Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Central Vermont Medical Center Support Staff Votes to Join 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.
Support staff at Central Vermont Medical Center (CVMC) overwhelmingly voted last week to join the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) Vermont.
This unit will cover licensed nursing assistants, mental health technicians, phlebotomists, front desk staff and food service workers across CVMC’s locations—including the hospital, 27 community-based medical practices and a nursing facility. The resounding election victory comes just over a year after CVMC nurses and technical staff also joined the state chapter of AFT. Core issues for these invaluable workers are largely based around lack of employment protections other hospital personnel have, the need for safer patient-to-staff ratios, and demands for higher wages and better benefits.
“We are passionate about our jobs, and we value being in service to our central Vermont community, so we are hoping to work collaboratively with the CVMC administration to come to mutually beneficial agreements that will impact our community positively,” said Spencer Starr, a patient service specialist and organizing committee member.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 09/10/2024 - 10:36It's Better In A Union: 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:
Week 2 of #LaborMonth2024 will be all about the #UnionDifference. Union members make more than their non-union counterparts and are more likely to have fringe benefits like healthcare.
Simply put, #LifeIsBetterInAUnion! pic.twitter.com/Q19twRnteE
— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) September 8, 2024
California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:
Support striking @unitehere hotel workers! https://t.co/oPh4lygtqh
— California Federation of Labor Unions (@CaliforniaLabor) September 4, 2024
Colorado AFL-CIO:
Tonight we talk to Sophie Mariam, a labor policy analyst for the Colorado Fiscal Institute, about a study called The Rise of the Union Curious. https://t.co/M8v456DrPs
Labor Exchange tonight KGNU 6:00 PM 88.5 FM / 1390 AM Denver and online on the podcast. https://t.co/xu9gEqEhK3
— Colorado AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOCO) August 5, 2024
Connecticut AFL-CIO:
More union members are out hitting doors for pro-worker candidates in Meriden! #1u #LaborVotes pic.twitter.com/XKeLu5j987
— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) September 7, 2024
Florida AFL-CIO:
Floridians increasingly can't afford Florida. This has to change. https://t.co/wcqH9G0IgC
— Florida AFL-CIO (@FLAFLCIO) September 9, 2024
Georgia State AFL-CIO:
We stand with you ❤️💪🏽#1u #unionstrong #unionproud #solidarity https://t.co/p0PNlH1QIA
— Georgia AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOGeorgia) September 4, 2024
Illinois AFL-CIO:
We believe everyone should have access to a good paying job and the ability to retire with dignity. In fact, we believe that your ability to succeed in a job should depend on your craft and quality of work, not your gender.
Learn more here: https://t.co/AVUklnHkWs#1u pic.twitter.com/2j2qyZ9xWo
— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) September 7, 2024
Indiana State AFL-CIO:
#ItsBetterinaUnion pic.twitter.com/fYenQZNxqE
— Indiana AFL-CIO (@INAFLCIO) September 4, 2024
Iowa Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO:
You're damn right they do! 💪
Order your shirt today: https://t.co/jbvyJIiTbo pic.twitter.com/odm25YisPF
— Iowa AFL-CIO ✊ (@IowaAFLCIO) August 29, 2024
Maine AFL-CIO:
Anti-labor Federalist Society goon Leonard Leo, who helped tilt the Supreme Court against workers, is now bankrolling efforts to kill offshore wind & the thousands of local union jobs it will support in Maine.https://t.co/QRWnjdiZWm
— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) September 6, 2024
Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
Excited to kick off our annual SkillsBuild Pre-Apprenticeship Program today @IUOELocal4! pic.twitter.com/nQOB8N8orQ
— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) September 9, 2024
Minnesota AFL-CIO:
Great day on the doors across Minnesota! When we elect Labor-endorsed candidates, working people win in St. Paul and Washington, DC! #BetterInAUnion #1u #Labor2024 #mnleg pic.twitter.com/ycCIEXLPYQ
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) September 7, 2024
Missouri AFL-CIO:
#Unions work best when we oppose #RightToWork and support policies that support #Workers. #1u #Solidarity pic.twitter.com/nmI7FLomX0
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) September 8, 2024
Nevada State AFL-CIO:
This morning we had a giant shredding truck in front of our offices & union workers demonstrated how Donald Trump’s Project 2025 would destroy workers’ rights and other freedoms affecting all Nevadans.
We’re not going back! pic.twitter.com/gnmTDqdZqJ
— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) September 7, 2024
New York State AFL-CIO:
The Retail Worker Safety Act has been signed into law! Congratulations to @sappelbaum and @RWDSU; and a big thanks to @NYSenatorRamos and @KarinesReyes87 for sponsoring the bill, to @GovKathyHochul for signing it, and to the Senate and Assembly majorities for their support. pic.twitter.com/pVfFi6nPtR
— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) September 6, 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:
#ItsBetterInAUnion https://t.co/x8P0CyIot6
— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) September 7, 2024
Oregon AFL-CIO:
Join #OregonLabor to kick off election season at a canvass in Portland for State Rep. and union member @Rep_HoaNguyen and @DanRayfield, our next Attorney General!
Coffee, lunch and training provided.
Sign up and get more info at https://t.co/B1B90w7Rqn pic.twitter.com/BC8sOS3paX
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) September 9, 2024
Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:
We need to talk to our fellow union members, our neighbors, our friends, and make sure they understand what’s at stake.
Let’s get to work with @AlleghenyLabor and across the Commonwealth! #Labor2024 https://t.co/pfXwfq2Fiy
— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) September 7, 2024
Texas AFL-CIO:
Strong take by @AustinChronicle as @afa_cwa seeks to improve working conditions at United Airlines by authorizing strike. Three years and still no contract?!? #FairContractNow #1u https://t.co/0C4JcUZHqP
— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) September 6, 2024
Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
Tim Walz Champions Unions in Milwaukee Labor Day Appearance https://t.co/pHPD7ypVsS
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) September 3, 2024
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 09/09/2024 - 10:42Service & Solidarity Spotlight: IAM and Boeing Reach Tentative Labor Deal, Potentially Averting Strike
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Members of the Machinists (IAM) at Boeing reached a tentative contract agreement that averts a strike that would've begun Thursday if no deal was agreed to. The contract covers approximately 33,000 workers and includes 25% raises over four years and improvements to health care costs and retirement benefits, and a commitment from Boeing to build its next airplane in the Pacific Northwest. The workers will vote on the deal on Sept. 12.
“Financially, the company finds itself in a tough position due to many self-inflicted missteps. It is IAM members who will bring this company back on track,” the union said. “When a plane leaves the factory, it’s our reputation on the line. This proposal helps keep our legacy alive.”
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 09/09/2024 - 10:06The Year of the Union Member: 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.
Kamala Harris and Labor Unions Need Each Other: “Union members should not allow themselves to be deceived by Trump again. But their leaders acknowledge that even with his track record, Trump’s allure for some is strong. ‘He’s been very effective at messaging working-class people,’ AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler told Politico recently, particularly on unfair trade policies and offshored jobs.”
How Tim Walz Showed He Has Workers’ Backs: “Many of Cliff Tobey’s friends and neighbors struggled over the years to get their children to doctor’s appointments or pick them up when schools closed early during Minnesota’s brutal winters. Lacking paid sick and family time, the United Steelworkers (USW) activist recalled, they used vacation days to cover family emergencies even if that meant working themselves to the bone the rest of the year without a real break. That all changed in 2024 because of Governor Tim Walz. He signed a paid family leave act and other legislation that’s not only making Minnesota the ‘best state for workers’—as his administration declares—but showing working people across the country the kind of ally he’d be if elected vice president in November.”
Infrastructure Law Creates Union Jobs : “As a union member for 37 years, I know the difference a good-paying, pro-worker job can make. I am proud to be a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) and, for the last 12 years, business manager of Local Union 388 in Stevens Point, Wisconsin. This year has been extraordinary for our union. We are just over halfway through the year and we have seen a great number of union job commitments across the state. Gov. Tony Evers coined this year ‘the year of the worker.’ I would add it is also the year of the union worker.”
Acting U.S. Labor Secretary Encourages Boeing and Workers to Reach 'Fair Contract': “Acting U.S. Labor Secretary Julie Su on Wednesday encouraged Boeing and more than 30,000 of the planemaker’s factory workers to bridge a divide in negotiations and reach a fair contract, as a vote on a new deal looms on Sept. 12. Boeing’s Seattle-area workers, who produce the planemaker’s strongest-selling 737 commercial jet, are voting next week on their first new contract in 16 years, with the two sides still tackling demands such as job security.”
UAW Members at Cornell Approve New Contract, Ending Strike: “UAW members at Cornell University have voted to approve a new contract with the university, officially ending the strike that disrupted campus operations at the start of the fall semester. The vote, conducted on September 1 and 2, saw 77% of union members favor ratifying the deal, which was reached on August 28 after weeks of negotiations. ‘The tentative agreement has been ratified, and the strike is officially over,’ said Lonnie Everett, UAW International Servicing Representative for Region 9, in the statement announcing the voting results. ‘Your unwavering solidarity and unity have led us to this historic moment.’”
Lawmakers Unveil Federal Warehouse Workers Protection Bill: “Alarmed at the safety threats warehouse workers face nationally, especially if they work for Amazon and Walmart, a bipartisan group of four representatives unveiled federal legislation to mandate bosses disclose production quotas and banning production methods that endanger warehouse worker health and safety. ‘Businesses can keep workers safe and earn a profit, but that’s only possible with more transparency and more accountability to bring warehouse safety standards up to date,’ explained Rep. Donald Norcross (D-N.J.), a union electrical worker and co-chair of the Congressional Labor Caucus. ‘The increasingly dangerous working conditions at warehouses across the country that result from these quota systems are wholly unacceptable,’ added Norcross, former president of the South Jersey Building and Construction Trades Council and the measure’s lead sponsor.”
