Unacceptable: 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:
Last week we reaffirmed our support of the #AAPI community in the face of violence inspired by bigotry & hate. In light of last night's events, we reiterate that these crimes are UNACCEPTABLE. Perpetrators of racist violence cannot be tolerated or excused. https://t.co/5lR4wGP7V6 pic.twitter.com/ZX2V6O0nFE
— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) March 17, 2021AFGE:
All VA workers who have elected union representation deserve to have a voice in the workplace, REGARDLESS of their job title.
Support those who care for our veterans by calling your members of Congress and telling them to pass the VA Employee Fairness Act. #1u @VetAffairsDems pic.twitter.com/O6pjjJc1fr
AFSCME:
AFSCME condemns racism in any form without equivocation and in the strongest possible terms. The growing bigotry and violence targeted at Asian Americans and the AAPI community is unacceptable and must stop. #StopAAPIHate https://t.co/Drn9zXAgOu
— AFSCME (@AFSCME) March 17, 2021Alliance for Retired Americans:
Workers should have control over their working conditions, wages, etc.
Unions and the PRO Act provide that power.
You can send a message to your Senators and urge them to pass it. https://t.co/J87SxxKh4J
Amalgamated Transit Union:
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) March 16, 2021American Federation of Musicians:
Thanks are in order to Federation staff, officers, player conference officers and the AFM-EP Fund, who collectively organized an all-out lobbying effort to mobilize thousands of members and Fund participants to contact Capitol Hill over the past months. Our voices have been heard pic.twitter.com/ubqBIE7fVM
— AFM (@The_AFM) March 10, 2021American Federation of Teachers:
“I’m hoping that one of the things this federal money will be spent on is making sure that all of the programs that are in place continue, that there will be no cuts to education.” https://t.co/8yRLUAvkYX
— AFT (@AFTunion) March 17, 2021American Postal Workers Union:
"Postal workers have the highest average annual wage ($51,740) and the highest median hourly wage ($25.03) among the 10 occupations with the heaviest representation of Black workers." #APWUnited https://t.co/ALllJtf6jp
— APWU National (@APWUnational) March 15, 2021Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance:
Last night, 8 people were murdered at 3 spas in Georgia, many of whom were Asian and immigrant women that were targeted at their workplaces.
Read more on why we condemn misogyny and white supremacy for motivating these murders.
Full statement here: https://t.co/SIACs11tkV pic.twitter.com/1Gba8GtoGs
Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:
On March 16, 2020, AFA proposed what would become the Payroll Support Program.
A YEAR LATER: We’ve secured 16 months of #WorkersFirst relief.
We’re proud this program protected aviation workers through the worst of the crisis & set a different tone for recovery. #Essential #1u https://t.co/a5q5Gl843I
Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers:
“Enactment of the American Rescue Plan strengthens the economy, creates a brighter future for working families & allows #BCTGM retirees to rest assured that their pension benefits are secure.” - BCTGM Int'l Pres. Anthony Shelton. Read more ?? https://t.co/2S9tdgIGTu pic.twitter.com/AjHeTwVUjT
— BCTGM International (@BCTGM) March 11, 2021Boilermakers:
Thank you to all who participated in our virtual Day of Action yesterday calling on #CESSCO & #Canerector Inc. to end the lockout in Edmonton. ❤️ And thank you to everyone standing on the line with @146Lodge. Let's continue to show that we #StandWith146! ✊https://t.co/aFopuXzXuq
— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) March 17, 2021Bricklayers:
BAC Executive Council members today voted unanimously to unreservedly support the @amazon workers in #Bessemer, #Alabama fighting for their @BAmazonUnion! #1u #UnionStrong
— Bricklayers Union (@IUBAC) March 15, 2021Coalition of Black Trade Unionists:
Breaking News: pic.twitter.com/u4o8PYA588
— CBTU (@CBTU72) March 10, 2021Coalition of Labor Union Women:
Today, we honor and congratulate Deb Halaand. First Native American Cabinet Secretary in U.S. History. Also made U.S. History to serve as one of the 1st Native American woman to be serve in Congress. At CLUW, we are happy to see a new chapter in herstory. ??????? pic.twitter.com/pRIEEBn1iX
— CLUW National (@CLUWNational) March 16, 2021Communications Workers of America:
Breaking news!?✊ https://t.co/qpZ6NxyQQX
— CWA (@CWAUnion) March 17, 2021Department for Professional Employees:
We hosted a great program yesterday on bargaining for racial equity. We enjoyed hearing from staff and member-leaders from @WGAEast, @AFTunion/@ruaaup, @IFPTE/@NonprofitUnion, @AGMusicalArtist, and @OPEIU. Thank you to our panelists and everyone who attended! #1u pic.twitter.com/5tOEYRu4Jd
— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) March 17, 2021Electrical Workers:
Right-to-work isn't just bad for wages and benefits. It's bad for workplace safety. https://t.co/8gIzwWoDLT #SB61? #RTWIsWrong #UnionStrong
— IBEW (@IBEW) March 17, 2021Fire Fighters:
Grandson Vaccinates Grandmother He Hasn’t Seen Since Pandemic Began https://t.co/qVHMzImFpX
— IAFF (@IAFFNewsDesk) March 17, 2021Heat and Frost Insulators:
Becoming an insulator can offer someone many different career paths all starting with a registered apprenticeship. Learn about the different types of insulator trades and opportunities that come with each of them here: https://t.co/CIRF8Cr8RC
— Insulators Union ? (@InsulatorsUnion) March 17, 2021International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers:
We stand with @APALAnational in grieving those killed last night, and demanding an end to this anti-asian violence! #AsianLivesMatter https://t.co/kHipNXN7Es
— IFPTE (@IFPTE) March 17, 2021Ironworkers:
As we mark the one-year anniversary of the COVID-19 crisis, Construction Dive looks at five charts that capture the impacts of a tumultuous year in construction and what they portend for the months ahead. #COVID19https://t.co/BCKy4gvRYE
— Ironworkers. (@TheIronworkers) March 16, 2021IUE-CWA:
.@Walmart, @GeneralElectric, @GELighting: Stop dumping US Jobs! Keep jobs in our communities. Sign the petition: https://t.co/mFEzNNgS4t pic.twitter.com/ZEbsV9nt10
— IUE-CWA (@IUE_CWAUnion) March 12, 2021Jobs With Justice:
"When I returned to work after an injury, one of the men said, 'You back for more?' From that moment on, I decided to stick around just to piss him off"
Meet Adrienne Bennett, the first Black woman Master Plumber: https://t.co/vNo98OyJ6B#WomensHistoryMonth #WomenInConstruction pic.twitter.com/yhegoH5RKY
Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:
Transparency is the ?! If we’re going to achieve #equalpay in our lifetimes, employers need to be clear about how they decide salary and raises. Join the #EqualPayWeekofAction by raising awareness with us each day this week about how we can close the #wagegap. pic.twitter.com/hRWxxaWx0a
— LCLAA (@LCLAA) March 17, 2021Machinists:
Machinists understand that politics makes a difference. That’s why so many IAM members choose to run for local or state office - to represent working families. Congratulations to three of our IAM brothers giving workers a voice in South Florida. https://t.co/xGTtnYCVkG
— Machinists Union ✈️?? (@MachinistsUnion) March 17, 2021Metal Trades Department:
MTD Urges Congress to Assist in Reinstating Obama Era EOhttps://t.co/mlbTNfLHee pic.twitter.com/OrW9wq7BKl
— Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) March 17, 2021Mine Workers:
We are proud of our affiliation with Cabin Creek Health Systems. They are taking the necessary steps to ensure the safety of their community.
