Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Mercury Ballroom Stagehands in Louisville Vote to Form Union
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
On Thursday, stagehands at the Louisville, Kentucky-based Mercury Ballroom voted unanimously to join Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 17.
The unit will include around a dozen staff at the Mercury Ballroom, which is one of the city’s premier venues for live music, performances and other events. Local 17 already represents its counterparts at other major stages throughout the city. This resounding victory marks the third crew at a Live Nation venue to organize in recent months, following successful votes by workers at Denver’s Summit music hall and Marquis Theater earlier this summer.
“This win demonstrates IATSE Local 17’s commitment to representing locations of all sizes,” said Local 17 Business Agent Greg Campbell. “The workers who support these types of clubs are the foundation of the live event music industry. From amphitheaters and clubs to opera houses and Broadway, all entertainment workers deserve the voice and protections that a union brings.”
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 09/17/2024 - 10:02Hispanic Heritage Month Profiles: Omayra Sánchez
Throughout Hispanic Heritage Month, the AFL-CIO will be profiling leaders and activists to spotlight the diverse contributions Hispanics and Latinos have made to the labor movement. Today's profile features Omayra Sánchez of the Office and Professional Employees (OPEIU).
Omayra Sánchez became chief shop steward among food service employees at Eglin Air Force Base shortly after the workers won their first union contract with ITPEU/OPEIU Local 4873 last year.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 09/16/2024 - 10:18Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Oshawa Power Workers Ratify New Union Contract
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Members of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 636 who work at Oshawa Power in Ontario, Canada, ratified a new three-year collective bargaining agreement. The old contract was set to expire in February 2025. The new contract goes into effect Nov. 1 and runs through Nov. 1, 2027. It provides the workers with increases in wages, benefits, premiums and allowances.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 09/16/2024 - 10:02Help Make Air Travel Safe: The Working People Weekly List
Every week, we bring you a roundup of the top news and commentary about issues and events important to working families. Here’s the latest edition of the Working People Weekly List.
Boeing Workers Vote Overwhelmingly to Strike, in Defeat for Troubled Company: “Boeing workers picketed outside the company’s plants in Washington state early Friday morning after voting overwhelmingly to strike. Tens of thousands of machinists voted Thursday to reject a proposed deal between the company and the union that would have significantly boosted pay and benefits even as it fell short of other union demands. Some 96% of members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers District 751 voted in favor of the strike—far more than the two-thirds needed to launch the work stoppage.”
Harris Pushes for Labor Reforms, Union Support: “In an election year, Labor Day kicks off the official campaign season, and Vice President Kamala Harris kicked hers off with a bang. She had rallies in Detroit, Milwaukee and Pittsburgh, all major cities in battleground states. Joined by local elected officials in each place, vice presidential nominee Tim Walz in Milwaukee, and President Biden in Pittsburgh. In Pittsburgh, flanked by AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler, teachers' union leaders Becky Pringle (National Education Association) and Randi Weingarten (American Federation of Teachers), Harris gave a rousing speech that reminded us that we have organized labor to thank for the eight-hour workday, pensions, paid vacations and health care, worker benefits that have now become standard.”
Trump and Harris, with Divided Labor Records, Grapple for Pennsylvania’s Union Voters: “The AFL-CIO, the largest umbrella organization for U.S. unions, gave Harris a lifetime score of 98% on her Senate voting record. Walz got a 93% rating for his votes from the AFL-CIO when he served in the House of Representatives. He belonged to the National Education Association, the nation’s largest labor union, while working as a high school teacher.”
TSA Officers Help Make Air Travel Safe. Workers Deserve Protections from Congress: “As the vice president for the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) Local 777, which represents Transportation Security Officers at airports across Wisconsin and Illinois, I work on behalf of the hundreds of transportation security officers who ensure that our passengers fly safely in and out of airports in those states. We take pride in on our work, and with over six million passengers flying in and out of Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport in 2023 alone, there's a lot of work to take pride in.”
AFL-CIO, Entertainment Unions Unveil Federal Priorities for Nonprofit Artists and Journalists: “The Department for Professional Employees, a trade department of AFL-CIO, the largest labor federation in the U.S., has put forward a slate of new federal policies it hopes can create more sustainable careers in the nonprofit arts and media sectors. The policies, which speak to concerns from nonprofit workers across 12 unions, including Actors’ Equity, SAG-AFTRA, IATSE and more, call for stronger labor protections as part of federal funding received through the National Endowment for the Arts, the National Endowment for the Humanities and the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, gaining seats on federal grantmaking councils for working professionals and updating federal grants in these areas, so that the funds are not limited to just one production or project.”
