Labor-Radio Podcast Weekly: Danny Glover, Jamie Partridge and More
This week, actor and activist Danny Glover says, “We need to fight a fight for the new future” on Work Week Radio (KPOO), and Jamie Partridge of Communities and Postal Workers United says, “This pandemic is life and death, if not for you, for your coworker, for your family, for their family, for our customers” on Labor Radio (KBOO), which included an excerpt from this year’s online Labor Notes conference. Plus, “The Fight for Equality” from Labor History in 2:00.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 04/29/2020 - 13:14Tags: Podcast
Union Leaders' Message to Workers About COVID-19
Leaders of America's unions send a message of support and thanks to the union members and workers who are keeping our economy going and providing all of us with basic needs and essential services.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 04/29/2020 - 10:20Tags: COVID-19
Plant Workers in Kentucky Fight for Safer Workplaces
In late March, when workers at GE Appliances, a Haier company in Louisville, Kentucky, were mandated to work during the COVID-19 crisis, members of IUE-CWA Local 83761 sprung into action to make sure they were protected on the job. While the plant was shut down for one week, Local 83761 President Dino Driskell reached out to Gov. Andy Beshear and other elected officials who agreed to send letters to Haier calling for stronger workplace safety measures. The local’s internal organizing team, led by Kindre Batliner, organized some 1,000 members for a “drive-by” rally on March 28, calling on Haier to keep the plant closed until stronger safety and health protocols were in place.
“That rally was tremendous, the morale really lifted after that. The company wasn’t even willing to talk to us before,” said Ashley Snider, vice president of the Kentucky State AFL-CIO and IUE-CWA staff. “Thanks to the members' political action and the rally, Haier really started to listen to our concerns.”
Since the rally, workers at GE Appliance Park secured new safety protections, such as plastic barriers around workstations and other social distancing measures. Most notably, members of Local 83761 won a $2 an hour hazard pay raise and a flexible leave policy for workers at high risk from the coronavirus and those who have child care needs.
Members of Local 83761 have also donated extra face masks to other essential workers in the Louisville area, including members of Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 1447, UAW Local 822 and Teamsters Local 783. However, the union is still working to get additional protective equipment in Louisville and is supporting similar member mobilization campaigns at shops across the country, including a GE plant in Madisonville, Kentucky, that builds plane engines and has several positive COVID-19 cases.
Snider is leveraging her relationships with political leaders to help those who have been laid off to start receiving unemployment benefits. After spending countless hours on hold trying to get more information on benefit issues members were having, Snider contacted Morgan McGarvey, the Democratic leader in the state Senate, who connected her directly with the manager of the local unemployment office who was able to speed up the benefit approval process for many of the workers the union represents. She explained: “Elections matter, and the people in office can actually affect our lives in a big way.”
As the labor movement looks toward the future, this crisis is demonstrating how every worker needs to be protected on the job. IUE-CWA has been receiving calls from employees in other plants asking how they can join the union. “We’re all in this together. It’s a scary time, but I’m so glad I have my union family and I know I’m supported,” Snider said. "And many workers without a union are starting to understand the value of having support on the job."
In an effort to further protect workers and ensure that our country has the tools and resources we need to fight this pandemic, the IUE-CWA is calling on GE to produce ventilators in its empty shops. To support its effort, you can sign IUE-CWA's petition.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 04/28/2020 - 12:35Tags: COVID-19
We're All in This Together: 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:
For updates on how you can protect yourself from COVID-19, resources and the latest statements made by Actors' Equity Association, be sure to check the Member Portal - https://t.co/H3xFIi87eu pic.twitter.com/ig3Z51TcDH
— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) April 24, 2020AFGE:
If implemented too soon, issuing a new telework policy could worsen the crisis and unnecessarily expose millions of Americans to illness and potentially death. Human life is precious, and we must protect the health and safety of our government workforce.https://t.co/he6NVUi4af https://t.co/ThI7y995AB
— AFGE (@AFGENational) April 23, 2020AFSCME:
We're going to be fighting every single day to protect public services & public service workers during this crisis. Dedicated public service workers are risking their lives to keep our communities safe and running smoothly. They do not deserve pink slips. https://t.co/De2keP8HHr
— AFSCME ✊? (@AFSCME) April 24, 2020Air Line Pilots Association:
Thank YOU @RepPeterDeFazio for continuing to stand up for ALPA #pilots to help us keep our aviation system the safest in the world. #ToThoseWhoKeepUsMoving https://t.co/MfCJ0brwNE
— ALPA (@WeAreALPA) April 21, 2020Alliance for Retired Americans:
Alert: Many seniors infected with coronavirus exhibit unusual symptoms rather than the usual fever, persistent cough, and shortness of breath. https://t.co/gZ3uC0okfZ pic.twitter.com/YCNQsOaDnN
— Alliance Retirees (@ActiveRetirees) April 23, 2020Amalgamated Transit Union:
Get involved now by visiting https://t.co/SwcKJqTZn8 and go to the #SafeServiceNow section. #1u #COVID19 #Transit #TogetherWeFightTogetherWeWin pic.twitter.com/RMjBJc2XSO
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) April 21, 2020American Federation of Musicians:
The coronavirus pandemic has brought an unprecedented challenge to the entertainment industry & it's more important than ever that #UnionMusicians stand w/ @IATSE, @directorsguild, @Teamsters, @sagaftra, & @WGAEast
during this crisis. #1u https://t.co/X6IyDsxJTb pic.twitter.com/2wwRP0wXBI
American Federation of Teachers:
During a global pandemic, it is shameful that the Senate GOP slipped huge tax breaks for owners of real estate firms, hedge funds & private equity into the CARES Act. Aid should go to those who need it most, NOT millionaires & heavy hitters. Repeal the #MillionairesGiveaway NOW. pic.twitter.com/mhySh17sJ0
— AFT (@AFTunion) April 24, 2020American Postal Workers Union:
Pres. Dimondstein's statement:
At a time when the country needs us now more than ever, Mnuchin & his Wall Street cronies are attempting to exploit the crisis to raise prices, demonize heroic postal workers and cut servicehttps://t.co/68xgHuAHsL
Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance:
Shout out to local leaders who are taking action against the growing discrimination against Asian Americans!
????????
Shout out to our APALA Massachusetts Chapter for their day in and day out work to advocate for AAPIs and ensure our voices are heard! https://t.co/TLz2rtHWkc
Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:
AFA to DOT and HHS: Require Masks, PPE, and Suspend Leisure Travel https://t.co/eLrNi7cOLG
— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) April 24, 2020Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers:
Local 10G member Hazel Graesser is a machine operator at Treehouse Private Brands in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. She and co-workers are packing store brand oatmeal seven days a week during the COVID-19 outbreak.
THANK YOU, Sister. ??#bctgmstrong #covid_19 #1u #coronavirususa #unionyes pic.twitter.com/TrpkDpvjTW
Boilermakers:
Thank you ❤️ to the essential crews maintaining our roads, buildings & other infrastructures. ? And thank you to the unions fighting to keep these workers safe! @NABTU @TheIronworkers @IBEW @roofersunion @GoIUPAT @IUBAC @LIUNA @steelworkers pic.twitter.com/mWTcJ5QHh2
— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) April 23, 2020Bricklayers:
This is one of many ways to show our appreciation and respect to our hardworking frontline workers amid #COVIDー19. Thank you, BAC Local 1 #NewYork & @islandempanada for stepping up and showing your support!#solidarity #1u #BuildingTradesWhateverItTakes pic.twitter.com/OZecuhI28h
— Bricklayers Union (@IUBAC) April 20, 2020California School Employees Association:
Gov. @GavinNewsom joined our board meeting today to show appreciation for the important work our members are doing to serve their communities. We thank him for taking his valuable time to visit & we'll continue working to get #CA through this. #UnionStrong https://t.co/w62sZyLyfL pic.twitter.com/Vug07zkq1e
— CSEA (@CSEA_Now) April 18, 2020Coalition of Labor Union Women:
The death toll is increasing each day and without protective equipment, more and more public service workers on the #COVIDfrontlines are coming down with COVID-19 themselves. To the White House: Expand the DPA. We cannot win without these front-line workers. pic.twitter.com/VUO9YrhPVJ
— CLUW National (@CLUWNational) April 23, 2020Communications Workers of America:
We wish you and your loved ones a safe and happy Ramadan! pic.twitter.com/VqICYG2HMa
— CWA (@CWAUnion) April 23, 2020Department for Professional Employees:
Unlike other networks, @WeAreSinclair has abandoned its broadcast technicians by refusing to pay them during this global health crisis. We stand with Sinclair broadcast technicians and their union @IATSE in demanding compensation for expected work. #1u https://t.co/xcHNo7BlAi
— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) April 23, 2020Electrical Workers:
Ontario #IBEW members give new meaning to serving on the front line . https://t.co/sFAFVESa0m
— IBEW (@IBEW) April 23, 2020Fire Fighters:
IAFF General President appears on MSNBC today. #Firefighters and paramedics are frustrated that they have not received the PPE they need to do the job the community expects them to do.” #coronavirus pic.twitter.com/RQwx1LOkz3
— IAFF (@IAFFNewsDesk) April 23, 2020Heat and Frost Insulators:
Thank you for being a part of the Insulators Union.https://t.co/JxFly8OVYz
— Insulators Union (@InsulatorsUnion) April 24, 2020International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers:
Welcome to your union, everyone at @IFTPE is standing with you!! We will be eagerly awaiting @NILC management, swift recognition of their employees #union! https://t.co/kMDgB52NY1
— IFPTE (@IFPTE) April 23, 2020International Labor Communications Association:
Ready for your entries into the 2020 Labor Media Awards Contest https://t.co/Z5ZipUIwY2 pic.twitter.com/lrZW7CaLwD
— Labor Communications (@ILCAonline) April 22, 2020Jobs With Justice:
THREAD: Today, JWJ sent letters to the five largest corporate landlords DEMANDING they:
? Forgive unpaid rents during the COVID crisis
? Cease evictions and foreclosures
? Support housing relief
If no response — we strike #OurHouseOurRules
Join us: https://t.co/tUBIkblXUw pic.twitter.com/4ho7ipGm8V
Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:
With school buildings closed around the country because of the coronavirus pandemic, educators say they are concerned about how these students and families are faring. @AFTunion https://t.co/neJZmnDwLO
— LCLAA (@LCLAA) April 21, 2020Laborers:
?WATCH NOW: A #THANKYOU video message to those of you still working, your sacrifice & courage has not gone unnoticed! #COVID19 #Coronavirus #1U
Click here: https://t.co/v95aWjmicb pic.twitter.com/SLM9ioZZ7d
Longshoremen:
https://t.co/YCMTsEuBRo In this time of crisis, the @ILAUnion @TheILAmobileApp ILA salutes its members and partners in this video for helping to keep American commerce moving – and doing it under safe working conditions with proper PPE.@NYSANEWS @PeterTirschwell @Nardijo @AFLCIO
— Int'l LongshoreAssoc (@ILAUnion) April 24, 2020Machinists:
Activate L!VE: Safety & Health amid #COVID19. #WorkplaceSafety https://t.co/Ut59VbaLqH
— Machinists Union ✈️?? (@MachinistsUnion) April 22, 2020Maritime Trades Department:
How can we expect to beat this pandemic if we cut our public services and give a pink slip to sanitation workers, health care workers and other public service workers? This is not a winning strategy. Congress: invest in state and local govts NOW. #FundtheFrontLines
— MaritimeTrades (@Maritime_Trades) April 23, 2020Metal Trades Department:
MTD President James Hart penned a letter to Congress yesterday thanking them for their bipartisan efforts to help American workers and businesses during this unprecedented time. See the text of the letter below. Or download the full letter here. https://t.co/jNNyMLbLiY pic.twitter.com/2HuwEvK1KY
— Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) April 24, 2020National Air Traffic Controllers Association:
NATCA Pres @PaulRinaldi: Decreases in traffic across the NAS could provide an opportunity to modernize the system while it’s not running at top speed. It might help tremendously. @ATCA_now CEO Peter Dumont: I saw a meme about that. #ATCAchat #ATCAonline https://t.co/93hpgijHL1 pic.twitter.com/KLNiqhUtyW
— NATCA (@NATCA) April 24, 2020National Association of Letter Carriers:
Action needed: Congress must protect & strengthen the Postal Service during the COVID-19 crisis. Watch the video below to learn how to use NALC's website to contact your member of Congress & advocate for our brothers and sisters!#SaveThePostOffice #USPS_is_essential pic.twitter.com/nIvLDk4kfX
— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) April 19, 2020National Day Laborer Organizing Network:
Grateful for chance to partner w/ @mrjoshhealey @rosariodawson @wkamaubell @lascafeteras @yosoyyosi @alphabetrockers and others to raise $ for the Immigrant Worker Safety Net Fund and the Black Housing Union. Details https://t.co/9fdBLLGeOc #yNosotrosQue?
