Black History Month Profiles: Toni Burns
For Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently actively making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Toni Burns of the Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE).
Toni Burns has been a stagehand for IATSE Local 27 in Cleveland since 1994. He is a second-generation stagehand. He started his career as a high rigger, downrigger, head flyman and rose to a union steward. Burns was elected business manager for Local B27 from 2007 to the present. He is serving as an IATSE DEI member at large and a board member for Local 27 stagehands. In January 2024, Burns was elected as the 9th international vice president, becoming the first African American man to be elected to the IATSE General Executive Board.
Kenneth Quinnell Sun, 02/16/2025 - 10:25Black History Month Profiles: Aziza Miller
For Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently actively making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Aziza Miller of the American Federation of Musicians (AFM).
Aziza Miller is a longtime member of AFM Local 802 in NYC, where she currently appears on stage as a keyboardist in Alicia Keys’ Broadway musical “Hell’s Kitchen.” The show was inspired in part by Miller herself and just won a Grammy for Best Musical Theater Album. “My musical career is always growing and evolving,” she said. Her advice to up-and-coming musicians? "Stay focused. Remain open to learning. Don’t let perfection replace your heart and soul. Always stay humble and grateful. As for me, music is important because it’s life, my voice and my passion’s purpose!"
Kenneth Quinnell Sat, 02/15/2025 - 10:25‘Stand with Grocery Workers Who Are Overworked, Understaffed and Underpaid’: 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.
Wells Fargo Faces Labor Board Complaint Over Union Vote: “The National Labor Relations Board has accused Wells Fargo of illegally threatening and retaliating against employees and coercing workers to prevent fair unionization votes at a California branch. Most employees of an Atwater, California, branch who signed cards supporting unionization in December 2023 voted against unionization the following month, a regional director of the NLRB alleged, in a complaint filed Tuesday and seen by Bloomberg, The NLRB claims Wells Fargo coerced workers to vote against unionization. Wells Fargo has denied that allegation.”
Chicago History Museum Workers Want to Join an Arts Industry Unionization Wave: “About two dozen workers at the Chicago History Museum have signed a letter saying they plan to unionize. In the letter, issued Wednesday morning, the employees said they are seeking clear communication from management and competitive wages. The move is one in a wave of similar organizing efforts at other Chicago cultural institutions. The workers are organizing with the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, or AFSCME Council 31. Workers from the Art Institute of Chicago, the Field Museum and Newberry Library, among others, have joined that same union in recent years.”
‘Stand with Grocery Workers Who Are Overworked, Understaffed and Underpaid’: “For too long, the hardworking union grocery workers of Southern California have been overworked, understaffed, and underpaid. These essential workers, who showed up day in and day out during the pandemic to keep our communities fed, now find themselves struggling to make ends meet. With inflation driving up the cost of living at an alarming rate, it’s time for major grocery corporations—Kroger/Ralphs, Albertsons/Vons, Stater Bros., and Gelson’s—to step up and provide the fair wages and benefits that these workers have earned. Southern California UFCW Locals are gearing up for what will likely be the toughest round of negotiations in decades. Bargaining with Kroger/Ralphs and Albertsons/Vons kicks off on February 13, with Stater Bros. negotiations beginning on March 6. Dates with Gelson’s have yet to be scheduled, but our message to all these companies is the same: Grocery workers are rising for our futures, our families, and our communities.”
How Teachers Union Leaders Are Gearing Up for the ‘Resistance’: “Sure. So, ‘Resistance Committee’ is pretty much shorthand for ‘Committee to Help Everyone Have a Better Life.” I know that sounds very general, but AFT represents not just public education but also health care professionals and nurses. Particularly in this moment, where—you know, it began with hospitals and places of worship and schools being removed as sensitive sites—we really had to think about how we protect our students, families and patients.”
SEIU Hospital Workers Ratify Contract, Avert Possible Strike: “SEIU workers at UPMC Washington Hospital and UPMC have agreed to a new contract. According to a press release, the contract includes average raises of 12% over three years, with some workers getting as much as 19% raises over the life of the contract. The union said the new contract ‘is major progress from UPMC’s original proposal of a 1% raise per year.’ ‘Our new contract will help us support ourselves and our families with the increased cost of living. This proves that when health care workers unite and take action—even at a small community hospital—we can create concrete positive change,’ said Melissa Duran, the chapter president of SEIU Healthcare Pennsylvania at Washington Hospital, where she works as an EKG technician.”
Federal Workers, Lawmakers to Rally at Capitol Hill to Protect Civil Service: “Hundreds of federal workers are expected to gather on Capitol Hill Tuesday afternoon for the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) ‘Rally to Save the Civil Service.’ The event, part of AFGE’s annual legislative conference, aims to push back against efforts to politicize federal jobs.”
Retail Unions Are Gaining Ground as Employee Dissatisfaction Grows: “Americans are increasingly taking the side of workers as public opinion has turned overwhelmingly pro-union in recent years. Fifteen years ago, only about half of Americans approved of unions. Last year, it rose to 70%, just one percentage point below the 71% hit in 2022. That was a historic high since 1972 when Gallup began tracking union approval ratings annually.”
Union Leaders to Try Again on Rail Safety; Corporate Greed Sidetracked It: “Titus and Cassidy joined AFL-CIO Transportation Trades Department President Greg Regan, who organized the session, along with co-sponsoring Reps. Emilia Sykes, D-Ohio, and Chris Deluzio, D-Pa. Rep. Troy Nehls, R-Texas, sent a short video. All but Nehls discussed the massive Norfolk Southern derailment and venting of toxic chemicals into the. air and water precisely two years before, on Feb. 3, 2023, in East Palestine, Ohio. ‘The people of eastern Ohio have suffered so much from corporate greed,’ Sykes said. ‘Our greatest fear is a train derailment can become a mass casualty event. But we have yet to see meaningful reform out of Congress’ to force railroads to put safety and people over profits, said Regan.”
