Service & Solidarity Spotlight: St. Louis University Graduate Workers Vote to Join UAW
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Late last week, St. Louis University graduate students overwhelmingly voted in favor of joining the United Autoworkers (UAW).
The Graduate Workers of St. Louis University Union-UAW (GWSLUU-UAW) unit covers more than 500 people who work for the school as teaching and research assistants. This landslide victory came right before the National Labor Relations Board reported Monday that more than 50,000 students who work at U.S. universities have unionized during the past two years, proving that this win is part of a much larger national effort to organize increasingly precarious higher education institutions. Members cite the need for better working conditions and increased pay as core motivators, saying that before the organizing effort, graduate workers had not received a raise in more than a decade. Concerns around uncertainty in science funding and unstable regulation of visas were also issues that spurred the campaign.
“This feels like the greatest achievement of our lives,” said Zach Davis, a doctoral candidate in American studies. “For the first time in this university’s history, grad workers will have a seat at the table in all decisions that affect them. There will no longer be any conversations about us in which we are not an active participant and so long as this union is around, that is not going to change.”
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 11/20/2024 - 10:39National Native American Heritage Month Profiles: Kassy McDowell
Throughout National Native American Heritage Month, the AFL-CIO will be profiling leaders and activists to spotlight the diverse contributions Native Americans have made to the labor movement and toward expanding the rights of working people. Today's profile features Kassy McDowell of the Heat and Frost Insulators (HFIU).
Kassy McDowell is a proud Indigenous woman who champions diversity and inclusion for all underrepresented groups in the trades. As a certified journeyperson, she passes on her skill and knowledge to help future generations on their path to a career in the insulation trade.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 11/19/2024 - 09:59Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Rite Aid Workers Secure Tentative Agreement
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Rite Aid workers in Southern California, represented by the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW), secured a tentative agreement (TA) on Friday after months of intense negotiations with the drugstore chain.
The deal covers more than 3,500 UFCW members across locals 8GS, 135, 324, 770, 1167, 1428 and 1442. Workers voted overwhelmingly to authorize a strike a month ago, building on months of strategic actions, rallies and community conversations. Their endurance has paid off—the Rite Aid TA includes improved wages, health care benefits protections and pension security.
“This tentative agreement would not have been possible without the strength we showed during the bargaining process,” the UFCW Rite Aid Bargaining Committee said in a joint statement. “We stood up to the company’s unfair labor practices and showed them we were willing to fight for the contract we deserved. The power we showed at our stores translated to power at the bargaining table. Our solidarity and this victory will send a strong message to workers everywhere – when we fight, we win!
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 11/19/2024 - 09:19Worker Wins: Standing Together for Their Families
Our latest roundup of worker wins includes numerous examples of working people organizing, bargaining and mobilizing for a better life.
Hotel Workers Ratify New Contract at Major Waikiki Hotels: On Monday, more than 2,500 hotel workers represented by UNITE HERE Local 5 decisively voted to ratify a new contract at five Marriott-operated hotels in Waikiki. Members work for the Royal Hawaiian, Sheraton Princess Kaiulani, Sheraton Waikiki, Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort and the Westin Moana Surfrider. This victory comes on the heels of another recent win by UNITE HERE members at the Hilton Hawaiian Village, who reached a tentative agreement earlier this month. “For 40 days, Hilton Hawaiian Village workers led all of Local 5,” said Cade Watanabe, UNITE HERE Local 5 financial secretary-treasurer. “Their willingness to step-up and strike set a historic new standard for hotel workers, and without their sacrifice we would not have been able to secure similar agreements with Kyo-ya and Marriott. These agreements achieve our major goals—wages that help us get ahead and not just get by, job security and a commitment from our employers to address workload and staffing concerns that have a direct impact on our guests.”
CVS Workers Ratify Powerful New Agreement: Thousands of CVS pharmacists, clerks and technicians, represented by the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW), in California voted on Friday to ratify a new three-year contract with the pharmacy. The more than 7,000 workers won the new agreement after months of negotiations and an unfair labor practice strike in Los Angeles and Orange counties. Members across eight different locals are celebrating victories like annual wage increases through the life of the contract, more secure staffing levels and a more affordable health care plan. “After countless hours at the bargaining table and a strategic strike in seven Southern California pharmacies protesting the company’s illegal actions, the hard-working members of UFCW stood together for their families and each other and secured a strong contract,” the UFCW locals said in a joint statement. “This contract is a concrete and direct result of the tireless work of the member-led bargaining committee.”
Staff at Alaska’s Largest Newspaper Win Union Election: Newsroom staff at the Anchorage Daily News (ADN), the state’s largest newspaper, have decisively voted to join the Pacific Northwest Newspaper Guild, a local union of The NewsGuild-CWA. This massive win makes the ADN the only union newsroom in all of Alaska. The Anchorage News Guild members cited the need for fair wages, financial transparency and a sustainable workplace environment as core reasons why they organized. “A key thing for everyone is a desire for fair wages and regular wages that can keep up with the cost of inflation,” staff member Alex DeMarban said, who has been with ADN for about 15 years. “We want to get paid enough to continue working there and continue producing the high-quality product that Alaskans want.”
Missourians Vote for $15 Minimum Wage and Other Ballot Measure Wins Around the Country: On Election Day, Missouri voters voted to approve raising the state’s minimum wage to $15 an hour and guaranteeing paid sick leave to workers. This is one of multiple other pro-working families ballot measures that passed on Tuesday. Proposition A will gradually increase the current state minimum wage of $12.30 to $13.75 an hour on Jan. 1, 2025, and then again to $15 in 2026. The wage will then be adjusted annually based on inflation. This measure also requires employers with 15 or more workers to provide one hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked. This victory is in part due to the work of the Missouri AFL-CIO and other community groups that backed Prop. A, including the Missouri Workers Center, the Missouri NAACP and the ACLU of Missouri. Other wins across the country include:
- Paid leave measures passed in Alaska and Nebraska.
- School voucher measures that would hurt public school funding were rejected by workers in Colorado, Nebraska and Kentucky.
- Reproductive health care protection measures that passed in seven states.
Workers at Shedd Aquarium Win Union Election: Employees at the Shedd Aquarium have overwhelmingly voted to join AFSCME Council 31, making them the latest workers at the cultural institution in Chicago who have decided to organize for an improved workplace. More than 75% of workers voted for the formation of Shedd Workers United. The 180-person union includes staff who work in guest relations, learning and community, development, and other departments. Workers initially announced their intent to join AFSCME in April, citing concerns with work-life imbalance, low wages and a lack of communication from management and more. Despite union-busting activities from management, workers remained steadfast in their fight for representation. “We formed our union because we care about our co-workers, we love the aquarium and we want to make it better for all. We won by overcoming management’s divisive anti-union campaign,” the Shedd Workers United organizing committee said. “With our victory, we urge management to take a new approach and respect us as equals as we take our seat at the table to negotiate our first contract.”
