Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month Profile: Rosa Serai

For Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month this year, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights in the United States. Today's profile is Rosa Serai of NATCA.

Rosa Serai began a remarkable 32½-year career as an air traffic controller in Honolulu. As a dedicated member of NATCA, she became pivotal in the organization—helping to plan the construction of a new facility, training new controllers, serving as a subject matter expert, contributing to labor relations and designing simulation problems. She also served as the safety representative for the Honolulu Control Facility. Today, Serai continues to serve the labor movement as a retiree.

Kenneth Quinnell Sun, 05/25/2025 - 15:22

Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month Profile: Annawa Naing

For Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month this year, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights in the United States. Today's profile is Annawa Naing of AFT.

Annawa Naing is a United Federation of Teachers (UFT) chapter leader and member of the New York State United Teachers, American Federation of Teachers (AFT), National Education Association (NEA) and the Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance (APALA). As a teacher and a unionist, Naing believes in advocacy work—such as fighting for special education services for the students at her school and advocating for fellow members to make sure their union rights are not being violated.

Kenneth Quinnell Sat, 05/24/2025 - 10:03

Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month Profile: Jacob Kaleikini

For Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month this year, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights in the United States. Today's profile is Jacob Kaleikini of AFSCME.

United Public Workers (UPW/AFSCME) Hawaii member Jacob Kaleikini is a lead pipefitter at the Honolulu Board of Water Supply, where he has worked for more than 30 years. Kaleikini's passion for his job and colleagues motivated him to get more involved, and he was elected chief steward of his unit. He then took on the role of chair of UPW’s election committee.

Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 05/23/2025 - 10:03

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: ‘Another Massive Giveaway to Billionaires and Big Corporations’: AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler Slams House Budget Passed in the Dead of Night

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.

AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler issued the following statement on the budget reconciliation bill passed overnight in the House of Representatives:

“House Republican leaders passed this shameful bill in the middle of the night for one reason: They didn’t want the American people to see the deep and harmful cuts they’re imposing in the light of day. This budget gave Congress a choice: stand with the working people, seniors and kids, or deliver another massive giveaway to billionaires and big corporations. Every single member of Congress who voted for this bill chose to write the richest 10% a fat check on the backs of working-class families already struggling to pay their bills.

“They voted to throw millions off their health care, put millions of American jobs on the chopping block, gut investments in energy jobs, raid federal workers’ pensions, and reverse years of progress to protect workers’ privacy, health, and safety. Even policies that should help keep money in workers’ pockets, like no tax on tips or overtime, are temporary—and will only help people pay the much higher costs of health care and energy bills resulting from this deal if they are fortunate to keep their coverage and jobs at all. The fight to beat this is now in the Senate, but working people won’t give up on tough fights. Our jobs, our health care and our families are on the line.”

Read the full press statement here. 

Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 05/23/2025 - 09:58

Worker Wins: As American as Apple Pie

Our latest roundup of worker wins includes numerous examples of working people organizing, bargaining and mobilizing for a better life.

Northwestern University Food Service Workers Ratify New Contract: After a 12-day strike this year, members of UNITE HERE Local 1 who staff dining facilities at Northwestern University have ratified a new collective bargaining agreement. Cooks, cashiers, dishwashers and catering staff on campus are employed by food service contractor Compass Group. Highlights of the new agreement include wage increases of $8 per hour over the lifetime of the contract, a 250% increase in employer pension contributions and more. “Thank you to all the students and community leaders for their support throughout the fight,” the union said in a social media post. “Congratulations, Compass Northwestern workers—when we fight, we win.”

VFX Workers Ratify First Three Contracts with Major U.S. Studios: Visual effects (VFX) workers for Marvel Studios, Walt Disney Pictures and movie franchise Avatar voted overwhelmingly to ratify their first contracts as Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) members. The agreements are a major step forward for the VFX industry, establishing important standard union protections such as overtime pay, a pension and health plan, enforceable rest periods and more. Marvel workers voted unanimously to join IATSE in 2023, and their counterparts at Disney secured a similar election victory one month later. Avatar VFX workers joined the union in January of last year. “I am so proud of my fellow union members for all their hard work through which we have achieved this contract,” said Patrick DeVaney, a postvis coordinator, in a press release. “While we are used to pouring our blood and sweat into our work, unionizing requires something more: our courage. It takes an incredible amount of courage to stand up to management who will always seek to devalue labor in the pursuit of profit margins and your own coworkers who have labored for so long as a part of a non-unionized workforce that they were convinced unionizing would be impossible.”

UAW Members Reach TA with General Dynamics Electric Boat: UAW Local 571 reached a tentative agreement (TA) with submarine manufacturer General Dynamics Electric Boat on Sunday ahead of the union’s midnight strike deadline. More than 2,400 members who build nuclear submarines at the Groton, Connecticut, shipyard would be covered by the new five-year contract. The deal includes major wins such as a 30% wage increase over the lifetime of the agreement and improved wage progression provisions. UAW credits last month’s unified strike authorization vote and strong member mobilization as a major determining factor in securing this TA. “This contract is going to change the lives of our members,” said Bill Louis, president of Local 571. “After years of sky-high housing costs and record inflation, our members are finally seeing the recognition they deserve for their hard work.” 

U Is for Union: Sesame Workshop Staff Win Union Election: Workers at Sesame Workshop, the nonprofit behind the beloved children’s educational program “Sesame Street,” voted 55–19 to join the Office and Professional Employees (OPEIU) Local 153. Despite management attempting to cancel the National Labor Relations Board election twice and trying to turn away eligible staff on the day of the vote, members of Sesame Workers Union (SWU) stood strong and secured a powerful victory. “With a history of unions at Sesame Workshop like WGA and SAG-AFTRA, SWU was founded on the basis of inclusion of the most Sesame workers as possible. The union is the people in your neighborhood, friends, colleagues, coworkers,” said member Kristen Sandmeier. “Our union shows how we can come together in community and collectively negotiate working conditions that are truly responsive to the needs of all of our workers. We are so excited to certify the union and to begin working in harmony with Sesame leadership to ensure a timely first contract.”