As Off Broadway Crews Unionize, Workers See Hope, Producers Peril: “A unionization wave sweeping across Off Broadway is poised to reshape the economics of theater-making in New York—for workers as well as producers. Striking stage crews have idled the nonprofit Atlantic Theater Company—the birthplace of the musicals ‘Spring Awakening,’ ‘The Band’s Visit’ and ‘Kimberly Akimbo,’ which all transferred to Broadway and won Tonys. The strike, which began last month, comes amid a drive to unionize stage hands and crews at Off Broadway theaters. The drive is being spearheaded by the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, or IATSE, which represents workers on Broadway and in Hollywood. It has won union contracts at two long-running commercial Off Broadway shows: The crew of ‘Titaníque,’ a musical that spoofs the film ‘Titanic’ and the pop star Celine Dion, approved a contract last October, and the crew at ‘Little Shop of Horrors,’ a revival of the sci-fi musical comedy, did so in January.”
First Labor Official Ousted from NLRB in 90 Years Is Now Suing Trump. Hear Why: “Former National Labor Relations Board member Gwynne Wilcox speaks to CNN’s Victor Blackwell after being fired by President Donald Trump, making her the first member of the board to be removed in 90 years. Wilcox called her firing “unprecedented” and has since filed a federal lawsuit.”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 02/14/2025 - 11:16Black History Month Profiles: Dominique Drew
For Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently actively making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Dominique Drew of the Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT).
Dominique Drew started in the union on her 18th birthday. And 22 years later, she’s built a rewarding career as an architectural metal and glass worker. When she discovered IUPAT’s Black CORE Committee, she had finally found a platform to make an impact within her union as a woman of color. She has flourished in her journey, becoming the co-chair of the Black CORE Committee, chairperson of CBTU's Under 40 Leaders and co-chair of Leaders Under 40 NYC Chapter. Currently, she serves as a member engagement specialist for IUPAT.
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: AFT and NEA Rally to Protect Students and Public Education
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
On Wednesday afternoon, the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) and the National Education Association (NEA) rallied in Washington, D.C., to protect students and our public schools.
Educators, parents, lawmakers and community leaders gathered to stand up for our schools in the face of funding attacks and policies that put politics before students. This demonstration came after the AFT held a press conference in the morning calling for Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, to be barred from accessing sensitive Department of Education data.
“Inside the Education Department, the world’s richest man and his minions have been rifling through 45 million people’s private student loan accounts and feeding the data into artificial intelligence in one of the biggest data hacks in U.S. history,” said AFT President Randi Weingarten. “That’s why this week, we sued the Education Department, [Office of Personnel Management] and Treasury for violating the Privacy Act by improperly disclosing the sensitive records of millions of Americans to DOGE staff.”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 02/14/2025 - 10:09Black History Month Profiles: Chancelle Mulela
For Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently actively making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Chancelle Mulela of the Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE).
Chancelle Mulela has been an IATSE Local 634 member for two years, working as a make-up artist. She has been a guest speaker with Reel Canada, a nonprofit organization based in Toronto dedicated to the presentation of Canadian films in Canadian schools, and encourages students to consider a career in film. She actively serves on Local 634’s DEI Committee and is currently working on establishing a young workers committee for the local.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 02/13/2025 - 10:18Worker Wins: "Standing Together for the Future of Our Profession"
Our latest roundup of worker wins includes numerous examples of working people organizing, bargaining and mobilizing for a better life.
First Avenue Workers Ratify Collective Bargaining Agreement: UNITE HERE Local 17 members who work at Minneapolis’ legendary music venue First Avenue and its six Twin Cities sister clubs have unanimously ratified their first-ever contract. The 230-person bargaining unit covers service and event staff across the seven different locations—a majority of whom are non-tipped workers. UNITE HERE reported that the new contract includes major victories for staff like wage increases, longevity pay, improvements to scheduling practices, better safety policies, protections for LGBTQIA+ workers and more. “I’ve watched a lot of my best friends leave the club because the job wasn’t sustainable or they didn’t feel respected, but this contract makes a lot of steps to change that,” said First Avenue event staffer Kyle Tappe. “I’ve been pinching money at the end of the month for as long as I can remember, and the raises will make things significantly easier for me.”
New York Magazine Walkout Averted as Union Secures Tentative Deal: Editorial staff at New York magazine—who are part of The NewsGuild of New York, CWA Local 31003—have successfully averted a strike after reaching a tentative agreement (TA) Friday with parent company Vox Media. Members of the New York Magazine Union, which include writers, editors, copy editors, fact-checkers, photo editors, designers and producers, will be voting on the TA later this month. The deal includes double-digit wage increases over the life of the contract, a ratification bonus, safeguards against the usage of artificial intelligence and more. “Guild members fought for new contract terms that reflect their commitment to building a newsroom that recognizes the value they bring to New York Magazine and Vox Media,” said Susan DeCarava, president of The NewsGuild of New York, in a press release. “Our New York Magazine Union members would not accept anything less than a fair contract that builds on the success of prior agreements and improves workplace terms and conditions. This contract more than achieves that goal.”
PS Workers Win Recognition as Part of Vox Media Union: Editorial staff at PS (formerly Popsugar) have successfully won voluntary recognition from parent company Vox Media and are now members of the Vox Media Union, part of the Writers Guild of America East (WGAE). The 20-person newsroom stood together with the larger Vox Media Union bargaining unit on the first day of negotiations to demand that they too be covered under the contract. The union, which now includes PS workers, are fighting for fair wages that keep up with the rising cost of living, a commitment to diversity initiatives, artificial intelligence safeguards and enhanced protections in the event of layoffs. PS workers said in a press release: “This marks a significant step forward in our efforts. We are encouraged that the company has listened to our concerns and made the right decision by voluntarily recognizing PS as part of the Vox Media Union. We look forward to joining our colleagues across the organization and are optimistic about a productive bargaining season ahead.”
