Fighting for a Fair and Just Contract: What Working People Are Doing This Week
Welcome to our regular feature, a look at what the various AFL-CIO unions and other working family organizations are doing across the country and beyond. The labor movement is big and active—here's a look at the broad range of activities we're engaged in this week.
Actors' Equity:
Sign up to march and/or have a meal with your fellow union members from Equity, SAG-AFTRA and AGMA! Visit the member portal to register. https://t.co/CFWhbcjJDj pic.twitter.com/0JKxuoUgja
— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) August 24, 2024
AFGE:
ICYMI: @AFGEPrezKelley delivering the opening invocation for tonight’s @DemConvention events. pic.twitter.com/ClEzaekKv5
— AFGE (@AFGENational) August 22, 2024
AFSCME:
In a video that was shown at the Democratic National Convention, AFSCME member Kelli Gray described how the Biden-Harris administration helped lift the weight of her crushing student loan debt. https://t.co/8EXdAnXLDX
— AFSCME (@AFSCME) August 27, 2024
Alliance for Retired Americans:
Let's be clear: For those worried about their retirement security, a second term for Donald Trump would be devastating. We need to elect candidates who will protect and expand Social Security and Medicare -- not cut them. https://t.co/qpBMawCBGR pic.twitter.com/VI6E93H887
— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) August 27, 2024
Amalgamated Transit Union:
We support our Local 1724 HandyDART members in their fight for the fair and just contract they deserve. #ATUStrongerTogether pic.twitter.com/Cn87HuUNR6
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) August 28, 2024
American Federation of Teachers:
Honor Emmett Till's legacy and learn more with these resources from @ShareMyLesson: https://t.co/6QKUDni1wz https://t.co/tHVJIKc2iF
— AFT (@AFTunion) August 28, 2024
American Postal Workers Union:
Clerk Craft Director Lamont Brooks summarizes the Clerk Conference at the APWU Biennial Convention, including delegate-approved changes to the national constitution and bylaws that will directly affect Clerk Division’s representation going forward. https://t.co/Qf1XIDoDei
— The American Postal Workers Union - APWU (@APWUnational) August 28, 2024
Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:
Our hearts are with Delta Tech Op workers and their families affected by the tragic incident in Atlanta where two workers lost their lives and others were injured earlier today.
AFA EAP is always available at 800-424-2406. https://t.co/mgC2OZlKDP
— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) August 27, 2024
Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers:
No one in government fought as hard as @SenSherrodBrown did for our pensions. https://t.co/RRMETZS2rA
— BCTGM International (@BCTGM) August 21, 2024
Boilermakers:
Breaking news: The International Executive Council has elected Clint Penny as International Secretary-Treasurer: https://t.co/VqWpTjwvZ6 pic.twitter.com/qz1Y1hGaHo
— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) August 27, 2024
Bricklayers:
Our President Tim Driscoll had the honor of joining @MassGovernor Maura Healey and others in addressing the @IAFFofficial at their 57th convention.
The conversation surrounded union solidarity and the importance of political advocacy!
Thanks for the invite! #ItsBetterInAUnion pic.twitter.com/VdzArmYRwq
— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) August 28, 2024
Communications Workers of America:
CWA members at AT&T in the Southeast are still on strike. When we fight, we win!
Video: @PBNewsGuild & @CWA3108 pic.twitter.com/AqHvT6UZC8
— CWA (@CWAUnion) August 26, 2024
Department for Professional Employees:
Historically, private-sector architectural professionals have not been union members. However, interest in unions is growing among architectural professionals and other professionals in design-related occupations. https://t.co/8ohEFS9wZ8
— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) August 27, 2024
Electrical Workers:
#IBEW members were out in full force at the 2024 #DNC to make our voice heard and to support@KamalaHarris and @Tim_Walz pic.twitter.com/5FYGLyNaIx
— IBEW (@IBEW) August 28, 2024
Heat and Frost Insulators:
In The City of Brotherly Love🔔
Next time you’re in Downtown Philly, check out “Pat Eiding Way,” honoring the Philadelphia AFL-CIO President Emeritus & former Local 14 Business Manager.
➡️Read more: https://t.co/xvVYLZqU4T#InsulatorsUnion #Insulators #InsulatorPride #HFIAW pic.twitter.com/QlBEEG3d9D
— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) August 28, 2024
International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers:
IFPTE Members Attend DNC as Delegates and Advance Priorities for Workers, Communities, and All Americanshttps://t.co/juV8uSXHE0
— IFPTE (@IFPTE) August 23, 2024
Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:
Today, we are proud ✊🏽 to join organizations across the country to shed light on the harmful effects of Project 2025 and how it will impact our comunidades. For more information or to get involved, visit https://t.co/tMivLyFh7B#DefendiendoNuestroFuturo #LatinosAgainstProject2025 pic.twitter.com/jjlscjih7O
— LCLAA (@LCLAA) August 27, 2024
Labor Heritage Foundation:
Check out our updated 2024 Labor Day Labor Arts Calendar! Festivities include labor arts events across the country. Got a labor music, film, history, or art event in your community? Let us know at info@laborheritage.org, and we'll add it to our calendar! https://t.co/dwuBAThirZ pic.twitter.com/mwoCsASz05
— Labor Heritage (@LaborHeritage1) August 27, 2024
Laborers:
Our GP and several labor leaders brought the POWER to the #DNC2024 stage last night, uniting behind the Harris-Walz ticket! Their passion and commitment to workers and #unions were electric. This is the momentum we need to secure our future! @DemConvention @VP @Tim_Walz https://t.co/2qH8Xmv03e
— LIUNA (@LIUNA) August 20, 2024
Machinists:
IAM branding is going up at the Hilton Midtown, NYC courtesy of Carpenters Local 157 members!
Union members building a union Convention! ⚙️💪#IAM2024 pic.twitter.com/mwpFa6Titr
— Machinists Union (@MachinistsUnion) August 28, 2024
Mine Workers:
“Betty Jean Hall was a remarkable woman who dedicated her life to advocating for coal miners and championing the rights and opportunities for women in our industry. Her legacy is one of strength..." - Cecil Robertshttps://t.co/97mBMS41A0
— United Mine Workers (@MineWorkers) August 20, 2024
Musical Artists:
Sept 9: Join the AGMA Staging Staff Caucus for a discussion on labor-management conflict resolution w/ experts from Cornell's Scheinman Institute. Open to AGMA Staging Staff members. Details: https://t.co/J2GKA8xWHY pic.twitter.com/hJ0b6Qeyq6
— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) August 27, 2024
National Association of Letter Carriers:
Reno, NV Branch 709 was proud to rally in solidarity with @NRLCA yesterday as letter carriers continue to call for protection from violence & crime while delivering mail in communities across the U.S. Learn more about the Protect Our Letter Carriers Act ➡️ https://t.co/ylwbV47kaq pic.twitter.com/89bWIoZiSj
— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) August 27, 2024
National Day Laborer Organizing Network:
SYRACUSE, NY 🚌❤️: We're here! Join us TODAY on our next #CareCantWait Bus Tour stop to fight for an affordable and accessible care system we all deserve.
RSVP here: https://t.co/7dHlZ5aEf5
— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) August 28, 2024
National Nurses United:
Union nurses in @nynurses, @minurses, @mnnurses, and all across the country are fired up to see nurse values on the ballot this election season!
Join the #NursesforKamala coalition in getting Harris and Walz into the White House! 🗳️ pic.twitter.com/6ZmKotNJ3a
— NationalNursesUnited (@NationalNurses) August 25, 2024
NFL Players Association:
Help us give a warm welcome to our two newest NFLPA Player Directors: Michael Thomas + Scott Wells! Their first experience will be hitting the road for the next six weeks to meet and support all current players. pic.twitter.com/F4Lv2dJEl5
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) August 26, 2024
North America's Building Trades Unions:
Donald Trump is not a friend to unions.
pic.twitter.com/uG90kiiTqe
— The Building Trades (@NABTU) August 27, 2024
Office and Professional Employees:
OPEIU Local 251 represents over 550 workers at Sandia National Labs in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Their union contract expires on September 24, 2024.
Sign a letter in support of their fight for a fair contract! ⬇️⬇️⬇️https://t.co/AstWPFWZUH
— OPEIU | #UnionStrong (@OPEIU) August 22, 2024
Painters and Allied Trades:
As we chart our course for the next five years, we honor a century of progress that has secured democracy, fair wages, and dignity for workers.
Together, we can become an unmatched force in our industry—stronger, inclusive, and empowering at every level. #OneIUPAT pic.twitter.com/DxJnKhgHfC
— IUPAT (@GoIUPAT) August 27, 2024
Plasterers and Cement Masons:
Active & retired union members may be eligible for home financing benefits through the @UnionPlus® Mortgage program, with financing provided by Wells Fargo Home Mortgage. Equal Housing Lender. https://t.co/nXrO69XJC7 pic.twitter.com/xZ9j76bthh
— OPCMIA International (@opcmiaintl) August 26, 2024
Pride At Work:
Being LGBTQIA+ can be an obstacle as a voter who lives in a state that has voter identification laws. Join @prideatwork, @LCLAA, @CLUWNational and @VoteRiders on Tuesday, August 27th at 6:00 PM EDT to learn about the potential impacts.
Register here: https://t.co/phYgZPZ0G6 pic.twitter.com/KWrw6rnTcK
— Pride at Work (@PrideatWork) August 21, 2024
Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:
61 years ago today, @RWDSU joined working people for the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom! RWDSU leaders like Cleve Robinson helped plan the march, and Local 1-S members, pictured here, were among the union workers who traveled to the historic civil rights action! pic.twitter.com/gHQESertCT
— RWDSU (@RWDSU) August 28, 2024
SAG-AFTRA:
“We are thrilled that one of our top legislative priorities, AB 2602 has passed in the State of California. The bill, which protects not only SAG-AFTRA performers but all performers, is a huge step forward. ... 1/2https://t.co/jNF0bRYOef
— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) August 28, 2024
Solidarity Center:
The support from @Culinary226 for striking Evolution Gaming workers in the Republic of Georgia is what true global #solidarity looks like. ✊https://t.co/i1rBZLe1jC@casinosc0m
— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) August 27, 2024
The NewsGuild-CWA:
🚨 More than 3,000 supporters have already given to @ThePUPNews strikers to cover rent, unexpected expenses, groceries and much more.
We're so close to blowing past $800k raised in support of the LONGEST strike in the country! Pitch in here: https://t.co/rSonkCeva7 pic.twitter.com/iGtE8Lyt4B
— NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) August 27, 2024
Theatrical Stage Employees:
On #WomensEqualityDay, we honor the fearless women who fought for the right to vote, paving the way for equality.
