Get to Know AFL-CIO's Affiliates: Operating Engineers
Next up in our series that takes a deeper look at each of our affiliates is the Operating Engineers.
Name of Union: International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE)
Mission: To serve the needs and develop the skills of a constantly expanding and varied group of construction and maintenance professionals through collective bargaining, legislative action and extensive skills training programs.
Current Leadership of Union: James T. Callahan serves as the general president of IUOE. He was first elected in 2011. Previously, he served as international vice president and business manager of IUOE Local 15 in New York. Callahan was one of many operating engineers who responded immediately on 9/11, and he worked the entire recovery effort at Ground Zero.
Brian E. Hickey serves as general secretary-treasurer. IUOE also has 14 vice presidents: Russell E. Burns, James M. Sweeney, Robert T. Heenan, Daniel J. McGraw, Daren Konopaski, Michael Gallagher, Greg Lalevee, Terrance E. McGowan, Randall G. Griffin, Douglas W. Stockwell, Ronald J. Sikorski, James T. Kunz Jr., Edward J. Curly and Charlie Singletary.
Current Number of Members: 400,000.
Members Work As: Members who are operating engineers work as heavy equipment operators, mechanics and surveyors in the construction industry. Stationary engineers work in operations and maintenance in building and industrial complexes.
Industries Represented: Private industry and in various public projects such as hospitals, nursing homes, schools and government complexes.
History: In the late 1800s, working conditions were harsh for construction and stationary workers. Low wages, no benefits and 60–90 hour workweeks were the norm. In 1896, 11 individuals met in Chicago and formed the National Union of Steam Engineers of America, the first step in the creation of IUOE.
A year later, the union admitted Canadian workers and became the International Union of Steam Engineers. After the San Francisco earthquake of 1906, operating engineers flocked to the city for rebuilding jobs. They also were a key part of digging the Panama Canal.
In 1912, the union changed its name to the International Union of Steam and Operating Engineers. As technology advanced, steam became less a part of the industry and "steam" was dropped.
During the era of the two world wars and beyond, IUOE members were a significant part of the defense effort, from the Navy Seabees, who created the bases, airfields and roads, to the federal Highway Trust program, which created thousands of jobs for operating engineers. They also were part of many other important construction projects, including San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge, Chicago’s Sears Tower (renamed Willis Tower in 2009), Toronto’s CN Tower and Sky Dome (renamed Rogers Centre), New York’s Empire State Building and Holland Tunnel, the Statue of Liberty, Vancouver’s Lions Gate Bridge, the Alaskan pipeline, the Hoover Dam and countless others.
Current Campaigns/Community Efforts: IUOE runs extensive training programs and maintains the International Training and Education Center. They also focus on recruiting women workers in apprenticeships. The International Operating Engineer publication provides information and news for working people in the industry.
Learn More: Website.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 09/09/2019 - 12:23Pathway to Progress: The March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom
History has long been portrayed as a series of "great men" taking great action to shape the world we live in. In recent decades, however, social historians have focused more on looking at history "from the bottom up," studying the vital role that working people played in our heritage. Working people built, and continue to build, the United States. In our new series, Pathway to Progress, we'll take a look at various people, places and events where working people played a key role in the progress our country has made, including those who are making history right now. Today's topic is the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom.
We recently marked the 56th anniversary of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. The full title makes it clear that the historical touchstone was about civil rights and worker rights. And the labor movement was key to the success of the march.
By any account, the march on Aug. 28, 1963, was a success. More than 250,000 people participated in what was then the largest demonstration for human rights in U.S. history. The pathway that led to the march started much earlier.
A. Philip Randolph, a leader in both the civil rights movement and a labor organizer with the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters, began pushing for a march on Washington as early as 1941. Randolph, labor activist Bayard Rustin and others nearly pulled off a march that year, but it was called off late in the organizing. From then until late 1962, Randolph got little response from civil rights leaders. Changing this would be a key to pulling the march off. He worked with the heads of the "Big Six" civil rights organizations, which included not only Randolph's Sleeping Car Porters, but also the NAACP, the National Urban League, the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, the Conference of Racial Equality and the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee.
That began to change once Randolph and Rustin got together to plan a march commemorating the centennial of the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation. In early 1963, Bull Connor became national news when he turned fire hoses and attack dogs on children and then attitudes about the march quickly changed. Rustin was to originally direct operations for the march, but when some activists balked at having a homosexual man as the face of the march, he was replaced by Randolph.
Rustin continued to organize the event, however, and leading up to the march, they faced tough challenges, including bringing together civil rights leaders, defending against attacks from segregationists, moderates who wanted a slower approach to progress and the logistics of the largest peaceful protest in the country's history.
The influence of Randolph and Rustin on the agenda of the march was obvious. Among the list of demands the marchers presented were: a massive federal jobs and training program for unemployed workers, a national minimum wage that provided for a decent standard of living, an expansion of the Fair Labor Standards Act to include all areas of labor and a federal Fair Employment Practices Act barring discrimination in government hiring at all levels.
Labor's influence on the march wasn't limited to leadership. The UAW provided much of the funding for the march. Randolph's Sleeping Car Porters helped transport thousands of demonstrators to and from the event. And many unions participated in the march, either officially or unofficially, as their members joined the cause.
One of the most important and memorable events in American history was not only a civil rights event, but from beginning to end, a demonstration on behalf of working people. We face many of the same issues in our current political climate, and the efforts that led to the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom provide us with inspiration to continue building an America where all working people can thrive.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 09/06/2019 - 12:00Tags: Labor History
Economy Gains 130,000 Jobs in August; Unemployment Steady at 3.7%
The U.S. economy gained 130,000 jobs in August, and the unemployment rate remained at 3.7%, according to figures released this morning by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
In response to the August job numbers, AFL-CIO Chief Economist William Spriggs said: "The weak numbers show the Fed did the right thing to do a course correction and lower rates this summer. But they now need to consider more cuts to keep the slow down from escalating." He also tweeted:
Difficulties for workers shows when unemployed women find it hard to find jobs and so end up more likely to quit looking than to get a job. The number unemployed more than 27 weeks increased (unemployed means looking for work, NOT drawing UI benefits) increased 77,000 @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/UZHV4q8NBD
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) September 6, 2019
And, the number who found part time work, but wanted full-time work went up 397,000. The broadest measure of labor utilization problems--U-6, which includes those working part-time but want full-time and those who are discouraged, rose from 7.0 to 7.2% in August. @AFLCIO
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) September 6, 2019
After trending down, last month the broadest measure of labor force stress--U-6--ticked up from 7.0 to 7.2. Workers are showing signs of the slowing growth rate in jobs. @AFLCIO #JobsReport pic.twitter.com/uXltA7LRmw
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) September 6, 2019
On the plus side, the share of Americans with a job continued its recovery begun in August 2011. In August the gain came from women (all racial groups) and was flat or fell slightly for men. @AFLCIO #JobsReport pic.twitter.com/rfVqMoYA9u
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) September 6, 2019
August average duration for unemployment edged up after dipping, now up to 22.1 weeks. Another sign of weakness in finding jobs. @AFLCIO #JobsReport pic.twitter.com/DeVrxnUoUD
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) September 6, 2019Last month's biggest job gains were in federal government (28,000), health care (24,000), financial activities (15,000), professional and business services (37,000) and social assistance (13,000). Employment declined in mining (-6,000) and retail trade (-11,000). Employment in other major industries, including construction, manufacturing, transportation and warehousing, and leisure and hospitality, showed little change.
Among the major worker groups, the unemployment rates for teenagers (12.6%), blacks (5.5%), Hispanics (4.2%), adult men (3.4%), whites (3.4%), adult women (3.3%) and Asians (2.8%) showed little or no change in August.
The number of long-term unemployed (those jobless for 27 weeks or more) rose in August and accounted for 20.6% of the unemployed.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 09/06/2019 - 11:31Tags: Jobs Report
Responding to Dorian: 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 Association:
We asked Equity Members around the country to let us know what it means to be #EquityStrong as we approach #LaborDay.
Let us know what #EquityStrong means to you! pic.twitter.com/sBWVVlq7T7
AFGE:
Why we're suing the Federal Service Impasses Panel→ #1u https://t.co/4oKoYRMSEW pic.twitter.com/P18TAVyH2U
— AFGE (@AFGENational) September 5, 2019AFSCME:
After 450 EMS workers in Riverside won a groundbreaking four-year contract, nearly 80 EMS workers in nearby Imperial County also took action, voting overwhelmingly to join together through AFSCME Local 4911. https://t.co/nAuHnDup8I
— AFSCME (@AFSCME) September 4, 2019AFT:
An enlightening conversation with Conley’s full time nurse, Sandy. Because of counselor shortages and general staff shortages, Sandy and nurses like her end up being an all around support for both students and staff. pic.twitter.com/mJkGpbx4ms
— AFT (@AFTunion) September 5, 2019Air Line Pilots:
As Category 5 Hurricane #Dorian slowly moves toward the southeastern United States, ALPA would like to remind members of several Association resources available to you: jumpseating, Pilot Peer Support, and Pilots for Pilots. https://t.co/k0MoubmQoC pic.twitter.com/dAaFo0LDnI
— ALPA (@WeAreALPA) September 1, 2019Alliance for Retired Americans:
Research shows that Medicaid expansion is beneficial for patients and communities: https://t.co/bQb4MFbuj8 #MedicaidMatters #SaveMedicaid pic.twitter.com/bw7Zqwnd63
— Alliance Retirees (@ActiveRetirees) September 4, 2019Amalgamated Transit Union:
Driver Shortages Causing #Transit Delays Nationwide https://t.co/qVij4stPww #publictransit #p2
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) August 28, 2019American Federation of Musicians:
There is no America without Labor. Happy #LaborDay2019 #1u #UnionMusicians ?????????? pic.twitter.com/zK0PYxo3II
— AFM (@The_AFM) September 2, 2019American Postal Workers Union:
On the first day of Interest Arbitration, APWU discussed how postal workers are mission-dedicated, skilled, public servants deserving of fair pay and benefits, job security, and a safe workplace, free of harassment. #APWUnited https://t.co/Q2ZsiF9uPL
— APWU National (@APWUnational) September 4, 2019Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance:
Trump is attacking the #2020Census to get at communities of color.
It's up to us--AAPIs, advocates, organizers--to fight back and get everyone counted.
We're taking on this challenge in a big way. APALA is fighting to #CountUsIn2020! https://t.co/Pp0FmnO57D pic.twitter.com/S7lgr9WVO8
Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:
South Carolina and North Carolina coastal areas are likely to catch the brunt of #Dorian’s impact on the Southeast late Wednesday through Thursday.
AFA EAP is always available at 800-424-2406.
Tips for staying safe before and after a hurricane: https://t.co/kSsNkw6jHI
BCTGM:
“Donald Trump has lied, lied, and lied.”