UFCW Local 400 Secures Settlements Over Wage Theft and Discrimination: United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 400 has successfully won financial settlements from Union Kitchen and Mom's Organic Market on behalf of members who have been victims of wage theft and discrimination, respectively. At the ironically named Union Kitchen, Local 400 filed a lawsuit in March 2023 against the boutique convenience store chain and its owner for withholding tips left by customers in its Washington, D.C., stores that were intended for staff. The settlement included $133,333.34 for 79 impacted members and a requirement for Union Kitchen to pay the union’s attorneys’ fees. After staff at the Mom’s College Park, Maryland, location voted to join the UFCW, management sent an email announcing pay raises and other workplace improvements for all employees except those at the newly organized store. This was a violation of federal law, prompting Local 400 to file an unfair labor practice (ULP) charge, which resulted in a settlement of $17,302.67 to compensate 74 workers. “Our union is committed to protecting workers from unscrupulous bosses who are willing to violate their employees’ rights and break the law instead of properly compensating them for their hard work,” said Mark Federici, president of Local 400. “We’d like to thank the workers who took a stand and participated in this lawsuit for holding Union Kitchen accountable for its unlawful practices.” President Federici also said: “Given its reputation and purported values, we expected much better from MOM’s Organic Market, so we were especially disappointed that the company chose to violate the law and discriminate against its own employees. But no matter the employer, our union will always fight to protect our members’ rights and hold bosses accountable for breaking the law.”
Nurses at 3 Portland Legacy Hospitals Win Union Election: Nearly 2,300 nurses across three Legacy Health facilities in Portland, Oregon, have voted to join the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA), an affiliate of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT). The decisive victories at Legacy Emanuel Medical Center, Randall Children's Hospital and Good Samaritan Medical Center mean that workers are one step closer to being able to bargain over critical issues like patient care and safe staffing. This win comes as their fellow ONA members at Providence hospitals and medical centers across Oregon continue to fight for fair contracts that provide fair compensation and sustainable working conditions. “This victory is about nurses standing together for the future of our profession, our patients, and our hospitals,” said Sarah Zavala, an Emanuel nurse leader, in a press release. “We’re ready to build a strong contract that protects and empowers nurses so we can continue to provide the best care possible.”
Denver Anti-Hunger Nonprofit Votes to Join Union: Workers at the nonprofit Metro Caring are celebrating their near-unanimous election to join the Denver Newspaper Guild, CWA Local 37074. Now organized under the name Metro Caring Workers United, a supermajority of the staff signed union authorization cards and requested voluntary recognition back in December 2024. The nonprofit was founded to help address food insecurity in the Denver-metro area and the staff who work there hope that by forming a union, they can better preserve the organization’s mission and sustain their critical work. “I’m incredibly proud to have been part of the Metro Caring Workers United team as we worked toward certification of our union with the NewsGuild-CWA,” said Lucor Jordan, a member of the MCWU Bargaining Committee and founding member of the union. “While I’ve never been part of a union before, throughout my working life I’ve received the benefit of the work that unions put in over past generations protecting workers and helping to provide a safe, dignified work environment. I’m now proud to be part of a new chapter in the non-profit sector.”
UP Health System–Marquette Workers Ratify First Contract: After months of negotiations, United Steelworkers (USW) members who work for UP Health System–Marquette recently ratified their first union contract. The unit includes staff who work as licensed practical nurses (LPNs), care aides, lab assistants, payroll, IT, maintenance, office staff, and in other critical roles at the specialty care facility. Workers started organizing in 2023, with many expressing frustration with a decline in workplace satisfaction dating back to when the hospital was acquired by Duke LifePoint Healthcare in 2014. Contract wins include historic wage increases, higher on-call pay, capped annual health insurance premiums, improved safety protections and more. “UPHS Marquette is five blocks from my house,” said USW District 1 staff representative Bryan Fisher. “It’s the only Level 2 trauma center in the [Upper Peninsula] of Michigan. Our goal was always to attract and retain the best employees for Marquette residents. If I get taken to this hospital, these workers will care for me. I want a team of talented, fully-trained, well-compensated medical professionals administering care to our community.”
UNITE HERE Fights to Pass Ordinance to Protect Job Security: UNITE HERE Local 1 members are celebrating a proposal that is advancing to the Evanston City Council that will give more job security to hospitality and food service contract workers at Northwestern University. The Worker Retention Ordinance would ensure that the essential workers who cook, clean and maintain the private research university will not be fired if their contractor is replaced. Just a few years ago, in 2018, hundreds of staff found their jobs in jeopardy when Northwestern replaced its food service operators with its current contractor, Compass Group. The city’s Human Services Committee unanimously approved moving the ordinance to council members on Wednesday after hearing testimony from several UNITE HERE members. “I’m proud to serve the Northwestern community. No matter who the contractor is, I deserve to continue working at the campus I have called home for so many years,” said Rosa Villaseñor, who has been a hospitality worker at Northwestern for 15 years.
Lancaster Journalists Win Union Election: Journalists at LancasterOnline and the WITF public radio station voted to form a union this past Monday with The NewsGuild of Greater Philadelphia, Local 38010 of the Communications Workers of America (CWA). In 2023, the Steinman family, who owned LancasterOnline (LNP), gifted the news organization to the Harrisburg-based NPR affiliate, WITF. Workers planned to form a union after management laid off 10% of its staff one month after the new management took over. CEO Ron Hetrick had previously told news staff that the company wouldn’t reduce its workforce for five years. “When we approached the Guild in November, a lot of people were unhappy with recent changes in our leadership and in our newsroom,” said LNP investigative reporter Brett Sholtis. “But this quickly became about so much more than that. We want to make sure we’re able to keep serving the community. We all brought different things to the table, but we have been united in our belief that joining The NewsGuild is the very best way to ensure the future of news in Lancaster and central Pennsylvania for years to come.”