White House Calls for Stronger Labor Standards Across Federal Agencies: “President Joe Biden signed an executive order Sept. 6 calling on federal agencies to adopt a series of ‘high-road labor standards,’ according to an announcement from the White House, continuing the administration’s push toward expanding the federal workforce while pushing certain standards. The announcement calls the move the ‘first in history to specify a clear list of labor standards that all Federal agencies should look to prioritize.’”
Tim Walz Is a Dream Pick for the Labor Movement: “Walz has a strong Labor record to match. In a July 29 letter urging Harris to choose Walz, 26 Minnesota Labor leaders noted that Walz enacted paid family and medical leave for all families, provided unemployment insurance to hourly school workers, expanded the collective bargaining rights of Minnesotans, provided free school meals to every Minnesota student, appointed a Labor lawyer to lead the state Department of Labor and Industry, signed a tough law against wage theft by corporations and developers, and made it illegal for employers to force working people to attend anti-union meetings. The centerpiece of Walz’s Labor policy is… a law he signed in May 2023 that the news website Minnesota Reformer described as potentially ‘the most significant worker protection bill in state history.’”
Approval of Labor Unions Nears Record High: Gallup: “Seven in 10 Americans say they approve of labor unions, just shy of the record-high approval rating for organized labor, according to a new Gallup poll. The survey, released Monday, found 70% of Americans approve of labor unions, while 23% disapprove and 7% have no opinion. This is 1 point shy of the 71% reading in 2022, which marked the highest approval rating since 1965.”
A Campaign Kickoff, an Ode to Labor: “In an election year, Labor Day kicks off the official campaign season, and Vice President Kamala Harris kicked hers off with a bang. She had rallies in Detroit, Milwaukee, and Pittsburgh, all major cities in battleground states. She was joined by local elected officials in each place, Vice Presidential nominee Tim Walz in Milwaukee, and President Biden in Pittsburgh. In Pittsburgh, flanked by AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler, teachers’ union leaders Becky Pringle (National Education Association) and Randi Weingarten (American Federation of Teachers), Harris gave a rousing speech that reminded us we have organized labor to thank for the 8-hour workday, pensions, paid vacations and health care, worker benefits that have now become standard. Those benefits didn’t come without a fight, nor did the establishment of Labor Day.”
Walkout for Washington: “On Tuesday, Sept. 10, at 12 p.m. PT, AFSCME Council 28/WFSE-represented public service workers at state agencies, community colleges and four-year universities will Walkout for Washington to demand livable wages, safe staffing levels, and respect for the Washingtonians that depend on their services. Public workers organized in other unions are also joining these walkouts in a show of solidarity.”
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 09/12/2024 - 11:05Service & Solidarity Action: 9/11 Responder and Survivor Health Funding
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
In the wake of the attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, tens of thousands of emergency workers, construction workers and others rushed to the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and the crash site in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, to assist in rescue and recovery operations.
Those near ground zero were exposed to a toxic mix of dust and fumes from the collapse of the twin towers and the fires that lingered. Twenty-three years later, many of these individuals are suffering from serious cancers, respiratory diseases and other serious health problems.
We made a promise to provide medical care and take care of those who became ill because of that tragic day in American history. Unions led the fight to create the World Trade Center (WTC) Health Program, and now we need to act again.
The WTC Health Program is once again facing a budget shortfall that will start to impact care and lead to budget cuts in 2028. The shortfall would occur just as we expect more people to need the program’s care due to an increasing number of 9/11 cancers.
Survivors of 9/11 live in every single state and in 434 of 435 U.S. congressional districts. Every member of Congress should support legislation to fully fund this program.
We hold in our hearts the memory of the flight crews of the four hijacked jetliners; the heroic firefighters, police officers, and other first responders who put themselves in harm’s way; and everyone we lost on that terrible day. We also remember the construction workers who worked tirelessly to move the wreckage and reclaim bodies, and the health care workers who saved so many lives. Their sacrifice and solidarity will never be forgotten.
We cannot leave behind anyone still suffering today.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 09/12/2024 - 10:50Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Eos Workers Vote to Join USW
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Some 160 workers at Eos Energy Enterprises in Pittsburgh voted to join the United Steelworkers (USW) last week to ensure they have a voice in shaping the future of their role in the rapidly expanding clean energy sector.