NLRB Judge Orders Amazon to Let Workers Vote on Joining Union: A National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) administrative judge ordered a third union election at the Amazon warehouse on Tuesday in Bessemer, Alabama, that made history as the site of the very first union election by Amazon workers in 2021. The judge ruled that the corporation had once again engaged in a series of illegal practices to interfere with workers’ organizing efforts to join the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union-UFCW (RWDSU-UFCW). After the first vote, the NLRB ruled that Amazon violated federal labor law by encouraging workers to drop off their ballots in a mailbox it had installed at the warehouse that was surrounded with anti-union slogans. Now, after the second election that took place in 2022, the judge is ordering a third election, finding that management illegally removed union materials from the break room, among other violations. However, RWDSU-UFCW points out that the lack of additional remedies attached to the ruling means workers still don’t have access to a fair new vote. “Amazon has been found yet again to have violated basic labor laws,” said RWDSU-UFCW President Stuart Appelbaum in a statement. “Just as was ordered after the first election, a new election, now second rerun election, has again been ordered based on Amazon’s conduct, this time before even determining the final results of the rerun election. We reject, however, the [Administrative Law Judge]’s decision not to provide any of the significant and meaningful remedies which we requested and would be required for a free and fair election….There are two things clear in this decision; Amazon broke the law yet again, and labor law is stunningly broken in this country.”
Machinists at Boeing Approve New Contract, End Strike: Some 33,000 front-line workers at Boeing, members of Machinists (IAM) districts 751 and W24, voted to ratify a contract with Boeing that has instantly set a new standard for compensation and wages for aerospace industry workers. The deal followed a nearly two-month strike in Washington state, Oregon and California that drew widespread bipartisan public support. The contract includes a 43.65% compounded wage increase over the four-year life of the contract. “Working people know what it’s like when a company overreaches and takes away more than is fair,” said Jon Holden, president of District 751, and Brandon Bryant, president of District W24, in a joint statement. “Through this strike and the resulting victory, frontline workers at Boeing have done their part to begin rebalancing the scales in favor of the middle class – and in doing so, we hope to inspire other workers in our industry and beyond to continue standing up for justice at work. Through this victory and the strike that made it possible, IAM members have taken a stand for respect and fair wages in the workplace. Our members perform high quality and flight critical work for the airplanes we build and deserve a return on their labor investment that provides for the quality of life worthy of that labor.”
Largest Unit of County Workers in Colorado Form Union with AFSCME: A majority of workers at Arapahoe County Department of Human Services voted overwhelmingly to form a union as AFSCME Colorado. They are the largest unit of workers to organize under Colorado’s new collective bargaining law for county workers. The new unit covers 520 workers. They are focused on manageable workloads, fair pay, improving safety standards, and enhancing health care and job security. “I am proud of all the people I work with and the great work we do to serve our community,” said Heather Morgan, a social case worker. “Today is a win not only for us as employees but for the people we serve. Now we can work in partnership with the county in receiving the same support we strive to provide to others, and I am ready for this next chapter of collaboration.” “I love my work and the people I serve,” said Jordan McGinnis, a family engagement facilitator. “That’s why coming together in a union is so important. This is the best way for us to address high caseloads and turnover to improve client care.”
Weill Cornell Workers Successfully Vote to Form a Union with the TWU: Custodians, housekeepers and receiving clerks at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York City successfully organized with Transport Workers Union (TWU) Local 241. Workers at the medical facility will begin negotiating a first contract, seeking improved economic benefits and more security. Local 241 represents workers at Columbia University and other affiliated institutions in New York City. “This is a great victory for working families in New York City. We are ready and excited to work with Weill Cornell custodians, housekeepers, and receiving clerks to negotiate a first contract that improves the lives of workers and their families,” said TWU International President John Samuelsen. “We are proud to represent Weill Cornell workers as they negotiate their first contract. This organizing victory is a testament to what TWU locals and the International can achieve when we coordinate effectively,” Local 241 President Alex Molina said.
UFCW Members at Fred Meyer and QFC Ratify New Contract: After months of negotiations, members of United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 555 who work at Fred Meyer and QFC stores in Oregon and southwest Washington have overwhelmingly ratified a new three-year contract. Fred Meyers workers in Portland went on strike in August in response to multiple unfair labor practices. The agreement covers more than 11,000 members and ensures higher wages, stronger health care and a stable retirement. Additionally, the new contract improves the process to address contract violations. “Our new contract gives me peace of mind knowing that my healthcare is protected and my wages will keep up with the rising cost of living,” said Dale Russell Cronin, a Fred Meyer worker and Local 555 board member. “I’m especially thankful for the improvements in dental benefits and retirement. It feels good to know we are a fighting union and when we work together, we win.”
UFCW Members at Fred Meyer and QFC Ratify New Contract: After months of negotiations, members of United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 555 who work at Fred Meyer and QFC stores in Oregon and southwest Washington have overwhelmingly ratified a new three-year contract. Fred Meyers workers in Portland went on strike in August in response to multiple unfair labor practices. The agreement covers more than 11,000 members and ensures higher wages, stronger health care and a stable retirement. Additionally, the new contract improves the process to address contract violations. “Our new contract gives me peace of mind knowing that my healthcare is protected and my wages will keep up with the rising cost of living,” said Dale Russell Cronin, a Fred Meyer worker and Local 555 board member. “I’m especially thankful for the improvements in dental benefits and retirement. It feels good to know we are a fighting union and when we work together, we win.”
‘Saturday Night Live’ VFX Workers Win Voluntary Recognition: Visual Effects (VFX) workers for “Saturday Night Live” (“SNL”) are organizing with the Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) and have won official recognition of their union. The unit includes 16 VFX artists and leads who all signed union authorization cards. These workers are critical for making the variety show’s pre-recorded sketches possible, often under extremely tight deadlines. “Working here is tremendously fun, chaotic, and hugely rewarding,” said VFX Danny Behar in an IATSE press release. “We work 15 hour days every Saturday, delivering renders before cast & crew start rehearsals, and ending after the show has finished broadcasting. Our department is essential to the show’s success. For that and a multitude of other reasons, we deserve to have a seat at the table. We are the only department that currently does not have one.”
Baltimore Museum of Art Workers Overwhelmingly Ratify Their First Contract: With a nearly unanimous vote, workers at the Baltimore Museum of Art represented by AFSCME Maryland Council 3 overwhelmingly ratified their first union contract. The contract covers more than 130 museum workers, including security officers, facilities workers, museum educators, visitor experience staff, installation employees, curatorial employees and others. The contract runs through June 30, 2027, and includes raises of more than 13% over the life of the contract, reimbursements for purchases of protective workwear, seating for gallery officers at certain posts in the museum and improved leave, including six weeks of fully paid parental leave. “I believe that everyone, everywhere, should unionize,” said John Young, a gallery officer at the museum. “It’s important to remind those in charge that they do not provide the labor that ensures their income and that the rights and well-being of those who work under them should be their top priority.”
