Let Us Work: 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:

Yesterday, @NALC_National Local 4319 here in Alaska said "HELL NO" to any attempt from Trump to privatize the USPS. Hundreds of letter carriers and union siblings showed up to protect the government institution that has been around longer than our Constitution. #FightLikeHell pic.twitter.com/sV0kzHmjfV

— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) March 24, 2025

Arizona AFL-CIO:

Over 1,000 garment workers are demanding @Nike give them the recognition and pay they deserve. We stand with them. #SeeUsNike. @johnwrogers @peterblairhenry @michelleapeluso https://t.co/xdZZsJUiCT

— Arizona AFL-CIO (@ArizonaAFLCIO) March 21, 2025

California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:

Workers have the right to organize. Period. 
This right – of free assembly, to organize, to form a union and to collectively bargain – is enshrined in law under the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), as well as in the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution and California… pic.twitter.com/bFOKDkGpqQ

— California Federation of Labor Unions (@CaliforniaLabor) March 24, 2025

Colorado AFL-CIO:

Solidarity with our AFGE workers! Please join AFGE Local 3607 tomorrow, Wednesday, March 26th, 12-1pm at 1550 Wewatta Street, Denver to rally against the Trump administration’s extensive and brutal attacks on federal workers’ job security and livelihoods ✊ pic.twitter.com/koDZ9Ke6W8

— Colorado AFL-CIO ✊ (@AFLCIOCO) March 25, 2025

Connecticut AFL-CIO:

CT AFL-CIO President @EHawthorne3 testifying today on the need to make our tax structure more equitable:

"We all know there's two Connecticuts – one for the rich, one for the poor." pic.twitter.com/rVAx5ciqXn

— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) March 24, 2025

Illinois AFL-CIO:

Marisa Richards, Director of Outreach and Engagement for the @GoIUPAT DC 30, joined the @AWFUnionPodcast to discuss her efforts in diversifying union membership and introducing the next generation to the trades at an early age.

Listen here:https://t.co/40mSrW79ig pic.twitter.com/mWSEhv57o3

— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) March 25, 2025

Iowa Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO:

Senator @ChuckGrassley and his staff tried to keep his “town hall” in Hampton today quiet by not publishing it, but word got out. This is the overflow of people who couldn’t get into the event. People are sick and tired of the Trump/Musk agenda! @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/47QMVskUea

— Iowa AFL-CIO ✊ (@IowaAFLCIO) March 21, 2025

Kentucky State AFL-CIO:

Stand up. Fight back. Walk-in!

This morning, union members and community allies stood alongside educators and students during walk-ins across Kentucky, showing up to defend public schools and the people who make them strong. 

Watch out for more walk-ins through March 21 ✊ pic.twitter.com/QObp1tVUGR

— Kentucky AFL-CIO (@aflcioky) March 19, 2025

Maine AFL-CIO:

Nurses and allies today marched into @SenatorCollins office to deliver a message loud & clear: Stand up for Maine People. Hands Off Medicaid! @NationalNurses pic.twitter.com/FMWj6CGFyq

— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) March 20, 2025

Massachusetts AFL-CIO:

Proud to stand with @RaiseUpMA in calling for billionaire global corporations to pay their fair share. #mapoli

Group behind 'millionaire's tax' calls for tax on 'billionaire' corporations https://t.co/oXPolgbwNg

— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) March 25, 2025

Michigan State AFL-CIO:

How can you be patriotic when putting veterans’ benefits on the chopping block?

You can't.

Join us on Sat., March 29th in Ann Arbor to tell the draft-dodger in chief and Musk to put VA workers over billionaires. 🇺🇸✊

RSVP here: https://t.co/lAS8DyeJQC pic.twitter.com/Xh3GsK9kHW

— Michigan AFL-CIO ✊ (@MIAFLCIO) March 24, 2025

Minnesota AFL-CIO:

“We went into medicine because we want to take care of people, but at the heart of it, we just don’t think that great patient care should have to come at the expense of our well-being,” said Dr. Sofia Haile, a family medicine resident. #BetterInAUnion https://t.co/dCAw32KEOr

— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) March 24, 2025

Missouri AFL-CIO:

Join us this Saturday, March 29th, for a Solidarity Rally in support of federal #Workers who have been impacted by recent federal cuts and power grabs! #Solidarity #1u #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/ayVDklQxM9

— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) March 24, 2025

Nevada State AFL-CIO:

NALC branches hosted a rally yesterday to say: "Hell NO!" to dismantling the Postal Service.

President Trump & Elon Musk need to keep their Hands off USPS! pic.twitter.com/4V7TYqbWZo

— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) March 25, 2025

New York State AFL-CIO:

In 2023, women in NY earned 87 cents on the dollar compared to men according to a recent report by @NYSComptroller. The gender pay gap is unjust, and New York's union movement will never stop fighting to close it. #EqualPayDay pic.twitter.com/v1v1DKi9Rb

— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) March 25, 2025

North Carolina State AFL-CIO:

But seriously, @SenThomTillis, if it's money you need to show up, we've got five on it. 😜 Protestors gather outside NC Sen. Thom Tillis 2026 campaign fundraiser in Raleigh https://t.co/qXXUKLkyEL via @WNCN #1u

— NC State AFL-CIO (@ncstateaflcio.bsky.social) (@NCStateAFLCIO) March 21, 2025

Ohio AFL-CIO:

A few months ago, the #dropkickmurphys recorded a video in #Solidarity with the @ohiou faculty who were forming their #union with @AAUP @OFTunion. Today, those workers voted #UnionYes and joined the @AFLCIO labor movment. When workers across all professions unite, we win. pic.twitter.com/iCNO6T8szc

— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) March 24, 2025

Oregon AFL-CIO:

On March 25, 1911, a fire at the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory in Greenwich, NY, killed 146 workers after their employers locked the fire escape doors to prevent workers from leaving, leading 15,000 workers to walk off the job in NY’s garment district.https://t.co/07LZyeNzOe pic.twitter.com/uu8QxTFxuD

— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) March 25, 2025

Texas AFL-CIO:

🚨 The Texas Senate may vote on this bad bill as soon as TODAY. 

Help stand with Texas construction workers and tell your Senator to vote NO here: https://t.co/1RWzqWMYl8 #txlege #SB925 pic.twitter.com/1NEzi3uB3x

— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) March 25, 2025

Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:

US Mail is Not for Sale. https://t.co/Voz8PsWo66

— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) March 24, 2025

Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 03/25/2025 - 11:54

Women's History Month Profiles: Deborah Toussant

For Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Deborah Toussant of AFGE.

Deborah Toussant is the secretary-treasurer of AFGE Local 2094, the national women’s advisory coordinator of AFGE District 2 and the vice chair of AFGE’s National Human Rights Committee. She worked for the Veteran Affairs Medical Center in New York City for more than 34 years until she retired in 2019. She has continued her service and activism with AFGE and in her Harlem community. Toussant is a proud union woman who is willing to speak up for the voiceless and fight for civil, human, women’s and workers’ rights.

Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 03/25/2025 - 09:59

Tags: Women's History Month

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Skidmore Faculty Ratifies First Union 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.

Faculty represented by Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 200United at Skidmore College unanimously voted to ratify their first collective bargaining agreement (CBA) last week.

The new agreement between Skidmore Faculty Forward and the private liberal arts school covers full- and part-time faculty who are not on the tenure track. The core bargaining goal for members was longer renewable appointments—before the CBA, they worked on short contracts that lasted one to three years and then were terminated with no guarantee of being rehired. Fixing this serial job insecurity was a major highlight of the deal, in addition to increased salary minimums, full parental leave and more.

“We are elated that our first collective bargaining agreement has been ratified,” the union said in a statement. “We are incredibly proud of the hard work and thankful for the contributions, big and small, from so many of our colleagues and fellow union members. This contract would not be the life-changing and uplifting document that it is without their support. Thank you to the entire campus community for your support over the years. Together, we won huge gains and improvements in our working conditions and ultimately in our students’ learning conditions.”

Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 03/25/2025 - 09:58

Get to Know AFL-CIO's Affiliates: AFGE

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 is AFGE.

Name of Union: American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE)

Mission: For the purpose of promoting unity of action in all matters affecting the mutual interests of government civilian employees in general, all other persons providing their personal service indirectly to the U.S. government and for the improvement of government service.

Current Leadership of Union: Everett Kelley is currently serving his third term as AFGE’s national president. He began his first term of service as national president in February 2020, was elected to another term during the 42nd National Convention in June 2022, and was re-elected during the 43rd National Convention in August 2024. He has been a member of AFGE since 1981. He worked at Anniston Army Depot and retired from there after 30 years of service. Eric Bunn Sr. serves as national secretary-treasurer and Kendrick Roberson serves as national vice president for women and fair practices.

Current Number of Members: More than 820,000.

Members Work as: Nurses, correctional officers, doctors, Social Security professionals, TSA agents, law enforcement officers, park rangers and much more. AFGE represents almost every type of federal employee, and the agencies with the highest memberships are the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Social Security Administration, the Department of Defense, and the Department of Homeland Security.

Industries Represented: Members work for the federal government or the government of the District of Columbia.

History: AFGE formed in 1932, during the depths of the Great Depression. Federal employees were refused most of the rights they have today. Politicians had crippled the civil service, and AFGE’s founding members came together in opposition to these attacks. In the decades leading up to World War II, new chapters of the union began to form across the country. In the 1940s and ’50s, AFGE fought for and won a pay raise of nearly 16%, the largest increase for the federal government workforce in the country’s history. The union also won within-grade pay increases, transportation allowances, and payment for accrued annual leave, overtime, and night and holiday work. Finally, in 1962, federal workers secured the right to collectively bargain when President John F. Kennedy signed Executive Order 10988. Since then, AFGE has continued to fight for government workers and has won real bargaining rights and extended the dignity of a union contract to hundreds of thousands of Americans. Check out AFGE’s Labor History Timeline to learn more.

Current Campaigns: AFGE Strong works hard to keep members informed about the actions of the new presidential administration and to ensure our leaders have the resources to act. In related efforts, AFGE is working to Stop Project 2025. AFGE is fighting to protect the rights of Transportation Security Administration (TSA) workers; protect correctional officers; and protect official time for federal employees. AFGE offers members training and educational resources. It seeks to promote Health and Safety among members.

Community Efforts: The Women’s and Fair Practices Department, through education and training, member organizing and mobilization, legislative and political action, and representation through litigation, works with the union’s National Human Rights Committee to advance issues that impact AFGE members, their families, and their communities, including: federal and D.C. government workers’ rights, women’s rights and gender equity, racial justice, LGBTQIA+ rights, disability rights, voting rights, mental health and wellness, supporting working parents and families, domestic violence, conflict resolution and sexual harassment. AFGE is part of AFL-CIO Union Veterans Council whose mission is to inform, organize and mobilize union veterans. AFGE Y.O.U.N.G. seeks to mobilize young union members to become leaders for social change. HISCO supports professional advancement, leadership development and educational opportunities for AFGE members of Latino and Hispanic origin. The AFGE Retirees program advocates for a productive, healthy and secure retirement. AFGE Stewards are working people who have volunteered to connect members with their union. AFGE Pride is a national program designed to support the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, and others within the pride spectrum (LGBTQIA+) membership. AFGE B.L.A.C.K., or Black Leaders Advancing Change and Knowledge, exists to increase solidarity in AFGE by highlighting the issues specifically impacting our Black members. AFGE A.P.O.W.E.R., or Asian Pacific Organized Workers Empowering Representation, is here to advance the mission of diversity, equity and inclusion of all AFGE members, providing assistance and direct service to all AFGE members who identify as Asian American, Pacific Islander, and Native Hawaiian, and their allies. AFGE publishes The Government Standard, The WFP Quarterly and AFGE News. AFGE sells merchandise in its online store.

Learn More: Website, Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube

Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 03/24/2025 - 12:09

One Job Should Be Enough: 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.

‘See You in Court’: Teachers Union Vows to Fight Trump's Education Department Order: “Randi Weingarten, the head of the American Federation of Teachers, vowed to sue the administration if it moved forward with a mandate to obliterate the agency's limited federal role in the nation's schools.”

Protests Demanding No Privatization of Post Office Sweep the Nation: “‘Privatization shifts workers’ dollars from the public good to the corporate sector investor class,’ APWU President Mark Dimondstein said on March 10, announcing the upcoming events. ‘It’s not just us, but there’s a fast and furious effort’ by Trump and his handler, Musk, ‘to hollow out the government for enriching billionaires and launching a coup.’”

We Need to Protect Workers from Dangerous ‘Bossware’ Technology: “In an era where the lines between work and personal life are increasingly blurred, the rise of new worker surveillance and control technologies is creating a dystopian reality that demands urgent attention from policymakers. Legislation filed on Beacon Hill, An Act Fostering Artificial Intelligence Responsibility, known as the FAIR Act, would provide Massachusetts workers with much-needed protection against reckless and harmful uses of ‘bossware’ technologies. Employers use these electronic and algorithmic decision systems to automate managerial functions, including determining whether workers get a job, tracking workers’ locations and communications throughout—and sometimes even after—the workday, and deciding how much workers get paid and whether they get promoted, demoted, or fired.”

Hollywood Actors Take the Fight Against AI to Sacramento: “The bill is sponsored by the Screen Actors Guild–American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) and co-sponsored by the Creative Artists Agency and the National Association of Voice Actors. Joely Fisher, SAG-AFTRA secretary-treasurer and chair of its government affairs and public policy committee, said the fight over AI was at the heart of the union’s strike against the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers that ran 118 days in 2023. The language about AI in the contract wasn’t approved until the 11th hour, she said, ‘always knowing that we needed legislation to enforce some of the things that we talked about and our studio partners agreed to.’”