Unions Are Taking More Prominent Roles in U.S. Politics as Support for Labor Rises: “Democrats need labor to turn out. Liz Shuler is the president of the AFL-CIO, the nation's largest labor organization. She says, in key battleground states, union members make up 20% of the vote. Plus, it's also significant that public support for unions is the highest it's been since the 1960s. LIZ SHULER: We've had historic highs. The last several years, young people under the age of 30 are the most pro-union, so what does that speak to? It speaks to the fact that the economy has been broken for young people for way too long.”
AFL-CIO President: Union Members Are Powerful. We Will Decide This Election: “The AFL-CIO represents nearly 13 million workers in our federation across 60 unions. This time every year, we come together to put the labor back in Labor Day. As much as we love the barbecues, the mattress sales—this is our week. This is about recognizing and appreciating the workers who make this country run. Last year, we started a conversation about how workers are doing in this country. Some of these numbers may surprise you: 70% of Americans support unions, among young people under the age of 30, it’s nine in 10. Union workers are continuing to find their power in two very distinct ways.”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 09/06/2024 - 10:17Service & Solidarity Spotlight: UAW Members at Cornell Approve New Contract, Ending Strike
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Members of the UAW at Cornell University voted to approve a new contract with the university, officially ending a 15-day strike. More than 75% of the members voted yes. The $43 million contract covers four years and provides raises of 21%-25.4%. The contract also eliminates the tiered wage system that had been a major sticking point in negotiations, provides lump sum transition payments, and cost-of-living adjustment protections.
“I’m disappointed by Cornell’s commitment to not paying its workers a living wage, but I’m incredibly proud of my union and so grateful to the community that had our backs,” said UAW member Stephanie Heslop.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 09/05/2024 - 10:02Standing Strong and United: 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:
Actors' Equity President Brooke Shields spoke with the Washington Post about her new role, using her platform to "ask for more for the members," and the importance of arts funding. https://t.co/mtuwPmHTlE
— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) September 2, 2024
AFGE:
The math isn't mathing.
The Voice of America agency is cutting the jobs of bargaining unit employees while promoting managers to SES positions.https://t.co/oYlBAqtDhE
— AFGE (@AFGENational) September 5, 2024
AFSCME:
The Biden-Harris administration has announced even more public service workers will finally see their student loans forgiven under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. https://t.co/cuEXKsJB3R
— AFSCME (@AFSCME) September 4, 2024
Alliance for Retired Americans:
The race gets even closer when you look at the senior vote in these 6 key swing states: https://t.co/Qhw16PSE3p https://t.co/k6UFHuyA39
— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) September 4, 2024
Amalgamated Transit Union:
Our Local 1208-Jackson, MS, members are standing strong and united on their picket lines. We will not back down until MV treats our members and riders with respect. #ATUStrongerTogether #1u #UnionStrong @AflMississippi pic.twitter.com/qKxKGA0HAH
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) September 5, 2024
American Federation of Musicians:
This Labor Day, let's honor those who have paved the way for fair wages, safe working conditions, equity, and the protection of artistic rights. Let's also remember the important role unions have played in improving our quality of life and safeguarding our livelihoods.
Whether… pic.twitter.com/3GXbxfFaJc
— AFM (@The_AFM) September 2, 2024
American Federation of Teachers:
From early adopters to skeptics, the consensus was clear: a strong educator-labor voice is crucial in AI’s future, and the AFT-Microsoft collaboration might just be the key. Read more about the “AI in Education and Beyond” conference held in Chicago. https://t.co/9CLVit5Ul1
— AFT (@AFTunion) September 5, 2024
American Postal Workers Union:
Human Relations Director Daleo Freeman shares takeaways from the 27th Biennial National Convention, and more of what’s to come from the Human Relations Department.https://t.co/4xNAystzXW
— The American Postal Workers Union - APWU (@APWUnational) September 3, 2024
Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:
Every day we work with the responsibility of serving as aviation’s last line of defense. And every year we remember why. Nothing unites us more than honoring our heroes. No matter the uniform we wear or the years we have worn our wings, we will remember the events of Sept. 11th. pic.twitter.com/QaWrNifMCN
— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) September 4, 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:
👀 Some great #Boilermakers UNION news: Tentative agreement reached with Norfolk Southern, including wage increases, vacation and insurance. Read more ➡️ https://t.co/i4JdrWpE6y #UnionStrong
— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) September 3, 2024
Bricklayers:
"Workers are growing our power in this country in a way we haven't been in a generation.
70% of Americans support unions and we are seen as a force to be reckoned with."
Read @AFLCIO president @LizShuler's full Op-Ed here: https://t.co/tWi3GIX87z
— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) September 5, 2024
Communications Workers of America:
17,000 CWA members in the Southeast are still on strike at AT&T.
Donate to their strike fund here: https://t.co/NYle21JBmz pic.twitter.com/nem8lPTfJ2
— CWA (@CWAUnion) September 4, 2024
Department for Professional Employees:
Interested in learning more about forming a union in your workplace? Contact us at organize@dpeaflcio.org! https://t.co/E3XFgiKrki
— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) September 5, 2024
Electrical Workers:
The Biden-Harris Administration's historic investment in clean energy for rural America means good jobs for communities across the nation. https://t.co/yqZbKQbfhM
— IBEW (@IBEW) September 5, 2024
Heat and Frost Insulators:
Gameday Insulation!🏈
Kick off the football season by checking out Local 5’s touchdown caliber work to get SoFi Stadium Super Bowl ready!
➡️ Read more: https://t.co/p831beiEoL #InsulatorsUnion #Insulators #InsulatorPride #football #nflseason pic.twitter.com/lmsU1Ux4Rl
— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) September 4, 2024
International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers:
“Thank A Worker” - A Labor Day Letter from IFPTE’s Executive Officershttps://t.co/HbTXVWXsvd
— IFPTE (@IFPTE) August 30, 2024
International Labor Communications Association:
WORKSHOP ANNOUNCEMENT: the comms team behind last year’s massive @sagaftra strike will present on Strike Preparedness and how the union achieved such successful messaging throughout the strike!
Join us at the ILCA-CALM Mini Conference in NYC, Sept 5-7: https://t.co/mfkdKjwIam pic.twitter.com/DyRnEbeP7d
— International Labor Communications Association (@ILCAonline) September 3, 2024
Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:
Georgia! Poll worker applications close soon. Don't wait—apply now to help ensure every vote counts! @PowerThePolls #Vote #Georgia #Empower24 pic.twitter.com/Od8cVleOr0
— LCLAA (@LCLAA) September 5, 2024
Labor Heritage Foundation:
Save the date! 🗓️ The 2025 Great Labor Arts Exchange is set for June 20-22 in Silver Spring, MD. Join activists & artists in celebrating labor arts like music, film, poetry, & more! Sign up to stay updated: https://t.co/6QksPdWasP pic.twitter.com/kwmXFcJ6Qc
— Labor Heritage (@LaborHeritage1) September 5, 2024
Laborers:
A lot has changed in Construction over the last 121 years, but the one thing that hasn’t is the strength and grit of #Laborers. Here's to another 121+ years of #LIUNA strength and #solidarity ✊ 💪 pic.twitter.com/JW8Px9faCp
— LIUNA (@LIUNA) September 5, 2024
Machinists:
Since the early 1900s, IAM members in North America have enjoyed lucrative contracts and built planes and spacecraft. Our union has helped send men to the moon and produced aircraft that fly millions of people around the globe annually. #IAM2024 pic.twitter.com/8q5tp405gF
— Machinists Union (@MachinistsUnion) September 5, 2024
Maritime Trades Department:
The MTD wishes everyone on and off the waterfront a happy and restful Labor Day! Remember that workers fought and died for the freedoms we enjoy.
— Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO (@Maritime_Trades) September 2, 2024
Mine Workers:
“Betty Jean Hall was a remarkable woman who dedicated her life to advocating for coal miners and championing the rights and opportunities for women in our industry. Her legacy is one of strength..." - Cecil Robertshttps://t.co/97mBMS41A0
— United Mine Workers (@MineWorkers) August 20, 2024
Musical Artists:
AGMA Endorses Kamala Harris and Tim Walz for President and Vice President in 2024 Election: https://t.co/aTWjgHqKeb pic.twitter.com/Fh3evXrO79
— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) September 5, 2024
National Association of Letter Carriers:
During the NALC 73rd Biennial Convention, delegates had the chance to see the final design of the Next Generation Delivery Vehicle. Watch this video to learn about the development & features of the vehicle. More info about the NGDV & its predecessors here: https://t.co/KSneSUIUfS pic.twitter.com/WKdePC3td4
— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) September 4, 2024
National Day Laborer Organizing Network:
“The minimum Mexico can do for the migrant community is to recognize their work and offer them the Bienestar pension; the reality is that many don't even have enough to eat.”
Angela Sambrano from #NDLON on what to do. https://t.co/EH18BUC8zn
— NDLON (@NDLON) September 4, 2024
National Domestic Workers Alliance:
The YWomenVote 2024 Gen Z National Town Hall is more than just an event; it's a movement toward ensuring young voices are heard loud and clear.
Join in with @YWCAUSA virtually or in-person: https://t.co/u3Dhr8w1L7
— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) September 5, 2024
National Federation of Federal Employees:
Labor Day Message, Letter on New WFF Occ. Series, Continued Organizing Success, and more - https://t.co/O9mxiWJKKx pic.twitter.com/jYGUAVvCGY
— NFFE (@NFFE_Union) August 30, 2024
National Nurses United:
Union nurses are always ready to do what it takes for our patients!
Asheville nurses overwhelmingly authorize a strike at @HCAhealthcare Mission Hospital. ✊https://t.co/pcPWsnBAzF
— NationalNursesUnited (@NationalNurses) September 4, 2024
NFL Players Association:
From zero contract negotiations & no player movement to now, players have and continue to fight for more: “It means that you care, not just for you, but you care for the actual game itself.” #LaborDay #1u #leadership pic.twitter.com/OLXBI7mu9p
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) September 2, 2024
North America's Building Trades Unions:
Joining the trades is easy through a Registered Apprenticeship Program.