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 11/14/2024 - 13:55Service & Solidarity Spotlight: UNITE HERE Local 5 Members Ratify Landmark Contract at Waikiki Marriott Hotels
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
More than 2,500 workers represented by UNITE HERE Local 5 voted to ratify a new labor contract at five Marriott-operated hotels in Honolulu. Workers at the Royal Hawaiian, Sheraton Princess Kaiulani, Sheraton Waikiki, Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort and the Westin Moana Surfrider voted for the contract. Details weren't released, but the contract includes salary increases, and addresses workload and staffing issues. Ratification votes are set to continue for workers at the Sheraton Maui and Sheraton Kauai later this week.
"For 40 days, Hilton Hawaiian Village workers led all of Local 5. Their willingness to step-up and strike set a historic new standard for hotel workers, and without their sacrifice we would not have been able to secure similar agreements with Kyo-ya and Marriott," said Cade Watanabe, UNITE HERE Local 5 financial secretary-treasurer. "These agreements achieve our major goals—wages that help us get ahead and not just get by, job security and a commitment from our employers to address workload and staffing concerns that have a direct impact on our guests."
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 11/14/2024 - 09:28Winning a First Contract: In the States Roundup
It's time once again to take a look at the ways working people are making progress in the states. Click on any of the links to follow the state federations on X (formerly Twitter).
Alaska AFL-CIO:
Honoring the courage, sacrifice, and dedication of our veterans today and every day. Thank you for your service and the countless ways you’ve defended our freedom. #VeteransDay 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/lvOWEMafpW
— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) November 11, 2024
Arizona AFL-CIO:
🎉 Historic Win for Arizona! The AZ AFL-CIO congratulates @reprubengallego to the US Senate!
As a strong advocate for the PRO Act, Ruben has fought for:
✅Good-paying jobs
✅Access to healthcare
✅Lower costs for families pic.twitter.com/1BBj0CBfnX
— Arizona AFL-CIO (@ArizonaAFLCIO) November 12, 2024
California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:
Check us out on that OTHER platform. 😏https://t.co/lNyFHb0rht
— California Federation of Labor Unions (@CaliforniaLabor) November 12, 2024
Colorado AFL-CIO:
Labor Exchange - Tune In Tonight (11/11) at 6 PM on KGNU 88.5FM/1390AM! 📻
On today’s epiode of the Labor Exchange we talk the 2024 election with political strategist and community leader Alvina Vasquez. @AlvinaVasquez https://t.co/fcnyFU2qAf
— Colorado AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOCO) November 11, 2024
Connecticut AFL-CIO:
Presidential administrations change, but the labor movement's values do not. pic.twitter.com/EEOaOrttzW
— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) November 7, 2024
Florida AFL-CIO:
— Florida AFL-CIO (@FLAFLCIO) November 6, 2024
Illinois AFL-CIO:
We can’t wait any longer. Equal pay for equal work. It’s time to #FixTierTwo. pic.twitter.com/mOLDTmhgaA
— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) November 13, 2024
Maine AFL-CIO:
Congratulations to the Bangor Daily News staff on winning your first contract! https://t.co/rGlPx59rWS
— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) November 12, 2024
Maryland State and D.C. AFL-CIO:
Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
Pres. Lynch addressed 100s of female middle and high school students at the MA Girls in Trades Conference @IBEW103, encouraging young women to pursue careers in union construction trades. Programs like GIT provide new generations with access to high-paying, high-skilled careers pic.twitter.com/S1SRHUvcV3
— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) November 13, 2024
Michigan State AFL-CIO:
Minnesota AFL-CIO:
Help spread the word! Local unions have scheduled a Red Cross blood drive at the Saint Paul Labor Center, from noon to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 4. https://t.co/3AXeS6Ot6d #BetterInAUnion
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) November 12, 2024
Mississippi AFL-CIO:
Missouri AFL-CIO:
Our thoughts are with Kevin's family and friends. Heartbroken. https://t.co/mc6yMCqPy8
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) November 13, 2024
Nevada State AFL-CIO:
Today we honor and thank those who have served our country🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/rjhuoTetvt
— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) November 11, 2024
New York State AFL-CIO:
Congrats, @LauraAGillen! pic.twitter.com/JaGzb68mLv
— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) November 7, 2024
North Carolina State AFL-CIO:
Congrats to @Elaine4NC in her victory in the race for NC Secretary of State 🎉 Your trailblazing service for the people of our state continues! #countmein pic.twitter.com/Zb8TpIuoo6
— NC State AFL-CIO // #CountMeIn (@NCStateAFLCIO) November 6, 2024
Ohio AFL-CIO:
This @ClevelandAFLCIO @IBEW Local 38 family at the #WhiteHouse with @POTUS to highlight how an @AFLCIO #union can change the lives of workers is awesome! https://t.co/5UTioqDI2o
— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) November 13, 2024
Oregon AFL-CIO:
It’s officially #SolidaritySeason: Starting tomorrow, 5 unions will be on strike at locations across Oregon.
💥@Oregon_AFSCME
💥@BCTGM
💥@CGE6069
💥@albany_teachers
💥@Teamsters
Find a picket line near you at https://t.co/bb7P96KEa4 #UnionStrong #OregonLabor pic.twitter.com/q8vl7A4OOH
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) November 12, 2024
Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:
To our brothers and sisters serving today and yesterday, we honor you every day. pic.twitter.com/etj3myjgvk
— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) November 11, 2024
Rhode Island AFL-CIO:
Great story from @Kate_mwilkinson about how Offshore Wind is transforming our economy, and creating great paying union jobs.
Inside Quonset: An ecosystem of companies working on RI's newest offshore wind farm https://t.co/n2x5N5DbDP
— Rhode Island AFL-CIO (@riaflcio) November 13, 2024
Texas AFL-CIO:
Solidarity with striking @ZeniMaxWorkers ✊
Texas labor has your back! #1u https://t.co/PT2VSpVncO
— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) November 13, 2024
Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:
Congratulations to @UniteHereLocal8 members at the Seattle airport Doubletree and Hilton on this major contract win!
Strikes work 💯 https://t.co/uMjYJoY4bL
— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) November 12, 2024
Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
Students, Faculty Call on Marquette U to Recognize Union https://t.co/48YNy2y7W6
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) November 13, 2024
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 11/13/2024 - 16:10Service & Solidarity Spotlight: CVS Workers Ratify Powerful New Agreement
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Thousands of CVS pharmacists, clerks and technicians, represented by the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW), in California voted on Friday to ratify a new three-year contract with the pharmacy.
The more than 7,000 workers won the new agreement after months of negotiations and an unfair labor practice strike in Los Angeles and Orange counties. Members across eight different locals are celebrating victories like annual wage increases through the life of the contract, more secure staffing levels and a more affordable health care plan.
“After countless hours at the bargaining table and a strategic strike in seven Southern California pharmacies protesting the company’s illegal actions, the hard-working members of UFCW stood together for their families and each other and secured a strong contract,” the UFCW locals said in a joint statement. “This contract is a concrete and direct result of the tireless work of the member-led bargaining committee.”
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 11/13/2024 - 11:01Protesting for Better Staffing Practices: The Working People Weekly List
Every week, we bring you a roundup of the top news and commentary about issues and events important to working families. Here’s the latest edition of the Working People Weekly List.
