Service & Solidarity Spotlight: WITF, Newspaper Journalists in Philadelphia Vote to Join The NewsGuild-CWA
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Journalists at public radio station WITF in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and the LNP newspaper voted to unionize on Monday with The NewsGuild-CWA (TNG-CWA). The vote was 39-10 in favor of joining TNG-CWA of Greater Philadelphia Local 38010. The unit comprises 57 members, and covers reporters, photographers, copy editors, deputy editors and other news production workers.
Diane Mastrull, president of The NewsGuild of Greater Philadelphia, said the vote came “amid hostile attempts by the company to discourage and intimidate. In central Pennsylvania, courage played out this week, with LancasterOnline employees standing up for themselves and overwhelmingly saying ‘yes’ to unionizing and recognizing their strength in numbers.”
TNG-CWA and management will now negotiate an initial contract.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 02/07/2025 - 09:55Worker Wins: Corporate Greed is No Match for Working People
Our latest roundup of worker wins includes numerous examples of working people organizing, bargaining and mobilizing for a better life.
UAW Members at Detroit Axle Ratify Contract: UAW members at Detroit Axle overwhelmingly voted on Saturday to ratify their new contract with Daimler Truck North America. The agreement covers more than 400 staff who build axles and transmissions for the automotive parts manufacturer. Wins include profit-sharing and cost-of-living-adjustment (COLA) benefits, as well as wage increases up to 50% through the life of the agreement for some workers. “I would like to congratulate the hardworking membership and bargaining committee at Detroit Axle on this major win. This agreement brings long overdue financial gains for our membership at Detroit Axle,” said UAW Region 1A Director Laura Dickerson in a press release. “UAW members in Region 1A are showing that corporate greed is no match for working people. When we stand together, we win!”
PrimeFlight Fuelers in Orlando Vote to Form Union: Fuelers at Orlando International Airport (MCO) who are employed by PrimeFlight Aviation Services voted unanimously on Monday to form a union with the Transport Workers Union (TWU). PrimeFlight serves many of the major airlines that operate out of MCO, including Southwest, Delta, American and United. Workers handle a number of critical jobs that keep flights running on time like operating fuel trucks, connecting hoses and more. The newly minted TWU members have cited concerns like low pay, unfair working conditions and high workplace turnover as core motivations for organizing. “We are ready to negotiate a first contract that will address significant issues with wages, benefits, and working conditions for PrimeFlight Fuelers,” said TWU International President John Samuelsen. “PrimeFlight is a company worth billions of dollars yet basic needs for workers go unmet. These workers deserve better, and today’s vote shows they want the TWU to fight for them at the bargaining table.”
Hockey Players’ Unions Join the AFL-CIO: Today, two of professional hockey’s North American players’ associations—the National Hockey League Players’ Association (NHLPA) and the Professional Hockey Players’ Association (PHPA)—announced they are formally affiliating with the AFL-CIO and joining its Sports Council. “Whether our work is on the rink, in the classroom or on the factory floor, every worker deserves a voice on the job and the power that comes with union membership,” said Liz Shuler, president of the AFL-CIO. “We are thrilled to welcome the NHLPA and the PHPA into the federation and our Sports Council, and we look forward to supporting their work to ensure strong union contracts, fair wages, safe working conditions and professional development opportunities for professional hockey players. On the heels of SEIU’s affiliation last month, America’s labor movement is more unified than ever. We will continue to channel that strength and momentum into the fight for workers’ rights.” Read the full statement from the AFL-CIO here.
GE Appliances Workers Ratify New Contract: After months of negotiations, members of IUE-CWA Local 83761 in Louisville, Kentucky, have secured a new contract with GE Appliances. IUE-CWA represents approximately 5,000 production workers at the dishwasher, refrigerator, and washer and dryer manufacturer. Their new contract includes wins such as a 60% decrease in insurance deductibles, an additional holiday off, provisions establishing a career progression system that helps workers get regular raises with additional built-in wage increases at major milestones and more. “Trying to equally distribute what we can negotiate is hard...but everybody is getting contractual wage increases every year and that’s something we can continue to build on,” said Local 83761 President Dino Driskell. “We went through the four years so workers could see what their personal gains would be....We knew we’re going to take it, or we were going to be on strike.”
WGAE Members Ratify Contract with ABC News: Members of the Writers Guild of America East (WGAE) who work at ABC News overwhelmingly ratified a new three-year contract that contains powerful language protecting workers from the encroaching presence of artificial intelligence (AI). The unit secured meaningful provisions that prevent the news outlet from laying off any current staff as a result of generative AI usage and require management to alert members if the company plans to make the use of this technology a requirement in their jobs. Additionally, ABC News is obligated to bargain with the union over the impacts of any new AI practices. Other wins in the agreement include 5% annual wage increases, more paid time off and more. “Now more than ever, we need journalists who can report and present the news while they are protected in their workplace,” said WGAE President Lisa Takeuchi Cullen in a press release. “A union contract is the only thing that ensures that protection. Our members and staff fought hard for this contract, and they deserve everything they won.”
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 02/06/2025 - 12:02Tags: Organizing
Black History Month Profiles: Charron Carter
For Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently actively making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Charron Carter of AFGE .
Charron Carter is the president of AFGE Local 727 and vice president of the Metropolitan D.C. Area Chapter of Coalition of Labor Union Women (CLUW). She works for the Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency and was pivotal in starting a petition for her and her co-workers to join the bargaining unit and become AFGE members. She was appointed chief shop steward in 2017 and was elected to a second term in 2019. She has been the local president since December 2022.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 02/06/2025 - 10:20Service & Solidarity Spotlight: AFL-CIO Launches the Department of People Who Work for a Living
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Today, the AFL-CIO has launched the Department of People Who Work for a Living (DPWL), a new campaign to hold Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, accountable and make sure the federal government is responsive to working people and not just to the whims of an unelected CEO like Musk.
In today’s New York Times, reporters Maggie Haberman and Jonathan Swan note that “The AFL-CIO campaign is one of the first organized efforts by unions to focus on the people affected by the work force cuts that the Trump administration is proposing. The labor group aims to highlight what Mr. Musk’s department is doing, arguing that its actions—which are opaque and accountable only to Mr. Trump—are potentially dangerous to the public depending on the jobs in question. The group is also seeking to highlight the chasm between Mr. Musk’s wealth and that of the people he has urged to move on from federal jobs.”
“The government can work for billionaires or it can work for working people—but not both,” said AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler. “Elon is just getting started. And he has already tried to force workers doing essential services—including at the FAA and air traffic controllers even after the tragedy at Washington National Airport—to retire, gained access to the Treasury Department’s payment system with everyone’s private data, and is declaring entire government agencies like USAID shut down and blocking workers from accessing the building and their email. We will hold DOGE and Elon Musk accountable because we are certain that the people who keep our food and medicine safe know more about how to make government efficient than an outsider whose companies benefit from the very agencies he is infiltrating.”
Read the full statement from the AFL-CIO here.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 02/06/2025 - 10:02Committed to Protecting Your Rights: 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:
Stand with the Chippendales Dancers and demand management stop their union-busting tactics!
Show your support today: https://t.co/F2eC2GKE6w pic.twitter.com/1xibgyxnFL
— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) February 4, 2025
AFGE:
We're committed to protecting your rights and ensuring that your negotiated contracts are upheld.
Stay strong, stay informed, and know that we will mobilize together to defend your workplace rights.https://t.co/VpxDRBrn0b
— AFGE (@AFGENational) February 5, 2025
AFSCME:
Investing in our nation’s transportation is essential for maintaining strong communities and a vibrant economy.