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 02/12/2025 - 13:01Tags: Organizing
The Time to Stand: 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:
We are currently accepting nominations for the 2025 Paul Robeson Award! Know an individual or organization that best exemplifies and practices the principles and ideals of Paul Robeson, please submit nominations by Wednesday, February 26, 2025 - https://t.co/bYVtsxMzdE pic.twitter.com/jIZosDKRMh
— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) February 8, 2025
AFGE:
This is the time to STAND! Thank you for your continuous support @RevDrBarber. pic.twitter.com/xRb0K229J0
— AFGE (@AFGENational) February 11, 2025
AFSCME:
HAPPENING NOW: We’re on Capitol Hill alongside@AFGENational, @NTEUnews, @TheNLRBU and union members to send a clear message to Elon Musk & DOGE — HANDS OFF public services! pic.twitter.com/reIhARICmt
— AFSCME (@AFSCME) February 11, 2025
Alliance for Retired Americans:
Expanding Medicaid actually helps spur economic growth! https://t.co/8qd9WHhYRc
— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) February 10, 2025
Amalgamated Transit Union:
Make your Valentine's Day Union-Made. #valentinesday #UnionMade pic.twitter.com/Q4sZhfnxMX
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) February 11, 2025
American Federation of Musicians:
AFM Stands United -- Solidarity Across Borders
The American Federation of Musicians is proud to be a union that includes members in both Canada and the United States. Our strength is the solidarity between our two countries. We stand in opposition to any actions, whether from… pic.twitter.com/H4M84XoDfM
— AFM (@The_AFM) February 5, 2025
American Federation of Teachers:
"We should not be fearful of the next generation. We should give them the support they need."
Watch & share:@rweingarten joined @TheRevAl on @PoliticsNation to discuss Trump's attack on the Department of Education. https://t.co/8hSttwjgu4
— AFT (@AFTunion) February 10, 2025
American Postal Workers Union:
In this latest podcast, President Dimondstein sat down with APWU leadership on a variety of topics:
▶️ Legislative/Political Director Judy Beard shares membership efforts that led to the passage of the Social Security Fairness Act;
▶️ Retirees Director Nancy Olumekor goes in… pic.twitter.com/UsbrysJGsA
— The American Postal Workers Union - APWU (@APWUnational) February 10, 2025
Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:
Proud to stand with our @AFGENational Union siblings in keeping corporate greed and billionaires OUT of the federal workforce! #1u pic.twitter.com/8XE0tcTcYx
— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) February 11, 2025
Boilermakers:
As we celebrate #BlackHistoryMonth, we examine the #Boilermakers history. Read the first in a series about the Boilermakers, race and auxiliary lodges https://t.co/TIpuGjbKXD pic.twitter.com/Ey3BI5B0Eh
— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) February 6, 2025
Bricklayers:
Trying to make college tuition cheaper? Apply for the US Bates Scholarship!
The BAC annually awards three scholarships to students whose parents or step-parents are US BAC members. The stipends are $5,000 per year for up to four years.
Full details here https://t.co/dEX5O569OY pic.twitter.com/wU2y21Gk0D
— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) February 11, 2025
Communications Workers of America:
Last month, CWA members and retirees across the country took time to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. For decades, CWAers have taken action to further the ideals of inclusivity and equity both within CWA and nationally. https://t.co/gqYUpcJcuK
— CWA (@CWAUnion) February 9, 2025
Department for Professional Employees:
Watch Angela, an @OPEIU member at IRC discuss her experience talking to coworkers about forming a union pic.twitter.com/k6xqmHZTQx
— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) February 10, 2025
Electrical Workers:
For the 33rd time, #IBEW broadcast professionals will bring the #Superbowl to the nation. pic.twitter.com/dPov4hYeVc
— IBEW (@IBEW) February 9, 2025
Heat and Frost Insulators:
A Lasting Legacy 🕊️
Hear from members of Leadership, as we reflect on the life of Dr. Glenn Perušek's & his positive contributions to our Union.
➡️Read now on pages 16-17 in the Winter Journal: https://t.co/dNNp9AID3m#InsulatorsUnion #Insulators #InsulatorPride pic.twitter.com/N4xJ84osSh
— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) February 7, 2025
International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers:
Matt Biggs, President of the IFPTE, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss pressing issues facing federal workers following the start of President Trump’s second term in office. https://t.co/UUv14tDn9e
— IFPTE (@IFPTE) February 3, 2025
Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:
📣 This week, the LCLAA Twin Cities Chapter hosted a community event to informed our members, workers, and their families, about their rights and how to be prepared during this challenging times 💪 pic.twitter.com/sq4BtUbD1Q
— LCLAA (@LCLAA) February 7, 2025
Labor Heritage Foundation:
LHT Podcast
The story of Carmelita Torres, the "Latina Rosa Parks,"https://t.co/n1iCoaillH pic.twitter.com/G4BJLA9N4i
— Labor Heritage (@LaborHeritage1) February 9, 2025
Laborers:
#DYK? In 2023, #LIUNA members in Michigan took on #RightToWork and WON—bringing back prevailing wages for hardworking laborers!
When we fight TOGETHER, we WIN. This is what we call union POWER in action! #FeelThePower #RTWisWRONG pic.twitter.com/1cW08YsMak
— LIUNA (@LIUNA) February 11, 2025
Machinists:
Labor will always stand up and fight back when we, the people, are under attack.
