Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Hartford Courant Reporters Ratify First Union Contract

Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

Reporters from the country’s oldest continuously published newspaper, the Hartford Courant, ratified their first union contract. The Hartford Courant Guild and seven other Tribune publications owned by hedge fund Alden Global Capital ratified a five-year contract that includes a 3% raise this month, another 3% raise next year, protections for existing 401(k) matches, job security initiatives, just-cause provisions to prevent arbitrary discipline and termination, a grievance and arbitration process involving a third-party for disputes, social media and credit line rights. In addition to the Hartford Courant, the Orlando Sentinel, Tidewater Review, The [Allentown] Morning Call in Pennsylvania, Chicago Tribune, Design and Production Studios and Tribune Content Agency are covered by the contract.

“When we created The Hartford Courant Guild over five years ago, it was in part to help ensure that the oldest continuously published newspaper in the United States continues to function,” said Hartford Courant reporter Christopher Keating, co-chair of the guild. “This contract took five long years to complete and was accomplished only through the diligent work of our bargaining leaders, particularly former Courant reporter Daniela Altimari and sports reporter Lori Riley. They deserve credit for the gains that we made.”

Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 06/18/2024 - 09:59

A Seat at the Table: 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.

Strong Opposition Raises to Bill Denying Student Athletes Employment: “Today, hours before the mark up hearing, opposition to the bill cried loudly. The AFL-CIO, the largest federation of labor unions in the United States, wrote a letter strongly disapproving of the PSAEFA. Penned by AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler, the letter stated that ‘the fallacy that every college athlete is merely a student has finally begun to crumble,’ and that within the Johnson case the NCAA seeks to deny student-athletes the right to have their labor evaluated by courts, a right every other worker in the nation maintains.”

Buttigieg Brings Biden’s Re-election Message to Union Members in York: “Jeff Chambers could be considered a man of many talents. Since his teens, he has worked in manufacturing, helped build things like the B-1 Bombers and spent 30 years at Harley-Davidson. A York City native, he joined his first union when he was around 19 years old and has been involved with several unions for over four decades. He retired in 2020 and is a member of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers Local 175. ‘Union benefits and wages really paved the way for a comfortable retirement for me,’ he said.”

Democrats in Congress Say Federal Mediators Should Let Airline Workers Strike When It's 'Necessary': “A group of 32 senators say federal mediators should speed up labor negotiations between airlines and their flight attendants and other workers, even granting them permission to go on strike ‘as necessary.’ The lawmakers said Wednesday that airlines feel no pressure to reach contract agreements quickly because federal law makes it difficult for airline workers to strike. That causes talks to drag on for years, they said. The senators—31 Democrats and independent Bernie Sanders of Vermont—joined House Democrats by weighing in while flight attendants at American Airlines and United Airlines are trying to gain more leverage at the bargaining table.”

OSHA Worker Heat Stress Proposal Goes to White House for Review: “A proposed federal rule to protect indoor and outdoor workers from heat stress is now under review at the White House. The agency has been working on a national heat stress standard (RIN:1218–AD39) since 2021 amid rising global temperatures that have led to some of the hottest summers on record. Text of the proposal, sent Tuesday to the White House’s Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, hasn’t been made public. But the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration previously said protection mandates could kick in any time the heat index reaches 80 degrees Fahrenheit.”

WGA Negotiator John August Reveals What He Believes Is the Biggest Artificial Intelligence Threat to Writers: “The new WGA-AMPTP deal is months old but the AI battle is far from over, according to union negotiator John August. August was speaking on an AVPSummit panel showcasing several AI-generated videos and images that he said represents a grave threat, even after the WGA was able to secure AI guardrails for the first time in its latest deal. ‘We were in negotiations with the six biggest companies but the things we see here today did not require a big company [to create],’ he added.”

More than 6,100 Members from Five Trade Unions Gearing Up for Skills Training: “More than 6,100 members from five national and international trade unions will travel to Ann Arbor this summer to advance their skills and knowledge. Nearly 5,000 will train at Washtenaw Community College (WCC). Plumber and pipefitter; ironworker; roofer; plasterer and cement mason; and electrical worker union members will train with their respective trade organizations each for a week beginning today through August. The ‘teach the teacher’ partnerships bring union members from throughout the United States and countries such as Canada, Ireland, Australia and beyond. Through a multi-year program, trainers work to enhance their skills and safety practices and then go back to teach fellow trade workers in their organizations.”

Educators, Staff in Virginia’s Largest School District Back Collective Bargaining: “Teachers and staff in Fairfax County, home to Virginia’s largest school district, are a step closer to being able to negotiate a collective bargaining agreement for the first time in nearly 50 years. School employees overwhelmingly voted in favor of collective bargaining on Monday, with the Fairfax Education Association and the Fairfax County Federation of Teachers coming together under an alliance group, the Fairfax Education Unions, that will represent more than 27,000 school system employees in labor talks.”

Public Theater Company Workers Vote to Join IATSE: “Production workers at Off-Broadway's Public Theater have officially voted to unionize and join IATSE. Of the company's workers, 70% voted, with 178 for and 11 against. The decision follows a growing trend of Off-Broadway companies voting to unionize, including Atlantic Theater Company and Titaníque earlier this year. Off-Broadway theatre backstage workers are currently largely non-union, unlike their Broadway counterparts. The Public declined to voluntary recognize the backstage workers' union in March, prompting the decision to call for a vote.”

Fulton Electric Department Joins IBEW Local 1439: “In another win for Organized Labor, employees of the city of Fulton Electric Department have unanimously voted to join IBEW Local 1439. ‘We would like to congratulate and welcome the 14 brothers and sisters of the city of Fulton Electric Department to IBEW Local 1439,’ said Jeremy Pour, Local 1439 business manager. IBEW Local 1439, which represents about 810 members, has been representing outside physical workers in the utility industry since March 16, 1945, including distribution and transmission linework outside of power plants, substation maintenance and construction, building service, meter department, meter reading, underground, trouble, stores, utility shop and salvage, gas, and motor transportation employees. The local also represents workers in multiple municipalities, including Desoto and Potosi.”

Fran Drescher: Union Boss Who Turned Tables on Hollywood Suits: “Fran Drescher may have been ‘The Nanny’ in another life. But as the president of SAG-AFTRA, she turned the tables on Hollywood’s power crowd. Drescher last year emerged as an unlikely labor leader and champion of the little guy. Best known for her zany 1990s sitcom character with the thick Queens, N.Y., accent, Drescher became one of the most powerful people in Los Angeles by holding firm, despite pressure and personal attacks, until her 160,000-member performers union won its most generous deal in decades. The contract brought an estimated $1 billion in gains for members over three years.”

Austin Pets Alive! Employees Vote to form Largest Animal Shelter Union in Nation: “Months after filing a petition, Austin Pets Alive! employees won a vote to form the Austin Pets Allied Workers (APAW) and join the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District 776, making it the country's largest union of animal shelter workers. ‘We are celebrating this victory with animal care workers everywhere,’ said members of the APAW Organizing Committee. ‘This victory gives us a seat at the table to help make the best decisions for the animals under our care. We look forward to sitting down with Austin Pets Alive! Management to secure a first contract for our fellow caregivers.’”

Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 06/17/2024 - 17:00

Pride Month Profiles: Chelsea Bland

For Pride Month this year, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various LGBTQ+ workers who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights in the United States. Today's profile is Chelsea Bland of the Office and Professional Employees (OPEIU).

Chelsea Bland is a proud Black, queer union member working to leave her mark on the labor movement. She is a strong advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and for supporting spaces of intersectionality within the labor movement. Bland serves as president of the Metropolitan D.C. chapter of CLUW. Through the chapter, she works to elevate the voices, stories and leadership of labor women and femmes in the metro D.C. area. Bland is a 14-year member of OPEIU Local 2.

Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 06/17/2024 - 08:48

Tags: Pride

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Workers at National Sawdust Successfully Vote to Join Union

Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

Ushers at Brooklyn’s nonprofit music venue National Sawdust in New York voted overwhelmingly last week to join Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 306.

Founded in 2015, National Sawdust is a Williamsburg-based cultural institution that commissions, produces and presents programming from multidisciplinary artists. With this successful vote, ushers will join the ranks of their front-of-house peers at iconic venues like New York City Radio City Music Hall, Richard Rodgers Theatre, Madison Square Garden and more. Staff started organizing in October of 2023 when they first reached out to IATSE with goals of securing a contract with quality health care benefits, robust safety provisions, mental health resources and avenues for professional growth.

“I love working at National Sawdust; With the knowledge and support of a Union, I feel optimistic that we can work towards implementing positive changes that will enhance our roles and in turn quality of life,” said usher Marika Wolf. “Not only for the benefit of the longstanding Front-of-house workers who have contributed to National Sawdust’s success as it has grown but also for any future members who will join the team.”

Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 06/17/2024 - 08:29

Pride Month Profiles: Stephanie Baiungo

For Pride Month this year, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various LGBTQ+ workers who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights in the United States. Today's profile is Stephanie Baiungo of the National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC).

Since becoming a letter carrier in 1996, being involved in her union has been a top priority for Stephanie Baiungo. In addition to serving as a shop steward, arbitration advocate, training facilitator and more, Baiungo has been a full-time advocate since February 2023. “It is very important to me to be involved in the NALC to enforce and protect our rights afforded through the collective bargaining agreement,” Baiungo said. She is proud of the rewarding work she engages in while supporting, representing and advocating for her NALC siblings. 

Kenneth Quinnell Sun, 06/16/2024 - 10:12

Tags: Pride

Pride Month Profiles: Alyssa Goodstein

For Pride Month this year, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various LGBTQ+ workers who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights in the United States. Today's profile is Alyssa Goodstein of the Laborers (LIUNA).

Alyssa Goodstein is the communications director for the Illinois AFL-CIO, where she leads strategic communications and public affairs for the third-largest state labor federation in the country. A native of Los Angeles, Goodstein received her undergraduate degree at the University of California, Los Angeles, and came to Illinois on a scholarship to pursue her graduate degree at the University of Chicago, where she studied the informal labor networks of female street food vendors in 20th-century Mexico. Prior to the Illinois AFL-CIO, Goodstein served a two-year term as the LGBTQ+ caucus director for the Young Democrats of Illinois. 

Kenneth Quinnell Sat, 06/15/2024 - 10:12

Tags: Pride

Worker Wins: We Will Have Their Backs

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

AFSCME President Joins OHSU Workers in Contract Fight, Celebrates Organizing Win: Last week, AFSCME President Lee Saunders rallied with Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) postdoctoral workers who are negotiating their first contract and congratulated biomedical researchers at the university who recently organized with Oregon AFSCME (Council 75). Members of OHSU Postdoc Workers United organized the rally as OHSU administrators have slow-walked the bargaining process by refusing to make progress on key issues like fair pay, improved benefits and provisions ensuring principles of equity and inclusion. Despite the fact that the 235 postdoc researchers are some of the scientists behind important discoveries that have brought in $600 million in federal funding to OHSU, the administration has continued to insult workers with status quo economic proposals. “You’re standing up for what you believe in, you’re standing up because you have a seat at the table. They have a responsibility to negotiate a fair contract with you. And if they don’t, we will raise all kinds of hell,” Saunders said to the crowd of postdoctoral workers. At another event, Saunders joined biomedical researchers who had their election to join Oregon AFSCME as Research Workers United (RWU-AFSCME) certified by the Oregon Employment Relations Board late last month. OHSU’s research staff is responsible for life-saving work studying cancer, seizure disorders and more. The unit includes almost 2,000 workers who will soon start bargaining for a contract that will improve wages, job security, benefits, resources and work-life balance for unclassified researchers. Saunders told workers, “With your new union, you can demand greater accountability and transparency from the university. You can demand answers about what they’re doing with grant money that is supposed to be for research.”

New York State Senate Passes Retail Worker Safety Act: Last week, the New York State Senate passed the Retail Worker Safety Act, a landmark piece of legislation mandating corporate retail employers to adopt comprehensive violence prevention plans to protect retail workers. The bill, which was endorsed by the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union-UFCW (RWDSU-UFCW), is now headed to Gov. Kathy Hochul's desk for her signature. In addition to requiring established violence prevention procedures, the act also compels employers to train workers in de-escalation and how to handle active shooters. Large retailers with 500 or more workers nationwide also will need to install panic buttons throughout their workplaces. In a survey of workers conducted by RWDSU-UFCW, 57% of respondents have experienced verbal harassment or intimidating conduct in their workplace within the last year, and 88% said they would feel safer if a silent panic button was installed. “When the bill is signed into law, basic protections will be provided for both workers and customers. Throughout this campaign, we have heard deeply troubling workers’ stories from all over the state—stories of violent crimes, senseless shootings and harassment,” RWDSU-UFCW President Stuart Appelbaum said. “Workers in retail stores in New York should never have to experience anything like this. One thing is for certain, however: employers can and should do more to protect their employees. That’s why we’re championing this critical law, which requires that retail employers take full responsibility to protect their workers from violence.”

University of Pennsylvania RAs Unanimously Ratify First Contract: Undergraduate and graduate resident advisers (RAs) at the University of Pennsylvania have ratified their first-ever union contract with 100% voting yes on the new agreement. Members of United RAs at Penn became the first RA union in the Philadelphia area in September when they joined Office and Professional Employees (OPEIU) Local 153. Before the new two-year contract, student workers received only a partial meal plan and a room in exchange for about 20 hours of work per week. They now get an additional 20 meals as part of their dining plan, an annual $3,000 stipend in the first year of the contract—to increase to $3,100 in the second year—and, for RAs who worked this spring, a $750 retroactive stipend. Workers have also secured provisions, including support during the disciplinary process, a grievance and arbitration procedure, a labor-management committee to give workers input into the College House system and more. “As a graduating senior who has worked on this campaign for years, it is remarkable to finally see RAs receiving compensation for the important work they do at Penn,” said Conor Emery, a member of United RAs at Penn, in an OPEIU press release. “I hope other RA unions in the Philadelphia area and beyond can learn from our negotiation campaign to strike even better deals with their employers, and I hope other student workers on Penn’s campus can feel energized to unionize and to bargain their own contracts too.”

Public Theater Workers Vote to Join IATSE: Crew members at off-Broadway’s Public Theater have officially voted to join the Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE), becoming the fifth off-Broadway group to do so since IATSE launched its organizing efforts earlier this year. This overwhelming election victory at one of New York’s most prominent not-for-profit theaters follows similar recent wins, including at Atlantic Theater Company and the off-Broadway musical “Titanique,” earlier this year. Unlike their Broadway counterparts, off-Broadway backstage workers are currently largely nonunion. In March, Public Theater management declined to voluntarily recognize the production workers’ union, but members weren’t deterred. Now having secured representation, they’ll soon be bargaining over improvements to working conditions, wages, health benefits and more. “I’m really excited that my fellow production workers and I will be able to have a say in what our jobs look like,” said props worker Milo Robinson. “We’re hoping that negotiations will bring benefits we all need, including a living wage and access to healthcare. Having a union at the Public feels like a big step in making off-Broadway a more sustainable career.”