This November, let's exercise our right to vote, ensuring that the hard-won victories are preserved, and our voices continue to drive the fight for gender equality. pic.twitter.com/htFpPTu4sq
— IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) August 26, 2024
Transport Workers Union:
— TWU (@transportworker) August 19, 2024
Transportation Trades Department:
WATCH: @TTDAFLCIO President Greg Regan spoke at the @DemConvention last week to highlight the Biden-Harris Administration's investments in America’s working families, transportation and infrastructure. 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/5WrDbl31Sg
— TTD | America's Transportation Unions (@TTDAFLCIO) August 26, 2024
UAW:
Workers at the Detroit-area Webasto plant are standing up to form their union and UAW Local 900 has their backs! #StandUpWebasto pic.twitter.com/7Doiq1j2xQ
— UAW (@UAW) August 28, 2024
UNITE HERE:
Hotel workers are putting the industry on notice.
Our wages aren’t enough.
Staffing cuts have made our jobs more painful than ever.
And we’re ready to strike for what our families need. pic.twitter.com/UITZ58wlyJ
— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) August 27, 2024
United Food and Commercial Workers:
Over 45 workers at 17 CBD Kratom & Mr. Nice Guy cannabis dispensaries have joined UFCW Local 655.
Workers organized to join UFCW due to shared concerns about insufficient wages, benefits, health insurance, & job stability. Let’s get to work!
➡️ https://t.co/tXit8QFQYF pic.twitter.com/KVWoVJvTaG
— UFCW (@UFCW) August 27, 2024
United Steelworkers:
For Paige Cisco of Local 689 in Ohio, fighting for workers’ health and safety is what motivates her every day. Read her full story: https://t.co/fNURJ8TXGw pic.twitter.com/9nV2ATGGCF
— United Steelworkers #EverybodysUnion (@steelworkers) August 27, 2024
Utility Workers:
The Executive Board of @UWUA_Local_1_2 is ready for Labor Day!
Every UWUA local received a limited quantity of these #ItsBetterInAUnion shirts so that across the country our union will be visible as we celebrate the labor movement. pic.twitter.com/w1JY5TjHvq
— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) August 28, 2024
Writers Guild of America East:
When writers decide to work together to organize a union at their workplace, they create the leverage and power they need to improve their working lives. You are the union. Reach out to us at organize@wgaeast.org to learn more and ask questions. #UnionStrong 💪
— Writers Guild of America East (@WGAEast) August 27, 2024
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 08/28/2024 - 10:04Service & Solidarity Spotlight: SMART-TD Announces Tentative Deal for Conductors with Amtrak
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Last week, the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers-Transportation Division (SMART-TD) announced a tentative agreement for a seven-year contract with Amtrak that covers conductors and assistant conductors.
Details of the agreement will go out to membership for a ratification vote over the next few weeks. Key economic highlights of the contract include substantial wage increases that are retroactive to July 2022, greater new hire training per diem, more conductor certification pay and improved training pay. SMART-TD also secured major wins relating to worker health and work-life balance, such as more paid parental leave, designating Martin Luther King Jr. Day as a paid holiday, improvements to bereavement pay and expansion of overtime.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 08/28/2024 - 09:56Break the Bias: In the States Roundup
It's time once again to take a look at the ways working people are making progress in the states. Click on any of the links to follow the state federations on X (formerly Twitter).
Arizona AFL-CIO:
💪Michael "BIG MIKE" Dawson, a member of the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT) has made the 10,000th call in our #2024LaborVotes campaign! pic.twitter.com/ZtBxIG3XSe
— Arizona AFL-CIO (@ArizonaAFLCIO) August 21, 2024
California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:
We are training up more union members throughout the state to hit worksites and the doors about the importance of the upcoming elections. pic.twitter.com/zXQ9WklIs9
— California Federation of Labor Unions (@CaliforniaLabor) August 24, 2024
Connecticut AFL-CIO:
The Connecticut AFL-CIO strongly condemns the anti-Semitic remarks made by Rep. Figueroa. @ehawthorne3 pic.twitter.com/Fwvi0lj7hy
— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) August 13, 2024
Florida AFL-CIO:
We love to see it! ✊ 💪 https://t.co/Srce55p0aP
— Florida AFL-CIO (@FLAFLCIO) August 23, 2024
Georgia State AFL-CIO:
As of 2020, roughly 10.6 million of the 15.9 million workers covered by a union contract are women and/or people of color. Almost half of workers represented by a union are women (47.1%).#WomenEqualityDay #1u #unionstrong #unionproud #solidarity #UnionsForAll #love #Equality pic.twitter.com/6ger5qGLvM
— Georgia AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOGeorgia) August 26, 2024
Illinois AFL-CIO:
Our friends at the @CFM10208 are organizing Hip Hop musicians, DJs, and EDM artists. These genres have rich ties to Illinois. Let's celebrate these artists as they fight for fair wages and an end to a "pay to play" culture of exploitation. More here: https://t.co/QOyVYfkV2M pic.twitter.com/vfERUxuiEl
— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) August 26, 2024
Indiana State AFL-CIO:
— Indiana AFL-CIO (@INAFLCIO) August 27, 2024
Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
🚨Primary GOTV Alert🚨
Election Day is Tuesday, 9/3!!
We will be working to elect our endorsed labor champions before, during, and after primary day! To kick off GOTV week, join Women Build Boston in Cambridge Monday to support State Rep. Marjorie Decker! 1/3 pic.twitter.com/Km15WcTJJ2
— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) August 23, 2024
Minnesota AFL-CIO:
The two-year-old Inflation Reduction Act is fulfilling its promise of accelerating the country’s transition to renewable energy while creating good-paying, union jobs along the way. #1u https://t.co/Ym21wOop4P
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) August 26, 2024
Missouri AFL-CIO:
🌡️ ☀️ It is very hot. Make sure you are hydrating and know the symptoms of a heat stroke. #heatwave pic.twitter.com/eQCoY2MS3X
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) August 27, 2024
Nevada State AFL-CIO:
Thank you to our amazing affiliates, sponsors, elected officials, and community partners for joining us for our 68th Constitutional Convention Welcome Reception! pic.twitter.com/iyMTdSliHN
— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) August 26, 2024
New York State AFL-CIO:
Congratulations to our President Mario Cilento, Secretary-Treasurer Terry Melvin, and the Vice Presidents on their elections! A special thanks to @NYSDOLCommish for swearing in our leaders this morning. pic.twitter.com/0suk9PNu6N
— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) August 27, 2024
North Carolina State AFL-CIO:
NC Labor Movement Welcomes @VP @KamalaHarris back to Raleigh! https://t.co/1eLJR68CvR #1u #ncpol 1/3 pic.twitter.com/D16u6hqaF8
— NC State AFL-CIO // #CountMeIn (@NCStateAFLCIO) August 16, 2024
Ohio AFL-CIO:
It's easy to see where @johnlegend got his values when we find out he grew up in a @UAW @AFLCIO #union household. https://t.co/HPtJLOqJjN
— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) August 26, 2024
Oregon AFL-CIO:
The clock is ticking Boeing ⏰ @IAM751 and District W24’s contract expires on September 12. Boeing Machinists deserve a #FairContractNow. #Solidarity
Read more 👇https://t.co/tFCm6fxtvM pic.twitter.com/JsrHVCMP9Y
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) August 27, 2024
Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:
Unions are the best tool to stand up to the historic inequity & corporate greed we are up against. In 2022 unions won 76% of National Labor Relations Board elections, the highest rate ever. And unions are more popular with the public now than at any time since the 1960s.#LaborDay pic.twitter.com/lltdUBH44S
— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) August 26, 2024
Texas AFL-CIO:
NEWS: Through our 2024 Scholarship Program, the Texas AFL-CIO awarded 25 grants of $1,500 each to an outstanding class of applicants.
Thank you to the locals and members who made this possible through their generous donations.
Read more: https://t.co/3M5bK7ZO1A
— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) August 26, 2024
Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
Under Gov. Walz, Minnesota runs one of the most effective OSHA state plan programs. The state ranks fifth-lowest in the rate of workplace fatalities, significantly lower than the federal workplace fatality rate. https://t.co/FX4BpGhOm0
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) August 24, 2024
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 08/27/2024 - 10:37Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Guitar Center Workers in Six Locations Ratify New Contract
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU-UFCW) members at six Guitar Center locations in Illinois, Massachusetts, Nevada and New York ratified a new three-year contract.
The agreement includes multiple meaningful wins for staff, like an increased minimum wage rate for every position—which will continue to go up every year throughout the life of the contract—and an additional seniority wage adjustment for more tenured workers. Additionally, members are maintaining their union health care plan with the addition of a new short-term disability benefit. Other highlights are an updated attendance policy that increases the grace period for being late, provisions protecting the right to call additional labor-management meetings during the year, work schedule transparency, upward mobility opportunities, protections for the current commissions policy and more.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 08/27/2024 - 09:56Saving Workers' Lives and Limbs: The Working People Weekly List
Every week, we bring you a roundup of the top news and commentary about issues and events important to working families. Here’s the latest edition of the Working People Weekly List.
Labor Leaders Stand Up, Show Out for Kamala at DNC: “The Democratic National Convention’s (DNC) nomination of Vice President Kamala Harris for president and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as the next vice president commenced with a wave of endorsements from the nation’s largest labor unions. On the very first night of the convention, an impressive gathering of union presidents took the stage. AFSCME’s Lee Saunders, SEIU (Service Employees International Union) President April Verrett, LIUNA (Laborer’s International Union of North America) President Brent Booker, Ken Cooper of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), Claude Cummings Jr. of the Communication Workers of America (CWA), and Liz Shuler of the AFL-CIO stood on stage together, they displayed the power of unions.”
NWSL, Players Reach New CBA That Includes Elimination of Draft: “The National Women’s Soccer League and its players agreed to a new collective bargaining agreement that will grow salaries and further expand player rights regarding free agency and trades, the sides announced Thursday. The deal includes the elimination of the college draft, a first for a major North American professional sports league. The new CBA will extend the current contract, which was negotiated in 2022 and was set to expire in 2026, through 2030. Some of the new terms, such as the elimination of the draft and free agency for all players when their contracts expire, will go into effect immediately; others will begin in 2025.”
How Tim Walz Saved Workers’ Lives and Limbs: “In 2023, with a narrow Democratic majority and working closely with the Minnesota AFL-CIO, the state legislature passed several innovative laws that greatly strengthen the safety and health protections provided to Minnesota workers employed in high-hazard jobs. These include: Protecting Workers from Ergonomic Hazards: About 30% of all serious injuries reported by employers to the Bureau of Labor Statistics are musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). These are injuries to the back, wrist, neck, or arm caused by exposure to lifting, twisting, repetitive motions, and other ergonomic hazards.”
Union Leaders at DNC Push Back Against Trump Overtures to Organized Labor: “Vice President Kamala Harris’ campaign is highlighting its pro-union stance at the Democratic National Convention this week, pushing back against Republican Party overtures to organized labor at their own convention last month. It’s an attempt to refute former President Donald Trump’s claims that he will work with organized labor amid recent meetings with the president of the Teamsters union, and an effort by Harris to hitch onto President Joe Biden’s labor record, which includes being the first president to walk a picket line. Addressing the Wisconsin delegation to the DNC Wednesday morning, U.S. Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su argued Harris had fought wage theft as attorney general of California, and would enact worker-friendly policies as president.”