Divers at Orlando’s Discovery Cove Theme Park Vote to Join IUOE: Divers at SeaWorld’s Discovery Cove theme park unanimously voted to join the Operating Engineers (IUOE) Local 30 last week, forming the first union at the Orlando, Florida, resort. With a 100% turnout rate for the election, divers and dive technicians are celebrating this milestone victory. These workers perform essential underwater maintenance duties at the aquatic-themed resort, and cite concerns around wages and lack of a voice on the job as core motivators for joining IUOE. During the organizing drive, parent company United Parks & Resorts retained union-busting legal counsel and tried to exclude some workers from union eligibility. But workers persisted through these delay tactics, and the National Labor Relations Board ultimately dismissed the eligibility complaint, ordering an election. “Workers, once they find out they have rights and they can get their fair piece to get a fair wage for their skill, they want that,” said Jonathan Ellingwood, an organizer with IUOE Local 30. “They were just tired of not getting raises, constantly being underpaid [compared] to what the other parks are paying.…The second you get together with the union and file, your voice is immediately heard.”

Norse Atlantic Airways Flight Attendants Ratify New Contract: U.S.-based Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA-CWA) members who work for Norse Atlantic Airways voted overwhelmingly in support of ratifying a new contract. The Norwegian low-cost, long-haul airline was founded in 2021 and has a flight attendant base in John F. Kennedy International Airport. Highlights of the deal include provisions that ensure job security, raise total compensation with the highest per diem in the industry, increase the number of sick days and more. “This contract provides Norse Flight Attendants with certainty and guaranteed economic and work rule improvements. The contract provides much-needed quality of life as Norse charts the path forward,” said Norse AFA President Katarzyna Mroczek.

Washington State Governor Signs Striking Worker UI Benefits Bill into Law: Washington State Gov. Bob Ferguson signed a bill into law Monday that will extend unemployment insurance (UI) benefits to striking workers. Senate Bill 504, which goes into effect Jan. 1, provides up to six weeks of benefits to workers starting 15 to 21 days after a strike or lockout begins. Having access to this financial resource levels the playing field for union members walking the picket line, giving them more time to settle the fair contract they are owed. “Workers joining together in union and collectively bargaining to improve working conditions is as American as apple pie,” said April Sims, president of the Washington State Labor Council. “But with stagnant wages and a rising cost of living, many workers don’t have a safety net if they are pushed to strike. Providing UI for striking workers will level the playing field by encouraging employers to bargain in good faith and making it harder for bad bosses to starve workers out. UI benefits will help striking workers survive while they fight for the union contract that will help them thrive. We’re grateful to Sen. Riccelli for his leadership on this bill, and to all the legislators who listened to working people and supported its passage.”

Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 05/22/2025 - 11:45

Tags: Organizing

Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month Profile: Greta Ladrillono

For Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month this year, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights in the United States. Today's profile is Greta Ladrillono of PASS.

A near 20-year member of the Professional Aviation Safety Specialists (PASS), Greta Ladrillono was born in the Philippines, raised in California and now lives in Florida, where she has worked in different positions for the Federal Aviation Administration. She’s active in her local chapter and is not only a proud union member, but joined PASS as soon as she was eligible.

Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 05/22/2025 - 10:03

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Washington State Governor Signs Striking Worker UI Benefits Bill into Law

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.

Washington State Gov. Bob Ferguson signed a bill into law Monday that will extend unemployment insurance (UI) benefits to striking workers.

Senate Bill 504, which goes into effect Jan. 1, provides up to six weeks of benefits to workers starting 15 to 21 days after a strike or lockout begins. Having access to this financial resource levels the playing field for union members walking the picket line, giving them more time to settle the fair contract they are owed.

“Workers joining together in union and collectively bargaining to improve working conditions is as American as apple pie,” said April Sims, president of the Washington State Labor Council. “But with stagnant wages and a rising cost of living, many workers don’t have a safety net if they are pushed to strike. Providing UI for striking workers will level the playing field by encouraging employers to bargain in good faith and making it harder for bad bosses to starve workers out. UI benefits will help striking workers survive while they fight for the union contract that will help them thrive. We’re grateful to Sen. Riccelli for his leadership on this bill, and to all the legislators who listened to working people and supported its passage.”

Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 05/22/2025 - 09:52

REPORT: Project 2025 and DOGE Effects

This week, we delivered an AFL-CIO Department of People Who Work for a Living report to lawmakers on Capitol Hill, detailing in workers’ own voices how Elon Musk’s DOGE is gutting essential services, putting lives at risk and triggering mass firings that threaten local economies. 

DOGE is Project 2025 on steroids. From delayed veterans’ care to missing Social Security checks, the consequences of DOGE’s illegal mass firings go far beyond Washington. 

Read the Report. 

After holding field hearings across the country, here’s just a few of the things we heard from working people: 

• Since January, thousands of federal workers who we rely on for key services—such as processing Social Security checks, ensuring food gets inspected and providing veterans’ health care—have been illegally fired or pushed out.
• They’ve attacked workers’ rights to stand up to big corporations and organize and collectively bargain, shutting down the National Labor Relations Board and destroying its independence, and crushing the federal mediation agency.
• DOGE has attacked workers' health and safety, including gutting the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, closing worker safety offices and gutting regulations that protect workers.
• DOGE has attacked health care, eliminating jobs at the VA, repealing programs to lower drug prices, directing Congress to gut Medicaid and ending health coverage for millions of people to pay for tax cuts for the wealthy.
• They’ve dismantled the Department of Education, tearing down public education and attacking our universities.
• DOGE has undermined investment and jobs in the next generation of American energy innovation and manufacturing, and undermined workers’ rights across the world.

With budget negotiations ongoing in Congress, this report puts a spotlight on what’s really at stake: the people who make government work and the communities that depend on them. Read it now. 

The people who work for a living want an agenda that works for them—not big corporations and billionaires. We are calling on lawmakers to fully restore the programs that make our country run. Make a call to say, “no cuts that hurt working families.”

Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 05/21/2025 - 13:12

Get Organized: 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 opposes Governor Newsom's surprise proposal to make massive cut to California Arts funding. Read our full statement - https://t.co/TSe7Q7DoOG pic.twitter.com/P41xdBUcHh

— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) May 19, 2025

AFGE:

7 reasons why America’s workers need the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health ⬇https://t.co/dzC7JBMMif

— AFGE (@AFGENational) May 20, 2025

AFSCME:

🚨 @CSEALocal1000 leaders & health care workers from NY-24 held a press conference today to highlight how MILLIONS of working families will suffer if Congress moves forward with cuts to essential Medicaid, food assistance programs & more. #GetOrganized pic.twitter.com/qO0ySGYFb2

— AFSCME (@AFSCME) May 20, 2025

Alliance for Retired Americans:

The Trump Administration is slashing federal support for research, public health, and Medicaid. Americans -- especially seniors -- will pay the price. https://t.co/AV6JLd7zFg

— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) May 20, 2025

Amalgamated Transit Union:

Time for Transdev to get back to the table to give our Local 1338-Dallas, TX, DART paratransit members the contract they deserve. #ATUStrongerTogether #1u #UnionStrong @DARTAlerts pic.twitter.com/7BPVl3T7fs

— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) May 21, 2025

American Federation of Musicians:

AFM President Gagliardi met with @RepJayapal, Ranking Member on the House Judiciary Immigration Subcommittee. They talked about the many issues facing our Canadian members and protecting the rights of the many great musicians in Seattle. pic.twitter.com/RrUQo2pt91

— AFM (@The_AFM) May 20, 2025

American Federation of Teachers:

🚨 “This is what Republicans do—pay for massive tax breaks for billionaires by going after programs families rely on the most: Medicaid, food assistance, and now Medicare. It’s reckless, dishonest, and deeply harmful to the middle class.”https://t.co/NkfjJXRNBE

— AFT (@AFTunion) May 21, 2025

American Postal Workers Union:

Nobody wants privatized postal services except the greedy billionaires on Wall Street who want to pocket $80 billion in revenue that the USPS generates each year by moving the mail to nearly 170 million households across the country and beyond. (For full poll results, visit… pic.twitter.com/DFGDaYTQ9k

— The American Postal Workers Union - APWU (@APWUnational) May 19, 2025

Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:

Solidarity, from one transportation sector to another! 🚆✈️ https://t.co/hxhFfpWbpU pic.twitter.com/0chvXy2e7O

— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) May 16, 2025

Boilermakers:

Read the latest commentary from #Boilermakers International President, Timothy Simmons https://t.co/7z1ysPeqIj pic.twitter.com/FMbU8xsiQn

— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) May 20, 2025

Bricklayers:

The BAC joined the @AFLCIO and other affiliated unions in contesting the Trump administration’s effort to rescind work authorization for immigrants who have lawfully complied with existing immigration law.

Read our statement 🔽

— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) May 19, 2025

Communications Workers of America:

CWA Local 7777 members and retirees held a community block party in Denver, Colo., to promote a pro-worker 2026 ballot initiative (Initiative 43), which would make Colorado the second “just-cause employment” state in the country.https://t.co/9hSBNuIKbI

— CWA (@CWAUnion) May 17, 2025

Department for Professional Employees:

We are excited for the employees at Center for Fiction who have a super majority of support for their union with @RWDSU! https://t.co/noZVgtTCaB

— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) May 19, 2025

Electrical Workers:

#IBEW Pres. Kenny Cooper andI IST Paul Noble sit down to talk about health care and what the IBEW/NECA Family Medical Care Plan can do for IBEW families. Watch here or listen on your favorite podcast platform https://t.co/IUEyC9HDOu pic.twitter.com/MTVOzKVjQF

— IBEW (@IBEW) May 20, 2025

Fire Fighters:

❗Happy #EMSforChildrenDay! 

Today, we recognize EMS professionals for their skill, focus, and dedication to providing lifesaving care to kids in emergencies.

Thanks to @emscimprovement for supporting this vital work. pic.twitter.com/ETQuZoCmsd

— International Association of Fire Fighters (@IAFFofficial) May 21, 2025

Heat and Frost Insulators:

A Statewide Honor Meets Family Legacy 🏆
Jeremiah Azevedo, from Local 135, out of Las Vegas, Nevada, earns Nevada Insulator Apprentice of the Year.

Following in his families footsteps, Jeremiah becomes Local 135’s first fourth-generation insulator: great-grandfather, Joe… pic.twitter.com/vyQO3S8nDo

— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) May 16, 2025

International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers:

ACTION ALERT: Federal tax credits are creating thousands of union jobs for SMART members. But some in Congress are trying to eliminate key parts of these credits.

Tell Congress: Stand with SMART members. Protect these tax credits. Protect our jobs.https://t.co/dvcauwClwR

— SMART Union (@smartunionworks) May 20, 2025

International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers:

Matt Biggs, President of the IFPTE, joined radio legend Ed Ferenc on the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the potential impact of proposed federal workforce cuts and more. https://t.co/SlkWKeltHj

— IFPTE (@IFPTE) May 13, 2025

Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:

“All persons born in the United States are citizens.” That’s the law under the 14th Amendment.
But now, the Trump Administration is trying to create a second class of Americans. Today, the Supreme Court hears CASA v. Trump. pic.twitter.com/Bt4ZkcZ0MA

— LCLAA (@LCLAA) May 15, 2025

Laborers:

At the 79th Annual Eastern Seaboard Apprenticeship Committee (ESAC) Conference, Senior Policy Analyst Rebecca Rougier spoke on the challenges women face in construction—highlighting LIUNA’s new maternity leave policy as a major step toward equity, retention, and support for women… pic.twitter.com/nDMBSPpK5G

— LIUNA (@LIUNA) May 21, 2025

Major League Baseball Players Association:

Congratulations, Aaron Nola, on being named the next Players Trust Most Valuable Philanthropist! 

