Hispanic Heritage Month Profiles: Antonio Betancourt
Throughout Hispanic Heritage Month, the AFL-CIO will be profiling leaders and activists to spotlight the diverse contributions Hispanics and Latinos have made to the labor movement. Today's profile features Antonio Betancourt of the Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE).
Antonio Betancourt is dedicated to moving the film industry in Puerto Rico forward. He is currently coordinating specialized workshops to improve the knowledge of IATSE crew members and has developed film workshops for underserved communities. Betancourt is also one of the founding members of IATSE Local 494. “Being part of IATSE has helped me develop into a crew member who can be proud of his legacy,” he said. He is a member of the Cinema Audio Society and was the sound mixer for “What Happened to Santiago” (“Lo que le Pasó a Santiago”), which was nominated for an Oscar.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 09/23/2024 - 09:53Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Castlevania Studio Animation Workers Ratify First Union Contract
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Animation workers at Powerhouse Animation Studios in Texas overwhelmingly voted to ratify their first union contract, with 96% of members voting to approve the agreement. Details of the contract were not immediately available. The more than 100 workers produce games like Castlevania and include both production workers and artists at the studio, folding in roles such as animator, background designer and production assistant.
“This is one of the strongest agreements we have been able to negotiate, and the crew’s resolve to their priority issues is the reason,” said Steve Kaplan, business representative of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 839. “I also want to acknowledge the work Powerhouse and its leadership team put in. We all had to be flexible to get to the finish line, and they showed their commitment to being a productive partner with the Union in the negotiations.”
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 09/23/2024 - 09:50Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Temple Faculty, Administration Reach Tentative Agreement
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
The Temple Association of University Professionals (TAUP)—an affiliate of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT)—has secured a tentative agreement (TA) on a five-year contract with the administration of Temple University.
This deal follows more than a year of negotiations and is subject to approval by both membership and Temple’s board of trustees. The TA features a $10,000 across-the-board raise for full-time employees upon ratification—amounting to a 10% raise for at least half the bargaining unit, which includes more than 2,300 faculty, librarians and other academic professionals. Over the life of the contract, a tenured professor on average will receive an 18% increase, while those who are nontenured will get about 23%. Other wins include expanded bereavement leave, improved parental leave, more protections for academic freedom, no increased health care costs and more.
“This is the most complex and transformative agreement for our union since our 1990 strike, and contained in this agreement are historic wins on pay equity, job security, and numerous working conditions, benefits, and union power,” the union said in a statement posted to social media.
Hispanic Heritage Month Profiles: Alicia Castro Chicol
Throughout Hispanic Heritage Month, the AFL-CIO will be profiling leaders and activists to spotlight the diverse contributions Hispanics and Latinos have made to the labor movement. Today's profile features Alicia Castro Chicol of the Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE).
Since becoming a member of IATSE Local 480 in 2011, Alicia Castro Chicol has actively served as a volunteer and board member of Chainbreaker Collective, a membership-based economic and environmental justice organization that helps expand access to affordable transportation and sustainable communities for working people in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and surrounding areas. Having strong roots in both El Salvador and Guatemala, Chicol helps with community organizing through different grassroots and political entities within these countries.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 09/20/2024 - 09:53Hispanic Heritage Month Profiles
Throughout Hispanic Heritage Month, the AFL-CIO will be profiling leaders and activists to spotlight the diverse contributions Hispanics and Latinos have made to the labor movement.
Here's who we've featured so far:
- Omayra Sánchez, Office and Professional Employees (OPEIU)
- Amanda Filpo, International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (SMART)
- Roy Zuniga, National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC)
- Elizabeth Mercado, Communications Workers of America (CWA)
Hispanic Heritage Month Profiles: Elizabeth Mercado
Throughout Hispanic Heritage Month, the AFL-CIO will be profiling leaders and activists to spotlight the diverse contributions Hispanics and Latinos have made to the labor movement. Today's profile features Elizabeth Mercado of the Communications Workers of America (CWA).
Elizabeth Mercado has been a CWA union activist and leader for more than 23 years. She has held many positions in both her union and her community—from serving on her local school board as the first Puerto Rican woman (and, eventually, president), to chairing the CWA National Women’s Committee from 2021 to 2023, working as a Labor Council for Latin American Advancement Trabajadoras Fellow and beyond, Mercado continuously demonstrates her commitment to the community, workers’ rights and human rights.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 09/19/2024 - 10:23Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Volkswagen Workers in Chattanooga Rally to Win Strong First Contract
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
After a historic union election victory earlier this year, UAW members who work for Volkswagen in Chattanooga, Tennessee, are gearing up to begin negotiating a powerful first contract with the automotive giant later this week.
More than 400 newly minted UAW members, their family members and community supporters rallied on Sunday to channel momentum from the vote to securing a contract that raises workplace standards, increases wages, improves benefits and codifies protections similar to those secured by autoworkers in other unionized plants. Other demands from Volkswagen workers include corporate accountability, workplace respect, retirement security and better paid time off. With representation across every department and shift at the facility, the 20-person elected bargaining committee has been meeting for weeks already to analyze survey data about members’ goals for the first agreement.