Venetian Las Vegas Reaches Tentative Deal with Workers for First Union Contract: “The Venetian Resort has agreed to its first union contract with more than 4,000 hospitality workers. The Culinary Union announced that a tentative agreement was reached Tuesday morning for workers at The Venetian and Palazzo. A contract ratification vote will be scheduled soon, according to a union spokesperson. Culinary and Venetian leadership reached an agreement in June last year for ‘card check neutrality.’ That meant the resort would not take a position as employees explored possible unionization.”
University of Alaska and Graduate Student Union Reach Three-Year Contract: “A new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) between the University of Alaska and the Alaska Graduate Workers Association-UAW Union (AGWA-UAW) took effect on July 1. This is the first time the University of Alaska and AGWA have negotiated a CBA. The agreement comes less than a year after University of Alaska graduate student employees voted to form a union.”
Union Leaders Frame Harris as Champion of the Working Class in Night 1 of DNC: “Union leaders championed Vice President Kamala Harris as the choice for working class folks in a series of speeches on the opening night of the Democratic National Convention. ‘This election is about two economic visions,’ said Liz Shuler, president of the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations, or AFL-CIO. Her union represents nearly 13 million American workers, she said.”
Kamala Harris Names a Unionist as Her VP: “Just hours after Vice President Kamala Harris named Tim Walz as her running mate Aug. 6, AFL-CIO president Liz Shuler celebrated the pick in a press statement, calling Walz a ‘principled fighter and labor champion’ who’s not just an ally but a union brother. Walz is a former public high school teacher and football coach who has been Minnesota’s governor since 2019. As governor, he signed lots of pro-worker legislation, including: Paid family and medical leave and mandated paid sick days; A ban on noncompete clauses; A ban on employers from holding mandatory anti-union meetings; Letting teachers unions bargain over class size; and $2.6 billion in infrastructure investments.”
The Rev. Barber: Kamala Harris Isn’t Just Listening to Workers. She’s Sounding Like Them: “With its rallies that pack arenas, Vice President Kamala Harris’ presidential campaign has harnessed an energy that many have compared to Barack Obama’s 2008 campaign. Polls in battleground states indicate that the dynamics of the presidential race have fundamentally shifted, but skeptics question if the good vibes can last once the vice president starts to detail policy. Is this burst of excitement, they ask, just the momentary enthusiasm of voters surprised by an unexpected transition? When we pay attention to what Harris and Walz have already said, though, it’s clear they have tapped the energy of worker-driven movements that want to create an economy that works for all of us. The good vibes and the economic vision of this campaign are, in fact, deeply connected.”
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 08/26/2024 - 12:04Service & Solidarity Alert: 17,000 AT&T Southeast Workers on Strike
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
We are CWA members on strike at AT&T Southeast because AT&T is refusing to engage in good faith negotiations for a new contract.
We are a big part of AT&T’s success, but we have been at the bargaining table since June, unable to make any progress because of the Company's bad faith bargaining.
The National Labor Relations Act requires companies to bargain in good faith. We have filed an unfair labor practice charge against the company and are on strike to protest the Company's unfair bargaining tactics.
We want to be on the job, providing the quality service that our customers deserve and getting to work making sure every household and business in the Southeast has reliable high-speed internet service.
Tell AT&T to show us the respect we deserve and get serious about bargaining.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 08/26/2024 - 10:22Tags: Organizing
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Memphis City Employees Celebrate Across-the-Board Pay Raises and Bonuses
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Employees of the city of Memphis, Tennessee, are celebrating much-needed wage hikes and bonuses they secured through the union they formed—a testament to the power of a union.
They are celebrating $5,000 bonuses along with pay raises of at least 5%. Workers who keep Memphis’ hospitals, schools and roads running saw this increase last month.
Employees of the city’s Solid Waste Department, who keep Memphis clean, saw pay raises ranging from 6% to 34%.
Corrections officers and deputies saw raises of 6%.
These well-deserved pay raises and bonuses are thanks to AFSCME Local 1733 members, who had been negotiating with the Memphis City Council since April and came to an agreement.
Tomorrow Bonds, a member of Local 1733’s negotiations team and a crewperson in the Memphis Public Works Department, said that she and her co-workers were not going to back down from their proposals.
“We came to the table with our proposals for the wage increases that we wanted, but the city kept turning it down,” Bonds said. “But we decided we weren’t going to take their counterproposals for less, and we wanted a fair wage.”
On June 18, Local 1733 members ratified a memorandum of understanding that they reached with the city for these pay increases and bonuses to take effect on July 1.
For Bonds, these wage increases are only the beginning. The fight for a livable wage continues.
“It’s very important to me that everybody has a livable wage, and right now, we’re still not at a livable wage,” Bonds said. “But I can see that fighting for this pay increase has opened up a path for us to get there.”
This post originally appeared on the AFSCME blog.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 08/23/2024 - 10:02Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Women’s Soccer Players Association Scores Historic Collective Bargaining Agreement
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
The National Women’s Soccer League Players Association (NWSLPA) announced their historic new collective bargaining agreement, which ensures free agency for all players, revenue sharing on top of salaries, important health and safety protections, and other provisions that will help create a more equitable League. For the first time ever in American professional sports, this contract also eliminates the draft, empowering athlete workers to have a real say over their futures.
“The new Collective Bargaining Agreement is a reflection of the collective power of the Players,” said NWSLPA President Tori Huster. “Together, we secured freedoms that empower the Players to have autonomy over their careers and in doing so, reshaped American sports.”
“Just weeks after some members of the NWSLPA became Olympic champions with Team USA, these athletes have made history yet again,” said AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler. “This game-changing collective bargaining agreement sets the gold standard for all professional sports and affirms what workers in unions can accomplish when we stand together. The revolutionary victories they secured—from eliminating the draft to requiring player consent for trades to safeguarding player health—advance the critical work of professional sports associations to let players decide what’s best for their families. Collective bargaining is a powerful tool in achieving women’s equality in any workplace, and these results are a testament to the visionary leadership of President Tori Huster, Executive Director Meghann Burke, Vice President Simone Charley, the bargaining committee and all members of the Players Association who are dedicated to creating a better, fairer League. The AFL-CIO is beyond proud to count the NWSLPA among its Sports Council and affiliate unions, and we look forward to continuing to support the NWSL players to ensure fair implementation of this contract. It’s a damn good day for union women in America!”
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 08/22/2024 - 09:58More Freedom for Working People: 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:
Each month, Equity shares the names of recently deceased members in order to honor their passing and pay our respects. You may read about the losses in our community reported to Equity for July 2024 on the member portal. https://t.co/myvtrd4Ufv pic.twitter.com/Ck1c3B8GWp
— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) August 21, 2024
AFGE:
Thank you @RepMarkTakano for working tirelessly to improve our VA medical centers and the workplace rights of those who serve our nation’s heroes. pic.twitter.com/G2zo9Rqu5I
— AFGE (@AFGENational) August 21, 2024
AFSCME:
ICYMI: AFSCME backs @KamalaHarris for president because she believe in “more freedom for working people,” President Saunders said at #DNC2024. https://t.co/86PYM4udOz
— AFSCME (@AFSCME) August 20, 2024
Alliance for Retired Americans:
Affordable health care and protections for people with pre-existing conditions are on the ballot this year. https://t.co/JVPEeqg7tB
— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) August 20, 2024
Amalgamated Transit Union:
Day 2 of the 2024 Democratic National Convention in Chicago was just as exciting as the first. Representing the ATU were #DNC New Jersey Delegate International President John Costa, International Vice President Yvette Trujillo, Secretary-Treasurer Ken Kirk, International Vice… pic.twitter.com/wnkQQCx9pf
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) August 21, 2024
American Federation of Teachers:
Are you absolutely sure that you're registered to vote?
Couldn't hurt to check.
Visit https://t.co/lfN1JDpjKD to confirm your voter registration status, and share this to your friends so they do the same! #AFTvotes pic.twitter.com/XV0o3rtfPt
— AFT (@AFTunion) August 14, 2024
Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:
Flight Attendants save lives.
We are aviation’s first responders and the last line of defense in aviation security. We are the first impression and the smile of aviation connecting the people of our nations.
Happy National Aviation Day to Aviation’s First Responders! pic.twitter.com/EmNC7roE7l
— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) August 19, 2024
Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers:
No one in government fought as hard as @SenSherrodBrown did for our pensions. https://t.co/RRMETZS2rA
— BCTGM International (@BCTGM) August 21, 2024
Boilermakers:
‼️ Breaking News: IBB announces leadership changes: https://t.co/QMz9Hcpvqq pic.twitter.com/kAnuH7Fuxz
— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) August 20, 2024
Bricklayers:
Happy #WorkSiteWednesday! This week, Justin Guillermo, Jeris Orian, and Joe Ermitano from BAC local 1 Hawaii are working on the Wahiawa Civic Center!
Thank you for your hard work!#Unionstrong #thebesthandsinthebusiness pic.twitter.com/wevdu6PwPL
— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) August 21, 2024
Coalition of Labor Union Women:
Sylvia Lieberman Recalls First CLUW Convention. #CLUW50 https://t.co/Xt7NNGc6ki
— CLUW National (@CLUWNational) August 19, 2024
Communications Workers of America:
🚨Strike Alert! 🚨
CWA members at AT&T Southeast are on strike to protest unfair labor practices committed by management during negotiations for a new union contract. pic.twitter.com/qb4iCXdyzX
— CWA (@CWAUnion) August 16, 2024
Department for Professional Employees:
ICYMI: Apple TV visual effects professionals voted to join together in union with @IATSE https://t.co/Z8IlD1VelM
— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) August 11, 2024
Electrical Workers:
. @UnionSportsmen brings you Major League Fishing Angler Jesse Spellicy who shares five baits you need in your tacklebox. https://t.co/KrWt0oJ5uY
— IBEW (@IBEW) August 21, 2024
Heat and Frost Insulators:
Asbestos Memorial🕊️
During the 2024 Officers Conference in Vancouver, British Columbia, General President, Terry Larkin & former IVP, Anthony Ceraldi, visited the Memorial.
➡️Read more: https://t.co/NInou94huB
#InsulatorsUnion #HFIAW #asbestos #mesothelioma pic.twitter.com/VCyZzCTBAx
— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) August 19, 2024
Jobs With Justice:
We just heard from union leaders at the #DNC. They are right—it’s time for workers to be able to freely organize w/o interference from billionaire CEOs, take home family-sustaining wages, and retire w/ dignity. #UnionYes @AFLCIO @AFSCME @IBEW @CWAUnion @SEIU @LIUNA
— Jobs With Justice (@jwjnational) August 20, 2024
Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:
🚨 Eliminating the Department of Education under #Project2025 would have devastating effects on our society and communities. Historically, authoritarian regimes target education to control citizens and impose conservative ideals, undermining democratic values. pic.twitter.com/tUtC8EWNZA
— LCLAA (@LCLAA) August 21, 2024
Labor Heritage Foundation:
No Contract, No Cartoons."
