Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Health Care Workers Ratify New Contract with UM Health-Sparrow

Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

Nurses and health care professionals at University of Michigan Health-Sparrow voted to approve a new contract with 95% approval, averting a planned five-day strike. The Professional Employee Council of Sparrow Hospital-Michigan Nurses Association (PECSH-MNA), an affiliate of National Nurses United (NNU), said the contract runs until Oct. 30, 2027, and covers some 2,000 workers.

The new contract includes competitive wage increases (with most members receiving between a 20% and 32% raise); large increases in differentials for night shift, evening shift, and weekend work; a guaranteed health care plan equal or better to the union plan the employer is ending; a permanent decrease in the cost of members’ premium contribution to Blue Cross Blue Shield; new language guaranteeing no permanent replacement of positions with subcontractors; and maintenance of open postings for these positions, extended COVID-19 protections for members, increased benefits for employees injured by workplace violence, vacation accrual for salaried members on paid-out comp time, and a ratification bonus.

“We’re really proud that we as a union stood strong to get what nurses and healthcare professionals at Sparrow need and deserve,” said Leah Rasch, RN and co-chair of the elected PECSH-MNA bargaining team. “This is one of the best contracts anyone can remember at our hospital. A great agreement for our members is a win for all of us, because it will help make sure Sparrow can attract and keep enough nurses and health care workers to take excellent care of our community.”

Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 01/27/2025 - 10:20

Keep the Promise: 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.

Whole Foods Workers in Philadelphia Vote to Form Chain’s First Union: “Workers at a Whole Foods Market in Philadelphia voted on Monday to become the first unionized store in Amazon’s grocery chain, opening a new front in the e-commerce giant’s efforts to fend off labor organizing in multiple segments of its business. Employees at the sprawling Whole Foods store, in the city’s Spring Garden neighborhood, voted 130-100 in favor of organizing with the United Food and Commercial Workers union, the National Labor Relations Board said.”

Las Vegas Hotel Workers Union Reaches Deal with Casino to End Strike: “Hundreds of workers at a Las Vegas hotel and casino who have been on strike for more than two months will go back to work after agreeing to a new contract Wednesday. The Culinary Workers Union and an affiliated bartenders union, which together represented about 700 striking workers at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, announced the employees had unanimously approved a five-year deal. The unions and the hotel said in a joint statement that they are ‘pleased to be moving past their contract negotiations as each looks forward to fostering a positive and collaborative working relationship for the benefit of all team members at the property.’”

Healthcare Worker Union Ratifies New Contract with UM Health-Sparrow: “Nurses and healthcare professionals at University of Michigan Health-Sparrow voted to approve a new contract, the Michigan Nurses Association announced Thursday afternoon. The vote passed with 95% approval, averting a planned five-day strike. Members of the Professional Employee Council of Sparrow Hospital-Michigan Nurses Association (PECSH-MNA) began voting on Monday. Voting ended Thursday and was tallied that same afternoon. Workers would have gone on strike if the contract had not been approved.”

UAW Forces Stellantis to Keep Promises, Wins Back Thousands of Jobs: “After months of campaigns, rallies, grievances filed, and strike votes taken, the United Auto Workers have just won back thousands of jobs in a new agreement with Stellantis. The union’s ‘Keep The Promise’ campaign kicked off after the company reneged on a number of key issues that the workers and their union won in their historic 2023 Stand Up Strike. ‘This victory is a testament to the power of workers standing together and holding a billion-dollar corporation accountable,’ Shawn Fain, president of the UAW, and Kevin Gotkinsky, UAW Stellantis Department Director, said in a statement released Wednesday morning.”

Workers at Genesis HealthCare Ratify First Contract with UFCW Local 152: “Workers at the Genesis HealthCare assisted living facility in Millville voted to ratify their first union contract on Jan. 9, giving them a voice on the job and secured wages and benefits. The workers, members of United Food and Commercial Workers Local 152, voted unanimously to accept their three-year agreement.”

Justice Demands That Colorado Legislators Modernize the State’s Labor Law This Session (Fredrick D. Redmond): “Colorado’s outdated labor law is rooted in unmistakable racism. Now is the time to modernize the law to provide all workers—especially workers of color—with the freedom to organize a union so they can openly voice their opinions at work and negotiate on safety and pay. Colorado’s economy was very different 81 years ago, when our current labor law was passed. In 1943, Colorado’s total population was just over a million people. One of the biggest employers was the Denver Ordnance Plant, where almost 20,000 workers produced bullets for the World War II war effort in three shifts around the clock. And more than 7,000 Japanese-American citizens were prisoners at Camp Amache in Prowers County.”

AFT President Randi Weingarten Discusses Resistance to Trump's Education Policies: “What will resistance to Trump's education policy look like this time around? NPR hears from Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers. Randi Weingarten is the longtime president of the American Federation of Teachers. It's a union representing 1.8 million teachers nationwide. She joins us this morning by way of Skype. Randi, thanks for joining us. Now, how would the teachers you represent be affected by, say, a dismantled Department of Education if indeed he does that?”

New Labor Coalition Wants Colorado’s Unions at the Forefront of the State’s Green Energy Transit: “In a classroom full of motors and switches, Dan Hendricks is going over what goes into a 3-5-year electrical apprenticeship. ‘This is towards the end of their apprenticeship, where they would learn motor control, different switching systems, things of that nature,’ he says, showing me a piece of machinery. ‘So as they progress, right, the work gets more interesting.’ He flicks a switch and triggers a sharp buzzing noise.”

Cecile Richards, Former Planned Parenthood President, Dies at 67: “Cecile Richards, the dynamic former president of the Planned Parenthood Federation of America and one of the country’s most well-known defenders of abortion rights, died on Monday at her home in Manhattan. She was 67. She was diagnosed in 2023 with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer, her family said in a statement. A former political organizer, Richards was a daughter of former Gov. Ann Richards of Texas.”

Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 01/27/2025 - 09:38

Demanding A Seat On the Bus: 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:

ICYMI - Equity members who have been impacted by the California Wildfires can find resources including emergency financial assistance, disaster unemployment insurance, and more on our website. https://t.co/TnrFBsMvll pic.twitter.com/6GelpNq6kp

— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) January 23, 2025

AFGE:

These attacks on DEIA are just a smokescreen for firing civil servants, undermining the apolitical civil service, and turning the federal government into an army of yes-men who are loyal to the president, not the Constitution.https://t.co/Pbn4Zs8uw0

— AFGE (@AFGENational) January 23, 2025

AFSCME:

Congrats to AFSCME member Amy Peters, a scientist with the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, who is the latest winner of our union’s Never Quit Service Award. https://t.co/LEugiblimW

— AFSCME (@AFSCME) January 23, 2025

Alliance for Retired Americans:

BREAKING: Amazon workers in North Carolina are ready to have a union election. #1u #ItsBetterInAUnion https://t.co/otKswMflCA

— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) January 23, 2025

Amalgamated Transit Union:

Local 713-Memphis, TN, demands ‘Seat on the Bus’ as MATA names new CEO. #ATUStrongerTogether
https://t.co/6uDUggVGl3

— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) January 23, 2025

American Federation of Musicians:

On your way to NAMM? 
Visit the AFM Booth (#7806) with representatives from Local 7 (Orange County, CA) and Local 47 (Los Angeles, CA). Current AFM members can pick up a gold lapel pin. pic.twitter.com/ZTpynQYFc8

— AFM (@The_AFM) January 22, 2025

American Federation of Teachers:

As educators, we know our duty is to create safe, welcoming spaces for all of our students. Our locals across the country are going above and beyond to do just that. Read our resource guide to help navigate these challenging times. https://t.co/AdKdbMwkpt

📸: @UFT pic.twitter.com/3nDdiHMpJ6

— AFT (@AFTunion) January 24, 2025

American Postal Workers Union:

This month in Labor History, we look back at two major strikes that shifted their industries: the nationwide General Electric and Westinghouse strike of 200,000 electrical workers; and the New York City Transit Strike which shut down the city’s public transit for 12 days. Learn…

— The American Postal Workers Union - APWU (@APWUnational) January 22, 2025

Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:

“The company needs to recognize the contributions we have made to its continued growth. We are hopeful that with the help of a federal mediator we will work with urgency to get the pay, benefits, and scheduling provisions we have earned.” https://t.co/4EMxsK2Mj9

— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) January 22, 2025

Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers:

Martin Luther King, Jr. knew unions are one of the best tools we have to dismantle systemic racism and build power for the working class.

BCTGM honors this #MLKDay by re-committing to The Dream through our activism and exceptional contracts. 🫱🏾‍🫲🏼 pic.twitter.com/it4bqfiNfi

— BCTGM International (@BCTGM) January 20, 2025

Boilermakers:

👍 Local D194 produces cement. What does your local fabricate or produce? pic.twitter.com/ixxiaJLBbp

— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) January 22, 2025

Bricklayers:

Completed projects, hard work, and dedicated training going down in BAC Local 3 #NY!#BestHandsInTheBusiness #UnionStrong #SkilledTrades #Apprenticeships pic.twitter.com/BpiyxPjfj4

— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) January 24, 2025

Coalition of Black Trade Unionists:

Keep Rising#MLK2025#1u#MLKDay pic.twitter.com/oaOyf9lgnx

— CBTU (@CBTU72) January 20, 2025

Communications Workers of America:

Congratulations to the United Academics of Philadelphia-CWA (UAP-CWA) for ratifying their first contract!https://t.co/rAA1HvU3q6

— CWA (@CWAUnion) January 19, 2025

Department for Professional Employees:

Congrats to the stagehands and technicians at the State Theatre in Portland, Maine who organized a union with @IATSE. https://t.co/dt9n2kehQr

— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) January 17, 2025

Electrical Workers:

British Columbia construction sites just got an upgrade. Thanks to lobbying by the #IBEW and other members of @WeBuildBC , jobsites with 25 or more workers now must provide flush toilets. https://t.co/A9n0jdVteK pic.twitter.com/mWAWnJnQfv

— IBEW (@IBEW) January 23, 2025

Heat and Frost Insulators:

Revitalizing the Sunport with Local 76 ✈️
Albuquerque International Sunport, New Mexico’s largest airport, is undergoing an extensive renovation as part of a national infrastructure effort. 

The signatory contractor, Yearout Mechanical, has been leading the work at the Sunport… pic.twitter.com/YVRLFYLv4c

— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) January 22, 2025

Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:

📰✨ Check out the latest edition of El Avance!
📣 Read an inspiring message from our National President and stay up to date on the incredible work being done by our LCLAA chapters across the country. 👉 Don’t miss out—read it now! 💪🏽 https://t.co/doRc0ZDcfp #ElAvance #lclaa

— LCLAA (@LCLAA) January 17, 2025

Labor Heritage Foundation:

🎙️ Today on Labor Heritage Power Hour (1pm @wpfwdc):
MLK in Memphis: Part 3 of AFSCME's I AM STORY podcast on the '68 sanitation strike
Joe Uehlein’s "Morning Song" tribute to Pete Seeger
Labor History in 2:00: The First MLK Day & Charleston Five https://t.co/NQj4Xpvwa9… pic.twitter.com/NVXuSV3yuG

— Labor Heritage (@LaborHeritage1) January 23, 2025

Laborers:

Can’t wait to hit the road again, visiting job sites and meeting the incredible people who make this union great — YOU. Where should I stop first? Drop your suggestions. #FeelThePower #LIUNA 

https://t.co/rsHNl85awC

— LIUNA (@LIUNA) January 24, 2025

Machinists:

🚨 BIG NEWS! The PACCAR (Kenworth) facility in Renton, WA, is receiving a major boost from Biden's @ENERGY grant program to transition to zero-emission vehicles!