— NDLON (@NDLON) April 23, 2020National Domestic Workers Alliance:
Important data from @maketheroadnj — The next federal relief bill needs to include undocumented workers who are essential to the coronavirus response. But states can follow California's lead and create state relief funds that include EVERYONE right now. https://t.co/QDD5kIEAVm
— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) April 24, 2020National Federation of Federal Employees-IAM:
Until our nation's leaders figure it out, I guess we'll have to take care of one another. We salute you NFFE Local 2189. #InThisTogether #solidarityhttps://t.co/aXBoNj6BYm
— NFFE (@NFFE_Union) April 22, 2020National Nurses United:
Fully staff the VA NOW! Veterans' lives are on the line.
“Usually the ratio is one nurse to two critical patients. I’m having five critical ICU patients on ventilators. I’ve never seen anything like this," said Lobifaro, NNU RN.#COVID19 #SafeStaffinghttps://t.co/YDyBepdQjc
National Taxi Workers Alliance:
Already Struggling Taxi Drivers Face Added Challenge During Pandemic https://t.co/r1QINav3GL
— NY Taxi Workers (@NYTWA) April 17, 2020NFL Players Association:
It's Draft Day and we're excited to welcome our newest player members. ? Here's a message from Executive Director @DeSmithNFLPA to the incoming rookie class:#NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/wegdLscpeL
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) April 23, 2020North America's Building Trades Unions:
Our #BuildingTrades family up in New England showed their support for health care workers by driving by a local hospital in a truck with large digital messages on the side.
Take a look!https://t.co/NXVkwhhdQj pic.twitter.com/Kc3LdDhCqF
Office and Professional Employees:
“We’re all in this together” means we’re all in this together. @OPEIU459nurses, @Local40OPEIU, and a coalition of union allies (@Teamsters, @UNITEHERE, @MINurses, @SEIU) are demanding to be treated like the #EssentialWorkers they are. #1u https://t.co/nzInR7D7V6
— OPEIU (@OPEIU) April 22, 2020Painters and Allied Trades:
Matt has survived COVID–19. Listen to his solidarity message for fellow construction workers & working people everywhere.
“My time in there was the scariest in my life."
Congress, the labor movement has a question: Which side are you on?
⏯️Full Video: https://t.co/w5k0e1Mua6 pic.twitter.com/Y2s8lDqaFs
Plasterers and Cement Masons:
“While the country was riveted on the skyrocketing number of Covid-19 cases and trying to make sense of the incoherent response by the Trump administration, [the NLRB] continued its steady dismantling of workers’ rights.” What a disgrace! #1u https://t.co/xutb9c0v9e pic.twitter.com/A8mzKLhX9p
— OPCMIA International (@opcmiaintl) April 22, 2020Pride At Work:
LGBTQ folk are more likely to have been impacted economically by #COVID19. Unions can help mitigate some of the damage economically to working people. Organize!https://t.co/73e7W773rD
— Pride at Work (@PrideatWork) April 23, 2020Professional Aviation Safety Specialists:
Privatizing inherently government functions, such as air traffic control & USPS, are misguided schemes to give $$$ to corporations. PASS beat back calls to privatize ATC & supports our fellow unions trying to #SaveThePostOffice @NALC_National @APWUnational @NRLCA #MailHandlers
— PASS (@PASSNational) April 21, 2020Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:
RWDSU Demands That @Macys Extend Contracts Through COVID-19 Pandemic.
Read the full release on our website: https://t.co/WUXV5RjVnT pic.twitter.com/1MChFgMtDB
SAG-AFTRA:
S/O to SAG-AFTRA recording artist members @llcoolj & @Nas on tonight's fundraiser in support of Healthcare Professionals on the frontline. #sagaftramembers https://t.co/KO7cDytao2
— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) April 23, 2020Seafarers:
Recertified Bosun Ritche Acuman (right) reports that everyone arriving at the USNS Algol (pictured in San Francisco) gets a temperature check. He built a testing station in part to block wind. #1u #maritime pic.twitter.com/Z5HDTH7aJJ
— Seafarers Union (@SeafarersUnion) April 24, 2020Solidarity Center:
7 yrs after #RanaPlaza, when 1100+ garment workers were killed & thousands more injured, it's more clear than ever that worker rights, worker health, worker safety—ALL our health security is connected. No More #RanaPlazas! @cleanclothes @GLJhub @ILRF @GlobalFundWomen @equaltimes pic.twitter.com/VM1sBRAjs7
— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) April 24, 2020The NewsGuild-CWA:
Check out NewsGuild President Jon Schleuss discussing how to help #SaveTheNews @CJR
https://t.co/efuP7KoQQg @gaufre pic.twitter.com/pSN2IzuqYv
Theatrical Stage Employees:
Political Director Tyler McIntosh discusses the ongoing efforts to advocate for IATSE members on Capitol Hill during the COVID-19 crisis. https://t.co/P5u5e3ygCD
— IATSE (@IATSE) April 23, 2020Transport Workers:
We need PPE and safety mandates now!
Recommendations and guidelines are not enough. Profit-driven airline executives and bureaucratic transit agencies have already proven they can’t be trusted to do the right thing on their own.https://t.co/A9NWk6Ys3g
Transportation Trades Department:
Front-line workers in the #COVID19 fight need unions #1uhttps://t.co/EPzzM8JN4d
— Transp. Trades Dept. (@TTDAFLCIO) April 23, 2020UAW:
"Our members need to hear precise information about the threat of the virus, what is the action plan to combat this thing and whether or not they'll be safe. Right now, we don't see that as being solid enough to return to the workplace this early." https://t.co/MyTjxFaphh
— UAW (@UAW) April 23, 2020Union Plus:
Major labor union threatens to cancel convention in New Orleans if Convention Center doesn’t address local workers’ demands for relief | The Lens https://t.co/MU7oh5CzR5
— Union Label Dept. (@ULSTD_AFLCIO) April 21, 2020Union Veterans Council:
Great work @votevets, #USPS impacts our veterans community in a multitude of levels. https://t.co/p3sqwGkoLn
— Union Veterans Council (@unionveterans) April 23, 2020UNITE HERE:
Meet Vikas.
Recently, Vikas & his coworkers organized their hotel in Baltimore. ?
Under COVID-19, Vikas finds himself once again fighting for a fair deal.
But now, it’s on Congress to decide to put #WorkersFirst—or the hotel companies.
?TAKE ACTION: https://t.co/iLtKfaD5d8 pic.twitter.com/ScOt9SR9kg
United Food and Commercial Workers:
Thanks to @Browns QB Baker Mayfield for thanking grocery workers and sharing how customers can #ShopSmart during #COVID19.
Learn more about our #ShopSmart campaign here: https://t.co/nmUiv1GvBO. pic.twitter.com/OlXIK1dXJG
United Steelworkers:
The Fox in the Henhouse https://t.co/fju5QA9cjJ
— United Steelworkers (@steelworkers) April 24, 2020United Students Against Sweatshops:
Be in solidarity with @UnderArmour garment workers (pictured here outside the PT Kaho Indah Citragarment factory in Indonesia) TODAY by creating a sign that says “Under Armour pay your orders! Do right by garment workers! #WorkersOverUnderArmour” and taking a selfie! Tag us @USAS pic.twitter.com/Jl96blOX0P
— USAS (@USAS) April 23, 2020Utility Workers:
Indian Point is scheduled for shut down April 30. We can stop it. Please sign the petition telling Governor @NYGovCuomo this is not the time to close Indian Point and endanger clean steady power to #NewYork City and #Westchester. These are our jobs! https://t.co/whPITbiEJd
— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) April 23, 2020Working America:
We didn’t just speak with Democrats, even 60% of swing voters saw the need to address climate change. ???
Full report: https://t.co/af7d0oc7MP
Writers Guild of America, East:
Earl Peterson is working remotely to make sure listeners are informed and aware, because he, like his fellow Guild Members, knows that #NewsIsEssential [12/ ] pic.twitter.com/Ba1uVh9XKP
— Writers Guild of America, East (@WGAEast) April 23, 2020 Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 04/27/2020 - 15:58Rhode Island's Working People and the Response to COVID-19
Patrick Crowley, secretary-treasurer of the Rhode Island AFL-CIO, spoke to Erik Loomis of the Lawyers, Guns & Money blog about the response from the state federation and the larger labor movement to COVID-19.