Source: Charleston Gazette-Mailhttps://t.co/3eqKqhLVt9
Musical Artists:
AGMA's Statement on Atlanta-Area Shootings. pic.twitter.com/ndDcwKGLM1
— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) March 17, 2021National Air Traffic Controllers Association:
NATCA President Paul Rinaldi spoke as part of the Federal Aviation Administration’s virtual Commercial Aviation Safety Town Hall on Feb. 23. https://t.co/jiZpmk8S61
Watch the Town Hall here: https://t.co/FxL015jQWJ pic.twitter.com/0U34ANRykT
National Association of Letter Carriers:
2019-2023 NALC-USPS National Agreement: https://t.co/A131HPJTJt
— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) March 15, 2021National Day Laborer Organizing Network:
News: This morning, Pres. Biden’s nominee for deputy secretary of Labor Dept- @JulieSuCA- testified b4 Senate.
If we are serious about protecting working people, job training, and bringing folks together, we need officials with a proven track record. #ConfirmJulie4DOL
National Domestic Workers Alliance:
On Tuesday, a gunman shot and killed eight people in the Metro-Atlanta area. Six of those people were Asian women.
We know enough to know this: This is anti-Asian violence. This is gendered-violence. This is anti-immigrant violence. This is white supremacy.
1/
National Nurses United:
As public health advocates, RNs know that #SafeStaffing is vital to protecting our communities.
The troubling findings in the latest NNU survey show that a year into the #Covid19 pandemic, nurses STILL face unsafe staffing levels in hospitals.
Read more: https://t.co/YN0p3VaOgL pic.twitter.com/nZVIXAQUi6
National Taxi Workers Alliance:
For today, our 9th day, we planned prayers for the 9 brothers we lost to suicide. The day feels even more heavy. Sending our solidarity to the loved ones of our Asian sisters killed in a on-the-job hate crime. We mourn and we organize. On too many days, we do both.
— NY Taxi Workers (@NYTWA) March 17, 2021NFL Players Association:
In the first year of the program, 13 players took advantage of participating in NFLPA Externships. Now? Over 300 players are finding their "And" (via @WFLA). https://t.co/2yi0EeHrYj
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) March 17, 2021North America's Building Trades Unions:
Check out this "Build Like a Girl” workshop held by the Eastern Iowa Girl Scouts!
“By catching them at a younger age, they can see that ????? ?? ? ????? ??? ???? ?? ??? ??????
and that it’s a viable option to consider.” ✊https://t.co/0d3e1f752p
Office and Professional Employees:
It's not difficult to see why nearly 2/3 of Americans support unions, or why a majority would vote #UnionYes if given the chance.
The #PROAct helps give working people that chance. #1uhttps://t.co/rB1Cvi0vad
Painters and Allied Trades:
134 years ago today, our union banded together around a shared sense of solidarity even when it seemed impossible.
We transformed not just our own lives, but the lives of our families and our communities too.
Come build the future with us - https://t.co/M42SmEdwrC pic.twitter.com/J0Wl3JquHn
Plasterers and Cement Masons:
“Many of the country’s roads, bridges, airports, dams, levees & water systems are...in poor to mediocre condition. And they're in need of a major federal investment to keep from getting worse and to withstand the harsh effects of a changing climate.” https://t.co/hX2GgANskp
— OPCMIA International (@opcmiaintl) March 15, 2021Professional Aviation Safety Specialists:
PASS stands with our union brothers & sisters @RWDSU and are hoping for a successful election! PASS-represented employees at the FAA want to know that the Amazon packages airplanes carry are prepared by union hands! #BAmazonUnion #1u #unionsolidarity https://t.co/IkLK2zEPok
— PASS (@PASSNational) March 17, 2021Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:
"We didn’t want them to think we got these cards and then abandoned them." For months, @RWDSU member-organizers have stood outside the gates of the #BAmazonUnion warehouse in Bessemer every single day. @jamieson tells the story: https://t.co/0Sb8Fil5HM
— RWDSU (@RWDSU) March 17, 2021Roofers and Waterproofers:
It's #WomenInConstructionWeek + we're highlighting women who are doing great things at the #Roofers Union + other trades. It hasn't always been easy, but these women pave the way for other women + girls to start their own fulfilling careers in bldg trades. https://t.co/Fx0U8MCA2s
— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) March 11, 2021SAG-AFTRA:
“They realized they had no control, and that was really frustrating...”
– SAG-AFTRA president, Gabrielle Carterishttps://t.co/3HxBFAdCw6
School Administrators:
Statement on Rescue Plan passage.https://t.co/4Hl0ucYSGk
— The School Leader (@AFSAUnion) March 10, 2021Solidarity Center:
“Taken for a Ride: Litigating the Digital Platform Model,” released by @ILAW_Network today, analyzes how companies such as @Deliveroo & @Uber deprive couriers & drivers of basic employment rights globally. @GeorgetownKILWP@GigWorkersRise @RuwanSubasinghehttps://t.co/kEU4fuKJsc
— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) March 17, 2021The NewsGuild-CWA:
Congratulations on taking a bold step to fight for your future and for the important work you do! Welcome to The NewsGuild! https://t.co/6iJtRN51aU
— NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) March 17, 2021Theatrical Stage Employees:
The American Rescue Plan delivered on our union's most urgent priorities for subsequent COVID-19 relief legislation.