Over 300 IAM members will benefit as this grant helps sustain and grow IAM union jobs.https://t.co/o53dlmAAw8

— Machinists Union (@MachinistsUnion) January 24, 2025

Metal Trades Department:

Today, we celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.—a great leader who dedicated his life to justice, freedom, and equality. His civil rights work is inextricably linked to labor rights. His vision continues to influence our fight daily. pic.twitter.com/ij6xmtmtsM

— Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) January 20, 2025

Mine Workers:

Dr. King had the same hopes and dreams we still fight for today. He taught us that despite challenges, hardships, and division we must keep moving forward. pic.twitter.com/zohMQ6v3kd

— United Mine Workers (@MineWorkers) January 20, 2025

Musical Artists:

AGMA Stands in Solidarity with the ARTS-MSM Precollege Faculty Union: https://t.co/OyXMhhQWCw pic.twitter.com/Oq6DU5075f

— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) January 22, 2025

National Air Traffic Controllers Association:

Limited edition merchandise for the NATCA Convention taking place in San Francisco May 9-11, 2025 is available to pre-order. Pre-order deadline: February 1, 2025, for guaranteed pickup at NATCA Convention. https://t.co/oS5xfqlF5m pic.twitter.com/mEeFlRaJxx

— NATCA (@NATCA) January 17, 2025

National Association of Letter Carriers:

DYK: Letter carriers deliver more than 376 million pieces of mail and packages to nearly 169 million addresses daily.

Postage and stamp sales fund our work, not tax dollars.

— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) January 23, 2025

National Day Laborer Organizing Network:

READ NOW! This in depth interview explores NDLON's, Pablo Alvardo's, journey from organizing in the ‘90s to now, mobilizing fire relief efforts out of @pasjobcenter to help uplift those who have been affected by these wild fires the most.https://t.co/XecQqhfnBD

— NDLON (@NDLON) January 22, 2025

National Domestic Workers Alliance:

Thank you, @harpersbazaarus, for highlighting our LA Wildfire Fund to help domestic workers.

Time and time again, we are reminded how essential they are to our communities, and it is time we show up for them. https://t.co/jv9DkthVUY

— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) January 24, 2025

National Federation of Federal Employees:

WFPPA Reintroduced, Message on LA Fires, Social Security Bill Signed into Law, and more - https://t.co/Nwecr5rvBF pic.twitter.com/F6aZE3IXjs

— NFFE (@NFFE_Union) January 17, 2025

National Nurses United:

🚨 New Orleans nurses strike vote alert! 🚨 

Nurses at @UMCNO voted to authorize a two-day strike to demand a strong contract in the face of management's union-busting stall tactics. Nurses say their proposals on issues like emergency preparedness have been ignored.

— NationalNursesUnited (@NationalNurses) January 23, 2025

National Taxi Workers Alliance:

Taxis & FHVs face a crisis as largest insurer is headed to insolvency. The approach to cut no fault by $150K saves drivers only $600/year in premium. It's a bad trade off. The solution is a driver co-op. Cut profits not coverage. @GovKathyHochulhttps://t.co/4sUd8v60MS

— NY Taxi Workers (@NYTWA) January 13, 2025

NWSL Players Association:

We’ve joined @bluesky and sent out our first post! Check it out here: https://t.co/lv5Wyf2eU3 pic.twitter.com/Rz3ocCq3If

— NWSLPA (@nwsl_players) January 24, 2025

NFL Players Association:

🚨The Final Five 🚨
After over 11K fan votes & picks from an external committee, we've narrowed the #CommunityMVPs to 5 finalists for the Alan Page Community Award!
Congrats to: 
@cambeezy_24@demariodavis@last_king_2
@slimslay_81@ryan_kelly70
🔗: https://t.co/kWozFXWDIw pic.twitter.com/7agAhMQddA

— NFLPA (@NFLPA) January 21, 2025

North America's Building Trades Unions:

REGISTRATION FOR LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE 2025 IS NOW OPEN.

Join us April 6-9 at the Washington, DC Hilton. Visit https://t.co/W8Tj7jswNl to register and for more information. pic.twitter.com/CEqg299irt

— The Building Trades (@NABTU) January 24, 2025

Office and Professional Employees:

Stand in solidarity with the staff of Planned Parenthood of Greater Ohio, who are unionizing with OPEIU Local 98!

Sign your name in support ➡️ https://t.co/ikqaPmu7g8 pic.twitter.com/yTZBaVIzJp

— OPEIU | #UnionStrong (@OPEIU) January 14, 2025

Painters and Allied Trades:

The IUPAT Black CORE Committee held the first ever Black CORE Cohort in November of last year – our members were able to keep developing their skills as leaders in our union and will bring it back to our jobsites and union halls! pic.twitter.com/GX2DEfdHqW

— IUPAT (@GoIUPAT) January 24, 2025

Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:

Good morning to the green vests of @reiunion Greensboro, who are voting in their union election today! Y’all GOT THIS, vote #UnionYES! pic.twitter.com/PzeijkLomB

— RWDSU (@RWDSU) January 24, 2025

Roofers and Waterproofers:

In the union, we lift each other up. Letting forgiveness heal & letting go help us thrive as a team. Together, we grow stronger every day!#RoofersUnion #BuiltToLast #UnionStrong #UnitedWeStand #UnionPower #TogetherWeRise #KeepPushingForward #NeverBackDown pic.twitter.com/tsP3DsqOyb

— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) January 23, 2025

SAG-AFTRA:

The late Ernest Borgnine was #BOTD in 1917. The WWII veteran had a career that spanned six decades, with notable roles in the films 'Marty' and 'McHale's Navy.' A beloved performer and #SagAftraMember, Borgnine received the SAG Life Achievement Award in 2011. pic.twitter.com/5EvDemPQ8F

— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) January 24, 2025

Service Employees International Union (SEIU):

Healthcare workers like Yolanda Navarro are fighting for ALL of us! 🩺✊ Congress, listen up: We won’t stand by while you threaten MEDI-Cal. Patients and workers deserve better. https://t.co/hx97XuDGbd

— SEIU (@SEIU) January 23, 2025

Solidarity Center:

Our partners the Firestone Agricultural Workers Union of Liberia (FAWUL) are bargaining for better living & working conditions at Bridgestone's Liberia rubber plantation ✊🏿. Join us in showing support & #solidarity by signing their petition: https://t.co/o2xVtcG9vX#WorkerRights

— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) January 23, 2025

The NewsGuild-CWA:

NEW: Journalists at nonprofit newsroom, EdSource, announced their intent to unionize today. ✊

The EdSource Guild is asking leadership at EdSource to recognize the union voluntarily!https://t.co/lIGTefuY6W

— The NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) January 17, 2025

Theatrical Stage Employees:

NEW CONTRACT: IATSE Local 87 (Richmond VA) and ASM Global are pleased to announce that a tentative agreement was reached over the weekend, and was ratified by an overwhelming 88% of eligible workers.

Segment featured on ABC 8 pic.twitter.com/9zFpd8qele

— IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) January 22, 2025

Transport Workers Union:

Congratulations to our International President John Samuelsen who is being named tonight Irishman of the Year and Aide to the Grand Marshal of the NYC St. Patrick’s Day Parade by the United Emerald Societies. ⁦@TwuSamuelsen⁩ #stpatricksdayparade #irish pic.twitter.com/vDB6rAC8D1

— TWU (@transportworker) January 23, 2025

Transportation Trades Department:

Catch the train with us in 2025! Always a pleasure visiting our partners at @Amtrak 🚆 pic.twitter.com/34ZnfwVF0t

— TTD | America's Transportation Unions (@TTDAFLCIO) January 24, 2025

UAW:

Daimler workers are ready to strike if necessary, when their contract expires Friday. Daimler has the money and can settle this today. Daimler, share the pie, not the crumbs! pic.twitter.com/EwI2mENsUP

— UAW (@UAW) January 23, 2025

UNITE HERE:

Enrique Fernández, UNITE HERE General VP for Immigration, Civil Rights & Diversity on protecting immigrant workers in the current environment:https://t.co/ar8eNnaUhM

— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) January 22, 2025

United Food and Commercial Workers:

Workers at the Cannabis 21+ dispensary in Mission Valley, San Diego, have voted to join @UFCW135

With the union backing them, these workers intend to secure better wages, benefits, and conditions.

Let’s get to work!

➡️ https://t.co/Zy4796z7GR pic.twitter.com/ZtDYopFj5P

— UFCW (@UFCW) January 23, 2025

United Steelworkers:

We're celebrating a few more 2024 wins our Rapid Response program helped deliver for workers – before we crush 2025💪 pic.twitter.com/PXOc80v6a1

— United Steelworkers #EverybodysUnion (@steelworkers) January 24, 2025

Utility Workers:

Hungry for more?

In the latest issue of The Utility Worker Magazine, Human Rights Committee Chair Darryl Taylor reminds us how @aflcio constituency groups can satisfy the need for connection, knowledge, and community support. https://t.co/8zMzqQQdPi pic.twitter.com/3aSkwpPYVl

— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) January 24, 2025

Writers Guild of America East:

Lucky 8 management is using one of the oldest tricks in the book, but their stalling won't discourage us. We'll continue to fight until workers at Lucky 8 have union recognition AND protections.

We're just getting started, @Lucky8TV. #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/Q0xKNKU3sy

— Writers Guild of America East (@WGAEast) January 23, 2025

Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 01/24/2025 - 11:04

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Workers Win—Culinary Reaches Deal with Virgin Hotels, Ends Strike

Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

The Culinary Union and Bartenders Union, affiliated with UNITE HERE, reached an agreement with Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, after a monthslong strike. The new contract, which passed unanimously, runs through Sept. 30, 2028. Some 700 union members will receive wage increases retroactive to when their last contract expired on June 1, 2023. The contract also includes increases in company contributions toward employee health care, pensions and other benefits. The workers have been on strike since November 2024.

"Virgin Hotels Las Vegas and the Culinary and Bartenders Union are pleased to be moving past their contract negotiations as each looks forward to fostering a positive and collaborative working relationship for the benefit of all team members at the property," said the Culinary Union.

Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 01/23/2025 - 10:14

Tags: Organizing

Worker Wins: Ensuring A Just and Respectful Workplace

Our latest roundup of worker wins includes numerous examples of working people organizing, bargaining and mobilizing for a better life.

IAM Members at IKEA Perryville Ratify New Contract: After more than two months on the picket line, workers represented by Machinists (IAM) Local I460, District 4 at the IKEA Distribution Center in Perryville, Maryland, have ratified a new contract. Members initially began their work stoppage last year on Nov. 15 after rejecting management’s proposal that would have stripped workers of their seniority rights and failed to keep up with the rising costs of living. “The members took to the picket lines demanding fair wages and protections for seniority to ensure a just and respectful workplace,” said IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan in a press release. “After weeks of negotiations, the new agreement delivers increased wages and preserves critical seniority language for employees with 18 or more years of service. Our members stood up strong for respect and dignity, which will make our union stronger. This contract ensures fairness and respect for long-serving employees while delivering well-earned wage increases for everyone. We are grateful for the community support during the strike.”