It is absurd to re-direct taxpayer dollars away from our communities because of arbitrary standards such as marriage and birth rates. https://t.co/ORQOfocl5Y
— AFSCME (@AFSCME) February 5, 2025
Alliance for Retired Americans:
Having someone who doesn't even know how Medicare and Medicaid operate "go wild" with seniors' health care is not a good idea. https://t.co/vej1r26y41 https://t.co/K5jZcBFAnW
— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) February 4, 2025
Amalgamated Transit Union:
Our Local 588-Regina, SK, members and all transit workers deserve to be safe on the job. #NotOneMore https://t.co/6QWNIFtK4Q
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) February 4, 2025
American Federation of Teachers:
You don't have to be one of the thousands of AFT members on our town hall call to send a letter to your members of Congress. They must urge the president to reinstate the protection of schools, hospitals and churches against ICE.
https://t.co/LNPzULsEj3#protectourchildren
— AFT (@AFTunion) January 31, 2025
American Postal Workers Union:
The PRC opinion released on Friday warns that the USPS plan to change service standards would result in significant downgrades in service, particularly affecting rural America, and that any cost savings associated with the changes may not be worth the serious impacts to the…
— The American Postal Workers Union - APWU (@APWUnational) February 4, 2025
Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:
Officials have declared the Flight 5342 and helicopter rescue operation in the Potomac has been moved to a recovery operation and that there are no survivors. This is gut wrenching for our entire flying family. pic.twitter.com/tgATVbFdzE
— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) January 30, 2025
Boilermakers:
Our hearts go out to our union family and all families who lost loved ones yesterday evening. Read our full statement. https://t.co/YRySXpzFmx pic.twitter.com/9k6CNHgBfN
— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) January 30, 2025
Bricklayers:
Happy #WorkSiteWednesday everyone!
Members from @iubacnj_l4_l5 have been hard at work on a furnace rebuild at Durand Glass Manufacturing in Millville, New Jersey!
Great work guys! These are some awesome pictures!#BestHandsInTheBusiness #SkilledTrades pic.twitter.com/mzZzIFDtqX
— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) February 5, 2025
Communications Workers of America:
This Black History Month, we honor the countless Black leaders, activists, and workers who shaped the labor movement and fought for justice. Together, we build on their legacy, standing united for equality and solidarity in every workplace. pic.twitter.com/waQNLdO92o
— CWA (@CWAUnion) February 1, 2025
Department for Professional Employees:
Solidarity with @WeAreUAKU members demanding a fair contract! https://t.co/TzQ49BEQJq
— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) February 5, 2025
Electrical Workers:
🥶🥶🥶🥶🥶🥶 https://t.co/FOkRc30ccg
— IBEW (@IBEW) February 4, 2025
Heat and Frost Insulators:
Supporting Our Own. 💙
The week after he graduated, Kaleb Buchanan made the trip up to the Union Hall with his mother & father.
His mother, having worked in a Union before, was very excited at the prospect of her son being trained in our trade that would provide him with a… pic.twitter.com/mti7Ou8xar
— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) January 27, 2025
International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers:
Matt Biggs, President of the IFPTE, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss pressing issues facing federal workers following the start of President Trump’s second term in office. https://t.co/UUv14tDn9e
— IFPTE (@IFPTE) February 3, 2025
Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:
📢 El Avance Newsletter is here!! 📢
Stay informed with the latest edition of El Avance Newsletter that includes crucial Know Your Rights information.
📩 Read it now!
English here: https://t.co/yPqMcAiqEz
Spanish here: https://t.co/pSiyKHfVEQ pic.twitter.com/w1Xdam41Ue
— LCLAA (@LCLAA) January 31, 2025
Labor Heritage Foundation:
LHF Labor Video & Labor Song playlists updated
Each week we feature a labor video and a labor song in the LHF newsletter; they’re all collected now on handy playlists here:https://t.co/kEk5gPb4Cn
Got a labor video and/or song we should share? Email us at info@laborheritage.org pic.twitter.com/k15ZBBl3bt
— Labor Heritage (@LaborHeritage1) February 5, 2025
Laborers:
Building Bridges. Connecting Communities.
#LIUNA is keeping North America moving, one project at a time! Check out our latest work on the Mount Hope Bridge, linking Bristol & Portsmouth, RI.
From roads to bridges, our #union Laborers are the backbone of #infrastructure.… pic.twitter.com/9VdRhV18r5
— LIUNA (@LIUNA) February 5, 2025
Machinists:
"As a union with deep ties in the aviation, aerospace and defense industries, as well as a significant presence in Wichita, we are heartbroken by the crash at Reagan Washington National Airport"
-- IAM International President Brian Bryanthttps://t.co/J9F1KcqaKq
— Machinists Union (@MachinistsUnion) January 30, 2025
Maritime Trades Department:
Potter Appointed MTD Secretary-Treasurerhttps://t.co/2d7I4OTLNK
— Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO (@Maritime_Trades) January 30, 2025
Metal Trades Department:
Groton-based submarine maker Electric Boat announces plan to hire 3K in 2025. About 400 new employees would work at the company’s shipyard in Groton. https://t.co/Mcyxz02BIF
— Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) February 4, 2025
Mine Workers:
United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) International President Cecil E. Roberts issued the following statement today:https://t.co/vtQAQ8kQk4
— United Mine Workers (@MineWorkers) January 31, 2025
Musical Artists:
AGMA's 2025 Board of Governors Election Kicks Off Today: https://t.co/zlETn3Ag07 pic.twitter.com/WD5R0sTHWm
— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) February 3, 2025
National Air Traffic Controllers Association:
Tomorrow is the LAST DAY to sign up to attend NATCA in Washington,which will be taking place March 24-26. We are contacting all 535 congressional offices to secure meetings where our NATCAvists will champion our Union’s cause. https://t.co/76IE4eukgY pic.twitter.com/Gxzxm2FsuK
— NATCA (@NATCA) February 5, 2025
National Association of Letter Carriers:
National Domestic Workers Alliance:
Domestic workers impacted by the L.A. fires have a challenging road to recovery due to a lack of labor protections and access to relief funds.
We won't let them feel left behind.
Join us: https://t.co/iYCkJyVYef
— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) February 5, 2025
National Federation of Federal Employees:
President Erwin on Deferred Resignation, New National Chief of Staff, and more - https://t.co/6Uk8WOxWg5 pic.twitter.com/jV7LiqpeuY
— NFFE (@NFFE_Union) January 31, 2025
National Nurses United:
🚨New Orleans #NurseStrike alert! Nurses at @UMCNO deserve and demand progress on a first union contract!
We're looking forward to seeing our co-workers and our community out on the strike line." – Shonda Franklin, RNhttps://t.co/8mz1e5MOon
— NationalNursesUnited (@NationalNurses) February 4, 2025
NWSL Players Association:
Welcoming two new members!! ✊ #1u https://t.co/h5oXb8o8DM
— NWSLPA (@nwsl_players) February 3, 2025
NFL Players Association:
Big congrats to Darius Slayton for winning the Alan Page Community Award!
Darius donated $50K this holiday season to support 24 families in need, partnering with NYPD officers for a celebration. In recognition, the NFLPA is donating $100K to the Left Hand Right Hand Foundation! pic.twitter.com/gk38hLG7ml
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) February 5, 2025
North America's Building Trades Unions:
.@GoIUPAT District Council 58 is making significant progress in narrowing the gender gap in the trades through grassroots efforts and strong union support. Read more about how they’re creating opportunities for more women in construction:https://t.co/fur9HmyqRB
— The Building Trades (@NABTU) February 4, 2025
Office and Professional Employees:
Local 30 member Tamua Newton has worked at City of Hope—a cancer treatment and research center—for more than 20 years. She serves as a steward and is a member of Local 30’s executive board. #BlackHistoryMonth pic.twitter.com/xcVBjkvGej
— OPEIU | #UnionStrong (@OPEIU) February 1, 2025
Painters and Allied Trades:
We’d like to welcome our new apprentice commercial painter member out of DC 53, Lucas Haye, recently sworn in by his union brother Chris Hardman. We are proud to have you be a part of the IUPAT, brother! pic.twitter.com/ZLypxTUYSt
— IUPAT (@GoIUPAT) February 5, 2025
Professional Aviation Safety Specialists:
Today @PASSprezdc sent message to PASS members regarding White House memo on CBAs: "factually speaking this memo has no impact on CBAs that have been approved through agency-head review process and are currently in effect for FAA employees in AVS and ATO."https://t.co/YwwcX0kXVY
— PASS (@PASSNational) February 3, 2025
Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:
The retail union movement is not backing down. Ashley Hamilton, a member of @reiunion Greensboro, just voted to unionize in January. Ashley had this to say about recent NLRB upheaval: "In my mind, it doesn’t slow me down, it doesn’t stop me. It makes me want it more." 🔥 pic.twitter.com/57zh0xNbVY
— RWDSU (@RWDSU) February 5, 2025
Roofers and Waterproofers:
Did you know? Roofers have 10 times the rate of fatal falls of all other construction occupations combined! https://t.co/BMNjhH7VCZ #roofersafety365 pic.twitter.com/5mof9ZP2jF
— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) February 5, 2025
SAG-AFTRA:
Happy #NationalWeatherpersonsDay! 🌦️ Join us in celebrating #SagAftraMember broadcasters who keep us informed every day, rain or shine. Let your favorite weatherperson know how much you appreciate them today! 💛 pic.twitter.com/jIuMDQDTf9
— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) February 5, 2025
Service Employees International Union (SEIU):
Short-staffing essential services means putting lives at risk. Kern County workers keep roads safe, protect kids, and support those in crisis—yet the Board of Supervisors refuses to invest in them. It's time to #FixKern and fund the frontline workers our communities rely on! 🚨✊ https://t.co/MRjODdLhHQ
— SEIU (@SEIU) February 5, 2025
The NewsGuild-CWA:
NEW: LANDSLIDE UNION VICTORY🚨
Workers at one of Denver’s oldest nonprofits just crushed their union election 15-2, joining the @DenverGuild.