Full @ENRnews episode: https://t.co/u2duN1Vt6B pic.twitter.com/BNVB2Cir2r
— The Building Trades (@NABTU) September 5, 2024
Office and Professional Employees:
Happy Labor Day from your union! Here’s to building upon the union power we’ve built together ✊ #UnionStrong #LaborDay pic.twitter.com/6nJarD1Cfm
— OPEIU | #UnionStrong (@OPEIU) September 2, 2024
Painters and Allied Trades:
Our union would like to spotlight the work of @IUPAT53 Local 1144 members Codey Bettinger, Collin Derenberger, Gerad Lockhart, Skylar Bland, Delmer Offenger, Timothy Cline, along-lastingan currently working at Blennerhassett Middle School in Parkersburg, WV.
Our members… pic.twitter.com/ZvMhFhg1wY
— IUPAT (@GoIUPAT) September 5, 2024
Plasterers and Cement Masons:
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.https://t.co/W7VrgLhMf8 pic.twitter.com/6rFLc7zXiu
— OPCMIA International (@opcmiaintl) September 3, 2024
Pride At Work:
#ItsBetterInAUnion. Don’t believe us?
Try ➡️
✅18% higher wages
✅Better health care
✅Safer workplaces
✅Job security
🎉 Happy Labor Day! 🎉 pic.twitter.com/av1iHzC1ht
— Pride at Work (@PrideatWork) September 2, 2024
Professional Aviation Safety Specialists:
PASS natl officer vote results: Exec Board members reelected to current positions @PASSprezdc Spero to begin 2nd term; @PASScfodc Aguirre to begin 3rd term. Proud to represent workers @FAANews & @MCASCPPA #unionsolidarity #publicservice #AviationSafetyhttps://t.co/Vk2jrOcZyP
— PASS (@PASSNational) September 4, 2024
Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:
CONTRACT VICTORY: congrats to @RWDSU members at Ferncliff Cemetery in Springfield, OH, who ratified their union contract in August! The new agreement includes increases to PTO, bereavement, and pension contribution, and up to a 35% wage increase through the life of the contract! pic.twitter.com/AnWK1GnjMm
— RWDSU (@RWDSU) September 5, 2024
Roofers and Waterproofers:
Labeling hole covers can prevent roofers from falling through skylights and holes. Learn more at: https://t.co/V8iwYJQU4H #roofersafety365 pic.twitter.com/BJTyj4YIub
— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) September 5, 2024
SAG-AFTRA:
“Lightspeed LA has always recognized and valued the irreplaceable role of talent, which injects creativity, innovation, and the human touch into video games.” - @Steve_C_Martin
Thank you for caring about actors as much as we do @LightspeedLAstu! https://t.co/uHs8QEBA9X
— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) September 4, 2024
Solidarity Center:
We’re still buzzing with excitement from the news out of Liberia this past weekend where thousands of workers at Firestone's rubber plantation voted UNION YES. Click the link to learn more about their journey to the election.https://t.co/7oGhJVXpln #Solidarity #1u
— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) September 5, 2024
The NewsGuild-CWA:
This Labor Day 2024, we're ready to strike!
NewsGuild President Jon Schleuss (@gaufre) celebrates a year of wins:
👥 1,400 workers unionized
✍️ 90+ first contracts secured
✊ 39 workplaces strike
We're stronger than ever and committed to a better future! pic.twitter.com/P9EnMiSDoq
— NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) September 2, 2024
Theatrical Stage Employees:
Here's a reminder to join Locals 892 and 871 at the Local 892 office (3919 Magnolia Blvd. Burbank, CA 91505) on Sunday, 9/8 from 9am-3pm for the IATSE Blood Drive!
To Schedule your life saving appointment, go to https://t.co/kUFhOinyot and use the sponsor code "IATSE871". pic.twitter.com/R3bXNMBpB4
— IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) September 4, 2024
Transport Workers Union:
The TWU is empowering workers in Florida so they can fight for better wages and economic security, and not just accept the crumbs that corporations like @GoBrightline are willing to drop to them. @TwuSamuelsen https://t.co/EKYBdEWgT8
— TWU (@transportworker) September 2, 2024
Transportation Trades Department:
VICTORY! 🚨 The American Train Dispatchers Association successfully organized the train dispatchers at Genesee & Wyoming in St Albans, VT.
The dispatchers control rail traffic in 43 states & 13,000 miles of track for the largest U.S. short-line railroad. https://t.co/DSoLaliiNb
— TTD | America's Transportation Unions (@TTDAFLCIO) September 5, 2024
UAW:
Battery workers are seizing their power! Today, 1,000 workers at Ultium Cells in Spring Hill, TN, voted to join the UAW. They are the second Ultium plant built in the US and the second to go union. The first was Lordstown, OH, in 2022. pic.twitter.com/dOlbED34if
— UAW (@UAW) September 4, 2024
UNITE HERE:
This Labor Day weekend, over 10,000 hotel workers in nine cities stood up to their bosses to fight for raises, fair workloads, and the reversal of COVID-era cuts.
Hotel workers are ready to do whatever it takes to win. pic.twitter.com/0w8BbOc526
— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) September 5, 2024
United Food and Commercial Workers:
Clerical workers at Toms River Fire Commissioners District #1 in Toms River, NJ, & @ufcwlocal152 members, have ratified a NEW contract!
The 3 year contract includes improved wages & benefits, as well as a provision that ends “at-will” employment.
➡️ https://t.co/IjMBcZ86eS pic.twitter.com/BVIslleBqg
— UFCW (@UFCW) September 3, 2024
United Steelworkers:
When the things that we value most are on the line, we get out and vote.
Are you ready for November? Check your voter registration status, make a plan to cast your ballot, and share info with your loved ones so they too can be prepared: https://t.co/IvMx95ftKk pic.twitter.com/acLWuQaZhz
— United Steelworkers #EverybodysUnion (@steelworkers) September 5, 2024
Utility Workers:
Retirees know #ItsBetterInAUnion!
"The day we became union with UWUA, my life improved immensely. For 20 years I worked for Eastern Utilities Associates, a small electric company in Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts.' 🧵 pic.twitter.com/SGrtfKYvjI
— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) September 5, 2024
Working America:
Happy Labor Day!
Today we celebrate every worker and the historic achievements of the labor movement. We honor our past, celebrate the present, and tomorrow, we’ll continue the fight for more.#LaborDay #ItsBetterInAUnion pic.twitter.com/oov6qL3vC7
— Working America (@WorkingAmerica) September 2, 2024
Writers Guild of America East:
Join us at the NYC Labor Day Parade this Saturday! Show your union pride by marching with the WGAE and thousands of local union members.
RSVP & details: https://t.co/zXy9MvzvsN pic.twitter.com/ulSvnPEGPw
— Writers Guild of America East (@WGAEast) September 5, 2024
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 09/05/2024 - 10:00Worker Wins: We Wanted a Fair Wage
Our latest roundup of worker wins includes numerous examples of working people organizing, bargaining and mobilizing for a better life.
Democratic Party of New Mexico Staff Form Union: The Democratic Party of New Mexico (DPNM) announced on Friday that workers at the state party joined the Machinists (IAM) Local Lodge 794, and have successfully bargained a contract that protects staff and improves working conditions. Workers began this process nearly two years ago, hoping to strengthen the DPNM and ensure more sustained future victories. The collective bargaining agreement contains multiple provisions aimed at improving staff quality of life, economic stability and well-being. Highlights include codification of workplace standards, prohibiting artificial intelligence from replacing human labor, improved leave, better health care coverage and more. “It is exciting to be here at the Party while we are making this historic effort that will have a positive, lasting impact for future staff,” said DPNM Finance Assistant Clayton Caté. “As DPNM staff, now we will know that management decisions will have accountability and a codified process to adhere to going forward.” “It is truly historic that the Democratic Party of New Mexico staff is finally unionized, and I am so proud to welcome them to the IAMAW family with a unique collective bargaining agreement that took into account many different aspects of their mission and political day-to-day work,” said Local Lodge 794 President Directing Business Representative Ashley Long. “DPNM employees have been working hard to get pro-Labor candidates elected for years, without having union representation themselves, so this was very well-deserved and long overdue for the staff.”
Thousands More Nevada State Employees Win Union Election: A group of nearly 3,000 state employees—including those working for the welfare agency and Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)—won union representation as AFSCME Local 4041 this week in an election overseen by the state’s Government Employee-Management Relations Board. Nevada state workers won collective bargaining rights back in 2019, and since securing their first contract, AFSCME members have seen more than 30% wage increases as well as other new benefits and improved grievance procedures. The new bargaining unit that will join negotiations in the fall includes engineering technicians from the Department of Transportation, DMV service technicians, family support specialists in the Division of Welfare and Support Services (DWSS), and library technicians throughout Nevada System of Higher Education institutions and more. This election victory almost doubles the size of Local 4041, increasing their power to deliver victories for these critical public sector workers. “We see the benefits of having a union contract and voice on the job; that’s why we’ve organized as AFSCME and voted to have union representation. I’m excited tech workers now get to join our fellow AFSCME members at the bargaining table this fall,” said Austin Krehbiel, a family support specialist at the DWSS.