Brightline Onboard Workers Make History by Joining TWU: Onboard and lead attendants at Florida’s privately owned passenger railroad, Brightline, voted to join the Transport Workers Union (TWU) on Tuesday, making them the largest group of railroad workers who have successfully organized in more than two decades. These staff members—who sell concessions and provide other passenger services on trains running between Miami and Orlando—approached TWU last year in hopes of building a stronger voice on the job. Workers cited concerns around a restrictive sick time policy, unfair disciplinary processes and unpredictable work schedules. In response to their organizing efforts, Brightline hired notorious union-busting law firm Littler Mendelson and started rolling out aggressive tactics like having the company president call workers at home to intimidate them. But members refused to back down and ended up securing a 2-to-1 margin of victory in their election. “Brightline ran an ugly anti-union, anti-worker campaign against their own workforce, but let’s put that behind us,” TWU International President John Samuelsen said in a press release. “We’re committed to working to ensure the railroad is successful while helping our newest members secure better wages, better working conditions, respect in the workplace, and other goals that they set.”

Noguchi Museum Workers Vote Unanimously to Form Union: Staff at the Noguchi Museum in New York City voted unanimously this week to join UAW Local 2110. The Noguchi Union is a wall-to-wall unit that covers 55 workers across different departments at the cultural institution. Local 2110 also represents their peers at the Guggenheim Museum and the Whitney Museum of American Art. Members first went public with their organizing efforts a few months after the museum—which is dedicated to the works of vocal anti-war activist Isamu Noguchi—implemented a ban on Palestinian headscarves known as keffiyehs. This spurred workers to fight for representation so they can secure fair grievance procedures and protections against discrimination, among other issues like fair pay. “With a UNANIMOUS UNION YES VOTE WE WON OUR UNION ELECTION,” said the Noguchi Union in a social media post. “The Noguchi Museum staff is excited to announce the formation of its union! Our members seek to negotiate for a more equitable, inclusive, and transparent workplace.”

VA Memorial Products Service Employees Vote to Join AFGE: The Federal Labor Relations Authority last week officially certified the election where Veterans Affairs (VA) National Cemetery Administration’s (NCA’s) Memorial Products Service (MPS) workers successfully voted to join AFGE Local 17. These newly minted members work at three remote processing locations in Illinois, Kansas and Tennessee—before the COVID-19 pandemic, they had worked out of offices located at the cemeteries. Local 17 previously represented the workers in Tennessee and Kansas, but once they became remote, the NCA designated them as unrepresented. Now that MPS staff won their election, they’re looking forward to addressing things like overtime concerns and issues with performance evaluations. “I was really excited,” said Local 17 3rd Vice President Megan-Brady Viccellio. “Local 17 already represents several of these employees, and we’re really heartened that they wanted to come back to the fold. I think that they had experience with the protection of the really robust master agreement at VA. It was a 14 to zero vote. That speaks volumes about the value that they see.”

Temple University Hospital Resident Physicians and Fellows Vote to Form Union: Resident physicians and fellows at Temple University Hospital in Philadelphia have voted overwhelmingly to join the Committee of Interns and Residents (CIR), a local of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU). Resident physicians often work up to 80-hour weeks for relatively low pay as they complete the final stage of their medical training. CIR members have cited these conditions and chronic understaffing that impacts patient care as motivators for organizing. This victory at Temple is the latest in a string of recent resident organizing efforts at medical facilities around the city. “It’s time to put patients back at the center of our health-care system,” said Sarah Bart, a Temple resident. “We won our union, now we are preparing our campaign for a fair contract that puts resources in patient care and supports physicians’ and patients’ well-being.”

Colorado Ski Patrol Staff Join CWA, Latest in Resort Industry Organizing Efforts: Ski patrollers of Colorado's Arapahoe Basin ski area announced on Sunday that they have voted to join the United Mountain Workers, Communications Workers of America (CWA) Local 7781. Under the name Arapahoe Basin Ski Patrol (ABSP) Union, these staff members fought to organize in order to secure more competitive pay that reflects their specialized, critical work. Patrollers are employed by Alterra Mountain Company, which acquired Arapahoe Basin in November 2024 after an antitrust investigation by the Department of Justice, and have experienced an intense union-busting campaign from management.

Workers Overwhelmingly Vote to Form Union at Alabama Chemical Plant: Production and maintenance workers at the Gaylord Chemical manufacturing facility in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, voted last week to join the International Chemical Workers Union Council (ICWUC), part of the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW). Workers at the plant—who make chemical compounds used in medical and industrial solvents and food additives—reached out to the union a few months ago to begin their organizing efforts. Their landslide election win is even more exciting in the context of Alabama’s “right to work” laws and vocally anti-union lawmakers. “I just want to thank the [ICWUC] for getting behind us and supporting us. As soon as we reached out to them, they were quick to respond,” one Gaylord Chemical worker stated. Jordan Easley, ICWUC’s national organizing coordinator, said of the campaign victory: “[Workers] excelled when it came to open support, public support, and the numbers reflected that. They got what they deserve. Obviously most employers don’t want a union, but I think [Gaylord Chemical] were stopped in their tracks. They are reminded that you need workers more than workers need you.”

Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 01/22/2025 - 15:23

Tags: Organizing

We Will Not Be Silent, We Will Not Back Down: In the States Roundup

It's time once again to take a look at the ways working people are making progress in the states. Click on any of the links to follow the state federations on X (formerly Twitter).

Alaska AFL-CIO:

#akleg, it’s time to provide the funding needed to give a quality education to every child in Alaska! https://t.co/powTakKyvT

— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) January 22, 2025

Arizona AFL-CIO:

"The U.S. Department of Labor has obtained a consent judgment ordering two commonly owned Arizona drywall and painting companies to pay $7,450,000 in back wages and damages..."https://t.co/XHXMNbCmjt

— Arizona AFL-CIO (@ArizonaAFLCIO) January 17, 2025

California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:

We will not be silent, we will not back down. pic.twitter.com/N2tefjhgv8

— California Federation of Labor Unions (@CaliforniaLabor) January 21, 2025

Colorado AFL-CIO:

With a packed committee room full of support, and testimonies from many workers from a variety of sectors, the Worker Protection Act passed the Senate Business, Labor, & Technology Committee today! One step forward in the fight for the Worker Protection Act in Colorado! pic.twitter.com/holTzs97lu

— Colorado AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOCO) January 22, 2025

Illinois AFL-CIO:

🚨 📱 🚨 ACTION ALERT 🚨 📱 🚨 

Hotel Cass recently cut off union health insurance for UNITE HERE Local 1 and IUOE Local 399 members. They need your help demanding it back. 

Call Garnet Hotels and let them know our union siblings deserve their union healthcare! pic.twitter.com/AmZ4xTe8CS

— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) January 23, 2025

Maine AFL-CIO:

Our latest in our series about the history of nurse organizing: The First Union Contract at a Hospital in Maine! https://t.co/FliqGtYd5l

— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) January 21, 2025

Massachusetts AFL-CIO:

Statement from MA AFL-CIO President Chrissy Lynch on the Healey-Driscoll Admin’s proposed budget plan to permanently close the Pappas Rehab Hospital & Pocasset Mental Health Center, layoff 170 case managers in DMH, and hike insurance rates for 1000s of union members. #mapoli pic.twitter.com/n7f2QtZMSh

— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) January 22, 2025

Minnesota AFL-CIO:

He is setting the table to clear out the hundreds of thousands of hardworking Americans who make our government actually work and replace them with political loyalists who will do his bidding. #BetterInAUnion https://t.co/TbGyR72ozA

— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) January 22, 2025

Missouri AFL-CIO:

Tell the young people in your life to consider a #Union apprenticeship to get a head start of earning for the future! #1u #UnionJobs #Apprenticeship pic.twitter.com/qhVvk9dW9z

— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) January 22, 2025

Nevada State AFL-CIO:

When we fight, we win! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 https://t.co/CLMusjsUtE

— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) January 22, 2025

New Hampshire AFL-CIO:

In -10°, 200 brothers and sisters came together to oppose “Right-to-Work. Your #Solidarity is our strength. We need your help!

Use this link to send a letter to your legislator saying that “Right-to-Work” is STILL WRONG for NH:https://t.co/QP4RyjZZTs#NHPolitics #1u https://t.co/p2FKAbdcUs pic.twitter.com/DTiOpSBK5k

— New Hampshire AFL-CIO (@NHAFLCIO) January 23, 2025

New York State AFL-CIO:

Today and every day we are grateful for the strides Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. made for desegregation, equal voting rights, civil rights and the labor movement. #MLKDay pic.twitter.com/B8hf8tsQ3D

— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) January 20, 2025

Ohio AFL-CIO:

It was never about fighting for us. It was always about protecting billionaires. https://t.co/DX7NoQuZWU

— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) January 20, 2025

 

Oregon AFL-CIO:

Come hold the line with striking Providence workers at Prov. St. Vincent on Friday, 1/24 at noon! Wear your union colors and help win a fair contract for @OregonNurses members on strike. #OregonLabor pic.twitter.com/iaPWAr28qu

— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) January 23, 2025

Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:

Today, we honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a champion for workers’ rights, economic justice, and equality. His legacy inspires the us to continue the fight for fair wages, safe workplaces, and dignity for all workers. ✊🏾 pic.twitter.com/QbdBbIKik2

— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) January 20, 2025

Texas AFL-CIO:

Texas Republicans’ budget:

❌ ZERO pension increases for retired state employees
❌ $1B for a private school voucher scam
❌ $6.5B for Abbott’s “border security” pet project

Our lawmakers should be listening to working Texans, not their billionaire buddies. #txlege

— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) January 22, 2025

Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:

Register for the virtual panel here:https://t.co/WzzzRk0RAj https://t.co/2UyPcBVjFH

— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) January 22, 2025

Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:

Wisconsin AFL-CIO President Stephanie Bloomingdale responds to Governor Evers' 2025 State of the State address https://t.co/hpGfNzSC9X

— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) January 23, 2025

Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 01/22/2025 - 10:49

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Workers at Some of D.C.’s Best-Known Restaurants Move to Join UNITE HERE

Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

Staff at five different prominent restaurants owned by some of Washington, D.C.’s biggest restaurateurs went public with their efforts to join UNITE HERE Local 25 last week.

Workers at Le Diplomate, St. Anselm and Pastis—owned by Stephen Starr’s
Starr Restaurants—and Rasika Penn Quarter and Modena—owned by Ashok Bajaj’s Knightsbridge Restaurant Group—are fighting for better scheduling practices, higher pay and respect on the job.

“The status quo in restaurants is that anything goes as long as the guests are happy, and I’ve personally witnessed some unfair treatment, a little bit of cultural insensitivity,” said Pablo Zuniga, a server at Le Diplomate. “Having a union would place us in a better position to have mutual respect from management, no matter your background, no matter your race, your gender identity, or your language.”

Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 01/22/2025 - 09:14

Tags: Organizing

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Nurses March to Demand Patient Protections Against AI

Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

Thousands of nurses represented by National Nurses United (NNU) took part in rallies last week calling for the hospitals to prioritize safe staffing and patient protections against growing artificial intelligence (AI) technologies.

