Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Valley Ford Truck Workers Secure New Contract; End 3-Month Strike
Working people across the United States have stepped 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.
Workers at Valley Ford Truck in Ohio reached a three-year contract, ending a strike that began in mid-December. The contract covers 24 workers who are members of the Machinists (IAM) Local 1363. Most of the workers are automotive, light truck or heavy truck technicians, and they went on strike Dec. 18 over workers’ 401(k) retirement plans and being guaranteed a certain number of weekly work hours. The contract includes pay raises and eliminates a two-tier vacation schedule, among other benefits.
“It was a long battle,” said Robert Towslee, the union’s business representative. “We had a lot of support from our union brothers and sisters. Everybody is glad to have this done. They’re anxious to get back to work and put this in the rearview mirror.”
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 04/02/2024 - 10:01A Pro-Worker Vision: 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.
Organized Labor Is Committed to Building Sustainable Offshore Wind Energy: “Labor leaders presented a pro-worker vision for generating sustainable offshore wind energy along the Southern New England coast at a virtual press conference, on Friday, March 15. This effort unites organized labor, the environmental movement, coastal communities, and elected officials. The press conference was moderated by Patrick Crowley, secretary-treasurer of the Rhode Island AFL-CIO. The national significance of this commitment was highlighted by introductory remarks from Liz Shuler, president of the AFL-CIO. Shuler said that good union jobs, environmental issues, offshore wind energy, and building a renewable energy industry are tied together.”
Residents at WMU’s Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine Vote to Unionize: “By an overwhelming margin, residents at the Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine have voted to form union. Last week, more than 90% of residents who voted, voted in favor of unionizing as the Resident and Fellow Alliance, affiliated with the American Federation of Teachers and the AFL-CIO unions. The union vote still has to be certified by the National Labor Relations Board.”
KCUR Editorial Staffers Begin the Process of Forming a Union. Pay Is a Key Issue: “Editorial staffers at KCUR, the NPR-member station in Kansas City, and its partners have petitioned to organize a union, the second public radio station in Missouri to do so. If successful, KCUR would become the second unionized public radio station in Missouri. The station’s general manager promised a continued focus on ‘trusted journalism and entertainment that is freely accessible to all.’ Members of the union organizing committee said that 70% of eligible staffers, including reporters, producers, on-air hosts, newscasters and audience development specialists, joined the petition to form a collective bargaining unit with the Communication Workers of America.”
Georgia Is Trying to Make It Harder for Workers to Unionize: “Labor has been stirring recently. That’s unacceptable for bosses, who never rest in their attacks on unions. Case in point: a new bill in Georgia that seeks to ensure the unionization process is as difficult for workers and favorable to bosses as possible. The Georgia legislation passed in the state Senate last month 31-23 and in the House on Wednesday 96-78, in votes that fell almost entirely along party lines, with Republicans backing the bill. It’s sure to face legal challenges for violating the NLRA’s protection of workers’ right to voluntary recognition. As American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) president Liz Shuler said of the bill, it ‘violat[es] long-held precedent established by the NLRA.’ Only 4.4% of workers in Georgia are unionized, the eighth-lowest union density in the United States. The bill is ‘a solution in search of a problem,’ James Williams of the Georgia AFL-CIO said.”
After Warrior Met Coal Strike, Miners’ Union, AFL-CIO Urge Reforms from Stockholders: “The union that organized the longest strike in Alabama history, along with the AFL-CIO, is urging stockholders of Warrior Met Coal to support a package of proposals it says would eliminate some of the conditions that resulted in the strike. The United Mine Workers of America today announced the slate of proposals for the company’s April 25 shareholders meeting. ‘In our view, Warrior Met’s poor labor relations have cost the company’s stockholders and coal miners dearly while its management has been insulated from these costs,’ UMWA International President Cecil E. Roberts said. ‘Having an entrenched corporate management is never a good thing for the sustainable financial performance of a company,’ Carin Zelenko, Director of Capital Strategies for the AFL-CIO. ‘Our stockholder proposals seek to better align the interests of Warrior Met’s management with the long-term interests of the company, its investors, and employees.’”
Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su on the Worker Movement 113 Years After the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire: “The fire spread quickly. On that Saturday in March of 1911, black smoke billowed out of the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory near Washington Square Park in New York City. The panicked workers inside, many of them young immigrant women and some as young as fourteen, cried out for help and tried to flee, but they found locked exit doors and broken fire escapes. So they climbed out of the windows and onto the ledges of the building, jumping to their deaths to be spared from the engulfing flames. Soon, hundreds of bystanders looked up in horror and began hearing thud after thud of bodies hitting the street below. Among the bystanders was a young woman named Frances Perkins. Today, we know her as the first woman to serve as United States Labor Secretary—the first woman to serve in the Cabinet of any U.S. President—and she is widely regarded as the most consequential leader to ever hold the post. This Women’s History Month, I’m reflecting on Frances Perkins’ legacy and how she turned the unheard voices of those immigrant women into a call to action.”
AFL-CIO, Building Trades Hail EPA’s Asbestos Ban: “AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler, an Electrical Worker, hailed the ban as ‘a landmark protection for workers, banning and phasing out all current uses and imports of chrysotile asbestos, and eliminating these exposures in workplaces and throughout the supply chain.’ But both Shuler and Building Trades Unions President Sean McGarvey also urged EPA to pursue bans on exposure to ‘legacy’ asbestos which endangers workers rehabbing old schools, factories, homes, and businesses. This ban ‘does not eliminate all types of asbestos fibers and is only the first half of the EPA’s plans to address worker asbestos exposures,’ Shuler warned. Firefighters, construction workers, and factory workers are still ‘exposed to ‘legacy’ asbestos throughout our old buildings and infrastructure. We urge the EPA to move swiftly to address those risks.’”
White House Hosts Women's History Month Labor Roundtable: “This week, Trade Representative Katherine Tai, Director of the White House Gender Policy Council Jennifer Klein, Deputy Undersecretary of International Labor Affairs Thea Lee, Deputy Assistant to the President Samantha Silverberg and the White House Office of Public Engagement hosted a group of women labor leaders and organizers at the White House. The event, held in partnership with the AFL-CIO and moderated by White House Senior Labor Advisor Erika Dinkel-Smith, was a celebration of women in labor in honor of Women's History Month and highlighted how the Biden-Harris Administration is putting women and girls at the heart of the Administration's economic agenda, and promoting and defending women workers' rights both domestically and abroad. Participants included AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler, AFL-CIO State Federation and Central Labor Council leaders, as well as young women organizers on the front lines of organizing new workplaces and expanding the benefits of unionization to women in their states. Collectively, attendees represented union members in the 14 states they represent.”
Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff Joins Labor Leaders in Denver for Roundtable Discussion: “Second gentleman Doug Emhoff sat down with local union leaders in Denver on Thursday to talk about the Biden-Harris campaign’s continued support of union work. Union leaders from the Service Employees International Union Local 105, the Colorado Education Association, the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, and others sat down with Emhoff to ask questions about labor at a roundtable hosted by the Colorado Democratic Party. The national organizations for both SEIU and AFSCME endorsed Biden last year. ‘We are making the case to everyone that the Biden-Harris administration has delivered for the American people, including folks in labor,’ Emhoff said.”
National Labor Leader Pushes Apprenticeship Programs, Unionism in Pittsburgh Visit: “When it came time to choose a career, it didn’t take Rick Pireaux long to decide. With three previous generations of his family serving as iron workers, it was only natural that he would follow that tradition. Now, as an apprentice instructor for Iron Workers Local 3 in Pittsburgh’s Strip District, his role is to persuade others to follow that same path. Pireaux and others led tours of the union training facility Thursday as part of a national effort by Sean McGarvey, president of North America’s Building Trades Unions, to spread the word about the value of union labor. McGarvey joined a group of elected officials and labor leaders who spoke at a program after the tour to encourage more workers to apply for apprenticeships in the building trades.”
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 04/01/2024 - 10:21Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Universal City AMC Workers Vote to Join IATSE
Working people across the United States have stepped 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.
Workers at the Universal Cinema AMC at CityWalk Hollywood voted to join the Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE). A majority of 37 employees voted in favor of joining IATSE and six voted against. Ushers, cooks, bartenders and all other non-management employees of the theater are part of the group that is set to join IATSE, and the workers are primarily concerned with wages and scheduling issues.
“We are incredibly happy that the workers at the AMC Citywalk theater banded together to join IATSE with an 86 percent majority yes vote in the recent union election,” Universal Cinema AMC crewmembers Savannah Copeland and Maria Lubanovic said in a statement. “These past few months have shown how dedicated the crewmembers are not only to improve the workplace for themselves, but for everyone around them. It is truly inspiring to see how much they care for each other.”
