Service + Solidarity Spotlight: Labor Movement Fighting Anti-Asian Racism in All Forms
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.
Anti-Asian racism has skyrocketed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Working people condemn this vile behavior as a stain on our nation. We will continue to fight these injustices.
Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance National President Monica Thammarath (NEA) stated, “It is not right that Asian Americans are afraid to be alone in public, especially our elders who live in poverty and depend on access to community services, and our young people who live in places where there are few community spaces to turn to. We grieve for the elders who have been assaulted in Chinatowns across the nation. We grieve for Vicha Ratanapakdee, an 84-year-old Thai man who was attacked on one of his daily walks in San Francisco. We send our love to Noel Quintana, a 61-year-old Filipino American who was attacked on a Manhattan subway car, and to the 52-year-old Chinese American woman who was attacked outside of a Flushing bakery. We grieve for Christian Hall, a Chinese American teenager who was murdered by the Pennsylvania State Police. We grieve for Angelo Quinto, a 30-year-old Filipino American who was murdered by Antioch, California, police. Our communities are hurting, and we are more agitated than ever to create change.”
“The entire labor movement is appalled by the continued rise in anti-Asian racism across the country. Acts of physical violence, yelling of racial slurs and intimidation tactics used against our Asian American friends, family and communities must be called out and stopped,” said AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka (UMWA). “Anti-Asian rhetoric is only hurting our nation more during this pandemic, and we all must stand up and condemn in the strongest terms possible that racism in any form is unacceptable.”
“Racism in any form is wrong. Plain and simple. I have been so incensed to see the attacks on our Asian brothers and sisters that I could just scream,” said Clayola Brown (Workers United), AFL-CIO civil rights director and A. Philip Randolph Institute president. “For those of us of color who have endured systemic racism for 400 years, it is scary to see this unrelenting targeting and denigration happening to another group. The kind of ugliness we’ve seen happening to members of the Asian community as they simply go to the store or gather in a park to visit is disgusting and must be stopped. To watch elderly people come under attack and no one come to their aid shows we still have so much more work to do. Humanity must prevail. As Martin Luther King Jr. said, ‘The time is always right to do what is right.’ We must all take responsibility to make sure that no one is targeted, tormented or harassed because of their ethnicity. Until we learn that lesson, we all pay the price for racism.”
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 03/08/2021 - 08:38Tags: COVID-19, Community Service
Economy Gains 379,000 Jobs in February; Unemployment Down to 6.2%
The U.S. economy gained 379,000 jobs in February, and the unemployment rate fell to 6.2%, according to figures released Friday morning by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
In response to the February job numbers, AFL-CIO Chief Economist William Spriggs tweeted:
Most of February's job gain (moving right on the chart) came from leisure & hospitality, higher wage industries (moving up on the chart) posted milder job gains (professional services including temps, education and health, retail trade), or modest job losses. @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/QUfY0MvLlo
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) March 5, 2021State and local government employment declined in February. As in the Great Recession, state and local government employment is a big drag on a healthy recovery. It is vital the Senate pass @POTUS American Recovery Act now and get state and local governments the assurance to hire pic.twitter.com/2G7xCGLISh
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) March 5, 2021The share and the number of long term unemployed continue to climb. This makes clearing the labor market difficult and slow. Extended unemployment benefits will be necessary to keep these workers engaged even as the labor market improves. @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/yvfwXfjWjv
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) March 5, 2021The long-term unemployed ARE heterogenous, they are NOT just production and service workers. The longest unemployment spells are for managers and professionals and they are almost 1/4 the long-term unemployed. This is why solutions aren't easy. @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/LnF6ng6lwC
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) March 5, 2021From the flow data for February (from January), women were less likely to enter the labor force from not being in the labor force, but more likely to exit unemployment to find jobs. The unemployed were more likely to find jobs than to quit looking. @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/8SPVStIMMd
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) March 5, 2021The Black unemployment rose in February for all the wrong reasons, the share employed fell. Black women (over 20) rose from 8.5 to 8.9%. The unemployment rate for Black men (over 20) 10.2% is higher than the high school dropout unemployment rate of 10.1% @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/3UBIpQY35y
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) March 5, 2021245,000 of this months payroll gains (out of 379,000) went to women, but his doesn't show in the household survey (they are not similar surveys and do not necessarily cross-walk) for Black women, who reported a drop in employment. @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/diEYCp4NaJ
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) March 5, 2021Last month’s biggest job gains were in leisure and hospitality (+355,000), health care and social assistance (+46,000), retail trade (+41,000) and manufacturing (+21,000). The biggest losses were in construction (-61,000), local government education (-37,000), state government education (-32,000) and mining (-8,000). Employment changed little in other major industries, including wholesale trade, transportation and warehousing, information, financial activities and other services.
In February, the unemployment rate increased for Black Americans (9.9%). The unemployment rates for teenagers (13.9%) and Asians (5.1%) declined. The rates for Hispanics (8.5%), adult men (6.0%), adult women (5.9%) and White Americans (5.6%) showed little or no change.