These nationwide demonstrations were aimed at uplifting the broad shared concern among nurses over the current implementation of AI by hospital employers and policy regulators. In a survey released last year, NNU found that 50% of responders have seen their employer implement algorithmic systems to assess things like how ill the patient is and predict the number of hours of nursing care they will need. Of those nurses, 69% said the computer-generated measurements did not match their informed assessments and lacked consideration of important, complex social factors that were at play.

“[N]urses across the country are taking to the streets to let our communities know that in 2025, as in all years past, we are committed to providing the highest quality of care for every patient,” said Nancy Hagans, RN and a president of NNU, in a press release. “We will fight fearlessly against the profit-driven hospital industry, which seeks to undermine nursing care through unconscionable understaffing and reckless automation.”

Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 01/21/2025 - 10:28

Ready to Push Back: 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.

AFL-CIO & SEIU Are Reuniting in the United States—13 Million Trade Union Members Ready to Push Back: “The AFL-CIO and the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) announced on Thursday that they are reuniting to launch ‘a new, long-term effort to make it easier for workers to win a voice on our jobs with their unions’. Two million SEIU service and care workers will join the nearly 13 million-member AFL-CIO, and together, these powerful organisations will push back on union-busting and win for working-class families. The unions formally announced the affiliation at a roundtable discussion with workers who are fighting to win their unions on Thursday in advance of the AFL-CIO’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Civil and Human Rights Conference, which started yesterday. The workers will share their stories of why they need new rules to make it easier to join together in unions. The joint statement said: ‘At a critical moment when everything is on the line for the nation’s working people, the labour movement is uniting to challenge the status quo and build a movement of workers who will fight—on the job, in the streets, at the ballot box, in our communities—for higher pay, expanded benefits and new rules that empower them to join together in unions and organise across industries.”

Joe Biden: The Best President Labor Ever Had : “As Joe Biden gets ready to leave the White House Jan. 20, one verdict is clear: He kept his often-repeated pledge to be the most pro-union president in U.S. history. For four years, at every level of his administration, he and his appointees went out of their way to support unions and union labor.”

Stagehands and Technicians at Portland’s State Theatre Have Unionized: “Nearly three dozen technicians and stagehands at Portland’s State Theatre have unionized. The 35 employees who help the theatre’s shows come to life will join Local 114 of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees after winning their National Labor Relations Board election to unionize on Tuesday.”

Trump’s Plan to Slash Federal Jobs Puts Black Workers at Risk: “President–elect Donald Trump’s plans to shrink the federal workforce would have disparate impacts on Black employment, while potentially eroding a key conduit to economic mobility that many Black families have relied on for generations. Some researchers say a substantial cutback could push the Black unemployment rate higher, particularly in areas like Washington, D.C., where Black joblessness is among the highest in the country. Such an outcome would stand at odds with Trump’s campaign promises to protect Black workers’ jobs and provide them with more employment opportunities.”

Brightline Onboard Workers Sign On with TWU: “The approximately 100 onboard and lead attendants at Brightline, Florida’s private-sector passenger railroad, have voted to join Transport Workers Union of America (TWU). The National Mediation Board announced the election results on Jan. 14 in Washington, D.C., after weeks of balloting, which began Nov. 27, according to TWU. The Brightline workers, who sell food and beverages and provide other services on trains between Miami and Orlando, Fla., voted to join TWU on a roughly two-to-one margin, the union said.”

The Labor Movement Won Big Victories in 2024. Now It Must Fend Off Trump: “Organized labor is currently preparing to fight back. Just a week into 2025 the SEIU announced that it was rejoining the AFL-CIO to help fight Trump’s anti-worker agenda. The two unions have been unaligned for almost 20 years. In remarks made at a roundtable discussion shortly after the decision, AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler stressed the need for solidarity among workers. ‘We just finished an election cycle where one party spent the entire time telling working class people across this country, ‘Look how different you are from each other,’’ said Shuler. ‘He’s an immigrant. She’s transgender or they worship differently than you do’ and it worked to some degree, right? We watched it. The scariest thing in the world to the CEOs, to the billionaires in this country and the folks like Donald Trump who do their bidding, is the idea that we might one day see through that.”

Nurses Across U.S. to Rally Over AI Safeguards: “On Jan. 16, thousands of registered nurses will hold marches, protests and rallies to demand the hospital industry ensure safe staffing levels and artificial intelligence safeguards, a Jan. 14 National Nurses United news release said. ’Patient advocacy is at the core of what we do as nurses,‘ Nancy Hagans, RN, president of NNU, said in the release. ’That’s why we’re demanding safe staffing and protections against untested technologies such as AI. We see the harm that these cost-cutting schemes cause our patients on a daily basis.‘”

2.5 Million Americans Were Once Denied Social Security Benefits. A New Law Changes That: “‘For years, members were bringing this up and and asking for it to be changed, because it had such an impact, especially on our lower paid employees, like our paraprofessionals, who often are living paycheck to paycheck and working multiple jobs,’ said Cropper, who also serves as Secretary-Treasurer of the Ohio AFL-CIO.”

From Mental Health to Class Solidarity: Workforce Trends to Watch In 2025: “Still, workers at Google’s Pittsburgh contractor HCL unionized in 2021, the Bethesda Game Studios workers voted to join the Communications Workers of America union, and Code for America reached a collective bargaining agreement with its union, CFA Workers United in 2023. The numbers in these early examples may be small, but as labor unions continue to expand their reach into previously unorganized sectors, expect to see a greater emphasis on fair pay, better working conditions, and broader social benefits for workers.”

CES 2025: Hollywood Unions Battle to Contain AI Disruptions in Creative Industries: “The increasing capabilities of generative AI systems were all the rage at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas this year, but for all the enthusiasm from the tech world, there is still plenty of concern about the impact these tools will have on the workforce, from industrial and service work to creative industries, including entertainment, film and TV. So while the crowds were jamming the aisles of the Las Vegas Convention Center, representatives of America’s biggest unions were meeting down the street at the AFL-CIO’s Labor Innovation and Technology Summit to coordinate strategy around AI and try to ensure that workers have a seat at the table when it comes to setting policy around AI. Co-founded by SAG-AFTRA, the AFL-CIO, and the AFL-CIO Tech Institute, the LIT Summit brings together top labor leaders, worker advocates, policy experts, and allied organizations to discuss workers’ role in emerging technologies, as Big Tech’s role in the market and the halls of government evolves, according to the organization. Some of the unions in attendance such as the machinists have been engaged around issues of automation for decades, while others like those representing teachers and nurses are looking to ensure that new AI-driven innovations in education and medicine are deployed in collaboration and consultation with frontline workers rather than imposed from above.”

Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 01/17/2025 - 12:07

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: VA Memorial Products Service Employees Vote to Join AFGE

Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

The Federal Labor Relations Authority last week officially certified the election where Veterans Affairs (VA) National Cemetery Administration’s (NCA’s) Memorial Products Service (MPS) workers successfully voted to join AFGE Local 17.

These newly minted members work at three remote processing locations in Illinois, Kansas and Tennessee—before the COVID-19 pandemic, they had worked out of offices located at the cemeteries. Local 17 previously represented the workers in Tennessee and Kansas, but once they became remote, the NCA designated them as unrepresented. Now that MPS staff won their election, they’re looking forward to addressing things like overtime concerns and issues with performance evaluations.

“I was really excited,” said Local 17 3rd Vice President Megan-Brady Viccellio. “Local 17 already represents several of these employees, and we’re really heartened that they wanted to come back to the fold. I think that they had experience with the protection of the really robust master agreement at VA. It was a 14 to zero vote. That speaks volumes about the value that they see.”

Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 01/17/2025 - 10:57

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Nevada Cannabis Workers at Ayr Wellness Ratify First Union Contract

Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

Last week, 120 Ayr Wellness workers across three dispensaries and one delivery depot located in Las Vegas and Henderson, Nevada, overwhelmingly voted to ratify their first union contract. The dispensary and delivery workers are represented by United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 711.

The contract includes armed security at dispensaries, improved access to affordable health care and better scheduling opportunities.

“Today, we stand victorious—not because it was easy, but because we refused to give up,” said Chase Payne, an Ayr Wellness budtender from the Las Vegas Eastern Avenue location. “This contract represents more than just words on paper; it’s a testament to our resilience, unity and unwavering commitment to the cannabis industry. We fought for fair wages, safe conditions and respect—not just for ourselves, but for everyone who will come after us. This victory proves that when we stand together, we are unstoppable. The UFCW was there for us in a time of need and we wouldn’t be in this position without their support and guidance. But our work doesn’t stop here. We will continue to show the Las Vegas area and beyond what the UFCW is all about. Because together, we are not just workers—we are union employees!”

Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 01/16/2025 - 10:02

In Demand Like Never Before: 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:

Swings from around the country sent in their thoughts on various aspects of the work they do. Swipe through for some thoughts from #equityteamswing! pic.twitter.com/L7M89j0SjY

— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) January 15, 2025

AFGE:

We say this time and time again. 

Federal workers do NOT engage in political work while on government time. That is explicitly prohibited by the Hatch Act and our union adheres to that law.

Period.

— AFGE (@AFGENational) January 15, 2025

AFSCME:

In 2024, cultural workers from coast to coast organized for a voice on the job or celebrated contract wins as members of @cwuafscme. Watch this video. https://t.co/pzN9t45iYK

— AFSCME (@AFSCME) January 14, 2025

Alliance for Retired Americans:

If the Supreme Court overturns the ACA's preventive care mandate, it will be harder for older Americans to get critical screenings and wellness visits. #ProtectOurCare https://t.co/XLgJ8hlvm4

— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) January 14, 2025

Amalgamated Transit Union:

Congratulations to our bus mechanic apprenticeship graduates at Local 1070-Indianapolis, IN, and IndyGo. This is the ATU’s first bus mechanic apprenticeship program under the leadership of International President John Costa. The graduates included IndyGo’s first female bus…

— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) January 14, 2025

American Federation of Musicians:

Check out DOL's guest post on NEA's blog spotlighting the Philadelphia Theatre Company, where AFM, Equity, and IATSE members have negotiated for pay & policies to promote sustainable careers... https://t.co/UxHivGnATD

— AFM (@The_AFM) January 15, 2025

American Federation of Teachers:

A broken system hurts every patient & every family. 

In Oregon, physicians, RNs, & others are on strike to demand Providence address unsafe staffing levels in emergency rooms & unfair wages. Add your name & tell Providence to put #PatientsBeforeProfits. https://t.co/agwzDmffZl

— AFT (@AFTunion) January 14, 2025

American Postal Workers Union:

“Postal workers proved once again that, when given the proper resources, you can sort and deliver mail promptly and efficiently – just as the law requires.” Industrial Relations Director Charlie Cash calls on members to oppose any degradation of service. https://t.co/AAoKiiulvp

— The American Postal Workers Union - APWU (@APWUnational) January 15, 2025

Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:

It's been 16 years since US Airways Flight 1549 landed in the icy waters of New York’s Hudson River. The "Miracle on the Hudson" would not have been a miracle without everyone doing exactly what needed to be done at just the right moment. We are aviation’s first responders. pic.twitter.com/x3uTo3cBZJ

— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) January 15, 2025

Boilermakers:

The winter issue of the #Boilermaker Reporter is on the way or in your mailbox now. 📫 Be sure to read your copy or find it online: https://t.co/k0xOziuYh0 pic.twitter.com/rZFry2COJI

— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) January 14, 2025

Bricklayers:

Happy #WorkSiteWednesday everyone! 