Here in Rhode Island, the state federation has been holding conference calls for local labor leaders every other day so our leaders, many of whom are still rank-and-file workers, can ask questions of the state’s political leaders. We’ve had Governor Raimondo join us twice, the State Treasurer, the Attorney General, the Secretary of State, the Senate President and our entire congressional delegation. Our leaders have been able to ask questions, sometimes pretty tough ones, about what steps the government has taken to address the crisis. It’s also been a chance to triage problems that have come up for our members. For example, in the early days of the crisis, there was a real concern that one of our hospital chains was going to start furloughing front line health care workers because they were hemorrhaging money after elective procedures were cancelled, cutting off a significant revenue stream. As a result of these calls, labor leaders were able to convince political leaders to investigate so folks could keep working.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 04/24/2020 - 13:24Helping Those in Need Is a ‘Labor of Love’ for Union Members in North Georgia
Wearing face masks and gloves and sharing a determination to help their brothers and sisters in need, dozens of members of the Atlanta-North Georgia Labor Council sorted and bagged emergency food to hand out to union families on Saturday, April 18. The “Labor of Love” food drive was a member-to-member relief effort in collaboration with the United Way of Greater Atlanta and the Georgia State AFL-CIO, in partnership with Margie’s House mobile food pantry and the city of Fairburn, Georgia, to help 300 union families who are now struggling to put food on their tables. It was one of a series of volunteer events that the labor council has coordinated to support union members and the wider community during the pandemic.
In March, as classrooms were closing and fear of the coronavirus was increasing, members of the Atlanta-North Georgia Labor Council volunteered their time to help AFSCME school support workers in the Atlanta public schools prepare breakfast and lunch for students forced to learn from home. “Union members have been coming out. We’re trying to not only help our members, but also help the community,” said Sandra Williams (RWDSU), the labor council’s executive director. Union members were also on hand in conjunction with Atlanta Jobs with Justice, to deliver lunch to faculty, residents and students of the Morehouse School of Medicine working at Grady Hospital earlier this month.
In other ways, the labor federation is working to assist those who now find themselves without a job or are experiencing financial hardship because of this crisis. Many members attended a Zoom town hall hosted by state Sen. Zahra Karinshak that included a panel on unemployment insurance with James Williams (IBEW), president of the Atlanta-North Georgia Labor Council, and Denise Beckwith, the unemployment division director of the Georgia State Department of Labor. The council also has worked with Jobs with Justice and many other community partners to provide community support. “We hope that members see our support, look at it with pride and they know they can rely on their union to come through for them,” Sandra Williams said. “People are very thankful, but they’re also fearful for their health.”
With some businesses allowed to reopen in the coming days, James Williams expressed concerns that Gov. Brian Kemp is putting money ahead of people’s safety and health. “Georgia is likely to run out of unemployment funds in the next few months, and this is a way to keep contractors employed,” he explained. If these workers are forced out of work a second time a few weeks from now, their unemployment claims are likely to be denied.
“Last year, we celebrated the 100-year anniversary of my local, Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 613, and we’ll be around for another hundred years,” James Williams said, looking toward a bright future for the labor movement in the north Georgia region. With volunteering events planned every other week for as long as they are needed, the members of the Atlanta-North Georgia Labor Council will be there to lift up their union family and their community.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 04/23/2020 - 14:47Tags: COVID-19, Community Service
Worker Safety Above Political Gain: In the States Roundup
It's time once again to take a look at the ways working people are making progress in the states. Click on any of the links to follow the state federations on Twitter.
California Labor Federation:
There are 11 days left until #MayDay2020 and front line workers still lack proper safety equipment, affordable, accessible health care & treatment. Show unity & #solidarity with workers of the world during this crisis. Sign the Workers' Bill of Rights now: https://t.co/VzdE9dXqp9 pic.twitter.com/50mBWxdvjD
— California Labor Federation (@CaliforniaLabor) April 21, 2020Connecticut AFL-CIO:
Our state's essential workers deserve to receive workers' comp benefits if they are stricken with #COVID19. Urge @GovNedLamont to sign an executive order today! #1u https://t.co/twboROWlsH
— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) April 20, 2020Florida AFL-CIO:
Florida’s Unemployment System is failing Florida.
Almost 94 percent of applicants haven’t received any support. For the few that have been approved, Florida’s weekly benefits are some of the lowest in the nation.
Sign the petition: https://t.co/3vmhNts86v pic.twitter.com/KRrxAyPve8
Georgia AFL-CIO:
Thousands of Georgians have been hit with job loss and food insecurity as our economy has reacted to the crisis. We’re proud to help our members & their families through hard times and ensure their safety at work when back on the job. #1u https://t.co/EziNbIfPrb
— Georgia AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOGeorgia) April 20, 2020Idaho State AFL-CIO:
The @CDCgov is prioritizing business over the safety of workers. We urge @CDCDirector to reissue guidance that treats essential workers as a priority. #EssentialNotExpendable
— Idaho State AFL-CIO (@IdahoAFLCIO) April 15, 2020Indiana State AFL-CIO:
The president wants to reopen the economy far too quickly. Worker safety and science have to come before politics and corporate profits.
Worker safety, economic recovery and public health are intertwined. Moving too fast or doing too little on one front makes everyone less safe.
Iowa Federation of Labor:
If you haven't received an Absentee Ballot Request form, apply here and mail back to your County Auditor: https://t.co/E5Kl2tkKd1
— Iowa AFL-CIO (@IowaAFLCIO) April 21, 2020Maine AFL-CIO:
If we had a few hundred more class conscious working people like Troy Jackson serving in Congress, we could turn this country around. #mepolitics https://t.co/xRA5KtJn6a
— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) April 17, 2020Michigan State AFL-CIO:
Proud to announce our endorsement of two great candidates for Michigan Supreme Court: https://t.co/BmN2qRMvd7 #1u
— Michigan AFL-CIO ? (@MIAFLCIO) April 20, 2020Minnesota AFL-CIO:
The COVID-19 pandemic has turned the world upside down. Working people are now faced with unprecedented challenges. We want to hear from you. What challenges are you facing? You can let us know by taking our short survey. https://t.co/5GT1PxBAVs #1u #StayHomeMN @aflcio #mnleg pic.twitter.com/SMVtmEpgfr
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) April 21, 2020Missouri AFL-CIO:
State Auditor Nicole Galloway continues to fight for workers on the front lines. https://t.co/rzMYjvUwuR
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) April 17, 2020Montana State AFL-CIO:
.@CooneyforMT & @Casey_Schreiner prioritize the needs of the ALL working Montanans who drive the state’s economy when they make decisions. #mtpol #mtgov https://t.co/T7EHcK6W0O
— Montana AFL-CIO (@MTaflcio) April 21, 2020New York State AFL-CIO:
Thank you to all those working hard during this crisis! #UnionStrong @nysut @CSEALocal1000 @uupinfo pic.twitter.com/8YMmNssmwl
— NYSAFLCIO (@NYSAFLCIO) April 21, 2020North Carolina State AFL-CIO:
What help is available for unemployed NC workers during the #COVID19 pandemic? We talked to our attorney to get answers to your questions about what can be a complicated system: https://t.co/E1znf5NES6 #1u
— NC State AFL-CIO (@NCStateAFLCIO) April 20, 2020Ohio AFL-CIO:
Nice. Now how about offering your workers free PPE, paid time off, and raises. https://t.co/0mik6BMRsA
— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) April 21, 2020Oregon AFL-CIO:
“If anyone can keep us safe, it’s the working class. They will be the ones that allow us to not only survive COVID-19 but thrive as a nation,” said Local 2003 President Anthony Holton.https://t.co/d1tod6Hca0
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) April 20, 2020Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:
“Our frontline workers are risking their lives to save others. More than a million Pennsylvanians have been laid off. This is not a time to play games with our lives and livelihoods.” @Darrinkellypgh @AlleghenyLabor https://t.co/fF4x8PIqlk
— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) April 20, 2020Rhode Island AFL-CIO:
COVID-19 Violence Prevention resources. pic.twitter.com/jpfdqEJNLN
— Rhode Island AFL-CIO (@riaflcio) April 21, 2020Tennessee AFL-CIO Labor Council:
"With each day of the coronavirus pandemic, Americans have grown increasingly grateful for things we used to take for granted, like grocery workers, without whom we could not meet our most basic needs."https://t.co/HZxJQY1H1k
— Tennessee AFL-CIO (@tnaflcio) April 21, 2020Texas AFL-CIO:
PRESS RELEASE: "Sadly, TX remains the only state that does not automatically provide workers' compensation to employees. Front line workers should not be forced to prove that COVID-19 was the result of a workplace contact to get benefits." https://t.co/VvAKyvU4gG
— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) April 20, 2020Virginia AFL-CIO:
#Quarantine isn’t complete without a union-made snack. Do you have yours? pic.twitter.com/AIhFTkDJbT
— Virginia AFL-CIO (@Virginia_AFLCIO) April 21, 2020Washington State Labor Council:
Check out Cherika's Corner, a new column spotlighting union members who are blazing a Path to Power and building power for working people. #1u #UnionStrong https://t.co/nkad4HT2D0
— WA State AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) April 20, 2020West Virginia AFL-CIO:
So many of our union sisters, brothers are working in essential professions. Here’s Lara Horn, NALC member, walking in Elk City. John Fallecker, NALC, is in Mink Shoals, & APWU member Josh Kitchen is working the Charleston office. Thanks Lara, John & Josh!! Stay Safe!!!?? pic.twitter.com/fcBXQmraGU
— West Virginia AFLCIO (@WestVirginiaAFL) April 20, 2020Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
Hats off to these American heroes. More than 40 employees lived at their plant for 28 days to make material to protect health care workers, https://t.co/MLaryeoHd2
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) April 21, 2020 Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 04/22/2020 - 12:57Defend Global Supply Chain Workers Facing the COVID-19 Pandemic
COVID-19 may not yet have sickened as many people in developing countries as in the United States or Europe, but more than 150 million workers in supply chains are already suffering the swift and massive impact of the pandemic. These workers have even less savings and weaker social protection systems than the very weak ones America's workers have. Just as we insist U.S. government assistance in this crisis must prioritize jobs and workers’ lives and livelihoods, global collective efforts must focus on millions of workers in global supply chains who have no safety net.
Global demand has plummeted and major corporations have stopped buying, many canceling orders already placed—even refusing to pay for goods already produced. Employers in these supply chains are cutting jobs and wages. Global garment workers, already facing some of the worst working and living conditions before the pandemic, are losing their precarious foothold on survival. At minimum, major garment brands and retailers must pay for work already done and goods already made or in production. Some companies have acted ethically; others have not.
Today, workers and employers announced a joint statement to work together in the garment industry at the global level to clarify principles that major brands and retailers must act on throughout this industry that has long depended on unsustainable practices and low wages.
ITUC General Secretary Sharan Burrow joined the call to action:
We cannot afford the human and economic devastation of the collapse of our global supply chains and millions more in developing economies thrown back into poverty. Jobs, incomes and social protection are the dividends of business continuity, and this statement calls for emergency funds and social protection for workers to guarantee industry survival in the poorest of our countries. Leadership and cooperation from all stakeholders are vital to realize a future based on resilience and decent work.