Now, Metro Caring staff are ready to fight for the contract they deserve. ✊ #UnionStrong https://t.co/iKaAg6nLQ0
— The NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) February 3, 2025
Theatrical Stage Employees:
The IATSE Sports Broadcast Community teamed up with @sagaftra to celebrate the incredible women shaping sports broadcasting for #NationalGirlsAndWomenInSportsDay.
To check out our IA Sisters who are leading the way, click here: https://t.co/7Co1vxkcpk
— IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) February 5, 2025
Transport Workers Union:
COMPLETE VICTORY!
PrimeFlight Fuelers at Orlando Intl. Airport @MCO voted UNANIMOUSLY to join The TWU. They are treated miserably by PrimeFlight Aviation Services. No more. We immediately commence the fight for the 1st contract w better wages & working conditions. @TwuSamuelsen
— TWU (@transportworker) February 3, 2025
Transportation Trades Department:
From our capital city to Kansas and beyond, we are a nation in mourning.
We are devastated by the loss of all 64 souls on board Flight 5342 and the three service members aboard the Black Hawk helicopter.
Our statement: https://t.co/2nbuqhJZ8M pic.twitter.com/ceEtuMhWI6
— TTD | America's Transportation Unions (@TTDAFLCIO) January 30, 2025
UAW:
Workers at Volkswagen won their union last year. Now they're bargaining a first contract, and winning higher wages is at the top of their list. "We should be making more than we make. We all know it's corporate greed." #StandUpVW pic.twitter.com/1m8zJmOqa5
— UAW (@UAW) February 5, 2025
UNITE HERE:
BLACK HISTORY MONTH SPOTLIGHTS✨
Devon Fitzhugh, A Cook at the Palms Las Vegas & Culinary Union member since 1989—
"Culinary Union works to make our shops fair regardless of your race, gender, or country of origin. My union fights to create the same standards for all workers..." pic.twitter.com/FpXfJY3COx
— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) February 4, 2025
United Food and Commercial Workers:
19 workers at the Story cannabis dispensary in Hyattsville, MD, have voted to unionize with @UFCW400, joining fellow dispensary workers across Maryland in the fight for fair wages, better benefits, and the respect they deserve!
➡️ https://t.co/DRoT5GQCHD pic.twitter.com/NkNmEgJX3n
— UFCW (@UFCW) February 5, 2025
United Steelworkers:
Congrats to 260 UP Health System Marquette workers for ratifying their 1st contract! They achieved historic wage increases, boosted on-call pay, and secured critical safety protections.
👉 Read their story here: https://t.co/bLps7M5by3 pic.twitter.com/DDKRn70kDi
— United Steelworkers #EverybodysUnion (@steelworkers) February 4, 2025
Utility Workers:
🥳 Congratulations to all of the new officers and stewards of UWUA Local 104 who were recently sworn in by Michigan State Utility Council President Craig Wright.
Active Local leaders are the foundation of our union! #solidarity pic.twitter.com/EFbRfzlxRo
— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) February 5, 2025
Writers Guild of America East:
The WGAE is connecting members in NY, Chicago, or LA with the Hebrew Free Loan Society’s 0%-interest no fee loans programs to meet a wide array of financial needs due to layoffs, the impact of the LA wildfires & other financial emergencies. Visit https://t.co/X2PK3SbZep for more.
— Writers Guild of America East (@WGAEast) February 4, 2025
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 02/05/2025 - 12:31Black History Month Profiles: Andrea Winzer
For Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently actively making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Andrea Winzer of the United Steelworkers (USW).
Andrea Winzer of USW Local 8599 is proud to educate students as a library specialist within the Fontana Unified School District in Southern California. Her goal is to make the library a fun place where students can immerse themselves around storytelling. One way she does this is by organizing bookmark design contests during each heritage month. She also loves to serve her community, including volunteering with her church to help the homeless and veterans in her neighborhood.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 02/05/2025 - 10:35Service & Solidarity Spotlight: IBEW Members in Alaska to Install High-Speed Internet for State’s Remote Population
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Members of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 1547 in Anchorage, Alaska, are working to bridge infrastructure gaps in underserved communities by providing reliable internet to the state’s villages and rural Indigenous populations.
Local 1547 members are employed through several contractors that will begin work on the Alaska Communications' FiberOptic project later this year. This grant-funded effort aims to connect up to 21 communities along the Yukon and Kuskokwim rivers to reliable, high-speed internet. Because of the unique environmental factors in Alaska, this project is a massive, complex undertaking. But the skilled IBEW members who will be performing this high-tech work are ready to help expand connectivity throughout the region.
“It’s exciting to be on the cutting edge of telecommunications here in Alaska,” said Local 1547 Business Manager Doug Tansy, who is a member of the Native population and grew up in interior Alaska. “These are very much underserved communities, and they’re geographically very difficult to get to, as well as being extremely expensive on a per capita basis. What our telecommunications members are doing will bring change to our state’s landscape. I really think it’s going to change the ambition of those communities when they have a chance to get an education and grow their knowledge.”
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 02/05/2025 - 10:27Celebrating Black History Month: In the States Roundup
It's time once again to take a look at the ways working people are making progress in the states. Click on any of the links to follow the state federations on X (formerly Twitter).
Alaska AFL-CIO:
It appears Trump has illegally fired a member of the National Labor Relations Board, halting their essential work.
Make no mistake, this will impact working people everywhere. Project 2025 is becoming a reality before our very eyes. #1u https://t.co/XhfW0HOzaX
— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) January 28, 2025
California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:
Our prayers are with all the families affected by this tragic crash, including our @afa_cwa siblings. https://t.co/uxrXruMC7f
— California Federation of Labor Unions (@CaliforniaLabor) January 30, 2025
Colorado AFL-CIO:
The labor movement owes a great debt to the contributions of Black union members and leaders. This #BlackHistoryMonth, we honor both those who paved the way and those today continuing the fight for racial justice in the workplace and beyond. pic.twitter.com/ROGz6BcCeY
— Colorado AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOCO) February 3, 2025
Connecticut AFL-CIO:
.@AFLCIO President @LizShuler: "Whether our work is on the rink, in the classroom or on the factory floor, every worker deserves a voice on the job and the power that comes with union membership." #1u https://t.co/d2au1ckZnb
— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) February 3, 2025
Illinois AFL-CIO:
Paul was the first in his family to join the Laborers. When other family members saw the difference the union made in his life, they followed in his footsteps to pursue a career in construction. #BlackHistoryMonth #1u pic.twitter.com/OZltlLTLUv
— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) February 3, 2025
Maine AFL-CIO:
From working at a Maytag plant in Iowa & an oil rig in Texas to Bath Iron Works, @MachinistsUnion member has been through plant closures & lockouts. He shares what he's learned in this week's "Steward Spotlight!" https://t.co/tJ3VIoSmZM
— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) February 4, 2025
Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
Meet Jeff Plaistead from @Ibew223, one of the many union members building the clean energy future in Massachusetts and across America. #CleanEnergy https://t.co/e4XODdweUA
— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) February 3, 2025
Michigan State AFL-CIO:
.@SenGaryPeters has been a steadfast advocate for Michigan’s working families and a true champion for unions. He's stood shoulder to shoulder with workers, fighting for better wages, safer workplaces, and stronger protections for the right to organize. https://t.co/gXzZp4fUQ5
— Michigan AFL-CIO ✊ (@MIAFLCIO) January 28, 2025
Minnesota AFL-CIO:
"Each additional year that a respondent spent as a union member associated with about 1.5% lower odds of mortality after the age of 40." https://t.co/CCTKKbT6IE #BetterInAUnion
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) January 30, 2025
Missouri AFL-CIO:
The White House’s attack on diversity in the federal workforce is bad for all workers. Diversifying our federal workforce helps government agencies better serve their communities and working people across the country.