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 04/01/2024 - 10:02Tags: Organizing
Happy Easter
The AFL-CIO, representing more than 12.5 million working people in 60 national and international unions, extends our heartfelt greetings to our union members who are Christian, their families and the Christian community this Easter.
In 2024, Easter is celebrated on Sunday, March 31, and on May 5 by Eastern Orthodox churches.
Easter celebrates the foundational Christian belief in the Resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead and the promise of eternal life for those who follow Him.
Easter offers hope in what seems to be a time of hopelessness.
It is that hope that gives us the strength and courage to continue on in the face of overwhelming odds to strive for justice and equity against the forces of hate and bigotry. Hope allows us to believe more is possible.
Easter is a time to renew the aspirations we have for family, community and nation that may seem impossible to achieve, knowing the Easter spirit gives us the hope to persevere.
May this be a special opportunity for you to enjoy your family and loved ones, encouraged by the hope of Easter for the possibilities the future holds.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 03/28/2024 - 17:00Women's History Month Profiles: Joan Mah
This year, for Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Joan Mah of the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE).
Joan Mah is a Western Region vice president representing Engineers and Scientists of California, IFPTE Local 20. Mah’s local represents over 8,000 licensed engineers, scientists, health care professionals and attorneys at employers throughout Northern California. Mah is an optometrist and steward at the Kaiser Permanente San Rafael facility. She has practiced optometry since 1991. She completed her undergraduate degrees in microbiology and immunology and physiological optics, and her doctorate of optometry degree at the University of California, Berkeley. Mah is the founding chair of the Local 20 Women’s Committee.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 03/28/2024 - 10:09Tags: Women's History Month
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: SEGA Workers Reach Landmark Collective Bargaining Agreement
Working people across the United States have stepped 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.
Workers who are members of the Communications Workers of America (CWA) at SEGA of America voted to ratify their first union contract. The contract covers a range of job titles, including designers, translators, editors, producers, quality assurance testers, marketing managers and more. The contract includes base-building raises for every worker in the unit, just cause protections, layoff protections, commitment to crediting all workers for their contributions to video games, clarification of the noncompete policy and other benefits.
“This is a watershed moment for workers in the video game industry. We’ve proven that a collectively bargained contract with substantial improvements and protections is possible even when management takes an initially hostile stance toward worker organizing. We’re hopeful that in the midst of extensive layoffs, workers across the video game industry will see organizing as a pathway to improve working conditions for all of us,” said Jasmin Hernandez, short-form animation production manager and member of the Allied Employees Guild Improving SEGA (AEGIS-CWA).
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 03/28/2024 - 10:00Long Overdue: 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).
Alabama AFL-CIO:
#longoverdue https://t.co/HEUnk4kRfZ
— Alabama AFL-CIO (@AlabamaAFLCIO) March 25, 2024
Alaska AFL-CIO:
Wally Robinson, a 20-year member of @IBEW1547, faced sub-zero temperatures to run the 2024 Iditarod, a 1,000-mile sled dog race.
Being a member of the @IBEW has allowed Wally to raise his family and secure a good retirement. Wally is a prime example of the #UnionDifference! pic.twitter.com/CTOfKdFDPD
— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) March 26, 2024
California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:
4 days:
That’s how long the Administration has to approve the Cal/OSHA Indoor Heat Illness Prevention rule.#SummerIsComing & climate change is making it hotter.
California workers cannot go another year without safety protections.
Adopt the heat standard *TODAY*!#HeatKills pic.twitter.com/E4XvT4vB00
— California Labor Federation (@CaliforniaLabor) March 26, 2024
Colorado AFL-CIO:
We commend Senator Hansen for supporting renters by pushing back against loopholes and attempts to water down HB24-1098 - the for cause evictions bill. #coleg #copols pic.twitter.com/z3VgTHHduC
— Colorado AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOCO) March 25, 2024
Connecticut AFL-CIO:
BREAKING: The CT State Senate just voted to approve the union contract for personal care attendants (PCAs) who are members of @SEIU1199_NE! Their contract provides wage increases, paid time off, longevity bonuses, and help with insurance premiums. pic.twitter.com/ODgh6tkK3G
— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) March 25, 2024
Florida AFL-CIO:
Would love to see Gov. DeSantis attack greedy insurance companies, abusive landlords, or tax dodging mega corporations the same way he does helpless Haitians fleeing a devastated country. pic.twitter.com/OLx4aijrSG
— Florida AFL-CIO (@FLAFLCIO) March 22, 2024
Georgia State AFL-CIO:
Georgia’s working families deserve lawmakers who will fight for our right to organize and will advocate for good union jobs with the fair pay and benefits we need. We condemn the passage of SB 362 as a ploy by corporate elite to further their power. Our fight continues. https://t.co/qHWuBkK7N5
— Georgia AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOGeorgia) March 20, 2024
Illinois AFL-CIO:
Public service isn’t just a job: it’s a calling.