The number of long-term unemployed workers (those jobless for 27 weeks or more) barely changed in February and accounted for 41.5% of the total unemployed.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 03/05/2021 - 12:55Women's History Month Profiles: Nicole Jeup
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 Nicole Jeup.
Nicole Jeup is an integral part of the United Association of Union Plumbers and Pipefitters’ (UA’s) Education and Training Department, specifically with the Veterans in Piping Program, which helps members of the military learn a trade and successfully transition into the workforce. Jeup is a true labor leader, uplifting everyone she works with and helping members of the military change their lives after completing their military service.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 03/05/2021 - 09:34Tags: Women's History Month
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: New Mexico Federation of Labor Paid Sick Leave Bill Advances to Senate Floor
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.
The New Mexico Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO celebrated the state House’s passage of H.B. 20, the Healthy Workplaces Act (paid sick leave), by a 36-33 vote. If this bill passes the Senate, it would make New Mexico the 11th state to have some form of statewide paid sick leave.
In preparation for the vote, the federation released a poll showing that 76% of New Mexicans support a legislative proposal requiring all employers in the state to provide their employees with up to eight days of earned sick days per year to care for themselves, their children or their parents.
Vince Alvarado (SMART), president of the New Mexico Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO, said, “The Legislature has debated potential earned sick leave policies for years. With the governor’s leadership, it is now time to pass this policy so parents no longer have to choose between losing a day’s worth of wages or sending sick kids to school.”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 03/05/2021 - 08:30Tags: COVID-19, Community Service
Women's History Month Profiles: Valerie King
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 Valerie King.
Valerie King is an organizer with the Utility Workers (UWUA) and chairs the union’s Women’s Caucus. She has elevated women’s voices within the union and helped grow their visibility as members across the organization in a few short years. She did this through expanding the size of the Women’s Caucus and through organizing several successful initiatives, including the Rosie the Riveter 5K run/walk.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 03/04/2021 - 09:30Tags: Women's History Month
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: Nebraska State AFL-CIO Pushes for Legislation to Increase COVID-19 Safety Measures
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.
The Nebraska State AFL-CIO, led by President/Secretary-Treasurer Susan Martin (AFSCME), is standing up for working people in the face of the pandemic. The state federation is throwing its support behind the efforts of State Sen. Tony Vargas to increase protections for the state’s meatpacking workers. More than 7,000 workers in processing plants across the state have contracted the virus, leading to 225 hospitalizations and 27 deaths. The majority of meatpacking workers in Nebraska are Latino and immigrants. Many are refugees. Vargas’ proposal was blocked during the closing days of the 2020 legislative session, but that hasn’t stopped working people from pushing for its passage again this year. There are more than 20,000 meatpacking workers in the state, Martin said. “We’re just asking for basic protection and enforcement. If companies are following these practices, there should be no opposition.”
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 03/04/2021 - 08:30Tags: COVID-19, Community Service
Women's History Month Profiles: Geoconda Argüello-Kline
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 Geoconda Argüello-Kline.
Geoconda Argüello-Kline was raised in Managua, Nicaragua, and came to the United States as a political refugee in 1979. In 1983, she moved to the Las Vegas Valley and worked as a guest room attendant at the Fitzgeralds Hotel, where a difficult contract fight spurred her desire to obtain better working conditions and protect her family. She became involved in the Culinary Workers Union-UNITE HERE Local 226 as a negotiating committee leader and a picket line captain. In 1990, she joined the union’s staff and since then has held many positions and worked tirelessly for the working people of Nevada and beyond. Under Argüello-Kline’s leadership, no other organization in Nevada has done more to support working families during the COVID-19 pandemic than the Culinary Union.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 03/03/2021 - 09:30Tags: Women's History Month
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: IUOE Local 49 Urges Investments in Minnesota’s Infrastructure
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.
With an anticipated $1.6 billion budget surplus, state lawmakers in Minnesota are debating how to spend these extra funds. Members of the Operating Engineers (IUOE) Local 49 are calling for the money to be invested in the state’s infrastructure. “An economic recovery, the likes of which we haven’t seen in some time, is at hand,” said Local 49 Business Manager Jason George. “Rebuilding our state’s infrastructure is the path forward that will lift all boats. This is something we hope both political parties will agree on.”
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 03/03/2021 - 08:30Tags: COVID-19, Community Service
Record Number of Women Lead Rockford United Labor
Rockford United Labor, a central labor council in Illinois that's affiliated with AFL-CIO, set a record for the most women to serve on the council's board in its 66-year history. Sara Dorner (AFSCME) made history as the first woman to hold the office of president for the council. Dorner just completed a term as vice president.
Joining Dorner on the Rockford United Labor board are Sandra Patlan (AFSCME) and Christina Magee (Rockford Education Association-NEA). In addition to Dorner being the union's first woman president, Patlan is the first Latina elected to a leadership position at Rockford United Labor.