More from Merri Berry ⬇️https://t.co/YoanSRH6Zj
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) February 3, 2025
Nevada State AFL-CIO:
Happy first day of session!
We are excited to work with legislators, labor leaders, and affiliates to help ensure that pro-labor bills are passed during Nevada’s 83rd legislative session. pic.twitter.com/7VRtNpnwq6
— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) February 4, 2025
New Hampshire AFL-CIO:
Our Brothers and Sisters are here today to tell their elected Representatives that “Right-to-Work” is STILL WRONG for NH!
Please help us by following the link to send a letter to your legislator today: https://t.co/QP4RyjZZTs
Thank you for your #Solidarity! ✊#NHPolitics #1u pic.twitter.com/GahXnrrHj3
— New Hampshire AFL-CIO (@NHAFLCIO) January 28, 2025
New York State AFL-CIO:
This morning President Mario Cilento spoke at the NYS Senate Labor Committee meeting about the legislative priorities of NY's union movement. Thank you Chairwoman @NYSenatorRamos for the invitation! pic.twitter.com/TNyYFp6nES
— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) February 4, 2025
North Carolina State AFL-CIO:
NC voters elected Justice Riggs to keep her seat on the NC Supreme Court, which was reaffirmed in two independent recounts. Instead of trying to steal her win, Griffin needs to concede! https://t.co/lQcUxFAlHu #1u #ncpol
— NC State AFL-CIO // #CountMeIn (@NCStateAFLCIO) February 4, 2025
Ohio AFL-CIO:
They truly beleive we were put here to serve billionaires. Our true role in society is to put an honest days work in to be good family and community members with life fulfillments outside of making money off the backs of our neighbors. https://t.co/sw6R4rC2Gq
— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) January 29, 2025
Oregon AFL-CIO:
Healthcare workers at Providence represented by the Oregon Nurses Association and Teamsters at Bigfoot Beverages are STILL walking the line for fair contracts.
Join them today by finding a picket line near you at https://t.co/bb7P96KEa4 pic.twitter.com/XUHwEDhRRQ
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) February 4, 2025
Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:
Union apprenticeships build a stronger Pennsylvania. #PABudget https://t.co/y3P8XbcRzv
— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) February 4, 2025
Texas AFL-CIO:
🚨 The Texas Senate will vote on the voucher scam THIS WEEK, putting our public schools’ funding & our retirees’ hard-earned pensions in jeopardy.
Add your name TODAY to tell the #txlege: keep public dollars in public schools & protect our retirees! #SB2 https://t.co/5CDXEAFlOD
— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) February 3, 2025
Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:
Throughout this month we will honor all those who came before us and those currently fighting for racial justice in the workplace and in the Pacific Northwest.
We uplift Coalition of Black Trade Unionists, an independent voice of black workers within the trade union movement pic.twitter.com/XYxHmhGZCk
— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) February 2, 2025
Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
Veteran flight attendant reacts to potential Air Wisconsin mass layoffs, unions await next steps https://t.co/DlwfstR8Z5
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) February 4, 2025
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 02/04/2025 - 10:51Black History Month Profiles: Latauna Bigelow
For Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently actively making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Latauna Bigelow of SMART.
Latauna Bigelow joined SMART Local 100 16 years ago after graduating from apprenticeship school and became a journeyman. In addition to working as a conductor warden, she has served as shop steward, an organizer and a RISE committee member. In order to create a more inclusive workspace, she is educating herself, getting more involved in the RISE committee and sharing her personal experiences. Over the years, Bigelow has won many awards, but finds it most rewarding when a member thanks her for her words of encouragement and for being a great listener.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 02/04/2025 - 10:35Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Hockey Players’ Unions Join the AFL-CIO
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Today, two of professional hockey’s North American players’ associations—the National Hockey League Players’ Association (NHLPA) and the Professional Hockey Players’ Association (PHPA)—announced they are formally affiliating with the AFL-CIO and joining its Sports Council.
“Whether our work is on the rink, in the classroom or on the factory floor, every worker deserves a voice on the job and the power that comes with union membership,” said Liz Shuler, president of the AFL-CIO. “We are thrilled to welcome the NHLPA and the PHPA into the federation and our Sports Council, and we look forward to supporting their work to ensure strong union contracts, fair wages, safe working conditions and professional development opportunities for professional hockey players. On the heels of SEIU’s affiliation last month, America’s labor movement is more unified than ever. We will continue to channel that strength and momentum into the fight for workers’ rights.”
Read the full statement from the AFL-CIO here.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 02/04/2025 - 10:27Gaining A Seat at the Table: The Working People Weekly List
Every week, we bring you a roundup of the top news and commentary about issues and events important to working families. Here’s the latest edition of the Working People Weekly List.
Portland City Workers Vote Overwhelmingly to Strike: “More than a thousand unionized city of Portland workers voted overwhelmingly on Tuesday to strike following months of negotiations. The American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (Oregon AFSCME Local 189) said 87% of people voted in favor of a strike, with 89% of members who participated in the vote.”
GE Appliances Union Workers Ratify New Contract. Here’s What We Know: “After months of contract negotiations and union workers striking down a tentative agreement, workers at GE Appliances have ratified a new labor contract. The roughly 5,000 union workers in Louisville at GE Appliances—a major manufacturer of dishwashers, refrigerators, and washers and dryers—voted in the new contract on Wednesday with 72.5% of voting workers in favor of the new deal. IUE-CWA Local 83761 President Dino Driskell said the contract is a roughly $142 million investment over its four years. ‘The IUE-CWA Local 83761 has informed us that the proposed four-year agreement has passed,’ GE Appliances spokesperson Julie Wood told the Courier Journal via email Wednesday evening. ‘We appreciate our employees’ ongoing commitment to our business and the work they do every day to support our customers.’”
“No Cuts, No Compromise!”: Kansas Citians Mobilize to Defend Public Transit as Funding Crisis Looms: “Last week, over 100 low-wage workers, bus riders and drivers came together to protest major cuts to bus routes and union jobs that are being considered by the city government. Bus riders and community members with Stand Up KC joined Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 1287 members and Sunrise Movement KC outside of the Kansas City Area Transit Authority (KCATA) headquarters to protest a lack of funding from KCMO City Council.”
GM Profit Sharing: Here’s the Record Amount UAW Members Will Get for 2024: “For every $1 billion GM makes in North America, the automaker’s hourly U.S. employees receive $1,000, according to the Detroit automaker’s agreement with the United Auto Workers. GM made about $14.258 billion in North America in 2024, up 18% year-over-year. ‘Our membership performed beyond all expectations,’ [UAW International Vice President Mike] Booth wrote. ‘It is our members’ skillfulness that made this profit possible, as they produce the finest products in the world, right here in the U.S.A.’”
For Inspiration in 2025, Look to Labor’s 2024 Wins (Liz Shuler): “As we kick off 2025, there is no better source of inspiration than looking back at the extraordinary things workers accomplished this past year. I am struck by how stories of workers standing together and holding corporations accountable dominated headlines. Organizing stayed on the rise as the National Labor Relations Board reported that union election petitions were up 27% from fiscal year 2023. In a critical election year, 26,000 union volunteers across the country reached more than 10 million voters, and made the difference for pro-worker candidates. And all over the country, brave workers took to the streets and went on strikes that secured life-changing new contracts.”
Whole Foods Workers Form First Union in Amazon’s Grocery Chain: “Workers at a Whole Foods Market in Philadelphia voted on Monday to become the first unionized store in Amazon’s grocery chain, opening a new front in the e-commerce giant’s efforts to fend off labor organizing in multiple segments of its business. Employees at the sprawling Whole Foods store, in the city’s Spring Garden neighborhood, voted 130 to 100 in favor of organizing with the United Food and Commercial Workers union, the National Labor Relations Board said.”