In the statement, employers and workers commit to work together to seek funding for the producing countries from governments and international financial institutions and other sources, so that workers can get wages, jobs can be preserved during the crisis and governments can commit to strengthen social protection programs in the future.
Like all statements of principle, this one is a first step that will mean nothing without immediate action and sustained collaboration with workers. Beyond paying wages, the industry must reform its labor relations and buying practices to fix problems that have existed for decades. The global labor movement and allies will track the behavior of governments that receive this assistance and the actions of buyers and suppliers in the supply chain, as well as the impacts of both on workers. Student labor activists are already tracking the follow-through by some brands from the United States.
Other industries need to collaborate globally and work upward from these principles, too, making more concrete commitments. Working with the global labor movement, the AFL-CIO will pursue these commitments to ensure that companies and governments fulfill their stated principles and ethical and legal commitments in this crisis and move toward globalization with social justice.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 04/22/2020 - 11:18Tags: COVID-19
San Diego and Imperial Counties Labor Council Launches Food Assistance Program
Keith Maddox is the executive secretary-treasurer of the San Diego and Imperial Counties Labor Council.
We are in an unforeseen crisis. Just a few weeks ago none of us could have predicted the economic impact created by the COVID-19 pandemic. Our members and our neighbors are in a financial and food crisis. Our entire labor council operation has converted to an emergency team focused on securing member benefits and running a substantial food distribution operation. To date we’ve distributed more than 150,000 pounds of food and served over 5,000 families in need. In the coming days, our distribution will provide food to more than 2,000 families per week, as our operations continually expand. I wish to commend our staff team for the work they are doing to keep this operation running, in the face of the health crisis swirling around them.
Our ability to provide for our members would not be possible without the support of a number of our unions. A big thanks to Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 465, Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 122 and United Domestic Workers (UDW)/AFSCME Local 3930 for assigning staff to our labor council food distribution in the City Heights community in San Diego, including scheduling appointments. Our team is ordering food to support our City Heights food bank, for the Unions United-United Way of San Diego County food bank, and for UNITE HERE Local 30’s and IBEW Local 569’s distributions to their members. We have secured a steady stream of food product and have recently opened an Imperial Valley distribution site for our members.
Last week, for the fourth Saturday in a row a team of labor council volunteers joined in solidarity to provide food to more than 1,000 families in need. These distributions to the general public have been in partnership with Feeding San Diego and the San Diego Food Bank. A big shout out to the unions serving on our logistics committee—Ironworkers Local 229, the San Diego Education Association, UDW, Local 122, UFCW Local 135 and Local 569. They are leading this effort with our labor council staff to make sure our distributions run efficiently, and the safety of our volunteers is maintained. In addition, we have had a large turnout of over 100 volunteers each week willing to provide a helping hand, and we thank them all.
I’d like to acknowledge both locals 30 and 122 for the effort they are making to support their impacted members. Both unions have essentially lost their entire memberships to layoffs. Many of these workers lost their jobs more than a month ago, due to conventions and major conferences canceling. They are hurting. Yet these two unions, with strong leadership and commitment, have assisted their members in filing unemployment claims, guiding them with utility and worker assistance processing, and making sure they are getting food for those most in need. This is a time that we all need to do our part to help these workers, and all of the other members who have lost their jobs and their paychecks!
FINANCIAL SUPPORT FOR UNION MEMBER FOOD: Providing food for our union members impacted by this health and economic crisis requires a constant purchase of food. You can support our efforts by sending union contributions to the labor council’s 501(c)(3) nonprofit fund that is certified to receive and distribute food with both the San Diego Food Bank and Feeding San Diego. All funds received will go to providing food for our union members in the coming days and weeks. A big shout out to Local 135, AFT Local 1931, OPEIU Local 30, California Teachers Association and San Diego Gas & Electric for their contributions to a Partnership for a Better San Diego. We’ve also secured more than 110 online donations from individuals.
UNIONS: Make checks out to A Partnership for a Better San Diego and mail or deliver to our labor council office. If you have questions, please contact Sandra Williams: swilliams@unionyes.org.
INDIVIDUAL DONORS: Send contributions by clicking: Union Member Relief Program.
FOOD DISTRIBUTION: All affiliated local unions have been provided a form to request assistance for their members. Please provide the labor council with names of those you wish to receive food. Once received, the labor council staff or staff from our member unions will call to set an appointment time. Food assistance is by appointment only. The Unions United food pantry is fully functional. You can contact its operation directly. You also will need to provide the information to schedule an appointment for food assistance.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 04/20/2020 - 15:14Tags: COVID-19
Finding Ways to Help: 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.
Boston-Area Union Members Form Volunteer Brigades: "The Greater Boston Labor Council (GBLC) is coordinating union members’ volunteer efforts, working closely with Boston Mayor Martin J. Walsh to focus on areas where there is the greatest need for help. The mission of the labor council’s volunteer brigades is to care for the most vulnerable people in Boston. Hundreds of union members, both laid off and currently working, have already started volunteering to serve their neighbors during this crisis."
Rhode Island AFL-CIO Helps Coordinate Distance Learning: "With American students learning from home, teachers, school staffers and their unions are stepping up in a variety of ways to create innovative solutions to meet the educational needs of young people during the coronavirus pandemic."
Service and Solidarity: Kennita Jones: "Kennita Jones is a roll mixer and has been working at Schmidt Baking Co. for 19 years. She is a member of Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers (BCTGM) Local 68 in Baltimore. Like so many of America’s workers deemed essential, Jones still leaves her family nearly every day and goes to work—despite the COVID-19 pandemic and the risk to her own health and that of her family's, she's proud to be doing important work during a crisis."
In Memoriam: Union Members Lost in COVID-19 Pandemic: "As the COVID-19 pandemic spreads across the United States, our sisters, brothers and friends in the labor movement are among the first casualties. It is important for us to work together during this crisis to prevent further deaths. It is important to thank those who are doing the work to keep us safe and fed. It is important to remember those who we lost because of the coronavirus."
Shame on Corporations Using COVID-19 Pandemic to Attack Workers: "While the COVID-19 pandemic wreaks its havoc on the world's population, working people are on the front lines, joining together to save lives and keep the United States running. And many are paying the ultimate price. The latest numbers from the CDC show that nearly 400,000 Americans have contracted the virus and more than 12,000 have died. We're currently facing one of the most challenging events in recent history. And some greedy corporations are using this time to attack these working people, attempting to use a crisis to roll back the rights of the very people who are dying while keeping America running."
Protect Essential Workers Now: In the States Roundup: "It's time once again to take a look at the ways working people are making progress in the states. Click on any of the links to follow the state federations on Twitter."
Fighting the Coronavirus: Service and Solidarity: "Meet Shekina Givens. She is an AFGE member and lead transportation security officer for the Transportation Security Administration and works at the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Airport. She and her co-workers are in constant danger of getting COVID-19, but they show up for work to protect the traveling public every day. Learn more about her and other TSA workers during these dangerous times."
Economy Loses 701,000 Jobs in March; Unemployment Jumps to 4.4%: "The U.S. economy lost 701,000 jobs in March, and the unemployment rate jumped by nearly a point to 4.4%, according to figures released [April 3] by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics."
Big Win on Back Pay: Worker Wins: "Our latest roundup of worker wins begins with a victory on back pay for NABET-CWA workers at CNN and includes numerous examples of working people organizing, bargaining and mobilizing for a better life."
On the Front Lines: 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."
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 04/15/2020 - 11:11Prioritize Essential Workers: 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:
The @DPEaflcio has compiled important information about government relief for federal student loans during the COVID-19 pandemic - https://t.co/CzcufnycDE pic.twitter.com/jSqmxpuNRd
— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) April 14, 2020AFGE:
The @CDCgov is prioritizing business over the safety of workers. We urge @CDCDirector to reissue guidance that treats essential workers as a priority. #EssentialNotExpendable
— AFGE (@AFGENational) April 15, 2020AFSCME:
The urgent need to make sure front-line workers have the protective equipment they need was the focus of a Facebook Live chat between AFSCME President Lee Saunders, @AFSCME93 Executive Director Mark Bernard and Sen. Ed Markey (D-Mass.). https://t.co/6c7kSQ3byl
— AFSCME ✊? (@AFSCME) April 15, 2020Air Line Pilots Association:
We salute ALPA #pilot Lt. Col. @KaiKahele (HAL) for answering the call to service in the @HiAirGuard. Thank you to all of our members who are continuing to help fight the #Covid19 pandemic on the #frontline. https://t.co/tN7HqoEkk6
— ALPA (@WeAreALPA) April 15, 2020Alliance for Retired Americans:
Trump’s #BigPharma allies are poised to profiteer off of the #COVIDpandemic. Tell your legislators we need affordable COVID drugs. Sign the petition today #NoPandemicProfiteering https://t.co/tNeuQO5xEv pic.twitter.com/73BroffPpa
— Alliance Retirees (@ActiveRetirees) April 15, 2020Amalgamated Transit Union:
“To not be paid at all—that’s a shock,” said Local 1764 Loudoun County bus driver Sandra Vigil, who supports five children and was laid off by Transdev.” https://t.co/FQ2NNp9nsu #1 #transit #COVID19
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) April 15, 2020American Federation of Musicians:
Rather than accuse us of cheating the system, Senator Graham should be figuring out how to support the millions of musicians & other working people who lost our jobs! https://t.co/77sGd1vOKI via @greenvillenews
— AFM (@The_AFM) April 15, 2020American Federation of Teachers:
Before the #COVID19 pandemic, 40% of Americans couldn't pull together $400 for an emergency expense. It's time that the wealthy and corporations pay their fair share. #IDemandAFairTaxCode pic.twitter.com/3QS0PXsc1b
— AFT (@AFTunion) April 15, 2020American Postal Workers Union:
This is a great initiative from @DMIAPWU https://t.co/QBF2lISrEy
— APWU National (@APWUnational) April 15, 2020Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance:
Leaders, members, and allies of APALA mourn, remember, and celebrate the life of former Executive Director, Jin Sook Lee.
Thank you for your lifelong fight for social justice and the international movement for workers' rights and gender justice ? ? ?https://t.co/8gIAer8HT0 pic.twitter.com/tyef22lYvF
Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:
Remembering our brothers at jetBlue who we lost over the last week from COVID-19. Our hearts go out to the entire jetBlue family, @transportworker & @WeAreALPA.