WATCH: This EXCELLENT new documentary featuring GM Lordstown workers shows how President Trump’s broken promises have hurt Ohio communities. Just WOW.https://t.co/57iPH8H0lE #PromisesBroken
Boilermakers:
Congratulations to Local 92, Bloomington, California on being the presented with the 2019 Charles W. Jones Award, which honors the #Boilermaker local lodge demonstrating the highest use of specified @Most_Programs programs during the preceding year. pic.twitter.com/CtUQWDVDVP
— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) August 27, 2019Bricklayers:
"The construction industry already has a robust, privately funded, successful #apprenticeship program with excellent standards and government oversight. #IRAPs have no place in the #construction industry. " - .@TheIronworkers General President Eric Dean on #IRAPs https://t.co/cEXpwHgSbg
— Bricklayers Union (@IUBAC) September 3, 2019Broadcast Employees and Technicians:
#LaborDay2019 #NABETSTRONG https://t.co/lJhYUcbzO1
— NABET-CWA (@NABETCWA) September 3, 2019California School Employees Association:
One of the recipients of our Member of the Year award was Debbie Narvaes, a Paraeducator II from Berryessa Chapter 364! pic.twitter.com/nizVf8uIRV
— CSEA (@CSEA_Now) September 4, 2019Coalition of Black Trade Unionists:
Happy CBTU Labor Day! #LaborDay2019 pic.twitter.com/6HI3YaEnMs
— CBTU (@CBTU72) September 2, 2019Coalition of Labor Union Women:
Today marks the 99th anniversary of the certification of the 19th Amendment, which granted many American women the right to vote. Women's Equality Day honors this anniversary and gives us an opportunity to learn from our history to continue to make progress in the present. pic.twitter.com/Qb18m0bD82
— CLUW National (@CLUWNational) August 26, 2019Communications Workers of America:
It’s been 9 yrs since the Supreme Court opened the floodgates for unlimited corporate money to pour into our politics and corrupt our democracy.
It’s time to overturn #CitizensUnited with a #28thAmendment to the U.S. Constitution.
Call & get your rep on board: 1-866-937-7983 pic.twitter.com/vMueBV8Sgd
Department for Professional Employees:
"And a look at recent events offers evidence that a shift toward a more union-friendly future is afoot—particularly in white-collar professions." #1u https://t.co/OUYOyeFK63
— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) September 3, 2019Electrical Workers:
The deadline to enter the 2019 #IBEW photo contest is Oct. 1. Enter today! https://t.co/GHnTpDQP1F
— IBEW (@IBEW) September 4, 2019Farm Labor Organizing Committee:
Glad to have the young and good reporter @jaden_reports catch us live and in action! https://t.co/YYirMnl9jN
— Farm Labor Organizing Committee (@SupportFLOC) September 4, 2019Fire Fighters:
North Texas #firefighters offer support, counseling to those who responded to Odessa mass shooting https://t.co/XeFkGUX3J9
— IAFF (@IAFFNewsDesk) September 5, 2019Heat and Frost Insulators:
Everyone is given the same opportunity here. You start by getting trained and certified as an insulator and then you dream big! Our current members see and have experience and advancement: https://t.co/GZIorwPcX8
— Insulators Union (@InsulatorsUnion) September 4, 2019International Labor Communications Association:
ICYMI by @ProfPeterCole h/t @PortsideOrg #LaborDay #LaborDay2019 #1u https://t.co/JZ88fdt1hr
— Labor Communications (@ILCAonline) September 3, 2019Ironworkers:
"I have a close family member who works in union construction after years employed by a nonunion contractor. It wasn’t until he joined a union that his quality of life improved," says @RichardKorman @ENRnews #ENR #IRAPs #LaborDayWeekend #LaborDay2019https://t.co/vxS5vsTzH0
— Ironworkers. (@TheIronworkers) September 2, 2019Jobs with Justice:
Far too many working people don't receive paid time off for any reason. The U.S. is one of the only countries where paid time off isn't law. https://t.co/Rk9SzY3meC
— Jobs With Justice (@jwjnational) September 5, 2019Laborers:
Union built. Union strong. Union proud. #LIUNA pic.twitter.com/qbUCerdXQQ
— LIUNA (@LIUNA) September 5, 2019LCLAA:
Latinas make 53 cents to every dollar earned by white non-Hispanic men, Latinas who have joined a union can earn $264 more per week as opposed to their non-union counterparts. Demanding fair wages is a labor issue! #1u #LaborDay pic.twitter.com/9wwMsmDPM0
— LCLAA (@LCLAA) September 2, 2019Longshoremen:
ILA Longhshore Workers Move Water Distribution To Newark's Good Neighbor Church on Friday. NYSA & ULLICO offer help https://t.co/XyfpBTWm5F @Nardijo @NYSANEWS @starledger @UllicoInc @TheILAmobileApp @SenatorMenendez @GovMurphy @NJAFLCIO pic.twitter.com/YTU8DXGJX5
— Int'l LongshoreAssoc (@ILAUnion) August 30, 2019Machinists:
New state legislation that goes into effect later this month makes an estimated 2,000 loggers in Maine eligible to join the @MachinistsUnionhttps://t.co/x0FKN2OzyF
— Machinists Union (@MachinistsUnion) September 5, 2019Metal Trades:
Whenever the rate of unionization in America has risen in the past hundred years, the top one per cent’s portion of the national income has tended to shrink. https://t.co/VpDIXZ3hwS
— Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) August 19, 2019Mine Workers:
"We're not politicians, we're coal miners." NBC News story about @mineworkers fight in Congress to preserve retirees' pensions. #TheyEarnedIt #savepensionssavelives #1u https://t.co/qMOuse3FtN
— United Mine Workers (@MineWorkers) August 21, 2019Musical Artists:
As our members across the country prepare for a well-earned Labor Day respite, please visit our website for a special Labor Day Message from AGMA President Ray Menard.#WeAreAGMA #UnionStronghttps://t.co/oQ0F9wUiW1
— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) August 29, 2019National Air Traffic Controllers Association:
Former Alaska Governor Bill Sheffield recently hosted an event for@repdonyoung. "I thanked Congressman Young for co-sponsoring H.R. 1108 and for his continued support of the National Airspace System," said Alaskan Region Legislative Rep and Merrill Field ATCT member Dawn McFalls. pic.twitter.com/hCdtU4hLMr
— NATCA (@NATCA) September 5, 2019National Association of Letter Carriers:
While delivering his route, our member Robert Haun saw his elderly customer lying in a street. Without wasting any time, Robert -- a former military CPR trainer -- administered CPR and revived the man. Paramedics arrived and took control of the situation. #heroes #postalproud #1u pic.twitter.com/h3KJUdlNtG
— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) September 4, 2019National Domestic Workers Alliance:
Thrilled to see NDWA's @monicaramirezdc recognized for her leadership in fighting to eliminate gender-based violence and promote gender equity -- well deserved! #HHA19 #HHM https://t.co/ZIErIEZued
— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) September 4, 2019National Nurses United:
These caring and courageous #nurses are part of a national deployment with NNU's RN Response Network to provide assistance to communities impacted by #HurricaneDorian.
A heartfelt thank you to all the RNs and other first responders on the ground providing care! https://t.co/cgyz86VQoS
National Taxi Workers Alliance:
Check out pix of NYTWA member Golam Talukder in this Labor Day special - They Make the City Run https://t.co/OKbWzEUIiY via @thechiefleader
— NY Taxi Workers (@NYTWA) September 2, 2019News Guild:
It's unanimous! Everybody loves @AzRepublicGuild's logo, which was designed by Steve Benson, the Pulitzer Prize winning cartoonist who was laid off by @azcentral and @Gannett in January. pic.twitter.com/A3Z6h599I8
— NewsGuild (@news_guild) September 4, 2019NFL Players Association:
We spent the day in the Windy City with @SportTechie talking about how to accelerate change in athlete health, wealth, and performance.
Becca Roux from @USWNTPlayers & Terri Jackson from @TheWNBPA joined us along with several former players to share their expertise. ? pic.twitter.com/Log027xTEG
North America's Building Trades Unions:
This summer, business officials, labor leaders, and nearly 325,000 Americans were heard loud and clear, submitting a @USDOL record of public comments saying NO to #IRAPs in construction.
NABTU President @SeanMcGarvey_ issued the following statement:https://t.co/lgt571UErV pic.twitter.com/SKhfWfJwSk
Office and Professional Employees:
“The public is not aware of the unions because the media doesn’t cover them,” said LaKecha Strickland, a bus driver and member of the Chattanooga Area Labor Council. “So when unions try to organize in Chattanooga, they are seen as outsiders.” #1u @tnaflcio https://t.co/03WKr3orAv
— OPEIU (@OPEIU) September 4, 2019Painters and Allied Trades:
Now premiering on Facebook: "What it Takes to Organize," the first episode from our new docu-series.
This #LaborDay, we're proud to present this original docu-series on Labor’s fight for all workers. Tune in every Monday for a new episode!https://t.co/0GvCGJydN3 pic.twitter.com/Fow4RM4Rwe
Plasterers and Cement Masons:
“As our network of roads and bridges have continued to crumble, the situation has degraded from an occasional personal inconvenience to a serious barrier to national economic growth and prosperity.” #infrastructureNOW https://t.co/Mq7m7Q0Cad
— OPCMIA International (@opcmiaintl) September 3, 2019Professional Aviation Safety Specialists:
Dedicated men & women at Fed Aviation Admin represented by PASS are ready to protect the nation's air traffic control system as #Dorian heads for US. We ask all PASS members to heed local authorities to stay safe! @FAANews @AFLCIO #publicservice #unionsolidarity #aviationsafety https://t.co/ZwClyCDwbB
— PASS (@PASSNational) September 3, 2019Professional and Technical Engineers:
#LaborDay is about celebrating the things we’ve won by fighting toghether, but it’s also about looking to the future. And #Millennials organizing their #unions is the future. Here’s a
great piece by @NonprofitUnion member @KT_Barrows about why she organized!! https://t.co/ERp1KNKXw3
Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Workers:
"American corporations need to lead the way by ending their half-century war against unions and their own workers. That’s how true change will be achieved."
Read RWDSU President @sappelbaum's latest column in @NYAmNews. https://t.co/0HSDaPfvMk pic.twitter.com/hLkM1A1ude
SAG-AFTRA:
SAG-AFTRA and Arise Chicago Hold Press Conference Outside SBS' Chicago Radio Station La Ley https://t.co/IOxwH5RbWB pic.twitter.com/rX813fKB2p
— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) September 4, 2019School Administrators:
Why is @NYCSchools dragging their feet on a fair contract for school leaders. Great leaders deserve the RESPECT they have earned. @NYCMayor you talk big about schools and children, now is time to deliver to go with the rhetoric? @FollowCSA @CannizzaroCSA are ready and willing.
— AFSA Leadership (@AFSAUnion) August 29, 2019Solidarity Center:
Two #Bangladesh garment factories were closed after workers protested the sudden firing of 58 coworkers. Workers say they also were beaten by attackers hired by employers. @cleanclothes @AsiaFloorWage06 @GLJhub https://t.co/CqjhsY5Fxs
— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) September 5, 2019Theatrical Stage Employees:
Congratulations to all our talented cinematographers who were nominated for a Creative Arts Emmy! pic.twitter.com/WaIwmC7zZm
— IATSE (@IATSE) September 4, 2019Transport Workers:
We are thrilled to be working with @_drivers_united on this organizing effort! @AFLCIO #solidarity #1u https://t.co/zh1bIWHc2Z
— TWU (@transportworker) September 4, 2019Transportation Trades Department:
Railroads are neglecting #railsafety in search of profit, and they seem to have a willing partner in the Federal Railroad Administration. If we want a safe freight rail network that supports good jobs, Congress & the FRA must change course.
— Transp. Trades Dept. (@TTDAFLCIO) September 4, 2019UAW:
If you’re interested in catching up on the ins-and-outs of the union movement, here’s a reading list to get you started: https://t.co/OWcnwOuPLo
— UAW (@UAW) September 4, 2019UFCW:
Welcome to our union family! The security guards voted unanimously in favor of joining @UFCWCanada in order to gain better wages, benefits, and job security. They join many other Commissionaires employees who have chosen UFCW 333 as their voice at work. https://t.co/IilB4zoxYf
— UFCW (@UFCW) September 4, 2019Union Label and Service Trades:
Not only do hardworking men and women make the leather for every NFL football, but also the leather for world famous Red Wing boots and shoes! Check out the handiwork of these UFCW 1189 members ?? #NationalLeathercraftDay pic.twitter.com/U5LeV57ApF
— Union Label Dept. (@ULSTD_AFLCIO) August 15, 2019Union Veterans Council:
How well is the American economy working for working people?