During the @Phillies 2024 season, Nola donated $1,000 per strikeout to @TeamRWB, contributing a total of $197,000 for his 197 Ks. Nola has also helped raise $250,000 for ALS… pic.twitter.com/DcPAoZ6ABV

— MLBPA (@MLBPA) May 14, 2025

Major League Soccer Players Association:

The entire MLSPA joins the soccer community in remembering Gadi Kinda. Our thoughts are with those who knew and loved him. pic.twitter.com/zhddF2xtCu

— MLSPA (@MLSPA) May 20, 2025

Maritime Trades Department:

MTD Charts Courses for Bolstering Maritime, Protecting Workers’ Rightshttps://t.co/8MWROZTaRf

— Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO (@Maritime_Trades) May 16, 2025

Musical Artists:

This 3yr agreement brings across-the-board wage increases, expanded sick leave/PTO, year-round health insurance for returning Artists, & more. These hard-fought wins by the negotiating committee build a stronger foundation for all Sarasota Ballet Artists: https://t.co/Uq2LbaUR9p pic.twitter.com/QQsc0wbFC0

— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) May 15, 2025

National Air Traffic Controllers Association:

This week NATCA President Nick Daniels gave interviews to @NPRJoel, @Grady_Trimble of @FoxBusiness, @Kilmeade of @FoxandFriends, @SweeneyABC and @PeteMuntean of @CNN supporting @SecDuffy’s plan to “supercharge” controller hiring & modernize ATC tech. pic.twitter.com/qyQbd92wSL

— NATCA (@NATCA) May 20, 2025

National Association of Letter Carriers:

“Congressman Connolly was a true champion for letter carriers and all federal employees. He was a strong leader who always fought to protect letter carriers and the Postal Service. We appreciate his years of unwavering fight, and we send our sincerest condolences to his family.”… https://t.co/xsoDYxYRox

— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) May 21, 2025

National Domestic Workers Alliance:

Last week in Arizona, we kicked off our #SaveMedicaidSummer to hold our elected leaders accountable. @RepCiscomani, it's time to do your job and protect Medicaid! pic.twitter.com/wtr6FZEt3J

— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) May 20, 2025

National Hockey League Players’ Association:

"It was visual on me. I lost my hair, my eyebrows were gone."

For Matt Benning, diversifying his focus off the ice through NHLPA UNLMT helped improve his overall mental well-being. Benning tells his story this #MentalHealthAwarenessMonth 👇 pic.twitter.com/GZxbM2mSBd

— NHLPA (@NHLPA) May 21, 2025

National Nurses United:

It's not just nurses sounding the alarm: An independent monitor says they're looking closely at the quality of care at @HCAHealthcare's Mission Hospital in Asheville, NC.https://t.co/apMoLgD6Qu

— NationalNursesUnited (@NationalNurses) May 20, 2025

NFL Players Association:

A statement from NFLPA Executive Director Lloyd Howell on NFL player participation in the Olympics. pic.twitter.com/FN6BFJ61uE

— NFLPA (@NFLPA) May 20, 2025

North America's Building Trades Unions:

Infrastructure doesn’t build itself. It takes skill, training, and a workforce that shows up and delivers day in and day out. 

Union tradespeople are the foundation of America’s infrastructure. Always have been, always will be.#InfrastructureWeek

— The Building Trades (@NABTU) May 16, 2025

NWSL Players Association:

You’ve shown such courage - cheering you on every step of the way. https://t.co/S7PV3KolYc

— NWSLPA (@nwsl_players) May 18, 2025

Painters and Allied Trades:

Our members are the best at what they do! We work safely, efficiently, and our skills have helped build this country -- that's why it's a no brainer for contractors to choose to partner with us. https://t.co/a3ENoY6v4D

— IUPAT (@GoIUPAT) May 21, 2025

Professional Hockey Players’ Association:

The PHPA is saddened to learn of the sudden passing of ECHL Chairman of the Board and CEO of the Utah Grizzlies, Kevin Bruder. Our thoughts are with Kevin’s friends and family, as well as the entire Utah hockey club and the larger ECHL family during this difficult time. https://t.co/WkLYsVa6xj

— PHPA (@thephpa) May 14, 2025

Professional Aviation Safety Specialists:

On behalf of #federalemployees we represent, PASS sends its condolences to @GerryConnolly family. He was a fierce warrior in his support of public servants who are dedicated professionals working on behalf of American public. He will be sorely missed but we will soldier on. https://t.co/eELWpx74Yi

— PASS (@PASSNational) May 21, 2025

Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:

Our shop stewards in Tennessee went through a training this past weekend bolstering skills to ensure members have the best representation at work and the latest news and updates on labor law. Our stewards are members best resource on the floor every day. #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/YrL2kNNhH7

— RWDSU (@RWDSU) May 21, 2025

Roofers and Waterproofers:

Did you know?

As a charter union of the Union Sportsmen’s Alliance, Roofers & Waterproofers get FREE membership!
🎯 Gun giveaways
🎣 Hunting & fishing trips
🛠️ Volunteer projects
📖 Outdoor journal & more!
Learn more: https://t.co/R7DIlbAGYe#UnionSportsmen #RoofersOutdoors pic.twitter.com/TvJgFYaRlw

— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) May 20, 2025

SAG-AFTRA:

The new SAG-AFTRA magazine has crucial information any #SagAftraMember should know, from the #VideoGameStrike to contract information and MORE! Check it out and get informed: https://t.co/BubI824JiX pic.twitter.com/PGZAEUv6hc

— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) May 21, 2025

Service Employees International Union:

🔥 At 1:10 AM we are still on the frontlines fighting — because Medicaid isn’t just some line item, it’s a lifeline. #ProtectMedicaid pic.twitter.com/xbG4bpTh8C

— SEIU (@SEIU) May 21, 2025

Solidarity Center:

Believe in fair pay, safe jobs & economic justice across borders? Join us➡️https://t.co/7BqDXeZ3dT

Workers in #Malaysia's electronics supply chain who make semiconductors, a part of nearly all electronics, are using collective bargaining to address & prevent hazards on the job pic.twitter.com/3DtO4v6kUY

— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) May 13, 2025

The NewsGuild-CWA:

🤖 Artificial intelligence is being used in newsrooms to publish error-ridden stories with no human oversight. But journalists are drawing the line.

Guild members have won enforceable AI protections in over 35 contracts — one of the only national frameworks for AI accountability pic.twitter.com/kxMfE8cTX0

— The NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) May 20, 2025

Theatrical Stage Employees:

The past week for AI Policy in the US was the good, the bad and the ugly.

Workers in creative fields deserve protection from having their copyrighted work taken and used to train AI models built to replace them. https://t.co/VyQ3gbKHh9 pic.twitter.com/l0MqS4ySBl

— IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) May 20, 2025

Transport Workers Union:

TWU Local 106 and the NJ/NY State Conference lobbied lawmakers in Albany today on critical legislation re- bus lanes, pensions, and the protection of school bus drivers. pic.twitter.com/o4wmZPpqgo

— TWU (@transportworker) May 13, 2025

Transportation Trades Department:

During #InfrastructureWeek 2025, @TTDAFLCIO is proud to announce that @opcmiaintl became our 38th affiliated union! By placing & finishing concrete and applying plaster products, these workers have an essential role in building U.S. infrastructure, transportation projects & more. pic.twitter.com/IaA14EuoyU

— TTD | America's Transportation Unions (@TTDAFLCIO) May 14, 2025

UAW:

The UAW Family Scholarship Program is a great opportunity to learn more about our union while building new friendships along the way. This year's program will be held July 20-25 at the Walter & May Reuther Education Center at Black Lake. 

