Media, the nonfiction production company behind PBS’ "Finding Your Roots with Henry Louis Gates, Jr.," agreed to their first union contract. The contract covers 25 staffers who work as producers, researchers and archivists, and are now represented by the Writers Guild of America East (WGAE). They unanimously voted to ratify the contract last week.
The contract establishes 3% annual wage increases for union members and health care contributions through the Entertainment Industry Flex Plan. The three-year deal also requires 10 vacation days and a minimum of three sick days after two weeks of employment. The deal also includes language covering the use of AI in the workplace: It necessitates advanced notice and “discussion” if AI tools are used by the company.
Members of the bargaining committee stated that the contract “sets a new standard for the documentary television industry and reflects the progressive values of McGee Media.”
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 11/12/2024 - 09:51Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Workers at Shedd Aquarium Win Union Election
Working people across the United States regularly step 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.
Employees at the Shedd Aquarium overwhelmingly voted to join AFSCME Council 31, making them the latest workers at the cultural institution in Chicago who have decided to organize for an improved workplace.
More than 75% of workers voted for the formation of Shedd Workers United. The 180-person union includes staff who work in guest relations, learning and community, development, and other departments. Workers initially announced their intent to join AFSCME in April, citing concerns with work-life imbalance, low wages and a lack of communication from management and more. Despite union-busting activities from management, workers remained steadfast in their fight for representation.
“We formed our union because we care about our co-workers, we love the aquarium and we want to make it better for all. We won by overcoming management’s divisive anti-union campaign,” the Shedd Workers United organizing committee said. “With our victory, we urge management to take a new approach and respect us as equals as we take our seat at the table to negotiate our first contract.”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 11/08/2024 - 09:58Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Workers at Alaska’s Largest Newspaper Approve New Union
Working people across the United States regularly step 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 in the newsroom at the Anchorage Daily News, the state’s largest newspaper, voted 13–4 for a new union. With the vote, the Anchorage Daily News becomes the only union newsroom in Alaska. The workers intend to advocate for fair wages, financial transparency and a sustainable workplace environment.
“My generation of reporters, I feel like we just kind of expected to be doormats, and my professors told me—they’re like, look, you’re taking a vow of poverty when you start this career,” said Kyle Hopkins, a longtime reporter. “Nobody expects to get rich or even be anything beyond kind of middle class or even lower middle class, but I just want the people I work with—and myself, if I lose the ProPublica connection—to be able to pay for child care and health care. Just the bare minimum.”
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 11/07/2024 - 10:10Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Weill Cornell Workers Successfully Vote to Form a Union with the TWU
Working people across the United States regularly step 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.
Custodians, housekeepers and receiving clerks at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York City successfully organized with Transport Workers Union (TWU) Local 241.
Workers at the medical facility will begin negotiating a first contract, seeking improved economic benefits and more security. Local 241 represents workers at Columbia University and other affiliated institutions in New York City.
“This is a great victory for working families in New York City. We are ready and excited to work with Weill Cornell custodians, housekeepers, and receiving clerks to negotiate a first contract that improves the lives of workers and their families,” said TWU International President John Samuelsen.
“We are proud to represent Weill Cornell workers as they negotiate their first contract. This organizing victory is a testament to what TWU locals and the International can achieve when we coordinate effectively,” Local 241 President Alex Molina said.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 11/05/2024 - 10:22Happy Election Day, Kenneth! Go Vote for Harris-Walz
Democracy is at the heart of America’s labor movement—and now it’s time to cast our votes.
We’ve still got a ton of work to do for Kamala Harris, Tim Walz and our pro-union candidates up and down the ballot before the polls close tonight. We all know this election will be close. Your voice truly can make the difference.
- Make a plan to vote! Start by looking up your polling location.
- Learn more about which pro-worker candidates have been endorsed by the AFL-CIO.
- Learn about your state’s voting rules.
If you have any problems voting or see something strange at your polling location, contact our Election–Voter Protection Hotline:
- English: 866-687-8683
- Spanish/English: 888-839-8682
- Asian Languages/English: 888-274-8683
- Arabic: 844-925-5287
Once you’ve voted, please tell all your friends and remind them to vote, too. Send a text or email. Post on your favorite social media account. Make a call to check in. If you find someone who needs a ride or a babysitter, please pitch in and help.
And if you have some spare time today, grab your phone and make calls to our key union contacts in battleground states, reminding them to vote. You don’t even need to leave your desk or couch.
Unions know how to get things done. Let’s go win big.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 11/05/2024 - 10:04