Staff at the American Folk Art Museum Vote Unanimously to Form Union: Staff at the American Folk Art Museum (AFAM) voted unanimously last week to form a union with International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America (UAW) Local 2110, just a month after cultural workers at the museum announced their intent to organize. The museum, founded in 1961, has two locations in New York City: its public galleries on the Upper West Side and a facility in Queens. AFAM Union will represent workers across departments, including curatorial, information technology, retail and others. Members are hoping to negotiate a contract that will ensure fair wages and benefits, uphold workers’ rights and conditions, and create a better work environment that embodies values of equity, inclusivity and transparency. “I did get the pleasure of being onsite in Manhattan when the votes were counted and it was so exciting to see a unanimous vote from my colleagues across the museum in every department,” says Eve Erickson, executive assistant to the director and chief executive and an administrative manager at AFAM. “I am really looking forward to working with my colleagues across the museum to collectively ratify a contract that benefits everyone and builds a better future for the museum.”

UAW Members at Ultium Cells Reach Industry-Defining EV Tentative Agreement: UAW Local 1112 reached a landmark tentative agreement (TA) Friday at Ultium Cells in Lordstown, Ohio, marking a historic breakthrough for electric vehicle workers. Ultium Cells is a joint venture between General Motors (GM) and LG Energy Solution, and workers there build electric vehicle batteries for GM vehicles. Members voted in 2022 to join the UAW—this local TA builds on the successes of the national contract the union forged last fall as part of the Stand Up Strike and brings Ultium Cells workers under the master agreement. Wins include a 30% raise over three years for production, quality, SRP and material handling workers; protected paid relief time during shift; guaranteed full pay for bereavement and jury duty; and more. “Eighteen months ago, this company was on a low road path to poverty wages, unsafe conditions, and a dark future for battery workers in America,” said UAW President Shawn Fain. “Ultium workers said, ‘Hell no,’ got organized, and fought back. Now they’ve more than doubled their wages by the end of this contract, won record health and safety language, and showed the world what it means to win a just transition.” “Organizing to win our union took relentless persistence on behalf of hundreds of my coworkers at Ultium. Negotiating this contract was no different,” said Local 1112 Shop Chair Josh Ayers. “We want this agreement to become a cornerstone for current and future battery plants across the nation. First we planned. Then we took action. And now we have a tentative agreement to be proud of.”

Landslide Vote Grants Collective Bargaining to FCPS Staff, Educators: In a historic victory, 96% of instructional staff and more than 80% of operational workers at Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) voted to be represented by Fairfax Education Unions (FEU), an alliance between Fairfax County Federation of Teachers (FCFT)—an American Federation of Teachers (AFT) affiliate—and Fairfax Education Association (FEA). The campaign is the most successful public sector collective bargaining campaign won in 25 years, and will allow FCPS educators and staff to collectively bargain as one voice for the first time in nearly 50 years. There has been a statute banning collective bargaining in Virginia since 1947—it was enacted in part as a response to efforts by Black nurses, janitors and orderlies to form a union at the University of Virginia Hospital the year before. In 1977, the Virginia Supreme Court banned public sector collective bargaining, and in 1993, a law was passed to codify the ban. Flash forward to 2021, the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors passed an ordinance granting county workers the right to collectively bargain after the Virginia General Assembly passed legislation in 2020 that allowed counties, cities and towns to adopt collective bargaining ordinances. However, the ordinance did not apply to FCPS employees. Then, on March 9, 2023, the Fairfax County School Board finally voted to extend those rights to school workers. To say this resounding victory has been a long time coming is an understatement. And newly minted FEU members are ready to start bargaining on a contract that will improve learning conditions for students, enforce smaller class sizes and increased prep time, advocate for better safety and mental health resources in schools, and more. “Today marks the culmination of a 47 year-long fight to win collective bargaining at Fairfax County Public Schools,” said David Walrod, president of FCFT, in an FEU press release. “This is undoubtedly a historic moment in Fairfax and a monumental step forward for labor.”

Fairfax County Public Schools Workers Win Historic Election: As of early Monday morning, more than 27,500 Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) workers are now members of Fairfax Education Unions (FEU)—an alliance between Fairfax Education Association (FEA) and American Federation of Teachers (AFT) affiliate, Fairfax County Federation of Teachers (FCFT). Teachers, counselors, librarians, bus drivers, custodians, teaching assistants and other critical staff members who make the ninth largest school district in the country run voted by a massive margin to organize for the wages, benefits, and voice on the job they deserve. “Today’s message is clear: Persistence works, and the 1.75 million members of the AFT look forward to supporting Fairfax educators as they build a sustainable future for themselves, the public schools and the students they serve,” said AFT President Randi Weingarten in a press release. “We will have their backs as they bargain to ensure that every Fairfax public school is a place where parents want to send their kids, educators want to teach, and kids thrive.” Check out FEU’s announcement on social media here.

Lemonada Media Union Wins Voluntary Recognition: The Writers Guild of America East (WGAE) announced Thursday that the creative staff at Lemonada Media, an award-winning podcast network, has won voluntary recognition of their new union, Lemonada Media Union. Full-time and part-time producers and engineers for the network started organizing in the wake of a volatile media landscape to ensure and codify the rights and benefits they currently enjoy. The unit will begin bargaining its first contract soon, and its core priorities include worker input on company decision-making, standardized processes for promotions and advancements, equitable severance packages, worker protections in the event of an acquisition, and other critical safeguards. In addition to Lemonada Media, the WGAE represents podcast production staff at Crooked Media, the iHeartPodcast Network, Pineapple Street Studios, Pushkin Industries, The Ringer and Spotify Studios. “We’re excited to welcome the creative staff at Lemonada Media to the Writers Guild of America East,” said Lisa Takeuchi Cullen, president of the WGAE. “Lemonada joins the Guild as part of our ongoing unionization efforts to raise industry standards for the dedicated people who want to make a career working in podcasts. We look forward to securing workplace protections and benefits for the unit.”

Eight Tribune Publishing Units Ratify Historic First Contract: After five years of negotiations between Alden Global Capital and a joint bargaining committee, journalists at eight Tribune Publishing-owned outlets have voted overwhelmingly to ratify a historic first contract. Tribune, a newspaper print and online media publishing company, was acquired by hedge fund Alden Global Capital in 2021. When this deal went through, The NewsGuild-CWA members were in the midst of bargaining for a contract and had expressed concern about the purchase given that the hedge fund had a reputation for aggressively cutting staff during media company takeovers. But despite these hurdles, journalists remained steadfast in their fight and are now celebrating a contract that includes guaranteed raises, protection of their 401(k) match, increased job security and much more. The deal covers newsrooms at Orlando Sentinel, Tidewater (The Virginian-Pilot, Daily Press, The Virginia Gazette and Tidewater Review), Morning Call, Suburban Chicago Tribune (The Beacon-News, The Courier-News, The Naperville Sun and The Daily Southtown), Design and Production Studios, Hartford Courant and Tribune Content Agency.  “Helping organize our union in 2018 gave me agency I have never felt in my career,” said Suburban Chicago Tribune Guild unit chair and member bargainer Wendy Fox Weber. “Six years later, we finally have a contract with Alden Global Capital. The company fought us every step of the way, and everything in that contract is thanks to the work of a dedicated group of member bargainers. I am honored to have helped bring it to ratification.”

Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 06/14/2024 - 10:43

Tags: Organizing

Pride Month Profiles: Lyseria Kursave

For Pride Month this year, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various LGBTQ+ workers who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights in the United States. Today's profile is Lyseria Kursave of the Electrical Workers (IBEW).