How Julie Su Negotiated the End of the Boeing Strike: “While the world braced for the election earlier this week, acting labor secretary Julie Su was busy solving another crisis—helping to end the Boeing strike.”
Coastal Bend Nurses Ratify New Union Contract at CCMC: “Nurses at Corpus Christi Medical Center (CCMC) are seeing changes that will help improve workplace practices and all-around patient care. That's thanks to a new three-year contract that was ratified by HCA Management for nurses represented by National Nurses Organizing Committee/National Nurses United (NNOC/NNU). More than 700 nurses across Texas will be impacted by the changes. KRIS 6 News previously reported in June that nurses at CCMC protested for better staffing practices.”
Staff at Alaska’s Largest Newspaper Approve New Union, Election Results Show: “Newsroom staff at the Anchorage Daily News, the state’s largest newspaper, have voted to unionize, according to election results published Tuesday by the National Labor Relations Board. The vote was 13–4 in favor of unionization, with two eligible voters not participating. The Anchorage News Guild, which will represent newsroom staff, had requested that management voluntarily recognize the union, but the newspaper’s ownership declined and requested the federally managed election.”
JT Newsroom Employees' Union is Recognized: “Newsroom employees at the Racine Journal Times are praising their employer for not blocking their attempts to unionize. Less than three weeks after the paper’s editorial staff announced a plan to organize, the Racine NewsGuild was voluntarily recognized by Lee Enterprises as part of the Kenosha Newspaper Guild bargaining unit. The Iowa-based company owns both papers. The next step is for the Racine NewsGuild to negotiate a contract.”
Boeing Strike Ends as Workers Accept New Contract: “Boeing's U.S. West Coast factory workers accepted a new contract offer on Monday, ending a bitter seven-week strike that halted most jet production and deepened a financial crisis at the troubled planemaker. The union said members voted 59% in favor of the new contract, which includes a 38% pay rise over four years, easing pressure on new CEO Kelly Ortberg after two previous offers were voted down in recent weeks.”
Pennsylvania Faculty Union Joins National AFT: “The union representing more than 5,000 faculty and coaches across Pennsylvania’s 10 state-owned universities is the latest to affiliate with AFT, a nationwide union of education and other workers. Members of the Association of Pennsylvania State College and University Faculties approved the affiliation in a three-day election last week. It begins Jan. 1.”
Dow Machinists End Strike After Agreeing to New Deal: “The strike involving 77 union machinists at Dow Chemical/Union Carbide in South Charleston is over. Members of International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Local 598 accepted the deal Thursday evening. The new contract ends a 10-day strike. ‘Congratulations to the membership of IAM Local 598 for standing strong for the contract they deserve,’ IAM District 54 President T. Dean Wright Jr. said in a news release. ‘Thanks to their solidarity, we have won a victory for our members, their families and the entire community. I would like to thank the District 54 staff, Local 598 officers, our members and their families, the South Charleston community, and International President Brian Bryant for all of their support.’”
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 11/12/2024 - 13:30Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Workers at Nonfiction Production Company McGee Media Ratify First Contract
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Workers at McGee Media, the nonfiction production company behind PBS’ "Finding Your Roots with Henry Louis Gates, Jr.," agreed to their first union contract. The contract covers 25 staffers who work as producers, researchers and archivists, and are now represented by the Writers Guild of America East (WGAE). They unanimously voted to ratify the contract last week.
The contract establishes 3% annual wage increases for union members and health care contributions through the Entertainment Industry Flex Plan. The three-year deal also requires 10 vacation days and a minimum of three sick days after two weeks of employment. The deal also includes language covering the use of AI in the workplace: It necessitates advanced notice and “discussion” if AI tools are used by the company.
Members of the bargaining committee stated that the contract “sets a new standard for the documentary television industry and reflects the progressive values of McGee Media.”
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 11/12/2024 - 09:51Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Workers at Shedd Aquarium Win Union Election
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Employees at the Shedd Aquarium overwhelmingly voted to join AFSCME Council 31, making them the latest workers at the cultural institution in Chicago who have decided to organize for an improved workplace.
More than 75% of workers voted for the formation of Shedd Workers United. The 180-person union includes staff who work in guest relations, learning and community, development, and other departments. Workers initially announced their intent to join AFSCME in April, citing concerns with work-life imbalance, low wages and a lack of communication from management and more. Despite union-busting activities from management, workers remained steadfast in their fight for representation.
“We formed our union because we care about our co-workers, we love the aquarium and we want to make it better for all. We won by overcoming management’s divisive anti-union campaign,” the Shedd Workers United organizing committee said. “With our victory, we urge management to take a new approach and respect us as equals as we take our seat at the table to negotiate our first contract.”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 11/08/2024 - 09:58Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Workers at Alaska’s Largest Newspaper Approve New Union
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Workers in the newsroom at the Anchorage Daily News, the state’s largest newspaper, voted 13–4 for a new union. With the vote, the Anchorage Daily News becomes the only union newsroom in Alaska. The workers intend to advocate for fair wages, financial transparency and a sustainable workplace environment.
“My generation of reporters, I feel like we just kind of expected to be doormats, and my professors told me—they’re like, look, you’re taking a vow of poverty when you start this career,” said Kyle Hopkins, a longtime reporter. “Nobody expects to get rich or even be anything beyond kind of middle class or even lower middle class, but I just want the people I work with—and myself, if I lose the ProPublica connection—to be able to pay for child care and health care. Just the bare minimum.”
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 11/07/2024 - 10:10Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Weill Cornell Workers Successfully Vote to Form a Union with the TWU
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Custodians, housekeepers and receiving clerks at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York City successfully organized with Transport Workers Union (TWU) Local 241.
Workers at the medical facility will begin negotiating a first contract, seeking improved economic benefits and more security. Local 241 represents workers at Columbia University and other affiliated institutions in New York City.
“This is a great victory for working families in New York City. We are ready and excited to work with Weill Cornell custodians, housekeepers, and receiving clerks to negotiate a first contract that improves the lives of workers and their families,” said TWU International President John Samuelsen.
“We are proud to represent Weill Cornell workers as they negotiate their first contract. This organizing victory is a testament to what TWU locals and the International can achieve when we coordinate effectively,” Local 241 President Alex Molina said.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 11/05/2024 - 10:22Happy Election Day, Kenneth! Go Vote for Harris-Walz
Democracy is at the heart of America’s labor movement—and now it’s time to cast our votes.
We’ve still got a ton of work to do for Kamala Harris, Tim Walz and our pro-union candidates up and down the ballot before the polls close tonight. We all know this election will be close. Your voice truly can make the difference.
- Make a plan to vote! Start by looking up your polling location.
- Learn more about which pro-worker candidates have been endorsed by the AFL-CIO.
- Learn about your state’s voting rules.
If you have any problems voting or see something strange at your polling location, contact our Election–Voter Protection Hotline:
- English: 866-687-8683
- Spanish/English: 888-839-8682
- Asian Languages/English: 888-274-8683
- Arabic: 844-925-5287
Once you’ve voted, please tell all your friends and remind them to vote, too. Send a text or email. Post on your favorite social media account. Make a call to check in. If you find someone who needs a ride or a babysitter, please pitch in and help.