Find out more about the 2025 Family… pic.twitter.com/TcuWYHqA82

— UAW (@UAW) May 21, 2025

Union Label and Service Trades Department:

A group of divers at SeaWorld’s Discovery Cove theme park in Orlando unanimously voted to unionize last week, forming the first union at the aquatic-themed resort. https://t.co/QXdvc6krNw

— Union Label Dept. (@ULSTD_AFLCIO) May 15, 2025

UNITE HERE:

Congratulations to Sodexo food service workers at BAE Systems in NH for ratifying their first contract today! Workers will get $3 per hour wage increases over the life of the contract as well as union health and dental plans, and a union pension for a dignified retirement! pic.twitter.com/7o2JyejVhD

— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) May 18, 2025

United Food and Commercial Workers:

Take control of your future w/ UFCW U-Learn!

Flexible programs are designed to fit your busy life, so you can earn a degree without sacrificing your time or budget. Unlimited courses are available for no more than $5,250 per calendar year.

➡️ https://t.co/YGlm5PKo9e pic.twitter.com/fxpaTbpwfE

— UFCW (@UFCW) May 20, 2025

United Steelworkers:

We asked retired activist Bill Pienta to share his advice for our NextGen siblings just beginning their union journey. His top tip? Listen to SOAR members. Their stories are packed with hard-earned wisdom and experience, and there’s a lot to learn from them. pic.twitter.com/Jl9v8SmZqX

— United Steelworkers Union (@steelworkers) May 21, 2025

Writers Guild of America East:

The following is a statement from the WGAE on Trump Administration cuts to PBS KIDS funding: pic.twitter.com/6yo6i4Bsaa

— Writers Guild of America East (@WGAEast) May 20, 2025

Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 05/21/2025 - 09:55

Tell Congress: No Cuts That Hurt Working Families, Kids and Retirees

Right now, House leadership is pushing through a budget that would have the largest cuts in history to Medicaid and to SNAP food assistance, as well as more cuts to retirement benefits for federal workers.

Make a Call.

Health care, food assistance, dignity in retirement—these programs are a cornerstone of a secure existence for working people. Here’s why:

No Cuts to Medicaid

• Medicaid is the single largest source of health care coverage in the United States.
• It is the primary payer for 63% of nursing home residents.
• It pays for 42% of births in the United States each year and provides health care for nearly half of all children in our country.
• Medicaid funding cuts would cause hospitals, clinics, nursing homes and home health agencies to close or downsize, especially in rural and lower-income communities. One analysis shows that cuts could cause 477,000 health care jobs to be lost in 2026 alone.
• Medicaid cuts would cause millions of people to lose their health care, including kids and our most vulnerable Americans, and cuts would raise health care and insurance costs for everyone else. 

No Cuts to Food Assistance

• 42 million people use SNAP food assistance per month, or almost 13% total of U.S. residents. Working families depend on SNAP to get by and to provide nutritious, healthy food for their children to grow and thrive.
• Cuts to food assistance jeopardize thousands of jobs in food processing, school cafeterias, retail and agriculture.
• Pushing the costs of food assistance to states with already strained budgets threatens many other services and jobs that our families and communities rely on. 

No Cuts to Workers’ Retirement Benefits or Union Rights

• Like all workers, federal employees deserve a fair and dignified retirement after a lifetime of hard work. But earlier versions of the budget deal have contained cuts to federal workers’ retirement benefits and cuts to their current take-home pay.
• Other provisions in versions of the budget deal have required new federal workers to choose between at-will status and lower employee pension contributions, or to be charged a fee to file a claim with the Merit Systems Protection Board to protect their rights.
• Federal workers who run the programs and services we all depend on—and who are already facing job losses and historic union-busting—should not have to pay for tax breaks for billionaires.

No Weakening of Artificial Intelligence (AI) Protections for Workers

• Lawmakers snuck a provision into the House budget deal that blocks the enforcement of all existing or future state and local AI regulations for the next 10 years.
• State lawmakers across the country have come together to pass legislation that regulates dangerous and irresponsible artificial intelligence (AI)—creating guardrails that protect workers’ jobs, safety and civil liberties, and prevent discrimination or the theft of artists' work. This provision would stop that good work.
• This provision is so broad it would even prevent states from enforcing safety regulations related to automated systems, like public transit systems.
• This provision is an irresponsible gift to Big Tech companies and employers to maximize their profits and control. Especially since Congress has not acted to protect workers, states must be allowed to pass regulations to stop the unsafe, unethical, antidemocratic and antiworker use of AI in the workplace. 

Gutting essential services like Medicaid, SNAP food assistance and federal worker benefits won’t help working families—especially to pay for more tax breaks for billionaires and giant corporations. And the domino effects of cutting these huge and vital programs would be severe and wide-reaching. 

We need you to speak out today. Tell Congress this budget would be a disaster for working families and for our nation. 

Call your representative at 231-400-0602 to tell them, “No cuts that hurt working families!” 

Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 05/21/2025 - 09:40

Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month Profile: Lenny Guerrero

For Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month this year, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights in the United States. Today's profile is Lenny Guerrero of the Bricklayers.

“My father was a supervisor for a masonry company, and he used to take me with him on weekends when I was growing up. I fell in love with the trade and became fascinated by the idea of building structures that stand the test of time. Masonry has shaped who I am today. Training is my way of giving back to the trade and community that have given so much to me,” Guerrero said.
 

Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 05/21/2025 - 09:27

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: VFX Workers Ratify First Three Contracts with Major U.S. Studios

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.

Visual effects (VFX) workers for Marvel Studios, Walt Disney Pictures and movie franchise Avatar voted overwhelmingly to ratify their first contracts as Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) members.