“Our victory in April was just the beginning,” said Samuel Gallardo, an assembly line worker at Volkswagen. “Now we are focused on winning a contract that reflects the hard work and dedication of every worker here. We’ve shown that when we stand together, we win—first our union, and soon a contract that guarantees higher wages, better benefits, and a brighter future for all.”
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 09/19/2024 - 10:03Hispanic Heritage Month Profiles: Roy Zuniga
Throughout Hispanic Heritage Month, the AFL-CIO will be profiling leaders and activists to spotlight the diverse contributions Hispanics and Latinos have made to the labor movement. Today's profile features Roy Zuniga of the National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC).
In addition to delivering mail to the customers on his route, Roy Zuniga goes the extra mile to serve his fellow letter carriers as a shop steward, on-the-job instructor and NALC activist. Reflecting on why being involved in his union is important to him, Zuniga shared the following: “What I enjoy most is passing on to the new members what was passed on to me and more. When you see new brothers and sisters at a meeting or they call you because they have a question, it makes it all worth it.”
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 09/18/2024 - 10:02Service & Solidarity Spotlight: CWA Wins Tentative Agreement at AT&T Southeast
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
The Communications Workers of America (CWA) announced on Sunday that the union has reached a tentative agreement (TA) with AT&T Southeast, ending the longest telecommunications strike in the region.
The new contract covers technicians, customer service representatives, and other workers who install, maintain, and support residential and commercial services in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee. Wages and health care costs were key issues for members. The deal includes across-the-board wage increases of 19.33%, with additional 3% increases for wire technicians and utility operations, and provisions that hold health care premiums steady in the first year and then lowers them in the second and third years.
“I believe in the power of unity, and the unity our members and retirees have shown during these contract negotiations has been outstanding and gave our bargaining teams the backing they needed to deliver strong contracts,” said CWA President Claude Cummings Jr. “CWA members and retirees from every region and sector of our union mobilized in support of our bargaining teams, including by distributing flyers with information about the strike at AT&T Wireless stores.”
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 09/18/2024 - 10:02Don't Forget to Register to Vote: In the States Roundup
It's time once again to take a look at the ways working people are making progress in the states. Click on any of the links to follow the state federations on X (formerly Twitter).
Alaska AFL-CIO:
If Project 2025 is implemented, roughly 15 million workers could be forced to pay taxes on their healthcare benefits. This is another prime example of how Project 2025 only aims to hurt working families. #LaborMonth2024 #1u pic.twitter.com/zr7AZISCFy
— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) September 18, 2024
California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:
So… what are you doing Saturday? pic.twitter.com/nmwl3sbjDL
— California Federation of Labor Unions (@CaliforniaLabor) September 16, 2024
Connecticut AFL-CIO:
New Haven is a UNION TOWN! Working people are rallying with striking hotel workers at the Omni as they fight for fair wages, job security & respect for all hotel workers. #1u #strike @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/TGtzhyAekX
— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) September 14, 2024
Florida AFL-CIO:
— Florida AFL-CIO (@FLAFLCIO) September 18, 2024
Georgia State AFL-CIO:
🎉 Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month and the power of unity! 🎉
Labor unions have always been a pillar of strength for workers. Let’s honor our Hispanic brothers and sisters who have fought for workers’ rights. ✊🏽#1u #SpanishExcellenance pic.twitter.com/9mwfAHLjyK
— Georgia AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOGeorgia) September 15, 2024
Illinois AFL-CIO:
#WaybackWednesday to 1973 when a group of trade unionists found @LCLAA, the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement. Today the organization is the leading advocacy group for Latino/a working rights in the country. #1u pic.twitter.com/wzrZ3SnEMS
— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) September 18, 2024
Maine AFL-CIO:
We're super excited to begin reading @GrimKim's book "Fight Like Hell: The Untold History of American Labor" for our next Labor Group Selection. All are welcome to join us!https://t.co/gKnJJmLzqe
— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) September 17, 2024
Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
Join the MA Labor Movement this Saturday as we head north to knock doors with the @NHAFLCIO in support of endorsed labor champions! pic.twitter.com/cgoM5xUBCP
— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) September 17, 2024
Michigan State AFL-CIO:
7 weeks until Election Day.