We will Never Forget Jared Lovos, Manuel Gomez, Ralph Gismondi, Kevin McAdoo, and Ray Pabon. pic.twitter.com/a3DiKw7hfY
Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers:
Essential workers who are exposed to #COVID19 and forced to keep working endangers public health. We’re calling on the @CDCDirector to retract these dangerous guidelines and put workers’ safety first. #EssentialNotExpendable pic.twitter.com/fZcFBpa9rc
— BCTGM International (@BCTGM) April 15, 2020Boilermakers:
Thank you ❤️ to the men and women who are going to work every day to make sure we have food, hardware and other necessities ? during this awful crisis. And thank you for representing them, @UFCW pic.twitter.com/IVuLM1Ll3l
— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) April 15, 2020Bricklayers:
Instead of the @CDCgov guidance, essential workers need: Enforced safety & health protections; Guaranteed paid sick leave for all workers; Workers’ compensation protections and benefits. #EssentialNotExpendable #COVID19 #1u pic.twitter.com/Ng90ySnbFb
— Bricklayers Union (@IUBAC) April 15, 2020Coalition of Labor Union Women:
Ask Congress to protect kids and provide emergency #ChildWelfareCOVID funding.https://t.co/sGmroAhpsa pic.twitter.com/YuanVmtt5C
— CLUW National (@CLUWNational) April 15, 2020Communications Workers of America:
Call center workers are speaking out to demand companies like @OfficialAlorica, @CyraCom, @TheResultsComp take action to protect workers from COVID-19! #1u #ProtectCallCenterWorkers
Read more: https://t.co/OZv5PR2wN9 pic.twitter.com/eiEYwk7WlC
Department for Professional Employees:
Healthcare professionals should not be laid off during a pandemic. #1u https://t.co/Av3mvCTCcR
— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) April 15, 2020Electrical Workers:
Alaska #IBEW coordinates a major mask-making project for Fairbanks Memorial Hospital https://t.co/jLV7D3cyvc
— IBEW (@IBEW) April 15, 2020Fire Fighters:
The #IAFF has developed a resource for first responders on treating patients who may have been exposed to the #Coronavirus. Please review for the latest information and guidance. pic.twitter.com/2xUNlLVkwA
— IAFF (@IAFFNewsDesk) April 14, 2020Heat and Frost Insulators:
Having quality infectious disease control can prevent the spread of infectious diseases, such as the Coronavirus. Learn about infectious disease control and how the Insulators have been at the forefront, here:https://t.co/HhFsWIf5V8
— Insulators Union (@InsulatorsUnion) April 14, 2020IUE-CWA:
Too many workers don’t have paid sick or family leave in the face of the COVID-19 panic. Call your senator now and demand they extend paid sick days & paid family leave to ALL workers by passing the P.A.I.D. Leave Act (S.3513): 1-855-980-2231! pic.twitter.com/Ew0Kfgn7Na
— IUE-CWA (@IUE_CWAUnion) April 9, 2020Jobs With Justice:
THREAD: Today, JWJ sent letters to the five largest corporate landlords DEMANDING they:
? Forgive unpaid rents during the COVID crisis
? Cease evictions and foreclosures
? Support housing relief
If no response — we strike #OurHouseOurRules
Join us: https://t.co/tUBIkblXUw pic.twitter.com/4ho7ipGm8V
Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:
See our letter asking @CDCgov to retract its dangerous guidelines for essential workers exposed to #COVID19. Worker safety is essential! #EssentialNotExpendable: https://t.co/PITCYeKi2w
— LCLAA (@LCLAA) April 15, 2020Laborers:
Make sure ALL #COVID19 safety measures are in place! #Coronavirus #SafetyFirst pic.twitter.com/lHR5rwEviT
— LIUNA (@LIUNA) April 15, 2020Longshoremen:
Sister of ILA President Harold Daggett @ILAUnion @TheILAmobileApp Passes Away from Coronavirus. Bettejane Daggett Jaeger Was 75https://t.co/hVjUiXljRT pic.twitter.com/xhjppPxMEd
— Int'l LongshoreAssoc (@ILAUnion) April 8, 2020Machinists:
Shoutout to Aaron Roberson and the many other members of @IAM264Boston who are working hard to keep @MBTA rolling for healthcare workers and others on the front lines of the #COVID19 crisis https://t.co/TVZrnz6lZm
— Machinists Union ✈️?? (@MachinistsUnion) April 15, 2020Maritime Trades Department:
Public service workers on the #COVIDfrontlines are facing unprecedented situations. @senatemajldr @GOPleader: We need at least $300 billion in direct and unrestricted aid to state & local govts so that local communities have the resources they need to weather this pandemic.
— MaritimeTrades (@Maritime_Trades) April 9, 2020Metal Trades Department:
A comprehensive U.S. manufacturing policy is needed now more than ever | Economic Policy Institute https://t.co/BbXyU8dAjl
— Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) April 14, 2020Mine Workers:
This grant means the Career Centers can continue doing their unmatched work, which is especially important in these very difficult times. – @CecilRoberts https://t.co/86827flZUm
— United Mine Workers (@MineWorkers) April 14, 2020Musical Artists:
Amid the COVID-19 crisis, the AGMA Relief Fund has graciously received donations and support from around the world. We want to take a moment to thank the media outlets (like @cnn, @vulture, @billboard) for including the AGMA Relief Fund in its resource lists!
— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) April 9, 2020National Air Traffic Controllers Association:
Cloth and surgical face masks are another layer of protection we may choose for ourselves. Here are some tips from our NATCA OSHA Reps and NATCA's Industrial Hygienist.
Never touch the inside of the N95 respirator. Wash hands immediately after removing the mask. pic.twitter.com/sy7qHkgxnj
National Association of Letter Carriers:
Episode 8 of You Are the Current Resident Podcast is out! Executive VP Renfroe gives an update on the COVID-19 pandemic.
Listen here: https://t.co/oQG40nB9Aa #YATCRPod
National Day Laborer Organizing Network:
The federal #Covid19 response excludes undocumented workers from relief. What about the rest of us? #YNosotrosQue- will California do better, Gov @GavinNewsom?
Let's ensure immediate aid to all workers in California.#EssentialAndExcluded #WorkerMigrantJustice
National Domestic Workers Alliance:
To ensure domestic workers & caregivers can keep doing essential work on the frontlines, we need #CareForAll.
That means protections & benefits for essential workers, allowing care workers to prioritize their health, and family care benefits for essential workers & caregivers.
National Nurses United:
.@MNnurses president to Minnesota lawmakers: We are at war. We are the nurses. We are on the front line. We head into the hospitals every day with what little PPE we have and that’s our armor.#ProtectNurses #COVID19 https://t.co/o0NJXoefWF
— NationalNursesUnited (@NationalNurses) April 15, 2020National Taxi Workers Alliance:
At least 28 professional drivers in New York City have died of COVID-19, and tens of thousands more are facing financial ruin, forced to choose between staying home and risking their lives. Drivers need benefits immediately in order to survive.
— NY Taxi Workers (@NYTWA) April 14, 2020NFL Players Association:
You heard the man ?
(Active players + FAs: https://t.co/POArHF9LDb) https://t.co/gWJbDMqfsO
North America's Building Trades Unions:
Now THIS is amazing. @IBEW volunteers in MO are partnering w/ a local group to “adopt a family” by providing grocery shopping & delivery services to community members in need, while also sewing face masks for the elderly ?#BuildingTradesWhateverItTakeshttps://t.co/jObc5PIkzc
— The Building Trades (@NABTU) April 15, 2020Office and Professional Employees:
If workers on the front lines are as essential as the government says, then they deserve far more comprehensive protections than the @CDCgov’s interim guidelines. #EssentialNotExpendable #1u pic.twitter.com/K5UGuMrJKq
— OPEIU (@OPEIU) April 15, 2020Painters and Allied Trades:
Construction is the 6th largest industry in the US economy. During #COVID19, we don't have the luxury to work from home.
Healthcare coverage is on the line for workers like Tiffany. We need @RepSteveStivers, @RepDaveJoyce & @MikeTurnerOH to fight for #WorkersFirst in Congress. pic.twitter.com/tL11B7x92F
Pride At Work:
The Postal Service must not be allowed to fail. #Savethe PostOffice https://t.co/HvpFofirlF
— Pride at Work (@PrideatWork) April 12, 2020Professional Aviation Safety Specialists:
PASS sends condolences to family of sailor aboard USS Roosevelt who succumbed to COVID-19. Many PASS members are vets who could have served with you. When it is time time to bring all of you home, our members on Guam & around nation stand ready to assist.https://t.co/Em085AfPWj
— PASS (@PASSNational) April 13, 2020Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:
People are struggling to cope mentally as they stay inside during lockdown.
But throughout this crisis, many workers out there are on the front lines providing essential services to keep things running.
We must honor essential workers with proper protection and fair pay! pic.twitter.com/ozaCeF5lGN
SAG-AFTRA:
The information you’re looking for, all in one place!
Click the link https://t.co/ZHBtTembC3 and find your resources by state or local #sagaftramember #COVID19 pic.twitter.com/6VwiBblcYG
Solidarity Center:
Workers in #Mexico who are fired unlawfully during #COVID-19 may have to wait at least 4 yrs before their complaints are resolved, lawyers warn, potentially leaving tens of thousands with no income or state benefits. #coronavirus @ProDESChttps://t.co/T2UbMJfT8f
— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) April 15, 2020TCU/IAM:
ICYMI: Local Lodge 90 President Charlie Quinn (@LIRR) spoke to @WNYC about his experience working during the pandemic, and concerns about bringing the virus home. Stay safe, Charlie! #HeroesMovingHeroes CC: @MachinistsUnion @TTDAFLCIO @OneRailUSA https://t.co/fyU5wdH3IS pic.twitter.com/1gpa0IGXgW
— Transportation Communications Union/IAM (@TCUnionHQ) April 14, 2020The NewsGuild-CWA:
That's why the NewsGuild is proposing a news industry stimulus in the next package -- to protect jobs and strengthen reliable news coverage. https://t.co/CKrh17oUGz https://t.co/RXXbTMcwje via @business
— NewsGuild (@newsguild) April 15, 2020Theatrical Stage Employees:
Susan is the Hair and Makeup Supervisor for the new Broadway show, “Girl From The North Country”. During the COVID-19 crisis, Susan has been doing her part by donating masks, checking on her family, friends and colleagues. #IATSE #Memberstoryhttps://t.co/8I06maHP0T pic.twitter.com/vsvCOcEXix
— IATSE (@IATSE) April 14, 2020Transportation Trades Department:
From TTD Pres. Larry Willis: If a [rail] carrier finds itself short on active employees, its first option must be found in the abundant supply of out-of-work railroaders, not in administrative intervention to be exempted from safety-critical regulations. https://t.co/DLpmbUsTOj
— Transp. Trades Dept. (@TTDAFLCIO) April 15, 2020UAW:
Social distancing is hard on all of us, including kids at home while schools are closed. Keep them occupied and share a bit of union history with these coloring pages! https://t.co/VChxJGDuBM
— UAW (@UAW) April 14, 2020Union Veterans Council:
This did not need to happen. https://t.co/yrF1x6sdbY
— Union Veterans Council (@unionveterans) April 13, 2020UNITE HERE:
“Words on a paper are one thing. Actions in reality are another thing.” - @DTaylorUH
It's time for hospitality industry leaders like @Marriott to take real action to protect their workers.#COVID19 #uniteherehttps://t.co/29OIcxzS7T
United Food and Commercial Workers:
Wondering how you can support grocery workers who help feed our families and keep us safe? #ShopSmart on your next grocery trip by wearing a mask and giving people plenty of space.