After weekend rallies, The Animation Guild (TAG) started contract talks w/the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers. "We're defending the soul of this industry," said TAG President Jeanette Moreno King
Read more: https://t.co/8ual57wPpt pic.twitter.com/SWpigI22g4
— Labor Heritage (@LaborHeritage1) August 21, 2024
Laborers:
Our GP and several labor leaders brought the POWER to the #DNC2024 stage last night, uniting behind the Harris-Walz ticket! Their passion and commitment to workers and #unions were electric. This is the momentum we need to secure our future! @DemConvention @VP @Tim_Walz https://t.co/2qH8Xmv03e
— LIUNA (@LIUNA) August 20, 2024
Machinists:
Celebrating the beautiful life and legacy of Sister Maria Santiago Lillis, IAM Western Territory Locals united with community organizations in her honor. Their service magnifies the dedication Maria had for our communities. https://t.co/9aWtkhzpYc.
— Machinists Union (@MachinistsUnion) August 21, 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:
Save the San Francisco Symphony Chorus: Send a Letter to Management - https://t.co/OfUYN7k9AO pic.twitter.com/EJYjSxAAyT
— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) August 19, 2024
National Air Traffic Controllers Association:
Are you keeping your contact information current on MyNATCA? It's crucial for all NATCA members to regularly update their preferred contact details on MyNATCA to ensure they receive important communications.
Visit https://t.co/snJux6foFR and log in with your credentials. pic.twitter.com/6Iys6A3Tey
— NATCA (@NATCA) August 20, 2024
National Association of Letter Carriers:
This #MemberMonday, we're giving a shout-out to New Castle, PA Branch 22 carrier Bill Rubin. For Scott Collar, a customer with disabilities who lives on Bill's route, the kindness that Bill delivers each day makes him more than a mailman – he's become a true friend. (🧵1/2) pic.twitter.com/nc2YQCgM1U
— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) August 19, 2024
National Day Laborer Organizing Network:
Coming up next month!#BringHumanRightsHome https://t.co/x6jgzPxeM6
— NDLON (@NDLON) August 20, 2024
National Domestic Workers Alliance:
More workers than ever need paid time off for mental health conditions and are getting denied. Employers must support the well-being of their employees.
That means investing in care. https://t.co/HeWXEO2RNu
— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) August 15, 2024
National Nurses United:
Nurses met with @RevDrBarber today at #DNCConvention2024!
We’re excited and honored to be fighting alongside such a powerful champion for working families. #NursesForKamala pic.twitter.com/pVInzv04cc
— NationalNursesUnited (@NationalNurses) August 20, 2024
NFL Players Association:
Denver Broncos linebacker Baron Browning tackled back-to-school prep at a block party last week, where 100 kids and their families scored school supplies and a day of fun at the team’s training facility. 📚✏️ pic.twitter.com/mWm4Q4knai
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) August 16, 2024
North America's Building Trades Unions:
Brent Booker, @LIUNA General President, says Trump made empty promises, while the Biden-Harris Administration delivered. As President, Kamala Harris will fight for the workers who are building America.https://t.co/zngunCZixh
— The Building Trades (@NABTU) August 21, 2024
Office and Professional Employees:
Standardized patients at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia are fighting for a fair contract!
Tell university administrators to stop union-busting and pay them a fair wage! ↓↓↓ #UnionStrong https://t.co/KbvUUTanQ5
— OPEIU | #UnionStrong (@OPEIU) August 20, 2024
Painters and Allied Trades:
As we approach our General Convention, we reflect on each and every one of our members who have shaped the IUPAT into the strong and fighting union that we are today.
For over 137 years, our members' commitments and our union's collective efforts have ignited a force of change… pic.twitter.com/EYtfCXqRkK
— IUPAT (@GoIUPAT) August 12, 2024
Plasterers and Cement Masons:
Project 2025 wants Congress & DOL to exempt small business, first-time, non-willful violators from OSHA fines issued by, even potentially in egregious cases of employer malpractice. https://t.co/3Y0j8V9TVC
— OPCMIA International (@opcmiaintl) August 15, 2024
Pride At Work:
Join us to organize this election season and ensure LGBTQIA+ worker power is a priority!
Sign up here: https://t.co/jkPXJ0Ym8c #organize #solidarityforever pic.twitter.com/x1FtxpmvK7
— Pride at Work (@PrideatWork) August 19, 2024
Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:
.@RWDSU President @sappelbaum opens the 2nd @DemConvention Labor Council meeting. Asst. to the President Jessica Garcia who has spearheaded the planning led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. #DemConvention2024 pic.twitter.com/WQfY6rNCYY
— RWDSU (@RWDSU) August 21, 2024
Roofers and Waterproofers:
Certain weather conditions can be hazardous for roofers. Follow these tips to stay safe! https://t.co/4J2VP83XzI #roofersafety365 pic.twitter.com/XPjZABkM3D
— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) August 21, 2024
SAG-AFTRA:
🎙️ “Voice Actor and Movement Performers, we love this work.”
Check out the full Game Actors on Game Actors: SAG-AFTRA Panel At Comic-Con 2024: https://t.co/D7AguPJaC0 pic.twitter.com/sxkMuaMnSc
— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) August 21, 2024
Solidarity Center:
“We will leave no one behind.”
Amid victory against union busting after a month-long campaign, #Sofitel workers' unions continue to lead the push for job security for all workers.
🔗https://t.co/Oy6exvFsLu#StandWithSofitelWorkers #Philippines #Solidarity pic.twitter.com/qAN9sA8Suo
— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) August 21, 2024
The NewsGuild-CWA:
🚨
On Sunday evening, Adrian Szkolar – a member of the @CTnewsguild organizing committee – was fired. This comes a mere ten days after the guild went public with their union drive.
Tell Hearst CT Media Group: Reinstate Adrian & recognize @CTnewsguild 👇https://t.co/8DjIkU4bh6
— NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) August 19, 2024
Theatrical Stage Employees:
“As a union member, it’s important that we have candidates who support our values,” IATSE Local 720 (Nevada) Member Matt Kimball said.
“Donald Trump crossed my union’s picket line in ‘04, and that’s something I can never forgive him for and never will.” https://t.co/SoqFek4XxA
— IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) August 21, 2024
Transport Workers Union:
— TWU (@transportworker) August 19, 2024
Transportation Trades Department:
The @seattletimes Editorial Board nails it with a message for the Washington State Ferry System: pay your workers!
Low staffing levels, noncompetitive wages, and overworked @MEBAUNION marine engineers = compromised service.
Read more: https://t.co/W4DjOzEPU8
— TTD | America's Transportation Unions (@TTDAFLCIO) August 20, 2024
UAW:
Cornell University has a $10 billion endowment. Management could easily afford to treat workers with the dignity and respect they deserve. Instead, Cornell is attempting to union bust by encouraging retirees and faculty to scab.
This is textbook corporate greed. @UAWregion9 pic.twitter.com/pyTIMaTxcx
— UAW (@UAW) August 21, 2024
Union Veterans Council:
We proudly call Gov. @Tim_Walz one of our own here at the Union Veterans Council. As a card-carrying Union Vet, he has worked closely with us to pass vital veterans' legislation and support working families. 🇺🇸 #UnionStrong #StandWithWalz https://t.co/cSL1NJVrpP
— Union Veterans Council🪖✊ (@unionveterans) August 11, 2024
UNITE HERE:
Hotel workers are at a breaking point – and thousands have now authorized strikes.
Wages aren’t enough to cover the cost of living. Staffing cuts have made hotel jobs more painful than ever.
But we know that when we fight, we win. pic.twitter.com/faAi8vrvTu
— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) August 21, 2024
United Food and Commercial Workers:
Discover the UFCW Discount College Program, offering highly discounted tuition rates at participating colleges. Unlock a wide variety of online degrees & pursue higher education goals on your schedule. Available to all UFCW members & families.
➡️ https://t.co/vJfcSxhgs0 pic.twitter.com/BxpXkoA1kv
— UFCW (@UFCW) August 20, 2024
United Steelworkers:
Congrats to USW Local 819, Pactiv Evergreen, in Turlock, Calif., for ratifying a new, three-year collective bargaining agreement after more than 18 months of difficult bargaining. pic.twitter.com/FaxuwJG75W
— United Steelworkers #EverybodysUnion (@steelworkers) August 21, 2024
Utility Workers:
Louder for the folks in the back! 📣
Every worker deserves the opportunity to join a union, and those with the lowest wages, fewest benefits, and the most unpredictable schedules have the most to gain by organizing! #UnionYeshttps://t.co/89SAkeba70
— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) August 21, 2024
Writers Guild of America East:
A huge congrats to our @crooked_union members who held strong to win a benchmark-setting contract with an $80k salary minimum - and LOTS more. Take a look ⬇️💪 #UnionStrong https://t.co/SPKSkQpvbc
— Writers Guild of America East (@WGAEast) August 15, 2024
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 08/21/2024 - 08:10Service & Solidarity Spotlight: TA Reached Between OHSU and Postdoc Workers United
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
After almost a year of negotiations, postdoctoral researchers reached their first tentative agreement (TA) last week on a four-year contract with Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU).
Members of OHSU Postdoc Workers United—an affiliate of the Oregon AFSCME Council 75—certified their union back in May 2023. After repeated lowball proposals from the public research university, workers earlier this month voted with 87.5% support to authorize a strike that would have started Thursday. But thanks to the dedication of the bargaining committee, the 250 members of Postdoc Workers United have avoided a strike and will now decide whether to accept an exciting new agreement. The deal includes a 6% pay increase upon ratification, with annual increases of 3.5% through the life of the contract, provisions that support international postdocs, increased paid time off, a commitment to forming a joint labor-management committee and more.
“It’s been a long haul,” said Paige Arneson-Wissink, a pancreatic cancer researcher who is on the bargaining team. “Our union was able to stand strong in our belief that this is what we deserved. There were a lot of smiles in the room last night.”
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 08/21/2024 - 08:03Life Is 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).
Alabama AFL-CIO:
August 12, 2024 downtown Montgomery Alabama with a room full of labor leaders from across the state to endorse candidates for this years election and not one candidate #inattendence pic.twitter.com/IURccTxlrd
— Alabama AFL-CIO (@AlabamaAFLCIO) August 12, 2024
Alaska AFL-CIO:
When someone shows you who they are, believe them. https://t.co/2uNEll3ylH
— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) August 14, 2024
Arizona AFL-CIO:
Today @ActSecJulieSu visited Arizona to discuss the dangers workers face from extreme heat, both indoor and outdoors. Heat is the leading weather-related cause of death in Arizona the U.S.