This week, we have a video from our brothers over at BAC ADC of NJ Locals 4 & 5 and signatory contractor Baumgardner Finishings Company at Ocean County Vo-Tech School! 

Keep up the good work guys!#BestHandsInTheBusiness pic.twitter.com/1ocP8bVS30

— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) January 15, 2025

Communications Workers of America:

Physical and occupational therapists at Alternate Solutions Health Network (ASHN) in Northern Virginia - members of CWA Local 2252 - are holding a 1-day ULP strike. It is time for ASHN to bargain in good faith! pic.twitter.com/bBRmhu7tgQ

— CWA (@CWAUnion) January 13, 2025

Department for Professional Employees:

We continue to stand with @IATSE members at the Atlantic Theater Company on strike because management refuses to negotiate a fair contract. https://t.co/ouSwIunuLw

— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) January 14, 2025

Electrical Workers:

Electrical work is in demand like never before. Here's how the #IBEW will win it. https://t.co/LB4ZxJLwXo pic.twitter.com/wFHy5muFBp

— IBEW (@IBEW) January 14, 2025

Heat and Frost Insulators:

Our thoughts & prayers are with our Brothers & Sisters impacted by the California wildfires.

If you are a member in need of assistance due to displacement or damage, please contact our International office for support.

➡️ Contact us or share with a member in need:… pic.twitter.com/Yv9VWCYGC4

— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) January 10, 2025

Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:

🔥 The wildfires in South California have left countless families in need of urgent support. Together we can make a difference! Donate to the LCLAA Emergency Relief Fund to provide relief and resources to those affected. pic.twitter.com/kPDYjOFvVk

— LCLAA (@LCLAA) January 14, 2025

Labor Heritage Foundation:

Voting in the first-ever Labor Grammys closes on January 17!https://t.co/BTCQb5gwFI pic.twitter.com/ksybcKCVUi

— Labor Heritage (@LaborHeritage1) January 14, 2025

Laborers:

👏 Thank you to the thousands of LIUNA members who made your voices heard! Your letters to OSHA in support of heat safety standards are a step toward creating safer workplaces for all. Together, we’re raising the bar for worker protections and building a stronger future.… pic.twitter.com/7ULeaCEHgz

— LIUNA (@LIUNA) January 15, 2025

Machinists:

This webinar will feature Q&A with an IAM member from Tempus AI, Rebecca Sellnow, who is a molecular technologist!

Tune in to hear about how professional employees can get started with unionizing ⚙️💪 https://t.co/WxU7JOKsDr

— Machinists Union (@MachinistsUnion) January 14, 2025

Metal Trades Department:

U.S. President Joe Biden’s administration has concluded that China uses unfair policies and practices to dominate the global maritime, logistics, and shipbuilding sectors. https://t.co/2SEWz6TeL9

— Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) January 13, 2025

National Association of Letter Carriers:

Mark your calendars 📅 for Saturday, May 10, 2025: The #StampOutHunger Food Drive is just around the corner! 

Letter carriers nationwide will collect donations to help restock local food banks. Together, we can help neighbors in need and make a difference! pic.twitter.com/ulePjTRF3n

— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) January 14, 2025

National Day Laborer Organizing Network:

“Roberto Morales, another day laborer who volunteered his time in the Service Brigade said he felt very thankful and emotional to see the amount of volunteers.”https://t.co/goCmcUk2iz

— NDLON (@NDLON) January 10, 2025

National Domestic Workers Alliance:

Thank you @harpersbazaarus for highlighting our 'We Care: Domestic Workers Relief Fund' providing emergency financial assistance, medical care, and supplies to domestic workers.https://t.co/jv9DktitKw

— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) January 14, 2025

National Nurses United:

This week: Nurses will march nationwide in support of safe staffing and patient protections against #AI. 

In our National Day of Action, thousands of nurses will demand the hospital industry ensure patient safety amidst fast-growing A.I. https://t.co/1ci3hbMOe1

— NationalNursesUnited (@NationalNurses) January 14, 2025

NFL Players Association:

Our hearts are with those impacted by the Los Angeles wildfires. pic.twitter.com/2qMysAdM69

— NFLPA (@NFLPA) January 10, 2025

North America's Building Trades Unions:

NABTU’s partnership with @RowanUniversity is shaping the next generation of construction managers. Courses are entirely online, providing flexible, affordable, and accessible learning tailored to adult students’ schedules.https://t.co/tIBWGG1tuo

— The Building Trades (@NABTU) January 14, 2025

Office and Professional Employees:

Stand in solidarity with the staff of Planned Parenthood of Greater Ohio, who are unionizing with OPEIU Local 98!

Sign your name in support ➡️ https://t.co/ikqaPmu7g8 pic.twitter.com/yTZBaVIzJp

— OPEIU | #UnionStrong (@OPEIU) January 14, 2025

Painters and Allied Trades:

IUPAT members, we’d love to hear from you and spotlight current or past projects. Post in the comments, or send us a DM with the best pictures you have! pic.twitter.com/b3YjpeKbXP

— IUPAT (@GoIUPAT) January 15, 2025

Plasterers and Cement Masons:

“Registered Apprenticeships let young people & adults ‘earn & learn’, combining hands-on training with coursework—and they are paid to do it... The average apprenticeship grad earns $80,000 annually, far above the state’s median household income.” https://t.co/pYW6KoJxu8

— OPCMIA International (@opcmiaintl) January 13, 2025

Professional Aviation Safety Specialists:

"PASS told a Senate committee that the FAA is too slow to develop its technical workforce and is not moving fast enough to stay ahead of aging infrastructure." @PASSprezdc Dave Spero on @FederalNewsNet Federal Drive w/Tom Temin #aviationsafety #federalemployees @publicservice

— PASS (@PASSNational) January 8, 2025

Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:

Happy Birthday, Martin Luther King, Jr! We’ll never forget all the times that MLK showed up for our union. Check out this scan of a 1991 RWDSU Record featuring the entire timeline of MLK’s relationship with the RWDSU.
Learn more about RWDSU’s MLK history: https://t.co/ZyzWLJwyeC pic.twitter.com/nV5ywhSvnt

— RWDSU (@RWDSU) January 15, 2025

Roofers and Waterproofers:

Just a reminder to never cross a picket line! Hope our @Culinary226 sisters and brothers at @VirginHotelsLV get the contract they deserve. #Solidarity #UnionStrong https://t.co/BeLv44R6xv

— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) January 15, 2025

SAG-AFTRA:

WATCH NOW! SAG-AFTRA NED @DuncanCI and @sagaftraFOUND ED Cyd Wilson had a conversation about the Los Angeles wildfire resources available to #SagAftraMembers. Watch on Instagram!

Part 1: https://t.co/5c0yxv8vZL
Part 2: https://t.co/H4eHMh9Unb
Part 3: https://t.co/lHfNTfyHue pic.twitter.com/rbAPSmMFVn

— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) January 14, 2025

Service Employees International Union:

2M SEIU Members 🤝 13M AFL-CIO Members

SEIU just joined America’s biggest federation of labor unions, the @AFLCIO. Together, we’re taking on corporate union busters and changing the rules so every worker who wants a union can have one. Let’s do this! pic.twitter.com/KK0cKnSSYW

— SEIU (@SEIU) January 9, 2025

Solidarity Center:

The Firestone Agricultural Workers Union of Liberia - FAWUL - is bargaining for better living & working conditions at Bridgestone's Liberia rubber plantation ✊🏿 Stand in solidarity with our partners by signing their petition. 

🖋️ sign here https://t.co/o2xVtcGHlv#WorkerRights

— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) January 12, 2025

The NewsGuild-CWA:

Destructive wildfires in Southern California have destroyed the homes of at least three of our members. At least 30 Guild members have been directly impacted in evacuation zones along with 220 other CWA members: https://t.co/usJ1OsxYv5

— The NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) January 13, 2025

Theatrical Stage Employees:

Workers worked so hard to put on their shows, but the unit of nearly 100 workers at the Atlantic Theater Company UNANIMOUSLY voted to authorize a strike because they deserve healthcare and a living wage!

Segment featured on Fox 5, Good Day New York pic.twitter.com/QsXd5dRHGB

— IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) January 15, 2025

Transport Workers Union:

Onboard @GoBrightline workers have voted 2-1 to join the Transport Workers Union, overcoming opposition from management that urged a contingent of more than 100 employees not to organize. @SunSentinel https://t.co/7R56VGgKCj

— TWU (@transportworker) January 15, 2025

Transportation Trades Department:

Once again, workers refuse to be silenced by corporate greed and union busting tactics. 

Congratulations to @transportworker and Brightline workers on this organizing victory! https://t.co/iG4MuvCXlu

— TTD | America's Transportation Unions (@TTDAFLCIO) January 14, 2025

UAW:

UAW National Ford and Sub-Council meetings are taking place this week in Chattanooga, TN. These meetings are an important opportunity for local and national leadership to come together and strategize for the coming year. pic.twitter.com/tKaiGE2Ms5

— UAW (@UAW) January 15, 2025

UNITE HERE:

UNITE HERE leaders joined our siblings from across the labor movement in Las Vegas this week for CES and the #LITSummit.@SAGAFTRA @AFTunion @WeAreALPA @ATUComm @MachinistsUnion @IATSE @NationalNurses @RWDSU @TTDAFLCIO @transportworker pic.twitter.com/dPzyDebirq

— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) January 10, 2025

United Food and Commercial Workers:

Recently, workers at The Convalarium of Dublin nursing home in OH, have officially joined UFCW Local 1059!

The now members, reached out to the local after conversations revealed shared concerns about erratic scheduling & pay inaccuracies.

➡️ https://t.co/hvJeh2KqKi pic.twitter.com/0dqzEXyziT

— UFCW (@UFCW) January 14, 2025

United Steelworkers:

In 2024, we achieved significant victories for workers through Rapid Response, our grassroots education and action program addressing legislative issues that affect working families. 

Let’s take a moment to celebrate what we achieved together over the past year 👏. pic.twitter.com/x9NAmkvfhc

— United Steelworkers #EverybodysUnion (@steelworkers) January 15, 2025

Utility Workers:

On an average day, Melissa Suarez of UWUA local 129 handles around 100 calls. Every call is different, which keeps things interesting. 🧵 pic.twitter.com/Asczmv1Y1N

— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) January 15, 2025

Writers Guild of America East:

Nonfiction production workers at Lucky 8 have UNIONIZED with the WGAE! 

There's no need for management to roll the dice, our demand is clear: voluntary recognition without delay or division. #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/LU8XAicdpa

— Writers Guild of America East (@WGAEast) January 14, 2025

Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 01/15/2025 - 10:01

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Workers Overwhelmingly Vote to Form Union at Alabama Chemical Plant

Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

Production and maintenance workers at the Gaylord Chemical manufacturing facility in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, voted last week to join the International Chemical Workers Union Council (ICWUC), part of the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW).

Workers at the plant—who make chemical compounds used in medical and industrial solvents and food additives—reached out to the union a few months ago to begin their organizing efforts. Their landslide election win is even more exciting in the context of Alabama’s “right to work” laws and vocally anti-union lawmakers.