And if you have some spare time today, grab your phone and make calls to our key union contacts in battleground states, reminding them to vote. You don’t even need to leave your desk or couch.
Unions know how to get things done. Let’s go win big.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 11/05/2024 - 10:04Service & Solidarity Spotlight: UFCW Members at Fred Meyer and QFC Ratify New Contract
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
After months of negotiations, members of United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 555 who work at Fred Meyer and QFC stores in Oregon and southwest Washington overwhelmingly ratified a new three-year contract.
Fred Meyers workers in Portland went on strike in August in response to multiple unfair labor practices. The agreement covers more than 11,000 members and ensures higher wages, stronger health care and a stable retirement. Additionally, the new contract improves the process to address contract violations.
“Our new contract gives me peace of mind knowing that my healthcare is protected and my wages will keep up with the rising cost of living,” said Dale Russell Cronin, a Fred Meyer worker and Local 555 board member. “I’m especially thankful for the improvements in dental benefits and retirement. It feels good to know we are a fighting union and when we work together, we win.”
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 10/31/2024 - 10:48Ignore the Polls. This Election Is Within the Margin of Effort.
Gwen Mills is the international president of UNITE HERE, the hospitality workers union. Before becoming the union’s first-ever female president earlier this year, she served as secretary-treasurer and political director, overseeing UNITE HERE’s swing state field canvass programs.
I’m not anxious about the results of the election.
Don’t get me wrong, as the leader of a union of 275,000 hospitality workers in this
country, the outcome in November will have massive implications for us. Will we spend
the next four years on defense, fending off attack after attack as Trump and his allies
attempt to crush unions, deport our immigrant members, and take away women’s
rights? Or will we be able to stay on offense, with a Harris administration that enables
us to focus on improving wages and working conditions in the hospitality industry?
We could spend a lot of time trying to read the tea leaves on races that are within the
margin of error. Or instead of being anxious, we can instead focus our energy on the
margin of effort. My union, UNITE HERE, is choosing the latter.
UNITE HERE is running the largest independent labor-led canvass operation in the
country. Over 1,400 housekeepers, cooks, dishwashers, concessions workers, and
more have already knocked on over 2 million doors. By election day, we’ll be more than
2,000 strong, aiming to hit at least 3.5 million doors in ten key battlegrounds.
Close elections are won or lost on the ground. Billions of dollars will be poured into the
airwaves, generating a cacophony of noise that many voters are desperate to tune out.
The answer to cutting through the noise? A real person, from your community, knocking
on your door to have a face-to-face conversation. It’s old-fashioned, lowercase “d”
democracy. Neighbors talking to neighbors about the issues in their daily lives.
We’re not your typical paid canvass. Our own union members—workers who are
leaders among their co-workers, who know how to organize—take a leave of absence
from their jobs to work full-time as canvassers. Every day, they’re out in their
communities talking to other working-class voters with similar demographics about real
kitchen table issues.
When our members, predominantly women of color and immigrants, knock on their
neighbors’ doors, they bring a unique credibility. Through cycles of investment in real
door-to-door organizers, we win elections, and we build the movement needed to push
the winners to deliver for working people.
For that reason, our canvassing program is about more than the immediate election.
When we knock on doors in Philadelphia, our first question in hard-hit neighborhoods is:
“Do you have a job?” We open the conversation with what’s really on their mind, and
connect people to hospitality training opportunities, pathways to a good union job. And
we discuss politics and get out the vote.
Gregory Moody was born and raised in North Philadelphia. He joined our hospitality
training program in 2022 and was trained as a cook. He was then hired at the stadiums
and became a member of UNITE HERE Local 274. Earlier this year he went on strike
with his coworkers to fight for fair wages, health benefits, and respect. Now he’s
applying the organizing skills he learned with the union to canvassing full-time for
Harris, talking to his neighbors about their future.
Nancy Chávez is a dishwasher at the Bellagio in Las Vegas and a member of Culinary
Workers Union UNITE HERE Local 226. She’s a leader among her coworkers, and
she’s knocking on doors, talking to her neighbors about the economy and the fact that
Latinos can make the difference in this election.
Kearra Rosales, a member of UNITE HERE Local 11, works alongside her aunt and
grandmother at the Downtown Doubletree in Los Angeles as a front desk agent. Last
year she went on strike to protect healthcare and secure her grandmother's access to
insulin. Now she’s knocking doors in Tucson for Kamala Harris to improve healthcare
access in working class communities.
The ground game is often dismissed, seen as a last-ditch effort. It shows in the $165
million fundraising shortfall that grassroots groups are facing. But when elections are
this close, canvassers like Gregory, Nancy, and Kearra can make the critical difference
with voters who share their experiences and are on the fence about who to vote for, or
whether to vote at all.
In 2020, Democrats won the decisive states of Nevada, Arizona, and Pennsylvania by
just 124,608 votes combined. UNITE HERE mobilized over 440,000 infrequent voters to
vote for Biden, including 125,000 who had not voted in the previous presidential
election. In Nevada and Arizona, the number of these voters exceeded the margin of
victory. That is the margin of effort.
So in these final six days, don’t sit around fretting about the polls. Go knock on some
doors, or support groups that are.
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Fred Meyer Workers Agree to New 3-Year Contract After Strike
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Thousands of Portland-area Fred Meyer employees went on strike in early September. Members of United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 555, the largest private sector union in Oregon, voted "overwhelmingly" to ratify a new three-year contract. The contract covers 4,500 workers for Fred Meyer and QFC stores in Oregon and southwest Washington. The contract provides higher wages, stronger health care, stable retirement and allows the union to better address contract violations.
"This agreement ensures significant wage increases, maintains industry-leading healthcare coverage, enhances dental benefits, and strengthens retirement security for more than 11,000 workers," Local 555 said.
"This contract is a victory for members of Local 555, who showed strength and solidarity throughout the entire fight," said Dan Clay, president of UFCW Local 555. "It was won by union workers coming together and by a community standing with them."
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 10/29/2024 - 09:53Get Out the Vote: In the States Roundup
It's time once again to take a look at the ways working people are making progress in the states. Click on any of the links to follow the state federations on X (formerly Twitter).
Alaska AFL-CIO:
Life gets busy. Plan to vote at a time that best suits you! 🗳️
Click the link below to find an early voting location near you. https://t.co/VxxbMInGim
— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) October 25, 2024
Arizona AFL-CIO:
This morning we joined our fellow #UnionSiblings for a Labor Rally and canvass launch at Arizona Education Assiciation in support of Kamala Harris and Tim Walz!
— Arizona AFL-CIO (@ArizonaAFLCIO) October 12, 2024
California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:
It was great seeing so many union volunteers & elected officials out walking for @WillRollinsCA — Eight of our @californialabor Vice Presidents made it out today!