A THREAD 🧵 ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/pwKdMgKR3u
— Arizona AFL-CIO (@ArizonaAFLCIO) August 8, 2024
California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:
#UnionizeCalifornia https://t.co/SC9fUNvGLG
— California Federation of Labor Unions (@CaliforniaLabor) August 15, 2024
Connecticut AFL-CIO:
Management at Hearst have FIRED a union organizer in a clear case of retaliation. Tell Hearst to reinstate Adrian and recognize the @CTnewsguild! #UnionBustingIsDisgusting https://t.co/z0bDpceGI4
— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) August 19, 2024
Florida AFL-CIO:
Today is Florida's Primary Election, and polls are open from 7am to 7pm. If you haven't already, go vote! pic.twitter.com/5yop33AyV9
— Florida AFL-CIO (@FLAFLCIO) August 20, 2024
Georgia State AFL-CIO:
#Thankful for all the #aviation workers #❤️ #AviationDay #1u #unionstrong #unionproud #solidarity #UnionsForAll https://t.co/UG5be23hhO
— Georgia AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOGeorgia) August 19, 2024
Illinois AFL-CIO:
#unionsforharriswalz because life is better in a union. #1u pic.twitter.com/Ml3Em0jkQR
— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) August 19, 2024
Maine AFL-CIO:
Stage Hands Local 114 are celebrating their 120th Anniversary! Check out our story about the founders of Local 114 during the vaudeville era in 1905 & the rebirth of live stage events in Portland from the late 1970s to the present.https://t.co/kkNdFKjiXN @IATSE114 @IATSE
— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) August 16, 2024
Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
“Unions built the middle class” - @JoeBiden
The Biden-Harris admin. has our backs every day: 15 million new jobs, billions in infrastructure, bringing manufacturing back home to America, and saving our pensions #DNC #ThankYouJoe #ItsBetterInAUnion #UnionsForHarrisWalz @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/LtedLJq6Cw
— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) August 20, 2024
Michigan State AFL-CIO:
This November, Michiganders will be faced with a choice between the candidates who stand with working people, and the ones who stand with corporate billionaires.
We're proud to announce our endorsements of pro-labor champions up and down the ballot.https://t.co/y5aSi4UGtS
— Michigan AFL-CIO ✊ (@MIAFLCIO) August 19, 2024
Minnesota AFL-CIO:
Under the legislation, which went into effect on July 1, companies in Minnesota are barred from entering into new contracts that contain restrictive covenants, which function like noncompete agreements but have previously slipped past the prohibitions. #1u https://t.co/70nFyktrVj
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) August 19, 2024
Missouri AFL-CIO:
We’re voting YES on Proposition A to bring #PaidSickDays to MO and #RaiseTheWage to $15/hr by 2026. It’s time to prioritize the people who keep our communities thriving. pic.twitter.com/vrFLf483e2
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) August 17, 2024
Nevada State AFL-CIO:
7️⃣9️⃣ days until the election! Thank you to everyone who came to our Superwalk kickoff in both Northern and Southern Nevada, our speakers who energized the room, and our volunteers who are spending their sunny Saturday knocking on doors & phone banking.
LETS WIN THIS THING🗳️ pic.twitter.com/c81lHJo1Tu
— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) August 17, 2024
New Hampshire AFL-CIO:
We are thrilled to announce the 2024 @NHAFLCIO Labor Day Breakfast Keynote Speaker, @JBPritzker!@JBPritzker is a true ally to union members everywhere!
Get your tickets today using this link: https://t.co/iLbOzbwMbq#NHPolitics #1u #LaborVotes pic.twitter.com/ppCGbVZNe9
— New Hampshire AFL-CIO (@NHAFLCIO) August 13, 2024
New Jersey State AFL-CIO:
At the New Jersey State AFL-CIO, we stand in solidarity with Governor Walz on key issues for working families. pic.twitter.com/Hn8mW1uFSq
— New Jersey AFL-CIO (@NJAFLCIO) August 7, 2024
New York State AFL-CIO:
Standing with our UAW family fighting for a fair contract at Cornell University today ✊ #StandUpCornell #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/VADRCuxUdU
— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) August 16, 2024
North Carolina State AFL-CIO:
NC Labor Movement Welcomes @VP @KamalaHarris back to Raleigh! https://t.co/1eLJR68CvR #1u #ncpol 1/3 pic.twitter.com/D16u6hqaF8
— NC State AFL-CIO // #CountMeIn (@NCStateAFLCIO) August 16, 2024
Ohio AFL-CIO:
Get the @UAW shirt today! #UnionsForHarris #ItsBetterInAUnion#TrumpIsAScab https://t.co/vPfwhk88Pz
— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) August 20, 2024
Oregon AFL-CIO:
Oregon workers are #StrongerTogether. Find out how to organize by going to https://t.co/WphIRB4ySr pic.twitter.com/dw4QrE9cER
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) August 18, 2024
Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:
Glad you asked!
In Pennsylvania, both the number of union members and the number of workers with union representation is the highest it’s been in over a decade. https://t.co/823aBSengh pic.twitter.com/sSj4PldTGa
— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) August 20, 2024
Texas AFL-CIO:
See how we rep Texas workers at the DNC?
Very demure. Very mindful. pic.twitter.com/z3GdrUcrLW
— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) August 19, 2024
Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
The WI AFL-CIO was proud to host a press conference this morning in support of Kamala Harris for President. Standing against the chaos and division of another Trump Presidency, we heard from Former Racine Police Chief Art Howell and U.S. Capitol Police Officer Harry Dunn. pic.twitter.com/Uqu3ezOltH
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) August 16, 2024
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 08/20/2024 - 08:32Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Richmond Hotel Workers Secure 30% Wage Increase, End 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.
Workers at the Sheraton Vancouver Airport, members of UNITE HERE Local 40, ratified a new contract after striking for 14 months. The new three-year contract gives all workers a 30.5% wage increase, a return-to-work bonuses, an increase in banquet workers’ gratuities, transparency and other tip protections, and new health benefits. More than 85% of the union members voted in favor of the new contract.
“This new agreement sets the union on a new path with Larco Hospitality, and we look forward to forging ahead in a productive and positive working relationship with them,” said Zailda Chan, president of UNITE HERE Local 40.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 08/20/2024 - 08:08Worker Wins: What We Deserve
Our latest roundup of worker wins includes numerous examples of working people organizing, bargaining and mobilizing for a better life.
NWSL Players Association Scores Historic New Contract: This morning, the National Women’s Soccer League Players Association (NWSLPA) announced that they have secured an historic new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) that ensures free agency for all players, revenue sharing on top of salaries, important health and safety protections and other provisions that will help create a more equitable league. “Just weeks after some members of the NWSLPA became Olympic champions with Team USA, these athletes have made history yet again,” said AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler. “This game-changing collective bargaining agreement sets the gold standard for all professional sports and affirms what workers in unions can accomplish when we stand together….The AFL-CIO is beyond proud to count the NWSLPA among its Sports Council and affiliate unions, and we look forward to continuing to support the NWSL players to ensure fair implementation of this contract. It’s a damn good day for union women in America!” Read the AFL-CIO’s full statement here.
Las Vegas Venetian Workers Win Historic TA with Major Pay Boosts: On Tuesday, Culinary Workers Union Local 226 and Bartenders Union Local 165—Nevada affiliates of UNITE HERE—announced with The Venetian Resort Las Vegas that they have reached a tentative agreement (TA) on a new four-year contract. Before workers organized in June 2023 through a card-check neutrality agreement, the Venetian Resort Las Vegas—which includes both The Venetian and The Palazzo properties—had been a decades-long holdout under the previous ownership as the Las Vegas Strip’s only nonunion property. If ratified by members, this would be the first union contract covering the more than 4,000 food, beverage, housekeeping, bar, lounge and bell department workers at the casino resorts. A committee of more than 100 staff participated in every main table negotiating session and subcommittee meeting over the past year, resulting in a milestone TA with standard protections, such as health care benefits, language on increased worker security regarding sexual harassment and immigration, a pension and more. The deal also secured wins including the largest wage increases ever, workload reductions, daily room cleaning for guest room attendants, safety protections for workers on the job and recall rights. “I’m happy to have the union protections and voice we deserve,” said Sergio Javier Andrade, floor attendant at The Venetian Resort for 17 years, in a union press release. “This new contract is a game-changer for all of us—getting such a significant wage increase and a pension, is something we’ve been working toward for a long time, and to see it happen this morning is exciting, and I appreciate the Culinary Union and The Venetian Resort working together to make it happen. We’ve worked hard for this for over a year, and I feel very proud of what we were able to accomplish together. By voting yes to ratify, we’re setting ourselves up for a better, more secure future.”
WMATA Metro Workers Ratify New Contract: With 90% in approval, Washington Metro workers overwhelmingly ratified a new contract between the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority Board and their union, the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 689. The ratification vote took place Monday, and Local 689 announced Wednesday that the WMATA Board has concurred, making the new agreement official. ATU represents over 8,500 workers across the regional transit system who are indispensable in keeping the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area moving. The new contract includes major victories to improve members’ livelihoods, WMATA’s fiscal responsibility and system accountability. “The contract overwhelmingly approved by Metro workers is a huge win for the dedicated transit professionals who move our region day in and day out,” said ATU Local 689 President Raymond Jackson. “We negotiated a fair and equitable deal with the Authority ensuring our members continue to receive fair compensation they’ve earned while also enforcing accountability throughout the system. Notably, we were able to get retiree healthcare back for many of our members while also guaranteeing that everyone would see raises through the life of this contract.”
Workers at Hyatt Regency Crystal City Vote Decisively to Organize Despite Anti-Union Campaign: Despite weeks of aggressive anti-union campaigning from hotel management, a majority of housekeepers at the Hyatt Regency Crystal City in Arlington, Virginia, voted Friday to join UNITE HERE Local 25. After a supermajority of staff signed union authorization cards, housekeepers at the hotel filed for a union election on July 12. Hyatt then began an intensive anti-union crusade inside, which included regular anti-union meetings and distribution of anti-union literature. In the face of these attempts at undermining their organizing, workers picketed outside the hotel every Saturday with the support of labor allies and local lawmakers until their scheduled National Labor Relations Board election this past Friday. While the fight isn’t over, housekeepers are hoping that forming a union will help them address their workload and benefits concerns. “We are so excited and proud,” said Olga Ortiz, a housekeeper at the hotel and a leader on the organizing campaign. “It didn’t matter what the company threw at us—we stood strong and stood together. Now we are preparing to win our first contract with fairer workloads, higher pay and affordable benefits.”