Lyseria Kursave is the president of Pride At Work South Bay chapter and a journeyman electrician with 13 years of experience. She has represented Pride At Work on numerous panels, including at Tradeswomen Build Nations, where she talked about the LGBTQ+ experience within the building trades. She is a leader and an organizer who fights for LGBTQ+ worker power every day. 

Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 06/14/2024 - 10:12

Tags: Pride

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Fairfax County Public School Workers Vote to Unionize

Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

Fairfax County Public School workers voted to unionize, creating a wall-to-wall union of 27,500 teachers, custodians, teaching assistants, bus drivers, and more. The new bargaining unit, Fairfax Education Unions, is one of the largest K-12 unions on the East Coast, and is affiliated with both the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) and the National Education Association (NEA). Approximately 80% of the operational workers and 96% of the instructional workers voted for the union.

“On-the-ground organizing got us there,” says Fran Lewandoski, a school social worker with 20 years in. “Person-to-person organizing, recruiting interested people, getting leaders in buildings, providing them with guidance.”

Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 06/14/2024 - 10:01

Equality is Non-Negotiable: 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:

A group of five stage managers got together to talk shop about their careers, where they fit into the theatrical process and how their work keeps everyone, and everything, together. Read about their chat in the member portal and find highlights on YouTube. https://t.co/HoxpVBrhwT

— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) June 12, 2024

AFGE:

Learn more about this latest win for Air Reserve Technicians on civilian duty ⬇️https://t.co/qNScwy37mV

— AFGE (@AFGENational) June 12, 2024

AFSCME:

Finally. Veteran workers at the Philadelphia Museum of Art will receive the longevity pay they were promised. https://t.co/xvB8Y0aTvu

— AFSCME (@AFSCME) June 13, 2024

Alliance for Retired Americans:

We could afford to expand Social Security benefits if the wealthy paid their fair share into the system. https://t.co/EXKY65Y4ma

— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) June 12, 2024

Amalgamated Transit Union:

The final day of the 2024 ATU Legislative Conference was another exciting and busy day as our members went to Capitol Hill to meet with their Members of Congress to talk about the critical issues impacting our members, their families, our Union, and our industry. pic.twitter.com/nAUx3KC6Ko

— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) June 13, 2024

American Federation of Teachers:

The Truth and Healing Commission on Indian Boarding School Policies is long overdue. Moving the bill out of the @EdWorkforceCmte without it being weakened should happen today.

— AFT (@AFTunion) June 13, 2024

American Postal Workers Union:

Industrial Relations Director Charlie Cash announced the signing of MOUs to continue the higher levels of the Annual Leave Carryover and Annual Leave Exchange for the four groups represented by the APWU (APWU-Main Agreement, IT-AS, HRSSC, NPPN). https://t.co/BZHdH2XMoT

— The American Postal Workers Union - APWU (@APWUnational) June 13, 2024

Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:

Solidarity Summer starts now! Flight Attendants are on the picket line today to demand airline management stop stalling and negotiate record contracts now! #ContractNow #FlightAttendantsFightBack #1u pic.twitter.com/Uk5p8EdvnM

— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) June 13, 2024

Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers:

“When I first organized this plant in 1998 I promised them I would get them a pension,” reflects Canadian V.P. Ron Piercey. “It took some time/effort, but the members are thrilled and thankful of the BCTGM’s determination to deliver.” #bctgmpower #unionyes https://t.co/Zov85CKrfS

— BCTGM International (@BCTGM) June 11, 2024

Boilermakers:

L-374 Boilermaker Matt Reum made national headlines when he survived six days in his wrecked truck. The local honored his rescuers, and Brother Reum shared his story with the Boilermaker Reporter ➡️ https://t.co/EfnCM0PA5E pic.twitter.com/ob3hXViUaB

— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) June 12, 2024

Bricklayers:

“I appreciate all of the Brothers and Sisters at the BAC that never judge me by my sexual preferences, but by my character and the work that I do." 
Meet Jackie Townsend, a member and bricklayer instructor of BAC Local 21 IL, and mentor of many of the LGBTQ community.#UnionPride pic.twitter.com/RmbqbhgaaE

— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) June 13, 2024

California School Employees Association:

Solidarity with @UPTECWA as they head into bargaining today! ✊ https://t.co/CcDQOixY19

— CWA (@CWAUnion) June 11, 2024

Coalition of Black Trade Unionists:

The leadership, staff and members of CBTU are deeply mournful from learning of the death of Rev. Lawson, who worked closely with CBTU President Emeritus William "Bill" Lucy during the 1968 Memphis sanitation workers strike. He was a consistent champion of all workers everywhere. pic.twitter.com/KmTMkwsW5N

— CBTU (@CBTU72) June 10, 2024

Department for Professional Employees:

Congrats to the nearly 200 employees at Austin Pets Alive! who won their election to form @austinPAW_ with the @MachinistsUnion! https://t.co/GHXsuLMIEU

— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) June 12, 2024

Electrical Workers:

I’ve got people all over the country calling and saying, I want to be on that job,” - Jerry Payne, business manager #IBEW Local 322. “It means a lot for Kemmerer.” https://t.co/056BKlMwHs

— IBEW (@IBEW) June 11, 2024

International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers:

We're excited to endorse Sue Altman for congress in NJ!https://t.co/RtTurnkKYV

— IFPTE (@IFPTE) June 4, 2024

International Labor Communications Association:

REMINDER: the 2024 Labor Media Awards deadline is only a few weeks away! Get your submissions in by July 1: https://t.co/9YGKIYB22P pic.twitter.com/xOEXzY6rUZ

— International Labor Communications Association (@ILCAonline) June 7, 2024

Jobs With Justice:

The SCOTUS ruling today is a setback for workers and a win for billionaires like Starbucks' Howard Schultz. It seems they're so scared of unions that they want the whole system protecting workers declared unconstitutional (1/4)https://t.co/aQgd4Vs0kK

— Jobs With Justice (@jwjnational) June 13, 2024

Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:

In June, we celebrate Pride Month, and honor all the achievements made by our brothers and sisters from the #LGBTQ+ Community defending their rights. Listen to the LCLAA National President's message here:#PrideMonth #HumanRights #LGBTQ+ #WorkersRightshttps://t.co/1HMegbapFa

— LCLAA (@LCLAA) June 12, 2024

Labor Heritage Foundation:

ANNOUNCING the Labor Heritage Power Hour Theme Song Contest! We're searching for a theme song for our Power Hour radio show (Thursdays 1p on @WPFWDC 89.3FM); click here to enter! https://t.co/6szs1be4Qy pic.twitter.com/rA9nyq3RbL

— Labor Heritage (@LaborHeritage1) June 13, 2024

Laborers:

BAM! #LIUNABuilds the factories that POWER America’s #cleanenergy revolution, like the BAM-2 Battery Materials Factory in Moses Lake, WA. #FeelThePower pic.twitter.com/c6CKjLayzt

— LIUNA (@LIUNA) June 13, 2024

Machinists:

Machinists of Kentucky/Tennessee, gear up! We recently sharpened our strategies to fight against anti-union legislation and promote pro-worker policies. Together, we grow stronger. 

Find out more: https://t.co/kG4lyFPvCj

— Machinists Union (@MachinistsUnion) June 13, 2024

Maritime Trades Department:

MTD MOURNS NICHOLAS CELONA@SeafarersUnion https://t.co/EY0Hu6JHbk

— Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO (@Maritime_Trades) June 10, 2024

Mine Workers:

https://t.co/zJR2TSuF4x

This day marks the 99th anniversary of his untimely passing.