Make sure you’re registered to vote. pic.twitter.com/E96G8Hk3pk
— Michigan AFL-CIO ✊ (@MIAFLCIO) September 17, 2024
Minnesota AFL-CIO:
A collective union action pushing for better ventilation at work, for example, has a much higher impact than a single disabled worker asking for this accommodation. https://t.co/W0YoVyHNF4 #BetterInAUnion
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) September 17, 2024
Missouri AFL-CIO:
David Gregory is out of touch with St. Louis voters. He hasn't won in his election but he is moving forward with a plan to build a literal CASTLE in Jefferson City. Let's not send him to the #moleg! Follow @perelesforMO and get involved in his campaign!https://t.co/rBqZ0WXsqT
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) September 16, 2024
Nevada State AFL-CIO:
“We were trained by the Reid machine.” - @LVSusanNV 💪🏼😎https://t.co/dPIaqWwZ3k
— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) September 18, 2024
New York State AFL-CIO:
It's a beautiful day to REGISTER TO VOTE! Here's everything you need to know about voter registration in New York State: https://t.co/Rjq24pbBJZ #NationalVoterRegistrationDay pic.twitter.com/FLuGRyOfqS
— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) September 17, 2024
North Carolina State AFL-CIO:
"NC should be the #1 state for both workers and businesses. These two ideas are not mutually exclusive. In fact, they are interconnected." @votebraxton #ncpol #1u
Read more at: https://t.co/pAJwADk1Ce
— NC State AFL-CIO // #CountMeIn (@NCStateAFLCIO) September 9, 2024
Ohio AFL-CIO:
On the one-year anniversary of the historic Big Three strike, @UAW President Shawn Fain was at a @UAPipeTrades Local 50 hall near #Toledo leading a @SherrodBrown chant! pic.twitter.com/G7WnhMzdOB
— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) September 15, 2024
Oregon AFL-CIO:
Join #OregonLabor and @MachinistsUnion President @IAMBrianBryant
on Thursday 9/19 at 11AM for a solidarity rally in support of Striking Boeing Workers.
For details go to: https://t.co/qVIO73URup pic.twitter.com/RSkBAaQzMy
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) September 18, 2024
Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:
Don’t be counted out on Election Day. Make sure your voice is heard - get registered to vote! #LaborVotes https://t.co/e9vlnW6ApL pic.twitter.com/8bgJCbisbR
— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) September 17, 2024
Texas AFL-CIO:
🚨A Trump-appointed judge right here in Texas just sided with a company claiming the NLRB is unconstitutional.
We can't afford four years of judges, like this one, who will enable corporations to exploit workers.
We need Kamala Harris & Tim Walz in the White House.
— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) September 17, 2024
Virginia AFL-CIO:
Today is National Voter Registration Day! 🚨🗳️ As workers, our collective voice shapes our future. Make sure you’re registered to vote and have a say in policies that impact us all. Visit https://t.co/t5LQe0pkAT to register or check your status today!#UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/UbtXVKdScl
— Virginia AFL-CIO (@Virginia_AFLCIO) September 17, 2024
Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:
As Machinists continue to strike Boeing, labor and community support is essential. Here’s how you can stand with the workers.
This page will be continuously updated until the workers' demands are met.https://t.co/725C1m1GE9 pic.twitter.com/vAUnY4t2k8
— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) September 16, 2024
Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
Ben Wikler chair of the Democratic Party of Wisconsin addresses delegates: "Trump's Project 2025 is Scott Walker's 2011" playbook super-charged. #upup24
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) September 17, 2024
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 09/18/2024 - 03:14Happy National Voter Registration Day
The right to vote is the cornerstone of our democracy. It’s the beating heart of our country’s civil rights—and our labor movement.
That’s why we’re celebrating National Voter Registration Day—the single largest voter registration day in the country. We’re reaching out to make sure you, your family, co-workers, neighbors and friends are ready to exercise our democratic rights.
The voter registration deadline is approaching in many states over the next few weeks. Some states have deadlines during the first week of October.
So we have two important questions for you.
1. Will you take a moment to review the voter registration deadlines in your state?
Find information about your state’s voting laws and deadlines through our partner Ballot Ready.
2. Will you make sure your voter registration is correct and up to date? Or, register to vote for the first time. We have all the tools you need on our website:
It’s important to check your voter status early, so you don’t miss any registration deadlines and are ready when Election Day rolls around.
Thank you for getting ready to vote in November! Our vote is our voice, and we’ll need every voice during this election to make sure we protect our contract, our jobs, and our freedoms.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 09/17/2024 - 12:54Hispanic Heritage Month Profiles: Amanda Filpo
Throughout Hispanic Heritage Month, the AFL-CIO will be profiling leaders and activists to spotlight the diverse contributions Hispanics and Latinos have made to the labor movement. Today's profile features Amanda Filpo of the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (SMART).
Amanda Filpo is an active SMART Local 28 member in New York City. She is a leader in her union and serves on SMART’s BE4ALL committee.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 09/17/2024 - 10:03Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Mercury Ballroom Stagehands in Louisville Vote to Form Union
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
On Thursday, stagehands at the Louisville, Kentucky-based Mercury Ballroom voted unanimously to join Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 17.
The unit will include around a dozen staff at the Mercury Ballroom, which is one of the city’s premier venues for live music, performances and other events. Local 17 already represents its counterparts at other major stages throughout the city. This resounding victory marks the third crew at a Live Nation venue to organize in recent months, following successful votes by workers at Denver’s Summit music hall and Marquis Theater earlier this summer.
“This win demonstrates IATSE Local 17’s commitment to representing locations of all sizes,” said Local 17 Business Agent Greg Campbell. “The workers who support these types of clubs are the foundation of the live event music industry. From amphitheaters and clubs to opera houses and Broadway, all entertainment workers deserve the voice and protections that a union brings.”