This is OUR government. We want it staffed and stable. We trust federal workers who dedicated their lives to civil service over a billionaire EVERY DAY. pic.twitter.com/XOWAhslrVK
— Machinists Union (@MachinistsUnion) February 11, 2025
Maritime Trades Department:
Support for Domestic Maritime Evident in U.S. House Hearinghttps://t.co/gCTYeEj6HC
— Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO (@Maritime_Trades) February 7, 2025
Metal Trades Department:
Groton-based submarine maker Electric Boat announces plan to hire 3K in 2025. About 400 new employees would work at the company’s shipyard in Groton. https://t.co/Mcyxz02BIF
— Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) February 4, 2025
Musical Artists:
AGMA Black Caucus announces February Meeting, honoring Black History Month. All Black AGMA Artists are invited to attend: https://t.co/kcflh0v9Ea pic.twitter.com/NIddZpXiBt
— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) February 6, 2025
National Air Traffic Controllers Association:
For February, the 2025 NATCA wall calendar features a photo of Allegheny County Airport and ATCT (AGC) taken by local member Dan Fostel.
To have your facility featured in the 2026 calendar, submit photos here. https://t.co/eLpzliAG6F pic.twitter.com/YzXEQj19Jl
— NATCA (@NATCA) February 11, 2025
National Association of Letter Carriers:
The #StampOutHunger Food Drive is just 3 months away. 📅On Saturday, May 10, set out non-perishable food by your mailbox for your letter carrier to collect. Since 1993, the members of NALC have helped fill food pantries nationwide. We couldn't do it without your support! pic.twitter.com/DO073cJEEF
— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) February 10, 2025
National Domestic Workers Alliance:
Domestic workers in California won life-saving protections amid the wildfires.
But there are still more health and safety protections needed for workers tasked with cleaning up hazardous waste. Read more in @MorePerfectUS's Substack: https://t.co/LvvH9fpeGh
— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) February 10, 2025
National Federation of Federal Employees:
Over the weekend, National President Randy Erwin joined CNN Newsroom Primetime to tell Americans why erratically downsizing the federal workforce would be a disaster for our members and the country.
Watch now: https://t.co/Tdtcaay7e4 pic.twitter.com/QyatZiVC9g
— NFFE (@NFFE_Union) February 10, 2025
National Nurses United:
Our first #MedicareForAll National Strategy Call of 2025 is rapidly approaching!
Join us Wednesday to hear about how we can fight back against the many threats facing the public health care system under the new presidential administration.https://t.co/doWyaLKLYv pic.twitter.com/3BGON3Czh9
— NationalNursesUnited (@NationalNurses) February 10, 2025
NWSL Players Association:
We stand with the LCMC Nurses and all @NationalNurses https://t.co/4vXx7Ztlcw
— NWSLPA (@nwsl_players) February 7, 2025
NFL Players Association:
Mental health is wealth 🧠
Our first Be Well event brought together mental health professionals, equipping them with resources to best serve our player members through a panel, resource fair and breathing session. pic.twitter.com/ojhfIpTp8u
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) February 9, 2025
North America's Building Trades Unions:
Workers know the truth: unions are the path to better wages, benefits, and job security.https://t.co/EtM05KAgzb pic.twitter.com/WJNld5DSqm
— The Building Trades (@NABTU) February 6, 2025
Office and Professional Employees:
Glenda Armstrong is a member of the General Association of Miramar Employees (GAME)/OPEIU Local 101. A former president of the local, Armstrong’s career has spanned nearly 30 years with the City of Miramar, Fla., and two decades with Local 101. #BlackHistoryMonth pic.twitter.com/PAAZGKCUQ7
— OPEIU | #UnionStrong (@OPEIU) February 7, 2025
Painters and Allied Trades:
DC14 held a 2-day Advanced Spray Class for journey workers and apprentices to practice and gain real-world experience with advanced painting technology.
Our training centers are at the top of the industry by providing our members with skills and job readiness! pic.twitter.com/Q9PqQwdmK8
— IUPAT (@GoIUPAT) February 11, 2025
Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:
Enacting the Retail Worker Safety Act we pushed for is critical to protecting our members & workers across the industry. @GovKathyHochul came by our packed Local 1-S Macy’s workers membership meeting today to speak with us about how the bill is being implemented & answer q’s. pic.twitter.com/C6UdaYeNEk
— RWDSU (@RWDSU) February 11, 2025
Roofers and Waterproofers:
If there are cellular antennas on your job, you may be exposed to radiofrequency (RF) radiation. One symptom of exposure to RF is dizziness, which can lead to a fall. Learn how to protect yourself: https://t.co/2Rv9mvICkO #roofersafety365 pic.twitter.com/4ZSNXpI1Xl
— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) February 10, 2025
SAG-AFTRA:
SAG-AFTRA offers its condolences to friends & family on the passing of Tony Roberts, a former National & NY Local Board member. The Tony-nominee was an accomplished performer on stage & screen, & a distinguished union leader. #SagAftraMember since 1962 https://t.co/8TigJ0MZPZ
— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) February 10, 2025
Service Employees International Union (SEIU):
LA County members are gearing up, training, and getting strike-ready to take on unfair labor practices. When we fight together, we win! https://t.co/S2uweb0RTc
— SEIU (@SEIU) February 10, 2025
The NewsGuild-CWA:
📚🔥 We Are the Union by @_ericblanc is out now—and it features The NewsGuild!
This book dives into the worker-to-worker organizing model that wins! RSVP here to join us for the book talk with the author and Guild members:
📅 Feb 25th @ 6PM ET
📍 https://t.co/uTeRY5ycfo
— The NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) February 7, 2025
Theatrical Stage Employees:
THE SUPER BOWL HALFTIME SHOW IS UNION MADE!
Shout out to @kendricklamar, and all the performers and behind the scenes workers that made this go off without a hitch! pic.twitter.com/9Ialfeks1I
— IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) February 10, 2025
Transport Workers Union:
Keeping Miami-Dade Transit rail cars rolling. @Twu291Rail Car Mechanics and Technicians at work at the Lehman Center maintenance facility in the @CityofMiami @IRideMDT
TWU 💪@TwuSamuelsen pic.twitter.com/K4q9L3IVDm
— TWU (@transportworker) February 6, 2025
Transportation Trades Department:
Labor history is black history.