UAW Members Secure Tentative Agreement with Cornell University: After more than a week on strike, International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America (UAW) Local 2300 members who are responsible for food service, building upkeep, grounds maintenance and other duties at Cornell University secured an historic tentative agreement (TA). The deal includes massive economic victories, such as record wage increases of up to 25.4%, a cost-of-living adjustment and elimination of the two-tier wage system. Additionally, the union secured significant improvements to policies regarding time off, uniforms, inclement weather and workplace safety. The TA makes major strides to raise the quality of life and working condition standards for critical workers who make the prestigious Ivy League university run. Over the past four years, Cornell’s endowment has ballooned by 39% to almost $10 billion, and tuition for students has increased 13%. In contrast, UAW members’ buying power has fallen by 5% in that same period. Workers will vote on whether to ratify the contract on Sunday and Monday. “The workers at Cornell used their power to push back on Cornell’s arrogance and win a great contract,” said UAW Region 9 Director Daniel Vicente. “They stood together and showed the university that they were willing to do what was needed to win what they deserve.”
SMART-TD Announces Tentative Deal for Conductors with Amtrak: Last week, the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers-Transportation Division (SMART-TD) announced a tentative agreement for a seven-year contract with Amtrak that covers conductors and assistant conductors. Details of the agreement will go out to membership for a ratification vote over the next few weeks. Key economic highlights of the contract include substantial wage increases that are retroactive to July 2022, greater new hire training per diem, more conductor certification pay and improved training pay. SMART-TD also secured major wins relating to worker health and work-life balance, such as more paid parental leave, designating Martin Luther King Jr. Day as a paid holiday, improvements to bereavement pay and expansion of overtime.
Guitar Center Workers in Six Locations Ratify New Contract: Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU-UFCW) members at six Guitar Center locations in Illinois, Massachusetts, Nevada and New York ratified a new three-year contract. The agreement includes multiple meaningful wins for staff, like an increased minimum wage rate for every position—which will continue to go up every year throughout the life of the contract—and an additional seniority wage adjustment for more tenured workers. Additionally, members are maintaining their union health care plan with the addition of a new short-term disability benefit. Other highlights are an updated attendance policy that increases the grace period for being late, provisions protecting the right to call additional labor-management meetings during the year, work schedule transparency, upward mobility opportunities, protections for the current commissions policy and more.
Memphis City Workers Celebrate Across-the-Board Pay Raises and Bonuses: AFSCME members who work for the city of Memphis, Tennessee, are celebrating much-needed wage hikes and bonuses they secured through their organizing efforts. These critical public sector workers secured $5,000 bonuses along with pay raises of at least 5%. Staff who keep Memphis’ hospitals, schools and roads functioning saw this increase hit their bank accounts starting last month. Those who keep Memphis clean by working for the city’s Solid Waste Department saw pay raises ranging from 6% to 34%. These well-deserved wage bumps and bonuses are thanks to AFSCME Local 1733 members, who had been hard at work negotiating with the Memphis City Council since April. “We came to the table with our proposals for the wage increases that we wanted, but the city kept turning it down,” said Tomorrow Bonds, a member of Local 1733’s negotiations team. “But we decided we weren’t going to take their counterproposals for less, and we wanted a fair wage.”
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 09/04/2024 - 15:13Labor Is the Hope of the World : 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:
On Labor Day, it's important to remember that a union is an organization OF workers FOR workers.
When people say the union supports "candidate x" or "position y," It really means that WORKERS support "candidate x" and "position y."
Workers are the union. #LaborMonth2024 #1u pic.twitter.com/ZD5y20dqQl
— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) September 3, 2024
Arizona AFL-CIO:
❗❗ TODAY Arizona union voters are gathering for a Labor Day roundtable with @NezForAZ @RepRubenGallego @RepGregStanton @RepCasten @fred231957 to discuss their commitments to good union jobs in the clean energy sector. pic.twitter.com/YTsgxYdbfk
— Arizona AFL-CIO (@ArizonaAFLCIO) September 2, 2024
California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:
Happy #LaborDay from our @CaliforniaLabor family! Here’s to celebrating all the fights the labor movement has waged to improve the lives of working people, and all the victories for California workers that lie ahead! ✊ #LaborDay2024 #UnionizeCalifornia pic.twitter.com/No978hQ3lK
— California Federation of Labor Unions (@CaliforniaLabor) September 2, 2024
Connecticut AFL-CIO:
This #LaborDay, it’s time to acknowledge a pivotal truth: only through increased unionization can we rebuild a robust middle class.
Read CT AFL-CIO President @EHawthorne3's op-ed in the @HartfordCourant: https://t.co/1XeMWOtzAr
— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) September 2, 2024
Florida AFL-CIO:
Labor Day is a day to celebrate ALL of us, in every sector of the economy. Teachers, support staff, firefighters, police officers, grad students, flight attendants, designers, journalists, mechanics, engineers, baristas and more! #ItsBetterInAUnion pic.twitter.com/0QdujNuPzg
— Florida AFL-CIO (@FLAFLCIO) September 2, 2024
Georgia State AFL-CIO:
All smiles @ the annual Labor BBQ
"Our #UnionJob is #Voting !!!"#LaborDay2024 #1u #unionstrong #solidarity #UnionsForAll #Georgia pic.twitter.com/rq8n6cF29I
— Georgia AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOGeorgia) September 2, 2024
Illinois AFL-CIO:
Without Labor Day, we rarely get the opportunity to reflect on our current workers' rights, and the price that many people paid to secure those rights for us today. That is, unless you're in a union.
Let's celebrate our hard fought rights and the work ahead this #Labor Day.#1u pic.twitter.com/DZwpNwXdlR
— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) September 2, 2024
Iowa Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO:
You're damn right they do! 💪
Order your shirt today: https://t.co/jbvyJIiTbo pic.twitter.com/odm25YisPF
— Iowa AFL-CIO ✊ (@IowaAFLCIO) August 29, 2024
Maine AFL-CIO:
You have a 0% labor voting record on our 2024 Scorecard. You voted for a union busting right-to-work for less bill, opposed strengthening collective bargaining rights, paid leave for working families, Buy American , farmworker min wage, limiting forced OT for paper workers.. https://t.co/5JiPfzAc6F
— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) September 2, 2024
Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
It’s Primary Day - Go vote!
Polls open 7a-8p.
Cambridge: Marjorie Decker for State Rep.
Mansfield: Kostas Loukos for State Rep.
Milton & Randolph: Tony King for State Rep.
Plymouth: Michelle Badger for Rep.
Berkshires: Leigh Davis for Rep. #mapolihttps://t.co/9T2S5hfZoq
— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) September 3, 2024
Michigan State AFL-CIO:
Happy Labor Day, Michigan ✊✊ pic.twitter.com/E9vi5s0p74
— Michigan AFL-CIO ✊ (@MIAFLCIO) September 2, 2024
Minnesota AFL-CIO:
The two-year-old Inflation Reduction Act is fulfilling its promise of accelerating the country’s transition to renewable energy while creating good-paying, union jobs along the way. #1u https://t.co/Ym21wOop4P
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) August 26, 2024
Missouri AFL-CIO:
September is Suicide Prevention Month—a time to raise awareness and support those who may be struggling. It's important to remember that help is always available and that reaching out can make a difference. Let’s work together to break the stigma. #SuicidePrevention pic.twitter.com/yTaQVs3krL
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) September 3, 2024
Montana State AFL-CIO:
This weekend we’re celebrating working families. Find Labor Day picnics across Montana this weekend. Free food, music, and solidarity! #mtnews #unionstronghttps://t.co/4meR8B5UN6
— Montana AFL-CIO (@MTaflcio) August 30, 2024
Nebraska State AFL-CIO:
The election is two months away. Vote for candidates that support working family issues like Tony Vargas. @TonyVargas #itsbetterinaunion #UnionProud pic.twitter.com/KnNP5lPYxS
— NE State AFL-CIO (@NEAFLCIO) September 3, 2024
Nevada State AFL-CIO:
Happy Labor Day! We’re glad to be celebrating with @northernnvlabor at their annual Laborfest in Reno, NV. #LifeisBetterinAUnion pic.twitter.com/dPHzI8cHcl
— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) September 2, 2024
New Hampshire AFL-CIO:
Happy #LaborDay, Brothers and Sisters! #1u #NHAFLCIOLDB #NHPolitics pic.twitter.com/ZeIdHUMF9n
— New Hampshire AFL-CIO (@NHAFLCIO) September 2, 2024
New York State AFL-CIO:
President Mario Cilento on #LaborDay in the @timesunion: Unions' advocacy for workers' rights includes impact of artificial intelligence on the workplace https://t.co/1ZAdE61p7N
— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) September 2, 2024
North Carolina State AFL-CIO:
North Carolina is the 52nd best state in the US to work in @OxfamAmerica 2024 scorecard. @NC_Governor The minimum wage is just 18.4% of what a family needs to get by. We can do better. Find out more: https://t.co/MlN5ijnZd6
— NC State AFL-CIO // #CountMeIn (@NCStateAFLCIO) September 3, 2024
North Dakota AFL-CIO:
"Together, in a union, undivided, life will be better."https://t.co/8OJJxdEvpa
— North Dakota AFL-CIO (@NDAFLCIO) September 2, 2024
Ohio AFL-CIO:
This are the folks whose lives will be worse of because Trump's #Project2025 anti-worker, anti-retiree agenda. Thanks for always having working people be the center of your policy making, @SherrodBrown. https://t.co/YMiLgR5Lts
— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) September 3, 2024
Oregon AFL-CIO:
#LaborDay weekend is a great time to join a picket line! Stand with workers and don’t shop at Portland-area Fred Meyer stores during the strike. pic.twitter.com/leYhPRe0c4
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) September 1, 2024
Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:
Are you talking to union voters yet?
Sign up for #Labor2024 to make sure we don’t send a scab to the White House in November! #UnionStrong https://t.co/Snku6fun0q pic.twitter.com/6yc0vcDIBv
— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) September 2, 2024
Texas AFL-CIO:
Labor is the hope of the world ✊🏼
Happy Labor Day from the Texas AFL-CIO! #BetterInAUnion pic.twitter.com/REuRT5cdwJ
— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) September 2, 2024
Virginia AFL-CIO:
Happy Labor Day! Labor Day is about celebrating the workers who make this country run. With 70% of Americans backing unions, our movement is unstoppable. Union members are 20% of voters in swing states. This election, we’re the force deciding the future. #BetterInAUnion pic.twitter.com/IEomKNs0xm
— Virginia AFL-CIO (@Virginia_AFLCIO) September 2, 2024
Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:
In a downtown Seattle hotel, the future of the aerospace industry is being decided. Machinists are fighting for a contract that retains skilled workers, saves jobs & commits to safety at Boeing.