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 09/17/2024 - 10:02Hispanic Heritage Month Profiles: Omayra Sánchez
Throughout Hispanic Heritage Month, the AFL-CIO will be profiling leaders and activists to spotlight the diverse contributions Hispanics and Latinos have made to the labor movement. Today's profile features Omayra Sánchez of the Office and Professional Employees (OPEIU).
Omayra Sánchez became chief shop steward among food service employees at Eglin Air Force Base shortly after the workers won their first union contract with ITPEU/OPEIU Local 4873 last year.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 09/16/2024 - 10:18Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Oshawa Power Workers Ratify New Union Contract
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Members of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 636 who work at Oshawa Power in Ontario, Canada, ratified a new three-year collective bargaining agreement. The old contract was set to expire in February 2025. The new contract goes into effect Nov. 1 and runs through Nov. 1, 2027. It provides the workers with increases in wages, benefits, premiums and allowances.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 09/16/2024 - 10:02Help Make Air Travel Safe: 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.
Boeing Workers Vote Overwhelmingly to Strike, in Defeat for Troubled Company: “Boeing workers picketed outside the company’s plants in Washington state early Friday morning after voting overwhelmingly to strike. Tens of thousands of machinists voted Thursday to reject a proposed deal between the company and the union that would have significantly boosted pay and benefits even as it fell short of other union demands. Some 96% of members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers District 751 voted in favor of the strike—far more than the two-thirds needed to launch the work stoppage.”
Harris Pushes for Labor Reforms, Union Support: “In an election year, Labor Day kicks off the official campaign season, and Vice President Kamala Harris kicked hers off with a bang. She had rallies in Detroit, Milwaukee and Pittsburgh, all major cities in battleground states. Joined by local elected officials in each place, vice presidential nominee Tim Walz in Milwaukee, and President Biden in Pittsburgh. In Pittsburgh, flanked by AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler, teachers' union leaders Becky Pringle (National Education Association) and Randi Weingarten (American Federation of Teachers), Harris gave a rousing speech that reminded us that we have organized labor to thank for the eight-hour workday, pensions, paid vacations and health care, worker benefits that have now become standard.”
Trump and Harris, with Divided Labor Records, Grapple for Pennsylvania’s Union Voters: “The AFL-CIO, the largest umbrella organization for U.S. unions, gave Harris a lifetime score of 98% on her Senate voting record. Walz got a 93% rating for his votes from the AFL-CIO when he served in the House of Representatives. He belonged to the National Education Association, the nation’s largest labor union, while working as a high school teacher.”
TSA Officers Help Make Air Travel Safe. Workers Deserve Protections from Congress: “As the vice president for the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) Local 777, which represents Transportation Security Officers at airports across Wisconsin and Illinois, I work on behalf of the hundreds of transportation security officers who ensure that our passengers fly safely in and out of airports in those states. We take pride in on our work, and with over six million passengers flying in and out of Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport in 2023 alone, there's a lot of work to take pride in.”
AFL-CIO, Entertainment Unions Unveil Federal Priorities for Nonprofit Artists and Journalists: “The Department for Professional Employees, a trade department of AFL-CIO, the largest labor federation in the U.S., has put forward a slate of new federal policies it hopes can create more sustainable careers in the nonprofit arts and media sectors. The policies, which speak to concerns from nonprofit workers across 12 unions, including Actors’ Equity, SAG-AFTRA, IATSE and more, call for stronger labor protections as part of federal funding received through the National Endowment for the Arts, the National Endowment for the Humanities and the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, gaining seats on federal grantmaking councils for working professionals and updating federal grants in these areas, so that the funds are not limited to just one production or project.”
White House Calls for Stronger Labor Standards Across Federal Agencies: “President Joe Biden signed an executive order Sept. 6 calling on federal agencies to adopt a series of ‘high-road labor standards,’ according to an announcement from the White House, continuing the administration’s push toward expanding the federal workforce while pushing certain standards. The announcement calls the move the ‘first in history to specify a clear list of labor standards that all Federal agencies should look to prioritize.’”
Tim Walz Is a Dream Pick for the Labor Movement: “Walz has a strong Labor record to match. In a July 29 letter urging Harris to choose Walz, 26 Minnesota Labor leaders noted that Walz enacted paid family and medical leave for all families, provided unemployment insurance to hourly school workers, expanded the collective bargaining rights of Minnesotans, provided free school meals to every Minnesota student, appointed a Labor lawyer to lead the state Department of Labor and Industry, signed a tough law against wage theft by corporations and developers, and made it illegal for employers to force working people to attend anti-union meetings. The centerpiece of Walz’s Labor policy is… a law he signed in May 2023 that the news website Minnesota Reformer described as potentially ‘the most significant worker protection bill in state history.’”