Help is on the way, but it was only possible because we turned out in record numbers to elect pro-worker candidates in Nov. https://t.co/GX4NB5Ytxx
Transport Workers Union:
The TWU fought to make sure that funds in the #AmericanRescuePlan go directly to workers, not CEOs. This is why:
"Airlines, Amtrak, New York’s MTA cancel or delay thousands of layoffs after passage"https://t.co/CUAuonNmGd
Transportation Trades Department:
Aviation workers will continue to play a vital role in getting our economy back up and running once the COVID crisis is behind us. We applaud lawmakers and President Biden for investing in this critical workforce. https://t.co/TQUJc23PDg
— Transp. Trades Dept. (@TTDAFLCIO) March 17, 2021UAW:
Former UAW Vice President Richard Shoemaker passed away Friday, March 12 at the age of 81. Shoemaker served as UAW Vice President for three terms including an assignment overseeing the UAW General Motors Department.
Read more about his career and legacy: https://t.co/YpnacBmUcf
Union Label and Service Trades Department:
Labor watchdog backs calls for binding Covid-19 workplace safety standard, slams Trump's policy https://t.co/5z7vkbIFxs via @politico
— Union Label Dept. (@ULSTD_AFLCIO) March 8, 2021Union Veterans Council:
Standing with and thinking of the families of the victims of last night’s terrible violence in Atlanta.
Hate and violence should have no place in this country.
UNITE HERE:
If you're among the tens of millions of Americans who lost your employer-provided health insurance during the pandemic, this one's for you: 100% COBRA funding. That's right—fully subsidized health care thru Sept. This is what we meant when we said we'd take back our health. pic.twitter.com/orWFa0vwc5
— UNITE HERE #PROAct (@unitehere) March 17, 2021United Food and Commercial Workers:
NEW REPORT: #HazardPay passed in 10 cities/counties in Southern California, requiring grocery chains pay essential workers an extra $4 or $5/hr as #COVID hazards continue.
Thank you to all grocery workers helping feed our families during this crisis. #1u https://t.co/lVFfStsyfK
United Steelworkers:
@WendyCh555-If bill #SB61 is passed, New Hampshire will become the first “right to work” state in the northeast. Our families, ALL New Hampshirites will suffer! #RTWIsWrong #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/Qi9MqzXPuP
— United Steelworkers (@steelworkers) March 17, 2021United Students Against Sweatshops:
.@Columbia, we are calling BS and demand you stop making up excuses and start listening to @GWCUAW who have been on strike out in the snow! ✊ President Lee Bollinger makes $4.6 million/yr and is one of the highest paid university presidents in the country! https://t.co/6AsVVrLccM
— USAS (@USAS) March 16, 2021Utility Workers:
Working families need the PRO Act NOW. That's why we need YOUR voice. Record your personal video message today telling lawmakers why the #PROAct is important for your loved ones and coworkers. Don’t wait -- our families and our future depend on it! https://t.co/RzG5IvQwZl pic.twitter.com/I6mnLzwl0z
— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) March 11, 2021Working America:
In addition to getting working families the direct payments they need and deserve, the American Rescue Plan also injects much-needed funding into local govt. to bring back staff jobs and fund the essential services we all rely on. https://t.co/59Wsp261dy
— Working America (@WorkingAmerica) March 15, 2021Writers Guild of America, East:
The @WGAEast & @WGAWest call on @ABCNetwork @ITVStudios @WeAreITVA @ITV to make @thechaseabc a union show, or writers of #TheChase will be forced to go ON #STRIKE effective 9am EDT on March 18. #1u #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/8VYA2upHrR
— Writers Guild of America, East / #PROAct (@WGAEast) March 17, 2021 Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 03/17/2021 - 13:04Comic Book Answers: Why Do Workers Need a New ‘Bill of Rights’?
A comic book developed by the North Carolina State AFL-CIO aims to answer the question of why we need a new “Bill of Rights” in this country to turn the tide of economic and societal forces back in favor of working people during the current pandemic and beyond.
The ‘Bill of Rights’ We Need Now More Than EverAmerica’s labor movement continues to lead the response to the coronavirus pandemic and to fight for economic opportunity and social justice for all working people—including fighting for policies and principles that, had they been in place at the start of the current crisis, would have lessened the disruption to lives and livelihoods caused by COVID-19.
Back in 2017, at the national AFL-CIO convention in St. Louis, delegates passed Resolution 1: Workers’ Bill of Rights, which declares that all working people have the right to:
- A good job with fair wages;
- Quality health care;
- A safe job;
- Paid time off and flexible, predictable scheduling;
- Freedom from discrimination;
- To retire with dignity;
- Education;
- The freedom to join together; and
- A voice in democracy.
With public approval of unions today near a 50-year high and with COVID-19 having exposed and even worsened preexisting and persistent structural racial and economic inequalities in the United States, now is the time for the labor movement to champion these essential rights and freedoms.
Introducing ‘The Workers’ Bill of Rights: A Comic Exploration’In keeping with our commitment to promote the Workers’ Bill of Rights to a broad audience, we are thrilled to announce an exciting, new resource: The Workers’ Bill of Rights: A Comic Exploration, a comic book developed by the North Carolina State AFL-CIO.
The comic book, available in Spanish and English, both in print and online, comprises nine captivating and beautifully illustrated individual stories that explore the nine key components of the Workers’ Bill of Rights.
We must educate our members and the public on the need for a comprehensive bill of rights for all working people—Black, Brown and White; urban and rural—because we deserve better.
One job should be enough to make ends meet. Getting an education should not require mortgaging your future. No one should have to sacrifice their health or life to earn a paycheck.
Join us in this fight for better jobs and better lives for all working people!
Visit the comic book website to read The Workers’ Bill of Rights: A Comic Exploration.
Get involved by texting comic to 235246 to get your own digital copy of this publication or by emailing info@aflcionc.org to request a printed copy.