Patlan is excited about the opportunities being in leadership opens up. She said: "Being part of this union is just like, it's a big door opening, not just for me but for others that can’t speak for themselves, whether it's in the workplace place or in the community."
Check back throughout the month as we will be highlighting other local leaders and activists as part of our Women's History Month activities.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 03/02/2021 - 10:56Tags: Women's History Month
Women's History Month Profiles: Denicia Montford Williams
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 Denicia Montford Williams
As a vice president of the North Carolina State AFL-CIO, associate director of the state’s chapter of the A. Philip Randolph Institute (APRI) and member of Pride At Work, Denicia Montford Williams (AFT) is a tireless advocate for LGBTQ rights and for racial justice in the state. She works as the program manager for the North Carolina APRI chapter. She also started a spinoff chapter of the Bayard Rustin LGBT Coalition. Montford Williams leads a voter-registration drive in nine North Carolina counties, advocates for worker-friendly laws, and hosts workshops related to financial and physical health. She seeks to include LGBTQ people more into advocacy work. She recently was elected to the state AFL-CIO's board of directors, becoming the first openly LGBTQ director in the board's history.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 03/02/2021 - 09:32Tags: Women's History Month
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: Western Region Solidarity: IUE-CWA Walmart Actions
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.
Members of the Communications Workers of America (CWA), state federations and central labor councils across the AFL-CIO Western Region held protests at Walmart in solidarity with more than 80 Ohio workers whose jobs producing Walmart’s “Made in America” light bulbs are being shipped to China.
While Walmart boasts a public commitment to supporting American manufacturing, the producer of its store-brand LED light bulbs, GE-Savant LLC, recently announced it intends to move the product line to China for production, permanently laying off more than 80 workers. The Walmart brand light bulbs are currently made by IUE-CWA workers in Bucyrus, Ohio, one of the only residential lighting plants left in the United States; nearly all other residential light bulbs are now produced in China.
In a show of increased public pressure for Walmart to stand up to its supplier and demand they keep manufacturing jobs for the retailer’s in-house “Made in America” LED light bulb line, we thank the Alaska AFL-CIO, Arizona AFL-CIO, Alameda Labor Council, Contra Costa Labor Council, Oregon AFL-CIO, South Bay AFL-CIO Labor Council and the Washington State Labor Council for their organized actions.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 03/02/2021 - 08:30Tags: Community Service, COVID-19
Women's History Month Profiles: Joelle Hall
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 Joelle Hall.
Recently elected as the president of the Alaska AFL-CIO, Joelle Hall (UFCW) is the first woman to hold the office since the state federation was chartered in 1943. She previously served as director of operations and has spent more than 20 years shaping Alaskan politics. She has a well-deserved reputation for bipartisan coalition building and the utmost dedication to the principles of the labor movement
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 03/01/2021 - 09:44Tags: Women's History Month
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: Labor Movement Mobilizes as Texas Recovers
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.
The unprecedented winter storms of recent days have left millions in Texas reeling with no electricity or running water. The energy capital of the world was suddenly shut down and the loss of basic services left dozens dead. But in difficult times, the labor movement always shows up. Throughout the state and the country, union members are mobilizing to respond.
AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka (UMWA) is closely monitoring the situation and has offered the help of the national federation. In California, the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor, under the leadership of President Ron Herrera (IBT), is working to deliver bottled water and food to the affected areas. Union Plus is working with the Texas AFL-CIO to provide members with hardship assistance. Roy Gillespie, the national disaster relief coordinator for the Teamsters (IBT), is coordinating the delivery of much-needed supplies into Texas from all around the country.
The state federation is actively seeking donations to the Texas Workers Relief Fund to continue to support its central labor councils in their recovery efforts. Please donate as you are able. We’ll continue to keep you updated on ways to help Texas as they begin rebuilding.
In the Lone Star State itself, workers are mobilizing to help those most affected by getting their communities up and running again. Members of the United Association of Union Plumbers and Pipefitters (UA) Local 68 in the Gulf Coast area have been sharing videos on Facebook with helpful information for residents. Union members in Austin led the delivery of thousands of pallets of water, with Austin Area AFL-CIO Council members and allies walking door to door and assessing water needs. They were joined by labor council President Jason Lopez (AFSCME). On Wednesday, the Texas AFL-CIO coordinated with the national AFL-CIO, IBT and various local unions and labor councils for a massive water delivery to Austin, Dallas and Fort Worth.
Workers in Texas are also demanding accountability. On Tuesday, Texas AFL-CIO President Rick Levy (TSEU/CWA, pictured above) issued a statement slamming the state’s leadership for its failure to prepare and respond. He said it was the latest in a long list of debacles:
“As with the pandemic, as with the distribution of vaccines, as with the reliance of the often-unreachable unemployment insurance system because of 1980's computer technology, as with a foster care system under federal court orders, years of knowing neglect by political leadership who rely on reactionary partisanship that shortchanges working people made us worse off. Once again, because too many politicians believed ‘free markets’ would prevail, failure ensued: The lights went out, the heat vanished, the taps had no water and the help we expect was stuck in triage mode.”