Big turnout from @udw_union @CFTunion @CSEA_Now @UFCW @CAFirefighters @TheIronworkers @IBEW & more! pic.twitter.com/BISEsZEGij
— California Federation of Labor Unions (@CaliforniaLabor) October 26, 2024
Colorado AFL-CIO:
Did you know union members get a free t-shirt when they volunteer with us? 👻 Join us today, link in bio pic.twitter.com/G9ZtOs63gp
— Colorado AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOCO) October 24, 2024
Connecticut AFL-CIO:
Union members are getting out the vote for pro-worker candidates in Waterbury today! #LaborVotes #GOTV pic.twitter.com/YLHYAdHJDa
— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) October 26, 2024
Florida AFL-CIO:
Early voting for the 2024 general election has started in several counties this morning. If you haven't voted already, find a convenient early voting location close to you at https://t.co/EugzngMA1S!
— Florida AFL-CIO (@FLAFLCIO) October 21, 2024
Georgia State AFL-CIO:
Need a ride to the polls? Union members and workers' rights supporters, get your voice heard. Rides provided by Georgia Coalition for the People's Agenda from early voting to November 5, 2024. Schedule at https://t.co/a3DqfGznS0. 💪 #YourVoteMatters #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/xg7BggVpEb
— Georgia AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOGeorgia) October 15, 2024
Illinois AFL-CIO:
A big weekend in Rockford for their 5th annual Labor Recognition Banquet. Thank you RUL President Sara Dorner, IL AFL-CIO President Tim Drea and UAW President Shawn Fain for reminding us that labor wins when we harness the power of a unified movement and voice. #1u pic.twitter.com/Tq4B7FUqQU
— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) October 28, 2024
Maine AFL-CIO:
Today one of union canvassers knocked on our 20,000th door of the campaign season! Our goal is to knock on 25,000 doors to talk to voters about pro-labor legislative candidates in key battleground districts by the election. pic.twitter.com/PX2FJM0Ybq
— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) October 24, 2024
Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
Working people are ready to elect @KamalaHarris, @JoyceCraigNH, @MaggieG603, and @ChrisPappasNH in New Hampshire! Huge crowd on the doors in Nashua this morning with the @NHAFLCIO #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/MH6RbQASs5
— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) October 26, 2024
Michigan State AFL-CIO:
This is what standing with union workers looks like. While Trump trashes Detroit, insults auto workers, and brags about denying workers overtime, Kamala Harris is fighting to save the livelihood of the working class. https://t.co/RMjc7EbkIE
— Michigan AFL-CIO ✊ (@MIAFLCIO) October 17, 2024
Minnesota AFL-CIO:
Minnesota AFL-CIO President Bernie Burnham writes: "Project 2025 calls for rolling back more than a century of progress that created America’s middle class. In effect, the American Dream could become a nightmare for working people." https://t.co/nxT7S9F0vS #BetterInAUnion
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) October 28, 2024
Missouri AFL-CIO:
We had a great labor walk last weekend for @Shirleymata60 and @MaggieforMO! pic.twitter.com/sntNLgPDw1
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) October 27, 2024
Montana State AFL-CIO:
In the 2022 election, 6% of the Montana electorate effectively elected 88% of our State House, and 36 candidates had no opponent in the General election. That’s why we need elections that put voters first. For more information visit: https://t.co/jk4tIOFO8L #mtpol #mtnews pic.twitter.com/khXjDfcWW0
— Montana AFL-CIO (@MTaflcio) October 24, 2024
Nevada State AFL-CIO:
“We are the ones who knock on doors!”
What a treat to have Breaking Bad’s @BryanCranston help kickoff one of our final canvass launches. 9 days left and we’re giving it everything we’ve got for the #HarrisWalz ticket 👏🏻 pic.twitter.com/orLEdt8mks
— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) October 27, 2024
New York State AFL-CIO:
At least 140 Trump advisers contributed to Project 2025. See how the plan would impact workers: https://t.co/i1RPsRIgSU
— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) October 27, 2024
North Carolina State AFL-CIO:
We want the best education and the brightest future for our children, but how will Trump's #Project2025 impact kids in North Carolina? Let’s break it down. 🧵 pic.twitter.com/2YcBTJNHoO
— NC State AFL-CIO // #CountMeIn (@NCStateAFLCIO) October 25, 2024
Ohio AFL-CIO:
It's never too early to talk about re-electing @SherrodBrown. Thanks to these @UAW members who were up at at the plant gates at 6am to talk with their coworkers about Sherrod and voting #YesOnIssue1 to end gerrymandering in #Ohio pic.twitter.com/1M4N7tkoRV
— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) October 28, 2024
Oregon AFL-CIO:
The Oregon AFL-CIO is proud to endorse @RepTawnaSanchez for Oregon's 43rd House District.
Learn about all of Oregon's labor endorsed candidates at https://t.co/B1B90w7Rqn.#ORpol #Labor2024 #Election2024 #Endorsement pic.twitter.com/xGrnZjyHWq
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) October 28, 2024
Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:
Thank you to card-carrying union member Dr. Jill Biden for helping us GOTV with the Delaware County CLC, @PFTLocal3, and @UFT!
When we vote, we WIN!#labor2024 pic.twitter.com/gxLKUthhpT
— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) October 26, 2024
Texas AFL-CIO:
Reminder: ALL workers – regardless of race, religion, or immigration status – deserve a living wage, the right to collectively bargain, and freedom from exploitation.
Don’t let billionaires like Trump and Elon Musk divide us. We are strongest when we stand together.
— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) October 28, 2024
Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:
An evergreen reminder from @IAM751’s Jon Holden:
“All workers deserve a defined-benefit pension. It is a righteous fight to try to win it back.”
🔥🔥🔥 https://t.co/mqV5Ll45bE
— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) October 24, 2024
Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
“Our union rights are definitely under attack, but not just union rights. All of our rights are under attack,” Freeman said. “We can’t let this man back in office.” https://t.co/7HFArljOEm
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) October 28, 2024
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 10/28/2024 - 10:29Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Musicians at Baltimore Chamber Orchestra Reach New Labor Agreement
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
After 15 months of negotiations, musicians at the Baltimore Chamber Orchestra (BCO) ratified of a new two-year collective bargaining agreement. The musicians are represented by the Musicians’ Association of Metropolitan Baltimore, American Federation of Musicians (AFM) Local 40-543. The new agreement has updated how the orchestra runs operations, including the creation of assistant principal positions within the orchestra’s string sections, more equitable practices to the orchestra’s audition policies, and standardizing the minimum number of players in each section of the orchestra.
“The BCO’s musicians are grateful for the collaborative spirit in which this contract was negotiated,” said BCO’s principal viola and member of the BCO Players’ Committee, Chiara Kingsley-Dieguez. “While there is still more work to be done, this agreement is an excellent first step toward our goal of ensuring fair and equitable treatment of our musicians. We believe our orchestra has a very bright future and we look forward to working together with BCO’s management and board in the years ahead to accomplish our shared goal of presenting concerts of the highest musical quality in an environment that is warm and welcoming to everyone in our community.”
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 10/28/2024 - 10:03Worker Wins: Our Workers Help Move America
Our latest roundup of worker wins includes numerous examples of working people organizing, bargaining and mobilizing for a better life.