As a Sept. 12 strike date looms, they're not backing down: https://t.co/kmpAVeov1v pic.twitter.com/IHTsKVKfR4
— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) August 30, 2024
Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
Union Yes! Celebrating Labor Day with union members and Coach Walz. pic.twitter.com/2FVCrySmva
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) September 2, 2024
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 09/03/2024 - 10:27Shuler: Union Workers are Powerful. We Will Decide This Election.
The AFL-CIO represents nearly 13 million workers in our federation across 60 unions. This time every year, we come together to put the labor back in Labor Day.
As much as we love the barbecues, the mattress sales—this is our week. This is about recognizing and appreciating the workers who make this country run.
Last year, we started a conversation about how workers are doing in this country. Some of these numbers may surprise you: 70% of Americans support unions, among young people under the age of 30, it’s nine in 10.
Union workers are continuing to find their power in two very distinct ways.
First: We are the ones who are going to decide this presidential election. In swing states like Michigan, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and Nevada that are going to come down to 1% or 2%, union voters are 20% of the electorate. That’s one in every five voters.
And second: Our workers are powerful because they have something that is so rare today—the trust of those around them. Union members are credible political messengers. They can connect with each other and with the people in their communities in a way no one else can.
Having the hard conversationsMany of us have felt like it’s hard to just have a conversation about politics with someone we disagree with. Or we’ve talked to someone who has figured out what team we play for, and then just tuned us out. Or—let’s admit it—maybe we’ve done it to someone else.
Yet in a room full of union members, that’s not how it plays out. When you ask a union member who their most trusted source in the world is on politics, it’s not their friends, family or loved ones. It’s their fellow union members.
It’s not hard to see why union workers trust each other.
We talk to each other in the break room every morning. We carpool home. We’re on the factory floor together, or in the teacher’s lounge, or outside on a construction site, braving the elements, while everyone else is asleep. We know each other, inside and out.
And when you combine that trust with this organizing machine we’ve built, this ability to connect with our members, our families, our neighbors and mobilize on a dime, you have a movement that can actually deliver voters—and win an election.
The power of unionsWorkers are growing our power in this country in a way we haven’t been in a generation. Almost a quarter of the delegates to the Democratic National Convention in Chicago were union delegates, more than we’ve had in a long, long time. We are seen as a force to be reckoned with.
And it’s about damn time.
When I travel the country and talk to working people—our members, but also people who aren’t yet in a union—they tell me they’re tired of the way things have been going. They're tired of going to the grocery store, and seeing it take more out of their paychecks than it ever has. They’re tired for people their peers in the sandwich generation, trying to care for their kids and their parents at the exact same time.
What I hear from the young generation of workers coming up is that they can’t believe there used to be a time when you could work one full-time job, and afford to make a down payment on a home.
That’s the daily reality for people all over this country.
Workers in this country have never been more productive. We have never created the kind of wealth for companies that we are creating right now. But it’s not benefitting our workers.
We need to fundamentally re-write the rules—by winning elections, by passing laws, by having the right to stand up for ourselves—if we’re going to balance the scales.
All over the country, people are realizing there’s a movement where you actually can fight back, where you actually can get some power and some control over your future.
It’s not about your race, your gender, age, orientation or, religion, it’s just about standing up for your freedom.
Strategy, organizing pay offIf you feel tired or alone right now, think about autoworkers in Chattanooga, right after they made history at Volkswagen, voting for representation by the United Auto Workers.
Or our Machinists in Seattle, who filled a baseball stadium to tell Boeing to give them a fair contract.
Or our sisters in the National Women’s Soccer League players association, who rewrote the sports rulebook and got rid of their draft, setting a new standard that gives them a voice in where they work, like every other worker in this country.
These wins are not accidents.
We’ve invested in our grassroots network all over the country, building local power and organizing capacity.
Nearly half a million workers went on strike in 2023, a year that saw more than 2,700 union election filings, the most we’ve ever seen. Some 900,000 workers in unions won double-digit pay increases last year alone.
That is power.
What’s the point of building all this power on the ground, if we don’t use it when it really matters? When absolutely everything is on the line?
In those swing states we talked about earlier—Michigan. Pennsylvania. Michigan. Wisconsin. Nevada—union support is driving up the margin of support for Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris.
We are the difference.
How we winOur movement is full of joy and love, a way to have some fun and make your life better at the same time. We have the trust—with our union members, and the spouses, children and parents that we bring along. There’s a reason they call it “a union household,” which doubles and triples our impact.
We have a well-oiled organizing machine in every state, especially in battleground states. We have workers who are actually trained in how to have those tough conversations, how to steer them toward kitchen-table issues, and how to challenge someone, respectfully, if we need to.
A few months ago I walked up to a guy in a MAGA hat on a picket line. In any other situation, the two of us probably wouldn’t have much to talk about. But as we started to talk about politics, he looked at me and said, “I’ll hear you out, because I know we both love our unions.”
Those conversations are the key to everything.
Talking to each other again. Empathy and grace, instead of vitriol. Coming together to solve problems that actually matter to our families.
When we fight, we win.
This post originally appeared in te Detroit Free Press.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 09/03/2024 - 10:06Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Thousands More Nevada State Employees Win Union Election
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
A group of nearly 3,000 state employees—including those working for the welfare agency and Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)—won union representation as AFSCME Local 4041 this week in an election overseen by the state’s Government Employee-Management Relations Board.
Nevada state workers won collective bargaining rights back in 2019, and since securing their first contract, AFSCME members have seen more than 30% wage increases as well as other new benefits and improved grievance procedures. The new bargaining unit that will join negotiations in the fall includes engineering technicians from the Department of Transportation, DMV service technicians, family support specialists in the Division of Welfare and Support Services (DWSS), and library technicians throughout Nevada System of Higher Education institutions and more. This election victory almost doubles the size of Local 4041, increasing their power to deliver victories for these critical public sector workers.
“We see the benefits of having a union contract and voice on the job; that’s why we’ve organized as AFSCME and voted to have union representation. I’m excited tech workers now get to join our fellow AFSCME members at the bargaining table this fall,” said Austin Krehbiel, a family support specialist at the DWSS.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 09/03/2024 - 09:50The Road to the White House Runs Through America’s Union Halls: 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.
Project 2025 Provides a GOP Blueprint for Destroying the American Labor Movement: “Consequently, the nation’s labor movement saw Trump’s past record and agenda for the future for what they were. In a statement issued on July 18, 2024, Liz Shuler, president of the national AFL-CIO, declared, ‘In his first term as president, Donald Trump was a disaster for workers and our unions.’ Moreover, ‘the Trump Project 2025 agenda lays out his plan to turbocharge his antiworker policies, eliminate or control unions, and eviscerate labor laws and workers’ contracts.’ Consequently, ‘a second Trump term would put everything we’ve fought for―good jobs, fair wages, health care, retirement security, worker security―on the chopping block.’”
Thousands of Fred Meyer Employees Go on Strike Through Labor Day Weekend: “Nearly 5,000 employees at 28 Fred Meyer stores in and around Portland, Oregon, went on strike early Wednesday morning. The employees, represented by United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 555, plan to continue the strike for almost a week. Unless a deal is reached with Fred Meyer management, the grocery store workers won’t return to work until 8 a.m., on Tuesday, Sept. 3. UFCW says employees are striking over Fred Meyer’s violation of labor laws amid contract negotiations between grocery store management and the union. The union has filed several unfair labor practice charges against Fred Meyer, claiming that the company is ‘refusing to provide essential information for current negotiations’ and advertised benefits to employees the company hasn’t actually proposed at the bargaining table.”
Americans’ Approval of Labor Unions Near Highest Level Since 1960s: “Liz Shuler, president of the AFL-CIO labor federation, argued in a speech in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday that union influence would be pivotal in the race for the White House. The federation, which includes 60 unions, says that 22% of voters in Pennsylvania are either union members or retirees who’d been in unions. ‘We can run up the margins where it counts, we have built an organizing machine that can mobilize on a dime and we have built a singular trust and connection with workers, families and neighbors,’ Shuler said. ‘There is no question that the road to the White House runs through America’s union halls.’”
AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler Delivers State of the Unions Address: “AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler urged union members to vote and get others to the polls for the Harris-Walz ticket because the unions and workers’ rights are on the line in the 2024 elections. Shuler stressed the importance of the labor movement and the role of unions in communities across America during a speech at the AFL-CIO headquarters in Washington, D.C.”
Missouri AFL-CIO President Looks Ahead to Labor’s Impact on 2024 Elections: “Missouri holds a unique distinction among Republican-dominated states: having a robust and politically significant organized labor community. Individual unions often play a major role in campaigns for statewide and state legislative offices. And although organized labor is a core constituency of the Democratic Party, labor unions in Missouri have gotten involved in Republican primaries—especially when GOP contenders have pro-labor views. During an episode of the “Politically Speaking Hour” on St. Louis on the Air, Missouri AFL-CIO President Jake Hummel discussed how labor unions are approaching the upcoming election cycle. And that includes how his group endorsed Democrat State Rep. (Mo.) Crystal Quade and Republican Lt. Gov. (Mo.) Mike Kehoe during last month’s primary races for governor—something he said was somewhat unusual.”
The Real Reason NWSL Players Are Walking Out in ‘We Said Now’ Shirts: “On Aug. 25, Liz Shuler, president of the AFL-CIO, congratulated the players from the Washington Spirit and Kansas City Current (the first teams to play since the new collective bargaining agreement was announced) on such an historic accomplishment. ‘By ending the draft, they’ve won the right to shape their own futures—a victory for all workers,’ Shuler wrote on Twitter. ‘This is the power of unity! #wesaidnow.’”