“I just want to thank the [ICWUC] for getting behind us and supporting us. As soon as we reached out to them, they were quick to respond,” one Gaylord Chemical worker stated.

Jordan Easley, ICWUC’s national organizing coordinator, said of the campaign victory: “[Workers] excelled when it came to open support, public support, and the numbers reflected that. They got what they deserve. Obviously most employers don’t want a union, but I think [Gaylord Chemical] were stopped in their tracks. They are reminded that you need workers more than workers need you.”

Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 01/15/2025 - 09:41

Standing with Every Worker and Family Impacted By the Los Angeles Fires: In the States Roundup

It's time once again to take a look at the ways working people are making progress in the states. Click on any of the links to follow the state federations on X (formerly Twitter).

Alaska AFL-CIO:

Labor Bleeds for the Cause is happening this weekend!

Pre-register for the event by signing up at: https://t.co/9ccml6RKF0

Have questions about donating blood? Check out this FAQ from the Blood Bank of Alaska: https://t.co/SsGgIxWkMY pic.twitter.com/99MwrCA7qX

— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) January 14, 2025

Arizona AFL-CIO:

Today is the opening day of the 57th Legislature, tune in to watch Governor Hobbs' State of the State Address: https://t.co/najxHz6aYm

— Arizona AFL-CIO (@ArizonaAFLCIO) January 13, 2025

California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:

Our @CaliforniaLabor family is standing with every worker and family impacted by the #lafires. Check out housing assistance, food assistance, and more emergency resources and union relief funds HERE➡️@LALabor @AFLCIO https://t.co/k9obY4rfrD pic.twitter.com/jJFurq5j9S

— California Federation of Labor Unions (@CaliforniaLabor) January 11, 2025

Colorado AFL-CIO:

In the Free State of Colorado, it only makes sense that the state government stays out of union-employer collective bargaining negotiations. Pass SB 5- the Worker Protection Act! @GovofCO @jaredpolis #coleg #copolitics

— Colorado AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOCO) January 9, 2025

Connecticut AFL-CIO:

Proudly representing CT at this year's #MLK2025 Civil & Human Rights Conference, CT AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer @ShellyeDavis & Political Director Joelyn Leon join with AFL-CIO @STRedmond to declare there is #PowerInUnity! pic.twitter.com/o4qYLuD7BE

— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) January 10, 2025

Illinois AFL-CIO:

“CEOs and billionaires want nothing more than to see workers divided, but we’re standing here today with greater solidarity than ever,” said AFL-CIO president Liz Shuler.https://t.co/Jmps63g6X7 pic.twitter.com/mKaFifWbnP

— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) January 14, 2025

Maine AFL-CIO:

The signing of the Social Security Fairness Act repealing offset penalties for public workers was the product of a true bipartisan grass roots movement of workers & unions. Thank you @SenatorCollins for taking the ball & running with it!
https://t.co/27kjoMcbyx

— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) January 10, 2025

Massachusetts AFL-CIO:

Please join @BTU66 and the labor community for informational pickets this Thursday, January 16th, before the school day.

Pick a Boston school near you or join one of these :
◦Charlestown High School: 7:00–7:20 a.m.
◦Curley K-8: 7:55–8:20 a.m.
◦Tobin K-8: 8:50–9:10 a.m.

— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) January 14, 2025

Minnesota AFL-CIO:

We're accepting scholarship applications for high school seniors! Applicants must be a union member or dependent of a member, have a straight “B” average, and plan to attend a post-secondary institution within Minnesota. Apply at https://t.co/yRQRBExcIP #BetterInAUnion pic.twitter.com/D2XJ8UPbPx

— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) January 13, 2025

Missouri AFL-CIO:

Enjoy a bowl of #UnionMade soup this month! #BuyUnion #Solidarity pic.twitter.com/cf0XSxflri

— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) January 13, 2025

Nevada State AFL-CIO:

The Nevada State AFL-CIO held a labor legislative meeting on Thursday and Friday evening where affiliates had the opportunity to discuss labor’s legislative priorities for the upcoming legislative session. We thank all of the attendees and elected officials for joining! pic.twitter.com/Tt0Pk1WMd7

— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) January 11, 2025

New Hampshire AFL-CIO:

“Right-to-Work” (HB238-FN) is back. 

The first public hearing is on 1/22 @ 10:00 AM. Please stand in #Solidarity with NH working families and sign in to register your opposition by using this link: https://t.co/1XUMH2yEEm#NHPolitics #1u #RTW pic.twitter.com/eyduSvUSEk

— New Hampshire AFL-CIO (@NHAFLCIO) January 10, 2025

New York State AFL-CIO:

Scenes from our State of the State Breakfast this morning. Thanks to all who attended! #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/aR5VEGChYF

— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) January 14, 2025

North Carolina State AFL-CIO:

NC Republicans are trying to steal this election, period. It's past time for Jefferson Griffin to concede that Allison Riggs won! N.C. Supreme Court blocks certification of Democrat as winner of close high court race https://t.co/Splemkpyzu via @nbcnews #ncpol

— NC State AFL-CIO // #CountMeIn (@NCStateAFLCIO) January 8, 2025

Ohio AFL-CIO:

This morning, #Ohio @AFLCIO President Tim Burga visited the @Oapse4 @AFSCME members on strike at the @EFCTS for dignity and respect. Please call Superintendent Shelly Groves (614-836-4530 ext. 1332) and let her know these dedicated workers deserve a fair contract. pic.twitter.com/sdXMGEWPp3

— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) January 14, 2025

Oregon AFL-CIO:

It's about safely caring for patients, dignity, and respect. 

And we're with @OregonNurses members every step of the way. https://t.co/B8NQKBNZXt

— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) January 13, 2025

Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:

The trades are calling! Earn a livable wage, health insurance and retirement benefits – all while working on a job site and learning your craft. pic.twitter.com/7lBuRPGdFW

— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) January 10, 2025

Texas AFL-CIO:

Working Texans deserve a legislature that works for THEM, not billionaires and corporations.

With our Fair Shot Legislative Agenda, we’re demanding lawmakers deliver on 10 pro-worker priorities.

Stand with Texas workers and add your name TODAY! #txlege https://t.co/iraMEr4694

— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) January 14, 2025

Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:

Aaaand we’re off. The 2025 Legislative session kicks off today and here is our fearless President, April Sims, with our top 6 Bills for raising wages and improving jobs for workers in Washington State. pic.twitter.com/JYy3BD47Ce

— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) January 13, 2025

Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:

Workers say Amazon is now deploying its union-busting "science" at Whole Foods https://t.co/QZGZueNpoR

— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) January 14, 2025

Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 01/14/2025 - 10:15

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Union Heroes: Firefighters Battle Southern California Wildfires

Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

As devastating wildfires rage in the Los Angeles neighborhood of Pacific Palisades, dedicated members of the California Professional Firefighters are working tirelessly to help battle the disaster and protect residents. Fire Fighters (IAFF) General Secretary-Treasurer Frank Líma (second from left) was on the ground with elected officials in California this week to meet with first responders and support relief efforts.

If you want to donate to help out or have been impacted by the destruction and need resources, the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor and its community service arm, Labor Community Services, have information and a relief fund set up online.

LA Fed Wildfire Resources

Los Angeles Fire Relief Fund

Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 01/14/2025 - 09:59

Worker Wins: A Significant Victory for Worker Justice

Our latest roundup of worker wins includes numerous examples of working people organizing, bargaining and mobilizing for a better life.

Park City Ski Patrollers Union Ratifies New Contract: Members of the Park City Professional Ski Patrol Association (PCPSPA), CWA Local 7781, unanimously ratified a new collective bargaining agreement Wednesday after a powerful 12-day strike. Members are celebrating wins, including a fairer wage structure and an improved benefits package, that will foster higher retention rates and career growth. Ski patrollers went on strike after Vail Resorts—which manages Park City Mountain Resort—refused to offer a fair compensation proposal that helped staff keep up with the high regional cost of living. “This is more than just a win for our unit, it is a great success for everyone in the ski and mountain industry,” PCPSPA said in a statement posted to social media. “This is a clear example of what can be achieved when workers stand together and fight for what we deserve. We could not have done this without the support of our community. We are eternally grateful to everyone who donated, provided food, and stood with us on the picket line. We are proud. We are grateful. We are united.”

IATSE and Ensemble Arts Reach Tentative Agreement for Philadelphia Ushers: Ushers at popular Philadelphia theaters, represented by Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local B29, reached a tentative agreement (TA) with Ensemble Arts Philly on Tuesday, averting a potential strike. Ushers had been working under an expired contract since the summer of last year. Highlights of the TA include a 23% raise over five years in addition to other benefits and changes to workplace rules that reflect the important role these front-of-house workers play. In a joint statement, the union and Ensemble Arts said: “This agreement is the result of professional and productive dialogue and a spirit of collaboration between the two parties. Ensemble Arts Philly and IATSE Local B29 look forward to continuing their 24-year partnership working together to continue to provide exceptional service to the more than one million visitors to the Kimmel Center, Academy of Music, and Miller Theater each year.”

UAW Members at EV Maker Win Back Pay Settlement: In a win for the UAW, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) approved a settlement last week of nearly $258,000 in back pay and for the right of the illegally fired workers at electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, Lucid, to return to work. This ruling stems from unfair labor practice charges filed by the UAW after the company dismissed three workers for organizing in 2023. The Formal Board Settlement also includes a cease and desist order compelling the EV maker to stop illegal tactics like surveilling workers, confiscating union literature and threatening workers for union efforts. “This is a significant victory for worker and climate justice,” said UAW Region 6 Director Mike Miller.  “We’re building the green economy to create a more sustainable future. But we will only have a truly sustainable future if we build our economy around protecting both the planet and workers’ right to organize for justice on the job without employer interference.”  UAW President Shawn Fain added: “Every autoworker in America can take heart from this settlement. Lucid is backed by the Saudi sovereign wealth fund, the deepest pockets in the world. But Lucid workers stood up and won justice. They showed that no matter how big the challenge, workers can win when they stand together and fight for a better life.”

President Biden Signs Social Security Fairness Act into Law: President Biden signed the bipartisan Social Security Fairness Act on Sunday, making more than 2.5 million public sector workers who receive pension income also eligible for Social Security benefits. The new law repeals two provisions—the Windfall Elimination Provision and the Government Pension Offset. This expands Social Security payments to dedicated public servants and their surviving spouses who have been unfairly excluded for over four decades. The legislation was strongly backed by various unions and labor groups, marking a critical victory for ensuring more workers have the dignified retirement they deserve. “For years the government has taken away Social Security benefits from millions of retired federal, state and local government employees who worked as teachers, police, firefighters, postal workers and general employees,” said Alliance for Retired Americans Executive Director Richard Fiesta in a press release. “We thank all the activists and elected officials who helped pass this law. As a result of their efforts more Americans will be able to enjoy the more secure retirement they earned.”