Approval of Labor Unions Nears Record High: Gallup: “Seven in 10 Americans say they approve of labor unions, just shy of the record-high approval rating for organized labor, according to a new Gallup poll. The survey, released Monday, found 70% of Americans approve of labor unions, while 23% disapprove and 7% have no opinion. This is 1 point shy of the 71% reading in 2022, which marked the highest approval rating since 1965.”
A Campaign Kickoff, an Ode to Labor: “In an election year, Labor Day kicks off the official campaign season, and Vice President Kamala Harris kicked hers off with a bang. She had rallies in Detroit, Milwaukee, and Pittsburgh, all major cities in battleground states. She was joined by local elected officials in each place, Vice Presidential nominee Tim Walz in Milwaukee, and President Biden in Pittsburgh. In Pittsburgh, flanked by AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler, teachers’ union leaders Becky Pringle (National Education Association) and Randi Weingarten (American Federation of Teachers), Harris gave a rousing speech that reminded us we have organized labor to thank for the 8-hour workday, pensions, paid vacations and health care, worker benefits that have now become standard. Those benefits didn’t come without a fight, nor did the establishment of Labor Day.”
Walkout for Washington: “On Tuesday, Sept. 10, at 12 p.m. PT, AFSCME Council 28/WFSE-represented public service workers at state agencies, community colleges and four-year universities will Walkout for Washington to demand livable wages, safe staffing levels, and respect for the Washingtonians that depend on their services. Public workers organized in other unions are also joining these walkouts in a show of solidarity.”
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 09/12/2024 - 11:05Service & Solidarity Action: 9/11 Responder and Survivor Health Funding
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
In the wake of the attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, tens of thousands of emergency workers, construction workers and others rushed to the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and the crash site in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, to assist in rescue and recovery operations.
Those near ground zero were exposed to a toxic mix of dust and fumes from the collapse of the twin towers and the fires that lingered. Twenty-three years later, many of these individuals are suffering from serious cancers, respiratory diseases and other serious health problems.
We made a promise to provide medical care and take care of those who became ill because of that tragic day in American history. Unions led the fight to create the World Trade Center (WTC) Health Program, and now we need to act again.
The WTC Health Program is once again facing a budget shortfall that will start to impact care and lead to budget cuts in 2028. The shortfall would occur just as we expect more people to need the program’s care due to an increasing number of 9/11 cancers.
Survivors of 9/11 live in every single state and in 434 of 435 U.S. congressional districts. Every member of Congress should support legislation to fully fund this program.
We hold in our hearts the memory of the flight crews of the four hijacked jetliners; the heroic firefighters, police officers, and other first responders who put themselves in harm’s way; and everyone we lost on that terrible day. We also remember the construction workers who worked tirelessly to move the wreckage and reclaim bodies, and the health care workers who saved so many lives. Their sacrifice and solidarity will never be forgotten.
We cannot leave behind anyone still suffering today.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 09/12/2024 - 10:50Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Eos Workers Vote to Join USW
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Some 160 workers at Eos Energy Enterprises in Pittsburgh voted to join the United Steelworkers (USW) last week to ensure they have a voice in shaping the future of their role in the rapidly expanding clean energy sector.
Workers at the zinc battery company manufacture batteries used to store electricity generated from renewable sources like solar and wind energy. The vote comes right as Eos is eligible for billions of dollars in clean energy federal investments from legislation like the Inflation Reduction Act. UAW members fought back against attempts to undermine their right to a free and fair union election, demanding that corporations receiving taxpayer money should respect the rights of their workforce. Their victory represents a powerful milestone in ensuring this emergent sector has high standards for labor rights.
“We’re proud to be contributing to our nation’s energy future, but for that future to succeed, we need to earn fair wages and be treated with respect on the job,” said Dante Williams, an assembly operator at Eos. “Unionizing puts our future into our own hands, and now we’re looking forward to sitting down and bargaining a fair contract.”
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 09/11/2024 - 12:25Labor Votes Debate Bingo
This election is crucial for working people. It’s about protecting our future: strong unions, better wages, affordable health care and a secure retirement. It’s about whether we’re going to build things in America and create millions of good union jobs doing it. It’s about standing up for our fundamental freedoms, including the freedom to join a union.
That’s Vice President Kamala Harris’ vision, and it’s why the labor movement is leading the way to mobilize millions of voters across the country to elect Kamala Harris and Tim Walz.
We’ll be following the #ABCDebate tonight at 9 p.m. ET and reacting in real time. And at our own union watch parties and in homes across the country, we’ll also be playing Labor Votes Bingo as a fun way to track what both candidates are saying.
Try your luck by downloading a Labor Votes Bingo card.
Want to play Labor Votes Bingo with friends? Download our five-pack of bingo cards here.
Follow the AFL-CIO and President Liz Shuler on X/Twitter for live updates, and share your debate and bingo photos with us! The AFL-CIO will be posting reactions on Threads, Instagram and Facebook.
And visit our BetterInAUnion.org website for all the facts on Vice President Harris and former President Trump’s records of working for working people, what the Trump Project 2025 Agenda would mean for working families and unions, and ways that you can take action between now and Election Day.
Thanks for tuning in this evening ahead of this critical election for working people!