Workers at the zinc battery company manufacture batteries used to store electricity generated from renewable sources like solar and wind energy. The vote comes right as Eos is eligible for billions of dollars in clean energy federal investments from legislation like the Inflation Reduction Act. UAW members fought back against attempts to undermine their right to a free and fair union election, demanding that corporations receiving taxpayer money should respect the rights of their workforce. Their victory represents a powerful milestone in ensuring this emergent sector has high standards for labor rights.
“We’re proud to be contributing to our nation’s energy future, but for that future to succeed, we need to earn fair wages and be treated with respect on the job,” said Dante Williams, an assembly operator at Eos. “Unionizing puts our future into our own hands, and now we’re looking forward to sitting down and bargaining a fair contract.”
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 09/11/2024 - 12:25Labor Votes Debate Bingo
This election is crucial for working people. It’s about protecting our future: strong unions, better wages, affordable health care and a secure retirement. It’s about whether we’re going to build things in America and create millions of good union jobs doing it. It’s about standing up for our fundamental freedoms, including the freedom to join a union.
That’s Vice President Kamala Harris’ vision, and it’s why the labor movement is leading the way to mobilize millions of voters across the country to elect Kamala Harris and Tim Walz.
We’ll be following the #ABCDebate tonight at 9 p.m. ET and reacting in real time. And at our own union watch parties and in homes across the country, we’ll also be playing Labor Votes Bingo as a fun way to track what both candidates are saying.
Try your luck by downloading a Labor Votes Bingo card.
Want to play Labor Votes Bingo with friends? Download our five-pack of bingo cards here.
Follow the AFL-CIO and President Liz Shuler on X/Twitter for live updates, and share your debate and bingo photos with us! The AFL-CIO will be posting reactions on Threads, Instagram and Facebook.
And visit our BetterInAUnion.org website for all the facts on Vice President Harris and former President Trump’s records of working for working people, what the Trump Project 2025 Agenda would mean for working families and unions, and ways that you can take action between now and Election Day.
Thanks for tuning in this evening ahead of this critical election for working people!
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 09/10/2024 - 16:02Never Forget: What Working People Are Doing This Week
Welcome to our regular feature, a look at what the various AFL-CIO unions and other working family organizations are doing across the country and beyond. The labor movement is big and active—here's a look at the broad range of activities we're engaged in this week.
Actors' Equity:
Rest in Peace, James Earl Jones.
Through countless iconic roles on stage and on screen, he was an inspiration to so many over his 60-year career. In addition to his EGOT, Jones was awarded Equity's Paul Robeson Award in 2011.
He will be missed.https://t.co/xyKgf0v61o
— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) September 9, 2024
AFGE:
Our union’s very existence depends on the outcome of the November election.
Find out more about our Election 2024 volunteer opportunities ⬇https://t.co/DIZXFZ9oaI
— AFGE (@AFGENational) September 6, 2024
AFSCME:
Brittney Kilfeather, a social worker and member of AFSCME Local 2663 (Council 4) in Connecticut, won our union’s Never Quit Service Award for her extraordinary dedication to her clients. https://t.co/qnQtP1GxU9
— AFSCME (@AFSCME) September 9, 2024
Alliance for Retired Americans:
Remember as we head into tomorrow's debate: Republican plans may have different names but they all have the same goal -- to privatize Medicare and/or cut Social Security. https://t.co/2zrNwyOPcj
— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) September 9, 2024
Amalgamated Transit Union:
John Costa, the International President of the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU), which boasts a membership of 200,000, emphatically stated, “Vice President Harris is without question the best candidate to beat Donald Trump… We must protect our job security, healthcare,…
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) September 10, 2024
American Federation of Teachers:
If you're an AFT member and concerned about the impact of gun violence on higher education, join us Sept 30 for a discussion with the @WhiteHouse and @usedgov. https://t.co/O6CiI5fzYs