Beth Israel Medical Center Residents and Fellows Vote to Unionize: “Residents and fellows at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center voted to unionize with 83 percent in favor on Wednesday, joining the Service Employees International Union’s Committee of Interns and Residents. Sixty-one percent of the 811-member bargaining unit—which includes interns, residents, chief residents, and physician fellows at BIDMC—participated in the mail-in election, which was run by the National Labor Relations board from Dec. 19 to Jan. 17. The vote passed by a margin of 407–85. CIR-SEIU organizers wrote in a press release that the BIDMC house staff unionized ‘to gain a seat at the table to advocate for themselves and their patients, especially immigrant and refugee patients, and other folks coming from working-class communities of color who often face the highest barriers to care.’”
Union Leaders Critique Hotels’ Skipped Room Cleanings: “Is skipping hotel room cleanings saving the environment or a scam for hotels to save on labor costs? Union leaders are calling out hotels for their supposed concern for the environment, arguing that this is nothing more than a ruse to allow customers to expect less while paying the same price. Lizzy Tapia, president of Unite Here Local 2, a San Francisco-based hotel workers union, explained on a recent broadcast of America’s Workforce Union Podcast that ‘previous to the pandemic, [Marriott Hotels] used to have what they called ‘The Green Choice Program’ [that allowed guests to choose not to have their rooms cleaned every day but]...after 3 days or 5 days of not having your room cleaned, your room is sticky and dusty and dirty—[and] it requires double the amount of work, not to mention the chemicals and water, and all of that stuff. So, The Green Choice Program was a hoax.’”
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 02/03/2025 - 14:37Black History Month Profiles: Raya Fagg
For Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently actively making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Raya Fagg of the Office and Professional Employees (OPEIU).
Raya Fagg is the outreach coordinator for the Office of Cultural Affairs for Upper Darby Township in Pennsylvania. An OPEIU Local 153 member since 2019, she also serves as the secretary for her union’s executive board. "Systems can be changed," she said, "but it has to start with an individual and end with a collective."
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 02/03/2025 - 13:50Service & Solidarity Spotlight: GE Appliances Workers Ratify New Contract
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
After months of negotiations, members of IUE-CWA Local 83761 in Louisville, Kentucky, have secured a new contract with GE Appliances.
IUE-CWA represents approximately 5,000 production workers at the dishwasher, refrigerator, and washer and dryer manufacturer. Their new contract includes wins such as a 60% decrease in insurance deductibles, an additional holiday off, provisions establishing a career progression system that helps workers get regular raises with additional built-in wage increases at major milestones and more.
“Trying to equally distribute what we can negotiate is hard...but everybody is getting contractual wage increases every year and that’s something we can continue to build on,” said Local 83761 President Dino Driskell. “We went through the four years so workers could see what their personal gains would be....We knew we’re going to take it, or we were going to be on strike.”
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 02/03/2025 - 10:22Service & Solidarity Spotlight: WGAE Members Ratify Contract with ABC News
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Members of the Writers Guild of America East (WGAE) who work at ABC News overwhelmingly ratified a new three-year contract that contains powerful language protecting workers from the encroaching presence of artificial intelligence (AI).
The unit secured meaningful provisions that prevent the news outlet from laying off any current staff as a result of generative AI usage and require management to alert members if the company plans to make the use of this technology a requirement in their jobs. Additionally, ABC News is obligated to bargain with the union over the impacts of any new AI practices. Other wins in the agreement include 5% annual wage increases, more paid time off and more.
“Now more than ever, we need journalists who can report and present the news while they are protected in their workplace,” said WGAE President Lisa Takeuchi Cullen in a press release. “A union contract is the only thing that ensures that protection. Our members and staff fought hard for this contract, and they deserve everything they won.”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 01/31/2025 - 10:01Worker Wins: An Important Step Forward
Our latest roundup of worker wins includes numerous examples of working people organizing, bargaining and mobilizing for a better life.
Whole Foods Workers Make History with Union Election: On Monday, workers at a Philadelphia Whole Foods Market voted to join United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 1776, making them the first union store in Amazon’s grocery chain. The e-commerce giant has owned Whole Foods since 2017. Since taking over, Amazon has rolled back numerous worker benefits, cut staffing and changed things like attendance policies for the worse. As expected, this campaign was faced with numerous instances of anti-union retaliation and intimidation tactics, forcing UFCW to file unfair labor practice charges against the grocer. Full- and part-time staff cite the need for livable wages, affordable health care and better retirement packages as key motivators for organizing. But members of Whole Foods Workers United also hope their story of taking on a union-busting behemoth—and winning—will also inspire their counterparts at hundreds of locations across the country. “I expect others to follow, and that will increase the leverage that we have at the bargaining table,” said Ben Lovett, a member of Whole Foods Workers United. “We’ve shown them that it’s possible to organize at Amazon.” “This fight is far from over, but today’s victory is an important step forward,” said Wendell Young, president of Local 1776. “We are ready to bring Whole Foods to the bargaining table to negotiate a fair first contract that reflects the workers’ needs and priorities.”
Boston Commuter Rail Workers Unions Secure New Contracts: Commuter rail workers represented by Machinists (IAM) Local 318, TCU/IAM, the Brotherhood Railway Carmen of America, and the American Railway and Airway Supervisors Association (ARASA) have all ratified new contracts with Keolis Commuter Services. Keolis operates the commuter rail system on behalf of Amtrak and the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) in the Boston metro area and parts of Rhode Island. The union coalition—which includes members who handle core responsibilities like engineering, locomotives and maintenance—garnered support from local lawmakers who called for a fair deal. “These union members stood together. We all came together as a coalition to demand that Keolis step up to meet the reasonable needs of the workforce,” said TCU/IAM National President Arthur Maratea. “We showed a lot of solidarity, and we’re happy to deliver new contracts to our unions’ hard-working rail members in Boston.” “Our members are dedicated to serving Boston’s commuters and worked under an outdated contract with no raises for two years until Keolis could make a fair deal,” said IAM District 19 Directing General Chair Reece Murtagh. “We never disrupted commuters’ lives, but we made it known that we would not settle for less than these members deserve.”
Delaware County District Library Workers Win Union Election: Ohio’s State Employment Relations Board certified on Monday that staff at Delaware County District Library (DCDL) have successfully voted to organize with the Ohio Federation of Teachers (OFT), the state affiliate of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT). Under the name Delaware County United Library Staff (DCULS), the new unit covers 85 librarians and library workers. Despite the library’s board of trustees voting to remain neutral during the organizing effort, DCDL’s director included union-busting talking points at a mandatory staff meeting. Under Ohio law, the library is required to allow the same amount of time for a pro-union message, but workers were forced to file an unfair labor practice charge when management refused to do so. Now that DCULS members have won their representation by 82%, they’re looking forward to starting negotiations for a first contract. “Having grown up in Delaware County and seen its changes over my lifetime, there have been enormous changes that we never even imagined. Our community size and its needs have changed, but our commitment to the Delaware County community hasn't,” said Kaleb Kramer, an Adult Services specialist at the Liberty Branch Library. “Our new union empowers all levels of staff to leverage our community relationships and experiences in partnership with our management and Board to keep pace with the rapid changes happening in our county.”
UAW Welcomes Stellantis Recommitment to Restart Illinois Factory After Pressure Campaign: After months of the UAW organizing to keep the manufacturer accountable, Stellantis announced last week it will be producing a new mid-sized pickup truck at its shuttered assembly plant in Illinois and building the next-generation Dodge Durango SUV in Detroit. Stellantis—which owns Chrysler, Jeep, Ram and other brands—closed the Belvidere facility in 2023, then later that year agreed to reopen it as part of an agreement with the UAW. The corporation attempted to walk back that promise in August 2024, prompting the union to launch its Keep the Promise campaign that included demonstrations, grievance filings and other actions. “This victory is a testament to the power of workers standing together and holding a billion-dollar corporation accountable,” said UAW President Shawn Fain in a press release. “We’ve shown that we will do what it takes to protect the good union jobs that are the lifeblood of places like Belvidere, Detroit, Kokomo, and beyond.”