IBEW Reaches Tentative Agreement with CSX, Norfolk Southern: The Electrical Workers (IBEW) announced that the union had reached a new five-year tentative agreement (TA) on Tuesday with rail-based freight transportation company CSX and Norfolk Southern, one of the country’s largest freight railroad operators. The TA covers approximately 4,000 workers and is subject to a ratification vote by membership. Highlights include an 18.77% compound wage increase over the lifetime of the deal, improvements to vacation benefits, and a new option for workers to carry over a certain amount of unused paid sick days. “This new agreement is a historic step forward for rail workers across the nation, and I’m proud of the efforts of IBEW railroad members in helping secure a fair deal,” said IBEW International President Kenneth Cooper. “Our workers help move America, and this agreement recognizes the value they bring to the rail industry.”
Austin Journalists to Vote on New Contract After 21-Hour Mediation with Gannett: After multiple years of bargaining and a final 21-hour marathon session, members of the Austin NewsGuild who work for the Austin American-Statesman in Texas have finally reached a TA with parent company Gannett. The unit is part of The NewsGuild-CWA and includes journalists and other newsroom staff who won their union election in February 2021. Members overcame Gannett’s union-busting and delay tactics and are now celebrating a major milestone in their organizing efforts. The deal includes improved minimum salaries, general wage increases, frozen health insurance premiums, job protections and more. “We are thrilled to be able to turn the page on this part of our Guild history,” said Nicole Villalpando, chair of the Austin NewsGuild. “Our members worked incredibly hard to make this happen. We went without raises, picketed, social media shamed the company, went on strike with 100% participation twice, and phone zapped the CEO to make this happen.”
Machinists Members Vote to Accept Latest Textron Aviation Contract Proposal: Members of Machinists (IAM) Local 774 voted to ratify a new five-year agreement on Sunday with Textron Aviation, successfully ending a monthlong strike. The agreement covers nearly 5,000 members across three campuses in Wichita, Kansas, and secures victories in major areas of concern for workers. Highlights of the deal include a 31% overall increase in wages throughout the lifetime of the contract, new insurance premium increase caps at 3%, longevity bonuses and much more. “Our skilled members in Wichita know what it takes to make Textron Aviation products just like they know how to stick together for what’s right,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “The dedication it takes to stand up with your Brothers and Sisters to fight for what you deserve is admirable, and the entire IAM is beyond proud of Local 774.” “Our members know what matters to them and used their voices as the essential tool to gain more,” said IAM Southern Territory General Vice President Craig Martin. “Textron Aviation is a powerhouse in today’s market and needed to offer more. I am proud of our members in Wichita—they stood strong and won for their families and communities.”
‘Drunk Shakespeare’ Cast and Crew Ratify First Contract: Actors’ Equity Association (Equity) and Brass Jar Productions have ratified the first union contract covering actors, stage managers, servers, bartenders and bar managers who are part of the popular show “Drunk Shakespeare” and its seasonal companion production “Drunk Dracula.” In “Drunk Shakespeare” performances, one of five actors has five shots of whiskey and then attempts to perform a major role in a Shakespearean play. The new agreement establishes important practices around workplace safety, job definitions, terms of employment and job security so performers and crew can continue to entertain audiences around the country. Drunk Shakespeare United members will now accrue health benefits, vacation and sick leave—with many workers seeing wage increases and better income stability. “Huzzah! Seeing Drunk Shakespeare United ratify their first union contract is thrilling!” said Equity President Brooke Shields. “The spirit of collaboration our members brought to the table was met in kind by their employer, and while the process wasn’t always easy, it was definitely worthwhile.”
Omni Hotel Workers in Boston Ratify Historic New Contract: UNITE HERE Local 26 members unanimously voted to ratify a new contract on Sunday after months of negotiations and about a week with nearly 700 workers on strike at Omni Hotels in Boston. Members who work at the Omni Boston Seaport and Omni Parker House hotels began an open-ended strike last week to secure fair wages, better benefits and improved job security. And now, hospitality workers are celebrating a historic deal that includes $10-an-hour wage increases over the lifetime of the contract and more. This victory comes as thousands of other UNITE HERE members continue fighting for the same goals across several major cities. “For me, the most important aspect of this new contract is that everyone will get meaningful raises,” said James “Smitty” Smith, a banquet server at the Omni Parker House, in a UNITE HERE press release. “I’m glad that Omni came to the table in good faith, and we finally reached an agreement. But we’re not done until we’re all done, in Boston and everywhere else.”
Montana Cannabis Workers Make History by Joining UFCW: Cannabis workers at two Honey Sour dispensaries in uptown and downtown Butte, Montana, late last month voted to join United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 1889. This election victory marks the first time Montana cannabis workers have successfully organized since the legalization of cannabis in the state three years ago. Staff initially reached out to the union with concerns about workplace safety issues—including mold and lack of running water—job security, customer well-being and more. Now members are looking forward to bargaining with Honey Sour to secure the fair working conditions that reflect their dedication and expertise. “I am incredibly proud to announce this historic achievement for us cannabis workers in Montana,” said Milo Vukovich, a Honey Sour dispensary worker. “Through today’s victory, we hope that we can pave the way for all cannabis workers in the state to receive the representation and benefits they deserve. This milestone shows just how powerful we are when we stand together, regardless of the industry.”
United Health Professionals of New Mexico Members Ratify Contract: Members of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) affiliate, United Health Professionals of New Mexico (UHPNM), ratified a contract Sunday with the University of New Mexico Sandoval Regional Medical Center (UNM SRMC). The union includes nurses and other health professionals who work at UNM SRMC and have been fighting for better working conditions and improved patient safety. Highlights of the agreement include wins like wage increases, job protections, the establishment of a labor-management committee that will look into safe staffing ratios and other ways to improve patient healing conditions, and more. “This contract represents basic respect for hospital professionals who work tirelessly for their patients,” said AFT President Randi Weingarten. “It shouldn’t have been so hard to get to this place, and the workers’ tenacity and the public’s support for their current or future caregivers moved the needle and resulted in this contract. We need hospitals to work collaboratively with their front-line workers and respect their input. When that happens, workers and patients are better off.”
Asheville, North Carolina, Nurses Reach New Contract Agreement: This week, National Nurses United (NNU)–represented registered nurses (RNs) at Mission Hospital in Asheville, North Carolina, voted to ratify a new three-year contract, winning measures to improve patient safety and nurse retention. This victory comes just over a month after RNs voted to authorize a strike against the HCA facility. Highlights of the new contract include substantial wage increases that will improve nurse recruitment and retention, a new program that will enhance staffing practices to ensure that nurses can take their meal and rest breaks during their shifts, new measures that will ensure nurses are “floated” (temporarily reassigned) to units similar to their normal specialty and more. “We are excited to have this new contract and ensure that our hospital is on a path to taking the best possible care of our patients and community,” said Huns Brown, an RN working in Mission Hospital’s pulmonary progressive care unit. “The devastation Hurricane Helene brought to our region underscores how Mission being the best possible version of itself is more important than ever.”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 10/25/2024 - 13:00A Huge Groundswell: 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.