There are over 1.3 Million Veterans that work and earn less than $31,000 per year. This economy is not working very well for them #fightfor15 #onejobshouldbeenough #1u https://t.co/bmmboC8GZP
UNITE HERE:
Working women move the country forward.#Councilwoman #unitehere #1u@CouncilwomanDoc pic.twitter.com/7018qh4aEX
— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) September 4, 2019United Steelworkers:
Auto union workers overwhelmingly vote to authorize strikes at GM, Ford, Fiat Chrysler https://t.co/vqDTbNbkiP
— United Steelworkers (@steelworkers) September 4, 2019United Students Against Sweatshops:
After years of worker organizing in Lesotho an enforceable brand agreement (with teeth!) has been reached to eliminate gender-based violence for more than 10,000 workers: https://t.co/m4N0SXyWs3
— USAS (@USAS) August 27, 2019Utility Workers:
#HurricaneDorian #Hurricane #Dorian pic.twitter.com/LAkw2RCAdH
— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) September 4, 2019Working America:
GREAT NEWS: As of today, 59,000+ NC state employees now have paid parental leave – join @MomsRising in thanking @NC_Governor: https://t.co/apLpJoVo45
This is a crucial labor rights win that will be profoundly meaningful for so many NC families #ncpol #paidleavenc
Writers Guild of America, East:
We are proud to be your union and serve our more than 5,000 members working in film, television, news and new media. We are the Writers Guild of America, East. #1u #LaborDay2019
— Writers Guild of America, East (@WGAEast) September 2, 2019 Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 09/05/2019 - 10:33‘State of the Unions’ Podcast: Humble Courage and 90210
On the latest episode of “State of the Unions,” podcast co-hosts Julie Greene and Tim Schlittner talk to SAG-AFTRA President Gabrielle Carteris about the future of work, sexual harassment and her journey from young actor to labor leader.
Listen to our previous episodes:
- North America's Building Trades Unions (NABTU) Chief of Staff Mike Monroe exploring the Department of Labor proposal that would undermine world-class apprenticeships in the construction industry.
- A discussion with Texas AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Montserrat Garibay (Education Austin/AFT-NEA) in the wake of the deadly mass shooting in El Paso, Texas.
- UNITE HERE President D. Taylor talking about the activism of airline catering workers and the current moment for union organizing.
- Highlights of AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka's (UMWA) town halls in Pittsburgh, Cleveland and Detroit, where he discussed NAFTA and trade.
- AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Liz Shuler (IBEW) talks about pushing the labor movement to be bold, take risks and not be afraid of failure.
- Pride At Work Executive Director Jerame Davis discusses the progress made by LGBTQ working people over the past quarter-century and the work still left to be done.
- Union organizer Andy Levin goes to Washington to make a difference for working people.
“State of the Unions” is available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher and anywhere else you can find podcasts.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 09/04/2019 - 10:12Say No to IRAPs: In the States Roundup
It's time once again to take a look at the ways working people are making progress in the states. Click on any of the links to follow the state federations on Twitter.
Alaska AFL-CIO:
You still have a few days to take action and say NO to #IRAPs to protect high-quality apprenticeships. Learn more by listening to the episode linked below. #1u https://t.co/ys9onsDnZ5
— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) August 23, 2019California Labor Federation:
Uber, Lyft, Chase, Walmart...all of these massive corporations cheat workers & consumers by hiding clauses in the fine print that allow them to escape accountability when they defraud us. CA can lead to put a stop to this. #YesonAB51 #EndForcedArbitration @LorenaSGonzalez https://t.co/WHHwdRCASJ
— California Labor Federation (@CaliforniaLabor) August 26, 2019Connecticut AFL-CIO:
Yesterday, we lost a long time union brother, Dan Nacin, a letter carrier, who died on the job in the Enfield/Longmeadow area. He was a hard worker & dedicated to the labor movement. He will be greatly missed. @NALC_National https://t.co/r0vOupYcCZ
— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) August 23, 2019Florida AFL-CIO:
"@rtemplin, a lobbyist for Florida AFL-CIO, a federation of labor unions around the state, said the Job Growth grant fund amounts to the same 'corporate welfare' that supporters claimed they were eliminating."https://t.co/MMQDPmHCOS
— Florida AFL-CIO (@FLAFLCIO) August 22, 2019Indiana State AFL-CIO:
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??♀️?????????????????♀️?????✈️
“If we work and stand together, achieving gender equality is possible.”
- AFL-CIO Secretary Treasurer @lizshuler
??♀️?????????????????♀️?????✈️
??♀️?????????????????♀️?????✈️#WomensEqualityDay
Iowa Federation of Labor:
Labor Leader https://t.co/Ej6OMqjP2L
— Iowa AFL-CIO (@IowaAFLCIO) August 26, 2019Maine AFL-CIO:
This is appalling! Another reason why we need #MedicareForAll #mepolitics https://t.co/IOSsSUhMwB
— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) August 22, 2019Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
As I See It: Unions key to driving Worcester's resurgencehttps://t.co/pRAcCcDV2b @frankmetrobtc
— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) August 19, 2019Metro Washington (D.C.) Council AFL-CIO:
Maryland state workers demand better pay, more staffing https://t.co/BWc9HjuXzL
— MetroDCLaborCouncil (@DCLabor) August 23, 2019Michigan AFL-CIO:
#solidarity #1u pic.twitter.com/P2ixsn48t5
— Michigan AFL-CIO (@MIAFLCIO) August 22, 2019Minnesota AFL-CIO:
A Feast for Summer’s Last Hurrah https://t.co/NoJlv56go3 Ready for OUR weekend? #1u #LaborDay pic.twitter.com/wzDKkERwZf
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) August 26, 2019Missouri AFL-CIO:
On September 1, 2019 join Organized Labor at the ballpark! The Cardinals are going to acknowledge Organized Labor during the game and also donate a portion of each ticket purchase to $5 For The Fight.
For more info , click on this link,https://t.co/zYko2dI7Zq pic.twitter.com/0BQSMxigQr
Montana AFL-CIO:
Not surprising to see that @GregForMontana, who was found guilty of committing violence in the workplace, has not cosponsored #HR1309 which would protect frontline workers from similar acts of aggression.
— Montana AFL-CIO (@MTaflcio) August 20, 2019Nevada State AFL-CIO:
Thank you President @RichardTrumka for your leadership & for taking time to meet with NV unions today! pic.twitter.com/wwFZ6FcEFT
— Nevada State AFL-CIO (@NVAFLCIO) August 13, 2019New Mexico Federation of Labor:
99 years ago?
Almost 100 years of fighting to have equality, and we still have so far to go to make 1919 women’s dreams a reality.#WomensEqualityDay is needed to remind us all of what still needs to be done.@AFLCIO @AFTunion @UFCW https://t.co/aYjexYFf2Z
New York State AFL-CIO:
#UnionStrong Podcast Episode 17: Call For Transparency On Campus Foundations - SUNY’s 30 campus-related foundations have a lot of money – millions. Where does it come from, where is it going & how is it being used? With @uupinfo President Dr. Fred Kowal
https://t.co/uhqPULawqF
North Carolina State AFL-CIO:
20,000 @ATT workers in the Southeast just walked off the job because of AT&T’s unfair labor practices.
RT to show your support. ✊ #ATTUnfair #1u pic.twitter.com/ZrJO0ZSDTn
Ohio AFL-CIO:
Paul knows what #Solidarity means! Thanks!!
✊?✊?✊?✊?✊? https://t.co/MDeAg7ZOBx
Oregon AFL-CIO:
Threatening your employees if they want to join in union isn't just a jerk move from a bad boss, it's against the law. Come on, @barstoolsports https://t.co/XqrtTaUYnA
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) August 26, 2019Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:
Our retired @MineWorkers we are moving upward because of the sacrifices made by women and men like Fannie Sellins. pic.twitter.com/UuiW82g2SR
— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) August 26, 2019Rhode Island AFL-CIO:
Heat takes down more UPS workers during hottest summer ever https://t.co/V22bpB6tax via @nbcnews #1U #UPS
— Rhode Island AFL-CIO (@riaflcio) August 23, 2019Texas AFL-CIO:
“I feel like we’re on the cusp of achieving some measurable political power that we haven’t had in decades." - @RickTXAFLCIO via @LaborPressNY https://t.co/xpAWSJx4Dr
— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) August 26, 2019Virginia AFL-CIO:
The $15 minimum wage bill has all but died in the Senate...Republicans in the Senate won’t consider any wage increases. Read about it here: https://t.co/77XWDhFIV0 #FightFor15 #RaiseTheWage #ProtectWorkingFamiles #TheFightIsntOver pic.twitter.com/MU3OZ3zmiX
— Virginia AFL-CIO (@Virginia_AFLCIO) August 23, 2019Washington State Labor Council:
Happy #WomensEqualityDay! https://t.co/5O8iSDpzQq
— WA State AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) August 26, 2019West Virginia AFL-CIO:
It is with great sadness that we note the passing of Jack McComas, Secretary-Treasurer for the WV AFL-CIO from 1977-1997. We will miss our union brother, who has always been and will forever remain, a pillar of the WV labor movement. https://t.co/14nBc9kSvt
— West Virginia AFLCIO (@WestVirginiaAFL) August 21, 2019Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
Workers at AT&T Southeast to Strike Over Unfair Labor Practices, https://t.co/HCoVfz1DBS
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) August 26, 2019 Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 09/04/2019 - 08:21Stand Up and Be Recognized: Worker Wins
Our latest roundup of worker wins begins with actors and actresses winning new contracts and includes numerous examples of working people organizing, bargaining and mobilizing for a better life.
SAG-AFTRA Signs New Agreement with Ad Agency BBH After 10-Month Strike: After a strike that lasted 10 months, SAG-AFTRA has negotiated a new contract with advertising agency BBH. The deal means BBH will provide union wages, pension and health contributions to all actors. David White, national executive director for SAG-AFTRA, said: "We are pleased to welcome BBH back to the SAG-AFTRA family. The tremendous solidarity of our entire membership is to thank for in helping bring BBH back to the table. Our members look forward to once again collaborating with BBH and providing their professional talent to create innovative, memorable and award-winning commercials."
Netflix and SAG-AFTRA Reach Deal with Significant Improvements for Actors: Netflix and SAG-AFTRA have reached a new three-year contract that includes several major improvements for actors that appear in the streaming service's movies and shows. The new agreement treats voice-over and motion capture the same as other actors. The contract also includes better residuals from theatrical releases, creates new protections against harassment, sets new overtime rules for stunt performers and other gains.
Workers at Spot Coffee in Buffalo Become Among the First Baristas to Unionize: Baristas at Spott Coffee in Buffalo have voted to form a union, making them among the first baristas in the country to seek to organize a union. Jaz Brisack, the lead organizer for Workers United, which helped organize the campaign, said: "It's really a relatively new thing to organize baristas, so this is a very groundbreaking campaign and it's really significant. 'I think that it will empower people to realize what's possible. Other places will say, 'If the Spot workers can do it, why can't we?'"
San Diego Unified School District Employees Join AFSA: Principals, vice principals, school police supervisors, operations managers, education, food and transportation supervisors voted to join the American Federation of School Administrators (AFSA). AFSA President Ernest Logan said: "This is a new day for the San Diego Unified School District. The [Administration Association of San Diego City Schools] affiliation is a milestone for the union that will give a stronger voice—locally, statewide and nationally—to school leaders in San Diego Unified. This new power will enhance their ability to deliver a better education to the children of this community."