The agreements are a major step forward for the VFX industry, establishing important standard union protections such as overtime pay, a pension and health plan, enforceable rest periods and more. Marvel workers voted unanimously to join IATSE in 2023, and their counterparts at Disney secured a similar election victory one month later. Avatar VFX workers joined the union in January of last year.

“I am so proud of my fellow union members for all their hard work through which we have achieved this contract,” said Patrick DeVaney, a postvis coordinator, in a press release. “While we are used to pouring our blood and sweat into our work, unionizing requires something more: our courage. It takes an incredible amount of courage to stand up to management who will always seek to devalue labor in the pursuit of profit margins and your own coworkers who have labored for so long as a part of a non-unionized workforce that they were convinced unionizing would be impossible.”

Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 05/21/2025 - 09:21

The First Line of Defense Against Wage Theft: 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.

Alaska AFL-CIO:

Lawmakers, stand strong. Alaska's kids are counting on you to do the right thing and #RaiseTheAKBSA! #Overridehttps://t.co/lIiRUxDzNo

— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) May 19, 2025

California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:

A reminder: when we fight, we win. Also, solidarity between the building trades and hotel workers creates real change in the tourism industry! 

Congratulations to our San Diego unions! https://t.co/RvJMp6mzOE

— California Federation of Labor Unions (@CaliforniaLabor) May 16, 2025

Colorado AFL-CIO:

⁦@GovofCO⁩ vetoed SB5. But we're not backing down!

In 2026, we're bringing a "just cause" ballot initiative to protect Colorado workers from unjust termination by preventing employers from firing without a documented reason. #coleg

Statement: https://t.co/5I3wpVUubC pic.twitter.com/vLJOvNkuyY

— Colorado AFL-CIO ✊ (@AFLCIOCO) May 16, 2025

Illinois AFL-CIO:

Carrie Lee Patterson is a big fan of the red line. In fact, she sent it a love letter -- in the form of an award winning set of short stories. Listen to @ActorsEquity and @sagaftra member Carrie Lee Patterson speak about why she supports a solution for transit in Illinois. pic.twitter.com/QSBzblJ945

— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) May 20, 2025

Maine AFL-CIO:

“I don’t think the public really understands what veterans who serve in combat go through and see. You don’t unsee the things you’ve seen." — Scott Surette, Mail Handlers https://t.co/Gjir44qexT

— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) May 15, 2025

Massachusetts AFL-CIO:

“The ripple effects of this PLA will be felt for decades, creating stable pathways to home ownership, to save for the future, and building stronger, safer communities” @MetroBTC 

Boston strikes deal opening union job opportunities for Madison Park grads https://t.co/lYhlWKdULa

— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) May 15, 2025

Michigan State AFL-CIO:

mic drop 🎤 pic.twitter.com/Plv4vMwstS

— Michigan AFL-CIO ✊ (@MIAFLCIO) May 19, 2025

Minnesota AFL-CIO:

Powerful piece from @IUPAT82's Jeff Stark: "We are the first line of defense. When a worker is being cheated, they can’t just call 911. But they can call a union." #mnleg #BetterInAUnion https://t.co/Ew9JfjDvSe

— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) May 16, 2025

Missouri AFL-CIO:

So grateful for our brothers & sisters in #STL out doing nonstop utility restoration: IUOE 513; SMW 36; IBEW 1; IBEW 1439; Electrical Contractors STL; KCI Construction; Mid Am. Carpenters Union; Alberici Construction; Marshall Wrecking; Spirtas Wrecking; Gas workers 11-6 & more pic.twitter.com/gPEu3R5agS

— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) May 18, 2025

Nebraska State AFL-CIO:

"THANK YOU State Senators for fighting back the carve outs on the minimum wage ballot initiative. This has been a tough session and we want you to know how much you are appreciated. Stopping this bad bill is a win for workers in Nebraska!" pic.twitter.com/1RUEAn3N11

— NE State AFL-CIO (@NEAFLCIO) May 14, 2025

Nevada State AFL-CIO:

The Nevada State AFL-CIO is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Richard "Rich" Miller — a lifelong unionist, teacher, and organizer whose tireless advocacy, vision, and leadership transformed the lives of working people. 

Read Full Press Release: https://t.co/1ScVDuen1l pic.twitter.com/NqNyikg56K

— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) May 17, 2025

New York State AFL-CIO:

The Union Movement thanks @GovKathyHochul for championing the thousands of union members who will work on the Empire Wind Project. Full statement from NYS AFL-CIO President Mario Cilento: https://t.co/Jdsoo4ai2B

— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) May 19, 2025

North Carolina State AFL-CIO:

May 8th was the crossover deadline at #NCGA. Read our report the good, the bad, and the dead bills that were never given a chance to improve the lives of working families at https://t.co/xgaNDTHMOK. #1u pic.twitter.com/xHRQXfwy0l

— NC State AFL-CIO (@ncstateaflcio.bsky.social) (@NCStateAFLCIO) May 16, 2025

Oregon AFL-CIO:

Workers sat down with Oregon lawmakers earlier this year to make the hard ask: will you vote Yes on SB 916A: unemployment for striking workers? Help us hold elected officials accountable. Write to your state rep now and demand they vote yes on SB 916A. https://t.co/r0PcnhVQIV pic.twitter.com/30gCKAIhP4

— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) May 20, 2025

Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:

The NIOSH Mining Program is the only federal research program keeping U.S. mine workers safe—and it’s being dismantled.

Miners deserve better. Call your Senators and Representatives and demand that they reinstate all NIOSH workers. NOW. pic.twitter.com/wd2VgVGNqi

— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) May 18, 2025

Texas AFL-CIO:

NEW: At this moment when federal workers are under attack, @AFGENational President Everett Kelley is coming to Texas to discuss our next steps.

Join us in San Antonio on June 26-28 to hear from national labor leaders about our path to building a labor movement as BIG as Texas! pic.twitter.com/bw22sGsQty

— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) May 20, 2025

Virginia AFL-CIO:

We remain firmly committed to the repeal of so-called “Right to Work” in the Commonwealth. https://t.co/xQHmYlph3P

— Virginia AFL-CIO (@Virginia_AFLCIO) May 13, 2025

Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:

UI for Striking Workers was signed into law today‼️Many thanks to our bill sponsor Sen. Riccelli, Labor chairs Sen. Saldaña & Rep. Berry, & Rep. Doglio, who sponsored the bill last year
Most of all, thank you to the thousands of workers who fought for this bill. This is your win! pic.twitter.com/LiVgG13qGT

— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) May 20, 2025

Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:

WI AFL-CIO President Bloomingdale will be testifying shortly against Senate Bill 256 a bill that would remove employee status from gig workers and therefore deprive workers of rights like worker’s compensation, overtime pay, and unemployment insurance.

— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) May 20, 2025

Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 05/20/2025 - 11:23

Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month Profile: Amy Chin-Lai

For Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month this year, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights in the United States. Today's profile is Amy Chin-Lai of IFPTE.

Amy Chin-Lai is the president of the Nonprofit Professional Employees Union, IFPTE Local 70, which represents thousands of nonprofit workers at more than 50 organizations in Washington, D.C., and nationwide. A fourth-generation Chinese-American, she carries forward her family's resilience through her work empowering other member leaders and advocating for dignity, equity and fair pay. Chin-Lai was recently honored by the Metropolitan Washington Council, AFL-CIO,– winning their inaugural emerging leader award. She is proud to be part of a movement and union that amplifies the voices of marginalized people in the workplace.

Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 05/20/2025 - 10:03

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: AFL-CIO, Labor Unions File Amicus Brief in Humanitarian Parole Supreme Court Case

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.

On Friday, the AFL-CIO and a coalition of unions representing workers in the manufacturing, hospitality, construction, food processing and service industries filed an amicus brief urging the Supreme Court to deny the Trump administration’s attempt to end humanitarian parole and rescind work authorization for immigrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua and Venezuela.

The brief is co-authored by the AFL-CIO, Service Employees International Union, UAW, UNITE HERE, United Food and Commercial Workers, Painters and Allied Trades, IUE-CWA, and Bricklayers.

“Our immigrant brothers, sisters and siblings from these nations came to the United States to flee danger at home, and while here have been legally working and contributing to our economy while supporting their families,” said AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler. “Ripping them away from their families and homes is a grave injustice that will have harmful ripple effects across our workplaces, our industries, and our economy. We are proud to file this amicus brief alongside our affiliated unions representing workers in key American industries, including those like food processing and manufacturing that cannot function without the work of these immigrants. We call on the Supreme Court to reject the Trump administration’s effort to deport these valued members of our workplaces and communities.”

Read the full press release here.

Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 05/20/2025 - 09:57

Get to Know AFL-CIO's Affiliates: Boilermakers

This is the next post in our series that will take a deeper look at each of our affiliates. The series will run weekly until we’ve covered all 63 of our affiliates. Next up are the Boilermakers (IBB).

Name of Union: International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, Iron Ship Builders, Blacksmiths, Forgers and Helpers

Mission: Uniting members across multiple industries and occupations in the union’s common endeavor of improving each other’s lives and lifestyles through union representation.

Current Leadership of Union: Timothy Simmons serves as international president. He began his Boilermaker career on a boiler outage in 1999, working out of Boilermakers Local 108, in Birmingham, Alabama, at the Alabama Power Miller Steam Plant. He has served as a Local 108 business agent/secretary treasurer, District Lodge 3 officer, director of National Recruitment Services, director of Construction Division Services and assistant to the international president. In October 2022, the International Executive Council voted unanimously to elect Simmons to fill the international vice president Southeast vacancy, effective Feb. 1, 2023, upon the retirement of Warren Fairley. Fairley briefly came out of retirement to serve the union as international president during a time of transition. Upon his final retirement in August 2024, the International Executive Council elected Simmons to serve as international president.

Clinton Penny serves as international secretary-treasurer, and the Boilermakers have five international vice presidents: J. Tom Baca (Western States), John Fultz (Northeast), Arnie Stadnick (Canada), Dan Sulivan (Great Lakes) and Jeff Campbell (Southeast).

Current Number of Members: More than 60,000

Members Work in: Constructing and repairing electric power plants, refineries, and pulp, paper and steel mills; building naval ships and commercial tankers; repairing locomotives; making cement; mining coal, gypsum and talc; forging tools for industry; and making consumer goods.

Industries Represented: Heavy industry, shipbuilding, manufacturing, railroads, cement, mining and others.

History: The Boilermakers are one of the oldest unions in the country, rising out of the Industrial Revolution’s demand for steam power in 1880. The Boilermakers have been a part of many major events in American history, helping to build structural sections of the Gateway Arch in St. Louis; the machinery to make the Panama Canal; the world’s first nuclear submarine, the USS Nautilus; the USS New York amphibious transport dock (which includes steel from the Twin Towers); military ships and various submarines; nuclear, gas-fired and advanced coal-fired power plants; and the aluminum-based fuel for the space shuttle’s solid rocket boosters. The Boilermakers had been headquartered in Kansas City, Kansas, since 1893, and moved to Kansas City, Missouri, in 2024. There are now more than 200 Boilermaker local lodges across North America.

Current Campaigns/Community Efforts: The Boilermaker Reporter provides news and information useful to workers in the industry. The Boilermakers have established national funds for pensions, health and welfare, and an annuity trust. They also provide education and training, including one of the best apprentice programs in the country, and are partners in an award-winning alliance with construction industry contractors and owners, resulting in innovations for improved safety, manpower availability, training and cost savings.

Learn More: Website, Facebook, X, YouTube

Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 05/19/2025 - 14:33

This Is Progress: 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 Unions File Lawsuit Against HHS to Restore NIOSH: “The coalition, which includes the AFL-CIO, the United Mine Workers of America and Dentec Safety, filed a petition May 14 in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. The unions call on Kennedy to ‘resume immediately all activities that NIOSH performed before’ recent cuts to the agency workforce—some of which have recently been reversed.”

Kennedy Center Employees Announce Plans to Unionize: “The union, which they’re calling the ‘Kennedy Center United Arts Workers,’ would be in partnership with the International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America, commonly known as the UAW. It would consist of nonsupervisory employees from artistic programming, education, marketing and development departments, along with administrators of the Washington National Opera and the National Symphony Orchestra. Performers are covered by several different unions.”

Divers at Orlando's Discovery Cove Theme Park Unanimously Vote to Unionize: “A group of divers at SeaWorld’s Discovery Cove theme park in Orlando unanimously voted to unionize last week, forming the first union at the aquatic-themed resort. According to the National Labor Relations Board, which conducts union elections in the private sector, the group of divers and dive technicians unanimously voted (15-0) in favor of unionizing with the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 30, in an election that featured 100% voter turnout.”