This post originally appeared at the North Carolina State AFL-CIO.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 03/17/2021 - 11:34Women's History Month Profiles: Jacquie Sweeney
This year, for Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Jacquie Sweeney.
Sweeney, a member of UMWA Local 717, is the embodiment of a woman taking charge in the workplace. When her employer of nine years, Remington Arms, went through bankruptcy, she rallied members of the local to come together and fight for what they deserve. For the past year and a half, Sweeney has served as recording secretary for Local 717.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 03/17/2021 - 09:30Tags: Women's History Month
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: Support Staff Keep Our Students Learning
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service + Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Schools are communities that include students, teachers, administrators, families and, of course, support staff who keep the schools running. In a video, the California School Employees Association (CSEA) celebrates the contributions of school support professionals who have stepped up to the plate during the pandemic. “We can connect—we can connect with these families. We can hear them when they express what they’re going through, and we can reach out and help them,” said Maria Castillo, a CSEA member and health clerk at a California middle school. “I believe that we make a difference and that’s what we’re here for, to make that difference.”
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 03/17/2021 - 08:27Tags: Community Service, COVID-19
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: Baltimore Teachers Union Secures 20,000 High Filtration Masks for City Schools Staff
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service + Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Diamonté Brown, president of the Baltimore Teachers Union (BTU), an affiliate of AFT, said that thanks to the leadership of member Laur Plawker, more than 20,000 high filtration masks will be donated to Baltimore City schools staff, as teachers and students continue to go back to teaching in person after a local mandate. When local restaurant owner Samantha Claassen heard Plawker was having anxieties over going back to school, Claassen reached out to other restaurant owners and together, with the help of local media, held an incredibly successful fundraiser on Feb. 23. Even after the fundraiser technically ended, donations continued to come in as word spread. BTU has begun distributing the masks to schools as teachers go back to school this week.
“While we were disappointed that the district rejected our proposal to supply N95 masks to staff working in person,” said Brown, “I am deeply heartened by the power of the community to step up and help keep our members safe.”
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 03/16/2021 - 08:30Tags: Community Service, COVID-19
Reinforcing Values and Solidarity Highlight AFL-CIO Executive Council Meeting
The AFL-CIO concluded its two-day Executive Council meeting, which centered on fighting for economic relief for working people as we navigate the coronavirus pandemic. In addition to voting unanimously to review archaic Senate rules and delay the AFL-CIO Convention, the council also passed statements mourning the passing of John Sweeney and honoring our retired leaders.
The following statements passed the council:
Senate Rules Cannot Be Used to Block a Workers First Agenda: The AFL-CIO calls on the Senate to work with the president and the House to enact a Workers First Agenda—investment, democracy, freedom and dignity in the workplace and justice in our economy. But if that proves to be impossible under the Senate’s current rules—we call for swift and necessary changes to those rules so that the will of the people of the United States expressed in the 2020 elections can be turned into the progress our country and our people desperately need.
NFLPA Demonstrates the Power of Collective Bargaining: We applaud the efforts of the NFL Players Association, its Executive Committee, including President JC Tretter and Executive Director DeMaurice Smith, former President Eric Winston, and all of the player leadership and staff not only for their work on behalf of their members, but for their support for unions across the country.
Protecting Workers from COVID-19: Strong, swift action by the Biden administration, including an immediate Executive Order on Protecting Worker Health and Safety, has already resulted in stronger federal guidelines. However, more robust actions are needed to ensure that workers are provided the protections necessary to combat this virus in U.S. workplaces, keeping our communities safe as well.
Unions Commit to Repatriate Our Deported Patriots: Repatriating our veterans and protecting their family members will be a core part of the labor movement’s comprehensive immigration strategy, and we will highlight the stories of these patriots to challenge the criminal narrative that has plagued the immigration debate for too long.
Build Back Better with Unions—Pass the PRO Act and Legislation to Ensure Public Sector Collective Bargaining Rights: We are in a historic moment with an unmistakable mandate. The PRO Act and legislation to ensure public sector workers full bargaining rights must become the law of the land at once.
Resolution Delaying AFL-CIO Convention Due to Pandemic: The next regular AFL-CIO Convention will take place before June 30, 2022, in Philadelphia, on days and during times designated by the AFL-CIO President, in consultation with the Executive Council.
On the Service of George E. McCubbin III: The AFL-CIO Executive Council recognizes the distinguished service of George E. McCubbin III, former national vice president for AFGE’s 12th District, which covers Arizona, California, Hawaii and Nevada.
On the Retirement of Bruce Smith: The AFL-CIO Executive Council congratulates Bruce R. Smith, our friend and brother, on his well-deserved recent retirement from the United Steelworkers (USW). Smith was the president of the Glass, Molders, Pottery, Plastics and Allied Workers International Union (GMP) until its merger with the United Steelworkers in 2016.
On the Retirement of Robert A. Scardelletti: We congratulate our brother and friend, Robert A. “Bob” Scardelletti, on his retirement as national president of TCU/IAM.
On the Passing of Larry Willis: The AFL-CIO Executive Council mourns the untimely passing of Larry Willis, a longtime champion of transportation workers and president of the Transportation Trades Department, AFL-CIO (TTD).
On the Passing of John Sweeney: The AFL-CIO Executive Council mourns the passing of John Sweeney, president emeritus of the AFL-CIO.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 03/15/2021 - 10:25Women's History Month Profiles: Anne Feeney
This year, for Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Anne Feeney.
Feeney, who died of COVID-19 in February, was a major player in the folk music circuit and the first woman to be president of a musician’s union. In her iconic music career, she performed more than 4,000 shows throughout the United States and Europe and collaborated regularly with artists like Pete Seeger, John Prine, and Peter, Paul and Mary. Her anthem "Have You Been to Jail for Justice" is sung on picket lines and in jail cells worldwide. She regularly performed at union halls, on picket lines and at rallies. She also graduated with a law degree and practiced law for more than a decade, primarily representing refugees and survivors of domestic violence.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 03/15/2021 - 09:30Tags: Women's History Month
Women's History Month Profiles: Samantha Lippert-Kendall
This year, for Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Samantha Lippert-Kendall.