‘Barely Surviving’: Some Flight Attendants Are Facing Homelessness and Hunger: “America’s largest flight attendants union, the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA-CWA), said in a recent news release that many members working with Alaska Airlines have reported financial insecurity, including some who have ‘experienced homelessness, lived in their car, lived in a shelter or endured some combination of these circumstances.’ An employment verification letter from American Airlines showing a projected starting pay of $27,315 per year recently went viral, with some calling it a ‘poverty verification’ letter that could be used to apply for government assistance programs such as food stamps. American Airlines confirmed that the letter reflects the current base rate for first-year flight attendants on reserve, without premiums or incentives.”
The Workers’ Mic Reflects on the DNC: “Listen in while Phil shares his interviews with AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler, Chicago Federation of Labor President Bob Reiter Jr., Interim President and Chief Executive Officer of Choose Chicago Richard Gamble and many others.”
Interview with AFL-CIO President Shuler: “My [Sari Beth Rosenberg’s] exclusive interview with Liz Shuler, president of the AFL-CIO.”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 08/30/2024 - 12:05Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Hampton Roads Transit Workers Score Major Raises with 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.
Hampton Roads Transit drivers and mechanics in Virginia secured huge pay raises in their new union contract. Starting pay for maintenance workers and operators will increase by 27%. The three-year contract also reduces the amount of time for bus and light-rail operators to reach the top of the pay scale and provides more sick leave and additional days off. The workers are represented by the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 1177.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 08/30/2024 - 10:15Fighting for a Fair and Just Contract: 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:
Sign up to march and/or have a meal with your fellow union members from Equity, SAG-AFTRA and AGMA! Visit the member portal to register. https://t.co/CFWhbcjJDj pic.twitter.com/0JKxuoUgja
— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) August 24, 2024
AFGE:
ICYMI: @AFGEPrezKelley delivering the opening invocation for tonight’s @DemConvention events. pic.twitter.com/ClEzaekKv5
— AFGE (@AFGENational) August 22, 2024
AFSCME:
In a video that was shown at the Democratic National Convention, AFSCME member Kelli Gray described how the Biden-Harris administration helped lift the weight of her crushing student loan debt. https://t.co/8EXdAnXLDX
— AFSCME (@AFSCME) August 27, 2024
Alliance for Retired Americans:
Let's be clear: For those worried about their retirement security, a second term for Donald Trump would be devastating. We need to elect candidates who will protect and expand Social Security and Medicare -- not cut them. https://t.co/qpBMawCBGR pic.twitter.com/VI6E93H887
— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) August 27, 2024
Amalgamated Transit Union:
We support our Local 1724 HandyDART members in their fight for the fair and just contract they deserve. #ATUStrongerTogether pic.twitter.com/Cn87HuUNR6
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) August 28, 2024
American Federation of Teachers:
Honor Emmett Till's legacy and learn more with these resources from @ShareMyLesson: https://t.co/6QKUDni1wz https://t.co/tHVJIKc2iF
— AFT (@AFTunion) August 28, 2024
American Postal Workers Union:
Clerk Craft Director Lamont Brooks summarizes the Clerk Conference at the APWU Biennial Convention, including delegate-approved changes to the national constitution and bylaws that will directly affect Clerk Division’s representation going forward. https://t.co/Qf1XIDoDei
— The American Postal Workers Union - APWU (@APWUnational) August 28, 2024
Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:
Our hearts are with Delta Tech Op workers and their families affected by the tragic incident in Atlanta where two workers lost their lives and others were injured earlier today.
AFA EAP is always available at 800-424-2406. https://t.co/mgC2OZlKDP
— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) August 27, 2024
Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers:
No one in government fought as hard as @SenSherrodBrown did for our pensions. https://t.co/RRMETZS2rA
— BCTGM International (@BCTGM) August 21, 2024
Boilermakers:
Breaking news: The International Executive Council has elected Clint Penny as International Secretary-Treasurer: https://t.co/VqWpTjwvZ6 pic.twitter.com/qz1Y1hGaHo
— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) August 27, 2024
Bricklayers:
Our President Tim Driscoll had the honor of joining @MassGovernor Maura Healey and others in addressing the @IAFFofficial at their 57th convention.
The conversation surrounded union solidarity and the importance of political advocacy!
Thanks for the invite! #ItsBetterInAUnion pic.twitter.com/VdzArmYRwq
— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) August 28, 2024
Communications Workers of America:
CWA members at AT&T in the Southeast are still on strike. When we fight, we win!
Video: @PBNewsGuild & @CWA3108 pic.twitter.com/AqHvT6UZC8
— CWA (@CWAUnion) August 26, 2024
Department for Professional Employees:
Historically, private-sector architectural professionals have not been union members. However, interest in unions is growing among architectural professionals and other professionals in design-related occupations. https://t.co/8ohEFS9wZ8
— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) August 27, 2024
Electrical Workers:
#IBEW members were out in full force at the 2024 #DNC to make our voice heard and to support@KamalaHarris and @Tim_Walz pic.twitter.com/5FYGLyNaIx
— IBEW (@IBEW) August 28, 2024
Heat and Frost Insulators:
In The City of Brotherly Love🔔
Next time you’re in Downtown Philly, check out “Pat Eiding Way,” honoring the Philadelphia AFL-CIO President Emeritus & former Local 14 Business Manager.
➡️Read more: https://t.co/xvVYLZqU4T#InsulatorsUnion #Insulators #InsulatorPride #HFIAW pic.twitter.com/QlBEEG3d9D
— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) August 28, 2024
International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers:
IFPTE Members Attend DNC as Delegates and Advance Priorities for Workers, Communities, and All Americanshttps://t.co/juV8uSXHE0
— IFPTE (@IFPTE) August 23, 2024
Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:
Today, we are proud ✊🏽 to join organizations across the country to shed light on the harmful effects of Project 2025 and how it will impact our comunidades. For more information or to get involved, visit https://t.co/tMivLyFh7B#DefendiendoNuestroFuturo #LatinosAgainstProject2025 pic.twitter.com/jjlscjih7O
— LCLAA (@LCLAA) August 27, 2024
Labor Heritage Foundation:
Check out our updated 2024 Labor Day Labor Arts Calendar! Festivities include labor arts events across the country. Got a labor music, film, history, or art event in your community? Let us know at info@laborheritage.org, and we'll add it to our calendar! https://t.co/dwuBAThirZ pic.twitter.com/mwoCsASz05
— Labor Heritage (@LaborHeritage1) August 27, 2024
Laborers:
Our GP and several labor leaders brought the POWER to the #DNC2024 stage last night, uniting behind the Harris-Walz ticket! Their passion and commitment to workers and #unions were electric. This is the momentum we need to secure our future! @DemConvention @VP @Tim_Walz https://t.co/2qH8Xmv03e
— LIUNA (@LIUNA) August 20, 2024
Machinists:
IAM branding is going up at the Hilton Midtown, NYC courtesy of Carpenters Local 157 members!
Union members building a union Convention! ⚙️💪#IAM2024 pic.twitter.com/mwpFa6Titr
— Machinists Union (@MachinistsUnion) August 28, 2024
Mine Workers:
“Betty Jean Hall was a remarkable woman who dedicated her life to advocating for coal miners and championing the rights and opportunities for women in our industry. Her legacy is one of strength..." - Cecil Robertshttps://t.co/97mBMS41A0
— United Mine Workers (@MineWorkers) August 20, 2024
Musical Artists:
Sept 9: Join the AGMA Staging Staff Caucus for a discussion on labor-management conflict resolution w/ experts from Cornell's Scheinman Institute. Open to AGMA Staging Staff members. Details: https://t.co/J2GKA8xWHY pic.twitter.com/hJ0b6Qeyq6
— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) August 27, 2024
National Association of Letter Carriers:
Reno, NV Branch 709 was proud to rally in solidarity with @NRLCA yesterday as letter carriers continue to call for protection from violence & crime while delivering mail in communities across the U.S. Learn more about the Protect Our Letter Carriers Act ➡️ https://t.co/ylwbV47kaq pic.twitter.com/89bWIoZiSj
— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) August 27, 2024
National Day Laborer Organizing Network:
SYRACUSE, NY 🚌❤️: We're here! Join us TODAY on our next #CareCantWait Bus Tour stop to fight for an affordable and accessible care system we all deserve.
RSVP here: https://t.co/7dHlZ5aEf5
— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) August 28, 2024
National Nurses United:
Union nurses in @nynurses, @minurses, @mnnurses, and all across the country are fired up to see nurse values on the ballot this election season!
Join the #NursesforKamala coalition in getting Harris and Walz into the White House! 🗳️ pic.twitter.com/6ZmKotNJ3a
— NationalNursesUnited (@NationalNurses) August 25, 2024
NFL Players Association:
Help us give a warm welcome to our two newest NFLPA Player Directors: Michael Thomas + Scott Wells! Their first experience will be hitting the road for the next six weeks to meet and support all current players. pic.twitter.com/F4Lv2dJEl5
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) August 26, 2024
North America's Building Trades Unions:
Donald Trump is not a friend to unions.
pic.twitter.com/uG90kiiTqe
— The Building Trades (@NABTU) August 27, 2024
Office and Professional Employees:
OPEIU Local 251 represents over 550 workers at Sandia National Labs in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Their union contract expires on September 24, 2024.
Sign a letter in support of their fight for a fair contract! ⬇️⬇️⬇️https://t.co/AstWPFWZUH
— OPEIU | #UnionStrong (@OPEIU) August 22, 2024
Painters and Allied Trades:
As we chart our course for the next five years, we honor a century of progress that has secured democracy, fair wages, and dignity for workers.