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 09/10/2024 - 16:02Never Forget: 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:
Rest in Peace, James Earl Jones.
Through countless iconic roles on stage and on screen, he was an inspiration to so many over his 60-year career. In addition to his EGOT, Jones was awarded Equity's Paul Robeson Award in 2011.
He will be missed.https://t.co/xyKgf0v61o
— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) September 9, 2024
AFGE:
Our union’s very existence depends on the outcome of the November election.
Find out more about our Election 2024 volunteer opportunities ⬇https://t.co/DIZXFZ9oaI
— AFGE (@AFGENational) September 6, 2024
AFSCME:
Brittney Kilfeather, a social worker and member of AFSCME Local 2663 (Council 4) in Connecticut, won our union’s Never Quit Service Award for her extraordinary dedication to her clients. https://t.co/qnQtP1GxU9
— AFSCME (@AFSCME) September 9, 2024
Alliance for Retired Americans:
Remember as we head into tomorrow's debate: Republican plans may have different names but they all have the same goal -- to privatize Medicare and/or cut Social Security. https://t.co/2zrNwyOPcj
— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) September 9, 2024
Amalgamated Transit Union:
John Costa, the International President of the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU), which boasts a membership of 200,000, emphatically stated, “Vice President Harris is without question the best candidate to beat Donald Trump… We must protect our job security, healthcare,…
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) September 10, 2024
American Federation of Teachers:
If you're an AFT member and concerned about the impact of gun violence on higher education, join us Sept 30 for a discussion with the @WhiteHouse and @usedgov. https://t.co/O6CiI5fzYs
— AFT (@AFTunion) September 10, 2024
American Postal Workers Union:
APWU Members - today we are flooding the lines of Congress to bring justice to our retirees! Call the APWU Legislative Hotline and tell your House representatives to sign the discharge petition, H.Res. 1410, to bring the Social Security Fairness Act directly to a vote. This bill… pic.twitter.com/8HGcp9XLwf
— The American Postal Workers Union - APWU (@APWUnational) September 9, 2024
Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:
The AFA Honor Guard held our annual Remembrance ceremony at the 9/11 Pentagon Memorial to honor Flight 77. We were joined by our @APFAunity and @unionveterans siblings. We will #NeverForget. pic.twitter.com/1HA1nq4cZQ
— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) September 10, 2024
Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers:
ORGANIZING ALERT: On August 27th, 22 maintenance unit workers employed at Hearthside Food Solutions in Michigan City, Ind. filed for an election to be represented by the BCTGM. https://t.co/t5qeOQghBY
— BCTGM International (@BCTGM) September 4, 2024
Boilermakers:
Tomorrow, many will remember where we were and what we were doing 23 years ago. Local 5 #Boilermaker Frank Kotnik remembers. Read about Brother Kotnik's work as a Blacksmith in New York City, and what he saw on that fateful September day. https://t.co/Qht2jNbGxt pic.twitter.com/nEdBvWqzPk
— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) September 10, 2024
Bricklayers:
We agree with the next President @KamalaHarris - When unions are strong, America is strong! ✊
Like and Share if you agree!#UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/cBof7TvIFG
— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) September 10, 2024
Communications Workers of America:
https://t.co/MiacvfG1dQ pic.twitter.com/ud4CbX9Jpn
— CWA (@CWAUnion) September 10, 2024
Department for Professional Employees:
Today, with our 12 AEMI affiliates we've launched the Reimagining Federal Support for the Arts and Public Media policy agenda, which advocates for policies to ensure professionals can have sustainable careers in the nonprofit arts & public media sector. https://t.co/VybNpJv7Hk
— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) September 10, 2024
Electrical Workers:
It's true and working people are seeing the results. https://t.co/lamELK5IzB https://t.co/7z2gazYimR
— IBEW (@IBEW) September 9, 2024
Heat and Frost Insulators:
Gear up for U.S. Election Day! 🇺🇸
🗳️ Register to Vote
✅ Check Registration
🏠 Update Address
✍️ Update Name
➡️ Check your registration today: https://t.co/YyeZccjAsR #InsulatorsUnion #Insulators #InsulatorPride #voterregistration #electionday pic.twitter.com/HoQ4xTz4nX
— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) September 10, 2024
International Labor Communications Association:
Our final workshop of the day is all about building union websites to engage, inform, and empower our members, presented by our friends from @CanLabourMedia! pic.twitter.com/5dITQJwpui
— International Labor Communications Association (@ILCAonline) September 6, 2024
Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:
September 17 is #NationalVoterRegistrationDay! Help celebrate democracy by getting every eligible American registered & #VoteReady for 2024! #Empower24 https://t.co/YgZKZMpEyP pic.twitter.com/BhbIdAxOQ1
— LCLAA (@LCLAA) September 10, 2024
Labor Heritage Foundation:
📚 LISTEN NOW! “Shift Happens: The History of Labor in the United States” 👧🧒https://t.co/W1Caz5Yx4X @JAlbertMann @FoundationWals #LaborRadioPod #History #WorkingClass #ClassStruggle @GeorgetownKILWP #LaborHistory @AFLCIO @StrikeHistory #LaborHistory @wrkclasshistory pic.twitter.com/2pQSg9CkLb