TA Reached Between OHSU and Postdoc Workers United: After almost a year of negotiations, postdoctoral researchers reached their first tentative agreement (TA) last week on a four-year contract with Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU). Members of OHSU Postdoc Workers United—an affiliate of the Oregon AFSCME Council 75—certified their union back in May 2023. After repeated lowball proposals from the public research university, workers earlier this month voted with 87.5% support to authorize a strike that would have started Thursday. But thanks to the dedication of the bargaining committee, the 250 members of Postdoc Workers United have avoided a strike and will now decide whether to accept an exciting new agreement. The deal includes a 6% pay increase upon ratification, with annual increases of 3.5% through the life of the contract, provisions that support international postdocs, increased paid time off, a commitment to forming a joint labor-management committee and more. “It’s been a long haul,” said Paige Arneson-Wissink, a pancreatic cancer researcher who is on the bargaining team. “Our union was able to stand strong in our belief that this is what we deserved. There were a lot of smiles in the room last night.”
New Mexico School for the Deaf Educators Form Union: Staff at the New Mexico School for the Deaf (NMSD) joined AFT New Mexico earlier this month, forming a wall-to-wall union at the Santa Fe campus. The New Mexico School for the Deaf Faculty & Staff Association bargaining unit includes all workers, from educators to bus drivers to administrative secretaries and more. The state Public Employee Labor Relations Board voted Aug. 6 to ratify the results of a union card-check, and the union has described the organizing process as a “relatively amicable” one. The workers who staff the school—which serves students from prekindergarten to 12th grade—really united over the need to secure wages that keep up with the high costs of living in Santa Fe. Funding for the institution comes from the state, but unlike other public schools, the NMSD doesn’t get money on a per-student basis. So, if the New Mexico Legislature passes a raise for teachers, it doesn’t necessarily mean these staff will receive a pay increase. Members are hoping that with the union, they can better negotiate for transparency and consistency in their salaries and benefits.
Torrance Nurses Ratify New Contract by Overwhelming Majority: Registered nurses (RNs) at Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center in Torrance, California, voted late last week with 89% supporting the ratification of a new three-year contract. The RNs are represented by the California Nurses Association, an affiliate of National Nurses United (NNU), and have been bargaining for this agreement since April of this year. Thanks to the bargaining unit’s unfaltering unity—including during an informational picket in June—members are celebrating a powerful new contract that secures critical provisions members need to continue delivering quality care to patients. Highlights of the deal include strengthened health and safety measures, the establishment of an equity and inclusion committee focused on diversity, language to ensure nurses can take their breaks with safe staffing levels and a 14.5% across-the-board wage increase over the three-year term. “We’re very proud of what we were able to achieve,” said Maria Chavez, an RN in the telemetry oncology unit. “We now have an agreement that we think will improve our recruitment and retention rates of RNs, including our vastly expanded educational program that offers RNs tuition assistance and more.”
Maine Can Now Order Employers to Pay Workers Back Pay and Damages for Missed Wages: A new law went into effect Friday in Maine that will give the state Department of Labor more tools to hold businesses accountable for failure to pay workers the wages they are rightfully owed. Aimed at fighting wage theft, this legislation empowers the Labor Department to order an employer to pay both the unpaid wages as well as damages equal to twice the amount of those wages with interest. The bill is a major win in the effort to combat a widespread issue. The Maine Center for Economic Policy reports that minimum wage violations in Maine amounted to an estimated $30 million in 2017. Additionally, they found that between 2021 to 2023, employers who were caught violating wage and hour laws paid an average penalty of just $9.61 per violation. To make it worse, only 10.7% of the assessed fines were actually paid. “In my 25 years working in the construction industry I have seen countless examples of disreputable contractors taking advantage of non-union workers and cheating them out of their hard-earned wages and benefits,” said Maine AFL-CIO vice president and Ironworkers Local 7 member, Grant Provost. “When the punishment for violating wage and hour protections is just a slap on the wrist, companies have a perverse incentive to break the law and treat fines as a cost of doing business. This law will finally put some teeth in our labor laws to hold corporate lawbreakers accountable and ensure working Mainers are paid fully for an honest day’s work.”
NLRB Rules in Favor of NPEU Over Member’s Illegal Termination: The Nonprofit Professional Employees Union (NPEU) is celebrating a huge win after the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) ruled on Wednesday that the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) acted illegally when it terminated a worker who was punished for raising concerns about poor working conditions at the nonprofit. NPEU, a local of the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE), represents professionals employed at more than 50 nonprofit organizations. An administrative law judge for the agency found that the ACLU did in fact violate the National Labor Relations Act by denying NPEU member Kate Oh a transfer and discharging her in retaliation for exercising her right to engage in protected concerted activities. As a remedy, the judge ordered the ACLU to offer her reinstatement and to make her whole for any loss of earnings and other benefits. “This decision sends a clear message: no one is above the law, including and especially powerful management officials claiming to champion civil liberties with their words while illegally doing the opposite with their actions,” said Oh. “I am deeply grateful for my union having my back and for an NLRB that seeks to vindicate workers' rights.” Amy Chin-Lai, president of NPEU, added: “We are thrilled with the NLRB’s decision, which protects the fundamental rights of workers to advocate for better working conditions and speak out without fear of retaliation. Kate Oh’s dedication to her colleagues and her resilience in the face of unlawful treatment exemplify the spirit of our union. I am proud to call her a union sister. We look forward to finishing a first contract for all of our ACLU workers who fight for civil liberties, including Kate.”
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 08/19/2024 - 10:24Tags: Organizing
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Torrance Nurses Ratify New Contract by Overwhelming Majority
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.
Registered nurses (RNs) at Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center in Torrance, California, voted late last week with 89% supporting the ratification of a new three-year contract.
The RNs are represented by the California Nurses Association, an affiliate of National Nurses United (NNU), and have been bargaining for this agreement since April of this year. Thanks to the bargaining unit’s unfaltering unity—including during an informational picket in June—members are celebrating a powerful new contract that secures critical provisions members need to continue delivering quality care to patients. Highlights of the deal include strengthened health and safety measures, the establishment of an equity and inclusion committee focused on diversity, language to ensure nurses can take their breaks with safe staffing levels and a 14.5% across-the-board wage increase over the three-year term.
“We’re very proud of what we were able to achieve,” said Maria Chavez, an RN in the telemetry oncology unit. “We now have an agreement that we think will improve our recruitment and retention rates of RNs, including our vastly expanded educational program that offers RNs tuition assistance and more.”
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 08/19/2024 - 10:04Hitting the Picket Lines: 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.
Stark Comparison: Union Leaders Praise Tim Walz as J.D. Vance Tries To Rebrand GOP As Pro-Labor: “As a former high school teacher, Walz was once a union member himself. Long before Walz joined the national ticket, he helped make Minnesota one of the most worker-friendly states in the country. ‘He's done great work here with labor, and we appreciate his willingness to always be at the table with us,’ said Bernie Burnham, the president of Minnesota AFL-CIO, the president of Minnesota American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO). ‘When you see Tim Walz, you can see he's as comfortable getting down the floor and talking to a toddler as he is listening to senior citizens and hearing about what their needs are,’ Burnham said.”
Striking SAG-AFTRA Video Game Actors To Hit Picket Lines for Second Day: “Striking SAG-AFTRA video game performers plan to picket outside Disney Character Voices Thursday—the union's second picketing event since it walked off the job on July 23 to highlight a dispute it says focuses on an unwillingness by top gaming companies to protect voice actors from the emergence of artificial intelligence.”
UAW Suit Against Trump and Musk Breaks New Ground: “Trump’s praise of Musk’s illegal firings didn’t surprise the AFL-CIO. ‘Scab recognizes scab,’ it tweeted. ‘Greedy bosses aren’t just laughing at workers in smoke-filled backrooms anymore,’ federation President Liz Shuler elaborated in a statement. ‘They’re broadcasting it for the world to hear. It’s no surprise coming from Trump and Elon Musk—two notorious union-busters who boast a combined record of crossing picket lines, underpaying workers, flouting health and safety laws, and retaliating against workers for demanding the rights and fair pay we deserve.’”
Trump Gutted Federal Employee Unions. They Believe He'd Do It Again: “Labor unions are among Kamala Harris’ most fervent backers in her run for president, and federal employee unions especially so. Not only do they love her unabashed support for labor, they also fear what her opponent Donald Trump might do if he’s elected president again. It’s not hyperbole to say that since becoming vice president, Harris has played a key role in bringing federal employee unions back from the brink.”
Walz Gives Remarks at Labor Union Convention in Los Angeles: “Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz addressed members of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) union at their convention in Los Angeles Tuesday afternoon. The visit by the Democratic vice presidential candidate comes as the Harris-Walz ticket looks to solidify its base, including with organized labor. AFSCME is one of several major labor organizations, including other constituent unions within the AFL-CIO, that have given strong support to the Democratic Party ticket.”
The Animation Guild Starts Negotiating with Studios: “Following a weekend of solidarity events, The Animation Guild (IATSE 839) officially began its contract negotiations yesterday with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers. TAG members and supporters turned out in droves at a rally in Burbank on Saturday (August 10), with support also pouring in online through the #StandWithAnimation hashtag. Industry veterans like Genndy Tartakovsky (Samurai Jack), James Baxter (The Lion King), Peter Ramsey (Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse) and Rebecca Sugar (Steven Universe) were among an estimated 2000-plus attendees—more than double the crowd that showed up for a previous rally in March 2022. ‘To look out at this sea of people the weekend before we actually go in for negotiations was really inspiring,’ says storyboard artist Kaitrin Snodgrass (My Little Pony: A New Generation).”
Recent Contracts Give Amtrak Workers Big Raises: “Two recently ratified contracts, one with the Transport Workers and the other with the Electrical Workers, have given on-board Amtrak workers and the passenger train system’s electricians historically large raises, the unions stated. Both contracts feature 34.1% compounded raises over seven years, retroactive to July 2022 and run through the end of 2028. The contract with Transport Workers Local 1460 covers 360 Amtrak on-board service workers, including train attendants and cafe car workers. Amtrak’s pact with IBEW’s of Railroad System Council 7 covers 1,200 electrical workers. ‘Amtrak on-board workers are a critical part of our nation’s transportation system and this contract includes essential quality-of-life wins,’ TWU President John Samuelsen said in a statement.”
Woodland Park Zoo Workers Reach Tentative Agreement On New Contract: “The Joint Crafts Council (JCC) Coalition of Unions, representing approximately 200 Woodland Park Zoo employees, has reached a tentative agreement with zoo management on a new contract, according to a statement released by the union on Monday. The agreement, which is fully recommended by the union’s negotiations committee, is now subject to ratification by the union members. The proposed contract follows months of negotiations centered on key issues, including affordable healthcare, equitable wages, and the long-term well-being of the animals. The JCC Coalition of Unions represents 34 different classifications of zoo workers, including animal keepers, veterinary technicians, carpenters, and laborers.”
S&P 500 CEOs Made 268 Times What the Typical Worker Made Last Year, Report Says: CEO Payflation Strikes Again: “‘Today, the very CEOs who benefited most from Trump’s tax gift to the wealthy are making 268 times what their workers are making. And while corporate profits and stock prices surge, working people’s wages aren’t keeping up,’ Fred Redmond, secretary-treasurer of the AFL-CIO, said in a statement.”