Philadelphia Museum Workers Vote to Ratify First Contract: Workers represented by AFSCME at the Please Touch Museum (PTM) in Philadelphia have voted to approve their first-ever collective bargaining agreement at the institution. Staff voted to form Please Touch Museum United in April 2023, becoming the city’s first children’s museum to form a union and yet another organizing victory forged through the AFSCME Cultural Workers United campaign. Wins in the agreement include a 13.3% immediate increase in minimum pay—with guaranteed raises up to 24% over the lifetime of the contract—the ability to rollover sick time and vacation, reductions in health insurance cost-shares and more. “Museum and cultural workers have traditionally accepted low pay and precarious conditions as a trade-off for doing mission-driven work,” said AFSCME District Council 47 President April Gigetts. “But those conditions aren’t sustainable for people who need a paycheck to live. As museums become more racially and economically diverse workplaces, workers are increasingly demanding the same rights and protections as those in other industries.”

The Animation Guild Ratifies Contract with Streamers and Studios: Last week, members of The Animation Guild (TAG), Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 839, voted to ratify a new three-year agreement with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP). After months of negotiations with studio representatives, TAG announced that, in a historic Guild turnout, 76.1% of members voted in favor of the new deal. The 2024–2027 Animation Guild Master Agreement improves health and pension funds, increases worker wages, codifies important artificial intelligence protections, and establishes other new benefits. Studios covered in the agreement include industry giants such as DreamWorks Animation, Marvel, Netflix, Nickelodeon, Sony Pictures Animation, Walt Disney Animation Studios, Warner Bros. Animation and more. “I want to recognize the incredible work that the Negotiations Committee put into seeing this agreement reached and ratified,” said TAG Business Representative Steve Kaplan in a press statement. “This agreement is the next step forward in our goal to create the strongest contract for our members.…The membership made clear to us that there is a need for more focus on generative artificial intelligence, and we will attack the issue through a multifaceted approach, including lobbying for effective legislation, advocating for tax incentives for humanmade work and grieving against potential abuses.”

Fontainebleau Las Vegas Workers Vote to Ratify Contract: Hospitality workers represented by the Culinary Workers Union, the Nevada affiliate of UNITE HERE, voted overwhelmingly this week to ratify the first union contract at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas. With a stunning 99.6% of members voting in favor of the deal, workers celebrated the new protections and benefits that they won over the course of 18 hours at the negotiating table. The tentative agreement was reached in mid-December after the Culinary Workers Union forged a card-check neutrality deal with the casino resort in 2023.

Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 01/13/2025 - 15:00

Tags: Organizing

A New Era of Worker Power: 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.

SEIU Joins AFL-CIO to 'Unleash a New Era of Worker Power' as Trump 2.0 Looms: “The 2-million-member-strong Service Employees International Union announced Wednesday that it is joining the AFL-CIO, bolstering the ranks of the largest labor federation in the United States as unions prepare to fight the incoming Trump administration. ‘CEOs and billionaires want nothing more than to see workers divided, but we're standing here today with greater solidarity than ever to reach the 60 million Americans who say they'd join a union tomorrow if the laws allowed and to unrig our labor laws to guarantee every worker in America the basic right to organize on the job,’ AFL-CIO president Liz Shuler said in a statement. With SEIU included, the unions that make up the AFL-CIO represent roughly 15 million workers across the nation. April Verrett, SEIU's international president, said union members ‘are ready to unleash a new era of worker power, as millions of service and care workers unite with workers at the AFL-CIO to build our unions in every industry and every ZIP code.’”

UAW Seeks Union Election at Ford Battery Plant in Kentucky: “The United Automobile Workers union is seeking approval from federal labor regulators for a union election among workers at a Ford Motor battery plant in Kentucky, providing an important test of organized labor’s strength after the election of Donald J. Trump. The union petitioned the National Labor Relations Board on Tuesday to let workers at the new factory in Glendale, about 55 miles south of Louisville, vote on whether they want to join the UAW. The plant, which is expected to begin production this year, is a joint venture between Ford and SK On, a South Korean battery company.” 

Park City Ski Patrollers, Resort Reach Tentative Settlement: “Park City Mountain Resort and its ski patrol have reached a tentative agreement. Late Tuesday night, the resort and the Park City Professional Ski Association released a joint statement announcing that a tentative agreement had been reached through April of 2027. ‘The union's bargaining committee is unanimously endorsing ratification by its unit with a vote scheduled to take place (Wednesday),’ the two sides said. ‘The tentative agreement addresses both parties' interests and will end the current strike.’”

Biden Signs Bill to Boost Social Security Payments for Some Public Sector Workers: “President Joe Biden signed a bill Sunday that boosts Social Security benefits for millions of public sector workers in what the White House described as the first expansion of such benefits in 20 years. The Social Security Fairness Act eliminates two decades-old provisions—the Windfall Elimination Provision and the Government Pension Offset—that reduced Social Security benefits for some retirees who also received pension income. Police officers, firefighters, postal workers, and public school teachers are among the nearly 3 million affected by the provisions. ‘The bill I'm signing today is about a simple proposition: Americans who have worked hard all their lives to earn an honest living should be able to retire with economic security and dignity,’ Biden said.”

Nurses at Three Legacy Hospitals Announce Intent to Unionize: “More than 2,200 nurses at three of Legacy Health’s six hospitals announced their intent to join the Oregon Nurses Association today in what would be the largest organizing effort in the union’s history. Nurses from Legacy Good Samaritan Medical Center, Legacy Emanuel Medical Center, and Randall Children’s Hospital delivered a letter to management petitioning for voluntary recognition of the union so they could start collective bargaining on issues that include patient care and staffing, ONA said. The union plans to file for an election with the National Labor Relations Board and set a date for it soon.”

Journalists for the Athletic Push to Join the New York Times Union: “The editorial staff of the Athletic, the sports-media outlet owned by the New York Times, has signed cards signaling its intention to unionize. Staffers sent a letter to Times management Monday asking them to recognize them as part of the Times Guild, the same union that represents the Times newsroom. The Athletic’s bargaining unit is around 200 people and would grow the Times Guild to around 1,700 members. Times reporters are represented by the NewsGuild of New York, which was part of the Athletic’s organizing effort.”

In Rare Move, Some Providence Physicians Prepare to Strike Alongside Nurses: “Thousands of Providence healthcare professionals around the state are preparing to strike, and for the first time in recent history, physicians are among their ranks. In late December, nearly 5,000 Providence healthcare professionals represented by the Oregon Nurses Association voted to approve a strike at all eight Providence hospitals to begin Jan. 10. The called strike came after several weeks of unsuccessful contract negotiations. The union claims the health care system fails to follow state staffing guidelines and doesn’t offer competitive wages and benefits. On Dec. 30, ONA gave the required 10-day notice to strike.”

How Labor Law Changed Under Biden—and What Comes Next: “Core to the Biden administration’s economic policy was an attempt to rebalance the power between workers and employers through labor and employment regulations, from the Federal Trade Commission’s ban on non-compete clauses to the Department of Labor’s expanded overtime protections. At the center of this effort was the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), the federal agency charged with protecting workers’ rights to organize and combating unfair labor practices. Led by general counsel Jennifer Abruzzo, the board took an active stance in interpreting and enforcing labor law, generating new precedents that reduced barriers to worker voice and unionization.”

Midland PetSmart Employees Vote to Unionize with UFCW Local 540: “Employees at the PetSmart store in Midland have voted to unionize. On Friday, Jan. 3, employees have joined the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 540, which represents workers in retail, grocery, food processing and other industries in Texas, according to a press release. ‘I, along with my co-workers, am so proud of coming together to form a union that will finally allow us to advocate for improved hours, pay and worker safety on the job,’ Stephanie Lawrence, a PetSmart customer engagement lead and member of the organizing committee, was quoted as saying. ‘We went into this election united, and the results confirmed what we have known for months: PetSmart workers deserve a union.’”

Starbucks Union Files 34 Federal Complaints, Signaling Renewed Hostilities: “Starbucks Corp.’s union filed 34 U.S. labor board complaints against the company this week, signaling rising tension between the coffee chain and the labor group that had agreed last winter to try to end their hostilities. The complaints were filed with the National Labor Relations Board by Starbucks Workers United, which has organized around 500 of the company’s roughly 10,000 corporate-run U.S. cafes over the past three years. The filings accuse Starbucks of violating federal labor law at stores in 16 states, including by singling out and firing employees over the last several months because of their union activism.”

Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 01/13/2025 - 09:39

A Good, Viable Option: 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:

Each month, Equity shares the names of recently deceased members in order to honor their passing and pay our respects. You may read about the losses in our community reported to Equity for December 2024 on the member portal. https://t.co/Thk13wPbgB pic.twitter.com/oUsOdXSCu9

— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) January 3, 2025

AFGE:

The AFGE Council of Prison Locals has filed an unfair labor practice against the Bureau of Prisons for violating the labor-management agreement by closing 7 prisons without warning or consultation with our union.

Here's what you need to know ⬇https://t.co/xLNUIh8cXL

— AFGE (@AFGENational) January 6, 2025

AFSCME:

Congratulations to the staff at University of Pennsylvania Libraries, who this fall voted to join Local 590, Penn Libraries United. https://t.co/wAXjxWTjRB

— AFSCME (@AFSCME) January 7, 2025

Alliance for Retired Americans:

ICYMI: The Social Security Fairness Act is now law and WEP/GPO is finally repealed! https://t.co/E4qqH6hoDB https://t.co/xX713mrYFR

— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) January 6, 2025

Amalgamated Transit Union:

We welcome our newest members at Local 741-London, ON, to our ATU family. #ATUStrongerTogether https://t.co/Pq4w7QKNg8

— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) January 7, 2025

American Federation of Teachers:

#Jan6 pic.twitter.com/RLPHKkPdpr

— AFT (@AFTunion) January 7, 2025

American Postal Workers Union:

APWU members: USPS will observe the National Day of Remembrance for President Jimmy Carter. Many employees will receive administrative leave in addition to the normal pay provisions. Details: https://t.co/D90mhDYBXy

— The American Postal Workers Union - APWU (@APWUnational) January 6, 2025

Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:

January is National Slavery & Human Trafficking Prevention Month. We can take a stand against human trafficking by recommitting ourselves to end it on our planes. As Flight Attendants, we are uniquely positioned to identify human traffickers and assist their victims. pic.twitter.com/ETfgLRc4Xl

— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) January 6, 2025

Boilermakers:

Scholarship Season is here #Boilermakers 🎓 The 2025 Boilermaker International Scholarship application is now open! IBB awards up to $100,000 worth of scholarships to dependents of members in Canada and the U.S. Apply now! https://t.co/kNxYX1Qhou pic.twitter.com/JU2MmgY7x3

— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) January 1, 2025

Bricklayers:

You get out what you put in! Make sure you are regularly attending union hall meetings or you could miss out on important information!

Photo Creds: @BacLocal1Sk #ItsBetterInAUnion #UnionStrong #BestHandsInTheBusiness pic.twitter.com/eSeT4PfIl7

— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) January 7, 2025

Communications Workers of America:

Great news! https://t.co/sn9OvelUCR

— CWA (@CWAUnion) January 6, 2025

Department for Professional Employees:

We stand with Temple RAs and urge the administration to recognize their union! https://t.co/uFAANnHtkp

— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) January 3, 2025

Electrical Workers:

“Women are seeing the trades, especially union trades, as a good, viable option. They have the opportunity to get paid the same as their male counterparts when performing the same work.” - Josh Sajtar, #IBEW https://t.co/5Capd42gdx

— IBEW (@IBEW) January 3, 2025

Heat and Frost Insulators:

Senior Signing Day! ⭐️
Local 19 celebrated two high school seniors who chose to pursue careers in the trades over college.