After graduation from college, Lippert-Kendall found success in the building trades. She successfully completed the Registered Apprenticeship Program with the Heat and Frost Insulators (HFIU) and works as a mechanic. The member of Local 2 leads by example and has become a valued member of the union.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 03/15/2021 - 09:29Tags: Women's History Month
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: UNITE HERE Local 11 Celebrates Serving 3 Million Meals to the Community
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service + Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
On March 3, Hospitality Training Academy and UNITE HERE Local 11 hospitality workers (pictured above), in partnership with local Los Angeles hotels and event venues, celebrated an incredible milestone of 3 MILLION meals served through their "Serving Our Community" program.
The visionary program was launched during the pandemic to help bring meals, which have been a lifeline through the now yearlong pandemic, to approximately 10,000 homebound seniors, people experiencing homelessness and low-income families. By partnering with the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor and the city and county of Los Angeles, the program also provided more than 1,000 jobs to recently laid-off union and nonunion hospitality workers, including taxi drivers who serve as the delivery drivers.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 03/15/2021 - 08:36Tags: Community Service, COVID-19
Women's History Month Profiles: Leeann Foster
This year, for Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Leeann Foster.
Leeann Foster is the epitome of a Woman of Steel. She is a new international vice president for the United Steelworkers (USW), one of two women leading North America’s largest industrial union. She leads USW’s major bargaining in the paper sector, heads the Women of Steel Leadership Development Program and was integral in the 2005 merger with PACE and USW. Foster co-chairs the IndustriALL Global Union Federation Pulp and Paper Sector Working Group and is a commissioner in Mt. Lebanon, Pennsylvania.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 03/12/2021 - 09:30Tags: Women's History Month
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: Solidarity Center Launches Podcast
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service + Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
This week, the AFL-CIO's Solidarity Center launched its new podcast, which is an interview show that highlights and celebrates the individuals working for labor rights, the freedom to form unions and democracy across the globe. The show is hosted by Shawna Bader-Blau, who serves as executive director for the Solidarity Center. The Solidarity Center works in more than 60 countries helping working people overcome the challenges we face: poverty, wages, lack of legal protections, discrimination and abuse.
In the debut episode Bader-Blau is joined by Brenda Modise, a union activist with FEDUSA in South Africa, to mark International Women's Day. Modise talks about how union women around the world successfully pushed the International Labor Organization for adoption of Convention 190 to end gender-based violence and harassment (GBVH) at work and about how unions in South Africa are part of a wide feminist network campaigning to end GBVH there.
Learn more at The Solidarity Center Podcast, or find the show on Spotify, Apple, Stitcher or wherever you listen to podcasts.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 03/11/2021 - 15:34Tags: Podcast
20 Ways the American Rescue Plan Helps Working People
This week, Congress passed the American Rescue Plan Act, a $1.9 trillion bill to help fight the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. President Biden signed the law, which will provide significant assistance to the American people during this unprecedented crisis. Here are 20 ways the American Rescue Plan will help working people:
1. Funds public health: Provides $48.3 billion for testing, contact tracing and personal protective equipment (PPE); $7.5 billion for vaccine distribution; $5.2 billion for procurement of vaccines and supplies; and provides $10 billion to expand domestic production of PPE, vaccines and medical supplies under the Defense Production Act.
2. Increases workplace safety: Provides $200 million for pandemic-related worker protection activities at the Labor Department, half of which would go to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to support OSHA enforcement and worker training in high-risk sectors such as meat processing, health care, correctional facilities and agriculture.
3. Provides relief for state, local and tribal governments: Provides $350 billion in aid to state, local, tribal and territorial governments to help deal with the budgetary impact of the pandemic.
4. Reopens schools safely: Provides $125 billion in state grants to help local educational authorities reopen K-12 public schools safely, address instruction loss and support students as they recover from the effects of the pandemic. Provides $39.6 billion to colleges and universities and their students, at least half of which must be spent on emergency financial aid grants.
5. Makes direct payments: Provides $1,400 in direct payments to individuals making less than $75,000 and married couples making under $150,000, and for dependents claimed on federal tax returns.
6. Extends unemployment benefits: Extends pandemic-related unemployment assistance that was set to expire on March 14, including the current $300 supplement to unemployment benefits, for another six months through Sept. 6. Provides that the first $10,200 of unemployment benefits received by taxpayers making less than $150,000 will not be subject to federal taxation.
7. Provides relief for multiemployer pensions: Provides approximately $86 billion in financial assistance to struggling multiemployer pension plans, which the plans will not have to repay, to cover all benefits due through plan year 2051, with no cuts to accrued benefits.
8. Fully subsidizes COBRA: Subsidizes 100% of health care premiums of COBRA-eligible individuals who lose their job or had reduced hours, who will not have to pay any premiums, for six months. The employer or health plan can claim a refundable tax credit against their Medicare payroll tax liability for the cost of the premiums.
9. Provides payroll support to the airline and aerospace industries: Provides $15 billion for the wages and benefits of employees of airlines and contractors in the airline industry, on terms similar to airline payroll support in previous legislation: no layoffs or pay cuts through Sept. 30 or whenever the assistance is exhausted, whichever is later, and the continuation of current restrictions on stock buybacks, dividend payments and executive pay. Provides another $3 billion to create a payroll support program for aviation manufacturers.
10. Boosts transportation: Provides $30.4 billion for grants to transit agencies, which can be used for operating expenses, including payroll costs and PPE, and $1.7 billion for Amtrak in fiscal year 2021, including funding to recall furloughed workers and restore the frequency of long-distance routes.
11. Extends the Paycheck Protection Program: Extends eligibility for the PPP forgivable loan program to more tax-exempt groups, including 501(c)(5) labor organizations. Creates a new $28.6 billion grant program for restaurants.
12. Reduces child poverty: Expands the child tax credit through 2021, increasing the maximum credit to $3,600 for each child younger than 6 and $3,000 for other children, and making the credit fully refundable.
13. Expands tax credits for child and dependent care: Expands the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit to $4,000 per child or $8,000 for two or more children, and makes the credit fully refundable. Provides $39 billion for child care, including $15 billion in grants to states to help low-income families afford child care and help essential workers regardless of their income, and $24 billion for state grants to child care providers.
14. Funds emergency paid leave for federal workers: Provides $570 million to create an Emergency Federal Employee Leave Fund to provide up to 15 weeks of emergency paid leave for civilian employees and postal workers, including those who have COVID-19, who are caring for someone with COVID-19, are looking after children during virtual classes, or are obtaining a COVID-19 vaccine. Provides $13 million for an Emergency TSA Employee Leave Fund and $9 million for an Emergency FAA Employee Leave Fund.