Everett Kelley: ‘As a Poor-Performing Probationary Employee, Elon Musk Must Go’: “Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) have been on the job for less than two months, but the early results are nothing short of disastrous. These include a series of airplane safety incidents, cancelled appointments at the VA, long lines outside national parks, and abandoned medical research. Through it all, there is an overriding sense that the world's richest man is using his power over President Donald Trump to steal from the public coffers and enrich himself.”

Nevada’s Grad Student Workforce Pushes for Collective Bargaining Rights: “Graduate students employed within the Nevada System of Higher Education say they have little recourse when dealing with hostile work environments, low pay, demanding workloads, and financial instability. Riley Jones, a PhD student studying life sciences at UNLV, said the current system leaves graduate workers at the whims of ‘our advisers, departments, and graduate colleges to support us when one demand, one responsibility, one job conflicts with another.’”

Washington Bill Aims to Extend Unemployment Benefits to Workers on Strike: “Sandee Flores had never been on strike before. But in October 2024, she and her co-workers at the DoubleTree Seattle Airport walked off the job, demanding better wages. Her father had been a union member too, and now she was the one holding the picket line. The strike lasted a week—short enough that Flores didn’t face serious financial hardship. But she saw the strain it put on many of her co-workers. Even a few days without pay meant tough choices: stretching every dollar, leaning on family, or turning to strike funds.”

‘One Job Should Be Enough’: How 9,000 Grocery Workers Are Banding Together in Minnesota: “Monica Duque never knows how many hours she is going to get in a given week. She works at the Jerry’s Cub Foods on East Lake Street at the front of the store, helping customers, overseeing cashiering, and running online shopping. She finds out her hours, she explains, “when the schedule is posted on Friday, for the week after next.’ ‘There is no consistency,’ says the 24-year-old, which makes it hard to save money, or plan much for the future. She makes a little over $20 an hour, and even being cut 10 hours in a week can have a big impact on her finances. ‘I can do morning one day then night shift the next day. I go from eight-hour days to barely getting seven-hour days. I can never really rely on how much money I’m going to make.’”

Colorado Would Become Second State to Limit When Workers Can Be Fired Under Union-Backed Ballot Measure: “Colorado would become the second ‘just-cause employment’ state in the U.S. should a measure proposed by state union leaders make the 2026 ballot and pass. Initiative 43 would prohibit companies with more than eight employees from firing or suspending a worker without just cause, which is defined in the measure as substandard performance, material neglect, repeated policy violation and gross insubordination. Conviction of a crime of ‘moral turpitude’—like murder, kidnapping and sexual assault—and an employer’s financial instability would also constitute just cause under the initiative. The proposal was filed by Dennis Dougherty, who leads the AFL-CIO in Colorado, and True Apodaca, political director at SEIU Local 105.”

Hawaiian Airlines Reaches Tentative Agreement with Flight Attendants on Contract Extension: “Hawaiian Airlines flight attendants reached a major milestone recently. The carrier, which was just recently acquired by Seattle-based Alaska Airlines, reached a tentative agreement with its flight attendant union for a contract extension. This new agreement, which will last for several years, comes with a variety of improved benefits for Hawaiian cabin crew. While the airline's flight attendants have not yet voted on the contract, each side seems optimistic regarding the agreement.”

Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 03/24/2025 - 10:46

Women's History Month Profiles: Angela Sheehan

For Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Angela Sheehan of the Heat and Frost Insulators (HFIU).

Angela Sheehan made history as the first female business agent in HFIU Local 34, breaking barriers and paving the way for women in leadership roles. As a true trailblazer, she has shown that dedication and passion for her work can drive real change within the industry. Her unwavering commitment to her job is evident in the way she consistently goes above and beyond, never needing to be asked to volunteer for challenges. Sheehan’s leadership and enthusiasm inspire others to follow in her footsteps, shaping a more inclusive and dynamic future.

Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 03/24/2025 - 10:06

Tags: Women's History Month

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: WGAE Announces Voluntary Recognition of Staff Union by Courier

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 Writers Guild of America East (WGAE) are pleased to announce that they have reached an agreement for the voluntary recognition of Courier’s staff union. The 50-member bargaining unit includes reporters, editors, designers and social media managers.

“We are pleased that COURIER has opted to voluntarily recognize our union at this crucial time when media workers everywhere are fighting for stronger protections against layoffs and better pay,” said the Courier United Organizing Committee. “We look forward to negotiating a strong contract that empowers every worker at COURIER as we navigate the ongoing transformation of our industry.”

Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 03/24/2025 - 09:49

Tags: Organizing

Protect Our Kids: 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:

ICYMI - Executive Director @avincentjr was recognized for his dedication to advocating for our members in @PoliticsNYnews 2025 Labor Power Players list. 

Check out the impressive list of labor leaders and advocates who made it this year. https://t.co/qzd9pbzl26 pic.twitter.com/VGlvvSRQTX

— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) March 20, 2025

AFGE:

What was the only thing to improve TSA employee engagement and satisfaction on the job? Collective bargaining and the 30% pay raises our union won for TSOs. https://t.co/9BF39pS1dP

— AFGE (@AFGENational) March 20, 2025

AFSCME:

We see these changes for what they are - a back door effort to undermine and cut Social Security.

They're making it significantly harder for disabled and rural Americans to access Social Security. We won't stand for it. https://t.co/bYwrAMvY4s

— AFSCME (@AFSCME) March 20, 2025

Alliance for Retired Americans:

Members in CT, MS, and FL are taking action to save Medicaid, support labor, and stop DOGE's Social Security attacks. We will never stop fighting for older and working Americans! #SaveMedicaid pic.twitter.com/bOws3hSxvG

— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) March 19, 2025

Amalgamated Transit Union:

Our Local 1573-Brampton, ON, members are united in their fight for a better contract. #ATUStrongerTogether https://t.co/ERIM3wl6m5 #1u #canlab @OFLabour #UnionStrong #Brampton

— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) March 20, 2025

American Federation of Teachers:

#ProtectOurKids pic.twitter.com/62Hmp8xwoP

— AFT (@AFTunion) March 20, 2025

American Postal Workers Union:

The Postal Service belongs to the people, not the billionaires. ✊ Join us on March 20 as we make our voices heard nationwide, “Hands Off Our Public Postal Service! – U.S. Mail is Not For Sale!” Find an event near you ➡️ : https://t.co/SoZlz9HBsK pic.twitter.com/K3rlj8gYst

— The American Postal Workers Union - APWU (@APWUnational) March 12, 2025

Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:

HAPPENING NOW: @AFAUnitedMEC Flight Attendants and allies are hitting the picket line at nearly 20 airports around the world to tell United management to get concessions off the table and deliver the industry-leading Contract we’ve earned! London & Guam kicking it off! #1u pic.twitter.com/eDOl1y9vaw

— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) March 19, 2025

Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers:

ON STRIKE 🪧 24 members of BCTGM Local 3G (Battle Creek, Mich.) who make Knappen Baking Flour in Augusta, Mich. 