J.D. Vance Is A ‘Scab’ For Crossing Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Picket Line: Union: “Vice presidential candidate Sen. J.D. Vance (Ohio) crossed a virtual picket line by publishing an opinion piece in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette on Thursday, according to the union whose workers are on strike at the newspaper. Jon Schleuss, president of the NewsGuild-CWA, told HuffPost that there was no excuse for Vance, the running mate of former President Donald Trump, not to be aware of the strike that just entered its third year.”
How Trump Could Bankrupt Social Security: “It’s important to be aware that one effect of Donald Trump’s economic proposals, if enacted, could be to drive Social Security into bankruptcy, impoverishing many older Americans—not in the distant future, but within around six years. And while I have in the past assumed that Social Security will be bailed out if necessary, that looks less certain in the antidemocratic nation we may become if Trump wins.”
Why Gender May Be the Defining Issue of the Election: “‘We’re all protecting our hearts right now, having been through this before,’ said Liz Shuler, the first woman elected to lead the AFL-CIO, the largest federation of unions in the country. ‘We’ve come further, even since 2020, with women leading in ways we’ve never seen before. To not be able to cross that ultimate threshold of the highest position of power in the world would be a sucker punch.’ Her union federation, one of the Democrats’ most powerful backers, is tracking a 32-point difference in support for Ms. Harris over Mr. Trump among its female members in internal surveys.”
Modern-Day Rosie the Riveters Are Backing Kamala Harris: “As Liz Shuler, the first woman president of the AFL-CIO, told The 19th, the strides women and people of color are making in the trades are at risk. ‘We’ve seen the patterns of the Trump administration,’ she said. ‘Even just the rhetoric of DEI hires being negative, when in fact, we’re making progress, and we’re starting to elevate the awareness and the commitment of these companies to hire more women.’ A lot of initiatives aimed at making the workplace more inclusive and welcoming to women are voluntary, and not mandated. ‘We don’t want to actually give [these companies] ammunition to start getting rid of these programs,’ she said.”
Trump is Anti-Worker. Here Are 10 of His Most Shocking Anti-Worker Statements: “Many people failed to realize that Donald Trump has a long, ugly history of making anti-worker and anti-union statements. He has at times insulted workers, saying their wages are too high, saying their work is so easy that a child can do it. The former U.S. president has also sought to sabotage labor by saying union members shouldn’t pay their dues and successful union leaders should be fired. Trump has also sought to trick workers by making wonderful-sounding promises that he couldn’t possibly make good on. Below are Trump’s 10 most shocking anti-worker and anti-union statements.”
Acting Labor Secretary Julie Su Criticizes Donald Trump’s Labor Record at IOP: “Acting U.S. Secretary of Labor Julie Su slammed former President Donald Trump for ‘faux populism” and hypocrisy on labor issues ahead of the 2024 presidential election at a Harvard Institute of Politics forum on Monday. Though Su declined to address the former president by name, she argued that ‘hypothetically,’ opposition to overtime pay, sexual harassment, and support for Elon Musk are incompatible with a ‘pro-worker’ position. ‘I don’t care how many McDonald’s drive-throughs you pretend to work at,’ Su said, referencing Trump’s Sunday visit to a Philadelphia McDonald’s where he served fries and answered questions through the drive-through window. Su was joined by Sara Nelson, the president of the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, AFL-CIO to discuss the future of the American Labor Movement. Brett Story and Stephen Maing, directors of ‘UNION’—a documentary film that followed the unionization of Amazon workers in Staten Island, New York—were also on the panel.”
Prominent Black Union Leaders Warn About Trump’s Project 2025 Platform: “Two prominent Black union leaders, Communications Workers President Claude Cummings and James Curbeam, chairman of the Teamsters Black Caucus, are warning African-American voters—and everyone else–about the threat of Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump, and specifically about his platform, Project 2025. Their cautions were part of a wide-ranging discussion of that tome, created by the radical right Heritage Foundation, an ideological think tank which hates workers, women, LGBT people and people of color, among others. A former Trump regime official led the project and others of his ilk, plus GOP President Ronald Reagan’s Attorney General, Edwin Meese, populated it with their recommendations.”
AFL-CIO Reports Huge Groundswell, Lead for Harris Among Unionists: “From constant contact with its large ground game of activists and canvassers, the AFL-CIO reports a huge groundswell and a large lead for Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris among unionists and their families. But unionists will keep pounding the pavements, making the phone calls, and distributing union literature about kitchen-table issues, federation President Liz Shuler said in an hour-and-a-half press conference on October 18, discussing election prospects and issues that move voters. That’s because, as Shuler said, unionists and their families make up a fifth of the electorate in the key swing states of Arizona, Pennsylvania, Nevada, Georgia, North Carolina, Michigan, and Wisconsin. ‘We have [Republican nominee Donald] Trump at around 19% and Harris at around 64% in our field numbers, with the rest undecided,’ Shuler said near the end of the discussion. ‘But we’re still talking to every member.”
AFSCME Members Rally to Warn Voters About Trump’s Anti-Worker Project 2025: “AFSCME members rallied here on Oct. 5 to sound the alarm on Project 2025, Donald Trump’s extremist plan to undermine critical public services and roll back the freedoms of working people and retirees. In front of a giant shredding truck, hundreds of members of AFSCME, the Arizona AFL-CIO and National Nurses United (NNU) joined local elected officials and others to detail how Trump’s Project 2025 would ‘shred’ Arizonans’ freedoms, crush unions, eliminate overtime protections, repeal the $35 cap on insulin for seniors, and end negotiations for lower prescription drug prices. Members tore apart signs that read, ‘Medicare,’ ‘Lower Prescription Drug Costs’ and ‘Freedom to Retire with Dignity’ to illustrate how Trump’s anti-worker agenda threatens the issues we care about most. ‘You’ve heard what Project 2025 is all about and make no mistake about it, they will do it if they are victorious in November,’ said AFSCME President Lee Saunders. ‘But the Labor Movement stands in their way. And we’re going to do what we do best…we communicate, we connect, and we educate and mobilize and organize!’”
‘Almost All Worker Protections You Can Think of Are Threatened’: Donald Trump’s Potential Second Presidency Could Catastrophically Doom Laborers’ Rights: “Attorney Brian Petruska warned The Huffington Post that a second Donald Trump presidency could deal a devastating blow to workers’ rights and labor protections in the United States: ‘The changes—not to engage in hyperbole—are potentially catastrophic. Almost all worker protections you can think of are threatened.’ ‘We’re looking at going back to pre-1930s labor law in this country,’ claimed Petruska, an attorney for the Laborers’ International Union of North America. ‘I’m not exaggerating. That’s literally what’s happening.’”
Omni Hotel Workers in Boston Vote to Ratify New Contract, Will Return to Work Monday: “After months of negotiations with Omni hotels and about a week of over 600 workers on strike in Boston, the union unanimously approved a tentative contract agreement Sunday to send those employees back to work Monday morning. The tentative agreement was reached late Friday night and ratified Sunday afternoon. The president of UNITE HERE Local 26 says it's a historic contract—the best they've ever had—and now they're celebrating.”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 10/25/2024 - 11:00