Together, we can become an unmatched force in our industry—stronger, inclusive, and empowering at every level. #OneIUPAT pic.twitter.com/DxJnKhgHfC
— IUPAT (@GoIUPAT) August 27, 2024
Plasterers and Cement Masons:
Active & retired union members may be eligible for home financing benefits through the @UnionPlus® Mortgage program, with financing provided by Wells Fargo Home Mortgage. Equal Housing Lender. https://t.co/nXrO69XJC7 pic.twitter.com/xZ9j76bthh
— OPCMIA International (@opcmiaintl) August 26, 2024
Pride At Work:
Being LGBTQIA+ can be an obstacle as a voter who lives in a state that has voter identification laws. Join @prideatwork, @LCLAA, @CLUWNational and @VoteRiders on Tuesday, August 27th at 6:00 PM EDT to learn about the potential impacts.
Register here: https://t.co/phYgZPZ0G6 pic.twitter.com/KWrw6rnTcK
— Pride at Work (@PrideatWork) August 21, 2024
Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:
61 years ago today, @RWDSU joined working people for the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom! RWDSU leaders like Cleve Robinson helped plan the march, and Local 1-S members, pictured here, were among the union workers who traveled to the historic civil rights action! pic.twitter.com/gHQESertCT
— RWDSU (@RWDSU) August 28, 2024
SAG-AFTRA:
“We are thrilled that one of our top legislative priorities, AB 2602 has passed in the State of California. The bill, which protects not only SAG-AFTRA performers but all performers, is a huge step forward. ... 1/2https://t.co/jNF0bRYOef
— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) August 28, 2024
Solidarity Center:
The support from @Culinary226 for striking Evolution Gaming workers in the Republic of Georgia is what true global #solidarity looks like. ✊https://t.co/i1rBZLe1jC@casinosc0m
— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) August 27, 2024
The NewsGuild-CWA:
🚨 More than 3,000 supporters have already given to @ThePUPNews strikers to cover rent, unexpected expenses, groceries and much more.
We're so close to blowing past $800k raised in support of the LONGEST strike in the country! Pitch in here: https://t.co/rSonkCeva7 pic.twitter.com/iGtE8Lyt4B
— NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) August 27, 2024
Theatrical Stage Employees:
On #WomensEqualityDay, we honor the fearless women who fought for the right to vote, paving the way for equality.
This November, let's exercise our right to vote, ensuring that the hard-won victories are preserved, and our voices continue to drive the fight for gender equality. pic.twitter.com/htFpPTu4sq
— IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) August 26, 2024
Transport Workers Union:
— TWU (@transportworker) August 19, 2024
Transportation Trades Department:
WATCH: @TTDAFLCIO President Greg Regan spoke at the @DemConvention last week to highlight the Biden-Harris Administration's investments in America’s working families, transportation and infrastructure. 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/5WrDbl31Sg
— TTD | America's Transportation Unions (@TTDAFLCIO) August 26, 2024
UAW:
Workers at the Detroit-area Webasto plant are standing up to form their union and UAW Local 900 has their backs! #StandUpWebasto pic.twitter.com/7Doiq1j2xQ
— UAW (@UAW) August 28, 2024
UNITE HERE:
Hotel workers are putting the industry on notice.
Our wages aren’t enough.
Staffing cuts have made our jobs more painful than ever.
And we’re ready to strike for what our families need. pic.twitter.com/UITZ58wlyJ
— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) August 27, 2024
United Food and Commercial Workers:
Over 45 workers at 17 CBD Kratom & Mr. Nice Guy cannabis dispensaries have joined UFCW Local 655.
Workers organized to join UFCW due to shared concerns about insufficient wages, benefits, health insurance, & job stability. Let’s get to work!
➡️ https://t.co/tXit8QFQYF pic.twitter.com/KVWoVJvTaG
— UFCW (@UFCW) August 27, 2024
United Steelworkers:
For Paige Cisco of Local 689 in Ohio, fighting for workers’ health and safety is what motivates her every day. Read her full story: https://t.co/fNURJ8TXGw pic.twitter.com/9nV2ATGGCF
— United Steelworkers #EverybodysUnion (@steelworkers) August 27, 2024
Utility Workers:
The Executive Board of @UWUA_Local_1_2 is ready for Labor Day!
Every UWUA local received a limited quantity of these #ItsBetterInAUnion shirts so that across the country our union will be visible as we celebrate the labor movement. pic.twitter.com/w1JY5TjHvq
— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) August 28, 2024
Writers Guild of America East:
When writers decide to work together to organize a union at their workplace, they create the leverage and power they need to improve their working lives. You are the union. Reach out to us at organize@wgaeast.org to learn more and ask questions. #UnionStrong 💪
— Writers Guild of America East (@WGAEast) August 27, 2024
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 08/28/2024 - 10:04Service & Solidarity Spotlight: SMART-TD Announces Tentative Deal for Conductors with Amtrak
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Last week, the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers-Transportation Division (SMART-TD) announced a tentative agreement for a seven-year contract with Amtrak that covers conductors and assistant conductors.
Details of the agreement will go out to membership for a ratification vote over the next few weeks. Key economic highlights of the contract include substantial wage increases that are retroactive to July 2022, greater new hire training per diem, more conductor certification pay and improved training pay. SMART-TD also secured major wins relating to worker health and work-life balance, such as more paid parental leave, designating Martin Luther King Jr. Day as a paid holiday, improvements to bereavement pay and expansion of overtime.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 08/28/2024 - 09:56Break the Bias: 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).
Arizona AFL-CIO:
💪Michael "BIG MIKE" Dawson, a member of the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT) has made the 10,000th call in our #2024LaborVotes campaign! pic.twitter.com/ZtBxIG3XSe
— Arizona AFL-CIO (@ArizonaAFLCIO) August 21, 2024
California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:
We are training up more union members throughout the state to hit worksites and the doors about the importance of the upcoming elections. pic.twitter.com/zXQ9WklIs9
— California Federation of Labor Unions (@CaliforniaLabor) August 24, 2024
Connecticut AFL-CIO:
The Connecticut AFL-CIO strongly condemns the anti-Semitic remarks made by Rep. Figueroa. @ehawthorne3 pic.twitter.com/Fwvi0lj7hy
— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) August 13, 2024
Florida AFL-CIO:
We love to see it! ✊ 💪 https://t.co/Srce55p0aP
— Florida AFL-CIO (@FLAFLCIO) August 23, 2024
Georgia State AFL-CIO:
As of 2020, roughly 10.6 million of the 15.9 million workers covered by a union contract are women and/or people of color. Almost half of workers represented by a union are women (47.1%).#WomenEqualityDay #1u #unionstrong #unionproud #solidarity #UnionsForAll #love #Equality pic.twitter.com/6ger5qGLvM
— Georgia AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOGeorgia) August 26, 2024
Illinois AFL-CIO:
Our friends at the @CFM10208 are organizing Hip Hop musicians, DJs, and EDM artists. These genres have rich ties to Illinois. Let's celebrate these artists as they fight for fair wages and an end to a "pay to play" culture of exploitation. More here: https://t.co/QOyVYfkV2M pic.twitter.com/vfERUxuiEl
— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) August 26, 2024
Indiana State AFL-CIO:
— Indiana AFL-CIO (@INAFLCIO) August 27, 2024
Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
🚨Primary GOTV Alert🚨
Election Day is Tuesday, 9/3!!
We will be working to elect our endorsed labor champions before, during, and after primary day! To kick off GOTV week, join Women Build Boston in Cambridge Monday to support State Rep. Marjorie Decker! 1/3 pic.twitter.com/Km15WcTJJ2
— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) August 23, 2024
Minnesota AFL-CIO:
The two-year-old Inflation Reduction Act is fulfilling its promise of accelerating the country’s transition to renewable energy while creating good-paying, union jobs along the way. #1u https://t.co/Ym21wOop4P
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) August 26, 2024
Missouri AFL-CIO:
🌡️ ☀️ It is very hot. Make sure you are hydrating and know the symptoms of a heat stroke. #heatwave pic.twitter.com/eQCoY2MS3X
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) August 27, 2024
Nevada State AFL-CIO:
Thank you to our amazing affiliates, sponsors, elected officials, and community partners for joining us for our 68th Constitutional Convention Welcome Reception! pic.twitter.com/iyMTdSliHN
— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) August 26, 2024
New York State AFL-CIO:
Congratulations to our President Mario Cilento, Secretary-Treasurer Terry Melvin, and the Vice Presidents on their elections! A special thanks to @NYSDOLCommish for swearing in our leaders this morning. pic.twitter.com/0suk9PNu6N
— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) August 27, 2024
North Carolina State AFL-CIO:
NC Labor Movement Welcomes @VP @KamalaHarris back to Raleigh! https://t.co/1eLJR68CvR #1u #ncpol 1/3 pic.twitter.com/D16u6hqaF8
— NC State AFL-CIO // #CountMeIn (@NCStateAFLCIO) August 16, 2024
Ohio AFL-CIO:
It's easy to see where @johnlegend got his values when we find out he grew up in a @UAW @AFLCIO #union household. https://t.co/HPtJLOqJjN
— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) August 26, 2024
Oregon AFL-CIO:
The clock is ticking Boeing ⏰ @IAM751 and District W24’s contract expires on September 12. Boeing Machinists deserve a #FairContractNow. #Solidarity
Read more 👇https://t.co/tFCm6fxtvM pic.twitter.com/JsrHVCMP9Y
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) August 27, 2024
Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:
Unions are the best tool to stand up to the historic inequity & corporate greed we are up against. In 2022 unions won 76% of National Labor Relations Board elections, the highest rate ever. And unions are more popular with the public now than at any time since the 1960s.#LaborDay pic.twitter.com/lltdUBH44S
— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) August 26, 2024
Texas AFL-CIO:
NEWS: Through our 2024 Scholarship Program, the Texas AFL-CIO awarded 25 grants of $1,500 each to an outstanding class of applicants.