— Labor Heritage (@LaborHeritage1) September 8, 2024
Laborers:
Twenty-three years after the September 11 attacks, we mourn and honor those lost in that cowardly assault on our nation. We will #NeverForget pic.twitter.com/dlgy1GIg4u
— LIUNA (@LIUNA) September 11, 2024
Machinists:
IAM National Legislative & Political Director Hasan Solomon represented the IAM at today’s National Black Labor Leaders Breakfast hosted by @CBTU72 and @CBCInstitute. The breakfast addressed important discussions on Black wealth, Labor rights, and skills training to empower… pic.twitter.com/8ksAw6pSo3
— Machinists Union (@MachinistsUnion) September 11, 2024
Metal Trades Department:
Harris campaign website now outlines policy platform, including support for the PRO Act. The page lists Harris’s economic, immigration and foreign policy agendas, contrasting each section with the far-right Project 2025 policy proposal. https://t.co/RNOIhHeMWb
— Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) September 10, 2024
Mine Workers:
Matewan is one of the best labor movies in history and James Earl Jones is a reason why. https://t.co/9AR2YjpZ92
— United Mine Workers (@MineWorkers) September 10, 2024
Musical Artists:
San Francisco Symphony Chorus Director Emeritus Vance Y. George sent a message to Symphony CEO and SFS Board Officers, expressing his concern about the drastic proposed Chorus budget cuts: https://t.co/kebVYjoOyc pic.twitter.com/PQTEOGCppf
— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) September 10, 2024
National Air Traffic Controllers Association:
Today marks 23 years since the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. We remember those who lost their lives and commend the aviation safety professionals that were on duty that day for their bravery and hard work. https://t.co/WuJ6CtIEHb pic.twitter.com/kDs1FCuf7q
— NATCA (@NATCA) September 11, 2024
National Association of Letter Carriers:
NALC honors and remembers the victims of the terror attacks that took place on Sept. 11, 2001. In recognition of their heroism, we salute the first responders and individuals who bravely jumped into action to help others that day and throughout the recovery efforts that followed. pic.twitter.com/VHPWf6t23G
— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) September 11, 2024
National Domestic Workers Alliance:
.@aijenpoo: We want to make childcare more affordable and accessible and ensure that families don't have to pay more than 7% of their income on childcare. Right now, in every state, people are paying more for childcare than housing. https://t.co/oBFFdkKVqO
— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) September 9, 2024
National Nurses United:
Minnesota nurses are fired up at tonight’s @mnnurses #NursesForKamala debate watch party! 🔥 #Debate2024 pic.twitter.com/B2BzRQADUt
— NationalNursesUnited (@NationalNurses) September 11, 2024
NFL Players Association:
It matters where you play.
Despite 92% of surveyed players calling for high-quality grass, over half the league continues to use artificial fields.
Players: check the playing surface at every NFL stadium so you know what you’re facing when you go to work each week. pic.twitter.com/EUSKDB5jWC
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) September 7, 2024
North America's Building Trades Unions:
September is Suicide Prevention Month. For resources visit: https://t.co/b7Bfvv5hwu pic.twitter.com/yIDPFtr6o2
— The Building Trades (@NABTU) September 9, 2024
Office and Professional Employees:
We are proud to launch the AEMI Reimagining Federal Support for the Arts and Public Media policy agenda with our siblings @DPEaflcio & advocate for policies to ensure professionals can have sustainable careers in the nonprofit arts and public media sector. https://t.co/GjD1aoqmpd
— OPEIU | #UnionStrong (@OPEIU) September 10, 2024
Painters and Allied Trades:
Unions like ours are central to our communities and how they live!
We’d like to spotlight DC50 members who volunteered their time to paint the exterior and interior of the Lahaina Aquatic Center located in Maui, Hawaii, after it was destroyed during the 2023 wildfires. pic.twitter.com/xwN2NkafKJ
— IUPAT (@GoIUPAT) September 11, 2024
Plasterers and Cement Masons:
Our democracy depends on ordinary people who make sure every election runs smoothly & everyone's vote is counted. You can make sure we have safe, fair, efficient elections for all voters. Step up & become a poll worker for the next election today!https://t.co/RqaE1geilg
— OPCMIA International (@opcmiaintl) September 8, 2024
Pride At Work:
What does it mean to you to have Inclusive contract language? #union #solidarity #collectivebargaining pic.twitter.com/1L83VIbMAE
— Pride at Work (@PrideatWork) September 10, 2024
Professional Aviation Safety Specialists:
On 9/11/01 terrorists used 4 planes as weapons—deliberately crashing World Trade Center, Pentagon, a field in Penn. A dark day for America but aviation's finest hour. PASS-represented workers at @FAANews helped guide over 4,500 planes to safe landings. #NeverForget #September11 pic.twitter.com/ex3VDvfEVy
— PASS (@PASSNational) September 11, 2024
Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:
On the anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, we honor and remember all the lives lost – including our brave first responders, many of whom were part of our NYC union family. We will #NeverForget! pic.twitter.com/7S6ZlJUqCw
— RWDSU (@RWDSU) September 11, 2024
Roofers and Waterproofers:
How do we elect people who care about workers and our families? By showing up on Election Day.