And through it all, the state federation is making sure its members’ voices are heard. The Texas AFL-CIO has also been collecting testimonials from union members. Krissy O’Brien (AFSCME) of Austin said, “This was a completely preventable disaster and our state leadership failed us. Gov. Abbott, what did you do to prevent this from happening?”
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 03/01/2021 - 09:30Tags: COVID-19, Community Service
Black History Month Profiles: Lafarrah Hines
This year, for Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Lafarrah Hines.
Lafarrah Hines is a member of Communications Workers of America (CWA) Local 3680 in Fayetteville, North Carolina, and a U.S. Army veteran. Hines was one of the first members of CWA’s Veterans for Social Change cohort to attend a training on organizing and activism hosted by the Veterans Organizing Institute and Common Defense, a progressive grassroots veterans organization. Ever since then Hines has become a powerhouse advocate for working-class military veterans and working people as a whole. Whether it’s meeting with representatives in Congress, speaking at press conferences, participating in town halls, or marching in rallies, Hines continues to organize and empower herself, other union members and her fellow veterans to promote the values they fought for.
Kenneth Quinnell Sun, 02/28/2021 - 07:09Black History Month Profiles: Fred Smith
This year, for Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Fred Smith.
Fred Smith is the vice president (AT&T Mobility) of CWA Local 3902 in Birmingham, Alabama. Smith is a longtime activist and leader both in the union and his community. He currently serves as the chair of the National Civil Rights and Equity Committee, leading the work to ensure workers are free from discrimination in the workplace and the union. Recently, in an effort to build a more inclusive union and labor movement, Smith has been leading trainings developed by the national CWA on “How to Build an Anti-Racist Union.” His advocacy doesn’t stop there. He also serves as the North Alabama Union Liaison for the Poor People’s Campaign fighting for socioeconomic justice for all.
Kenneth Quinnell Sat, 02/27/2021 - 07:54Tags: Black History Month
The Need for Labor Law Reform: 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.
The Amazon Workers’ Campaign Shows the Need for Labor Law Reform: "The organizing drive still underway by workers at Amazon’s fulfillment center in Bessemer, Ala., reveals some of the many ways our current labor law gives employers too much power to stand in the way of workers trying to gain a collective voice. Workers at Amazon want a union to bargain better pay, safety protections, and dignity on the job. Instead of respecting its workers’ choice, what has Amazon done? Amazon has forced workers to attend small group meetings where supervisors rail against the union."
House Passes Equality Act to Boost LGBTQ Protections: "The House voted 224-206 on Thursday to pass the Equality Act, which would expand federal protections for LGBTQ people by prohibiting discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation. Why it matters: The legislation passed in the House in May 2019 but never reached the Republican-controlled Senate under former President Trump. Democratic leaders believe there is a chance to pass the act into law this year with a 50-50 split in the Senate, but it is uncertain whether enough Republicans will support the bill for it to move forward."
Amazon Workers’ Fight to Unionize Draws Help from Around the World: "Roughly a hundred organizers have been calling workers from Amazon’s Bessemer, Alabama, warehouse in recent weeks, making the case for why they should unionize. The robust phone-banking operation reflects the high stakes for organized labor as workers at the facility consider forming the first Amazon union in the U.S. The organizing effort extends well beyond the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU), which would represent the facility’s employees. The phone campaign includes around 20 organizers on loan from the AFL-CIO, the influential labor federation that includes 55 unions. A dozen nurses who recently unionized their hospital in North Carolina also have been pitching on the effort, calling workers to tell them large-scale labor victories are possible in the South."
Multimillion-Dollar ‘Union Avoidance’ Industry Faces New Scrutiny: "Workers unionizing with the Retail, [Wholesale and Department Store Union] at an Amazon distribution center in Bessemer, Alabama, have been met with a range of tactics to dissuade them from voting for a union, including frequent text messages, paid social media advertisements, and 'classes' intended to warn them against unionization."
Four Million Hotel, Restaurant Workers Have Lost Jobs. Here’s How They’re Reinventing Themselves: "Workers at America’s hotels, restaurants, bars and convention centers have been among the hardest hit during the Covid-19 pandemic. Lockdowns and the lack of travel have caused many gathering places to close or reduce their staff. Since February 2020, the leisure-and-hospitality sector has shed nearly four million people, or roughly a quarter of its workforce. As of January 2021, 15.9% of the industry’s workers remained unemployed; more than any other industry, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. As a result, millions of hospitality workers—a group that includes everyone from front-desk clerks to travel managers—are trying to launch new careers. Some have transitioned to roles that tap skills honed over years of public-facing work in high-pressure environments. Others have seized the moment to remake themselves for different occupations. Many remain conflicted about leaving an industry they say continually provides new experiences and engenders lasting relationships."