— AFT (@AFTunion) September 10, 2024
American Postal Workers Union:
APWU Members - today we are flooding the lines of Congress to bring justice to our retirees! Call the APWU Legislative Hotline and tell your House representatives to sign the discharge petition, H.Res. 1410, to bring the Social Security Fairness Act directly to a vote. This bill… pic.twitter.com/8HGcp9XLwf
— The American Postal Workers Union - APWU (@APWUnational) September 9, 2024
Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:
The AFA Honor Guard held our annual Remembrance ceremony at the 9/11 Pentagon Memorial to honor Flight 77. We were joined by our @APFAunity and @unionveterans siblings. We will #NeverForget. pic.twitter.com/1HA1nq4cZQ
— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) September 10, 2024
Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers:
ORGANIZING ALERT: On August 27th, 22 maintenance unit workers employed at Hearthside Food Solutions in Michigan City, Ind. filed for an election to be represented by the BCTGM. https://t.co/t5qeOQghBY
— BCTGM International (@BCTGM) September 4, 2024
Boilermakers:
Tomorrow, many will remember where we were and what we were doing 23 years ago. Local 5 #Boilermaker Frank Kotnik remembers. Read about Brother Kotnik's work as a Blacksmith in New York City, and what he saw on that fateful September day. https://t.co/Qht2jNbGxt pic.twitter.com/nEdBvWqzPk
— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) September 10, 2024
Bricklayers:
We agree with the next President @KamalaHarris - When unions are strong, America is strong! ✊
Like and Share if you agree!#UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/cBof7TvIFG
— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) September 10, 2024
Communications Workers of America:
https://t.co/MiacvfG1dQ pic.twitter.com/ud4CbX9Jpn
— CWA (@CWAUnion) September 10, 2024
Department for Professional Employees:
Today, with our 12 AEMI affiliates we've launched the Reimagining Federal Support for the Arts and Public Media policy agenda, which advocates for policies to ensure professionals can have sustainable careers in the nonprofit arts & public media sector. https://t.co/VybNpJv7Hk
— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) September 10, 2024
Electrical Workers:
It's true and working people are seeing the results. https://t.co/lamELK5IzB https://t.co/7z2gazYimR
— IBEW (@IBEW) September 9, 2024
Heat and Frost Insulators:
Gear up for U.S. Election Day! 🇺🇸
🗳️ Register to Vote
✅ Check Registration
🏠 Update Address
✍️ Update Name
➡️ Check your registration today: https://t.co/YyeZccjAsR #InsulatorsUnion #Insulators #InsulatorPride #voterregistration #electionday pic.twitter.com/HoQ4xTz4nX
— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) September 10, 2024
International Labor Communications Association:
Our final workshop of the day is all about building union websites to engage, inform, and empower our members, presented by our friends from @CanLabourMedia! pic.twitter.com/5dITQJwpui
— International Labor Communications Association (@ILCAonline) September 6, 2024
Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:
September 17 is #NationalVoterRegistrationDay! Help celebrate democracy by getting every eligible American registered & #VoteReady for 2024! #Empower24 https://t.co/YgZKZMpEyP pic.twitter.com/BhbIdAxOQ1
— LCLAA (@LCLAA) September 10, 2024
Labor Heritage Foundation:
📚 LISTEN NOW! “Shift Happens: The History of Labor in the United States” 👧🧒https://t.co/W1Caz5Yx4X @JAlbertMann @FoundationWals #LaborRadioPod #History #WorkingClass #ClassStruggle @GeorgetownKILWP #LaborHistory @AFLCIO @StrikeHistory #LaborHistory @wrkclasshistory pic.twitter.com/2pQSg9CkLb
— Labor Heritage (@LaborHeritage1) September 8, 2024
Laborers:
Twenty-three years after the September 11 attacks, we mourn and honor those lost in that cowardly assault on our nation. We will #NeverForget pic.twitter.com/dlgy1GIg4u
— LIUNA (@LIUNA) September 11, 2024
Machinists:
IAM National Legislative & Political Director Hasan Solomon represented the IAM at today’s National Black Labor Leaders Breakfast hosted by @CBTU72 and @CBCInstitute. The breakfast addressed important discussions on Black wealth, Labor rights, and skills training to empower… pic.twitter.com/8ksAw6pSo3
— Machinists Union (@MachinistsUnion) September 11, 2024
Metal Trades Department:
Harris campaign website now outlines policy platform, including support for the PRO Act. The page lists Harris’s economic, immigration and foreign policy agendas, contrasting each section with the far-right Project 2025 policy proposal. https://t.co/RNOIhHeMWb
— Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) September 10, 2024
Mine Workers:
Matewan is one of the best labor movies in history and James Earl Jones is a reason why. https://t.co/9AR2YjpZ92
— United Mine Workers (@MineWorkers) September 10, 2024
Musical Artists:
San Francisco Symphony Chorus Director Emeritus Vance Y. George sent a message to Symphony CEO and SFS Board Officers, expressing his concern about the drastic proposed Chorus budget cuts: https://t.co/kebVYjoOyc pic.twitter.com/PQTEOGCppf
— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) September 10, 2024
National Air Traffic Controllers Association:
Today marks 23 years since the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. We remember those who lost their lives and commend the aviation safety professionals that were on duty that day for their bravery and hard work. https://t.co/WuJ6CtIEHb pic.twitter.com/kDs1FCuf7q
— NATCA (@NATCA) September 11, 2024
National Association of Letter Carriers:
NALC honors and remembers the victims of the terror attacks that took place on Sept. 11, 2001. In recognition of their heroism, we salute the first responders and individuals who bravely jumped into action to help others that day and throughout the recovery efforts that followed. pic.twitter.com/VHPWf6t23G
— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) September 11, 2024
National Domestic Workers Alliance:
.@aijenpoo: We want to make childcare more affordable and accessible and ensure that families don't have to pay more than 7% of their income on childcare. Right now, in every state, people are paying more for childcare than housing. https://t.co/oBFFdkKVqO
— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) September 9, 2024
National Nurses United:
Minnesota nurses are fired up at tonight’s @mnnurses #NursesForKamala debate watch party! 🔥 #Debate2024 pic.twitter.com/B2BzRQADUt
— NationalNursesUnited (@NationalNurses) September 11, 2024
NFL Players Association:
It matters where you play.
Despite 92% of surveyed players calling for high-quality grass, over half the league continues to use artificial fields.
Players: check the playing surface at every NFL stadium so you know what you’re facing when you go to work each week. pic.twitter.com/EUSKDB5jWC
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) September 7, 2024
North America's Building Trades Unions:
September is Suicide Prevention Month. For resources visit: https://t.co/b7Bfvv5hwu pic.twitter.com/yIDPFtr6o2
— The Building Trades (@NABTU) September 9, 2024
Office and Professional Employees:
We are proud to launch the AEMI Reimagining Federal Support for the Arts and Public Media policy agenda with our siblings @DPEaflcio & advocate for policies to ensure professionals can have sustainable careers in the nonprofit arts and public media sector. https://t.co/GjD1aoqmpd
— OPEIU | #UnionStrong (@OPEIU) September 10, 2024
Painters and Allied Trades:
Unions like ours are central to our communities and how they live!
We’d like to spotlight DC50 members who volunteered their time to paint the exterior and interior of the Lahaina Aquatic Center located in Maui, Hawaii, after it was destroyed during the 2023 wildfires. pic.twitter.com/xwN2NkafKJ
— IUPAT (@GoIUPAT) September 11, 2024
Plasterers and Cement Masons:
Our democracy depends on ordinary people who make sure every election runs smoothly & everyone's vote is counted. You can make sure we have safe, fair, efficient elections for all voters. Step up & become a poll worker for the next election today!https://t.co/RqaE1geilg
— OPCMIA International (@opcmiaintl) September 8, 2024
Pride At Work:
What does it mean to you to have Inclusive contract language? #union #solidarity #collectivebargaining pic.twitter.com/1L83VIbMAE
— Pride at Work (@PrideatWork) September 10, 2024
Professional Aviation Safety Specialists:
On 9/11/01 terrorists used 4 planes as weapons—deliberately crashing World Trade Center, Pentagon, a field in Penn. A dark day for America but aviation's finest hour. PASS-represented workers at @FAANews helped guide over 4,500 planes to safe landings. #NeverForget #September11 pic.twitter.com/ex3VDvfEVy
— PASS (@PASSNational) September 11, 2024
Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:
On the anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, we honor and remember all the lives lost – including our brave first responders, many of whom were part of our NYC union family. We will #NeverForget! pic.twitter.com/7S6ZlJUqCw
— RWDSU (@RWDSU) September 11, 2024
Roofers and Waterproofers:
How do we elect people who care about workers and our families? By showing up on Election Day.