— United Mine Workers (@MineWorkers) June 11, 2024

Musical Artists:

AGMA Ratifies 3-Year Agreement with San Diego Opera: https://t.co/vmLkCBWpP9 pic.twitter.com/kowGMqPyiX

— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) June 4, 2024

National Air Traffic Controllers Association:

The Reloaded Committee will hold its next NATCA 101 class on June 15, at 12 PM EDT. NATCA 101 reviews our Union’s history, the work the Union does for its members, and insight for how members can become more involved. This class will be conducted online. https://t.co/b7cnwdPyMC pic.twitter.com/J0Y4KrcpWU

— NATCA (@NATCA) June 13, 2024

National Association of Letter Carriers:

Our overview of convention delegates continues with the next topic: What is a paid delegate? Follow this thread for more information and check out our previous videos at https://t.co/g94ntzzKLX. ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/5mkJADo4AP

— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) June 12, 2024

National Day Laborer Organizing Network:

“It’s not possible to say New York City is somehow the greatest city in the world, and say we have to wall it off to certain people.” - Cal Soto, #NDLONhttps://t.co/WZpxxXhVD5#SomosMas

— NDLON (@NDLON) June 7, 2024

National Domestic Workers Alliance:

We need:

Child care affordability.
Support for child care providers.
Paid family leave.
Protections for domestic workers and care workers.

— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) June 13, 2024

National Nurses United:

As nurses, we see the devastation medical debt wreaks on our patients every day, just for receiving the care they need.@POTUS's recent action to remove medical bills from most credit reports is a huge win for patients nationwide! 🎉https://t.co/CD2BIlY9pl

— NationalNursesUnited (@NationalNurses) June 12, 2024

NWSL Players Association:

June 10th… we acknowledge the anniversary of the Equal Pay Act & its importance within the world of women’s football. pic.twitter.com/4plGe7perO

— NWSLPA (@nwsl_players) June 10, 2024

NFL Players Association:

Minnesota Vikings RB @Showtyme_33 proved he's elite on and off the field. Through his A&A All The Way Foundation, 12 schools across Wisconsin and Texas received 500 pairs of shoes thanks to Jones' Yards for Shoes Campaign. 👏 #CommunityMVP pic.twitter.com/7x5LFEQeWI

— NFLPA (@NFLPA) June 7, 2024

North America's Building Trades Unions:

To teach workers and employers about addiction and resources, @Mass_BTU holds peer support events on the job site.

Models such as this focus on reducing stigma, increasing education, and offering practical supporthttps://t.co/MG8ZkqRUQs

— The Building Trades (@NABTU) June 12, 2024

Office and Professional Employees:

ICYMI: @OPEIU153 members at the University of Pennsylvania UNANIMOUSLY ratified their first union contract! #UnionStrong https://t.co/StPsHsLLtw

— OPEIU | #UnionStrong (@OPEIU) June 11, 2024

Painters and Allied Trades:

Today, in 1926, Tony Mazzocchi was born.

Mazzocchi was an activist and officer in the Oil, Chemical and Atomic Workers union, a founder of the Labor Party, and a primer mover behind the 1970 passage of the Occupational Safety and Health Act.

Seize the moment, organize and fight pic.twitter.com/2pdkvIae53

— IUPAT (@GoIUPAT) June 13, 2024

Plasterers and Cement Masons:

“broken labor laws have allowed corporations to undermine unions, but workers are still taking the risk to organize & join them—because they know...membership remains one of the best ways to boost their earnings, learn new skills, & build lasting wealth.”https://t.co/C0w91JKSRN

— OPCMIA International (@opcmiaintl) June 10, 2024

Pride At Work:

The Equality Act & LGBTQ Data Inclusion Act are imperative to increase #LGBTQ workplace equity. 

Email lawmakers to turn up the volume and demand our communities are seen, heard, & respected! #PrideInYourPay #LGBTQIAEqualPay pic.twitter.com/PabBtfTWSi

— Pride at Work (@PrideatWork) June 13, 2024

Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:

Knowledge is power; make sure you know your union contract inside and out!
Have a question? That’s what your union reps are here for! You can always contact your @RWDSU rep here: https://t.co/MfrHZJ2tUU pic.twitter.com/PJ2fp4pay2

— RWDSU (@RWDSU) June 12, 2024

Roofers and Waterproofers:

Treat your dad or husband to a union-made gift on Father's Day! pic.twitter.com/FXABOHHHmN

— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) June 13, 2024

SAG-AFTRA:

We lost a true legend: #JerryWest, a 3-time basketball Hall of Fame inductee and inspiration for the NBA logo. From the court to coaching to leadership, West left a resounding impact on the game. Our condolences to his family. #SagAftraMember since 1964 https://t.co/3VScAaHrgC

— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) June 12, 2024

Solidarity Center:

Join us to celebrate the 5th anniversary of ILO Convention #C190 🌍✊

📅 June 20, 8 a.m. ET 
🗣️ Discuss bridging labor & women's rights to tackle GBVH by exploring care, labor, & #GBVH.#EndGBVH #WorkerRights #GenderEqualityhttps://t.co/rM4krRYPKa

— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) June 13, 2024

The NewsGuild-CWA:

📨In this week's @newsguild newsletter:

- A first contract for CFRA @cwacanada1! 
- First contracts for 8 Tribune papers!
- Journalists pressure their employers on AI transparency

& more: https://t.co/UvU4vqsicn

— NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) June 7, 2024

Theatrical Stage Employees:

Meet today’s #PrideMonth spotlight, Ricky Boudreau. Ricky is a proud member of Local 822 who is passionate about working in wardrobe, and makeup and an advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights. pic.twitter.com/Ox9ZbvjRRJ

— IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) June 13, 2024

Transportation Trades Department:

As a witness in today's important @transportdems hearing about public transit, @TTDAFLCIO President Greg Regan is providing a voice for frontline transit workers. 

WATCH LIVE: https://t.co/lgEL6sMljX https://t.co/jSIOKsWH5S

— TTD | America's Transportation Unions (@TTDAFLCIO) June 13, 2024

UAW:

On Wednesday, June 12, more than 70 nurses and medics at CareFlight servicing Miami Valley Hospital in Dayton, OH, (Region 2B) voted to join the UAW.https://t.co/V6Mz5c1NLo pic.twitter.com/BakmqSMN9L

— UAW (@UAW) June 13, 2024

Union Label and Service Trades Department:

There is one way for workers to effectively push back on creeping workplace surveillance: collective bargaining. Unionized workers have a right to bargain over working conditions, including the extent of employer surveillance. https://t.co/uWdtp1UVD7

— Union Label Dept. (@ULSTD_AFLCIO) June 5, 2024

UNITE HERE:

Proud to be out today in solidarity with @UNITEHEREPhilly! Aramark workers need family-sustaining wages and healthcare NOW! https://t.co/UkZQ7eyFDA pic.twitter.com/YvsRtx65xh

— UNITE HERE Local 25 (@UHLocal25) June 12, 2024

United Food and Commercial Workers:

Equality is non-negotiable. 

This LGBTQIA+ Equal Pay Awareness Day, we reaffirm our fight to ensure that every community is valued, uplifted, and financially empowered. pic.twitter.com/JBs89bAQe1

— UFCW (@UFCW) June 13, 2024

United Steelworkers:

From the latest USW@Work: USW members who have run for and won political office around the country know that the grassroots difference – in the form of activism by union workers – is the key to winning.