Trumka Talks Importance of Infrastructure Investment: "AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka joined Bloomberg Radio to discuss how important it is to rebuild our infrastructure with good union paying jobs and how that will benefit our communities."
2.5 Million Women Left the Work Force During the Pandemic. Harris Sees a ‘National Emergency.’: "Vice President Kamala Harris said on Thursday that the 2.5 million women who have left the work force since the beginning of the pandemic constituted a 'national emergency' that could be addressed by the Biden administration’s coronavirus relief plan."
Infrastructure Is Prime Topic in Biden Meeting with Union Leaders: "AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka said in a post-meeting statement, 'For working people, this was the most productive Oval Office meeting in years.' Trumka added, 'As we made clear today, America can only build back better if unions are doing the building.'"
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 02/26/2021 - 17:39Pass the American Rescue Plan: 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:
Actors' Equity has announced terms for the use of archive recordings and remote work, effective through December 31, 2021. Learn more in the member portal - https://t.co/MUB60Meckj pic.twitter.com/mTyDIVzIs9
— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) February 24, 2021AFGE:
Our statement on @POTUS revocation of Trump memo that gave DoD Secretary authority to eliminate collective bargaining rights for DoD workers⬇️#1u pic.twitter.com/wqHo5DGaQl
— AFGE (@AFGENational) February 25, 2021AFSCME:
Tomorrow: Feb. 25th, 8 p.m ET tune in for an informative conversation about #COVID19, the vaccine and ways to stay safe during this pandemic w/ the @NAACP and today’s leading experts. https://t.co/1kXXP3IKsZ
— AFSCME (@AFSCME) February 24, 2021Alliance for Retired Americans:
It's time for President Biden to fill the vacancies on the Postal BOG and #SaveThePostOffice. Sign our petition if you agree: https://t.co/ztZ8BCIvN9 pic.twitter.com/D4xrLnRwlq
— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) February 24, 2021Amalgamated Transit Union:
ATU International supports ATU Canada’s call for all Premiers and provincial health and transportation ministers to recognize aerosol transmission of #COVID19 as a public health risk for transit workers, riders, and the public. #TogetherWeFightTogetherWeWin #Labour pic.twitter.com/6N8xeLXc77
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) February 25, 2021American Federation of Musicians:
Tell your elected members of Congress to support the Reconciliation Package. This link will automatically connect you to your senators: https://t.co/KrV8Xh7HuK...& @Local_802_AFM @local4afm @AFMLocal47 @ICSOM @ChiTheatreMusic @ROPAorchestras @TheaterMusician pic.twitter.com/qWRhUGxcMO
— AFM (@The_AFM) February 25, 2021American Federation of Teachers:
President Biden’s stimulus plan is supported by Democrats, Independents, and Republicans all over the country because voters know it's what our schools and communities need. We need our Senators to put politics aside and come together to help us get through this pandemic together pic.twitter.com/r9O5uKWBD5
— AFT (@AFTunion) February 24, 2021American Postal Workers Union:
And we've started: @RepMaloney introduces the hearing: Legislative Proposals to Put the Postal Service on Sustainable Financial Footing #SaveThePostOffice https://t.co/0FG2WwpjU4
— APWU National (@APWUnational) February 24, 2021Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance:
With over 20 chapters across the nation and at-large members in regions without chapters, APALA is a great community to join if you are looking to build a movement of AAPI workers.
Check out our work and become a member today: https://t.co/je1A49vpAi pic.twitter.com/PW3W5SzOo4
Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:
Good morning. Trans rights are human rights. https://t.co/qxKo4cudqu
— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) February 25, 2021Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers:
Working people fought to elect pro-worker lawmakers to the Senate, House & White House who would make the #PROAct a top priority. The BCTGM intends to hold them to their promises!
Call Congress NOW! 866-833-1560 Tell them to PASS THE PRO ACT! ?? https://t.co/HL9LRmVCPn pic.twitter.com/VcD9SuC6wV
Boilermakers:
L?k out for the monthly issue of the IBB Update that hits inboxes Friday! Not subscribed? Sign-up for #BoilermakersUnion news updates at: https://t.co/6rInXnDk2V pic.twitter.com/jon3VW1kX5
— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) February 24, 2021Bricklayers:
We recognize Tuckpoint Apprentice Takeesha Wash who restores and improves upon our nations’ built history every day at work. IUBAC celebrates black history and continues the fight for justice and equality for all. #BlackHistoryMonth pic.twitter.com/0nXjPlDfTt
— Bricklayers Union (@IUBAC) February 24, 2021Coalition of Black Trade Unionists:
— CBTU (@CBTU72) February 23, 2021Coalition of Labor Union Women:
Want to visit the Military Women's Memorial, the only historical repository that strives to document every woman's service?