Check out https://t.co/nmUiv1Y70o and RT to spread the word. Together we can make a difference. pic.twitter.com/XgE676QAW1
United Steelworkers:
We are not expendable. That's why we're urging @CDCDirector to retract guidelines that endanger essential workers. Workers exposed to #COVID19 must self-quarantine to protect their safety & health and ours! #FlattenTheCurve #EssentialNotExpendable More: https://t.co/XbmAnv3oTT pic.twitter.com/NZsz10UueM
— United Steelworkers (@steelworkers) April 15, 2020United Students Against Sweatshops:
@Northeastern RAs like Alana, pictured here, are being kicked off of campus during the pandemic without being provided any housing refunds, financial assistance, or even PPE for those who are still working. Read Alana’s story here: https://t.co/Go1OvkGqDB #StudentWorkerWednesdays pic.twitter.com/IGYcMlF8Ef
— USAS (@USAS) April 15, 2020Utility Workers:
Our members are working tirelessly during the #COVID19 /#coronavirus pandemic to provide vital services for our families and communities. Give a like and retweet to show your appreciation! pic.twitter.com/Xsr6W1VumE
— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) April 15, 2020Working America:
Good ideas to combat coronavirus
?front line worker protections
?paid sick leave
?cash payments to households
?investment in social safety net
BAD ideas to combat coronavirus
❌corporate tax cuts
❌payroll tax cuts
❌industry bailouts#IDemandAFairTaxCode #PeopleOverProfits
Writers Guild of America, East:
The WGAE has filed a ULP against @NBCUniversal for #unionbusting. Read about it in Realscreen.https://t.co/CuSN34v04X
— Writers Guild of America, East (@WGAEast) April 15, 2020 Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 04/14/2020 - 12:39Boston-Area Union Members Form Volunteer Brigades
The Greater Boston Labor Council (GBLC) is coordinating union members’ volunteer efforts, working closely with Boston Mayor Martin J. Walsh to focus on areas where there is the greatest need for help. The mission of the labor council’s volunteer brigades is to care for the most vulnerable people in Boston. Hundreds of union members, both laid off and currently working, have already started volunteering to serve their neighbors during this crisis.
The labor council’s volunteer brigades are focusing on three emergency needs: providing child care, making phone calls to neighbors and delivering food. Darlene Lombos, the executive secretary-treasurer of GBLC, is in daily contact with Walsh and his office to ensure that union members are volunteering for the public good in ways that are most helpful.
“It’s about connecting the dots and making sure union members are protecting the most vulnerable. What we thought was not possible—it’s quite incredible, in a crisis like this, to see how possible some of these things are,” Lombos said. “The solidarity here is just amazing. This is an incredible opportunity to deepen that solidarity.”
The Boston Teachers Union has enlisted more than 1,000 volunteers to supply urgent child care services. Multilingual members of UNITE HERE Local 26 are being sent to neighborhoods with large immigrant populations to respond to their needs. And members of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 11, all of whom are laid off, have been making food deliveries across the city.
Other union members are making phone calls from home to remind and help their neighbors fill out census forms. The Metropolitan Boston Building and Construction Trades Council is donating personal protective equipment to health care professionals.
Rachael Running, the communications organizer at GBLC, has been highlighting individual workers on the labor council’s website and social media channels. “Our Front-Line Heroes campaign is giving a voice to individual workers and paying respect,” Running said. “It’s also a way to celebrate our affiliates.”
The GBLC leadership praised the work of affiliate unions fighting to create a fairer economy after the crisis subsides. “Unions that are doing impact bargaining are doing incredible work to set the floor for other workers that are nonunionized,” Lombos said. She also commended the cooperation between union and nonunion employees on the front lines.
To workers who are suffering across the country, Lombos shared a message of solidarity: “We have your back. We respect you, we honor you, and we’ll be here to organize with you.”
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 04/13/2020 - 10:10Tags: COVID-19, Community Service
Shame on Corporations Using COVID-19 Pandemic to Attack Workers
While the COVID-19 pandemic wreaks its havoc on the world's population, working people are on the front lines, joining together to save lives and keep the United States running. And many are paying the ultimate price. The latest numbers from the CDC show that nearly 400,000 Americans have contracted the virus and more than 12,000 have died. We're currently facing one of the most challenging events in recent history.
And some greedy corporations are using this time to attack these working people, attempting to use a crisis to roll back the rights of the very people who are dying while keeping America running.
Here are the corporations that have used the pandemic to attack the rights of working people.
Amazon: A coalition of labor and community organizations, including the AFL-CIO, wrote: "We write to you today shocked at reports that Amazon warehouses are not practicing the protocols necessary to protect the well-being of your workers and of the public. And we are outraged to hear that not only did Amazon executives NOT promptly address the concerns being articulated by your own workers, but you actually fired one of the lead whistleblowers immediately following his courageous action [March 30]. We call for the swift reinstatement of Chris Smalls to reassure all workers and observers that speaking out about improvements needed to health and safety practices right now is not only tolerated, but WELCOMED as critically important to all of our well-being."
Everlane: Employees who voted to join a union at the end of 2019 were laid off before the company recognized the union. "According to one of the laid-off employees (who has requested anonymity, but who we’ll call Megan for this article) the local Communications Workers of America (CWA) union sent a letter to Everlane seeking job reinstatement and union recognition. The union members asked for formal recognition on March 23, just days before the layoffs. The intention to unionize was first announced at the end of 2019, but because of the 'high turnove'” rate of the role, according to Megan, they weren’t able to reach a strong enough majority until March. Megan added that Everlane did not respond to the unionization effort before they were laid off." Everlane has denied the layoffs were related to the union drive.
Kennedy Center: After President Donald Trump signed relief legislation that included $25 million for the Kennedy Center, management laid off National Symphony Orchestra members. The District of Columbia Federation of Musicians/AFM Local 161-710 accused the Kennedy Center of violating the collective bargaining agreement that covers the orchestra members. The co-chair of the federation, Steve Wilson, said: "Kennedy Center president Deborah Rutter illegally decided to stop paying us, and refused to promise to continue our healthcare past May. We have, throughout, been willing to collaborate and discuss ways to work with Kennedy Center management during this challenging time. Illegally breaking our contract isn't an option here." After the union complained, the center reversed its decision.
Northwestern Memorial Hospital (Chicago): "Lauri Mazurkiewicz, a nurse who lives outside Chicago, grew nervous when she was repeatedly exposed to patients diagnosed with covid-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus. 'This is so contagious. It’s spreading so fast. I need an N95 mask....She happened to have an N95 and began wearing it during her rounds at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, she said, but was told the hospital was prohibiting the use of N95 masks and using regular surgical masks instead....She sent an email warning her colleagues that those masks were less effective. She was fired shortly afterward—the result, she alleged in a lawsuit against the hospital, of her attempts to 'disclose public corruption and/or wrongdoing.'"
Oklahoma Heart Hospital (Oklahoma City): "Kevin Readel, another nurse in Oklahoma City, said he was fired for a similar reason—but in his case, it was for insisting on wearing a mask while with patients. He said he was told 'point blank that I can’t wear a mask' because it 'could cause fear and anxiety amongst the other nurses and the patients.' He filed a suit against Oklahoma Heart Hospital South for wrongful termination, claiming that 'the hospital was more concerned about the perception of due diligence than actually performing due diligence.'"
Powell's Bookstore: After announcing that the bookstore would lay off most of its workforce because of the coronavirus pandemic, Powell's said they were hiring 100 workers, full-time and with benefits. "The International Longshore and Warehouse Union, Local 5, says only 49 of those 100-plus staffers were laid off in the first place. The others 'are management staff, doing frontline bookseller, shelver and shipping work, instead of the union workers who were trained to do this work and did that work every day....While frontline booksellers, shelvers and shippers remain on layoff status, Powell’s has trumpeted the fact that ‘over 100 workers’ have been brought back to work. While we understand the difficult nature of the situation COVID-19 has created in our society, we remain incredibly disappointed in how Powell’s has dealt with this situation and treated workers.'"
Select Specialty Hospital (Oklahoma City): A nurse, Laura Moreno, was told she could not wear a protective mask in the hospital's common areas. "I was told if I wanted to wear a mask, I would not be working there. So I said I’m not willing to put my life at risk, and my contract was terminated....But by the next afternoon, after The Post had contacted the hospital, she said hospital officials 'had completely changed their tune' and decided to allow nurses to wear masks throughout the hospital and not just in patient rooms. On Friday, she went back to work."
This list will be updated as more stories come in.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 04/09/2020 - 11:09Tags: COVID-19
Rhode Island AFL-CIO Helps Coordinate Distance Learning
With American students learning from home, teachers, school staffers and their unions are stepping up in a variety of ways to create innovative solutions to meet the educational needs of young people during the coronavirus pandemic.
In Rhode Island, the AFT and the National Education Association (NEA) are working closely with Gov. Gina Raimondo, and the Rhode Island AFL-CIO is helping coordinate their efforts.
After Raimondo decided to close all of Rhode Island’s schools on March 23, one of the first things she did was reach out to the leaders of AFT and NEA to ask for their help with developing distance learning programs so students would continue to receive a quality education. The unions together represent about 12,000 teachers and school support staff across Rhode Island.
“We knew it wasn’t going to be perfect, but it’s been phenomenal so far,” said Pat Crowley (NEA), the newly elected secretary-treasurer of the Rhode Island AFL-CIO. “Teachers are going above and beyond the call of duty, improvising as they go along and getting lesson plans ready for this new world.”
Crowley, in his new role with the Rhode Island AFL-CIO, has been helping to coordinate communication between Rhode Island’s unions, the governor’s office, and other government officials. He’s also been working with AFT and NEA leaders and the Department of Education to answer member questions about distance learning, certification and pension credits. He said concerns are being addressed almost immediately and in the spirit of collaboration.
Support staffers are paying close attention to the needs of their students, including their safety and mental health. Rhode Island school district employees have all hands on deck. For example, school bus drivers in some school districts are dropping off food at students’ homes.
Crowley praised the tireless efforts of all essential workers during this time of crisis: “If you see someone working on the front lines, chances are pretty good they’re a union member. We have pulled together to share information, and the communication between our unions has really been something to see.”
“Even with social distancing, the strength of the labor movement comes from our social solidarity,” he said.