15. Extends sick, family and medical leave tax credits: Extends current tax credits through September 2021 and expands eligibility to include state and local governments.
16. Extends the employee retention tax credit: Extends the current tax credit through Dec. 31, 2021, and increases the percentage of wages covered for severely distressed businesses.
17. Expands the earned income tax credit: Expands the earned income tax credit for taxpayers without children for 2021 by increasing both the credit percentage and phaseout thresholds.
18. Funds veteran retraining: Provides $386 million to create a rapid retraining program for veterans who are unemployed because of the pandemic.
19. Provides housing assistance: Provides $21.6 billion for emergency rental assistance to prevent evictions and $10 billion to help homeowners avoid foreclosure; $5 billion for emergency public housing vouchers; and $5 billion to address homelessness.
20. Extends nutrition assistance: Extends a 15% increase to monthly benefits under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program through Sept. 30, 2021.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 03/11/2021 - 11:56Women's History Month Profiles: Kate Hunt
This year, for Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Kate Hunt.
Kate Hunt began her maritime career as an able seaman (AB) working on ferries in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, in 1976. In 1980, she became the first female patrolman for the National Maritime Union, which later merged with the Seafarers (SIU). After the merger in 2001, she began working with SIU crews aboard military sealift command vessels, research vessels and other government-owned ships. In 2018, she was appointed to serve as vice president for SIU’s Government Services Division, a position she still holds.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 03/11/2021 - 09:30Tags: Women's History Month
Women's History Month Profiles: Dora Cervantes
This year, for Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Dora Cervantes.
Dora Cervantes made history with the Machinists (IAM) when she became the first woman to direct the international union’s finances. She is also the first Hispanic woman to serve as a general vice president for IAM. She has been a member of the union for more than 32 years after joining Local 2198 in Houston as a Southwest Airlines reservations agent in 1989. Fluent in English and Spanish, Cervantes helps teach the Spanish Leadership series at the IAM’s William W. Winpisinger Education Center.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 03/10/2021 - 09:34Tags: Women's History Month
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: Rockford United Labor Volunteers Answer Call for Vaccination Effort
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service + Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
A new COVID-19 vaccination site in Winnebago County, Illinois, has the capacity to vaccinate 2,500 people per day. But county officials organizing the program realized they needed help in setting up all those appointments. That’s when Winnebago County Board Chairman Joe Chiarelli put out a call for volunteers to Rockford United Labor President Sara Dorner (AFSCME), and she went to work finding groups to help out. “I reached out to the [American Association of University Women], League of Women Voters, NAACP and a lot of our partners in the community that we’ve worked with on other issues,” Dorner said. Those groups, along with The Salvation Army, Women’s March Rockford and Rockford Today Network, wasted little time signing up. “I’m watching the spots get filled up as I sit with my computer open,” Dorner said. Together, they logged 160 volunteer efforts, inoculating thousands of residents.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 03/10/2021 - 08:34Tags: COVID-19, Community Service
Asking for Basic Protection: 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 Twitter.
Alabama AFL-CIO:
Solidarity with #BAmazonUnion comes in from all across the country! #1U https://t.co/syXLd4ywwa
— Alabama AFL-CIO (@AlabamaAFLCIO) February 23, 2021Alaska AFL-CIO:
Workers should never have to choose between their safety and feeding their families.
We will continue to fight for safe work places and give working people a collective voice to address workplace injustices without the fear of retaliation. #akleg https://t.co/mtoPnEJkbL
California Labor Federation:
There is no one more qualified to join the @USDOL leadership team than @JulieSuCA. She's spent a lifetime in the trenches fighting for low-wage workers, immigrants and people of color. Her historic nomination must be approved https://t.co/9z151Y8CrX
— California Labor Federation (@CaliforniaLabor) March 8, 2021Colorado AFL-CIO:
Senator Bennet, thank you for supporting the Sanders amendment on a $15 dollar minimum wage. @SenatorBennet #FightFor15 #MinimumWage #RaiseTheWage pic.twitter.com/Q1XhDNYUZa
— Colorado AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOCO) March 5, 2021Connecticut AFL-CIO:
A woman's place is in her union! And a union contract is one of the best ways to promote pay equity. Women in unions earn 23% more than those without the protection of a union. #InternationalWomensDay pic.twitter.com/6IibSOBD9U
— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) March 8, 2021Florida AFL-CIO:
This morning, House Bill 947 and House Bill 835 passed the Florida House Government Operations Subcommittee on party-line votes. Stand up for frontline workers: tell your representative to vote NO on HB 947 and HB 835. https://t.co/xNdKy7CcwG pic.twitter.com/7MRhLi94RI
— Florida AFL-CIO (@FLAFLCIO) March 8, 2021Georgia State AFL-CIO:
Tonight, the US House is expected to vote on the PRO Act—a generational opportunity to transform our woefully outdated labor laws.
Thank you to @DPGChair, @RepHankJohnson, @repdavidscott, and @SanfordBishop for your continued support for this bill & Georgia's unions! pic.twitter.com/dqlVfwWu5l
Indiana State AFL-CIO:
We can always count on Tom Morello to bring us musical inspiration ✊? https://t.co/CvbCqB3Pbl
— Indiana AFL-CIO (@INAFLCIO) March 7, 2021Iowa Federation of Labor:
It was a busy funnel week up at the Capitol! Be sure to check out @HirdPete's summary, including the major bills we're tracking that are moving forward in the legislative process. pic.twitter.com/pGxTIysYG3
— Iowa AFL-CIO (@IowaAFLCIO) March 8, 2021Kansas State AFL-CIO:
Bad JANUS bill from KS Legislature set to have a hearing in RTW Kansas.https://t.co/kHR5WG45Jo
— Kansas AFL-CIO (@KansasAFLCIO) February 20, 2021Maine AFL-CIO:
Rest in Power, Professor Scontras. Your lifelong work to tell the history of our collective struggles has been a tremendous gift to all Maine workers.