SAG-AFTRA and Nickelodeon Reach Tentative Agreement on Animation Contract: “Nickelodeon has agreed to ‘commonsense’ AI protections for voice actors on animated shows like The Patrick Star Show and Dora the Explorer, according to performers’ union SAG-AFTRA. The union announced on Wednesday that it had reached a tentative deal with Nickelodeon over voice acting on animated programs for basic cable and Paramount+. With covered projects including ‘Rugrats,’ ‘The Loud House,’ ‘Kamp Koral’ and ‘Rock Paper Scissors,’ the three-year provisional contract also brings some rate increases, a new premium and faster payment due dates.”

SAG-AFTRA’s New Audio Commercials Contract Revamps Structure, Expands AI Protections: “The audio advertising business is posted to get a significant overhaul for union voiceover talent. Under the tentative 2025 SAG-AFTRA Commercials Contracts deal, a new structure for audio commercials has been introduced—one that simplifies compensation, reflects current media consumption habits, and includes the union’s strongest protections yet against the misuse of artificial intelligence. The agreement covers April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2028. The three-year deal nets out to $218.4 million in new earnings and benefit contributions. It currently awaits ratification by SAG-AFTRA members ahead of a May 21 voting deadline. If adopted, the audio contract will cover about 2,200 union voice talent members.”

Lawmakers Reintroduce Bill to Set Minimum Nurse-to-Patient Ratios: “Two Democratic senators and a representative reintroduced a bill May 12 that would create minimum nurse-to-patient staffing ratios at hospitals across the country. Sens. Alex Padilla, D-Calif., Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., and Rep. Jan Shakowsky, D-Ill.,  reintroduced the Nurse Staffing Standards for Hospital Patient Safety and Quality Care Act on International Nurses Day. The bill would require hospitals to develop annual staffing plans that meet the minimum staffing ratios set forth in the legislation. Hospitals would also be required to maintain records of RN staffing and post notices of minimum ratios. Additionally, the legislation would provide whistleblower protections for nurses who speak out against unsafe staffing practices. HHS would be tasked with enforcing minimum ratios through civil penalties and administrative complaints.”

Protect Federal Incentives for Clean Energy Projects: “Energy demand is rising, and with it, utility bills are getting harder to afford. But we can’t just wring our hands and maintain the status quo. There are good reasons why electricity demand is going up. We’re building 21st-century technologies like AI and data centers. We’re electrifying things like cars and heating systems that have pumped dirty pollutants into our air for too long. This is progress. We need to meet the moment by building affordable clean energy and doing so in a way that creates high-quality union jobs for Washingtonians. Luckily, we have a powerful tool to help us do that: federal tax incentives for clean energy development.”

Union for Nearly 1,000 University of Minnesota Resident Physicians Certified by State: “Nearly 1,000 resident physicians at the University of Minnesota are officially unionized with SEIU Committee of Interns and Residents after a state labor board certified on Friday that a majority of residents signed union cards. The certification comes on the heels of more than 200 resident physicians at Hennepin Healthcare achieving certification last month as the first union of resident physicians in Minnesota. ‘We work very hard to take care of people all over the Twin Cities and beyond, and burnout is a real problem,’ said Dr. Kaitlin McLean in a statement released by the union. ‘It’s essential that we have a seat at the table so we can care for ourselves and our patients, and so that we can stay here in Minnesota doing that critical work.’”

Tufts Student Released from U.S. Immigration Custody After Judge's Order: “U.S. District Judge William Sessions during a hearing in Burlington, Vermont, ordered the immediate release of Rumeysa Ozturk, who is at the center of one of the highest-profile cases to emerge from Republican President Donald Trump's campaign to deport pro-Palestinian activists on American campuses.”

Blizzard's Overwatch Team Just Unionized: 'What I Want to Protect Most Here Is the People': “‘Game developers behind Activision Blizzard’s hit franchise Overwatch have joined the Communications Workers of America (CWA), becoming the latest group of video game workers at Microsoft-owned studios to form a wall-to-wall union,’ the CWA announced in a press release shared with Kotaku on Friday. ‘A neutral arbitrator confirmed today that an overwhelming majority of workers have either signed a union authorization card or indicated that they wanted union representation via an online portal.’”

Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 05/19/2025 - 13:00

Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month Profile: Davlynn Racadio and Melia Johnson

For Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month this year, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights in the United States. Today's profile is Davlynn Racadio and Melia Johnson of AFSCME.

With more than two decades of experience in emergency dispatch, Hawaii Government Employees Association (HGEA/AFSCME) members Davlynn Racadio and Melia Johnson were some of the first voices heard when victims of the 2023 Maui wildfires called 911 for help. They handled more than 4,000 calls in a 24-hour period, earning them national recognition for their extraordinary service.

Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 05/19/2025 - 09:40

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Norse Atlantic Airways Flight Attendants Ratify New 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.

U.S.-based Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA-CWA) members who work for Norse Atlantic Airways voted overwhelmingly in support of ratifying a new contract.

The Norwegian low-cost, long-haul airline was founded in 2021 and has a flight attendant base in John F. Kennedy International Airport. Highlights of the deal include provisions that ensure job security, raise total compensation with the highest per diem in the industry, increase the number of sick days and more.

“This contract provides Norse Flight Attendants with certainty and guaranteed economic and work rule improvements. The contract provides much-needed quality of life as Norse charts the path forward,” said Norse AFA President Katarzyna Mroczek.

Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 05/19/2025 - 09:35

Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month Profile: Betty Chow

For Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month this year, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights in the United States. Today's profile is Betty Chow of IATSE.

Betty Chow has worked as an "A" Second Assistant Camera on the third season of "All American: Homecoming.” She serves on the International Cinematographers Guild (ICG) Local 600 National Executive Board, and is co-chair of the inclusion committee. Chow has been a Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) member for 25 years and enjoys serving as a resource for her fellow IATSE members. "I am part of an organization of skilled workers who have each other's backs through the hard times, and we share the joy in the good times. Being an IATSE member has enabled me to master my craft and be respected as a worker."

Kenneth Quinnell Sun, 05/18/2025 - 13:44