Read more: https://t.co/gRu9WAro4n pic.twitter.com/ppngBaGV1f

— United Steelworkers #EverybodysUnion (@steelworkers) June 13, 2024

Utility Workers:

UWUA members can also join @PrideatWork to show their #solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community. https://t.co/M6YxlLEciU pic.twitter.com/mzviOZuNQd

— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) June 13, 2024

Working America:

More than 1 in 4 US households need help to keep up with energy costs. The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Want to know if you qualify? Sign up now to receive more information on how to apply and eligibility requirements. https://t.co/HdcHFNx4BS pic.twitter.com/SzomPdvlrl

— Working America (@WorkingAmerica) June 11, 2024

Writers Guild of America East:

Procrastination is part of the process 🎙️⬇️ https://t.co/MbTPsv2Q4f

— Writers Guild of America East (@WGAEast) June 13, 2024

Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 06/13/2024 - 12:19

Pride Month Profiles: Wendy Kistner

For Pride Month this year, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various LGBTQ+ workers who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights in the United States. Today's profile is Wendy Kistner of the Heat and Frost Insulators (HFIU).

Wendy Kistner has been an HFIU Local 3 member for more than eight years, being the first woman voted in as a trustee in 2022. She faithfully attends the Tradeswomen Build Nations conference, always ready and willing to learn more about her trade. Kistner volunteers her time at outreach programs. Kistner’s son Zaine is a third-year apprentice in HFIU Local 3, proudly continuing in her footsteps.

Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 06/13/2024 - 10:07

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Public Theater Workers Vote to Join IATSE

Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

Crew members at off-Broadway’s Public Theater have officially voted to join the Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE), becoming the fifth off-Broadway group to do so since IATSE launched its organizing efforts earlier this year.

This overwhelming election victory at one of New York’s most prominent not-for-profit theaters follows similar recent wins, including at Atlantic Theater Company and the off-Broadway musical “Titanique,” earlier this year. Unlike their Broadway counterparts, off-Broadway backstage workers are currently largely nonunion. In March, Public Theater management declined to voluntarily recognize the production workers’ union, but members weren’t deterred. Now having secured representation, they’ll soon be bargaining over improvements to working conditions, wages, health benefits and more.

“I’m really excited that my fellow production workers and I will be able to have a say in what our jobs look like,” said props worker Milo Robinson. “We’re hoping that negotiations will bring benefits we all need, including a living wage and access to healthcare. Having a union at the Public feels like a big step in making off-Broadway a more sustainable career.”

Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 06/13/2024 - 10:01

Enough Is Enough: In the States Roundup

It's time once again to take a look at the ways working people are making progress in the states. Click on any of the links to follow the state federations on X (formerly Twitter).

Alabama AFL-CIO:

Enough is Enough #bethere #NALC #1U pic.twitter.com/DRAGOCAUvw

— Alabama AFL-CIO (@AlabamaAFLCIO) June 5, 2024

Alaska AFL-CIO:

This Thursday, June 13th, @AFAAlaska Flight Attendants will picket outside the Anchorage Ted Stevens International Airport at 10:30 a.m. Show up and support your union siblings in their fight for a fair contract! ✊ #1u https://t.co/ZJIZRk82RV

— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) June 10, 2024

Arizona AFL-CIO:

📌Mark Your Calendars! Join us for our 12th Annual Labor Day Luncheon - celebrating #solidarity and #strenth in the Labor Movement. See you there!
If you have any questions please feel free to reach out✊ pic.twitter.com/H1KjvXK6il

— Arizona AFL-CIO (@ArizonaAFLCIO) June 7, 2024

California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:

#AB5 and a Union Contract! Love to see the law work! https://t.co/Pu2HXy6Ny3

— California Labor Federation (@CaliforniaLabor) June 12, 2024

Connecticut AFL-CIO:

The strongest protections for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer workers is a #union contract! Work with your local union to ensure your contract fully includes LGBTQ+ workers using @PrideatWork's model contract language. https://t.co/Ip5nhd6Gcj

— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) June 10, 2024

Florida AFL-CIO:

Congratulations and solidarity! 💪 https://t.co/bElG27V9wL

— Florida AFL-CIO (@FLAFLCIO) June 7, 2024

Georgia State AFL-CIO:

It matters when our elected officials support unions over corporations. We’re not just seeing ​272,000 new jobs in our communities, we’re seeing good-paying jobs that don't require a college degree. Together, we’re training, building, and empowering workers.

— Georgia AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOGeorgia) June 10, 2024

Illinois AFL-CIO:

The IL AFL-CIO is proud to fight for the rights and well-being of everyone.

It is our honor + duty to uplift our LGBTQIA+ siblings. For Amanda, the power of a union during Pride month means feeling seen and valued on and off the job. 

Equality is solidarity. #1u #pridemonth pic.twitter.com/Al1JqRnCrs

— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) June 12, 2024

Indiana State AFL-CIO:

🚨 Our 2024 endorsements are here! 🚨 pic.twitter.com/pjV9hwN0ZB

— Indiana AFL-CIO (@INAFLCIO) June 10, 2024

Maine AFL-CIO:

At the @MaineDems Convention in Bangor, Democrats voted to insert a new plank in the party's platform supporting workers' rights, equal pay, project labor agreements & the right to strike for all workers, including public sector employees. #mepolitics https://t.co/j94uoh6CXK

— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) June 11, 2024

Massachusetts AFL-CIO:

Tomorrow, join @APFAunity Boston from 11am to 2 pm for a day of action at the Massachusetts State House pic.twitter.com/IAyHZJrAJV

— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) June 12, 2024

Michigan State AFL-CIO:

Under Michigan’s new clean energy laws, workers are a top priority.

Michigan is proving that the fight to combat climate change and the fight to create good union jobs go hand in hand.https://t.co/ikqWOHX6CJ

— Michigan AFL-CIO ✊ (@MIAFLCIO) June 7, 2024

Minnesota AFL-CIO:

"We really hope that Kim's will listen and that they'll understand and respect that we want this restaurant to succeed" said Iain Knopp-Schwyn, 27, who works as a bar lead. "But it doesn't succeed without all of us." #1u @UNITEHERE17 https://t.co/F5pAYWPuQg

— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) June 6, 2024

Missouri AFL-CIO:

Labor 411's guide has tools, sporting goods, and delicious bourbon. This Father's Day, vote with your wallet and support good union jobs. #FathersDay

🛒 List here: https://t.co/rw0IIqcP6l pic.twitter.com/aTIJYcJptz

— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) June 12, 2024

Nevada State AFL-CIO:

To say we are proud is an understatement. Congratulations to @LindaForNevada for winning her primary election. When we fight, WE WIN! 👏🏻🗳️ read the full press release: https://t.co/OHG9adsBr9 pic.twitter.com/dC5HGy8zTE

— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) June 12, 2024

New York State AFL-CIO:

Pres. Cilento at today's Ellis Island Initiative Summit: "The very foundation of the Union Movement is to bring people from all walks of life, interests, and beliefs together to improve our quality of life. We have a common goal and shared opportunity. (1/3) pic.twitter.com/lzKf4b9RMv

— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) June 11, 2024

North Carolina State AFL-CIO:

If Brightspeed executives fail to reach a fair contract with @CWAunion members soon, federal funding for building out broadband in NC could be put at risk. #CWAFairContract #1u pic.twitter.com/1BfHMarVyq

— NC State AFL-CIO // #CountMeIn (@NCStateAFLCIO) June 6, 2024

Ohio AFL-CIO:

While the @POTUS is creating hundreds of thousands of good @AFLCIO #union jobs, the other guy is rambling about sharks? Donald Trump is not serious about moving America forward and never has been. He’s a grifter who’s making millions for himself and the billionaires who fund him. https://t.co/VjceVHjsnG

— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) June 12, 2024

Oregon AFL-CIO:

Safe staffing benefits everybody—patients, care workers & everyone in between. We can’t let the federal nursing home safety standard hang in jeopardy. Share your story about why we need #BetterCareNow! ⤵️ Send a letter to protect the safe staffing rule: https://t.co/S9U9fTd8nk pic.twitter.com/kKvnlX2P7d

— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) June 11, 2024

Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:

“The reality is the labor movement is the largest organization of working women in the country. We represent 6.5 million women — so we are a women’s movement.” - Liz Shuler, President @AFLCIO#YearOfTheWorkerhttps://t.co/o6DwZ12XOo

— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) June 10, 2024

Virginia AFL-CIO:

BFD 🔥🔥 Congratulations to @FEUunited & the 27,500+ Fairfax County educators and staff who stood strong in solidarity and voted to join @FEUunited! https://t.co/CBCQb7gebA

— Virginia AFL-CIO (@Virginia_AFLCIO) June 10, 2024

Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:

This PRIDE month, tap into @PrideatWork resources and events to celebrate our LGBTQ siblings and build power for queer and trans working folks.