🦎 Jase Whitford, Express Insulation Inc.
🦎 Tyler Rogers, McDermaid Roofing and Insulating Co.

Congratulations to Jase & Tyler, we look forward to your… pic.twitter.com/bwWRiX1tW3

— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) January 6, 2025

Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:

💼 Become a LCLAA Member in 2025! 💼
Now’s the time to join the nation’s leading voice for Latino workers and their families. Memberships are open from January 1st to March 31st 2025—take action! 🔊🔥 #LCLAA #lclaamember #lclaafamily pic.twitter.com/P7t45iZ028

— LCLAA (@LCLAA) January 3, 2025

Labor Heritage Foundation:

LHT Podcast (include Apple podcast link)
Christmas in Mansfield: Joe Jencks tells us the story behind his song “Christmas in Mansfield,” where Armco locked out 620 steel workers on September 1, 1999.https://t.co/pYz6aIxP8m pic.twitter.com/6U0EgbYI8o

— Labor Heritage (@LaborHeritage1) January 6, 2025

Laborers:

In communities across North America, Laborers are standing up to help their neighbors in need. #LaborersRising #LIUNACares 
#ICYM, watch our latest #ITK video on “Laborers Rising: Laborers Give Back” here: https://t.co/hCPc5OSdmU pic.twitter.com/fCXAW8P0dx

— LIUNA (@LIUNA) January 7, 2025

Machinists:

Sending solidarity to @Culinary226 members staging strong against @VirginHotelsLV! ✊🏼✊🏽✊🏾 https://t.co/yMORCMjEzy

— Machinists Union (@MachinistsUnion) January 6, 2025

Mine Workers:

Today we remember the Sago Mine Disaster of January 2, 2006, which killed 12 miners. This tragedy led to the passage of vital safety reforms, including the MINER Act. pic.twitter.com/pQqJ7QiPJD

— United Mine Workers (@MineWorkers) January 2, 2025

Musical Artists:

AGMA staging staff members are invited to connect directly w/ Jeffrey Boyd, AGMA's new national executive director, on Jan 13, at 9PM ETover Zoom: https://t.co/XMfFhjnDHA pic.twitter.com/1vVAhtwWWD

— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) January 6, 2025

National Air Traffic Controllers Association:

The NATCA Reloaded Committee is excited to announce its first NATCA 101 class of 2025, which will take place on Jan. 15 at 1 p.m. EST. If you can’t make this class, there are more dates coming up in the following months. Visit https://t.co/3QJfz1orWG to sign up! pic.twitter.com/gdQkvtdfh6

— NATCA (@NATCA) January 7, 2025

National Association of Letter Carriers:

Snow, ice, and frigid temps won't stop letter carriers from providing exceptional service. To all postal employees, first responders, utility workers, snowplow teams, transit workers, and others keeping our communities safe and running this week, thank you for your dedication! pic.twitter.com/T0FbKHEGUN

— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) January 6, 2025

National Domestic Workers Alliance:

Feel good about the new year by taking care of those who care for you and your loved ones.
Use @HiHemployers' Bonus Guide to ensure you are fairly compensating domestic workers you employ, who are often excluded from yearly raises.https://t.co/fKSn0IYulK

— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) January 6, 2025

National Nurses United:

Welcome news to start the year: @POTUS signed a bill to increase social security benefits for millions of workers, like nurses, teachers, and other public employees. https://t.co/NAzJPDgv7w

— NationalNursesUnited (@NationalNurses) January 7, 2025

NWSL Players Association:

Sports jobs are Union jobs. https://t.co/QrDmMArjE5

— NWSLPA (@nwsl_players) January 6, 2025

NFL Players Association:

Derek Carr passes the #CommunityMVP baton one final time this season to Raekwon Davis 🤝 pic.twitter.com/kZYULFU4kY

— NFLPA (@NFLPA) January 7, 2025

North America's Building Trades Unions:

North America’s Building Trades Unions call for federal action to stop the misuse of visas for the construction of TSMC’s federally funded projects.

Full statement: https://t.co/PHmYCQfbG6 pic.twitter.com/r1tRMYHPq7

— The Building Trades (@NABTU) January 7, 2025

Office and Professional Employees:

“Where Texas workers are being given dedicated organizing resources, they are winning. Meeting this moment demands a movement-wide commitment to organize in Texas, and all Southern states, that matches the will of the workers here.” https://t.co/obNsLovc3z

— OPEIU | #UnionStrong (@OPEIU) January 1, 2025

Plasterers and Cement Masons:

Check out this video from Building Wisconsin TV, where we meet the cement masons from OPCMIA Local 599, including Business Manager Kilah Engelke and foreman Josh Tyrrell. https://t.co/Nn4EPv4H2F

— OPCMIA International (@opcmiaintl) January 7, 2025

Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:

The ski shop techs of @reiunionsoho have been on ULP strike since Dec 4, fighting for health and safety. Support the workers by sending an email to management uplifting their demands at https://t.co/ETl51PtTqY! pic.twitter.com/UAkuGzB7lO

— RWDSU (@RWDSU) January 7, 2025

Roofers and Waterproofers:

Success is no accident. 
It’s the result of hard work, perseverance, sacrifice, and passion for what you do. Keep pushing forward!#HardWorkPaysOff #RoofersUnion #Dedication #SuccessMindset #UnionPride #Success pic.twitter.com/O4bBYQ1I5I

— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) January 7, 2025

SAG-AFTRA:

Auntie Mame! Mama Rose! Our 13th SAG Life Achievement Award recipient, Rosalind Russell, had an illustrious career as an actor, comedian, screenwriter and singer. What is your favorite project of Rosalind's? Let us know below! #SAGLifeAchievement60 pic.twitter.com/ZFMJoRgNcI

— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) January 7, 2025

Solidarity Center:

Every worker should be able to form or join a union & come together with their coworkers to bargain for better without fear of violence & harassment. We continue to stand in #solidarity with our partners @STAWU_ & their General Secretary Sticks Nkambule.#WorkerRights

— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) January 6, 2025

Theatrical Stage Employees:

Thanks to all of our members who participated in our Fifth Annual IATSE Holiday Photo Contest.

To check out our contest winners, crew shots and honorable mentions click here: https://t.co/KCYPBi7zub

— IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) January 6, 2025

Transport Workers Union:

Total BS. This @MTA fraudster ignores the fact that violent crime is soaring. Felony assaults were up 51.6% and murders were up
233% last year compared to 2019 (January through 12/29). Such # are published in the MTA’s own committee books. Fire this GOBSHITE! @TWULocal100 https://t.co/2W2GKvIofz pic.twitter.com/d4p9LqSZu4

— TWU (@transportworker) January 6, 2025

Transportation Trades Department:

Snow day in DC! ❄️ We’re grateful to the transportation workers and first responders who keep our cities moving in the winter weather. 🫶 pic.twitter.com/XbjuySl5yU

— TTD | America's Transportation Unions (@TTDAFLCIO) January 7, 2025

UAW:

"The failure of hard work to pay off in America makes our communities wobbly, our faith weak, our lives lonely, our politics toxic and our relationship with work masochistic and unsustainable."https://t.co/YZx17kbaSv

— UAW (@UAW) January 6, 2025

UNITE HERE:

In 2024, UNITE HERE organized more than 7,200 workers across 117 workplaces, the largest number of individual workplaces our union has ever organized in an election year. pic.twitter.com/2WwA1iZP2d

— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) January 1, 2025

United Food and Commercial Workers:

About 1,200 members of @UFCW8 who work at 96 Rite Aid stores in Northern CA have ratified a STRONG new contract!

The contract includes significant wage increases, reinstates a union-managed health care plan, & provides job protections. 

➡️ https://t.co/Xm1MA2B2FD pic.twitter.com/GZZDgIX1b2

— UFCW (@UFCW) January 6, 2025

United Steelworkers:

This year, the Solidarity Works podcast turns 5️⃣! Thank you for listening as we explore the history, challenges, and victories shaping our union. To celebrate, we’re spotlighting 5 top episodes. First up: Punching Above Our Weight.

🎧Listen here: https://t.co/vpow8quTLT pic.twitter.com/gaYlQCKFzh

— United Steelworkers #EverybodysUnion (@steelworkers) January 7, 2025

Utility Workers:

High school seniors who are the child of an active UWUA member are eligible to apply to our scholarship program. Don’t wait until the last minute! pic.twitter.com/NoOJaeQubR

— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) January 7, 2025

Writers Guild of America East:

TODAY: Bundle up and join our @IATSE kin in solidarity as they fight for a fair contract at Atlantic Theater. #1u 

⏰January 7th at 12:30pm
📍NYC, 9th Ave between 19th and 20th Streets. Enter on the corner of 19th and 9th.

More details and RSVP: https://t.co/yFcUfb7LXC

— Writers Guild of America East (@WGAEast) January 7, 2025

Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 01/10/2025 - 10:57

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: 500 Duluth City Workers Reach Union Contract, Avert Strike

Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

Duluth city workers reached a tentative agreement late Monday night, averting a potential strike after months of negotiations. The workers, members of AFSCME Local 66, and include snowplow drivers, inspectors and workers for utilities, libraries, parks, and gas and waterline maintenance. They voted to authorize a strike in December.

“This tentative agreement is a step in the right direction for the workers who keep Duluth running,” said AFSCME Local 66 President Wendy Wohlwend. “It should not have taken months of incredibly difficult negotiations and mediation with the city — or the need for our union members to overwhelmingly reject the city’s last offer and authorize a strike — to secure a fair contract from city leadership that has proclaimed itself to be pro-union.”

Terms of the agreement weren’t yet available, and will be released after the union votes whether or not to approve the contract on January 14. Union officials said the contract includes meaningful market adjustments, improvements to scheduling and workload expectations and commitments to address staffing shortages. Workers described crushing workloads with unfilled positions and mandatory overtime, including 12-hour, six-days-a-week shifts at the city’s water plant, which is undergoing repairs.

Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 01/10/2025 - 09:15

Power in Unity

Union members know better than anyone that there is power in unity. 

So we are thrilled to share breaking news: The Service Employees International Union (SEIU), a powerful union of 2 million members, has joined our AFL-CIO union family.

At a critical moment when everything is on the line for the nation’s working people, the labor movement is uniting to challenge the status quo and build a movement of workers who will fight—on the job, in the streets, at the ballot box, in our communities—for higher pay, expanded benefits and new rules that empower us to join together in unions and organize across industries.

United, we’ll take on corporate greed and union-busting millionaires and billionaires.

United, we’ll build on our wins and on our record of support and keep up the momentum in this critical moment for the labor movement. 

And united, we’ll have the power to make change, to hold elected leaders accountable and to demand stronger, more inclusive labor laws that guarantee every worker in America has the basic right to organize on the job. 

We know what it looks like when we organize together, when we rally together, when we mobilize together. And together with SEIU service and care workers, we will take our fight for good jobs to the next level. There’s no stopping us. 

P.S. Tune in at 2:30 p.m. ET to, Thursday, Jan. 9, at AFLCIO.tv as the AFL-CIO and SEIU come together for this historic announcement with workers from various unions—including our SEIU members—to talk about why we’re powerful together. 

Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 01/09/2025 - 09:51

Tags: Organizing