Free tickets to attend the memorial in the nation's capital here: https://t.co/TYZiNEFO8H
Virtual tour of the memorial here: https://t.co/DLc12aJU9k pic.twitter.com/vcLeKxbJbO
Communications Workers of America:
We stand with Filipino workers and will do everything within our power to fight back against Duterte's violent attacks on union activists and the free press. We must work tirelessly to pass the Philippine Human Rights Act (PHRA). https://t.co/71VWDcOan6
— CWA (@CWAUnion) February 24, 2021Department for Professional Employees:
Creative professionals need the American Rescue Plan Act because it extends COVID-19 related unemployment programs, provides COBRA subsidies, protects pensions, authorizes emergency federal arts funding, and extends PPP support to digital news professionals. #1u pic.twitter.com/FF5yjgTZXy
— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) February 25, 2021Electrical Workers:
Congratulations to Chicago #IBEW Local 1220 member Don Cornelli on his induction into the Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame. pic.twitter.com/cj2P1o3KlS
— IBEW (@IBEW) February 25, 2021Fire Fighters:
Grand Island, NE Local 647 helping with vaccination process https://t.co/Hn9AiNH5na
— IAFF (@IAFFNewsDesk) February 25, 2021Heat and Frost Insulators:
When disease control matters, in medical facilities for doctors, nurses, visitors & patients, insulation matters. https://t.co/poXrkoAd0r
— Insulators Union ? (@InsulatorsUnion) February 25, 2021International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers:
IFPTE Responds to Nomination of Kiran Ahuja for OPM Director https://t.co/nffN6aJbiy
— IFPTE (@IFPTE) February 25, 2021Ironworkers:
Iron Workers Local 808 volunteered to build a steel canopy over the basketball court at Redemption Church in Christmas, FL. #communityservice #volunteerism #volunteerhttps://t.co/j0uU8HWcG0
— Ironworkers. (@TheIronworkers) February 24, 2021IUE-CWA:
Thank you for the solidarity! https://t.co/MktRxZY35o
— IUE-CWA (@IUE_CWAUnion) February 21, 2021Jobs With Justice:
? BREAKING ?
After a year of daily exposure to #COVID19, Essential Workers are being left behind in the vaccine rollout ?
TODAY -- #AlwaysEssential workers are DEMANDING priority access to the vaccine ?
Bc they are DONE risking their lives just to do their job ?? 1/ pic.twitter.com/eLRO4O4qV9
Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:
Data from @FWDus shows undocumented immigrants represent a substantial and critical part of America’s essential #COVID19 workforce combating the coronavirus pandemic and helping protect our communities. pic.twitter.com/cErGsIkFQL
— LCLAA (@LCLAA) February 24, 2021Laborers:
Yesterday @POTUS and @VP Harris reaffirmed their commitment to expanding registered #apprenticeships by rescinding the previous Administration's order supporting #IRAPs and ordered the @USDOL to act on new rules to reverse these harmful, anti-worker, union-busting programs. pic.twitter.com/kcT57KINcc
— LIUNA (@LIUNA) February 18, 2021Machinists:
Congratulations to Machinist members at IAM Local 235 https://t.co/Yg193XJDjQ
— Machinists Union ✈️?? (@MachinistsUnion) February 25, 2021Metal Trades Department:
On the 25th of #Blackhistorymonth we honor E.D. Nixon who worked as a Pullman porter and activist in the NAACP and Voters League. In December of 1955, Rosa Parks was arrested for refusing to give up her seat, he aided in her bail and the forming of the Montgomery bus boycott. pic.twitter.com/qu4XBaSV2q
— Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) February 25, 2021Mine Workers:
"The time for negotiating a contract at the RemArms plant in Ilion through the media needs to end." - UMWA President Cecil E. Robertshttps://t.co/ezVkRa0YEX
— United Mine Workers (@MineWorkers) February 24, 2021Musical Artists:
Today, we enter our third week of bargaining with the Met. Read our full message here: https://t.co/RbUp2maYnl pic.twitter.com/kUmUzMKJcg
— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) February 22, 2021National Air Traffic Controllers Association:
Feb. 21-27 is Engineers Week, a celebration of people in engineering professions—and a chance for our Union to recognize those we have as part of our #NATCAfamily. Today meet NATCA member Anthony Barksdale, electrical engineer. #Eweek21https://t.co/J9raLd1ML7
— NATCA (@NATCA) February 25, 2021National Association of Letter Carriers:
The NALC Veterans Group provides veteran members a way to connect and stay informed on important issues for letter carriers who are service members. Interested in joining? Visit https://t.co/4iA6it6giz. #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/X8NeYnmHte
— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) February 25, 2021National Day Laborer Organizing Network:
Precisely bc we are facing unprecedented overlapping emergencies, Pres. Biden cannot wait for a broken Congress to reform itself b4 taking sensible steps to reverse the damage caused in recent years. #DALE #TrabajoSiMigraNO #EndSCOMM #MigrantJusticePlatform #AllLaborIsEssential pic.twitter.com/cPaJhmMA2p
— NDLON (@NDLON) February 18, 2021National Domestic Workers Alliance:
Essential Workers NEED protection from #COVID19.