Support them by sharing!#knappenmilling #knappenmillingstrike #ulpstrike #bctgmpower #onstrike pic.twitter.com/LKMTNh82iy

— BCTGM International (@BCTGM) March 13, 2025

Boilermakers:

Here's what L-83's Jess Mendenhall has to say about her #Boilermaker brotherhood experience.
Jess is the second woman to complete the MOST Project Management course. Read the full story here: https://t.co/6UTASl0E9i pic.twitter.com/TM7ksyXcrs

— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) March 19, 2025

Bricklayers:

Reminder - The deadline to apply for the U.S. Bates Scholarship are coming up next month!

Full details can be accessed here: https://t.co/ZMyclV4ujx or through the link in our bio!#BestHandsInTheBusiness #Apprenticeship #ItsBetterInAUnion pic.twitter.com/knnhLcEbUi

— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) March 20, 2025

Communications Workers of America:

Work in the videogame industry and ready for a union? 

Learn more about United Videogame Workers-CWA (@vgworkers): https://t.co/z3hK1H2dXS pic.twitter.com/QlEpqwIt0E

— CWA (@CWAUnion) March 19, 2025

Department for Professional Employees:

In uncertain times, a union provides professionals with stability, as they have a voice in workplace decisions and the support of their coworkers. Learn more about the benefits of joining together in union here: https://t.co/JoD99wOaoR pic.twitter.com/uKqCE9hiUX

— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) March 14, 2025

Electrical Workers:

This #WomensHistoryMonth we honor #IBEW women who have made history. Sisters like @AFLCIO President @LizShuler pic.twitter.com/yvWFlnXwHr

— IBEW (@IBEW) March 19, 2025

Fire Fighters:

🖥️🔥🏢 For #firefighters, the growing presence of data centers requires specialized training, lots of planning, and close cooperation with on-site security and engineering teams. 

Learn more ⬇️https://t.co/H8BrtyKwDa

— International Association of Fire Fighters (@IAFFofficial) March 19, 2025

Heat and Frost Insulators:

Did you know the journal is now available on our website & in the app?📲

As leaders of sustainable practices, we believe how we produce our quarterly journal should reflect our commitment to a greener tomorrow.

Want to go paperless? Update your settings in your membership… pic.twitter.com/5z63O4NZz8

— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) March 19, 2025

International Labor Communications Association:

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: ILCA member organizations like @AFGENational are working hard to uplift the stories of their members!https://t.co/1fsIcD1omO

— International Labor Communications Association (@ILCAonline) March 18, 2025

Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:

🎭 SAG-AFTRA STANDS STRONG FOR DIVERSITY & ACCESSIBILITY! 🎭
As major studios quietly roll back their DEI commitments under pressure from the Trump administration, SAG-AFTRA’s national board just reaffirmed its commitment to equity, diversity, and accessibility. pic.twitter.com/Zy0USKifpA

— LCLAA (@LCLAA) March 19, 2025

Labor Heritage Foundation:

On today’s Labor Radio Podcast Daily (7:15a on WPFW): American Steel playwright Alex Lin, on today’s Labor Heritage Power Hour; 40K UC employees Alex Lin quote@wpfwdc @AFLCIO #1u #UnionStrong #LaborRadioPod 
Proud founding member of the Labor Radio Podcast Network pic.twitter.com/ngqB6eYFG2

— Labor Heritage (@LaborHeritage1) March 20, 2025

Laborers:

#TBT — 121+ years of fighting, organizing, and WINNING! 

From job site safety to fair wages, union and non-union—we, #LIUNA stand up for ALL workers. When our backs are against the wall, Laborers don’t back down—we FIGHT and we WIN! 
#WeFightWeWin #ORGANIZE & #FeelThePower… pic.twitter.com/rekaBCYMMI

— LIUNA (@LIUNA) March 20, 2025

Maritime Trades Department:

https://t.co/173YlFsyPT
MTD Backs New Pro-Maritime Legislation

— Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO (@Maritime_Trades) March 12, 2025

Metal Trades Department:

Rumor has it Trump to Pick Union-Busting Attorney for Key Labor Law Position. Crystal Carey became a partner last year at Morgan Lewis, which has been one of the most powerful management-side law firms in the country since the 1950s. https://t.co/xn90hDlvHe

— Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) March 17, 2025

Mine Workers:

"The UMWA represents hundreds of West Virginia state employees, and we are proud to do so. We believe they deserve the same rights and respect on the job that any other worker anywhere has a right to expect..." - Cecil E. Robertshttps://t.co/R90PlU9QRO

— United Mine Workers (@MineWorkers) March 18, 2025

Musical Artists:

AGMA Ratifies 3-Year Agreement with Cincinnati Opera: https://t.co/EkC4wcwIk0 pic.twitter.com/82OKKsEmVg

— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) March 13, 2025

National Air Traffic Controllers Association:

President Nick Daniels served on a panel at the @NBAA Joint Board of Directors and Advisory Council meeting w/ panelists @AirlinesDotOrg SVP Sharon Pinkerton and former @FAANews Acting Administrator Billy Nolanhttps://t.co/3mTMO4fcPI pic.twitter.com/gtL4tvR7ry

— NATCA (@NATCA) March 20, 2025

National Association of Letter Carriers:

On March 23, we’re putting this fight on the MAP! Join letter carriers across the nation as we #fightlikehell for the universal service Americans rely on. 

📢 We’re delivering our message, loud & clear: #HELLNO to dismantling USPS!
Find your local rally ➡️… pic.twitter.com/nYQvUjxCgA

— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) March 11, 2025

National Domestic Workers Alliance:

Sharon, an NDWA member and Medicaid recipient in North Carolina, shares how Medicaid cuts would impact her family and community:

"We need [Medicaid] to send our families, our loved ones, to the doctor—because no one can afford a doctor bill."

Watch: pic.twitter.com/csLSz9rYwx

— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) March 19, 2025

National Nurses United:

RNs at VA facilities across the country send a clear message to our trans patients in response to attacks on their care: You will not be erased and we will continue to fight for you. https://t.co/VX3rrYsisp

— NationalNursesUnited (@NationalNurses) March 20, 2025

NFL Players Association:

This past week, members got down to business at our annual Board of Player Representatives meeting to shape the future of our union while soaking up paradise. Here's to leadership, building on our gains and solidarity! 🌴 pic.twitter.com/L5hOr4M5oI

— NFLPA (@NFLPA) March 19, 2025

North America's Building Trades Unions:

“Girl jobs” and “boy jobs”? Nah, just union jobs. These young women are gearing up to build the future.https://t.co/HOHR3EJ0ot

— The Building Trades (@NABTU) March 20, 2025

Office and Professional Employees:

A critical care transport nurse at Kapi’olani Medical Center for Women and Children, 32-year union member Rose Agas-Yuu has committed her career to her patients. As president of HNA/OPEIU Local 50, she works every day to better the lives of nurses and patients across Hawai’i. pic.twitter.com/fhuKeP49Id

— OPEIU | #UnionStrong (@OPEIU) March 17, 2025

Painters and Allied Trades:

The fight for workers' rights has always been about more than just wages—it's about our fundamental right to speak out and organize for a better future. Let’s continue to stand strong, speak up, and protect the rights that make our democracy stronger. pic.twitter.com/aVYajNr705

— IUPAT (@GoIUPAT) March 19, 2025

Professional Aviation Safety Specialists:

.@PASSprezdc on probationary workers reinstated: "Although termination emails indicated they were being let go for performance reasons, we learned from supervisors this could not be further from the truth." Let them continue their service to flying public. https://t.co/rAvUtTery3

— PASS (@PASSNational) March 17, 2025

Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:

Hey @RWDSU members: the RWDSU Record has officially gone digital! Stay up to date on news from around the union!