Union members are certainly being put to the test, and the members who teach and work in Rhode Island’s public school districts are passing with flying colors.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 04/08/2020 - 15:51Tags: COVID-19
Service and Solidarity: Kennita Jones
Kennita Jones is a roll mixer and has been working at Schmidt Baking Co. for 19 years. She is a member of Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers (BCTGM) Local 68 in Baltimore. Like so many of America’s workers deemed essential, Jones still leaves her family nearly every day and goes to work—despite the COVID-19 pandemic and the risk to her own health and that of her family's, she's proud to be doing important work during a crisis.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 04/08/2020 - 14:50Tags: COVID-19
Protect Essential Workers Now: In the States Roundup
It's time once again to take a look at the ways working people are making progress in the states. Click on any of the links to follow the state federations on Twitter.
Find state-by-state COVID-19-related resources here.
California Labor Federation:
|￣￣￣￣￣￣ |
| HAZARD PAY |
| PPE & PAID |
| SICK LEAVE |
| FOR ALL |
| ESSENTIAL |
| WORKERS |
|＿＿＿＿＿___ |
(\__/) ||
(•ㅅ•) ||
/ づ
Colorado AFL-CIO:
#COVID19Colorado #COVID19 #UnEmploymentClaims pic.twitter.com/ya90TRNHay
— Colorado AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOCO) April 2, 2020Connecticut AFL-CIO:
At least 3 @UFCW members in CT have contracted #COVID19. These workers are tired and scared. Please remember to keep 6 feet from these workers and other customers and when possible, send only one family member to the store at a time. https://t.co/TlC21YBBzT
— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) April 6, 2020Florida AFL-CIO:
Florida has one of the worst Unemployment Systems in the country, thanks to Rick Scott.
With thousands of Floridians out of work,Governor DeSantis must act now to fix our broken system.
Click here to sign the petition: Florida workers need relief!https://t.co/mUkkYDYyfU pic.twitter.com/zL3OCZC4sS
Georgia AFL-CIO:
#wearethefrontline and the workers who are keeping our state healthy and safe need strong protections. Thank you @StateRepRhondaB for standing work workers!! https://t.co/N964NwtDHR
— Georgia AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOGeorgia) April 3, 2020Indiana State AFL-CIO:
Our #FrontlineWorkers are vulnerable because the Trump administration squandered nearly two months when they should have been bolstering our national inventory and increasing the production of personal protective equipment (PPE). https://t.co/tCybFiwDbC
— Indiana AFL-CIO (@INAFLCIO) April 7, 2020Iowa Federation of Labor:
Has your employer offered you extra leave due to COVID-19? pic.twitter.com/qUb01ZjkKX
— Iowa AFL-CIO (@IowaAFLCIO) April 6, 2020Maine AFL-CIO:
Do you have a question about applying for unemployment insurance? Do you need help filing? Our experienced staff members can help! Just click the link, fill out the form and we will be in touch. https://t.co/8a9juKj8LO
— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) April 1, 2020Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
Please contact your State Rep and Senator to ask them to sign on and help slow the spread of #COVID19. #1u #Solidarity https://t.co/GBtxe0gxQd
— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) April 2, 2020Metro Washington (D.C.) Council, AFL-CIO:
Contractor cuts cleaning staff during pandemic https://t.co/b3dovlRgxP
— streetheat@dclabor.org (@DCLabor) April 7, 2020Michigan AFL-CIO:
There's plenty you can still do while following @GovWhitmer's #StayHomeStaySafe order: pic.twitter.com/JPMFFkY06E
— miaflcio (@MIAFLCIO) April 2, 2020Minnesota AFL-CIO:
Shutdown of music venues sidelines musicians https://t.co/0YhJZQw0v7 #1u pic.twitter.com/TMVeC8te7b
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) April 6, 2020Missouri AFL-CIO:
Researchers have long known that unionized workplaces – whether in mining, construction, manufacturing or warehouses – are significantly safer for employees than non-union workplaces. https://t.co/oRdtJmxVs6
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) April 7, 2020Montana AFL-CIO:
.@SteveDaines spiking the football for legislation he voted against is pretty on-brand. https://t.co/9PGtU9pIrr
— Montana AFL-CIO (@MTaflcio) April 3, 2020Nebraska State AFL-CIO:
Tell Trump to use the National Defense Production Act to produce desperately needed protective equipment healthcare and other workers need to keep themselves, patients and the public safe.
Sign here: https://t.co/ukfLR0Lz6q
New York State AFL-CIO:
Opinion | The federal government has an agency with the power to protect doctors, nurses, delivery workers and other “essential personnel” on the pandemic front lines. It’s time to use it. https://t.co/zrAn1SwBJ7 via @politico
— NYSAFLCIO (@NYSAFLCIO) April 7, 2020North Carolina State AFL-CIO:
SHAME: Mission Health seeks second union hearing delay, blames pandemic https://t.co/LuU8ZitDiA. #COVID19 #AVL #1u
— NC State AFL-CIO (@NCStateAFLCIO) April 6, 2020Ohio AFL-CIO:
Need a quick and easy way to navigate questions about unemployment compensation benefits? The #Ohio @AFLCIO has you covered.
Click here: https://t.co/bzaQsjPckC
Oklahoma State AFL-CIO:
Five Years and Counting: Online Voter Registration Won’t Be Ready in 2020https://t.co/JkbZqVucLj
— Oklahoma AFL-CIO (@OK_AFL_CIO) April 3, 2020Oregon AFL-CIO:
New #podcast episode! How the spread of #Coronavirus is impacting working people, and what you can do, right now, to help frontline workers.https://t.co/4xWYxvrpzP
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) April 5, 2020Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:
President @RWBloomingdale gives his state of the unions speech at our 44th Constitutional Convention! #Solidarity #PPENow pic.twitter.com/GFvLVUj2XO
— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) April 6, 2020Rhode Island AFL-CIO:
Firefighters fear coronavirus-fueled supply shortages soon https://t.co/yHR4YMIWcO via @nbcnews #1U #Unions #UnionStrong #IAFF #Firefighters
— Rhode Island AFL-CIO (@riaflcio) April 6, 2020Texas AFL-CIO:
Workers need immediate intervention from Congress. Their livelihoods are on the line.
The CARES Act does not go far enough. Congress must ensure frontline workers are protected on the job and workers are kept on the payroll. https://t.co/bmdKz6jME9
Virginia AFL-CIO:
.@GovernorVA Maybe we have to say it a little louder, Twitter is a little crowded today *clears throat*: ?WILL YOU PROTECT WORKING VIRGINIANS BY SIGNING ONTO COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AND MINIMUM WAGE INCREASE LEGISLATION? #WorkerVoices #AskGovNortham #WorkersFirst pic.twitter.com/VpDJSaz3DO
— Virginia AFL-CIO (@Virginia_AFLCIO) April 2, 2020Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
ATTN: If you have an absentee ballot, it must be postmarked by today, April 7, or hand delivered by 8:00 p.m. April 7 to:
your municipal clerk’s office
your polling location
a designated absentee ballot drop-off location
Fighting the Coronavirus: Service and Solidarity
Meet Shekina Givens. She is an AFGE member and lead transportation security officer for the Transportation Security Administration and works at the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Airport. She and her co-workers are in constant danger of getting COVID-19, but they show up for work to protect the traveling public every day. Learn more about her and other TSA workers during these dangerous times.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 04/06/2020 - 09:08Tags: COVID-19
Economy Loses 701,000 Jobs in March; Unemployment Jumps to 4.4%
The U.S. economy lost 701,000 jobs in March, and the unemployment rate jumped by nearly a point to 4.4%, according to figures released Friday morning by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
In response to the March job numbers, AFL-CIO Chief Economist William Spriggs said:
Though the recent spikes in unemployment claims were not captured in the March report, we experienced our steepest monthly decline in payrolls in this report since March 2009. Especially hard hit were the lowest wage sectors of the economy: leisure and hospitality and brick and mortar sections of the retail industry. Going forward, based on the unemployment claim numbers, things will get worse.
He also tweeted:
Bad news, @BLS_gov reports drop of 701,000 in March (for the week that ended before the increase in crowd reduction orders) boosting the unemployment rate to 4.4%. The household survey reported 1.048 million increase in temporary layoff versus a smaller 172,000 permanent job loss
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) April 3, 2020The average hourly earnings gain of 3.1% over last year is tainted because of the 701,000 jobs lost, 417,000 were in food and drinking service establishments and another 29,000 in accommodations. Leisure & hospitality is the lowest wage industry. @AFLCIO
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) April 3, 2020Payrolls dropped (moving leftward on the graph) in almost all industries, with the biggest losses in leisure & hospitality. Higher wage industries (moving up in the graph) had fewer job losses. This change, in part boosted average wage growth to 3.1% over last year. @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/gfSTYtcKmh
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) April 3, 2020There was a big spike in the household survey of people reporting being on temporary layoff (the aqua colored line at the bottom) compared to permanent job losses (darker blue line). @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/438erLf8Fw
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) April 3, 2020The biggest job loss, 459,000 jobs, was in leisure & hospitality. The frustration is that back in January and February it was well known that it may become necessary to limit public gatherings and to shut down this industry. So, this is not a shock. It is poor planning. @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/hLEZzEVyMu
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) April 3, 2020For those who do not understand American workers, and think that boosting the replacement rate of wages lost by increasing unemployment insurance, note that when Americans see massive job losses, they stop leaving jobs. This current job loss is planned, we have to plan better. pic.twitter.com/5GYf1eixgj
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) April 3, 2020The monthly labor report is two separate surveys, one of households and one of payrolls from establishments. So, they don't have to always agree. The establishment survey reported a drop of 701,000 people on payroll, households (shown here) reported 1,223,000 people lost jobs pic.twitter.com/QZ6YWKrmqE
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) April 3, 2020Last month's biggest job losses were in leisure and hospitality (-459,000), health care and social assistance (-61,000), professional and business services (-52,000), retail trade (-46,000), construction (-29,000), other services (-24,000), manufacturing (-18,000) and mining (-6,000). Federal government employment added 18,000 jobs, primarily 2020 Census workers. Employment in other major industries—including wholesale trade, transportation and warehousing, information, and financial activities—changed little over the month.
In March, unemployment rates rose among all major worker groups. The rate was 14.3% for teenagers, 6.7% for blacks, 6.0 % for Hispanics, 4.1% for Asians, 4.0% for adult men, 4.0% for adult women and 4.0% for whites.
The number of long-term unemployed (those jobless for 27 weeks or more) showed little change in March and accounted for 15.9% of the unemployed.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 04/03/2020 - 12:24Big Win on Back Pay: Worker Wins
Our latest roundup of worker wins begins with a victory on back pay for NABET-CWA workers at CNN and includes numerous examples of working people organizing, bargaining and mobilizing for a better life.