During #BlackHistoryMonth, we honor the sacrifices that black workers made for liberation, and the labor movement continues to fight for economic and racial justice. pic.twitter.com/H4LqsgB8Ug
— TTD | America's Transportation Unions (@TTDAFLCIO) February 10, 2025
UAW:
Yesterday, UAW President Shawn Fain spent time on the shop floor at his home plant, Kokomo Casting, Local 1166. President Fain visited with Region 2B Director Dave Green and Stellantis Department Director, Kevin Gotinksy. pic.twitter.com/rnnGmRxOnL
— UAW (@UAW) February 11, 2025
UNITE HERE:
Super Bowl LIX is here, and we'd like to shout out the stadium workers of @unitehere23 who'll be serving up all your game day needs. No matter who you’re cheering for, the bartenders, servers, utility, and concessions workers will make sure you have a great game day experience! pic.twitter.com/5a6tfDdaH5
— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) February 9, 2025
United Food and Commercial Workers:
UFCW members make #SBLIX happen! 🏈
From UFCW Local 1546 Horween Leather workers crafting the footballs to grocery workers stocking your game-day favorites, we’ve got you covered for #SuperBowlSunday! pic.twitter.com/s2d5uwUSE0
— UFCW (@UFCW) February 9, 2025
United Steelworkers:
Our Black History Month spotlights continue with Jennifer Beard!
A true union activist since 2001, she’s president of Local 13-1327, involved in health & safety, Women of Steel, Veterans of Steel & more. She teaches because knowledge is power & honors those who paved the way. pic.twitter.com/msrboAyYvm
— United Steelworkers #EverybodysUnion (@steelworkers) February 11, 2025
Utility Workers:
✊🏽✊🏻✊🏿✊🏼✊🏾 Sending #solidarity to Michigan State Utility Workers Council members who are gearing up, quite literally, for contract negotiations! #UnionStrong #ItsBetterInAUnion pic.twitter.com/c8ptWUZgc0
— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) February 11, 2025
Writers Guild of America East:
We are thrilled to welcome workers at PS into the @vox_union after they won voluntary recognition from management!
We continue to demand @thedodounion be included as #oneuniononecontract. pic.twitter.com/dqqWNACn4S
— Writers Guild of America East (@WGAEast) February 10, 2025
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 02/12/2025 - 11:33Black History Month Profiles: Julian Ware
For Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently actively making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Julian Ware of the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE).
Julian Ware is from IFPTE Local 21, representing public sector workers across the San Francisco Bay Area. Ware serves as the vice president for Local 21 Oakland on the executive board, where he has served for the past several years. In addition to his roles as a board member, he continues his work as a steward. He has been an employee of the city of Oakland's IT Department since 2002, performing spatial analysis to empower the community. Ware is a San Francisco native and continues to reside there with his wife and two children.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 02/12/2025 - 09:50Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Workers at First Avenue and Sister Clubs Ratify First Union Contract, Secure 'Big' Raises
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Workers at legendary Minneapolis music club First Avenue and its six sister clubs in the Twin Cities ratified their first-ever union contract in a unanimous vote. The 230 event and service staff are now represented by UNITE HERE Local 17. In addition to First Avenue, the contract also covers Minneapolis clubs 7th Street Entry, Union Depot, and Fine Line, as well as St. Paul venues Fitzgerald Theater, Palace Theater and Turf Club. The three-year contract includes "big raises," longevity pay, improved scheduling, training and safety policies and protections for LGBTQ+ workers.
First Avenue, in its 55th year of operation, is one of the most hallowed music clubs in the country, because of its connection to Prince, who featured it prominently in his hit 1985 movie "Purple Rain."
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 02/12/2025 - 09:30Tags: Organizing
Black History Month Profiles: Walter D. Andrews
For Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently actively making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Walter D. Andrews of the Communications Workers of America (CWA).
Walter D. Andrews was born in Atlanta and served in the U.S. Air Force before joining Southern Bell in 1978. That same year, he began his activism with CWA Local 3204. Andrews made history as the first African American executive vice president and president of Local 3204, serving in these roles for nine years. He also held leadership positions with the AFL-CIO, CWA's National Minority Caucus and other labor committees. Andrews' long list of achievements includes receiving the Eugene Mays Award, the Martin Luther King Jr. Medal of Freedom and the Presidential Humanitarian Award from President Joe Biden in 2024.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 02/11/2025 - 10:30Service & Solidarity Spotlight: UFCW Local 400 Secures Settlements Over Wage Theft and Discrimination
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.
United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 400 has successfully won financial settlements from Union Kitchen and Mom's Organic Market on behalf of members who have been victims of wage theft and discrimination, respectively.
At the ironically named Union Kitchen, Local 400 filed a lawsuit in March 2023 against the boutique convenience store chain and its owner for withholding tips left by customers in its Washington, D.C., stores that were intended for staff. The settlement included $133,333.34 for 79 impacted members and a requirement for Union Kitchen to pay the union’s attorneys’ fees.
After staff at the Mom’s College Park, Maryland, location voted to join the UFCW, management sent an email announcing pay raises and other workplace improvements for all employees except those at the newly organized store. This was a violation of federal law, prompting Local 400 to file an unfair labor practice (ULP) charge, which resulted in a settlement of $17,302.67 to compensate 74 workers.
“Our union is committed to protecting workers from unscrupulous bosses who are willing to violate their employees’ rights and break the law instead of properly compensating them for their hard work,” said Mark Federici, president of Local 400. “We’d like to thank the workers who took a stand and participated in this lawsuit for holding Union Kitchen accountable for its unlawful practices.”
President Federici also said: “Given its reputation and purported values, we expected much better from MOM’s Organic Market, so we were especially disappointed that the company chose to violate the law and discriminate against its own employees. But no matter the employer, our union will always fight to protect our members’ rights and hold bosses accountable for breaking the law.”
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 02/11/2025 - 10:20Solidarity is the Secret to Our Strength: 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).