Thank you to the locals and members who made this possible through their generous donations.
Read more: https://t.co/3M5bK7ZO1A
— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) August 26, 2024
Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
Under Gov. Walz, Minnesota runs one of the most effective OSHA state plan programs. The state ranks fifth-lowest in the rate of workplace fatalities, significantly lower than the federal workplace fatality rate. https://t.co/FX4BpGhOm0
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) August 24, 2024
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 08/27/2024 - 10:37Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Guitar Center Workers in Six Locations Ratify New Contract
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU-UFCW) members at six Guitar Center locations in Illinois, Massachusetts, Nevada and New York ratified a new three-year contract.
The agreement includes multiple meaningful wins for staff, like an increased minimum wage rate for every position—which will continue to go up every year throughout the life of the contract—and an additional seniority wage adjustment for more tenured workers. Additionally, members are maintaining their union health care plan with the addition of a new short-term disability benefit. Other highlights are an updated attendance policy that increases the grace period for being late, provisions protecting the right to call additional labor-management meetings during the year, work schedule transparency, upward mobility opportunities, protections for the current commissions policy and more.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 08/27/2024 - 09:56Saving Workers' Lives and Limbs: 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.
Labor Leaders Stand Up, Show Out for Kamala at DNC: “The Democratic National Convention’s (DNC) nomination of Vice President Kamala Harris for president and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as the next vice president commenced with a wave of endorsements from the nation’s largest labor unions. On the very first night of the convention, an impressive gathering of union presidents took the stage. AFSCME’s Lee Saunders, SEIU (Service Employees International Union) President April Verrett, LIUNA (Laborer’s International Union of North America) President Brent Booker, Ken Cooper of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), Claude Cummings Jr. of the Communication Workers of America (CWA), and Liz Shuler of the AFL-CIO stood on stage together, they displayed the power of unions.”
NWSL, Players Reach New CBA That Includes Elimination of Draft: “The National Women’s Soccer League and its players agreed to a new collective bargaining agreement that will grow salaries and further expand player rights regarding free agency and trades, the sides announced Thursday. The deal includes the elimination of the college draft, a first for a major North American professional sports league. The new CBA will extend the current contract, which was negotiated in 2022 and was set to expire in 2026, through 2030. Some of the new terms, such as the elimination of the draft and free agency for all players when their contracts expire, will go into effect immediately; others will begin in 2025.”
How Tim Walz Saved Workers’ Lives and Limbs: “In 2023, with a narrow Democratic majority and working closely with the Minnesota AFL-CIO, the state legislature passed several innovative laws that greatly strengthen the safety and health protections provided to Minnesota workers employed in high-hazard jobs. These include: Protecting Workers from Ergonomic Hazards: About 30% of all serious injuries reported by employers to the Bureau of Labor Statistics are musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). These are injuries to the back, wrist, neck, or arm caused by exposure to lifting, twisting, repetitive motions, and other ergonomic hazards.”
Union Leaders at DNC Push Back Against Trump Overtures to Organized Labor: “Vice President Kamala Harris’ campaign is highlighting its pro-union stance at the Democratic National Convention this week, pushing back against Republican Party overtures to organized labor at their own convention last month. It’s an attempt to refute former President Donald Trump’s claims that he will work with organized labor amid recent meetings with the president of the Teamsters union, and an effort by Harris to hitch onto President Joe Biden’s labor record, which includes being the first president to walk a picket line. Addressing the Wisconsin delegation to the DNC Wednesday morning, U.S. Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su argued Harris had fought wage theft as attorney general of California, and would enact worker-friendly policies as president.”
Venetian Las Vegas Reaches Tentative Deal with Workers for First Union Contract: “The Venetian Resort has agreed to its first union contract with more than 4,000 hospitality workers. The Culinary Union announced that a tentative agreement was reached Tuesday morning for workers at The Venetian and Palazzo. A contract ratification vote will be scheduled soon, according to a union spokesperson. Culinary and Venetian leadership reached an agreement in June last year for ‘card check neutrality.’ That meant the resort would not take a position as employees explored possible unionization.”
University of Alaska and Graduate Student Union Reach Three-Year Contract: “A new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) between the University of Alaska and the Alaska Graduate Workers Association-UAW Union (AGWA-UAW) took effect on July 1. This is the first time the University of Alaska and AGWA have negotiated a CBA. The agreement comes less than a year after University of Alaska graduate student employees voted to form a union.”
Union Leaders Frame Harris as Champion of the Working Class in Night 1 of DNC: “Union leaders championed Vice President Kamala Harris as the choice for working class folks in a series of speeches on the opening night of the Democratic National Convention. ‘This election is about two economic visions,’ said Liz Shuler, president of the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations, or AFL-CIO. Her union represents nearly 13 million American workers, she said.”
Kamala Harris Names a Unionist as Her VP: “Just hours after Vice President Kamala Harris named Tim Walz as her running mate Aug. 6, AFL-CIO president Liz Shuler celebrated the pick in a press statement, calling Walz a ‘principled fighter and labor champion’ who’s not just an ally but a union brother. Walz is a former public high school teacher and football coach who has been Minnesota’s governor since 2019. As governor, he signed lots of pro-worker legislation, including: Paid family and medical leave and mandated paid sick days; A ban on noncompete clauses; A ban on employers from holding mandatory anti-union meetings; Letting teachers unions bargain over class size; and $2.6 billion in infrastructure investments.”
The Rev. Barber: Kamala Harris Isn’t Just Listening to Workers. She’s Sounding Like Them: “With its rallies that pack arenas, Vice President Kamala Harris’ presidential campaign has harnessed an energy that many have compared to Barack Obama’s 2008 campaign. Polls in battleground states indicate that the dynamics of the presidential race have fundamentally shifted, but skeptics question if the good vibes can last once the vice president starts to detail policy. Is this burst of excitement, they ask, just the momentary enthusiasm of voters surprised by an unexpected transition? When we pay attention to what Harris and Walz have already said, though, it’s clear they have tapped the energy of worker-driven movements that want to create an economy that works for all of us. The good vibes and the economic vision of this campaign are, in fact, deeply connected.”
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 08/26/2024 - 12:04Service & Solidarity Alert: 17,000 AT&T Southeast Workers on Strike
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
We are CWA members on strike at AT&T Southeast because AT&T is refusing to engage in good faith negotiations for a new contract.
We are a big part of AT&T’s success, but we have been at the bargaining table since June, unable to make any progress because of the Company's bad faith bargaining.
The National Labor Relations Act requires companies to bargain in good faith. We have filed an unfair labor practice charge against the company and are on strike to protest the Company's unfair bargaining tactics.
We want to be on the job, providing the quality service that our customers deserve and getting to work making sure every household and business in the Southeast has reliable high-speed internet service.
Tell AT&T to show us the respect we deserve and get serious about bargaining.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 08/26/2024 - 10:22Tags: Organizing
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Memphis City Employees Celebrate Across-the-Board Pay Raises and Bonuses
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.
Employees of the city of Memphis, Tennessee, are celebrating much-needed wage hikes and bonuses they secured through the union they formed—a testament to the power of a union.
They are celebrating $5,000 bonuses along with pay raises of at least 5%. Workers who keep Memphis’ hospitals, schools and roads running saw this increase last month.
Employees of the city’s Solid Waste Department, who keep Memphis clean, saw pay raises ranging from 6% to 34%.
Corrections officers and deputies saw raises of 6%.
These well-deserved pay raises and bonuses are thanks to AFSCME Local 1733 members, who had been negotiating with the Memphis City Council since April and came to an agreement.
Tomorrow Bonds, a member of Local 1733’s negotiations team and a crewperson in the Memphis Public Works Department, said that she and her co-workers were not going to back down from their proposals.
“We came to the table with our proposals for the wage increases that we wanted, but the city kept turning it down,” Bonds said. “But we decided we weren’t going to take their counterproposals for less, and we wanted a fair wage.”
On June 18, Local 1733 members ratified a memorandum of understanding that they reached with the city for these pay increases and bonuses to take effect on July 1.
For Bonds, these wage increases are only the beginning. The fight for a livable wage continues.
“It’s very important to me that everybody has a livable wage, and right now, we’re still not at a livable wage,” Bonds said. “But I can see that fighting for this pay increase has opened up a path for us to get there.”
This post originally appeared on the AFSCME blog.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 08/23/2024 - 10:02Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Women’s Soccer Players Association Scores Historic Collective Bargaining 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 National Women’s Soccer League Players Association (NWSLPA) announced their historic new collective bargaining agreement, which ensures free agency for all players, revenue sharing on top of salaries, important health and safety protections, and other provisions that will help create a more equitable League. For the first time ever in American professional sports, this contract also eliminates the draft, empowering athlete workers to have a real say over their futures.
“The new Collective Bargaining Agreement is a reflection of the collective power of the Players,” said NWSLPA President Tori Huster. “Together, we secured freedoms that empower the Players to have autonomy over their careers and in doing so, reshaped American sports.”
“Just weeks after some members of the NWSLPA became Olympic champions with Team USA, these athletes have made history yet again,” said AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler. “This game-changing collective bargaining agreement sets the gold standard for all professional sports and affirms what workers in unions can accomplish when we stand together. The revolutionary victories they secured—from eliminating the draft to requiring player consent for trades to safeguarding player health—advance the critical work of professional sports associations to let players decide what’s best for their families. Collective bargaining is a powerful tool in achieving women’s equality in any workplace, and these results are a testament to the visionary leadership of President Tori Huster, Executive Director Meghann Burke, Vice President Simone Charley, the bargaining committee and all members of the Players Association who are dedicated to creating a better, fairer League. The AFL-CIO is beyond proud to count the NWSLPA among its Sports Council and affiliate unions, and we look forward to continuing to support the NWSL players to ensure fair implementation of this contract. It’s a damn good day for union women in America!”
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 08/22/2024 - 09:58