I Helped Organize An Architect's Union: “Unionization in design industries is approaching a tipping point. In July, three different sectors achieved major victories for the labor movement. At Blizzard, a video game developer where other members have already unionized, more than 500 employees formed a ‘wall-to-wall’ union. Workers at the Apple Store in Towson, Maryland—the first such store to unionize at the world’s most famous design company—ratified their first contract. And finally, my colleagues and I at Bernheimer Architecture (BA) ratified the first collectively bargained contract at a private-sector architecture office.”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 08/16/2024 - 10:25Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Crooked Media Union Members Unanimously Ratify Contract with Wage Increases, AI Protection
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 Crooked Media union, an affiliate of the Writers Guild of America East (WGAE), unanimously ratified their first contract, with gains including minimum starting salaries of $80,000, protections against artificial intelligence (AI) and a minimum of 49 days of paid time off. The $80,000 minimum salary rises to $84,000 in 2027 and the three-year agreement includes an immediate 15% increase to base salaries; 30 days’ notice from the company if AI is to be used; increased health insurance coverage; and a minimum of 13 weeks severance. The 61-member unit of Crooked Media produces podcasts, including "Pod Save America" and "Lovett or Leave It."
“Today, members of the Crooked Media Workers Union ratified its first contract with a unanimous yes and 100% participation. It’s one thing to talk about the power of unions; it’s another to actually do the work. We’re pleased to have secured a fair, progressive contract, and for those wins to set a new standard for the industry at large. If we inspire workers at one other company to stand up together, fight for each other, and insist on what they deserve, this has all been worth it,” representatives from the Crooked Media Workers Union said.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 08/16/2024 - 10:12Fed Up and Fired Up: 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:
Equity Endorses @ElissaSlotkin for United States Senate!
“Rep. Slotkin has proven to be a strong ally to our members with her service in the House,” said Al Vincent Jr., executive director of Actors’ Equity Association.
Read our full press release:https://t.co/jDQFd8iyls pic.twitter.com/AnufM4LPRA
— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) August 9, 2024
AFGE:
AFGE activists are excited to discuss policies and shape our union’s future.#AFGERising pic.twitter.com/uM0nNw09Jv
— AFGE (@AFGENational) August 15, 2024
AFSCME:
.@AFLCIO President @LizShuler makes it clear: Workers across America are fed up, fired up and waking up to the life-changing power of a union.
We are organizing like never before! pic.twitter.com/3zc7hxhIqK
— AFSCME (@AFSCME) August 14, 2024
Alliance for Retired Americans:
It's official: Medicare drug price negotiation will save seniors and taxpayers billions. #InflationReductionAct https://t.co/5PEu7m3wNW https://t.co/mluVHRuPN9
— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) August 15, 2024
Amalgamated Transit Union:
Local 1505-Winnipeg, MB calls on Winnipeg Transit to improve safety for riders and our members. #NotOneMorehttps://t.co/A5MLZfvKVo
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) August 15, 2024
American Federation of Teachers:
Are you absolutely sure that you're registered to vote?
Couldn't hurt to check.
Visit https://t.co/lfN1JDpjKD to confirm your voter registration status, and share this to your friends so they do the same! #AFTvotes pic.twitter.com/XV0o3rtfPt
— AFT (@AFTunion) August 14, 2024
American Postal Workers Union:
Let's Build A Better Post Office: Jacob O'Neil from NH is concerned about his local branch: "When my post office is down one or two clerks, it becomes a full blown postal crisis. We deserve more than one day off every two weeks."
Sign the petition: https://t.co/DQ2q2AvNJR pic.twitter.com/BUE5dTP0jT
— The American Postal Workers Union - APWU (@APWUnational) August 10, 2024
Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:
"We have been standing up for good jobs & to push forward for American workers. [@KamalaHarris] is signing off on all of her rallies with "When we fight we win!" That's a labor slogan, she's showing through and through she is with labor." @FlyingWithSara pic.twitter.com/CzQNDcszmB
— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) August 12, 2024
Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers:
In the latest #bctgmvoices podcast, B&C Pension Fund Manager Elizabeth Briere answers this question and many others about the future expectations of the B&C Pension Fund.
Share this with your members and find the full Pension Q&A here 👉 https://t.co/KTh9BQxQqE #laborradiopod pic.twitter.com/ONaG3c4pjD
— BCTGM International (@BCTGM) August 2, 2024
Boilermakers:
Our #Boilermakers 65th School for Workers Advanced Training Institute is happening this week with the University of Wisconsin, Madison. Here's to a great week of learning for our brothers and sisters at SFW! 🎓 pic.twitter.com/p8aI02AAdI
— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) August 14, 2024
Bricklayers:
Each year, the IL State Fair Twilight Parade marches through Springfield, announcing the annual 11 day showcase of Illinois agriculture and entertainment.@RepNikkiB was in attendance and showed her support of the BAC while taking a moment with Brandon Pittman from Local 8 of IL. pic.twitter.com/1Cp3KCfkJh
— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) August 15, 2024
Communications Workers of America:
CWA members at the Penn Square Apple Store in Oklahoma City, OK voted YES to authorize a strike as bargaining over their first union contract has stalled. https://t.co/NDjOHVGq1j
— CWA (@CWAUnion) August 12, 2024
Department for Professional Employees:
ICYMI: Apple TV visual effects professionals voted to join together in union with @IATSE https://t.co/Z8IlD1VelM
— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) August 11, 2024
Electrical Workers:
"Donald Trump called the Biden-Harris clean energy plan the 'Green scam' at the recent RNC convention. This plan is not a scam, and repealing it would pull the rug out from American workers." - Ricardo Villafan, #IBEW Local 640 https://t.co/ehoNxeMTHV
— IBEW (@IBEW) August 14, 2024
Heat and Frost Insulators:
Your mental health matters.
We are proud to partner with Perspectives & Youturn to provide a program that is FREE to our members & their family — offering 24/7 support.
➡️Learn more: https://t.co/Ev8xkylmMd #InsulatorsUnion #Insulators #InsulatorPride #HFIAW #mentalhealth pic.twitter.com/RTMvCheXo4
— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) August 15, 2024
International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers:
IFPTE Executive Officers Welcome Tim Walz to the Democratic Presidential Tickethttps://t.co/fIqygxZHSO
— IFPTE (@IFPTE) August 6, 2024
International Labor Communications Association:
WORKSHOP ANNOUNCEMENT: our friends from @Time_of_Day Media will be presenting “From Memes To Member Power: Harnessing Paid Digital Advertising to Mobilize Workers and Win Campaigns.”
Join us at the ILCA-CALM Mini Conference in NYC, Sept 5-7: https://t.co/mfkdKjxfZU pic.twitter.com/LqPoVu9LhP
— International Labor Communications Association (@ILCAonline) August 1, 2024
Labor Heritage Foundation:
2024 Labor Day Labor Arts Calendar Preview - NoVa Labor Book Club: Technofeudalism: What Killed Capitalism Tuesday, August 27; 7:30 PM via Zoom. Big tech has replaced capitalism’s twin pillars. pic.twitter.com/HyXfXJ3tBY
— Labor Heritage (@LaborHeritage1) August 15, 2024
Laborers:
#LIUNA has always stood strong defending our rights and will continue to protect our livelihoods for generations to come. #FeelThePower #MarchToAMillion pic.twitter.com/Z84Bp27d6S
— LIUNA (@LIUNA) August 15, 2024
Machinists:
Happening this am 28 @IAMDistrict141 Remote Reservations agents are participating in a Reservations Summit at the @IAMW3Center . The week long class will be sharing information topics such as Grievance handling at the third step level and arbitration, EAP de-escalation… pic.twitter.com/8CRbT8ZtwJ
— Machinists Union (@MachinistsUnion) August 14, 2024
Musical Artists:
BREAKING UNION NEWS: AGMA Issues Do Not Work Order for Dallas Black Dance Theatre - https://t.co/wJzwJ5AYrc @TexasAFLCIO @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/qEdpqEhqqY
— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) August 12, 2024
National Air Traffic Controllers Association:
Get ready to be at @NATCACFS 2024! CFS is the premier aviation safety conference uniting industry leaders, innovators & professionals. After August 18, hotel rooms in NATCA’s room block are no longer guaranteed and are subject to availability.https://t.co/fOeuta2WOI pic.twitter.com/B5N55UEqPK
— NATCA (@NATCA) August 14, 2024
National Association of Letter Carriers:
NALC is grateful for your support of the Protect Our Letter Carriers Act (H.R. 7629)! This bipartisan and urgently needed legislation is a crucial step toward keeping letter carriers safe on the job. Learn more at https://t.co/ylwbV47RZY. #EnoughIsEnough https://t.co/s9dbEpATe4
— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) August 14, 2024
National Nurses United:
The nurses united will never be defeated! 💪 @nynurses https://t.co/o5wtG0evoH
— NationalNursesUnited (@NationalNurses) August 14, 2024
NFL Players Association:
175 kids, 20 teams and a countless memories. Mike Evans gave back to his hometown community of Galveston, TX. and organized a free youth basketball league and camp. This campaign supported his “Mike Evans Family Foundation” which he and his wife, Ashli started in 2017. pic.twitter.com/BUc070UKBD
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) August 9, 2024
Office and Professional Employees:
When private equity takes over — at hospitals, newspapers, tech companies, or factories — workers and their communities bear the impact.
PE's domination of the video relay service industry — relied upon by Deaf and hearing-impaired people across the U.S. — is no different. 👇 https://t.co/6EB26ID6AE
— OPEIU | #UnionStrong (@OPEIU) August 7, 2024
Painters and Allied Trades:
We want to send a big shout-out to our members in DC 57 in Pittsburgh, PA, who volunteered to give a fresh coat of paint to the Adult and Teen Challenge PA recovery center, a rehab facility offering assistance to those in our community struggling with substance issues.
This is… pic.twitter.com/BLBFaOGwcX
— IUPAT (@GoIUPAT) August 15, 2024
Plasterers and Cement Masons:
Project 2025 wants Congress & DOL to exempt small business, first-time, non-willful violators from OSHA fines issued by, even potentially in egregious cases of employer malpractice. https://t.co/3Y0j8V9TVC
— OPCMIA International (@opcmiaintl) August 15, 2024
Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:
"It's really an emergency." Sophia works the night shift at an NYC department store, and would feel safer if there were panic buttons.