We are proud to recognize April Williams and Nicole Cantello from @AFGENational and Latoya Johnson from @afscme31 this #womenshistorymonth.
These workers keep Illinois running with their dedication to our communities.#1u pic.twitter.com/59w4wRKhz5
— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) March 26, 2024
Maine AFL-CIO:
The Maine Senate has voted 22-13 passed LD 1619, which would require safe nurse patient ratios in hospitals! This is a HUGE win for nurses & patients! #mepolitics pic.twitter.com/uzLeY8Q6m0
— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) March 27, 2024
Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
Congratulations to President @chrissylynch29 and all of the awardees at this year’s @CPAJustice Banquet who were honored on Friday night pic.twitter.com/em7qxCsw7v
— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) March 24, 2024
Michigan State AFL-CIO:
Keeping this seat in pro-worker hands this April is essential to continuing all the progress we’ve made since electing the first pro-worker trifecta in 40 years.
That's why we're endorsing Peter Herzberg in the special election in HD 25! pic.twitter.com/kCINcfpJSg
— Michigan AFL-CIO ✊ (@MIAFLCIO) March 27, 2024
Minnesota AFL-CIO:
Sizzling in the Kitchen: Trainees Gain Culinary Know-How @mntrainpartner @unitehere17 #1u https://t.co/b6s7vcom4C
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) March 26, 2024
Missouri AFL-CIO:
Here is a list of union-made in America treats to fill an Easter basket and your holiday dinner table.
📝 Great list here: https://t.co/aUjWUz3AgD pic.twitter.com/H9yhRWSoWK
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) March 20, 2024
Montana State AFL-CIO:
Read the full article: https://t.co/GtPOuc6Mhs #mtpol #mtnews #UnionStrong #mtlabor #mtworkers pic.twitter.com/v1Km0tAfq9
— Montana AFL-CIO (@MTaflcio) March 18, 2024
Nevada State AFL-CIO:
Unloading Easter dinners for our affiliates & the community this morning at @ULAN_LV pic.twitter.com/hSZBLowM14
— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) March 26, 2024
New Hampshire AFL-CIO:
Our @NHAFLCIO @PresBrackett testifying against ANOTHER “Right-to-Work” bill. This time, it is SB 516-FN, in the @TheNHSenate Commerce Committee.
Keep the state out of the business of private businesses. “Right-to-Work” is STILL WRONG for NH#NHPolitics #NHLabor #Solidarity pic.twitter.com/QzphaZbpDy
— New Hampshire AFL-CIO (@NHAFLCIO) March 19, 2024
New York State AFL-CIO:
The budget deadline is almost here, which means it's more important than ever for the Governor and legislature to hear our support for fixing Tier 6. Call now to ask them to fix Tier 6 in the State Budget to help recruit and retain public workers: https://t.co/tqaitIgv76
— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) March 27, 2024
North Carolina State AFL-CIO:
NC Labor Movement Welcomes President Biden and Vice President Harris to Raleigh https://t.co/pAWTbzp0Sk #1u #ncpol
— NC State AFL-CIO // #CountMeIn (@NCStateAFLCIO) March 26, 2024
North Dakota AFL-CIO:
Congratulations! Grand Forks Worker Power! https://t.co/Ztth7pUctc
— North Dakota AFL-CIO (@NDAFLCIO) March 26, 2024
Ohio AFL-CIO:
Today, we honor the 154 daughters, mothers and sisters who lost their life simply by going to work. We will continue to mourn the dead and fight like hell for the living. #triangleshirtwaistfactory pic.twitter.com/96OQNs2Jkj
— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) March 25, 2024
Oregon AFL-CIO:
Happening this week! Join us for a discussion with author Anne Broyles. Anne will be talking about her beautifully illustrated picture book, “I’m Gonna Paint: Ralph Fasanella, Artist of the People.”https://t.co/592kILzmHx
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) March 26, 2024
Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:
Members of Local 274 held a picket last week outside the Wells Fargo Center demanding a standard minimum wage and health benefits for the hundreds of Aramark employees at Wells Fargo Center, Lincoln Financial Field, and Citizens Bank Park.https://t.co/kjd21fS4DF
— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) March 27, 2024
Rhode Island AFL-CIO:
Excellent feature of @UA_Local_51 apprentice and leader with @ri_trades Women's Council, Devyn Maher.