NLRB Finds Firings of Five IAM Members at Boeing in South Carolina Unjust: A group of flight line inspectors and technicians voted overwhelmingly to be represented by the Machinists (IAM) in 2018, but the company has fought back against the organizing campaign. A National Labor Relations Board regional director found that the firings of five employees at the 787 Dreamliner facility in North Charleston were unlawful acts of retaliation against union supporters. IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr. said: "This ruling is a landmark first step to victory for workers at Boeing South Carolina. Boeing has continuously and systematically ignored the law and trampled on the rights of its own employees in South Carolina. We call on Boeing to immediately reinstate our members, sit down now to negotiate a contract with its Flight Line employees, end its scorched-earth anti-union campaign and get back to the business of working with the IAM and our members to build aircraft. Now is not the time for Boeing to be abusing its safety rules to harass and fire experienced and skilled workers who are critical to the safety of Boeing airplanes."
Machinists Reach Deal with General Electric to Avoid Strike: More than 1,250 IAM members in Ohio and Wisconsin will not be going on strike after a new contract with General Electric was agreed to. President Martinez said: "Our negotiating committee worked tirelessly to secure a tentative agreement that reflects the importance of our members' role in making GE the company it is today. The voices of our membership have been heard in every step of this process."
Martha's Vineyard Bus Drivers Win First Contract After Strike: Bus drivers represented by Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) won their first-ever contract after a monthlong strike during tourist season. The drivers are contracted with Transit Connection to work for the Vineyard Transit Authority. The new contract provides pay increases and seniority protections. Driver Richard Townes said: "This is a historical day for VTA drivers and a great day for the island. We can now better provide for our families, our jobs are more secure, and we can get back to safely transporting our riders, friends and allies, whose support on the picket lines and year-round was critical in achieving this fair contract."
ACLU of Maryland Staff Join OPEIU: Staffers at the American Civil Liberties Union of Maryland voted for representation by Office and Professional Employees (OPEIU) Local 2. Justin Nalley, an education policy analyst, said: "We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to negotiate a workplace that is fair and equitable for all staff. The staff of the ACLU of Maryland take exercising our rights as employees as seriously as the work we produce on behalf of our clients, Maryland residents and the broader ACLU of Maryland family. We hope the ACLU of Maryland will hold itself to the same values we use to fight for our civil liberties every day and apply those values to our internal workplace reform. While it is unfortunate the unionization process was met with increased distrust on the management side and has taken nearly half a year after asking for voluntary recognition, we expect the contract negotiation to be more efficient and collaborative as we all share the same goals."
BuzzFeed Voluntarily Recognizes Employee Union After Walkout: After months of negotiations and a walkout, BuzzFeed has finally agreed to voluntarily recognize the union employees have fought for. The employees walked off the job in order to gain union recognition and improvements to management, pay inequality and job security. In a release, the union said: "We’re excited to share that we have reached a voluntary recognition agreement with BuzzFeed. On Tuesday, a third party will conduct a card-check. Once that’s completed, our union will be certified. And we can’t wait to celebrate our victory once it’s official!”
Committee to Protect Journalists Staff Join Writers Guild of America, East: After more than 90% of the staff signed union authorization cards, the staff at the Committee to Protect Journalists have joined the Writers Guild of America, East (WGAE). Natalie Southwick, who works as the program coordinator for Central and South America for CPJ, said: "We’ve grown a lot as an organization over the last four to five years, and that means that practices that were in place when our organization was half this big are no longer necessarily the ones that make sense for our current size and goals. CPJ’s growth has also made it more difficult to maintain consistency across the organization in terms of opportunities, policies and accountability. We wanted to make sure we were taking proactive steps to ensure this is a positive workplace for everyone as we continue to grow."
California Grocery Store Workers Secure Contract: United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 8-Golden State has negotiated a new contract with Safeway and Vons. About the deal, UFCW 8-Golden State President Jacques Loveall said: "At the bargaining table we were able to build on the key achievements of decades of union solidarity. This contract is one of our best ever, a big ‘win’ for union members."
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 08/27/2019 - 10:44Unambiguously Pro-Worker: 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.
Presidential Candidates Warned: They Must be 'Unambiguously Pro-Worker' to Earn Union Leader's Endorsement: "The national leader that represents nearly 12.5 million union workers says the two dozen candidates running for president must be 'unambiguously pro-worker and pro-union' to earn the organization's endorsement. 'The path to the nomination and the White House runs through the labor movement,' Richard Trumka, president of the AFL-CIO, a federation of 55 national and international unions, said Wednesday via video-conference to the Iowa Federation of Labor AFL-CIO's annual convention. Trumka said the organization is looking for someone who lives and breathes unions, puts workers first every time—not just in front of a union audience—and has 'more than platitudes' on growing the labor movement."
Save Our Apprenticeships: 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."
Union Veterans Fight for Texas Catering Workers: "On Tuesday morning, as union veteran Sam Tijerina drove from Pasadena, Texas, to Dallas, he had a lot on his mind. His thoughts wandered as he passed mile markers and towns—he thought about his young family at home and the life that having a union job has provided them. 'A union card has allowed me to live with dignity,' he said."
Free At Last! Labor Podcast and Radio Roundup: "In addition to the AFL-CIO's own 'State of the Unions,' there are a lot of other podcasts out there that have their own approach to discussing labor issues and the rights of working people. Here are the latest podcasts from across the labor movement in the United States."
‘State of the Unions’ Podcast: Save Our Apprenticeships: "On the latest episode of 'State of the Unions,' podcast co-host Tim Schlittner talks to North America's Building Trades Unions (NABTU) Chief of Staff Mike Monroe about a Department of Labor proposal that would undermine world-class apprenticeships in the construction industry."
Lesotho Plan Has All Elements to End Gender-Based Violence at Work: "A new worker-centered, precedent-setting program will comprehensively address the rampant gender-based violence and harassment (GBVH) denying thousands of women garment workers a safe and dignified workplace in Lesotho."
Ahead of Election Season, New Jersey State AFL-CIO’s Labor Candidates School Grooms New Crop of Office-Seeking Union Members: "It was a monumental weekend for 28 union members who graduated from the New Jersey State AFL-CIO’s 23rd Annual Labor Candidates School on Sunday."
AFL-CIO International Affairs Committee's Response to Israel's Denial of Entry to Reps. Omar and Tlaib: "The AFL-CIO International Affairs Committee issued the following response to the government of Israel’s decision to deny entry to Reps. Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib."
Meet the 2019 NYC Labor Day Parade Grand Marshal: Elizabeth Shuler: "As a graduate of the University of Oregon with a degree in journalism, Elizabeth (Liz) Shuler, like many young people today, pieced together part-time jobs, lived at home and struggled to find decent work in the early 1990s. Experiencing uncertainty in the economy made her realize that every job is an opportunity to stand up for the underdog. Today, as secretary-treasurer of the AFL-CIO, the second-highest position in the labor movement, Shuler serves as the chief financial officer of the federation and oversees operations. Shuler is the first woman elected as the federation’s secretary-treasurer, holding office since 2009."
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 08/26/2019 - 12:00Get to Know AFL-CIO's Affiliates: Elevator Constructors
Next up in our series that takes a deeper look at each of our affiliates is the Elevator Constructors.
Name of Union: International Union of Elevator Constructors (IUEC)
Mission: To promote and protect the interests of elevator constructors, with a focus on dignity, skills and the well-being of members.
Current Leadership of Union: Frank J. Christensen serves as general president, with James K. Bender II serving as assistant general president and Larry J. McGann as general secretary-treasurer.
Current Number of Members: 29,000.
Members Work As: Elevator constructors.
Industries Represented: Construction sites across industries throughout the United States and Canada.
History: On July 15, 1901, 11 men met at the Griswold Hotel in Pittsburgh. They were all elevator constructors in the early days of that field of work and they came from several cities. They drafted bylaws and a constitution, elected officers and formed the National Union of Elevator Constructors, which would later become the IUEC.
They applied for a charter and membership in the National Building Trades Council of the American Federation of Labor and were approved. The total expense of the founding convention was $13.90 and the whole process, from the launch of the convention to approval from the AFL, took three days. The elevator constructors knew what they wanted to achieve and had a pretty good idea of how to get it done.
By 1903, the union had expanded into Canada and had become the International Union of Elevator Constructors. The growth of skyscrapers necessarily led to the growth of the elevator construction industry. Advancing technology created a need for qualified and well-trained constructors, and the new union helped establish its members as the best in the world.
Early meetings with manufacturers and the building trades led to a letter of mutual agreement that stated that only IUEC would construct elevators. The AFL granted IUEC's charter not long after. While changes in labor law and jurisdictional disputes would present challenges for IUEC, the union fought through them to continue serving the best interests of its members and the industry. In 2001, IUEC celebrated its 100th anniversary and pledged to continue the founders' commitment to the dignity, skills and well-being of its members.
Current Campaigns/Community Efforts: IUEC built a member memorial at its headquarters in Columbia, Maryland, and you can purchase a brick to help remember those who lost their lives in the trade. The National Elevator Constructors Political Action Committee works to ensure the industry's working people are represented in the lawmaking process. IUEC issues regular safety alerts and maintains contact with members through IUEC Connect and the IUEC app, which is available on Android and iOS.
Learn More: Website, Twitter, YouTube.
Check out our previous profiles.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 08/26/2019 - 10:00Save Our Apprenticeships: 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 Association:
Mark your calendar - the Pittsburgh Liaison Committee wants to see you on Labor Day! March with Actors' Equity Association at the second largest Labor Day Parade in the country.
RSVP in the Member Portal - https://t.co/OnyJV3PfPm pic.twitter.com/2tFpDx3Phg
AFGE:
It’s hard to imagine @USDA management finding more ways to demoralize the workers at these two agencies, yet they continue to top themselves at every turn. #1u via @GovExec https://t.co/CD4N22lpdi
— AFGE (@AFGENational) August 21, 2019AFSCME:
One of the most important, most difficult jobs in America shouldn’t be one of the least-valued and lowest-paying. That’s why AFSCME home care workers continue to organize and mobilize, fighting for their rights and freedoms at the state and national level. https://t.co/DEfQNHepWG
— AFSCME (@AFSCME) August 21, 2019AFT:
150,000+ AFT members in Title I schools use @FirstBook for school supplies, multi-cultural books, books that build social & emotional learning, & take-home books. Some affiliates in low-income communities provide toiletries & care closets for their communities too! https://t.co/0GodNCsHmc
— AFT (@AFTunion) August 22, 2019Air Line Pilots:
A must read! Delta Pilot Transforms B-747 Engine into Automotive Sensation; Promotes Charities and the Profession with One-of-a-Kind Creation: https://t.co/5rvYfArHRn pic.twitter.com/eTHPm4KOvZ
— ALPA (@WeAreALPA) August 14, 2019Alliance for Retired Americans:
Drug costs are out of control. That’s why we’re rallying for lower drug prices across the country today. Send a message to your member of Congress here: https://t.co/lGIazEu93V #PeopleOverPharma @TheWIAlliance @RepGwenMoore pic.twitter.com/HRLPYVOblj
— Alliance Retirees (@ActiveRetirees) August 20, 2019Amalgamated Transit Union:
#CATA workers to demand better work conditions at board meeting https://t.co/zjcxDONT3H #1u #publictransit #transit
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) August 22, 2019American Federation of Musicians:
Entering the tenth week of a lockout, @bso_musicians
performing a concert for drivers during rush hour. #1u#UnionMusicians ?✊?✊✊?? pic.twitter.com/G279MVUT9Z
American Postal Workers Union:
#APWU’s gearing up for a tough national contract arbitration & we need that #APWUnited support. Show your labor solidarity & tell us what you love about the union. Post your own #PostalSlam video & tag us! Let’s show management - WE ARE THE UNION! #1U https://t.co/U9m0QHHPww
— APWU National (@APWUnational) August 20, 2019Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance:
Sign the petition: Demand that our lawmakers pass the PRO Act!