They NEED access to the vaccine NOW.
Tell @POTUS ?? https://t.co/JWQy9mUYzx
#AlwaysEssential pic.twitter.com/zKbyBgHXNd
National Federation of Federal Employees:
“The Union welcomes the Biden Administration’s order reestablishing union offices at VA facilities,” said NFFE VA Council President, Jeff Shapiro. "This change will provide for better labor relations, which promotes better care for veterans.” https://t.co/3b5usfc0bA
— NFFE (@NFFE_Union) February 23, 2021National Nurses United:
Nine months before Rosa Parks' historic defiance of segregation, Claudette Colvin — a young, smart, working-class, dark-skinned, Black woman — refused to stand for white supremacy on a Montgomery bus.
NNU honors this courageous #HealthCareWorker.
A #BlackHistoryMonth thread 1/9 pic.twitter.com/Rn4SVN27cW
National Taxi Workers Alliance:
"We didn't give up and we were consistent - no matter what we went through emotionally or physically or financially, we stood our ground." Bravo @Yaseenaslam381 and @jamesfarrar . Go @adcu https://t.co/Cq7VA5ajUh
— NY Taxi Workers (@NYTWA) February 19, 2021NFL Players Association:
24 hours before he was set to distribute goody bags at his drive-in charity event, @horribleharry99 had to pivot when COVID rules changed overnight. The good news? He was still able to put smiles on a lot of kids' faces. #AthleteAnd pic.twitter.com/YOGDOoEoYf
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) February 25, 2021North America's Building Trades Unions:
Shoutout to these #BuildingTrades members volunteering their time to help renovate @AGSM_National’s headquarters ?? https://t.co/ubqHxFDd2c
— The Building Trades (@NABTU) February 25, 2021Office and Professional Employees:
The #PROAct is one of the most important civil rights and economic stimulus bills in modern history.
With this one bill, we can begin to level the playing field, fight economic inequality by raising wages, and stop employers from terrorizing employees who want a union. #1u https://t.co/wALU0jAyHS
Painters and Allied Trades:
Our union is proud to announce today we're joining the Board of @BGAlliance.
We stand ready to retrofit schools, hospitals and buildings, to coat, paint, glaze and so much more.
Good-paying union jobs w/ high-quality benefits must be central to tackling the climate crisis.
Plasterers and Cement Masons:
The #OPCMIA is proud to assist our brother, Nick Scholz, and the Shrine of St. Jude Catholic Church’s St. Stephen’s Food Pantry by providing 20,000 grocery bags and baby diapers so that they may help parishioners and neighbors in need. https://t.co/J6JL5AL2XU pic.twitter.com/4HXvqSHW3F
— OPCMIA International (@opcmiaintl) February 19, 2021Professional Aviation Safety Specialists:
Thank you @SecretaryPete for your time yesterday. PASS is looking forward to working with you on behalf of the 11,000 employees we represent at the FAA, protecting the largest, safest and most complex air traffic control system in the world. #aviationsafety #publicservice https://t.co/WXzVOTrDkh
— PASS (@PASSNational) February 18, 2021Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:
“You can hear the courage it takes to even tell their stories. To even announce their story. It doesn’t weaken them. It strengthens them." @mrdannyglover, like folks across the country, stands with #BAmazonUnion workers organizing for a collective voice!https://t.co/7MDECWZngV
— RWDSU (@RWDSU) February 25, 2021SAG-AFTRA:
The careers of session singers span far beyond the recording booth. Get insight into the profession of these vocalists in our latest podcast episode with guests @janicependarvis and Carlos Ricketts Jr. https://t.co/7LFrHaYGHA #sagaftramembers #BlackHistoryMonth pic.twitter.com/wLY5TCFiMS
— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) February 24, 2021School Administrators:
School leaders, the people responsible to reopen schools have been using these protocols outlined by @CDCDirector since July. We know what it takes to open schools, communities need to understand what resources are needed to make it work. @laurameckler @fran_chambers @emilyakopp
— The School Leader (@AFSAUnion) February 12, 2021Seafarers:
We are proud to participate in this program #1u
TOTE to deliver 30,000 books to 40 villages https://t.co/Fo8I07jotc
Solidarity Center:
A large majority of #gigeconomy workers, like drivers & shoppers, say the work is their main source of income, per new @ilo report on the digital economy. https://t.co/WEuAIHblvr
— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) February 25, 2021The NewsGuild-CWA:
Great news! Welcome -- officially -- to the NewsGuild @CWAUnion family! https://t.co/cyec0fJyHK
— NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) February 24, 2021Theatrical Stage Employees:
All too often, bosses say they can't afford to pay a living wage while simultaneously giving millions to union-busting consultants. The PRO Act would increase transparency by forcing management to disclose payments to so-called "union avoidance firms". https://t.co/qJuk9vb25t
— IATSE (@IATSE) February 25, 2021Transport Workers Union:
We will never allow you to steal wages from our members. Frontline TWU workers have already paid a COVID-19 blood price and we're damn sure gonna deliver every dollar owed to our members. We've been battling bosses and winning since 1934 and the fight is coming to you yet again. https://t.co/NhiBLeHDQp
— TWU (@transportworker) February 18, 2021Transportation Trades Department:
Yesterday, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals overturned actions by the Trump administration to preempt states from setting their own laws and regulations mandating freight train crew size. https://t.co/uo3vH5X7Dq
— Transp. Trades Dept. (@TTDAFLCIO) February 25, 2021UAW:
Heather McGhee joined union members across the country for a discussion of her new book, The Sum of Us, and to talk about the cost of racism for American workers and our communities. https://t.co/ENMVcXg32F
— UAW (@UAW) February 25, 2021Union Veterans Council:
Your daily reminder that 31% of working veterans make less than $15/hr. It’s time to #RaiseTheWage https://t.co/RFyyBRKpQL
— Union Veterans Council (@unionveterans) February 24, 2021UNITE HERE:
UNITE HERE supports President @JoeBiden's $1.9 Trillion Rescue Plan that includes 100% funded coverage for COBRA. Our members are living on a few hundred dollars per week unemployment. Anything less than 100% would sink thousands of laid off hospitality workers. We need this NOW. pic.twitter.com/BsqYpIRShl
— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) February 23, 2021United Food and Commercial Workers:
#EssentialWorkers are putting their physical and mental health on the line every day to keep our communities healthy and our economy running.
#HazardPay for all essential workers is crucial. Employers must step up and protect our essential frontline workers:
United Steelworkers:
Danny Glover: Why I’m in Alabama with Amazon Workers - via @inequalityorg https://t.co/2fmclK9RIi #1u
— United Steelworkers (@steelworkers) February 24, 2021United Students Against Sweatshops:
https://t.co/CSJgYZJbPE
Watch this TikTok and find out a few amazing reasons why you wanna register for our Virtual Convention! —> Register here: https://t.co/fkR1wai2Qb
Utility Workers:
We’re celebrating #BlackHistoryMonth by highlighting the work of our members towards equality and racial justice in the workplace! https://t.co/ac17O6a7SQ pic.twitter.com/9cRT0QFRvi
— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) February 25, 2021Working America:
The pandemic has shown that working people's ability to earn a decent living for their families in a secure job is increasingly precarious. We need the freedom to organize, a voice on the job and the power to get the wages and benefits we deserve. We need the PRO Act! #1u pic.twitter.com/KkJPxDIoz3
— Working America (@WorkingAmerica) February 22, 2021Writers Guild of America, East:
We are thrilled to announce the Host and Creative Team behind the joint, virtual 2021 Writers Guild Awards!
Read the announcement here: https://t.co/pxlPa38wRW https://t.co/xDmc0QJw1S
Black History Month Profiles: A.J. Starling
This year, for Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is A.J. Starling.
A respected pillar of Tennessee's labor community for nearly five decades, A.J. Starling has become synonymous with the fight for economic and racial equality. As both an advocate for and friend to working families throughout the state, his commitment to ensuring that everyone is treated with the dignity and respect that they deserve is second to none. His contributions to both the labor and faith communities and desire to leave things better than he found them will be felt for decades to come.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 02/26/2021 - 09:30Tags: Black History Month
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: New Hampshire AFL-CIO Provides PPE to State Lawmakers
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.
After the U.S. District Court in Concord, New Hampshire, failed to provide remote access for at-risk legislators at the state House of Representatives, New Hampshire AFL-CIO President Glenn Brackett (IBEW) said union members handed out personal protective equipment (PPE) to lawmakers ahead of Wednesday’s House session at the NH Sportsplex.
“Last week, the New Hampshire AFL-CIO strongly urged our state representatives to provide remote accommodations for lawmakers who have special vulnerability to COVID-19, as defined by the [Americans with Disabilities Act] and Rehabilitation Act,” said Brackett. “Unfortunately, a federal judge ruled Monday that the House can proceed with in-person sessions this week without providing remote access to medically vulnerable lawmakers. We didn’t want it to come to this. No one should fear going to work. However, distributing personal protective equipment is the least we can do to keep our lawmakers safe.”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 02/26/2021 - 08:30Black History Month Profiles: Darrell Copeland
This year, for Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Darrell Copeland.
Darrell Copeland hails from Atlanta and he puts his heart and soul into growing the labor movement and bringing the dignity of union representation to nonunion workers. Copeland is a humble, capable and dynamic union leader with high expectations and a positive attitude while embracing change. Open-minded and motivated to serve, he played an important role in the Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers' (BCTGM's) campaign to win the U.S. Senate runoff elections in Georgia. He was also important in the recent BCTGM organizing victory in Memphis, Tennessee, at the Blue City Brewery, and he continues to build experience as a passionate and effective union organizer throughout the South.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 02/25/2021 - 09:27Tags: Black History Month