PASS Ratifies Second Contract with Federal Aviation Administration: Former Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator Mike Whitaker (right) and Professional Aviation Safety Specialists (PASS) National President Dave Spero (left) signed a new contract this month covering approximately 7,200 employees in the FAA’s Air Traffic Organization. PASS members voted to ratify the new five-year deal with 88% approval in early January. This contract went into effect right before a series of anti-federal employee executive orders were handed down by the new Trump administration. The contract offers financial incentives to workers, strengthens telework and remote work provisions, and increases rest requirements for this safety-critical workforce. “Although the process took longer than we would have liked, PASS bargained as efficiently and effectively as possible,” said Spero. “PASS did not get everything we wanted but we made many improvements that will enhance employees’ work lives and address staffing issues at air traffic control facilities that have difficulty retaining workers. I’m proud of the work our team did at the bargaining table. It was challenging at times, but in the end, we achieved a strong collective bargaining agreement. I want to thank our members for their support and patience during the process.”
Culinary Union Members Ratify Contract with Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, Ending Strike: On Wednesday, members of UNITE HERE’s Nevada affiliates—Culinary Union Local 226 and Bartenders Union Local 165—who work at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas unanimously ratified a new contract. This victory ends 69 days of around-the-clock picket lines, the longest work stoppage in decades for these hospitality workers. Staff at the hotel-casino bravely held the line throughout the duration of the strike and received an outpouring of support—including from the NFL Players Association (NFLPA), which publicly pledged a boycott. In a joint statement, the unions and employer said: “Virgin Hotels Las Vegas and the Culinary and Bartenders Unions are pleased to be moving past their contract negotiations as each looks forward to fostering a positive and collaborative working relationship for the benefit of all team members at the property. Parties are committed to the resolution of our dispute and to maintaining a union standard at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas that provides for its team members’ families and fosters a better community for all.”
Planned Parenthood of Michigan Staff Ratify First Agreement: United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 951 members who work at Planned Parenthood of Michigan in Kalamazoo voted overwhelmingly last week to ratify their first contract. Kalamazoo Health Center was the first Planned Parenthood site in west Michigan to organize when workers joined UFCW in June. The agreement, which covers 25 medical assistants and five registered nurses, includes wins such as higher wages, more paid time off, increases in bereavement leave, creation of a safety committee and more. “The workers at Planned Parenthood—Kalamazoo Health Center wanted union representation to give them the guarantees and protections in the workplace they deserve,” said John Cakmakci, president of Local 951. “We are excited to represent the employees at Planned Parenthood of Michigan in Kalamazoo.”
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 01/30/2025 - 10:23Tags: Organizing
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Planned Parenthood of Michigan Staff Ratify First Agreement
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 951 members who work at Planned Parenthood of Michigan in Kalamazoo voted overwhelmingly last week to ratify their first contract.
Kalamazoo Health Center was the first Planned Parenthood site in west Michigan to organize when workers joined UFCW in June. The agreement, which covers 25 medical assistants and five registered nurses, includes wins such as higher wages, more paid time off, increases in bereavement leave, creation of a safety committee and more.
“The workers at Planned Parenthood—Kalamazoo Health Center wanted union representation to give them the guarantees and protections in the workplace they deserve,” said John Cakmakci, president of Local 951. “We are excited to represent the employees at Planned Parenthood of Michigan in Kalamazoo.”
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 01/30/2025 - 10:15Building the Skills to Fight for Working Families: What Working People Are Doing This Week
Welcome to our regular feature, a look at what the various AFL-CIO unions and other working family organizations are doing across the country and beyond. The labor movement is big and active—here's a look at the broad range of activities we're engaged in this week.
Actors' Equity:
We are currently accepting nominations for the 2025 Paul Robeson Award! Know an individual or organization that best exemplifies and practices the principles and ideals of Paul Robeson, please submit nominations by Wednesday, February 26, 2025 - https://t.co/bYVtsxMzdE pic.twitter.com/G2yqcUrNuQ
— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) January 29, 2025
AFGE:
AFGE is urging ALL members and civil servants NOT to make a hasty decision to resign until you have further details. https://t.co/XMgUnOR7Vx
— AFGE (@AFGENational) January 29, 2025
AFSCME:
Billionaires have amassed more power and influence than ever, and they are using it now to rob working people. This freeze on federal assistance funding comes straight from Project 2025 and threatens to hurt working families. https://t.co/3GrBpYOTf5
— AFSCME (@AFSCME) January 28, 2025
Alliance for Retired Americans:
Alliance members are already showing up to support workers this year! @TX4TARA members joined a ULP strike against Amazon and PA Alliance members helped shutdown Starbucks in White Hall. #1u #ItsBetterInAUnion pic.twitter.com/k1I6e7kJEW
— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) January 28, 2025
Amalgamated Transit Union:
Local 616-Windsor, ON, joined with riders to push the City to save this critical bus service that many citizens rely on. #ATUStrongerTogether #canlab #1u #Windsor @OFLabour https://t.co/YY2mVv4nWV
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) January 28, 2025
American Federation of Musicians:
Thank you, @VernBuchanan and @RepJudyChu, for reintroducing the Performing Arts Tax Parity Act (PAPTA) to restore the ability of performing artists to deduct their ordinary and necessary unreimbursed business expenses. https://t.co/gZ6R1279EO
— AFM (@The_AFM) January 27, 2025
American Federation of Teachers:
Working families are struggling to make ends meet while billionaires & corporations rake in record profits. Giving those at the top more tax breaks won't lower costs for families, it will just make our economy even more rigged.
Renewing the #TrumpTaxCuts is a scam. pic.twitter.com/nSqZiHhnPC
— AFT (@AFTunion) January 27, 2025
Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:
Reminder: Scholarship deadlines are approaching!
Our AFA membership provides opportunities for scholarships, & the ability to earn a degree with no out of pocket expense for tuition, fees & books. More info, incl. @CWAUnion & @UnionPlus scholarships: https://t.co/xJeWNjAKe3
— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) January 27, 2025
Boilermakers:
#Boilermaker travelers joined L-13 and L-28 to execute three impressive 450-ton reactor critical lifts. Have you boomed out for work? What's your best Boilermaker travel story? https://t.co/oPbIjaQcd7 pic.twitter.com/zr0aZOhwIV
— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) January 29, 2025
Bricklayers:
Recently, members from BAC Local 3 MA/ME/RI battled the elements to build the new Tobin Montessori School in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Featuring 70 geothermal wells, a massive solar canopy, and is projected for LEED platinum certification!
read more: https://t.co/RbAHMJV5Sv pic.twitter.com/zUIOOKHI3A
— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) January 29, 2025
Communications Workers of America:
🙌 Thrilled to see our members stepping up at today's legislative training in NY! Building the skills to fight for working families & make our voices heard in Albany. Together, we're shaping a better future for all New Yorkers! 💪 #CWAStrong #1u pic.twitter.com/fs2a2ySSQ5
— CWA District 1 (@CWADistrict1) January 27, 2025
Department for Professional Employees:
Today, the @BLS_gov released its annual union membership report which found that union professionals grew to 6.5 million in 2024. Here's DPE's full statement: https://t.co/8YISm3cj7M pic.twitter.com/igXWrdTjFI
— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) January 28, 2025
Electrical Workers:
Happy Birthday, IBEW 569!
For 105 years, 569 members have gathered in strength & solidarity, in unity for the dignity of our work, & safety of San Diego & Imperial Counties' worksites, & for each other. Generations of electricians have benefited. #UnionStrong #IBEWProud pic.twitter.com/OobZ9FCyYh
— IBEW569 (@IBEW569) January 29, 2025
Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:
🚨 Students have rights! 🛑 Schools cannot disclose information about a student's immigration status. It's crucial to be prepared and know what to do in case of an immigration raid. Access resources to protect yourself and your family. Knowledge is power. 💪🏽 #StudentsRights pic.twitter.com/Cgg6CSGEXa
— LCLAA (@LCLAA) January 29, 2025
Labor Heritage Foundation:
Listen now: MLK in Memphis https://t.co/cIykusMczB
— Labor Heritage (@LaborHeritage1) January 26, 2025
Laborers:
When #LIUNA shows up, bosses listen! Like, these Mail Handlers on the picket line proving that #solidarity isn't just a word—it's our SUPERPOWER. Are you with us? pic.twitter.com/tklupMEJ36
— LIUNA (@LIUNA) January 29, 2025
Machinists:
(1/2) An IAM member lost their life on the job today at Charlotte Douglas International Airport. The IAM is coordinating with authorities to conduct a full investigation. https://t.co/2OtSlP1wUd
— Machinists Union (@MachinistsUnion) January 28, 2025
Musical Artists:
Hats! Mugs! Totes! Announcing SwAGMA: the Union’s Official Merch Store. $5 from every purchase goes to the AGMA Relief Fund: https://t.co/k4IM8SZSEg pic.twitter.com/Nx4pEYsKon
— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) January 28, 2025
National Air Traffic Controllers Association:
Limited edition merchandise for the NATCA Convention taking place in San Francisco May 9-11, 2025 is available to pre-order. Last day to order is February 1, 2025, for guaranteed pickup at NATCA Convention. https://t.co/oS5xfqlF5m pic.twitter.com/V5jTsi8WAw
— NATCA (@NATCA) January 29, 2025
National Association of Letter Carriers:
Why is USPS consistently ranked as one of the most trusted government agencies?