NABET-CWA Workers Win $76 Million in Back Pay from CNN: Locals 11 and 31 of NABET-CWA have negotiated one of the largest back pay settlements in the history of the NLRB. CNN is required to bay $76 million to hundreds of broadcast technicians who were fired when CNN terminated a subcontract with Team Video Services. NABET-CWA President Charlie Braico said: “After more than 15 years, this settlement agreement finally delivers justice for workers who experienced serious hardship in their lives due to CNN’s union-busting practices. This incredible settlement in workers’ favor should send a very clear message to CNN and to other employers that union-busting is illegal and has consequences.”
University of California-Santa Cruz Trades Workers End Strike with New Contract: Dozens of carpenters, plumbers, electricians and other trades workers at the University of California, Santa Cruz, ended a strike with victory as they ratified a new contract representing for the 49 AFSCME Local 3299 members. Electrician Joe Baxter said: “I’m just really proud of our people that we held the line and were able to get a fair and good contract. In the end, I felt like UCSC came through and gave us a fair contract.”
King County, Washington, Water District Workers Win New Contract: Members of the Operating Engineers (IUOE) Local 302 capped months of negotiations with a victory as the commissioners of King County Water District 19 approved a union contract, the first in the district's history. Shop steward Dominic Jovanovich said: “It was definitely tense at first, but we knew our supporters would come out for us and show solidarity because we know that organized labor is strong together. We were happy the board made the right decision and we’re excited to move forward.”
Joliet Marijuna Workers Join UFCW: A majority of the 95 employees at the Cresco Labs marijuana cultivation facility in Joliet, Illinois, voted to join the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW). This is the first successful organizing drive in Illinois since recreational marijuana use was legalized. The workers are seeking better pay and more comprehensive health benefits.
Sports Illustrated Editorial Employees Vote for NewsGuild Representation: More than 90% of the editorial employees have voted to join the The NewGuild of New York-CWA. The new unit covers some 80 writers, editors, producers and other editorial staff in print, digital and video. Top issues for the workers are job security, severance, layoff protections, pay equity, workplace safety, diversity in hiring and advancement, and a voice in editorial strategy. Senior writer Jenny Vrentas said: "As journalists, we hold the teams and athletes we cover accountable. It is our responsibility to do the same in our own workplace. We are unionizing to ensure that Sports Illustrated is a safe, inclusive place to work, where all employees are treated equally and can continue to perform our jobs at a high level.”
Google Cafeteria Workers Join UNITE HERE: Approximately 2,300 cafeteria workers at Google campuses in the California Bay Area have voted to be represented by UNITE HERE. The workers are technically employed by a subcontractor, Compass Group, through its subsidiary, Bon Appétit Management Co. Compass and UNITE HERE are negotiating the first contract for the unit.
NewsGuild Members at The New Republic Ratify Ambitious Contract: Newsroom workers at The New Republic unionized in 2018 in the wake of the #MeToo movement. Now those workers have secured their first contract, which contains ambitious diversity provisions, progressive policy to prevent sexual harassment, and industry-leading intellectual property and privacy rights. Unit Chair Alex Shephard said: “This contract solidifies an important goal behind why we organized: To protect and live the values that The New Republic has espoused in its pages for over 100 years. The strength of our union is reflected in this contract, and I’m proud to have stood alongside fellow Guild members in crafting an agreement that fosters an environment of collaboration, transparency, growth, and sustainability.”
St. Louis Metro Workers Secure New Contract: The negotiations took months, but the members of Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 788 won a new contract from St. Louis Metro Transit. Some 1,500 working people voted to approve the new contract, which includes higher starting pay, protections against rising insurance costs, and increased pay for night and weekend work. Overall, wages and benefits for the workers will see an increase of $26 million over three years. Reggie Howard, president of Local 788, said: “It was a long fight. But we feel really good about it.”
USW Members at Clearwater Paper Agree on New Contract: Workers at Clearwater Paper have been working without a contract since 2017. The members of United Steelworkers (USW) Local 712 approved an agreement that would cover more than 800 employees. Contract negotiations have been long and contentious with the membership almost unanimously rejecting what Clearwater previously said was its last and best offer. The new contract runs through 2025.
Food and Water Workers' Union Voluntarily Recognized: Nearly 80 workers at Food & Water Action (and its affiliated organization, Food & Water Watch) from around the country voted to be represented by the Nonprofit Professionals Employee Union (NPEU), IFTPE Local 70. Management will voluntarily recognize the new unit. The workers said: “As an organization, we advocate for union power in the WATER Act and a real Green New Deal because we recognize the critical importance of protecting union labor and not leaving workers behind in our fight for a better world. We believe that a union will allow us to truly live up to our values; will give us a tangible way to promote diversity, equity and inclusion in our workplace; and will show the rest of the world how truly invested we are in the right of workers to make a fair living on a livable planet.”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 04/03/2020 - 12:03Tags: Organizing
In Memoriam: Union Members Lost in COVID-19 Pandemic
As the COVID-19 pandemic spreads across the United States, our sisters, brothers and friends in the labor movement are among the first casualties. It is important for us to work together during this crisis to prevent further deaths. It is important to thank those who are doing the work to keep us safe and fed. It is important to remember those who we lost because of the coronavirus.
This list includes those deaths we have currently learned of. If you aware of additional union members we should include on this list, please send details to kquinnell@aflcio.org and we will add them to the list.
Mark Blum of New York, SAG-AFTRA: "Though he was perhaps best known for the 1985 film 'Desperately Seeking Susan,' in which he starred alongside Madonna and Rosanna Arquette, he most recently appeared in supporting TV roles on the HBO series 'Succession,' the Netflix drama 'You' and Amazon's 'Mozart in the Jungle.' He was a staple in the New York theater community, frequently appearing on Broadway, including the revival of 'Twelve Angry Men,' though he appeared off Broadway much more often." SAG-AFTRA President Gabrielle Carteris said: “This is a painful loss to our SAG-AFTRA family. Mark Blum understood that all performers working in this industry share the same employers and that our strength depends on our unity. He was a visionary. Mark will be deeply missed, and our hearts go out to his wife, Janet Zarish, his friends and all of his loved ones.”
Raul Clarke of New York, Transport Workers: TWU Local 100 President Tony Utano said: “I offer my deepest condolences to all of our Local 100 members at Big Bus here in New York and across the country. I can only hope and pray that this dark cloud over our country passes quickly.”
Oliver Cyrus of Brooklyn, New York, Transport Workers: "We have lost a second union brother to the coronavirus. [Manhattan and Bronx Surface Transit Operating Authority] Bus Operator Oliver Cyrus out of the Manhattanville Depot passed away today. Local 100 Vice President Richard Davis, who has known Brother Cyrus for most of his 21 years on the job, said he was 'a quiet, humble man. He was well liked by all his co-workers. The workers at Manhattanville are all very upset. There's a somber mood at the depot.'"
Scott Elijah of New York, Transport Workers: In addition to his work for New York City Transit, Elijah was pastor of the Bethany AME Church in Yonkers. President Utano said "I wish I had the words to say to bring comfort to Brother Elijah’s family, his friends and co-workers in Track. But I don’t. I can only wish that the support our union will bring to his family now and into the future will bring them strength in their moment of grief."
Paul Frishkorn of Philadelphia, Association of Flight Attendants-CWA: "Earlier this week, we lost a respected, longtime member of the American Airlines family, who tested positive for COVID-19. Our hearts go out to Paul’s loved ones, many of whom work for American."
Ernesto Hernandez of New York, Transport Workers: Transit Authority Surface Vice President J.P. Patafio called Hernandez "a kind man who was loved and respected by his co-workers and [he was a] hard worker. His death is a shock to us all."
Araceli Buendia Ilagan of Miami, Florida, nurses union, SEIU: Roy Buendia said: “My dearest sister, we admired you for your dedication on your profession….You’re a true ‘hero’ in this fight against COVID-19.”
Patrick Patoir of Coney Island, New York, Transport Workers: TWU Local 100 Vice President Shirley Martin, who worked with Patoir for 29 years: "Patrick was one of the most beautiful souls I have ever known. He was always the first to help. If you wanted something done, ask Patrick. Everyone at Pitkin is in mourning. Many of his co-workers where in tears when they found out." Patrick’s brother, Wendell, is a Machinist at the Coney Island Wheel and Axle Shop. Patrick leaves behind his grieving wife and four children.
Peter Petrassi of Long Island City, New York, Transport Workers: Interim New York City Transit President Sarah Feinberg said: "Our hearts are absolutely broken. Peter was a vital member of our team, and a valued friend. We are honored to have worked with him, and our thoughts are with his family and loved ones."
Dez-Ann Romain of Brooklyn, New York, School Administrators: Allison Farrington, principal of Research and Service High School in Brooklyn, said: “She loved her kids, she loved her community, she loved service. You could see it in how she and her students would look at each other. I can’t imagine what they are dealing with now.”
Scott Ryan of Everett, Washington, Amalgamated Transit Union: ATU International President John Costa said: “The tragic reality of this devastating and deadly pandemic has now taken the life of one of our own. I hope the entire continent will join us in a moment of silence tonight at 7:10 p.m. ET to remember Local 1576 shop steward Scott Ryan, who was just 41 years old. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family of Brother Ryan and his sisters and brothers of Local 1576 in Lynnwood, Washington.”
Caridad Santiago of New York, Transport Workers: IB ImageStations Division Vice President Lynwood Whichard said Santiago's passing is a "terrible loss to the Local 100 family. She was a wonderful mother, loved by everyone. We are all praying for her family to get through this time of grief."
Warren Tucker of New York, Transport Workers: IB ImageStations MTA Bus Vice President Peter Rosconi said that Tucker's passing was "tough to take. All of MTA is in mourning." Division Vice Chair Mike Capocci said, "He was such a sweetheart. This is such a shame."
An autoworker (name withheld) from Wayne, Michigan, UAW: UAW President Rory Gamble said: "I’m very sad to report that we had one more UAW member fall to the virus yesterday, from Ford Michigan Assembly in Wayne, Michigan. I want to extend our sincere sympathies to family and friends."
An autoworker (name withheld) from Sterling Heights, Michigan, UAW: President Gamble said: "Today, I am so sorry to report that one of our members at FCA Transport in Sterling Heights, Michigan, has died from the virus. I, along with Vice President Cindy Estrada and the entire International Executive Board extend our heartfelt sympathies and prayers to our dear brother’s family and friends."
Two autoworkers (names withheld) from Dearborn, Michigan, UAW: Gamble said: "We have been notified today that two more members of our UAW family have fallen to the virus. One member worked at Ford Motor Company's Dearborn Stamping [plant] and a skilled trades brother who worked at the Ford Data Center in Dearborn, Michigan. Our prayers and support go out to their families and communities."
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 04/02/2020 - 10:37Tags: COVID-19