It’s now up to us to build on your legacy & help future generations to understand & value this history. https://t.co/5ROizE8vnX
Maryland State and D.C. AFL-CIO:
Our tax code needs to work for workers. https://t.co/C87JGDhNbR
— Maryland State and DC AFL-CIO (@MDDCStateFed) March 4, 2021Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
“At my old job there was a union, and they would protect me.” -Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex #1u #Solidarity #UnionStrong
— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) March 8, 2021Michigan AFL-CIO:
"Loosening or eliminating restrictions right now would be the worst possible move": this morning in @BridgeMichigan, President @RonBieberMI provides some necessary context and pushback on the CEO campaign to force workers back into offices: https://t.co/TlwzPBBXcf
— Michigan AFL-CIO ? (@MIAFLCIO) March 9, 2021Minnesota AFL-CIO:
As Chauvin trial begins, Labor calls for justice & protecting free speech https://t.co/fHAy12PTWW #1u pic.twitter.com/uasApi3PkF
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) March 9, 2021Missouri AFL-CIO:
A proposed constitutional amendment to make Missouri a “Right-to-Work” state is being challenged by a lawsuit filed today in Cole County Circuit Court. https://t.co/cP3DbFqCnc
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) March 5, 2021Montana AFL-CIO:
Our statement regarding defeating "right-to-work" today! #mtleg #mtpol pic.twitter.com/6iSCB2h2pw
— Montana AFL-CIO (@MTaflcio) March 2, 2021Nebraska State AFL-CIO:
Meatpacking worker advocates ask senators for more virus protections. "We are just asking for basic protection and enforcement, if Companies are following these practices, there should be no opposition." NE State AFL-CIO Pres. https://t.co/rfcZQ2oV93 via @JournalStarNews
— NE State AFL-CIO (@NEAFLCIO) March 2, 2021New Hampshire AFL-CIO:
Montana got it done and said NO to "right to work." ?
New Hampshire, it's our turn.
All "right work" does is suppress wages, lower workplace safety standards and reduce the quality of public services.
It's time to call your rep and let them know: SB-61 is WRONG for NH. https://t.co/TKctEmVqvR
New Jersey State AFL-CIO:
— New Jersey AFL-CIO (@NJAFLCIO) March 1, 2021New York State AFL-CIO:
Prioritizing Worker Related COVID-19 Issues Remains our Focus https://t.co/g2H6MiITsy
— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) March 8, 2021North Carolina State AFL-CIO:
Frontline essential workers are now eligible to be vaccinated against COVID-19, and our vice president, Andre Barnett (@UFCWLocal1208) got his today. Be like Andre: Find your spot. Take your shot!
Learn more at https://t.co/5jDRDyxvXL. #1u @UFCW @ncdhhs pic.twitter.com/6maVa2YctY
North Dakota AFL-CIO:
"Right to Work" is a misleading term used by corporate special interests to push an agenda that undermines workers freedom to join together for a meaningful voice in their workplace. @SenKevinCramer is wrong to sponsor a national "Right to Work" bill. pic.twitter.com/Qc5ePE6IIM
— North Dakota AFL-CIO (@NDAFLCIO) March 3, 2021Ohio AFL-CIO:
On behalf of so many #Union retirees, we say #ThankYou to the fierce fighter for the #MiddleClass, @SenSherrodBrown https://t.co/Y3O7J67MTH
— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) March 8, 2021Oklahoma State AFL-CIO:
Happy International Women's Day!
We are dedicating this year to Fannie Webster!
Fannie was inducted into the OK AFL-CIO's Labor Hall of Fame, Nov. 20, 1991.
She was known as "The Number One Volunteer" and donated countless hours of service to the OK Labor Movement & OPEIU 330. pic.twitter.com/D8SCh4MB0M
Oregon AFL-CIO:
Thank you to everyone who showed up in Oregon City and Salem today to hold Congressman Kurt Schrader accountable and #PassThePROAct #ORpol #1u @ United States Government Schrader Kurt https://t.co/WeRTZDGPHo
— Oregon AFL-CIO / PASS THE PRO ACT (@OregonAFLCIO) March 8, 2021Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:
"The PRO Act isn't political or controversial. Our freedom to organize for a better shot at the American dream is a universal rallying cry that I am proud to support."
Thank you to @RepBrianFitz and to all of the PA Representatives who are co-sponsoring the #PROAct. pic.twitter.com/qSt7cC4A0E
Rhode Island AFL-CIO:
Overall, states that have increased minimum wages remain far more robust than the rest of the country https://t.co/3GoWPjtUzA via @bopinion #1u #FightFor15 #MinimumWage
— Rhode Island AFL-CIO (@riaflcio) March 2, 2021Tennessee AFL-CIO Labor Council:
Our statement on today's Senate passage of SJR 0002. Now, we turn our fight to the House, which will begin hearing this harmful resolution on Wednesday. #StopSJR0002 #TNLeg #1u pic.twitter.com/x2mViyXNet
— Tennessee AFL-CIO (@tnaflcio) March 8, 2021Texas AFL-CIO:
PRESS RELEASE: On #InternationalWomensDay TX AFL-CIO Elevates Women — On Our Building. In a vibrant display of public art, our HQ is featuring 13-foot-tall artistic renderings of two union women who have worked heroically through the COVID-19 pandemic.
https://t.co/lWB8qEhvbx pic.twitter.com/MwSalcbMQT
Virginia AFL-CIO:
Attorney General @MarkHerringVA creates Virginia’s first worker protection unit — read all about it: https://t.co/qkyFrrDPAF
— Virginia AFL-CIO (@Virginia_AFLCIO) March 4, 2021Washington State Labor Council:
An important step toward making our state's broken upside-down tax system more fair. Thank you to all the Washington State Senators who voted "yes." #1u #waleg https://t.co/WYv6zJn0LX
— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) March 7, 2021West Virginia AFL-CIO:
It's OK for stores, restaurants and bars, but not the people's Legislature??? https://t.co/TRjTHIfgfz
— West Virginia AFLCIO (@WestVirginiaAFL) March 6, 2021Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) March 8, 2021 Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 03/09/2021 - 10:17Women's History Month Profiles: Ethel Everett
This year, for Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Ethel Everett.