We support any efforts to boost the number of women in the building & construction trades, one of the only sectors that can guarantee pay equity ✊🍞🌹https://t.co/Th6X0q0R47
— Rhode Island AFL-CIO (@riaflcio) March 26, 2024
Tennessee AFL-CIO Labor Council:
"Tennessee Republicans favor Republican @GovBillLee's $140 million proposal for universal school vouchers. But a budget deficit has some GOP members questioning increased public school funding meant to sweeten the deal and dampen opposition..." #TNLeg #1u https://t.co/bU1dbaRhOg
— Tennessee AFL-CIO (@tnaflcio) March 26, 2024
Texas AFL-CIO:
🚨 Calling all union organizers 🚨
The Texas AFL-CIO is proud to partner with the @gcaflcio and the @AFLCIO Organizing Institute (OI) to bring a state-of-the-art organizing training opportunity to Houston, Texas!
Register now: https://t.co/DbaDS4nIzU pic.twitter.com/iwBYpZs6LW
— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) March 25, 2024
West Virginia AFL-CIO:
Catch WV AFL-CIO President Josh Sword on Inside WV Politics with Mark Curtis this weekend (see times and channels below 👇). #wvpol pic.twitter.com/B6k1eqwylw
— West Virginia AFLCIO (@WestVirginiaAFL) March 23, 2024
Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
Wisconsin utilities pledge to use union labor for clean energy construction. https://t.co/w2sjHdHl93 via @journalsentinel
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) March 26, 2024
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 03/27/2024 - 10:57Women's History Month Profiles: Jessica Ackler
This year, for Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Jessica Ackler of the Heat and Frost Insulators (HFIU).
Jessica Ackler, a 16-year member of HFIU Local 14, embodies the spirit of resilience and service as a U.S. Army veteran, a devoted mother of three and a trailblazer in her union. Both of her grandfathers and her father were insulators and Ackler carries on the family legacy with pride and dedication. Her marriage to a fellow insulator reflects a shared commitment to hard work and strong union ethics. Ackler's unwavering determination, coupled with her passion for empowering women in traditionally male-dominated industries, serves as a beacon of inspiration and advocacy not only for her fellow union members, but for women everywhere.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 03/27/2024 - 10:19Tags: Women's History Month
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Medical School Residents at Western Michigan University Vote to Unionize
Working people across the United States have stepped 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.
Residents at Western Michigan University’s Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine voted to unionize with the American Federation of Teachers (AFT). Over 90% of residents voted for the union. The primary concerns the workers are seeking to address are safety conditions and compensation.
“We essentially sign a contract before we even know where we’re going just by entering the match system, saying we’re going to work at a place for 3 to 5 years. And we can’t leave our job once we get there if we’re not satisfied with the conditions or the pay. We don’t really have much of an ability to negotiate,” said resident physician in psychiatry Jamil Khondker.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 03/27/2024 - 10:17Women's History Month Profiles: Addie Jewell Britt
For Women's History Month, BCTGM member Addie Britt talks about how joining the labor movement has improved her life.
Watch this video to hear her story:
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 03/26/2024 - 15:23Tags: Women's History Month
Women's History Month Profiles: Blayne Joseph
This year, for Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Blayne Joseph of the Laborers (LIUNA).
Balancing a Laborers apprenticeship with caring for her children, Blayne Joseph graduated top of her class in pipeline training and became the first female stringing foreman on the Alaska North Slope. She is a true trailblazer, breaking barriers and promoting gender equality in traditionally male-dominated professions.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 03/26/2024 - 10:28Tags: Women's History Month
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Florida Paramedics Win Never Quit Awards for Rescuing Tornado Victims
Working people across the United States have stepped 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.
AFSCME members Heath Schmidt and Paul Tucker were in the Florida Panhandle on Jan. 9. The two paramedics, who work for UF Health ShandsCair in Gainesville, were off-duty and had traveled to the Panama City area, some 200 miles away from home, on union business.
It was 5 o’clock in the morning when their cell phones went off announcing a tornado warning. Soon the electricity went out. Then Tucker’s cell phone rang—it was one of their co-workers back in Gainesville.