Working class and middle class families in the United States deserve income security and should be able to organize their co-workers to demand living wages and healthy working conditions. https://t.co/o1vzbSNFhk pic.twitter.com/0pfD8knoXd
Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:
Happy 74th Bday, AFA! Flight Attendants around the world - this is where it all began. We’re one of the most organized professions in labor & together we’ve achieved victories for equality, workplace health & safety, & contracts that define our work as aviation's first responders pic.twitter.com/DolL8UX3lY
— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) August 22, 2019Boilermakers:
Deadline is Aug. 26 (Monday!) ⏳to add a comment to save our apprenticeships. We need everyone’s voice ? to tell the DOL to keep us permanently exempt from their proposal. Boilermakers: https://t.co/PgDkKIqy31. pic.twitter.com/Z1vrYFplT2
— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) August 22, 2019Bricklayers:
"If we’re going to organize #immigrants, and if we’re going to make immigrants feel like they have ownership in our unions, we can’t be afraid to have the tough conversations with all our members about why it’s so important." -@jboland on organizing immigrants @GoIUPAT Convention
— Bricklayers Union (@IUBAC) August 14, 2019California School Employees Association:
#csea93 pic.twitter.com/LdB4XGhlV5
— CSEA (@CSEA_Now) August 20, 2019Coalition of Black Trade Unionists:
Black Trade Unionists in America stand with our courageous sisters and brothers in #Zimbabwe in their just struggle against the repressive government in #Zimbabwe. A luta continua! https://t.co/7WGaUhOaFh
— CBTU (@CBTU72) August 22, 2019Coalition of Labor Union Women:
SEPTEMBER 1: Last day to make sure you're a current Regular CLUW member to be able to vote as a delegate at our upcoming 20th Biennial CLUW Convention. It's also the application deadline for the Gloria T. Johnson scholarship. https://t.co/nZA2LpSLW1 pic.twitter.com/8YzktfQboe
— CLUW National (@CLUWNational) August 16, 2019Communications Workers of America:
NAFTA 2.0 is a corporate giveaway.
The deal falls short of truly protecting working people and will allow big pharmaceutical companies to lock in high drug prices.
Call Congress and tell them we need a new NAFTA that puts people over profits: 1-855-973-4213#ReplaceNAFTA pic.twitter.com/JcdlhU9xQP
Department for Professional Employees:
Even with more college-educated women in the labor force, men still earn higher wages at every education level. This must change, and joining together in union can help. #1u #wagegap https://t.co/wk4HWr3juc
— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) August 21, 2019Electrical Workers:
With every summer seeming to set new high temperature records, it's becoming more critical to take your health — and that of your coworkers — seriously. https://t.co/fZ75jSNan9
— IBEW (@IBEW) August 21, 2019Farm Labor Organizing Committee:
We are headed down to the International Civil Rights Museum and Center and to the fields of North Carolina to farm labor camps. pic.twitter.com/1L3o9673vq
— Farm Labor Organizing Committee (@SupportFLOC) August 20, 2019Fire Fighters:
IAFF Behavioral Health Specialist @sarahabernes and IAFF Peer Support Master Instructor @b_dreiman will lead a session on suicide and suicide prevention in the fire service on Thurs., 8/22 at #IAFFRedmond19. See what they say about the importance of forming a peer support network pic.twitter.com/IlaSuqqsvQ
— IAFF (@IAFFNewsDesk) August 21, 2019Heat and Frost Insulators:
Check it out! We have updated the Flickr album with the graduation images from Trainer Enhancement last week. Congratulations, Instructors! https://t.co/f6sC5i02SC
— Insulators Union (@InsulatorsUnion) August 21, 2019Ironworkers:
Proud to share this video about Iron Workers Local 44 that won an Emmy Award ??? for Best Branded Content! Kudos to Dave Baker from Local 44, who did an amazing job narrating the video! #emmys https://t.co/u7TmZTXjXI
— Ironworkers. (@TheIronworkers) August 21, 2019Jobs With Justice:
It appears DoorDash is still running out the door with tips meant for those delivering food for the service. #gigeconomy https://t.co/IRpPYxG6Xa
— Jobs With Justice (@jwjnational) August 22, 2019Labor Council For Latin American Advancement:
Gender, race, and ethnicity play significant and decisive roles in the distribution of opportunity, wages and wealth in our society. The different equal pay days that are observed throughout the year are examples of these discriminatory practices. #EqualPay #Trabajadoras pic.twitter.com/wQ8LTLKSYX
— LCLAA (@LCLAA) August 22, 2019Laborers:
Calvin began his journey in partnership with @BuildingUpTO leading to earning hands on skills training with LiUNA. Today, a Proud #LiUNA Member, Calvin is building a better future for him and for his family with a career in the trades! Watch his story!https://t.co/7xN5cpSzR7
— LiUNA! Canada (@LiunaCanada) August 19, 2019Longshoremen:
ILA @ILAUnion @TheILAmobileApp Night At Yankee Stadium - Fri., Sept 20 @ 7:05 pm. ILA Yankee hat to all ticket holders Info: https://t.co/ymhIrUwXGz pic.twitter.com/MjZwgIK0tk
— Int'l LongshoreAssoc (@ILAUnion) August 19, 2019Machinists:
BIG NEWS: @Boeing has been found GUILTY of firing workers for their support of the IAM in South Carolina. #BeBetterBoeing https://t.co/n3sFc3f0Fj
— Machinists Union (@MachinistsUnion) August 19, 2019Metal Trades:
Longtime labor reporter and author Steven Greenhouse joined The Takeaway to discuss how unions are navigating the difficulties of dealing with a president who says he's supportive of labor, but whose policies often run counter to the interests of unions. https://t.co/pq7pGOy6p5
— Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) August 20, 2019Mine Workers:
"We're not politicians, we're coal miners." NBC News story about @mineworkers fight in Congress to preserve retirees' pensions. #TheyEarnedIt #savepensionssavelives #1u https://t.co/qMOuse3FtN
— United Mine Workers (@MineWorkers) August 21, 2019National Air Traffic Controllers Association:
“You don’t have to be lonely,” writes NATCA Recurrent Training Rep Richard Kennington in EAA’s AirVenture Today magazine. “All pilots should have a basic understanding of how the ATC system works.” https://t.co/n7ASm65rvQ
— NATCA (@NATCA) August 22, 2019National Association of Letter Carriers:
NALC information is now available at your fingertips! Install the "NALC Member App" on your iPhone or Andriod smartphone & get up-to-date information & resources. Simply go to the app store for iPhones or Google Play for Androids -- then search for “NALC Member App.” #1u #NALCapp pic.twitter.com/XBbZiowX5X
— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) August 22, 2019National Domestic Workers Alliance:
For #BlackWomensEqualPay Day @aliciagarza sat down with @meenaharris to talk about how addressing the wage gap is about more than just numbers. When we do right by Black women, the entire country benefits.https://t.co/fHkUi9soMk
— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) August 22, 2019National Nurses United:
Ruth Somera was just one of dozens of RNs deployed to Puerto Rico in the wake of Hurricane Maria.
Honor the selfless acts of these #nurses and help the Registered Nurse Response Network celebrate its 14th anniversary by making a contribution today ➡️ https://t.co/xdExuMWT4W #1u pic.twitter.com/t4GMAHAltu
NewsGuild:
On #BlackWomensEqualPay day, journalists are fighting for #EqualPay. Find out more about how you can too. https://t.co/XhjAM2scgF @news_guild @mlburney pic.twitter.com/DBRRTFQeXb
— NewsGuild (@news_guild) August 22, 2019NFL Players Association:
While opening their minds to new experiences, @throughoureyest is challenging the status quo to show that black men do travel and they know how to give back along the way.
STORY: https://t.co/So2NkjEv0e pic.twitter.com/n18DWSCdOl
North America's Building Trades Unions:
For 80 years, Registered Apprenticeship Programs have supplied the construction industry with the safest, most highly-skilled workers.
We now have ONE WEEK to save these programs. Comment here to make your voice heard: https://t.co/yhRxc81TYZ pic.twitter.com/OERSITyZxd
Office and Professional Employees:
Kaiser Permanente workers from California to Maryland are fighting the healthcare giant’s proposal to implement a two-tiered wage system, which pits longtime employees and recent hires against each other, and lowers standards for everyone. #1u pic.twitter.com/FRbbJuZQ8V
— OPEIU (@OPEIU) August 21, 2019Painters and Allied Trades:
Help us get us as many members as possible to stand up against IRAPs. During our #DayofAction this Friday, talk to your fellow sisters and brothers about submitting their comments. Submit yours NOW! https://t.co/Qp2hrmdhfc #SaveUSApprenticeships pic.twitter.com/UDhb45TslQ
— GoIUPAT✊? (@GoIUPAT) August 21, 2019Plasterers and Cement Masons:
Union apprenticeship programs give “us the same level and quality of training we received in the Military. This is one of the reasons why veterans choose to attend NABTU Registered Apprenticeship Programs.” Submit your comments now! https://t.co/wspFQbfvhO https://t.co/nJ6CEQUgb9
— OPCMIA International (@opcmiaintl) August 22, 2019Professional Aviation Safety Specialists:
Today at #PASSConv19, National Vice President Carlos Aguirre shared his plans and vision for PASS. He emphasized the importance of the federal workforce and ensuring federal employees are treated fairly. #PASSinPDX pic.twitter.com/6ch2Q72Jzc
— PASS (@PASSNational) August 20, 2019Professional and Technical Engineers:
ATTENTION! @RepMcNerney, @RepAnnaEshoo , and @RepJimCosta: Representing more than 20,000 hardworking professionals in the #BayArea, @IFPTE urges you to stand with working people! Support HR 1309 today!! pic.twitter.com/BpNzYIlU2z
— IFPTE (@IFPTE) August 20, 2019Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Workers:
The @Local_1102 members who prepare and provide food service on the NYU campus recently ratified a new contract that brings strong wage increase and improved medical coverage! pic.twitter.com/vKbzxgTDla
— RWDSU (@RWDSU) August 21, 2019Roofers and Waterproofers:
https://t.co/eWJbsdUnnO
The DOL is counting comments, and Roofers’ numbers are not good. We need at least 2,000 more member comments in the next week. EVERY MEMBER SHOULD SIGN THIS PETITION USING THE MEMBER LINK. pic.twitter.com/N1V6HsWPWs
SAG-AFTRA:
SBS @mega963fm and @979laraza are leading the #LA Market in LABOR VIOLATIONS! RT to support SBS employees as they fight for fair working conditions. #SOSSBS #SAGAFTRAUNIDOS pic.twitter.com/KkwySkT0IO
— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) August 16, 2019School Administrators:
500 San Diego Unified School Leaders Join National Labor Union for Stronger Voice --especially DC https://t.co/FNA7EVxZ0u@khefling @BenjaminEW @mstratford
— AFSA Leadership (@AFSAUnion) August 19, 2019Solidarity Center:
One 2018 report found gender inequality in business costs countries $160 trillion because of the difference in lifetime earnings btwn men/women. Another in 2015 found advancing female equality in the workplace could add $12 trillion to global GDP by 2025. https://t.co/0ZKZBQGAMR
— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) August 22, 2019Theatrical Stage Employees:
Are Hotels' "Green Choice" programs misleading? According to @unitehere, no leading environmental studies recommend skipping housekeeping as an environmental practice. https://t.co/FeIuKhFWLX
— IATSE (@IATSE) August 21, 2019Transport Workers:
Thank you @RepEspaillat for leading the downstate New York and upstate New Jersey delegations calling on @AmericanAir & President Doug Parker to keep good, blue-collar jobs in the U.S. https://t.co/9Hx11rAxLW pic.twitter.com/7WYRg1G4iz
— TWU (@transportworker) August 20, 2019Transportation Trades Department:
This should go without saying, but when you exploit your drivers to maximize profits at the expense of their well being, their health suffers. https://t.co/FTaeLfR5NP
— Transp. Trades Dept. (@TTDAFLCIO) August 22, 2019UAW:
Millions of Californians do not have access to a workplace retirement plan — so the state has stepped in to offer a public option: https://t.co/2urceisUvt
— UAW (@UAW) August 20, 2019Union Label and Service Trades:
Not only do hardworking men and women make the leather for every NFL football, but also the leather for world famous Red Wing boots and shoes! Check out the handiwork of these UFCW 1189 members ?? #NationalLeathercraftDay pic.twitter.com/U5LeV57ApF
— Union Label Dept. (@ULSTD_AFLCIO) August 15, 2019Union Veterans Council:
SITTING DOWN FOR JUSTICE!