Ethel Everett has been an active leader with SEIU Local 509 for 30 years, serving as a union activist, steward and regional vice president for the local’s Department of Children and Families Chapter. She is vice president of the Massachusetts chapter of AFRAM, SEIU’s African American Caucus, and sits on the AFRAM Eastern Region Board. She also serves as a board member for the Western Massachusetts Area Labor Federation (WMALF) and co-chairs the WMALF Racial Justice Committee. She’s a committed union leader who always engages her members and is a strong advocate for social and economic justice in her union and community.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 03/09/2021 - 09:30Tags: Women's History Month
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: New Jersey State AFL-CIO: Operation Feed Atlantic City Continues to Give Back to Those in Need
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service + Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
New Jersey State AFL-CIO President Charles Wowkanech reports that union solidarity brought sunshine and much-appreciated meal kits to laid-off workers in Atlantic City through Operation Feed Atlantic City on Feb. 25.
The food distribution, sponsored by the New Jersey State AFL-CIO and its affiliated unions, the New Jersey Casino Reinvestment Development Agency and the Community FoodBank of New Jersey, was one in the labor movement’s continuing series of support programs for the Shore community that has been hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic. Volunteers from UNITE HERE, Operating Engineers (IUOE), Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE), NYSNA Shore Nurses and other affiliates dedicated their day to smoothly checking in the 2,000-plus recipients, directing traffic safely and loading the groceries and other goods into waiting trunks and hatchbacks.
“It’s been more than 11 months since the casinos and other entertainment venues were first shut down,” Wowkanech said. “Ever since then, we’ve been here to stand with our brothers and sisters and the whole Atlantic City community to help them keep food on their tables while we work to bring the city back to life.”
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 03/08/2021 - 15:45Tags: COVID-19, Community Service
‘Everyone in the Community Is Cheering Us On’: 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.
‘Everyone in the Community Is Cheering Us On’: "As lead organizer in the potentially historic effort to unionize 5,800 Amazon workers in Bessemer, Alabama, Josh Brewer heads a small army of organizers for the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union. Brewer recognizes that it’s a high-stakes campaign—it’s the first time a union has sought to unionize all the workers at an Amazon warehouse in the United States. Bessemer, a suburb of Birmingham, was once a thriving union community, with steel mills, coal mines, and a Pullman railcar factory. Brewer, 33, is an ordained minister who gravitated from the pulpit to union organizing because he saw it as a more effective way to lift struggling Americans. The National Labor Relations Board mailed out the unionization ballots on February 8; they are due on March 29, and only then will the ballots be counted. This interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.”
Right-to-Work Fails Muster: "Al Ekblad, executive secretary of the Montana AFL-CIO, said that in his three decades in and around the labor movement, it was the first time a major piece of right-to-work legislation had hit the House floor. 'It was a defining moment for the people that came to participate as citizen lobbyists,' Ekblad said. 'It’s going up for a vote, so there’s certainly a sense of apprehension until the vote takes place. Nobody’s foolish enough in this world to anticipate that the victory is guaranteed.'”
Nurses Condemn Gov. Abbott’s COVID-19 Decision Lifting Safety Measures Now as 'A Death Sentence': "National Nurses United today condemned the decision of Texas Gov. Greg Abbott to remove public safety measures needed to reduce infections, hospitalizations, and deaths amidst a still-virulent pandemic, a decision nurses warn will cost the lives of Texas residents. 'We are appalled that Gov. Abbott could take such an ill-advised step at a time when people are still dying, and the virus continues to spread throughout Texas, including in communities where our members live and work,' said NNU President Jean Ross, RN. 'For the highest public official in the state to tell people to ignore all precautions will only result in avoidable increased pain, suffering, and deaths. It is a shockingly irresponsible decision.' NNU concurs with the statement by Texas AFL-CIO President Rick Levy, said Ross, that Gov. Abbott’s decision to lift a statewide mask mandate 'would put lives of working people in jeopardy and directly lead to more deaths from #COVID19.'”
Amazon Workers Bombarded with 'Anti-Union Propaganda' Amid Historic Drive: Union President: "Despite the national spotlight, workers at the warehouse continue to endure grueling and unsafe working conditions as well as aggressive anti-union propaganda, said Stuart Appelbaum, president of the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union, which has organized the union drive. 'It's horrible for workers there,' he says. 'Workers are being bombarded with anti-union messages.' 'If you're sitting on a toilet in an Amazon bathroom, they have placed at eye level anti-union propaganda,' he adds.”
Amazon Workers’ Union Drive Reaches Far Beyond Alabama: "Players from the National Football League were among the first to voice their support. Then came Stacey Abrams, the Democratic star who helped turn Georgia blue in the 2020 election. The actor Danny Glover traveled to Bessemer, Ala., for a news conference last week, where he invoked the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s pro-union leanings in urging workers at Amazon’s warehouse there to organize. Tina Fey has weighed in, and so has Senator Bernie Sanders. Then on Sunday, President Biden issued a resounding declaration of solidarity with the workers now voting on whether to form a union at Amazon’s Bessemer warehouse, without mentioning the company by name. Posted to his official Twitter account, his video was one of the most forceful statements in support of unionizing by an American president in recent memory. 'Every worker should have a free and fair choice to join a union,' Biden said.”
After Stimulus, Biden to Tackle Another Politically Tricky Issue: Infrastructure: "Richard L. Trumka, the president of the AFL-CIO, who joined other labor leaders in a meeting in February to discuss infrastructure withBiden, said the president was uniquely positioned to understand the importance of the issue from the perspective of working Americans. 'He was born a blue-collar baby and he’s going to get buried a blue-collar baby,' Mr. Trumka said. A big, bold infrastructure bill, he said, was 'a racial justice bill, a Covid safety bill and the most important climate bill of all time, all in one.'”
Biden Expressed Solidarity with Alabama Workers Attempting to Unionize an Amazon Warehouse: "President Biden expressed solidarity with workers attempting to unionize an Amazon facility in Alabama in a video released Sunday that emphasized his broad support of the labor movement—without explicitly backing their cause or naming the company itself. Around 6,000 workers at an Amazon warehouse in Bessemer, a former steel town outside of Birmingham, are voting over the next week on whether they want to be represented by the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union.”
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 03/08/2021 - 15:17Women's History Month Profiles: Royetta Sanford
This year, for Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Royetta Sanford.
Royetta Sanford oversaw the first international women’s conference for the Electrical Workers (IBEW) in 1997. Since then, she convened a committee on women’s issues and launched a department within the IBEW International Office that focuses on women’s and civil rights. She then served as the first director of that department. Sanford recently retired from her position as director of human services for the IBEW.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 03/08/2021 - 09:38Tags: Women's History Month