Check out the first edition that hit inboxes this morning: https://t.co/tMPfKOIA0S

Subscribe to ensure you receive the next edition: https://t.co/pH9Q6jLAHF pic.twitter.com/FCRKvTrxjY

— RWDSU (@RWDSU) March 20, 2025

Roofers and Waterproofers:

As temperatures rise and roofing projects pick up, it's crucial to stay ahead of seasonal safety risks. Spring weather can be unpredictable. Now’s the time to double-check your gear.
✅ Inspect your harness.
✅ Check your ladder.#UnionRoofers#RoofingSafety#RoofersUnion pic.twitter.com/PmAiJggZTk

— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) March 19, 2025

SAG-AFTRA:

On this episode of the SAG-AFTRA podcast, check out a conversation between labor leaders where they explore what unions are doing about A.I., from crucial provisions to ethical A.I. frameworks. Listen now! https://t.co/cjoqTYJBba pic.twitter.com/SxB54p1qKq

— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) March 20, 2025

Service Employees International Union (SEIU):

Yolanda, a special ed assistant, is on the frontlines of Trump’s attack on public education. His latest move to eliminate the Department of Education threatens her job & the students she supports—along with school aides, bus drivers, custodians & educators who keep our schools… pic.twitter.com/rTiCULim8A

— SEIU (@SEIU) March 20, 2025

The NewsGuild-CWA:

NEW: Trump’s cuts to the U.S. Agency for Global Media threaten press freedom worldwide.

Journalists at Radio Free Asia are speaking out—these cuts gut independent reporting where it’s needed most.https://t.co/ej0Eu658Cs

— The NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) March 18, 2025

Theatrical Stage Employees:

Today's #WomensHistoryMonth spotlight is Cat Hutchinson! An IATSE member for 17 years & Local B-192’s Secretary/Treasurer for nearly 4, Cat says being in the union has shaped her as a working mom—showing her daughter the power of a forward-facing labor movement! Cat, you rock! pic.twitter.com/xTU25f79LK

— IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) March 18, 2025

Transport Workers Union:

. @TWULocal100 showing TWU’s 💪🏾💪 in Albany, #NY. President John “We will take no crap from management” Chiarello, and more than 2,000 members of #AmericasFightbackUnion, are promoting L100’s legislative agenda in the state capital. @TwuSamuelsen pic.twitter.com/9gadtOEqhP

— TWU (@transportworker) March 19, 2025

Transportation Trades Department:

We salute the gains that Amtrak has made under its current leadership, including record ridership in 2024.

We remain committed to working with the next leader to build on this progress and support a 21st century passenger rail network that connects communities across America. https://t.co/BJF2DknXHu

— TTD | America's Transportation Unions (@TTDAFLCIO) March 19, 2025

UAW:

"One, two, three, four — no temps in the door!" 

Cummins has never had temporary workers at its OshKosh facility, but that's exactly what the company is pushing for now in hopes of dividing the workforce. Local 291 members aren't falling for it! pic.twitter.com/BTLCxB98Nz

— UAW (@UAW) March 20, 2025

Union Veterans Council:

The @unionveterans strongly opposes the dismantling of the Dept. of Education. Such actions are an affront to our democracy and threaten the educational opportunities of the most vulnerable among us, including minorities, those in poverty, and individuals with disabilities.

— Union Veterans Council🪖✊ (@unionveterans) March 12, 2025

UNITE HERE:

Celebrating Women's History Month ✊🏽✊🏻✊🏿 
Karlene Daynes, Local 261—"For me, being a woman in this labor movement means not being silenced and raising your voice for power and equality for all women." pic.twitter.com/Y2Dnoq3MqP

— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) March 19, 2025

United Food and Commercial Workers:

UFCW stands with postal workers & members of the community nationwide as we fight against the threat of an illegal & hostile takeover of the USPS.

‼️Events are happening all over the country tomorrow, March 20.‼️

Visit https://t.co/sVbvqVYfMC to find an event near you! pic.twitter.com/DNwbuIyx3r

— UFCW (@UFCW) March 19, 2025

United Steelworkers:

DYK? Siblings at Local 5429 in Olean, N.Y. are the skilled hands behind the high-quality @cutcocutlery found in kitchens across the country. These union-made blades aren’t just sharp—they’re built to last a lifetime. Strong, reliable, and crafted with care by union members. pic.twitter.com/VBtjLgNcFg

— United Steelworkers #EverybodysUnion (@steelworkers) March 20, 2025

Utility Workers:

🎒Students are eligible for entry into the UWUA Scholarship Program during the scholarship year that coincides with their graduation from high school. 2025 grads can apply today! https://t.co/URsD5SYgfD pic.twitter.com/Oxux6sz7lm

— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) March 20, 2025

Writers Guild of America East:

Welcome to the WGAE, @CourierNewsroom! The 50-member bargaining unit, which includes reporters, editors, designers, and social media managers represents the core creative and editorial staff who contribute to COURIER’s work and mission. pic.twitter.com/ACRS5NJsoV

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

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

Women's History Month Profiles: Maxine Lachnite-Pelker

For Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Maxine Lachnite-Pelker of the Heat and Frost Insulators (HFIU).

Maxine Lachnite-Pelker began her insulator career in 1988, working first as a helper and then starting her apprenticeship in early 1989. She worked hard for many years as an insulator and a mother, retiring in September 2021. She is now a project engineer with a signatory insulating contractor. Lachnite-Pelker is a trailblazer in her industry and an inspiration to all women in her local, showing what can be accomplished by working hard and working together. 

Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 03/20/2025 - 08:41

Tags: Women's History Month

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Labor Leaders File Ballot Proposal That Would Make Colorado a Just-Cause Employment State

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.

Leaders at the Colorado AFL-CIO and Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 105 have proposed a ballot measure that would make Colorado the second state in the country to have just-cause employment.

In 49 U.S. states, employers can fire a worker at any point, for any reason (or no reason at all). Initiative 43 would prohibit companies with more than eight staff from terminating or suspending a worker without performance reason—including things like repeated policy violations and gross insubordination. If the measure makes it on to the 2026 ballot and Colorado voters pass it, workers also would be able to sue for wrongful dismissal and employers could be required to reinstate workers, pay them back pay and cover the fees incurred by workers’ attorneys.