Register to vote here. It takes less than two minutes on average. If you want to check your registration status, you can do so here. https://t.co/HXCUXIqCDc
— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) September 10, 2024
SAG-AFTRA:
Both Houses in the CA Legislature adopted bill #AB2602, ensuring proper representation and informed consent prior to licensing a performer’s digital voice & likeness. This fight goes hand-in-hand with our #VideoGameStrike 🎮🤝 Share and tag Governor @GavinNewsom to sign AB 2602! pic.twitter.com/0xu6u5aNwz
— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) September 11, 2024
Solidarity Center:
Union activism can be felt far beyond the workplace. Unions & their members help shape local & national policies that make communities stronger & create more democratic societies.#WorkerRights #Solidarity #LaborMovement #1u pic.twitter.com/qYHgkLmvN1
— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) September 9, 2024
The NewsGuild-CWA:
🚨 We’re on strike at @law360union! 🚨 @Law360 laid off 10% of our Guild-represented staff and violated U.S. labor law — right after LexisNexis boasted record revenue. We’re holding power to account and on the picket line today!✊
Sign the pledge: https://t.co/qDzhhj7vWN pic.twitter.com/GE0iYt4pDK
— NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) September 10, 2024
Theatrical Stage Employees:
Today, we remember our kin who worked tirelessly to keep Ground Zero bright. https://t.co/kbcM2OLXBl pic.twitter.com/ROj5pL4PtH
— IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) September 11, 2024
Transport Workers Union:
The TWU Honors 9/11 Heroes pic.twitter.com/FIWshknN9N
— TWU (@transportworker) September 11, 2024
Transportation Trades Department:
Congratulations to @IAFFPresident Ed Kelly and Secretary-Treasurer Frank Líma on getting reelected last week at the 57th @IAFFofficial Convention. Firefighters and IAFF members protect the public every single day, and together we'll fight to protect their rights as workers. https://t.co/GVRUXjMesk
— TTD | America's Transportation Unions (@TTDAFLCIO) September 9, 2024
UAW:
Why are prices sky high? Because corporations are jacking up prices. And why do they do it? Corporate greed.
If we're going to fix the cost-of-living crisis, we're going to have to take on Wall Street and corporate America head on.@KamalaHarris is up to the task. pic.twitter.com/iK6ozu3cJr
— UAW (@UAW) September 9, 2024
Union Veterans Council:
With over 1 million union veterans in our ranks, we will ensure our voices are heard.
This isn’t about politics—it's about standing against anyone who believes they're above our nation's core values.
As our oath states, we will “support and defend the Constitution.” https://t.co/CKVdaA2gzK
— Union Veterans Council🪖✊ (@unionveterans) August 30, 2024
UNITE HERE:
“Workers aren’t making enough to support their families. Many can no longer afford to live in the cities that they welcome guests to, and painful workloads are breaking their bodies." - @GwenMillsUH https://t.co/d5RiWXyYD5
— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) September 10, 2024
United Food and Commercial Workers:
Michigan Planned Parenthood said “Union YES!”
Medical assistants at the Planned Parenthood health center in Livonia, Michigan, recently became the first Planned Parenthood unit to be represented by UFCW Local 876.
Congratulations!
➡️ https://t.co/OwDhtKw59d pic.twitter.com/rUWYrrCkbB
— UFCW (@UFCW) September 6, 2024
United Steelworkers:
Today, we honor the bravery, resilience, and unity that define us as a nation. On this Patriot’s Day, we pay tribute to the lives forever changed by September 11, 2001. pic.twitter.com/cezaYRjHSR
— United Steelworkers #EverybodysUnion (@steelworkers) September 11, 2024
Utility Workers:
Twenty-three years ago today, heroes including many utility workers rushed towards danger at ground zero. Please contact Congress to make sure that survivors and first responders receive the healthcare that they deserve. https://t.co/wlAHiLl90H pic.twitter.com/FavR71B0zH
— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) September 11, 2024
Working America:
Healthcare is way too expensive – that’s what millions of working people like LaRonda are dealing with in neighborhoods across the country. It’s time to make health care cheaper for everyone, regardless of income.
#HealthCare #WorkingAmerica pic.twitter.com/tyA6N9JjUM
— Working America (@WorkingAmerica) September 9, 2024
Writers Guild of America East:
Writing is writing, whether it’s for animation or live-action. We’re fighting for a @PBS contract that gives animation writers the union coverage they deserve and for AI protections, paid parental leave and higher streaming residuals for ALL PBS writers. #PBSWritersUnited #1u pic.twitter.com/8viYaySryi
— Writers Guild of America East (@WGAEast) September 9, 2024
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 09/10/2024 - 12:32