“He’d heard that we were in the Panhandle area, and he told us that his son was in a campsite where a tornado had gone through and now he was trapped under the roof of his cabin, and he couldn’t get help,” Tucker said. “It turned out his son was only five miles away. I told him we would head there.”
Tucker and Schmidt knew that what they were about to do was risky because the storms were still coming.
“We knew we could get ourselves into a bad situation,” Schmidt said. “When you’re working with your department and you need assistance, you always know there’s someone coming behind you. But in this case, we were on our own.”
As they drove out there, “There were power lines all over the ground, and we came across a washed-out bridge,” Tucker recalled. “What we walked into was mind-blowing: buildings collapsed, RVs flipped over. It looked like a war zone.”
They arrived at the campsite as their colleague’s son was being loaded for transport to a hospital—he had some pretty bad lacerations to his legs, Tucker said. Then he and Schmidt talked to the first responders who had done a primary search of the area.
“Paul and I decided to do a secondary search, and we ended up finding two people who were injured inside RVs that had rolled over from the tornado,” Schmidt said. “They were able to holler back and say they were injured. And we were able to assist them.”
For their service to their community, Schmidt and Tucker, who are vice president and president, respectively, of Local 260 (AFSCME Florida), are winners of our union’s Never Quit Service Award, which recognizes public service workers who go above and beyond the call of duty to make their communities better.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 03/26/2024 - 10:08Women's History Month Profiles: Judy Beard
This year, for Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Judy Beard of the American Postal Workers Union (APWU).
Judy Beard is a founding member of the Coalition of Labor Union Women (CLUW) and she currently serves as the organization's treasurer. She is the director of the political department of APWU. She is also a founding member of APWU's women's committee, Post Office Women for Equal Rights (POWER). She teaches fiduciary responsibilities for both CLUW and women's programs around the country.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 03/25/2024 - 10:13Tags: Women's History Month
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Celebrating CLUW's 50th Anniversary
Working people across the United States have stepped 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.
It's CLUW's 50th anniversary! Founded March 24, 1974, the Coalition of Labor Union Women is America's only national organization for union women.
Watch this video to learn more:
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 03/25/2024 - 10:02Women's History Month Profiles: Teresa D'Asaro
This year, for Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Teresa D'Asaro of the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW).
Teresa D’Asaro is a fourth-generation union member and recent retiree from UFCW Local 99. D'Asaro started in the labor movement in 1994, working at a Smith’s grocery store. After becoming a shop steward, D'Asaro was recruited to work for her union as a special project union representative signing up new members to join Local 99. In 1997, she was hired as a union representative and, over 27 years, she worked as a field coordinator, field director and community outreach director. Following her retirement in 2023, D'Asaro has continued to be a champion for working Arizonans through her role on the board of the UFCW Women’s Network and as co-chair of the Maricopa Area Labor Federation.
Kenneth Quinnell Sun, 03/24/2024 - 09:57Tags: Women's History Month
Women's History Month Profiles: Alana Schaeffer
This year, for Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Alana Schaeffer of the United Association of Union Plumbers and Pipefitters (UA).
In 2020, UA Local 788 member Alana Schaeffer of Kittery, Maine, became the first woman elected president of the Metal Trades Council, an association of a dozen unions representing 3,000 employees across 10 trades at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. She and her members are currently working on passing state legislation to allow federal employees to qualify for state-backed, no-interest loans when they are furloughed or forced to work without pay during a federal government shutdown.
Kenneth Quinnell Sat, 03/23/2024 - 09:57Tags: Women's History Month
When Workers Organize and Fight It Pays Off: 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.
Georgia Republicans Pass Bill Punishing Union-Friendly Employers: “Liz Shuler, the president of the AFL-CIO labor federation, took to X on Wednesday to call the bill ‘appalling,’ saying that it ‘attacks the fundamental freedoms’ of both workers and employers. She also said that it violates ‘long-held precedent’ under the National Labor Relations Act.”
Lawmakers Propose a New Federal Office to Regulate Workplace Surveillance Tech: “A pair of House Democrats have introduced legislation that would require employers to be more transparent about their use of surveillance technologies to monitor their workers. The bill, known as the Stop Spying Bosses Act, was introduced on March 15 by Reps. Chris Deluzio, D-Pa., and Suzanne Bonamici, D-Ore., and would ‘prohibit, or require disclosure of, the surveillance, monitoring and collection of certain worker data by employers.’ The legislation has been endorsed by several worker advocacy organizations and unions, including the Communications Workers of America and the AFL-CIO.”