“Colorado workers should expect common-sense workplace protections that prevent them from being unfairly fired,” said Dennis Dougherty, executive director of the Colorado AFL-CIO. “Bad-faith employers arbitrarily fire workers to undermine worker rights, derail union organizing and take in record profits.”

Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 03/20/2025 - 08:39

Worker Wins: A Long, Hard-Fought Victory

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

San Joaquin County Nurses Ratify New Contract: Members of the California Nurses Association, an affiliate of National Nurses United (NNU), who work for the San Joaquin County health system voted overwhelmingly last week to ratify a new three-year contract. Registered nurses (RNs) secured this victory after going on a one-day unfair labor practice strike earlier this year and issuing another notice of a work stoppage that was set to begin March 9. Highlights of the deal include improved safety provisions, stronger nondiscrimination language and competitive wage increases. “This has been a long, hard-fought victory for San Joaquin County nurses,” said Kelly Mertz, an RN in the trauma department, in an NNU press release. “With this contract, San Joaquin County can be a competitive health care employer—meaning it can recruit and retain experienced nurses and avoid staffing crises. Our collective union power, our solidarity, and our commitment to each other and to patient safety brought this monumental contract to reality. We have once again proven that when nurses stand up and fight for what is right, we win.”

SAG-AFTRA Reaffirms Commitment to DEI and Accessibility: In the wake of studios rolling back equity pledges under the Trump administration, SAG-AFTRA’s national board passed a resolution this weekend acknowledging the vital role that diversity and accessibility plays in the entertainment industry and reaffirmed the union’s commitment to these principles. In recent weeks, major studios have silently scrubbed their websites of DEI commitments and dropped commitments to equitable hiring and promotion practices as the White House rails against these initiatives in both the federal and private sector. SAG-AFTRA pushed back against this trend and highlighted the union’s historic commitments to the authentic portrayal of the “American Scene,” which references a contract clause that affirmed a nondiscrimination policy across productions. “For decades, SAG-AFTRA has advocated for equal employment opportunity within the entertainment and media industry, including meaningful representation of historically underrepresented communities and holding employers accountable to their commitments,” said SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher and SAG-AFTRA National Executive Director Duncan Crabtree-Ireland in a joint announcement. “That advocacy continues unabated, and is as important now as it has ever been. We will be engaging directly with employers to reaffirm their obligations under the various SAG-AFTRA contracts and that they remain in full compliance with those commitments.”

Federal Court Orders Reinstatement of Fired Probationary Federal Employees: On Thursday, a U.S. District Court judge ordered the immediate reinstatement of fired probationary workers at the Departments of Veterans Affairs, Agriculture, the Interior, Energy, Defense and the Treasury and mandated that these agencies must immediately cease termination of probationary staff. Additionally, the judge also barred the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) from giving any guidance to federal agencies on which employees should be terminated. The plaintiffs in this case include AFGE, AFSCME, the United Nurses Associations of California/Union of Health Care Professionals, the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA-CWA) and multiple advocacy groups. “AFGE is pleased with Judge [William H.] Alsup’s order to immediately reinstate tens of thousands of probationary federal employees who were illegally fired from their jobs by an administration hell-bent on crippling federal agencies and their work on behalf of the American public,” said Everett Kelley, national president of AFGE, in a press release. “We are grateful for these employees and the critical work they do, and AFGE will keep fighting until all federal employees who were unjustly and illegally fired are given their jobs back.” “Public service workers are the backbone of our communities in every way,” said AFSCME President Lee Saunders in a press release. “Today, we are proud to celebrate the court’s decision which orders that fired federal employees must be reinstated and reinforces they cannot be fired without reason.”

UFCW Members Ratify Utah’s First Cannabis Union Contract: United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 99 members who work at Utah-based dispensary WholesomeCo made history last week when they ratified their contract, becoming the state’s first cannabis industry workers to do so. Workers first organized with UFCW in November 2023 as part of the union’s larger national Cannabis Workers Rising campaign. The history-making deal includes guaranteed wage increases over the contract lifetime, company-provided insurance coverage, paid meal breaks, a ratification bonus and other huge wins. “With the ratification of this historic contract, WholesomeCo will continue to be a great place to work while helping raise the standard of living for employees industry-wide,” said Local 99 President Jim McLaughlin.

IATSE Secures Tentative Agreement for Off-Broadway Workers: After a two-month strike, the Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) and the Atlantic Theater Company said Monday that they had reached a tentative agreement (TA) covering production workers. The bargaining unit spans nearly 100 workers at the off-Broadway nonprofit theater who will soon vote on whether to accept the TA terms. Stage crew handle vital roles for performances at the New York City venue like audio, videography, hair and makeup, costuming, props, carpentry and lighting. “The proposed agreement includes significant compensation increases including comprehensive benefits that both parties believe reflect the essential contributions of the production crew to Atlantic Theater Company’s success,” said IATSE in a press release. “Ultimately, after extensive discussions and dialogue, the Atlantic Theater Company is poised to become the first not-for-profit theater company producing solely Off-Broadway in history to have a union agreement covering production classifications.”

Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 03/19/2025 - 12:09

Tags: Organizing

Women's History Month Profiles: Rachelle Martin

For Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Rachelle Martin of AFSCME.

Rachelle Martin does so much it’s hard to know where to begin. She’s the single mother of two daughters, the co-chief steward at the Washington State Department of Health, a Washington Federation of State Employees executive board member, as well as the president of a fiscal sponsorship nonprofit, all while attending graduate school for her master’s degree in public administration. Her work as the first woman president of the Thurston-Lewis-Mason Central Labor Council is truly incredible. 

Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 03/19/2025 - 10:00

Tags: Women's History Month

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Video Game Workers Launch Industrywide Union with CWA

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.

In an historic development, workers across the United States and Canada are launching United Videogame Workers-CWA Local 9433 (UVW-CWA), a direct-join, industrywide video game union with the Communications Workers of America (CWA) in partnership with the American Federation of Musicians (AFM). 

UVW-CWA builds off of mobilization following the Game Developers Conference in 2018, which was a launching pad for the start of Game Workers Unite, an international grassroots organization dedicated to labor organizing the video game industry. The launch of UVW-CWA also coincides with the fifth anniversary of CODE-CWA, which has helped more than 6,500 tech and video game workers organize to join the union since 2020. 

“The creation of this union was not done in isolation; it’s a cumulative effort by the thousands of video game workers who have been fighting for years to redefine what it means to stand together and reclaim power in one of the largest and highest-grossing industries on the globe,” said Tom Smith, CWA’s senior director of organizing. “These workers are taking a bold stand, joining together to build power for the workers behind the games we all know and love.”