Because NALC members build community, serve with pride, and deliver dependability 💯 pic.twitter.com/fnT8q343gw
— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) January 28, 2025
National Domestic Workers Alliance:
The Altadena fires have devastated many caregivers, adding financial strain on families raising children and taking care of aging parents without the protections and support they deserve.
We must provide long-term solutions for care now.https://t.co/z1WWlnpey7
— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) January 29, 2025
National Nurses United:
NNU nurses stand in solidarity with the @OregonNurses on strike demanding Providence put patients over profits! Hold the line! ✊ pic.twitter.com/2TYVdVqthM
— NationalNursesUnited (@NationalNurses) January 28, 2025
NFL Players Association:
Our 2025-26 application window for the NFLPA Charitable Grants Partnership is now open!
Clink the link to learn more about the program: https://t.co/Vi6oQPYYzh pic.twitter.com/GifsvapWUJ
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) January 29, 2025
North America's Building Trades Unions:
There is power in a union. pic.twitter.com/N3qFixyszE
— The Building Trades (@NABTU) January 27, 2025
Office and Professional Employees:
Solidarity with the staff at Planned Parenthood of Greater Ohio, who are one step closer to formalizing their union with OPEIU Local 98! https://t.co/UaDaSHbzsN
— OPEIU | #UnionStrong (@OPEIU) January 27, 2025
Painters and Allied Trades:
Four of our apprentices are competing this week at Surfaces -- Jonathan Youn, a third year apprentice from DC 50 in Hawaii; Diana Jimenz, a third year apprentice from DC 36 in California; Harrison Aho, a second year apprentice from DC 5 in Washington; and Edgar Lopez, a fifth… pic.twitter.com/staMOZ5jBl
— IUPAT (@GoIUPAT) January 29, 2025
Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:
Know your rights: you have the right to a safe workplace!
Check out resources from RWDSU’s Health and Safety Department: https://t.co/6tmmHgYzhp pic.twitter.com/ZF6EbvSAup
— RWDSU (@RWDSU) January 26, 2025
Roofers and Waterproofers:
This is truly historic--the first unionized store in Amazon’s grocery chain. This is just the beginning. See what happens when workers unite against corporate greed and stand up to their union-busting tactics. #Solidarity https://t.co/uHrQv5Zq4X
— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) January 28, 2025
SAG-AFTRA:
Check out the SAG-AFTRA podcast for key takeaways from #CES2025. EVP Linda Powell and NED Duncan Crabtree-Ireland are joined by members of the SAG-AFTRA National Innovation and New Technology Committee and A.I. Task Force Committee. Listen now: https://t.co/glo0fqULc1
— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) January 24, 2025
Service Employees International Union (SEIU):
🚨 SOLIDARITY WITH RICHMOND JANITORS! 150 union workers from @32BJSEIU are on the picket line with contracted janitors standing against Nu-Tech’s illegal firings, discrimination, & cruel treatment. Janitors—earning as little as $15/hr with no PTO—deserve dignity, not retaliation. pic.twitter.com/YI0k7S1eFe
— SEIU (@SEIU) January 28, 2025
Solidarity Center:
Our partners the Firestone Agricultural Workers Union of Liberia (FAWUL) are bargaining for better living & working conditions at Bridgestone's Liberia rubber plantation ✊🏿. Join us in showing support & #solidarity by signing their petition: https://t.co/o2xVtcG9vX#WorkerRights
— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) January 23, 2025
The NewsGuild-CWA:
NEW: First contract win for staff at Democracy Works (@dwcollectiveTNG)!✊ Their contract includes:
✅ Guaranteed wage increases
✅ Layoff protections + severance
✅ 12 weeks of paid parental leave
✅Expanded protections against discrimination
and more:https://t.co/r2Yl7KCOvZ
— The NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) January 24, 2025
Theatrical Stage Employees:
We talked to Liv Rigdon and Christian Soto, workers who were picketing outside of the Atlantic Theater to hear their thoughts surrounding the current strike for a fair contract. pic.twitter.com/04InIyp55P
— IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) January 28, 2025
Transport Workers Union:
Always great to bump into TWU retirees enjoying the retirement they earned, like Errol Bassit, MaBSTOA, @TWULocal100, at the airport in Miami. @TwuSamuelsen pic.twitter.com/krYWcoY6By
— TWU (@transportworker) January 29, 2025
Transportation Trades Department:
From DC to NYC and back again, we’re grateful for the @Amtrak workers who keep us moving! 🚆 pic.twitter.com/INd6mBgBs4
— TTD | America's Transportation Unions (@TTDAFLCIO) January 28, 2025
UAW:
“Our members, who get paid roughly $35 an hour, have been asked to somehow figure out how they can compete with workers that make $3 an hour,” said Jason Wade, an assistant to UAW President Shawn Fain. “Those workers should be paid either the exact same or in close proximity to…
— UAW (@UAW) January 29, 2025
UNITE HERE:
The union difference matters for queer and trans workers. At #CreatingChange2025, UNITE HERE members from across the union shared stories about how affordable and inclusive health care, good wages, & non-discrimination protections changed workers’ lives. pic.twitter.com/csbEVmWRyA
— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) January 27, 2025
United Food and Commercial Workers:
Workers at the Cannabis 21+ dispensary in Mission Valley, San Diego, have voted to join @UFCW135
With the union backing them, these workers intend to secure better wages, benefits, and conditions.
Let’s get to work!
➡️ https://t.co/Zy4796z7GR pic.twitter.com/ZtDYopFj5P
— UFCW (@UFCW) January 23, 2025
United Steelworkers:
We honored former U.S. Trade Rep. Katherine Tai with the Wellstone Award for her dedication to worker-centered trade, good jobs, and strong supply chains during her tenure under Biden. Named for Sen. Paul Wellstone, the award recognizes champions of labor and public service. pic.twitter.com/tEgcIMqzL0
— United Steelworkers #EverybodysUnion (@steelworkers) January 28, 2025
Utility Workers:
👏👏👏 ICYMI: New members of UWUA Local 105 at Dearborn Industrial Gas secured a milestone first contract with the help of the Michigan State Utility Workers Council. 🧵 #ItsBetterInAUnion pic.twitter.com/3to09bSXI6
— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) January 29, 2025
Writers Guild of America East:
CONGRATULATIONS to our members at ABC News who just ratified a groundbreaking contract that includes language protecting members from being laid-off due to the use of generative AI. ✊ #UnionStrong
Read more details via https://t.co/K9tSQPmaTP pic.twitter.com/DOQv0KE6Gv
— Writers Guild of America East (@WGAEast) January 28, 2025
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 01/29/2025 - 09:32Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Whole Foods Workers Make History with Union Election
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
On Monday, workers at a Philadelphia Whole Foods Market voted to join United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 1776, making them the first union store in Amazon’s grocery chain.
The e-commerce giant has owned Whole Foods since 2017. Since taking over, Amazon has rolled back numerous worker benefits, cut staffing and changed things like attendance policies for the worse. As expected, this campaign was faced with numerous instances of anti-union retaliation and intimidation tactics, forcing UFCW to file unfair labor practice charges against the grocer. Full- and part-time staff cite the need for livable wages, affordable health care and better retirement packages as key motivators for organizing. But members of Whole Foods Workers United also hope their story of taking on a union-busting behemoth—and winning—will also inspire their counterparts at hundreds of locations across the country.