Watch @TexasAFLCIO Union Vet @Stijerina sit down and fight back with @unitehere #1u #1job pic.twitter.com/qKDtMRLKkh
UNITE HERE:
We stand with miners at #Blackjewel! Coal miners have a long history of taking on hard fights against rich, greedy bosses - we know whose side we're on.
One day longer, one day stronger! ⛏✊#NoPayWeStay https://t.co/cEEKPJz9RO
United Food and Commercial Workers:
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (@LLSusa) is the world’s largest voluntary health agency dedicated to finding cures for blood cancers, and UFCW has been a longstanding partner since 1982. See how one member has helped his Local raise $ for the cause ?: https://t.co/ev1yfY6rsY pic.twitter.com/WBIkehpiTs
— UFCW (@UFCW) August 22, 2019United Steelworkers:
. @repjohnlewis - One of every 6 workplace deaths are from workplace violence—more than from equipment or fires & explosions. FIGHT for #SafeJobsNow pic.twitter.com/JnrpB1nYns
— United Steelworkers (@steelworkers) August 21, 2019Utility Workers:
Even though August is nearly over, parts of the nation are still experiencing intense heat. Stay safe out there, and keep an eye out for your coworkers! pic.twitter.com/hDt98w2IwE
— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) August 21, 2019Working America:
The devastating economic effects of NAFTA can still be felt today. We need a new policy that uplifts all workers, not another deal that benefits multinational corporations at the expense of workers. https://t.co/u96vpvRg97
— Working America (@WorkingAmerica) August 21, 2019Writers Guild of America, East:
Unions: the universally flattering, must-have statement piece for this (and every) season!
Solidarity with the very fashionable @CBSNunion as they head to the bargaining table today! #1u https://t.co/w67gF0zYh4
Union Veterans Fight for Texas Catering Workers
On Tuesday morning, as union veteran Sam Tijerina drove from Pasadena, Texas, to Dallas, he had a lot on his mind. His thoughts wandered as he passed mile markers and towns—he thought about his young family at home and the life that having a union job has provided them. “A union card has allowed me to live with dignity,” he said.
Tijerina was traveling to one of the largest acts of civil disobedience that the Texas labor movement has waged in years. LSG Sky Chef workers, who are contracted by American Airlines, planned a rally with UNITE HERE to advocate for raising wages. “It was important to be part of the civil disobedience because my fellow veterans are affected by poor wages,” Tijerina said. “There are an estimated 1.3 million veteran workers who earn less than $15 an hour. It is disheartening to know my brothers and sisters have to work multiple jobs to make ends meet. One job should be enough.”
More than 600 supporters showed up at the protest, including catering workers, union members from other airports and local supporters like Tijerina. He was one of 58 people who were arrested while blocking traffic during the protest.
Tijerina is an Elevator Constructor (IUEC) from Local 31 and a Marine veteran who served in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom II. The Marines taught him about selfless service and how to lead by example. “I know that it’s not just about me,” Tijerina said. “It's about fighting for everyone, no matter what their situation is.” This is the same sentiment echoed by Union Veterans Council Executive Director Will Attig at a recent speech to the Texas AFL-CIO convention, shortly before announcing the creation of a Texas chapter of the Union Veterans Council. “Leaders lead from the front and motivate others to take action,” Attig added. “Texas union vets are ready to take action to support the working people of this state.”
Earlier this year, Attig was among a group of union leaders and activists who were arrested at the U.S. Capitol during the government shutdown, when a quarter of 1 million veteran workers faced no pay and job instability. Attig hopes this action will motivate fellow union veterans to get more involved. Attig wants Union Veterans Council members and the labor movement to know that union veterans are a force to be reckoned with.
The Union Veterans Council is working to unify our veterans by giving them the tools and platform to make their voices heard on a local and national level, along with inspiring union veterans to take an action-based role in the labor movement. Tijerina is just one of a growing movement of union veterans across the country who are using their voices to fight and advocate for fellow workers and the issues that matter to their community.
Visit us on our website or on social media
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 08/22/2019 - 10:21Free At Last! Labor Podcast and Radio Roundup
In addition to the AFL-CIO's own "State of the Unions," there are a lot of other podcasts out there that have their own approach to discussing labor issues and the rights of working people. Here are the latest podcasts from across the labor movement in the United States.
Follow the links below to find podcasts. They also can be found wherever you listen to podcasts:
America's Work Force: "This week's guests include Cheri Honkala, founder of the Poor People’s Economic Rights Campaign, Frank Mathews, administrative director for Communications Workers of America District 4 in Chicago, and Jim Cullen, editor of the Progressive Populist."
Building Bridges: Your Community and Labor Report: "We welcome home Janet and Janine Africa, after 41 years, and won’t rest until all our political prisoners are free at last! With:
- Sheroes Janet and Janine finally returned to the beloved community after 41 years of incarceration for a death that actually resulted from a police campaign of terror used against black community organizations;
- Carlos Africa, Move organizer;
- Pam Africa, Move organizer; and
- Commentary by Mumia Abu-Jamal, a political prisoner who remains imprisoned for life without parole and continues his work as a journalist from his jail cell in Pennsylvania. Prior to his wrongful conviction in 1981, Abu-Jamal was a political activist and president of the Philadelphia Association of Black Journalists."
CTU Speaks! Podcast: "The Chicago Teachers Union launched CTU Speaks! earlier this week. The monthly podcast by rank-and-file educators in Chicago Public Schools seeks to empower and unify members through discussions about the union, Chicago’s public schools and communities, and local and national public education issues. CTU Speaks! is the brainchild of the union’s member-led Public Relations and Communications Committee, hosted by committee members Andrea Parker and Jim Staros."
Heartland Labor Forum: "Missouri’s motto is 'Let the welfare of the people be the supreme law,' but the legislature still hasn’t passed Medicaid expansion. This week on the Heartland Labor Forum we’ll talk to Jobs with Justice’s Richard Von Glahn on a new coalition to use the initiative process to win health care coverage for thousands of Missourians. Then we’ll find out from Art Johnson, former president of the Social Security local in Kansas City, just how bad Donald Trump’s union-busting of federal unions is."
UComm Live with Kris LaGrange: "The governor of Massachusetts vetoes a popular bill that would protect employees' right to have a voice at work; ICE conducts their biggest workplace raid ever; Democratic candidate Jay Inslee talks green, union jobs; Rich Trumka warns the Democratic Party not to take its base for granted; what to do when a boss bargains in the press; and the Mets are only one game out of the wild card. PLUS: On Thursday, August 15th on UCOMM Live, we call out Dave Portnoy of Barstool Sports for threatening his staff if they attempt to organize; Dave is scared of us, and he should be. Sarker goes into an interesting piece on where are all the union Muslims? Antonio Brown of the Oakland Raiders is not wearing his PPEs; his shop stewards are pissed. Chris Cuomo, Andy's little brother, caught on tape standing up for himself, and Beto O'Rourke comes out with a sensible gun control solution."
Union City Radio: Texas AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Montserrat Garibay; the toxic impact of private equity; AFSCME Local 3001 OmniRide drivers settle a new contract.
Union Strong - Call for Transparency on Campus Foundations: "SUNY’s 30 campus-related foundations have a lot of money—millions. Where does it come from, where is it going and how is it being used? These are all questions raised by UUP, the nation’s largest higher education union. On this podcast, a conversation with UUP President Dr. Fred Kowal about campus foundations and much more."
Workers Beat: "Will have a lineup of local union and other progressive leaders to endorse labor outreach."
Your Rights at Work: "Hosted by Chris Garlock, with Mark Gruenberg; DC’s call-in show about worker rights: those you have, those you don’t, how to get them and how to use them. On this week’s show: Ghost Workers author Mary Gray and a sneak preview of Gene Bruskin’s new labor musical, 'The Moment Was Now.'"
State of the Unions: "Tim talks to NABTU Chief of Staff Mike Monroe about a Department of Labor proposal that would undermine world-class apprenticeships in the construction industry."
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 08/21/2019 - 14:07Tags: Podcast
‘State of the Unions’ Podcast: Save Our Apprenticeships
On the latest episode of “State of the Unions,” podcast co-host Tim Schlittner talks to North America's Building Trades Unions (NABTU) Chief of Staff Mike Monroe about a Department of Labor proposal that would undermine world-class apprenticeships in the construction industry.
Listen to our previous episodes:
- A discussion with Texas AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Montserrat Garibay (Education Austin/AFT-NEA) in the wake of the deadly mass shooting in El Paso, Texas.
- UNITE HERE President D. Taylor talking about the activism of airline catering workers and the current moment for union organizing.
- Highlights of AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka's (UMWA) town halls in Pittsburgh, Cleveland and Detroit, where he discussed NAFTA and trade.
- AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Liz Shuler (IBEW) talks about pushing the labor movement to be bold, take risks and not be afraid of failure.
- Pride At Work Executive Director Jerame Davis discusses the progress made by LGBTQ working people over the past quarter-century and the work still left to be done.
- Union organizer Andy Levin goes to Washington to make a difference for working people.
- Talking to National Nurses United (NNU) Executive Director Bonnie Castillo, RN, about the growing movement of registered nurses organizing for better jobs, a more just society and health care as a fundamental human right.
“State of the Unions” is available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher and anywhere else you can find podcasts.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 08/21/2019 - 10:46Tags: Podcast
Lesotho Plan Has All Elements to End Gender-Based Violence at Work
A new worker-centered, precedent-setting program will comprehensively address the rampant gender-based violence and harassment (GBVH) denying thousands of women garment workers a safe and dignified workplace in Lesotho.
The program, established by two negotiated and enforceable agreements, will cover 10,000 Lesotho garment workers in five factories that produce jeans and knitwear for the global market. Lesotho-based unions and women’s rights groups, major fashion brands and international worker rights organizations, including the Solidarity Center, negotiated with the factory owner, Nien Hsing Textiles, to mandate education and awareness training for all employees and managers, an independent reporting and monitoring system, and remedies for abusive behavior.
The parties came to the table after the U.S.-based Worker Rights Consortium documented how the mostly female workforce at three Nien Hsing textile factories regularly was coerced into sexual activity with supervisors as a condition of gaining or retaining employment or promotions, and were persistently sexually harassed, verbally and physically.
The Lesothoan unions and women’s rights groups, all with proven histories of fighting to advance the rights of workers and women throughout the country, are: the Federation of Women Lawyers in Lesotho (FIDA), the Independent Democratic Union of Lesotho (IDUL), the National Clothing Textile and Allied Workers Union, Lesotho (NACTWU), the United Textile Employees (UNITE) and Women and Law in Southern Africa Research and Education Trust (WLSA)-Lesotho. They will administer the agreement and will serve on the oversight committee.