“Our mission is to take back our lives, our labor, and our passion from those who treat us like replaceable cogs; to empower our fellow workers; to link up arms with the laid off, with the freelancer, with the disillusioned contractor, with the disenfranchised and the marginalized, with the workers laboring invisibly to keep this industry afloat,” reads UVW-CWA’s mission statement. “We are going to create a game industry that works for us, one that nourishes its talent and invests in its future, rather than constantly seeking short-term profits. We are the ones that make the games, so we must be the ones that set the terms of how we work.”

Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 03/19/2025 - 09:50

Defend the Public Postal Service: 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:

BREAKING: The Alaska House just voted to pass HB 69, which would increase the BSA by $1,000. 

This is a huge win for Alaska's working families. #akleg #RaiseTheAKBSA pic.twitter.com/EIHvA3F6S1

— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) March 12, 2025

Arizona AFL-CIO:

Today Union members joined Veterans at the Tucson VA Hospital rallying against VA employee layoffs 💪 Currently, over 2,400 VA workers have already been laid off, with an alarming plan to eliminate an additional 80,000 jobs. @AFGENational pic.twitter.com/Ss4Fv7bNHT

— Arizona AFL-CIO (@ArizonaAFLCIO) March 15, 2025

California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:

CA @AsmSadeElhawary introduced AB 1331 (sponsored by @CaliforniaLabor ) - which bans California employers from using invasive surveillance technology to monitor their workers in private, off-duty areas, such as the break room, the bathroom or an employee’s personal vehicle. The… pic.twitter.com/wRRjiqAGl9

— California Federation of Labor Unions (@CaliforniaLabor) March 18, 2025

Colorado AFL-CIO:

This Women’s History Month, we recognize the astonishing legacy of “Flaming” Milka Sablich, a true labor champion and leader in the 1927 coal miners strike right here in Colorado. l pic.twitter.com/JKyTJ2PWbh

— Colorado AFL-CIO ✊ (@AFLCIOCO) March 15, 2025

Connecticut AFL-CIO:

Powerful labor town hall with Senators Murphy & Blumenthal. We are fortunate in CT to have two strong Senators fighting every day for working people. But make sure to continue reaching out & telling your stories about how federal cuts and freezes will impact working families. pic.twitter.com/vrXMg1nIX4

— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) March 17, 2025

Illinois AFL-CIO:

NEXT WEEK: Chicago Climbing Gym workers at First Ascent have announced their intent to form a union. Join them for a night of climbing and solidarity on March 20, from 7-9 PM, to show management that the labor movement has their back. 

Sign up:https://t.co/tGkihAHdUR pic.twitter.com/w5qF2GErSe

— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) March 15, 2025

Maine AFL-CIO:

Join postal workers & letter carriers for rallies to protest attempts to privatize the USPS!
@APWUnational Bangor & Portland - Thurs, March 20, 2025@NALC_National Portland - Sun, March 23, 2025 https://t.co/R7zAMaL7JW

— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) March 17, 2025

Massachusetts AFL-CIO:

Happy St. Patrick’s Day! We are remembering many leaders who built and grew the labor movement. Also thankful for the Massachusetts labor family, which was well represented at our union night fundraiser for the Steven A. Tolman Addiction Fund with the Dropkick Murphys on Friday. pic.twitter.com/LJFl5TLuvl

— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) March 17, 2025

Michigan State AFL-CIO:

It’s time for lawmakers — Democrats and Republicans — to put politics aside and work together to get pro-worker bills that have already passed the legislature signed into law.

Call on the MI House and Gov. Whitmer to do right by working families: https://t.co/HLCYuDtE8X pic.twitter.com/hSaEE1jy96

— Michigan AFL-CIO ✊ (@MIAFLCIO) March 18, 2025

Minnesota AFL-CIO:

"Folks who claim to represent Minnesota businesses, like the @MN_Chamber, will try to tell you #PaidLeave is bad for business. As a thriving small employer and retailer, I can tell you that it is just the opposite." #mnleg https://t.co/CBGmrqGBDK

— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) March 17, 2025

Missouri AFL-CIO:

Seven different #Unions introduced students to career paths at a career pathway showcase last month, this is a great way to offer alternatives to a four-year college and encourage trade apprenticeships! https://t.co/2cMauV0GWp

— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) March 16, 2025

Nebraska State AFL-CIO:

Thursday March 20th 3:30pm – 4:30pm
Start at the southeast corner of 10th& Pacific St., and move to the northeast corner of 13th & Pacific St.
Omaha pic.twitter.com/g1oGR27lEB

— NE State AFL-CIO (@NEAFLCIO) March 13, 2025

New York State AFL-CIO:

On the latest episode of the #UnionStrong podcast we sit down with @NYSDOLCommish to discuss the key workforce elements in the Governor's budget proposal, including worker protections, investments in childcare, workforce training initiatives, and more: https://t.co/cmbjDWkuwV

— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) March 12, 2025

North Carolina State AFL-CIO:

We support @NC_Governor Josh Stein's call for a pause on scheduled corporate and personal income tax cuts for millionaires and the wealthy few in order to invest in families and workers instead. #ncpol #1u pic.twitter.com/8KtoT2yEvA

— NC State AFL-CIO (@ncstateaflcio.bsky.social) (@NCStateAFLCIO) March 13, 2025

Oregon AFL-CIO:

As an Oregon Department of Human Services worker with @seiu503, Holly Smith works with Oregonians at the lowest income levels in our state. SB 916 is for striking workers who are already in impossible positions. 
#ORPol #ORLeg #SB916 #OregonLabor #OregonAFLCIO pic.twitter.com/FplFtEp3f9

— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) March 14, 2025

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Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:

Losing jobs and a weakened economy were not on the ballot. We voted for American workers, to protect good-paying union jobs, and build an economy that works for everyone, not just billionaires. #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/J2tPlqndmt

— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) March 13, 2025

Texas AFL-CIO:

#HB1078 is a common-sense bill to help veterans get information on the benefits they've earned!

USW (@steelworkers) Local 759 President Raj Penn & USW Local 13-2001 President Aquarius Johnson testified in support of the bill at the hearing ⬇️ #txlege pic.twitter.com/884QbvvHiX

— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) March 17, 2025

Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:

These virtual sessions are free, and offered on March 20, April 30, and May 29 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Click the link below for more info ⬇️⬇️⬇️ https://t.co/DpPyOeklkn

— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) March 18, 2025

Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:

Early voting for Wisconsin election starts Tuesday: How to vote for Supreme Court, other April races https://t.co/386hAvSDFe via @journalsentinel

— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) March 17, 2025

Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 03/18/2025 - 10:07

Women's History Month Profiles: Sue Martin

For Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Sue Martin of AFSCME.

Sue Martin is the first female president/secretary-treasurer of the Nebraska State AFL-CIO and a member of the Nebraska Association of Public Employees (NAPE)/AFSCME Local 61. She helped lead successful ballot initiatives to increase the minimum wage and institute paid sick leave in Nebraska. With her admirable dedication and passion for the state’s labor movement, Martin is highly regarded by Nebraska affiliates, elected officials and coalition partners. 

Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 03/18/2025 - 09:59

Tags: Women's History Month

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Unions Representing USPS Workers Respond to DeJoy’s Agreement with DOGE

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.

In response to Postmaster General Louis DeJoy’s agreement with Elon Musk’s DOGE, National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) President Brian Renfroe released the following statement:

NALC is aware of the agreement between the Postal Service, [General Service Administration] and DOGE to assist with ‘identifying and achieving certain efficiencies.’ We remain in contact with the Postal Service regarding DOGE’s efforts at USPS and any potential impact on NALC members. The safety of our members always comes first. That includes their information and data….

Common sense solutions are what the Postal Service needs, not privatization efforts that will threaten 640,000 postal employees’ jobs, 7.9 million jobs tied to our work, and the universal service every American relies on daily.

American Postal Workers Union (APWU) National Executive Board released the following statement:

Members likely heard the recent news of an agreement between the Postmaster General and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), headed by the un-elected billionaire Elon Musk, and not established by Congress. It is no surprise that DOGE has set its sights on the people’s Postal Service…. 

The APWU position is clear: There is no legitimate role for DOGE in the USPS or any other Federal agency. The public Postal Service was created by Congress as an independent government agency with robust oversight from the Office of Inspector General, the Postal Regulatory Commission, and the Board of Governors, as well as Congressional Committees.

The National Postal Mail Handlers Union (NPMHU), an affiliate of the Laborers (LIUNA), released the following statement:

Mail Handlers have seen the DOGE team dismantle federal agencies, impacting services provided to Americans across the country, and are therefore rightly concerned about the potential impact on the work of the Postal Service generally and the work of the more than 54,000 dedicated mail handlers across the country….Privatizing the Postal Service will threaten customers’ ability to receive packages and letters ranging from Social Security checks, necessary medications, government correspondence, and mail from loved ones….

The NPMHU will remain cautious and vigilant and is prepared to fight against any ill-conceived attempts by DOGE to dismantle this American institution.

Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 03/18/2025 - 09:47

Women's History Month Profiles: Sandra Parker-Murray

For Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Sandra Parker-Murray of the Communications Workers of America (CWA).

Sandra Parker-Murray is the secretary-treasurer for CWA Local 7777 in Denver. She is a fierce organizer and political advocate. She brings her years of experience as a front-line telecommunications worker and delivery driver into her work, ensuring that workers’ voices do not get lost. She is active in Colorado Independent Drivers United, part of CWA Local 7777 focused on building power for drivers in rideshare, delivery, taxi and limousine services. She can often be found advocating at the Colorado State Capitol. 

Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 03/17/2025 - 10:01

Tags: Women's History Month

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Workers at Pushkin Industries Secure First Union 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.

The 12 Writers Guild of America East (WGAE) members have secured their first collective bargaining agreement with podcast company Pushkin Industries. The contract was approved unanimously and establishes a minimum salary of $73,000, guaranteed raises, and guaranteed IP negotiation for shows where unit members write, research and host their own ideas; provides artificial intelligence protections; enshrines Quiet Weeks in August and December; provides 16 weeks fully paid parental leave, a minimum 12 weeks of severance, and a laptop; establishes protections for remote and hybrid employees; reports on the company’s diversity, equity and inclusion work; and establishes Just Cause among other provisions.

“We’re proud of this contract, and we think it reflects the strength of the community we’ve built at Pushkin and is an essential part of the movement to build better standards across the industry,” the union said. “We’re grateful to leadership for working with us throughout this process and for investing in our future together. The unit is looking forward to it!”

Pushkin was co-founded by Jacob Weisberg and Malcolm Gladwell and produces podcasts like "Revisionist History," "Deep Cover," "Broken Record," "Against the Rules with Michael Lewis," and "Where’s Dia?"

Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 03/17/2025 - 10:01

Get to Know AFL-CIO's Affiliates: American Guild of Musical Artists

This is the first post in our series that will take a deeper look at each of our affiliates again. The series will run weekly until we’ve covered all 63 of our affiliates. First up is the American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA).

Mission: AGMA is committed to protecting and advancing the employment and artistic rights of its members. Through the negotiation and enforcement of approximately 70 collective bargaining agreements (CBAs) nationwide, AGMA ensures fair wages, safe working conditions and a higher quality of life for the artists who bring the performing arts to life. 

Current Leadership of Union: Ned Hanlon serves as president. The other officers are J Austin Bitner (secretary-treasurer), Brian August (staging staff vice president [VP]), Helena Brown (choristers, actors and staff performers VP), Antuan Byers (dancers VP), Andrew Stenson (soloists VP), Andres Garcia (Eastern and Southern Region VP), Katharine Goeldner (New York Region VP), Cameo Humes (Midwestern Region VP) and Jennifer Wallace (Western Region VP).

Current Number of Members: More than 6,500.

Members Work as: Singers; dancers; staging staff; and faculty, staff and instructors in opera, ballet/contemporary dance and choral performance across the United States. 

Industries Represented: Opera, ballet and contemporary dance, and concert choral performance.

History: AGMA formed in 1936 as an organization of solo musical artists. In August 1937, the union was granted a charter from the Actors and Artistes (4As) to cover the fields of grand opera, concert and recital. AGMA pursued a campaign to organize artists throughout the country, and the first CBA that the union successfully negotiated that fall was with the Association of California Symphony Orchestras. Today, the union, led by the AGMA Board of Governors and supported by AGMA’s professional staff, negotiates and enforces more than 70 CBAs throughout the country and continues to set industry standards, even for nonunionized companies.

Current Campaigns and Community Efforts: AGMA actively supports its members through a variety of initiatives and resources. The union maintains an up-to-date list of auditions relevant to members, provides visa consultation services and offers contract enforcement and negotiation support. AGMA runs several member-led caucuses, including the AGMA Black Caucus, Opera and Concert Choristers Caucus, and Staging Staff Caucus, fostering community and advocacy within the union. The AGMA Relief Fund provides critical financial assistance to members in need. The union also offers educational webinars and a monthly newsletter and enables access to Union Plus and the Entertainment Community Fund resources. Additionally, the union now sells union-branded merchandise to promote solidarity and awareness. AGMA continues to mobilize around key labor issues, including fair wages, arts funding, workplace protections and organizing efforts in the performing arts.

Learn more: Website, Instagram, Bluesky, Facebook, X.

Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 03/17/2025 - 09:40

Women's History Month Profiles: Julie Stein

For Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Julie Stein of the United Steelworkers (USW).

Julie Stein began her career in 1984 as a laborer at the Appleton Coated paper mill in Combined Locks, Wisconsin. As a member of USW Local 2-144, she served in various elected positions. In 2006, Stein came to work for the USW and was actively involved in the Women of Steel and political programs. Today, Stein serves as director of the Steelworkers Organization of Active Retirees (SOAR) program, helping USW members engage in lifelong activism.

Kenneth Quinnell Sun, 03/16/2025 - 09:44

Tags: Women's History Month