“I expect others to follow, and that will increase the leverage that we have at the bargaining table,” said Ben Lovett, a member of Whole Foods Workers United. “We’ve shown them that it’s possible to organize at Amazon.”
“This fight is far from over, but today’s victory is an important step forward,” said Wendell Young, president of Local 1776. “We are ready to bring Whole Foods to the bargaining table to negotiate a fair first contract that reflects the workers’ needs and priorities.”
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 01/29/2025 - 09:19Service & Solidarity Spotlight: UAW Welcomes Stellantis Recommitment to Restart Illinois Factory After Pressure Campaign
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
After months of the UAW organizing to keep the manufacturer accountable, Stellantis announced last week it will be producing a new mid-sized pickup truck at its shuttered assembly plant in Illinois and building the next-generation Dodge Durango SUV in Detroit.
Stellantis—which owns Chrysler, Jeep, Ram and other brands—closed the Belvidere facility in 2023, then later that year agreed to reopen it as part of an agreement with the UAW. The corporation attempted to walk back that promise in August 2024, prompting the union to launch its Keep the Promise campaign that included demonstrations, grievance filings and other actions.
“This victory is a testament to the power of workers standing together and holding a billion-dollar corporation accountable,” said UAW President Shawn Fain in a press release. “We’ve shown that we will do what it takes to protect the good union jobs that are the lifeblood of places like Belvidere, Detroit, Kokomo, and beyond.”
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 01/28/2025 - 10:13We Will Not Be Silent, We Will Not Back Down: In the States Roundup
It's time once again to take a look at the ways working people are making progress in the states. Click on any of the links to follow the state federations on X (formerly Twitter).
Alaska AFL-CIO:
Last year, lawmakers appropriated $1,000,000 in public funds to conduct a salary study.
A draft was completed in October of 2024. Where is the report now? Dunleavy says all copies were destroyed. Sign the petition and tell Mike to release the study!https://t.co/NTqxgoG3Th
— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) January 28, 2025
Arizona AFL-CIO:
"The U.S. Department of Labor has obtained a consent judgment ordering two commonly owned Arizona drywall and painting companies to pay $7,450,000 in back wages and damages..."https://t.co/XHXMNbCmjt
— Arizona AFL-CIO (@ArizonaAFLCIO) January 17, 2025
California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:
We will not be silent, we will not back down. pic.twitter.com/N2tefjhgv8
— California Federation of Labor Unions (@CaliforniaLabor) January 21, 2025
Colorado AFL-CIO:
We're big fans of Ken Casey and the Dropkick Murphys. Thank you, Ken, for sending words of encouragement to Colorado -- we're #ShippingUpToDenver to get the Worker Protection Act passed and make it easier for Colorado workers to form a union 💪 #copolitics #coleg pic.twitter.com/CzfQQO9Nuk
— Colorado AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOCO) January 23, 2025
Connecticut AFL-CIO:
BREAKING: @CTComptroller Sean Scanlon & Labor Committee Co-Chair @SenatorJulie Kushner announce legislation that will give the Comptroller the authority to withhold money to contractors on state construction projects for violations of prevailing wage pic.twitter.com/KkwFPjw9eJ
— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) January 27, 2025
Illinois AFL-CIO:
Tradeswomen Take Over Springfield is coming to the Capitol on March 5th! We'll meet with legislators to talk about the importance of diversity in the trades and what we can do to recruit and retain more women.
Register here: https://t.co/QYTjhHhRPG pic.twitter.com/FLkNmVSiWo
— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) January 27, 2025
Maine AFL-CIO:
An epic tale of how nurses at Eastern Maine Medical Center in Bangor won the first union contract at a hospital in Maine. The nurses faced union busting consultants, legal battles & even near-physical violence, but they won, setting off an organizing wave. https://t.co/VfjE7tilwr
— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) January 23, 2025
Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
Statement from MA AFL-CIO President Chrissy Lynch on the Healey-Driscoll Admin’s proposed budget plan to permanently close the Pappas Rehab Hospital & Pocasset Mental Health Center, layoff 170 case managers in DMH, and hike insurance rates for 1000s of union members. #mapoli pic.twitter.com/n7f2QtZMSh
— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) January 22, 2025
Michigan State AFL-CIO:
BREAKING: the new @MI_Republicans majority just pulled the rug out from under working families. Every legislator, regardless of their party, will be held accountable for their vote to cut the pay and benefits for workers most in need.https://t.co/ivWaqBPZ1Q
— Michigan AFL-CIO ✊ (@MIAFLCIO) January 23, 2025
Minnesota AFL-CIO:
Each day that House Republicans waste playing pretend is one less day to pass a state budget that allows Minnesota to thrive and pass an infrastructure bill to create jobs and improve our communities. Contact your legislator. https://t.co/tKygKZ3X2i #mnleg #BetterInAUnion
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) January 23, 2025
Missouri AFL-CIO:
The initiative petition process gives Missourians a path to change policies when politicians don’t listen. Now lawmakers are trying to take your rights. They think that a small minority of Missourians should be able to veto any statewide proposal. We must protect majority rule! pic.twitter.com/t1RXNTRpqs
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) January 28, 2025
Nevada State AFL-CIO:
Congratulations to @SEIU1107 on their grand re-opening at their new hall! pic.twitter.com/AgS7LL8T3I
— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) January 26, 2025
New Hampshire AFL-CIO:
Our Brothers and Sisters are here today to tell their elected Representatives that “Right-to-Work” is STILL WRONG for NH!
Please help us by following the link to send a letter to your legislator today: https://t.co/QP4RyjZZTs
Thank you for your #Solidarity! ✊#NHPolitics #1u pic.twitter.com/GahXnrrHj3
— New Hampshire AFL-CIO (@NHAFLCIO) January 28, 2025
New York State AFL-CIO:
It's time to overhaul our state revenue system and create a fairer tax structure that supports all New Yorkers. Raising revenue will allow our state to provide the essential services that 20 million New Yorkers rely on every day. #ShareOurWealth pic.twitter.com/Wmft4cxCSJ
— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) January 27, 2025
Ohio AFL-CIO:
Congratulations to the workers at the Delaware County District Library who just voted #UnionYes to join @OFTunion @AFTunion and be the news #Ohio members of the @AFLCIO https://t.co/j7y01oJvZr pic.twitter.com/OJ1S1BwPBu
— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) January 27, 2025
Oregon AFL-CIO:
The Oregon AFL-CIO and all of #OregonLabor stands united against the wave of attacks by the Trump administration against immigrants.
Immigrant rights are workers’ rights—any effort to exploit and attack immigrant workers creates a race to the bottom for all of us. Until every… pic.twitter.com/U1ibfGuF27
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) January 22, 2025
Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:
Ready to kickstart a rewarding career? Becoming an apprentice is your pathway to mastering a trade, earning while you learn, and building a future with stability and growth.
🔧✨ 👉 Take the first step toward your future today! https://t.co/jDjF2SLMO0 pic.twitter.com/6wRzWy5cWW
— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) January 17, 2025
Tennessee AFL-CIO Labor Council:
The upcoming closure of Bridgestone’s LaVergne plant this summer is devastating news, especially for our USW Local 1055L brothers & sisters. They're a vital part of our union family, & we will continue to stand in solidarity with them as they navigate what lies ahead. Link Below
— Tennessee AFL-CIO (@tnaflcio) January 24, 2025
Texas AFL-CIO:
Thank you to all the #txlege staffers who attended our first Labor Lunch & Learn last week!
We are so heartened to see these staffers’ dedication to prioritizing working Texans — not billionaires — during this legislative session. pic.twitter.com/aXv2DpHNrc
— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) January 27, 2025
Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:
Reunited and it feels so good 💜 https://t.co/oXpSSShMW8
— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) January 27, 2025
West Virginia AFL-CIO:
Proud to see a great turnout today for the kickoff of the 2025 United Food Operation drive to help provide supplies and support for 12 independent food pantries in the Kanawha Valley. #wv pic.twitter.com/6iZUBoEwpd
— West Virginia AFLCIO (@WestVirginiaAFL) January 17, 2025
Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
Get ready for the spring election! Absentee ballots for spring primary start going out Tuesday https://t.co/tYmGKg8UXs via @Kenosha_News
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) January 27, 2025
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 01/27/2025 - 15:28