Register to vote here. It takes less than two minutes on average. If you want to check your registration status, you can do so here. https://t.co/HXCUXIqCDc
— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) September 10, 2024
SAG-AFTRA:
Both Houses in the CA Legislature adopted bill #AB2602, ensuring proper representation and informed consent prior to licensing a performer’s digital voice & likeness. This fight goes hand-in-hand with our #VideoGameStrike 🎮🤝 Share and tag Governor @GavinNewsom to sign AB 2602! pic.twitter.com/0xu6u5aNwz
— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) September 11, 2024
Solidarity Center:
Union activism can be felt far beyond the workplace. Unions & their members help shape local & national policies that make communities stronger & create more democratic societies.#WorkerRights #Solidarity #LaborMovement #1u pic.twitter.com/qYHgkLmvN1
— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) September 9, 2024
The NewsGuild-CWA:
🚨 We’re on strike at @law360union! 🚨 @Law360 laid off 10% of our Guild-represented staff and violated U.S. labor law — right after LexisNexis boasted record revenue. We’re holding power to account and on the picket line today!✊
Sign the pledge: https://t.co/qDzhhj7vWN pic.twitter.com/GE0iYt4pDK
— NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) September 10, 2024
Theatrical Stage Employees:
Today, we remember our kin who worked tirelessly to keep Ground Zero bright. https://t.co/kbcM2OLXBl pic.twitter.com/ROj5pL4PtH
— IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) September 11, 2024
Transport Workers Union:
The TWU Honors 9/11 Heroes pic.twitter.com/FIWshknN9N
— TWU (@transportworker) September 11, 2024
Transportation Trades Department:
Congratulations to @IAFFPresident Ed Kelly and Secretary-Treasurer Frank Líma on getting reelected last week at the 57th @IAFFofficial Convention. Firefighters and IAFF members protect the public every single day, and together we'll fight to protect their rights as workers. https://t.co/GVRUXjMesk
— TTD | America's Transportation Unions (@TTDAFLCIO) September 9, 2024
UAW:
Why are prices sky high? Because corporations are jacking up prices. And why do they do it? Corporate greed.
If we're going to fix the cost-of-living crisis, we're going to have to take on Wall Street and corporate America head on.@KamalaHarris is up to the task. pic.twitter.com/iK6ozu3cJr
— UAW (@UAW) September 9, 2024
Union Veterans Council:
With over 1 million union veterans in our ranks, we will ensure our voices are heard.
This isn’t about politics—it's about standing against anyone who believes they're above our nation's core values.
As our oath states, we will “support and defend the Constitution.” https://t.co/CKVdaA2gzK
— Union Veterans Council🪖✊ (@unionveterans) August 30, 2024
UNITE HERE:
“Workers aren’t making enough to support their families. Many can no longer afford to live in the cities that they welcome guests to, and painful workloads are breaking their bodies." - @GwenMillsUH https://t.co/d5RiWXyYD5
— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) September 10, 2024
United Food and Commercial Workers:
Michigan Planned Parenthood said “Union YES!”
Medical assistants at the Planned Parenthood health center in Livonia, Michigan, recently became the first Planned Parenthood unit to be represented by UFCW Local 876.
Congratulations!
➡️ https://t.co/OwDhtKw59d pic.twitter.com/rUWYrrCkbB
— UFCW (@UFCW) September 6, 2024
United Steelworkers:
Today, we honor the bravery, resilience, and unity that define us as a nation. On this Patriot’s Day, we pay tribute to the lives forever changed by September 11, 2001. pic.twitter.com/cezaYRjHSR
— United Steelworkers #EverybodysUnion (@steelworkers) September 11, 2024
Utility Workers:
Twenty-three years ago today, heroes including many utility workers rushed towards danger at ground zero. Please contact Congress to make sure that survivors and first responders receive the healthcare that they deserve. https://t.co/wlAHiLl90H pic.twitter.com/FavR71B0zH
— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) September 11, 2024
Working America:
Healthcare is way too expensive – that’s what millions of working people like LaRonda are dealing with in neighborhoods across the country. It’s time to make health care cheaper for everyone, regardless of income.
#HealthCare #WorkingAmerica pic.twitter.com/tyA6N9JjUM
— Working America (@WorkingAmerica) September 9, 2024
Writers Guild of America East:
Writing is writing, whether it’s for animation or live-action. We’re fighting for a @PBS contract that gives animation writers the union coverage they deserve and for AI protections, paid parental leave and higher streaming residuals for ALL PBS writers. #PBSWritersUnited #1u pic.twitter.com/8viYaySryi
— Writers Guild of America East (@WGAEast) September 9, 2024
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 09/10/2024 - 12:32Service & 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 - 10:15