The Solidarity Center, WRC and Workers United joined these groups to negotiate the two agreements with Levi Strauss, The Children’s Place, Kontoor Brands and Nien Hsing Textiles.
“This is the first initiative in Lesotho that brings together workers, unions, women’s organizations and employers to work towards one common goal of improving the socioeconomic rights of women in the workplace,” said Thusoana Ntlama, FIDA programs coordinator, and Libakiso Matlho, WLSA national director.
Agreements Follow Report Documenting Abuse at Lesotho Factories
Nearly two-thirds of the garment workers WRC interviewed reported “having experienced sexual harassment or abuse” or having knowledge of harassment or abuse suffered by co-workers, according to the report. Women workers from all three factories identified GBVH as a central concern for themselves and other female employees.
“Many supervisors demand sexual favors and bribes from prospective employees,” one worker told WRC investigators. “They promise jobs to the workers who are still on probationary contracts.[…]All of the women in my department have slept with the supervisor. For the women, this is about survival and nothing else.[…]If you say no, you won’t get the job, or your contract will not be renewed.”
All the Elements to Prevent, Eliminate GBVH at Work
While sexual harassment and other forms of gender-based violence may happen at any workplace, GBVH is rampant in the global garment and textile industry. Globally, some 85% of garment workers are women. They are especially vulnerable to abuse and violence at work because of imbalanced power structures, high poverty and unemployment.
The Lesotho plan “has all the elements needed to prevent and eliminate gender-based violence at work,” says Solidarity Center Executive Director Shawna Bader-Blau. “First, there’s real accountability. It is binding and enforceable on all parties. And the global brands and the employer have guaranteed their commitment to enforcing and upholding the code of conduct by signing fully executed, binding and enforceable contracts.”
The agreements:
- Establish an independent organization to investigate issues, fully empowered to determine remedies;
- Create a clear code of conduct on unacceptable behaviors and a system for reporting abuse—with garment workers as full participants in creating, implementing and monitoring it; and
- Establish an education and awareness program that goes beyond the typical harassment and gender violence training. It will be comprehensive and get at the root causes of gender discrimination and violence against women.
Importantly, says Bader-Blau, “the program is sustainable because it’s worker designed, with unions working together with women’s rights groups to deliver it.”
And because the freedom to form unions and collectively bargain has proven essential to addressing gender-based violence and harassment at work and in creating the space for workers to shape a future of work that is fair and democratic, it’s especially key that these agreements also protect workers’ rights to freely form unions, says Bader-Blau.
Nien Hsing, which manufactures apparel for global brands in several countries, signed one agreement with trade unions and women’s rights organizations in Lesotho to establish the GBVH program, and has committed to take recommended action when violations of the program’s code of conduct have been established.
The global brands entered into a parallel agreement in which, should Nien Hsing commit a material breach of its agreement with the unions and NGOs, it will take action, including a potential reduction in orders.
In the past, as one worker told WRC, “The [supervisors accused of harassment] are usually rotated to other departments,” arrangements the plan seeks to eradicate.
Putting the Plan into Action
Lesotho-based women’s rights organizations, unions, the Solidarity Center and WRC will jointly design the education and awareness program and curriculum, with input from the newly created independent investigative organization.
They also will carry out the two-day training in which all workers and managers will take part. Workers will be paid regular wages during the training.
And importantly, says Bader-Blau, “Empowered workers with a negotiated stake in the agreements can identify and report violence and harassment. And because they have established the terms with the employer as equals, they can be sure that retaliation for reporting abuse and the impunity of abusers will end. Unlike corporate social responsibility programs, the Lesotho program is a contractual agreement with the employer, the brands and the unions, which means everyone is accountable to the code of conduct–with workers able to enforce it as an equal party.”
The program is partially modeled after the Fair Food Program, a set of binding agreements between leading food brands, like McDonald’s and Whole Foods, and the Coalition of Immokalee Workers. Using the type of independent complaint mechanism that will be established by the Lesotho agreements, the Fair Food Program largely has eliminated what had been rampant sexual harassment and coercion in the tomato fields of Florida.
The agreements also build on the Bangladesh Accord on Fire and Building Safety, in which unions were key participants, and recognizes the fundamental role of collective bargaining in negotiating an agreement that is binding on employers and international brands and in bringing accountability to the global supply chain by ensuring the agreement is implemented and enforced.
Funding for the two-year program will come primarily from the three brands, in collaboration with the U.S. Agency for International Development, and the program will kick off in fall 2019.
This post originally appeared at the Solidarity Center.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 08/20/2019 - 10:45Tags: Solidarity Center
Ahead of Election Season, New Jersey State AFL-CIO’s Labor Candidates School Grooms New Crop of Office-Seeking Union Members
It was a monumental weekend for 28 union members who graduated from the New Jersey State AFL-CIO’s 23rd Annual Labor Candidates School on Sunday.
The two-day immersion course, held at the union-staffed Rutgers University Inn and Conference Center on Aug. 17 and 18, featured lectures from a number of seasoned election experts. Topics included fundraising, election law, campaign research, message development, public speaking, media relations, voter contact, volunteer recruitment, targeting and digital strategy.
"To say I’m proud of the graduates of this year’s Labor Candidates School would be an understatement," said Charles Wowkanech, president of the New Jersey State AFL-CIO. “It’s exciting to see so many union members interested in running for elected office. These ambitious brothers and sisters understand the issues facing the working class, and once they’re elected, they’ll pursue a proactive and progressive labor agenda at the state and local level.
“This new crop of labor candidates has the full support of the state fed, and we look forward to mentoring them during this upcoming election season,” Wowkanech added.
Wowkanech launched the Labor Candidates School in 1997 as part of the state federation's ongoing effort to recruit, train and support union members running for elected office. Since then, the school has helped 1,031 union members get elected to local, state and federal offices.
More than 150 Labor Candidates School graduates currently hold public office. Among them are U.S. Rep. Donald Norcross, State Senate President Steve Sweeney, State Sen. Troy Singleton and Assemblymen Joe Egan, Wayne DeAngelo, Eric Houghtaling, Tom Giblin, Anthony Verrelli and Paul Moriarty. As officeholders, these graduates have championed policies that reflect the priorities of New Jersey’s working families, such as paid family leave and raising the minimum wage.
With its ever-increasing tally of election victories and 78% win ratio, the New Jersey State AFL-CIO’s Labor Candidates School has become a nationwide paragon of success. In fact, many state federations now are expanding their political programs based on New Jersey’s labor candidate training model. This includes the Minnesota AFL-CIO, which sent Field Director Pommella Wegmann to New Jersey to observe the school this past weekend.
“Minnesota’s labor movement is excited to bring this tried-and-tested labor candidate training to the Midwest,” Wegmann said. “The New Jersey State AFL-CIO has built the premier program in the country, and I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity to attend this school and learn from their staff.”
As of now, 66 union members are running for political offices throughout New Jersey in November’s general election. For a complete list of New Jersey State AFL-CIO endorsements, click here.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 08/19/2019 - 11:58AFL-CIO International Affairs Committee's Response to Israel's Denial of Entry to Reps. Omar and Tlaib
The AFL-CIO International Affairs Committee issued the following response to the government of Israel’s decision to deny entry to Reps. Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib:
As longtime supporters of Israel, and its General Federation of Labor, the Histadrut, we urge the government of Israel to reverse its decision to bar Reps. Ilhan Omar (Minn.) and Rashida Tlaib (Mich.) from entering Israel. We say this as close friends of our brothers and sisters in the Histadrut and the Israeli people.
While we strongly disagree with Reps. Omar’s and Tlaib’s positions on the Israeli–Palestinian conflict, and maintain our longstanding commitment to meaningful, direct negotiations between the Israelis and the Palestinians toward a viable two-state solution, we also feel that all members of the U.S. Congress should be able to visit Israel. Regardless of Omar’s and Tlaib’s political positions, they should not be forbidden from visiting Israel.
The AFL-CIO International Affairs Committee:
Christopher Shelton, CWA, Co-Chair
Stuart Appelbaum, RWDSU/UFCW, Co-Chair
Robert Martinez, IAM, Vice Chair
James Boland, BAC
Harold Daggett, ILA
Jennifer Dorning, DPE
Leo Gerard, USW
Lorretta Johnson, AFT
Gary Jones, UAW
Sara Nelson, AFA/CWA
Fred Redmond, USW
Paul Rinaldi, NATCA
Michael Sacco, SIU
Baldemar Velasquez, FLOC
Business is Booming: 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.
NYC's $15 Minimum Wage Hasn't Brought the Restaurant Apocalypse—It's Helped Them Thrive: "New York City restaurant workers saw their pay increase by 20% after a $15 minimum-wage hike, and a new report says business is booming despite warnings that the boost would devastate the city's restaurant industry. As New York raised the minimum wage to $15 this year from $7.25 in 2013, its restaurant industry outperformed the rest of the U.S. in job growth and expansion, a new study found. The study, by researchers from the New School and the New York think tank National Employment Law Project, found no negative employment effects of the city increasing its minimum wage to $15."
ICE Raids Affect the Country's Economy, According to Experts: "Last April, an annual report published by the AFL-CIO indicated that in 2017, 5,147 workers died at their job sites due to 'traumatic injuries', and almost 3.5 million suffered workplace related injuries and diseases. Although there was a decline in accidental deaths in the agricultural sector, it is still one of the most dangerous in the US: for every 100,000 inhabitants, the sector had a rate of 23 deaths, compared to the construction sector, which had 9.5, or that of transport, with 14.3."
Trump Defends Immigration Raids in Mississippi to Deter Illegal Immigration: "Immigrant rights advocacy groups, including the AFL-CIO, the Hispanic Federation, and other civic groups, have also condemned the raids. AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka said that the raids are only intended to sow fear and ingratiate themselves with divisive elements of the country, and that the only 'crime' of those arrested 'is to work hard for a better life.'"
The U.S. Labor Shortage, Explained: "The U.S. economy doesn’t have enough workers. For a record 16 straight months, the number of open jobs has been higher than the number of people looking for work. The US economy had 7.4 million job openings in June, but only 6 million people were looking for work, according to data released by the U.S. Department of Labor. This is not normal. Ever since Labor began tracking job turnover two decades ago, there have always been more people looking for work than jobs available. That changed for the first time in January 2018."
Perkins Center to Honor AFL-CIO Senior Executive and Child Advocate: "The Frances Perkins Center will honor two women who exemplify Perkins’ inspiring leadership and commitment to social justice and economic security at its annual Garden Party: Liz Shuler, current secretary-treasurer and chief financial officer of the AFL-CIO, advocate for the welfare of working Americans, and Maria Mossaides, the director of Massachusetts Office of the Child Advocate, defender of America’s most vulnerable citizens. 'We’re delighted to recognize Liz Shuler and Maria Mossaides for their decades of work in advancing the causes championed by Frances Perkins,' said Perkins Center Executive Director Michael Chaney. Liz Shuler, the second top-level officer for the AFL-CIO, the first woman elected to the position, and the youngest woman to sit on the federation’s Executive Council, will receive the Intelligence and Courage Award."
Save Veteran Construction Training Programs: "After coming home from the Army, Union Veteran Council Executive Director Will Attig struggled to find his place. 'I came home without a job, a degree or a future,' Attig said. That changed when he found a Registered Apprenticeship Program with the North America's Building Trades Unions (NABTU) and became a journeyman pipe fitter with the Plumbers and Pipe Fitters (UA)."
Shatter the Silence: In the States Roundup: "It's time once again to take a look at the ways working people are making progress in the states."
Get to Know AFL-CIO's Affiliates: Bricklayers: "Next up in our series that takes a deeper look at each of our affiliates is the Bricklayers."