Colorado AFL-CIO:
Immigrants’ rights are workers’ rights. When the Trump administration talks about deporting millions of immigrants, that creates an environment where our most basic rights and freedoms are on the chopping block.
Read more here: https://t.co/SnQUNqmokt pic.twitter.com/xOxlxhww99
— Colorado AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOCO) February 5, 2025
Connecticut AFL-CIO:
"16 states introduced legislation to roll back child labor protections since 2022 and 6 states enacted laws lifting restrictions." -CT AFL-CIO President @EHawthorne3 on resolution to ratify amendment to the U.S. Constitution permitting Congress to regulate child labor pic.twitter.com/SuqGFyYm3y
— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) February 7, 2025
Illinois AFL-CIO:
Art + Labor have long been connected. As a Union actor and @sagaftra member, Black History Month gives Alma an opportunity to talk about the many contributions Afro Americans have made to our country. #BlackHistoryMonth #1u pic.twitter.com/vFmUejMW8u
— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) February 10, 2025
Maine AFL-CIO:
“The 2 tier wage system creates resentment between employees. A lot of people were expecting the two-tier wage system to go away. I just think they neglected the newer people too much.” — NALC 391 Pres. Mark Rose https://t.co/avTnsUGhP1
— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) February 7, 2025
Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
Meet Jeff Plaistead from @Ibew223, one of the many union members building the clean energy future in Massachusetts and across America. #CleanEnergy https://t.co/e4XODdweUA
— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) February 3, 2025
Minnesota AFL-CIO:
The @afgeunion, the largest federal employee union, grew to a record size of 319,233 active members after adding more than 14,000 in the past five weeks. That’s nearly as many as the union added in the previous 12 months. #BetterInAUnion https://t.co/2OIqWm9CE3
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) February 7, 2025
Missouri AFL-CIO:
📈 Did you know union workers earn 10-30% more than their non-union counterparts? Plus, they enjoy job security, pensions, and healthcare that provide peace of mind for their families. 💙 Life is better in a union! #UnionProud pic.twitter.com/JmNuy3cjVb
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) February 10, 2025
Nevada State AFL-CIO:
Happy first day of session!
We are excited to work with legislators, labor leaders, and affiliates to help ensure that pro-labor bills are passed during Nevada’s 83rd legislative session. pic.twitter.com/7VRtNpnwq6
— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) February 4, 2025
New York State AFL-CIO:
The Westchester/Putnam Central Labor Body is crushing these calls in support of Ken Jenkins for Westchester County Executive. Great work! 👏 pic.twitter.com/heBhVdOt8O
— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) February 7, 2025
North Carolina State AFL-CIO:
#FMLA turned 32 this week—used 500M times—but the U.S. is still one of only 6 countries without a national paid family leave program. Workers in NC lose $914M every year due to lack of #PaidLeave. Time to demand what we deserve! #WorkersRights #PaidLeaveForAll #Unionize pic.twitter.com/K7u8zLSowg
— NC State AFL-CIO // #CountMeIn (@NCStateAFLCIO) February 7, 2025
Ohio AFL-CIO:
Today is #SuperBowlLIX but the #Ohio @AFLCIO joined others at the @Tesla dealership in #Columbus to protest the attacks on working people. Was great to see young women who happened to be shopping join the protest. pic.twitter.com/1DzP2ULV8I
— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) February 9, 2025
Oregon AFL-CIO:
The ruling class will continue to try to divide working people.
That’s why solidarity is the secret to our strength. pic.twitter.com/SoYScL6lFX
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) February 10, 2025
Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:
Geisinger nurses are standing up for fair wages, safe staffing, and the respect they deserve. When nurses win, we all win! 💪🏥https://t.co/YncQqkSQOq
— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) February 8, 2025
Texas AFL-CIO:
We’re getting ready to kick off our first Citizenship Clinic of the year!
Thank you to all our union volunteers for showing up bright & early on a Saturday and @IBEW Local 20 for hosting 💪🏼 pic.twitter.com/QdBHoQK0YA
— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) February 8, 2025
Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:
Throughout this month we will honor all those who came before us and those currently fighting for racial justice in the workplace and in the Pacific Northwest.
We uplift Coalition of Black Trade Unionists, an independent voice of black workers within the trade union movement pic.twitter.com/XYxHmhGZCk
— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) February 2, 2025
Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) February 4, 2025
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 02/10/2025 - 13:44Black History Month Profiles: Denise Moore
For Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently actively making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Denise Moore of the Industrial, Technical & Professional Employees Union (ITPEU/OPEIU).
Denise Moore began working in the dining facility at Joint Base Andrews in 1983, becoming an ITPEU/OPEIU Local 4873 member. Eventually, she was elected shop steward and, in 2008, became a union representative.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 02/10/2025 - 10:03Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Nurses at Portland Legacy Hospitals Organize with the Oregon Nurses Association
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.
Nearly 2,300 nurses at three Portland Legacy hospitals (Legacy Emanuel, Randall Children's Hospital and Good Samaritan Hospital) voted to organize with the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA), an affiliate of National Nurses United (NNU). Voting results showed nearly unanimous support from nurses at all three facilities, with about 599 nurses at Randall Children's Hospital, 1,095 nurses at Legacy Emanuel and 596 nurses at Good Samaritan. The nurses will now negotiate their first union contracts.
"This victory is about nurses standing together for the future of our profession, our patients, and our hospitals," said Emanuel nurse leader Sarah Zavala. "We're ready to build a strong contract that protects and empowers nurses so we can continue to provide the best care possible."
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 02/10/2025 - 10:02Black History Month Profiles: Allen D. Jones
For Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently actively making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Allen D. Jones of the Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT).