And join our local P@W fam for the Seattle PRIDE parade June 30!https://t.co/bJ1jXeS4pg pic.twitter.com/H9MIXXJNs5

— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) June 11, 2024

Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:

Hundreds of construction workers strike over pay -- is an agreement in sight? https://t.co/zKbta3T8g5

— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) June 12, 2024

Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 06/12/2024 - 10:21

Pride Month Profiles: Kim Holdridge

For Pride Month this year, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various LGBTQ+ workers who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights in the United States. Today's profile is Kim Holdridge of the Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE).

Kim Holdridge serves as the IATSE District 14 secretary/treasurer, Florida AFL-CIO executive board and finance committee chair, and Central Florida AFL-CIO executive vice president. She is also a member of the Florida AFL-CIO Committee on Political Education and IATSE Pride committee. “I’ve had wonderful leaders mentor me throughout my career, sharing their knowledge so that I may have a deeper understanding of how best to help those around me, whether in the union and within the community,” Holdridge said.

Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 06/12/2024 - 10:04

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Austin Pets Alive Workers Vote to Unionize

Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

Workers at animal shelter Austin Pets Alive voted to form a union after almost a year of organizing. The union, an affiliate of the Machinists (IAM), will represent nearly 200 employees, making it the largest animal shelter union in the country. The workers are fighting to secure a contract with better pay and benefits, more work-life balance, and newer equipment for the animals. Better staffing policies, the union said, will ultimately improve the lives of the animals at the shelter.

“Our voice isn’t listened to when we are the ones who are giving the care to animals every day,” said Morty Gillum, who works with cat placement. “Winning this election really gives us a chance to give the animals the voice and the advocation they need for the care they need.”

Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 06/12/2024 - 09:56

Good Jobs Summer: 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.

University of Minnesota Employees Welcome Reforms to State’s Public Employment Law: “Employees and student workers at the University of Minnesota are hailing reforms to the state’s public labor law that they say will allow more than 23,000 workers to more easily unionize. The Public Employee Labor Relations Act was put in place decades ago to grant collective bargaining rights to workers in the state’s public sector, but critics said it effectively prevented two-thirds of the university’s workforce from forming and joining unions, in large part because of the way various workers were grouped across the system.”

Pete Buttigieg Promotes American-Made Steel While Visiting Harrisburg Area: “Maurice Cobb, the Secretary-Treasurer with the Pennsylvania AFL-CIO, was a fourth generation steelworker at the Steelton plant and said it was great for Buttigieg and [Gov. Josh] Shapiro to tour the plant. ‘It shows a partnership between the union and the company and the dedication to good-paying jobs, investment in our facilities, and keeping our infrastructure and transportation made in America,’ Cobb told The Keystone. Cobb went on to explain the importance of using American-made steel for the country’s infrastructure projects. ‘The importance of it is it’s providing well paying jobs for Americans and our products made in America are far superior to foreign steel,’ Cobb said.”

Fairfax Educators Rally for Historic Collective Bargaining Effort to Improve Teaching Conditions, Student Learning: “The Fairfax Education Association and the Fairfax County Federation of Teachers have banded together to ensure that educators and school support staff are able to negotiate a contract with Fairfax County Public Schools for better working conditions and student learning conditions. Teachers and school support staff in Fairfax on Monday launched a campaign that would secure their right to collectively bargain for the first time in nearly 50 years if successful, all in an effort to better serve local students.”

AFL-CIO President Notes LGBTQIA+ Pride Month: “AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler released the following statement to commemorate LGBTQIA+ Pride Month and the many contributions of queer workers to the labor movement: ‘This June, we celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community, and reaffirm our commitment to ensuring equity, dignity, and inclusion both in life and in the workplace. Collective bargaining remains the best tool against discrimination of any kind, which is why the AFL-CIO fights so that working people of all sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions can enjoy the protections of a union contract.’”

Federal Judge Blocks GOP Attempt to Censor New Hampshire Teachers: “U.S. District Judge Paul Barbadoro in New Hampshire has rejected the state’s attempt at censoring what public school teachers may teach about race in the Granite State’s classrooms, a decision that elates both big teachers’ unions, the National Education Association and the American Federation of Teachers. The AFT called the measure ‘a divisive concepts’ law. ‘The judge saw this case for what it was: A politically based, divisiveness-fueled attempt to stoke fear—fear of honest history, fear of critical thinking, fear of knowledge,’ said AFT President Randi Weingarten, a New York civics teacher with a law degree. AFT Local 8037, with 3400 members, was one of two unions that sued. New Hampshire’s National Education Association affiliate was the other.”

Influencers Are Driving a New Category of Unionizing: Pharmacists: “It started with posting memes on Facebook and has grown into a national labor-organizing campaign. The target: unionizing pharmacists at CVS, Walgreens and other chains. With social-media handles like ‘The Accidental Pharmacist,’ ‘RxComedy’ and the hashtag #PizzaIsNotWorking, a small group of social-media influencers late last year co-founded the Pharmacy Guild, a union affiliated with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers. This new breed of labor organizers are pushing for more staffing, which they say will alleviate prescription backlogs and ease the frustrations of customers. The organizers also seek better wages and benefits, especially for the workhorses of the pharmacy called technicians who often put the pills in bottles.”

The Biden Administration’s Labor Department Is Hitting the Road for ‘Good Jobs Summer’: “It’s the DOL’s latest attempt at promoting the idea of ‘good jobs,’ and making them more widespread. Part of [Acting Secretary of Labor Julie] Su’s guiding edicts is to fill the economy with jobs that provide workers security, stability, good pay, and benefits. The Good Jobs Principles framework outlines eight hallmarks of what makes a job good quality; that includes hiring and recruitment from underrepresented backgrounds and doing away with unnecessary educational or credential requirements—a major barrier for many workers. It also includes better pay, benefits, job security, and access.”

Biden Vetoes Bill to Overturn NLRB Joint Employer Rule, Protecting Workers: “President Biden has vetoed a Congressional Review Act measure that sought to overturn the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) rule preventing corporations from hiding behind a subcontractor or staffing agency when workers want to collectively bargain. The NLRB’s joint employer rule expands bargaining obligations and liability for labor violations for employers that have power over working conditions, even if workers are hired through a third party or by franchisees of a larger franchise. The regulation ensures that union members can bargain with each company that has the power to make changes in the workplace. A two-thirds majority in the House and Senate would be required to overturn the veto, an unlikely scenario as an overwhelming majority of congressional Democrats endorse the rule.”

AFGE, AFL-CIO Laud Anti-Job Discrimination, Pro-Public Service Bills: “The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) are lauding the latest version of legislation opposing job discrimination on the basis of age and of being differently abled. And the AFL-CIO has thrown its support behind a reintroduced bill giving all public service workers the freedom to bargain—effectively overriding bargaining bans in Texas, North Carolina and elsewhere. The Public Service Freedom to Negotiate Act would extend bargaining rights, the right ‘to join a union chosen by a majority,’ the right to bargain ‘over essential workplace matters, to access dispute resolution’ and to collect union dues, AFL-CIO Legislative Director Jody Calemine wrote to lawmakers on May 15. They’d also be able to ‘engage in activities related to collective bargaining and mutual aid.’”