‘State of the Unions’ Podcast—Special Episode: The Labor Movement Responds to the El Paso Massacre: "On the latest episode of 'State of the Unions,' podcast co-hosts Julie Greene and Tim Schlittner talk with Texas AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Montserrat Garibay (Education Austin/AFT-NEA) in the wake of the deadly mass shooting in El Paso, Texas. They discuss immigration, organizing and the need for solidarity in times of darkness."
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 08/15/2019 - 12:16Save Veteran Construction Training Programs
After coming home from the Army, Union Veteran Council Executive Director Will Attig struggled to find his place. “I came home without a job, a degree or a future,” Attig said. That changed when he found a Registered Apprenticeship Program with the North America's Building Trades Unions (NABTU) and became a journeyman pipe fitter with the Plumbers and Pipe Fitters (UA).
This is not only Attig’s story but countless other veterans who have found the registered apprenticeship programs as a way to achieve the American dream after returning home from service. At the same time, we have seen private organizations and for-profit schools create phony programs that prey on veterans leaving them with sub-par training and no true education. Right now, the future of America's veteran construction workers, the integrity of their industry and programs that support tens of thousands of veterans' transitions are at risk.
“The Registered Apprenticeship model gives us the same level and quality of training we received in the military,” Attig added. “This is one of the reasons why veterans choose to attend NABTU Registered Apprenticeship Programs and are joining construction unions at a rate almost double then non-veterans.”
A new proposal by the U.S. Department of Labor could drive down training and labor standards in construction registered apprenticeship programs and set off a race to the bottom throughout this industry. We have less than a month to stop it from becoming a reality. Here is how you can add your voice to the fight. While we applaud the government’s interest in expanding apprenticeship opportunities in new industries, [Industry-Recognized Apprenticeship Programs] have no place in construction.
How Can You Help?
First, if you are a union veteran and a member of a building trades union, we need you to click the link below to submit a comment. It takes less than five minutes and could mean the difference in defending the way of life for your fellow construction workers, your family and yourself.
Building Trade Veterans: Click here to take a stand!
Second, if you are not a member of the building trades but support your fellow union veteran brothers and sisters, please follow the link below to send in a comment voicing your support and solidarity for your fellow union veterans in the trades and the programs that are helping thousands of veterans find a way to truly return home.
Veterans and Supporters: Click here to take a stand!
The proposed IRAPs differ significantly from registered apprenticeship programs. Construction registered programs help recruit, train and retain workers through progressive wage increases; apprentice-to-journey worker ratios that promote safety; quality assurance assessments by the government; uniform standards; mandatory safety training; instructor eligibility requirements; and transparency requirements. The proposed IRAP regulations abandon the important protections of the registered model and give employers the license to implement whatever low-road standards they see fit.
IRAPs in construction would jeopardize both the quality of construction and the safety and security of veterans in the construction workforce, thereby weakening every community across the country where our fellow veterans and workers reside and are needed.
As veterans and supporters of veterans, the time is now to stand together and oppose second-rate IRAP certifications that would undermine the gold-standard that the registered apprenticeship programs have attained.
This post originally appeared at the Union Veterans Council.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 08/14/2019 - 11:56Tags: Union Veterans Council
Shatter the Silence: In the States Roundup
It's time once again to take a look at the ways working people are making progress in the states. Click on any of the links to follow the state federations on Twitter.
Alaska AFL-CIO:
This is just wrong. It's unnecessary, immoral, disrespectful and frankly, inhumane. These attacks on our elders and seniors must stop. #akleg #akgov https://t.co/X9zEElpKPD
— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) August 2, 2019Arkansas AFL-CIO:
NYC's $15 minimum wage hasn't brought the restaurant apocalypse — it's helped them thrive https://t.co/lcbJIx9SjV via @businessinsider
— Arkansas AFL-CIO (@ArkansasAFLCIO) August 12, 2019California Labor Federation:
In CA, we can #ShattertheSilence & protect workers from sexual harassment & discrimination w/ #AB51. Nothing in this bill runs afoul of federal law but it does give workers in CA an important tool to fight #ForcedArbitration @LorenaSGonzalez #YesonAB51 https://t.co/gE45XMCDFi
— California Labor Federation (@CaliforniaLabor) August 8, 2019Connecticut AFL-CIO:
"Now we’ll not only be heard on our concerns about running short-staffed, we’ll have a seat at the table with management to do something about it." #UnionYES @AFTCT @AFLCIO https://t.co/NthduDDzur
— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) August 5, 2019Idaho State AFL-CIO:
I just wrote a @theactionnet letter: Federal Workers Under Attack. Write one here: https://t.co/08d8ON7NmW
— Idaho State AFL-CIO (@IdahoAFLCIO) August 6, 2019Indiana State AFL-CIO:
Trump campaigned in 2016 as a voice for forgotten workers, but he consistently sides with large corporations against workers, and his nomination of Scalia would amplify the sad and damaging war on unions. #1u https://t.co/Q8oVUP2yDb
— Indiana AFL-CIO (@INAFLCIO) August 12, 2019Iowa Federation of Labor:
Hundreds of Portillo's workers organize https://t.co/UNejihZECl #1u
— Iowa AFL-CIO (@IowaAFLCIO) August 7, 2019Maine AFL-CIO:
Graduation time at the 2019 Labor Summer Institute! #1U #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/TXLcyPcaEQ
— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) August 8, 2019Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
We stand in #solidarity with the @UNITEHERE26 Battery Wharf Hotel workers after their unanimous strike vote! #1job #1u https://t.co/rbUjusgjLF
— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) August 6, 2019Metro Washington (D.C.) Council AFL-CIO:
Striking VA OmniRide drivers reach agreement - Metro Washington Council AFL-CIO with photos! https://t.co/JaQjNFifEg
— MetroDCLaborCouncil (@DCLabor) August 6, 2019Michigan AFL-CIO:
#RejectScalia https://t.co/J7aBQ5SxE8
— Michigan AFL-CIO (@MIAFLCIO) August 8, 2019Minnesota AFL-CIO:
U.S. Bank Stadium becomes first to achieve LEED Platinum status. https://t.co/DQfFa7jRfd And it’s #UnionBuilt by members of @MNBldgTrades unions. pic.twitter.com/DJAiUYmVyE
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) August 10, 2019Missouri AFL-CIO:
Unions provide workers with an opportunity to get their voices heard in policy debates that shape their lives. #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/zYrFv9UbVM
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) August 9, 2019Montana AFL-CIO:
Montana's best interests lie with representatives who put workers first! #1u #UnionStronghttps://t.co/3peu0npXkz
— Montana AFL-CIO (@MTaflcio) August 9, 2019Nebraska State AFL-CIO:
The Nebraska State AFL-CIO stands in unity with the people of El Paso and Dayton - Hate has no place in America - hateful rhetoric has no place in America. https://t.co/GIjr103pPc
— NE State AFL-CIO (@NEAFLCIO) August 5, 2019New Mexico Federation of Labor:
Really! #Solidarity for these #CommonSense proposals from our brothers and sisters. https://t.co/lTX9446LKs
— NMFL (@NMFLaflcio) August 7, 2019New York State AFL-CIO:
Podcast Episode 16: Hard Hats. Strong Women. Building the Future. #UnionStrong #CountMeIn @NEWStrongWomen @NYCBldgTrades #1u https://t.co/6yY1JrD5VY
— NYSAFLCIO (@NYSAFLCIO) August 7, 2019North Carolina State AFL-CIO:
.@MaryBeMcMillan to speak @UnionSportsmen's Inaugural NC State Conservation Dinner Nov. 6th in #Charlotte https://t.co/fNTgdmn82D #1u
— NC State AFL-CIO (@NCStateAFLCIO) August 6, 2019Ohio AFL-CIO:
Say it loud and proud!
Raising wages actually helps the economy for all working people, passing a @GOP #TaxScam helps the economy only for billionaires and investor class. It’s time to #UnrigTheSystem and have it work for worker! https://t.co/ZAFvXKf6db
Oklahoma State AFL-CIO:
Check out our August Newsletter with information on Young Workers in the Labor Movement, Union Made Labor Day, our Convention, Saving Construction Apprenticeships, and more!
Check it out at https://t.co/N1dYjUN2cS h
Oregon AFL-CIO:
Cara, a recent graduate of Portland State University, explains why she's not shopping at @FredMeyerStores until they #FixTheGap between pay for male and female employees.
Learn more and take action by visiting https://t.co/2ZeqyNv5Lf! pic.twitter.com/hCFROftCHM
Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:
We’re talking the #PROAct, it’s time to protect the workers’ right to organize, and enforce that right! @SenBobCasey @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/YSrrouVfLi
— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) August 7, 2019Rhode Island AFL-CIO:
An updated Union Directory listing union goods and services in RI can be found on our website. Here is the direct link -->https://t.co/bmFICV4I4W Please use and share. #1U #AFLCIO #Union #UnionMade #UnionServices #Unions #UnionStrong
— Rhode Island AFL-CIO (@riaflcio) August 7, 2019Texas AFL-CIO:
We are ready for Tuesday, Aug. 13th! Are you? The largest labor action in North Texas is prepared to show @americanair that workers deserve respect. #1u #1Job @unitehere @unitehere23 pic.twitter.com/LjQtAOOWcW
— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) August 10, 2019Virginia AFL-CIO:
Thanks so much to @AFLCIO ‘s Secretary Treasurer @lizshuler for joining us this morning! Thanks for your hard work representing workers everywhere. Check out some of her speech highlights below: pic.twitter.com/MNaoWhkz8n
— Virginia AFL-CIO (@Virginia_AFLCIO) August 10, 2019Washington State Labor Council:
The Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO is proud to be part of this coalition and to support Opportunities For All!#ApproveR88 https://t.co/yZtub4TAUH
— WA State AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) August 9, 2019Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
Laborfest information for Madison via @LaborSCFL #WIunion pic.twitter.com/0YmQMqas3Z
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) August 12, 2019 Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 08/14/2019 - 10:25Get to Know AFL-CIO's Affiliates: Bricklayers
Next up in our series that takes a deeper look at each of our affiliates is the Bricklayers.
Name of Union: International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers (BAC)
Mission: To help workers in the industry deal with unfair treatment, discrimination and other workplace issues in pursuit of balancing the power that an employer has over individual employees. To provide information, training and support for bricklayers and allied craftworkers.
Current Leadership of Union: James Boland serves as president of BAC. Boland became a BAC member in 1977 and worked on projects in the San Francisco Bay Area for a decade. In 1988, he became a business agent for BAC Local 3 before being elected president in 1992. A year later, he joined BAC's Executive Council. Boland joined the international union's headquarters staff as assistant to the vice president. Later that year, he became regional director for California and Nevada. He served as secretary-treasurer from 1999 to 2010. He became president in 2010 and was re-elected in 2015.
Timothy J. Driscoll serves as secretary-treasurer. Gerard Scarano and Carlos Aquin serve as executive vice presidents. The executive council also includes regional vice presidents, regional directors, craft vice presidents and at-large members.
Members Work As: Bricklayers, stone and marble masons, cement masons, plasterers, tile setters, terrazzo and mosaic workers, pointers, cleaners and caulkers.
Industries Represented: The organized masonry industry.
History: Watch this video about the history of the Bricklayers.
Current Campaigns/Community Efforts: The BAC Craft Awards recognize distinguished service that BAC members provide to our unions and communities. BAC runs an International Pension Fund, a Member Assistance Program and an International Health Fund to improve the quality of life for members. The Disaster Relief Fund helps members who are survivors of natural or other disasters. Through it's online store, BAC sells tools and branded clothing and other merchandise. BAC has several training and education resources. The BAC Journal provides information for working people in the masonry industry.
Learn More: Website, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 08/12/2019 - 08:07