New Wage Data Shows When Workers Organize and Fight 'It Pays Off—Literally': “A new analysis shows that unionized workers across the United States secured historic wage increases under contracts negotiated last year, further demonstrating the power of collective bargaining. According to Bloomberg Law, 2023 union contracts ‘gave workers an average first-year wage increase of 6.6%’—the highest raise since at least 1988. ‘With signing bonuses and other lump-sum payments added to the calculations,’ the outlet added, ‘2023's average first-year wage increase was 7.3%, also a record high, according to Bloomberg Law's latest Quarterly Union Wage Data report.’ The AFL-CIO, the largest federation of unions in the U.S., highlighted the findings on social media Thursday, writing, ‘When we fight together, it pays off—literally.’”
EPA Is Banning the Import and Use of Asbestos: “In a separate release, AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler said the rule ‘will undoubtedly save lives and prevent countless exposures that endanger working families.’ Shuler added: ‘This rule is a landmark protection for workers, banning and phasing out all current uses and imports of chrysotile asbestos, and eliminating these exposures in workplaces and throughout the supply chain.’ EPA published a proposed rule to ban the use of chrysotile asbestos in April 2022.”
Biden Wins United Steelworkers Union Endorsement After Opposing U.S. Steel Sale to Nippon: “Less than a week after President Joe Biden came out in opposition of the planned sale of U.S. Steel to Japanese-based Nippon Steel Corporation, the company’s union has endorsed his 2024 reelection bid. ‘With his track record of supporting working people, we're eager for his administration's continued progress on our core issues,’ the union announced in a Tweet Wednesday. The United Steelworkers union, which also backed Biden in 2020, represents 850,000 workers in steel mills, manufacturing plants, mines, rubber plants and railyards as well as nursing homes, legal clinics, social agencies, call centers and credit unions, among other sectors.”
There's a Big Wealth Gap Between Union and Nonunion Workers: “There's a massive wealth gap between workers in unions and nonunionized workers, across education levels, finds a new analysis from the liberal think tank Center for American Progress shared first with Axios. Why it matters: Typically, unionized workers earn about 10%-20% more than their nonunion peers, but these wealth gaps are far wider, an indication that the benefits of union membership accrue to workers over time.”
OPM’s Labor-Management Forum Guidance Charts New Ground for Union Policies: “The Office of Personnel Management last week issued new guidance aimed at helping federal agencies reinstitute forums for management and federal employee unions to work collaboratively to solve problems and, for the first time, measure how the initiative affects employee engagement and agency mission fulfillment. Earlier this month, President Biden signed an executive order restoring labor-management partnerships at federal agencies, rescinding a Trump-era edict banning the practice, as well as encouraging agencies to expand the use of registered apprenticeship programs to boost recruitment of young jobseekers into public service.”
Man of Steel: “You’d think it would be hard for Biden to top his full-on embrace of the UAW and their stunningly successful strike against the Big Three automakers. But Biden has just done it by declaring that he opposes the takeover by Japan’s Nippon Steel of U.S. Steel. The U.S. needs to ‘maintain strong American steel companies powered by American steel workers,’ Biden declared, adding: ‘U.S. Steel has been an iconic American steel company for more than a century, and it is vital for it to remain an American steel company that is domestically owned and operated.’”
Boeing Labor Contract Is Opportunity for Overdue Culture Change: “You know a company is in deep trouble when comedians and stock analysts take similar jabs. With almost every day bringing more negative headlines about the quality and airworthiness of its products, Boeing is both a punchline and a cautionary tale. In response, the company has made a series of moves to reassure nervous airline customers, investors and the flying public. Much of it has been deemed too little, too late.”
VW Workers Seek Union Vote at Tennessee Plant for Third Time: “Volkswagen employees in Tennessee who are hoping to join the United Automobile Workers asked a federal agency on Monday to hold an election, a key step toward the union’s longtime goal of organizing nonunion factories across the South. With the union’s backing, Volkswagen workers filed a petition with the National Labor Relations Board asking for a vote on UAW representation, saying that more than 70% of the 4,000 eligible workers at the plant had signed cards supporting the union. ‘Today, we are one step closer to making a good job at Volkswagen into a great career,’ Isaac Meadows, an assembly worker at the plant, said in a statement.”