Unions Building Up: “At Trumbull Energy Center, a more than $1 billion natural gas-fired power plant that’s under construction in Lordstown [Ohio], [Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 396 Business Manager Marty] Loney said, ‘We’ll probably have 50 or 60 fitters out there’ in the next few months. Another large project, but one that’s still in the wings, is an expected manufacturing plant at the former Republic Steel site in Trumbull County. Kimberly-Clark, a Fortune 200 company that makes consumer products under brands like Kleenex, Cottonelle, Huggies, Kotex and Depends, purchased 560 acres at the site in December for $9.9 million from the Western Reserve Port Authority. The demand for carpenters, electricians, pipefitters, operators and other trades is steady, which is why the unions have expanded their recruitment efforts over the last 10 years. While baby boomers continue to retire, vacant roles are being filled more frequently by young professionals in construction.”

‘We’re Not Done:’ Pro-Union Mercedes Workers Hope for Revote: “The United Auto Workers is challenging the results of the recent unionization vote at the Mercedes-Benz U.S. International plant in Vance [Alabama]. The UAW filed an objection to the National Labor Relations Board a week after the vote to unionize failed. The union said Mercedes used ‘relentless anti-union campaign marked with unlawful discipline, unlawful captive audience meetings, and a general goal of coercing and intimidating employees.’”

Biden Campaign HQ Staffers Finalize Union Agreement, Making It the First Presidential Reelection Campaign to Organize: “Staffers at President Joe Biden’s campaign headquarters in Delaware finalized a union contract last week after collective bargaining negotiations, making Biden the first incumbent to run for reelection with a unionized workforce and underscoring his pro-labor outlook. Officials said the new contract covers wages, time off and severance, among other issues. The unionization effort is affiliated with the Campaign Workers Guild, a non-partisan labor union founded in 2017 to represent workers on campaigns and political committees.”

Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 06/11/2024 - 15:23

Pride Month Profiles

For Pride Month this year, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various LGBTQ+ workers who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights in the United States.

Check out the members we've already profiled:

• Andrew Tallett
• Jenny Reeves 
• Logan Howard
• Temika M. Cook
• Martha Grevatt
• Hunter Chumbley
• Mae apGovannon
• Sasha Romero
• David Haskins
• Rachelle Martin
• Desi Navarro

 

Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 06/11/2024 - 09:44

Tags: Pride

Pride Month Profiles: Desi Navarro

For Pride Month this year, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various LGBTQ+ workers who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights in the United States. Today's profile is Desi Navarro of the Communications Workers of America (CWA).

Desi Navarro is a senior clerk with the City of Tucson and a vice president of CWA Local 7000. In addition to being on the national CWA Women’s Committee, she is a member of the CWA Pride Caucus and Arizona Pride At Work. Navarro has been an activist her entire life and will continue to fight for equity, workers’ rights and the LGBTQ+ community. Navarro and her wife, Amanda, have a 4-year-old daughter named Poppy. When she’s not pursuing justice, she enjoys spending time with her family and exploring the Arizona desert.

Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 06/11/2024 - 09:38

Tags: Pride

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Fairfax County Public Schools Workers Win Historic Election

Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

As of early Monday morning, more than 27,500 Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) workers are now members of Fairfax Education Unions (FEU)—an alliance between Fairfax Education Association (FEA) and American Federation of Teachers (AFT) affiliate, Fairfax County Federation of Teachers (FCFT). Teachers, counselors, librarians, bus drivers, custodians, teaching assistants and other critical staff members who make the ninth largest school district in the country run voted by a massive margin to organize for the wages, benefits, and voice on the job they deserve.

“Today’s message is clear: Persistence works, and the 1.75 million members of the AFT look forward to supporting Fairfax educators as they build a sustainable future for themselves, the public schools and the students they serve,” said AFT President Randi Weingarten in a press release. “We will have their backs as they bargain to ensure that every Fairfax public school is a place where parents want to send their kids, educators want to teach, and kids thrive.”

Check out FEU’s announcement on social media here.

Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 06/11/2024 - 09:28

It’s Been an Honor to Chronicle Labor History

David Groves is an inspiration to union communicators everywhere and the importance of his work building The Stand to uplift worker stories cannot be overstated. Thank you for your dedication to the labor movement.

My career at the WSLC has given me a front-row seat and an active role in historic events and campaigns. From the WTO Seattle protests to the demise of “free trade.” From Boeing’s f—ups to the Freedom Foundation’s f—wits.

For example, I’ll never forget joining former WSLC President Rick Bender at the Secretary of State’s office in the Capitol building in 1998 as he filed Initiative 688 to raise the minimum wage. No pomp or press conference. He unceremoniously filed the paperwork and paid the $5 fee while, across the building in the legislative chambers, U.S. House Speaker Newt Gingrich was addressing Washington’s Republican-controlled (!) House and Senate.

I got to design the I-688 petition and the admittedly primitive campaign logo – that’s my signature on the dollar bill — and I spent many lunch hours and ferry commutes collecting signatures. In the end, I-688 qualified for the ballot using only volunteer signature gatherers, it passed by a two-thirds majority, and Washington became the first state in the nation to automatically increase its state minimum wage each year to adjust for inflation.

That is the power of Washington’s union movement being put to use, as it often is, to benefit all workers in our state, and to show the nation what is possible.

In those heady early days after I became the communications director, I represented the WSLC and promoted labor’s advocacy on local television and radio news shows. I once even took on a Boeing CEO on the front page of The Seattle Times for saying that Washington sucked. But I soon eschewed the role of spokesperson to focus on lifting up the work of rank-and-file members and elected leaders of Washington’s union movement.

So I returned to my journalism roots and began reporting labor news, and in the process, chronicling our history. It began with the creation of the WSLC’s first website, the most popular feature of which was WSLC Reports Today (Updated DAILY…Almost Every Day!™) It included an original WSLC report or two and also linked readers to each day’s news related to unions and working people in the commercial press.

If that sounds familiar, that was the template for what would become The STAND.

Launched on May Day 2011, this “newsstand about taking a stand” was a unique undertaking: a daily news service curated and edited by a person, not via keyword searches or automated news aggregators. It’s been a labor-intensive project (in both senses of the word), but it’s been worth it. The award-winning STAND has become an important tool for publicizing unions’ activities, campaigns and causes, and it has demonstrated and promoted transparency in Washington’s labor movement.

I’ve been truly fortunate to get to do this important work for more than 32 years. Like many of the people I write about every day, I’ve enjoyed the benefits and stability of a good Union job. (Thanks, OPEIU Local 8!) During my tenure at the WSLC, I married the love of my life, bought a home, and raised/launched three wonderful children—the youngest of whom is following in her dad’s footsteps working as a labor communicator! I’m not ready to retire just yet, but I’m excited about trying something new for Act III of my career.

Thank you to the WSLC officers, past and present, for their guidance and inspiration and for trusting me with the production of a daily electronic newspaper. Thank you to all of the WSLC staffers over the years who taught me about labor movement, supported my work, and indulged my sense of humor. Thank you to the many leaders and rank-and-file members of WSLC-affiliated unions who I have had the absolute honor of working alongside these many years.

I leave confident that the WSLC and The STAND are in good hands. Continue to expect great things from the best AFL-CIO state federation in the country.

Thanks for reading.

This post originally appeared at The Stand.

Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 06/10/2024 - 08:20