Allen D. Jones is a dedicated and accomplished member of IUPAT Local 1010, representing Leon County Public Schools Support Staff. With 34 years of service, Jones has consistently demonstrated a commitment to advocating for his fellow members and strengthening the union's impact. For 24 years, Jones served as a steward. He then served as vice president for eight years. In recent years, Jones stepped into the role of local unit chair during a challenging time, when Florida passed anti-union legislation requiring public sector bargaining units to maintain 60% membership and creating barriers for members to pay union dues.
Black History Month Profiles: Lois Carson
For Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently actively making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Lois Carson of the Ohio Association of Public School Employees (OAPSE/AFSCME Local 4).
Lois Carson has been a secretary at Columbus City Schools for 37 years and works in the Department of Higher Education Partnerships. She is proud to serve as president of OAPSE, where she advocates for education professionals and students across the state. For years, Carson has fought to repeal Government Pension Offset and the Windfall Elimination Provision, outdated rules that unfairly denied public service workers their hard-earned Social Security benefits. In 2024, after years of nonstop advocacy, the Social Security Fairness Act finally became law, thanks to the hard work of union members like Carson who courageously shared their stories.
Kenneth Quinnell Sat, 02/08/2025 - 10:22Black History Month Profiles
For Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently actively making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country.
Check out the union members we've featured so far:
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 02/07/2025 - 10:46Black History Month Profiles: Wade Dennis
For Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently actively making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Wade Dennis of the Utility Workers (UWUA).
Wade Dennis grew up in the Bronx in New York City. After he graduated high school, he joined the Army and did one tour in Afghanistan as an infantryman. After his military service ended, he started a new career with Con Edison. He became a proud UWUA Local 1-2 member, eventually becoming a shop steward in his department. He was inspired to do more and ultimately received life insurance and securities licenses to help the middle class learn about investing and protecting their income. He was also elected as a financial observer.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 02/07/2025 - 09:56Defend Our Democracy: 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.
America’s Unions Sue DOGE, Launch the ‘Department of People Who Work for a Living’: “‘The government can work for billionaires or it can work for working people—but not both,’ said AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler, in the press release published Wednesday. ‘Elon is just getting started. And he has already tried to force workers doing essential services—including at the FAA and air traffic controllers even after the tragedy at Washington National Airport—to retire, gained access to the Treasury Department’s payment system with everyone’s private data, and is declaring entire government agencies like USAID shut down and blocking workers from accessing the building and their email.’ The organization pledged to doggedly report on how DOGE’s policies are impacting American workers.”
Federal Worker ‘Deferred Resignation' Program Temporarily Blocked: “‘We are pleased the court temporarily paused this deadline while arguments are heard about the legality of the deferred resignation program. We continue to believe this program violates the law, and we will continue to aggressively defend our members’ rights,’ American Federation of Government Employees National President Everett Kelley said in a statement.”
AFL-CIO Pushes Back on Elon Musk’s Campaign Against Federal Workers: “The nation’s largest federation of unions is starting a campaign to push back on Elon Musk, the world’s richest man, who has been empowered by President Trump to carry out a largely unchecked attempt to purge the federal work force. The campaign by the AFL-CIO. is called the Department of People Who Work for a Living, a play on Mr. Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency. ‘Government can work for billionaires or it can work for working people—but not both,’ Liz Shuler, the AFL-CIO president, said in a statement.”
Protests Against Trump and Project 2025 Are Planned in Cities Across the U.S.: “A movement to oppose the early actions of President Donald Trump’s administration is taking off online, with plans to protest across the U.S. on Wednesday. The movement has organized under the hashtags #buildtheresistance and #50501, which stands for 50 protests, 50 states, one day. Many of the protests are planned at state capitols, with some in other cities. The movement has websites and accounts across social media. Flyers circulating online decry Project 2025, a hard-right playbook for American government and society, and include messages such as ‘reject fascism’ and ‘defend our democracy.’”
U.S. Court Upholds Biden Minimum Wage Order for Federal Contractors: “A U.S. appeals court on Tuesday upheld Democratic former President Joe Biden's mandate setting a minimum wage that federal contractors must pay to their employees, which recently rose to $17.75 an hour. A three-judge panel of the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans rejected claims, opens new tab by Texas and two other Republican-led states that Biden in the 2021 executive order overstepped his powers to regulate federal procurement.”
Diversity Strengthens Our Workforce, Trump Attacks Weaken It: “It is disheartening to see that the Trump Administration has begun its effort to end DEI programs in federal agencies. Building diversity strengthens our institutions and we have made progress over the last several decades in advancing toward fairness and justice. Sadly, the attacks on diversity we are witnessing stand to not only halt that progress, but take us backward to a time when discrimination prevented so many of us from accessing opportunities afforded to others. In the Labor Movement, we have fought hard to make our membership look like the communities we serve, and we have come a long way in making our leadership look like our membership. Women and people of color have joined unions in increasing numbers and many of us have made our way to the very top to lead our unions at the local, state and national level.”
Cambridge Health Alliance Clinician Union Wins Certification: “Cambridge Health Alliance clinicians won union certification Thursday, giving a bargaining unit of 230 physicians, physician associates, and psychologists the right to negotiate with the health system over working conditions. The union, called SHARE CHA/AFSCME, was certified by Massachusetts’ Department of Labor Relations about two months after 160 clinicians informed the state of their intention to organize.”
For America to Maintain Competitive Edge, We Must Keep Clean Energy Tax Credits: “American clean energy is creating jobs and bringing cost savings for families across Southeast and Coastal Georgia. As a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), I know firsthand how important clean energy is to make our economy work for all of us. If we want to build back American manufacturing and keep our competitive edge over China, we need to invest in the energy of the future.”
Inside the Fight for the First Whole Foods Union: “On Monday, workers at Philadelphia’s Center City Whole Foods Market voted 130–100 to be represented by the United Food and Commercial Workers International Union. It marks the first time an Amazon-owned Whole Foods store has voted to unionize—and it is one of the first major union elections of the second Trump presidency.”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 02/07/2025 - 09:55