Auto Workers Are Unionizing at Harvard University: “The United Auto Workers are unionizing at Harvard, or, to be precise, among the prestigious and influential university’s non-tenure-track research and teaching employees. ‘In a miraculous come from behind win we @HAWorkers have our elections in early April!! Totally thrilled to be able to VOTE YES and get to bargaining the first historic contract for HLS clinical workers,’ tweeted law school worker Rebecca Greening, one of the lead organizers of the drive.”
Regional Labor, Energy Leaders Call for Union-Powered Offshore Wind Advancements: “In just over 10 days, this coalition ‘will be closing bids on a massive, 6-gigawatt offshore wind proposal,’ said Patrick Crowley, secretary-treasurer for the Rhode Island AFL-CIO, calling this action ‘a massive step forward’ in a national initiative to create 30 gigawatts of offshore wind by 2030. ‘In southern New England, we were the home of the nation’s first Industrial Revolution,’ Crowley said—a movement that gave rise to rapid mechanical and manufacturing advancements, but at the cost of ‘massive exploitation of workers and the environment.’ With offshore wind, Crowley continued, the northeast now has an opportunity to once again lead the nation, but without these past failures. ‘This time, we’re going to get it right,’ Crowley continued. ‘It’s going to be worker-led and committed to healing the environment.’ Crowley was joined by Michael Sabitoni, general secretary treasurer of the Laborers’ International Union of North America and president of the Rhode Island Building and Construction Trades Council; Liz Shuler, president of the AFL-CIO; and other Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Connecticut officials and workers. The industry has endured some announcements over the past year, with Shuler calling last year ‘challenging…for offshore wind.’”
Kansas City Nurses Kick Off Contract Talks Saying They’re Prepared to Strike: “About 1,000 nurses at the two hospitals are working under a contract that will expire May 31. Their union, National Nurses United (NNU), said 150 nurses left jobs at Research last year, while 89 left Menorah. The union wants HCA to improve nurse retention and schedule more nurses to work each shift. The union said nurses are ‘prepared to make demands for their new agreements that will improve patient care by addressing critical issues with staffing and safety, and services at their hospitals.’”
Hormel Workers Picket Central Iowa Plant After Union Unanimously Rejects First Offer: “Hormel workers in Knoxville displayed their frustration with ongoing contract talks by picketing the plant there Thursday, carrying signs with slogans such as ‘We Keep Hormel Running.’ Negotiations between United Food and Commercial Workers Local 431 and the company will resume next week, said Mark McRoberts, a business agent with the union. If a deal isn’t reached then, McRoberts said, the union is prepared for a strike at the Marion County facility, one of Knoxville's largest employers.”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 03/22/2024 - 10:14Women's History Month Profiles: Cindy Marlow
This year, for Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Cindy Marlow of the United Steelworkers (USW).
Even throughout her battle with cancer, Cindy Marlow continues to volunteer in her community and advocate for workers. Marlow, who has served as president of USW Local 3609, recently joined a group of Women of Steel in hanging scarves throughout the Lincoln Park neighborhood for those in need.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 03/22/2024 - 09:57Tags: Women's History Month
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Nitehawk Cinema Workers in New York Join Union Despite Union-Busting Campaign
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
After notifying management last month of their intention to organize with the International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America (UAW) Local 2179, workers at Nitehawk Cinema’s Prospect Park location in Brooklyn voted in favor of the union last weekend.
Staff at the dine-in theater cited unfair labor practices, unstable pay, harassment and scheduling and safety concerns as core reasons for forming a union. The Nitehawk Workers Union bargaining unit includes full and part-time bartenders, line cooks, food runners, porters and servers. While the Nighthawk owner and management deployed scare tactics, spread misinformation about unions and intimidated staff across departments, workers secured a victory in their election.
“I have seen my co-workers persist and adapt through unimaginable understaffing that continues to overwork and exhaust us,” said Nitehawk lead server Sabrina, in a statement when workers first went public with the campaign. “We deserve safe working conditions and a livable wage reflective of the competitive nature of our job. We have put up with a lack of respect from management for far too long.”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 03/22/2024 - 09:52Tags: Organizing
Women's History Month Profiles: Susie Martinez
This year, for Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Susie Martinez of the Nevada AFL-CIO.
Susie Martinez is the current executive secretary-treasurer of the Nevada State AFL-CIO, a 35-year dues paying union member of Teamsters Local 986, a native Nevadan and a former Nevada Assemblywoman from 2018 to 2022. She is the first Latina to hold the Assembly District 12 position and the executive secretary-treasurer position with the Nevada State AFL-CIO.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 03/21/2024 - 10:28Tags: Women's History Month