Sophia is calling on @GovKathyHochul to sign the #RetailWorkerSafety Act into law. Will you join her? Write your email: https://t.co/y4aig8N4PI pic.twitter.com/kypLMtqiaY
— RWDSU (@RWDSU) August 14, 2024
Roofers and Waterproofers:
If you’re working 6 or more feet above a lower level, your employer is required to provide you with fall protection – learn more at: https://t.co/SS3wZ2YgbS #roofersafety365 pic.twitter.com/TVHPKx8hRW
— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) August 14, 2024
SAG-AFTRA:
The video game companies offered insufficient and incomplete A.I. protections. SAG-AFTRA's A.I. proposals include vital protections, and THAT is why we're on strike until the employers #LevelUpTheContract. #VideoGameStrike #SagAftraStrong pic.twitter.com/qlPgBJlnsz
— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) August 15, 2024
Solidarity Center:
Workers were denied the right to establish or join a union in 75% of countries. Freedom of association is a fundamental @ilo worker right. Every worker should be able to join a union. Period.https://t.co/5NtQVVRdBv@ituc#RightsIndex2024 pic.twitter.com/zcxmg4hPOJ
— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) August 12, 2024
The NewsGuild-CWA:
BIG NEWS 🚨Workers at the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette — the longest continuous strike in the US — are one step closer to winning their strike!
The NLRB has filed an injunction against the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette over numerous labor law violations
Read more:https://t.co/zoapxvRkgF
— NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) August 15, 2024
Theatrical Stage Employees:
IATSE Sisters are shining bright at the 2024 @ualelabor Women’s Summer School ready to learn, share, and lead.
Strong women, strong unions! #UnionStrong #IAWomenUp pic.twitter.com/7xES5yp4RU
— IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) August 15, 2024
Transport Workers Union:
Under @MTA Chair Lieber, NYC’s Subway became more dangerous for Transit Workers. A @twulocal100 Trackworker was killed in Nov. @FTA_DOT uncovered 38 near-miss events involving workers in 2023 – up 58% from 2022. https://t.co/n5iTaJUIfJ
— TWU (@transportworker) August 15, 2024
Transportation Trades Department:
Solidarity with @MEBAUnion as they call out chronic understaffing that has thrown the Washington Ferry System into crisis.
Decades of underinvestment & poor management have created a dire situation that relies on overtime to keep the system afloat. https://t.co/Hqfm3mXjiV
— TTD | America's Transportation Unions (@TTDAFLCIO) August 8, 2024
UAW:
There is only one answer to the threat we face as a nation.
The answer is solidarity.#StandUpUAW pic.twitter.com/GPRS3O5Z7l
— UAW (@UAW) August 9, 2024
Union Veterans Council:
We proudly call Gov. @Tim_Walz one of our own here at the Union Veterans Council. As a card-carrying Union Vet, he has worked closely with us to pass vital veterans' legislation and support working families. 🇺🇸 #UnionStrong #StandWithWalz https://t.co/cSL1NJVrpP
— Union Veterans Council🪖✊ (@unionveterans) August 11, 2024
UNITE HERE:
During the pandemic, companies thrived while workers suffered financial loss.
Janal knows what a true family feels like – it’s when UNITE HERE members step up to fight for a better life. This year, 40K+ hotel workers across the U.S. and Canada are getting ready to do just that. pic.twitter.com/sbLb73XPCR
— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) August 15, 2024
United Food and Commercial Workers:
ICYMI: Dina Velasquez Escalante, a poultry worker and Local 663 steward in Minnesota, sat down with @workdaymagazine to share her thoughts on the fight to protect immigrant workers and experience in the industry.
Full Story: https://t.co/yhTauHXd6U pic.twitter.com/hrKCcGfctm
— UFCW (@UFCW) August 15, 2024
United Steelworkers:
Are you ready to vote on November 5?
Whether you plan to drop your ballot in the mail or head to your local polling place – democracy needs you. Make your plan: https://t.co/IvMx95ftKk pic.twitter.com/dm0dK5WcS5
— United Steelworkers #EverybodysUnion (@steelworkers) August 15, 2024
Utility Workers:
Members of @uwua_local_1_2 out early in the morning keeping the power flowing in New York City! #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/dnp2L3HCin
— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) August 15, 2024
Writers Guild of America East:
A huge congrats to our @crooked_union members who held strong to win a benchmark-setting contract with an $80k salary minimum - and LOTS more. Take a look ⬇️💪 #UnionStrong https://t.co/SPKSkQpvbc
— Writers Guild of America East (@WGAEast) August 15, 2024
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 08/15/2024 - 09:54Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Do Good Multnomah Workers Seeking Voluntary Union Recognition
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.
Late last week, shelter, housing, case management and behavioral health workers at nonprofit Do Good Multnomah demanded voluntary recognition after a majority of staff signed authorization cards to join AFSCME.
Founded in 2015, Do Good Multnomah was initially created as a shelter for homeless veterans and has since expanded its services to other populations in the Portland-metro area of Oregon and Vancouver, Washington. Staff at the shelter—which operates through contracts with the county government—work tirelessly to assist community members in crisis access transitional housing, permanent supportive housing, mental health services and other forms of support. Workers are organizing with Oregon AFSCME Council 75 to get the safety protocols, guaranteed leave time, fair wages and good labor practices they need to continue their critical work.
“Burnout and turnover are synonymous with our field,” said case manager Davis Nafshun in an Oregon AFSCME press release. “While the work of getting individuals housing can be so rewarding, it’s also extremely demanding, and it is not made easier by extensive short staffing problems and a lack of resources. At our location, we have no air conditioning. The day-to-day life of both the people we help and Do Good staff would largely improve from having a voice at the table in the decisions made at our job.”
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 08/15/2024 - 09:38Nothing Is Over Until It's Over: 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:
A median worker from @Abercrombie & Fitch would have to work starting in 4,053 B.C. in order to earn what the CEO made in 2023.
For comparison, the Great Pyramid of Giza was built circa 2,560 B.C.
View the 2024 @AFLCIO Executive Paywatch Report: https://t.co/JMkm20hjJT
— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) August 8, 2024
Arizona AFL-CIO:
Today @ActSecJulieSu visited Arizona to discuss the dangers workers face from extreme heat, both indoor and outdoors. Heat is the leading weather-related cause of death in Arizona the U.S.
A THREAD 🧵 ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/pwKdMgKR3u
— Arizona AFL-CIO (@ArizonaAFLCIO) August 8, 2024
California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:
Labor Day is just around the corner. The California Labor Movement - organized by our Central Labor Councils - have events up and down the state. Make your plans to join your brothers & sisters on our state’s greatest holiday! https://t.co/hM8dz5ZSnB
— California Federation of Labor Unions (@CaliforniaLabor) August 14, 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:
The Connecticut AFL-CIO strongly condemns the anti-Semitic remarks made by Rep. Figueroa. @ehawthorne3 pic.twitter.com/Fwvi0lj7hy
— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) August 13, 2024
Florida AFL-CIO:
We need more of this from our leaders...and less weird culture war nonsense. https://t.co/I1QIkPU7He
— Florida AFL-CIO (@FLAFLCIO) August 6, 2024
Georgia State AFL-CIO:
🎉 Get ready for a day filled with unity and fun! Join us this 🗓️ Saturday, August 17th, from 1 PM to 4 PM for Solidarity Saturday hosted by the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists, Metro Atlanta Chapter! #SolidaritySaturday #CBTU #UnionStrong #1u #AtlantaEvents #LaborRights pic.twitter.com/ixBiKlJ0Yu
— Georgia AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOGeorgia) August 13, 2024
Illinois AFL-CIO:
Congratulations to our Equity Director, Chynna Hampton, on her graduation from the Edgar Fellows! pic.twitter.com/YlVTnFTIoT
— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) August 14, 2024
Indiana State AFL-CIO:
Gov Walz knows a thing or two about our values, because he lived them for years a member himself. https://t.co/GSg1EFDrMu
— Indiana AFL-CIO (@INAFLCIO) August 6, 2024
Maine AFL-CIO:
“This law will finally put some teeth in our labor laws to hold corporate lawbreakers accountable and ensure working Mainers are paid fully for an honest day’s work,” Maine AFL-CIO vice president and Ironworkers Local 7 member Grant Provost said. https://t.co/TOGodfRLXi
— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) August 12, 2024
Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
Join the Labor Movement in Milton on Saturday, August 17 to knock doors for proud @IUPAT_DC35 member and candidate for State Rep. @tonyking4rep.
We will be meeting at 9:30am at Heritage Hall, 114 Granite Ave. pic.twitter.com/as47NosQOV
— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) August 14, 2024
Minnesota AFL-CIO:
Among MN’s publicly traded companies, Target, C.H. Robinson, Best Buy, UnitedHealth Group & General Mills had the largest pay disparities between CEOs & typical workers in 2023, according to the @AFLCIO's annual report on executive pay. https://t.co/5RffhBLCge #1u #Paywatch
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) August 12, 2024
Missouri AFL-CIO:
206%: The increase in public and private spending on building manufacturing plants in the U.S. since the start of the Biden-Harris administration. Don't take our word for it: https://t.co/JPg7ntt8E5 pic.twitter.com/dc572sGVZ1
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) August 14, 2024
Nebraska State AFL-CIO:
"Nothing is over until its over." Kenny Merritt, President BCTGM Local 50G. We stand with you! #ItsBetterInAUnion #UnionStrong #1union pic.twitter.com/EcdS3GdHIO
— Nebraska State AFL-CIO (@NE_AFLCIO) August 7, 2024
Nevada State AFL-CIO:
82 days until Election Day! We need your help canvassing and phone banking THIS WEEKEND. Two locations, lots of food, all the solidarity✊🏻✊🏼✊🏾 pic.twitter.com/0yYBkKQYqD
— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) August 14, 2024
New Hampshire AFL-CIO:
We are thrilled to announce the 2024 @NHAFLCIO Labor Day Breakfast Keynote Speaker, @JBPritzker!@JBPritzker is a true ally to union members everywhere!
Get your tickets today using this link: https://t.co/iLbOzbwMbq#NHPolitics #1u #LaborVotes pic.twitter.com/ppCGbVZNe9
— New Hampshire AFL-CIO (@NHAFLCIO) August 13, 2024
New Jersey State AFL-CIO:
At the New Jersey State AFL-CIO, we stand in solidarity with Governor Walz on key issues for working families. pic.twitter.com/Hn8mW1uFSq
— New Jersey AFL-CIO (@NJAFLCIO) August 7, 2024
New York State AFL-CIO:
Solidarity with our UAW family at Cornell University fighting for a fair contract! #StandUpCornell #UnionStrong https://t.co/BQwQQa6d7u
— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) August 12, 2024
North Carolina State AFL-CIO:
We're with @votebraxton! "Despite running to represent millions of our state's workers, Luke Farley is anti-worker, anti-union, anti-minimum wage, and is even opposed to federal heat safety regulations for workers." https://t.co/NdESnoIFYl #1u #ncpol
— NC State AFL-CIO // #CountMeIn (@NCStateAFLCIO) August 12, 2024
Ohio AFL-CIO:
To be clear, the biggest organization pushing to pass right to work laws, end public @AFLCIO unions and attack increasing the minimum wage is all in for Mr. #WageTheft @berniemoreno. Meanwhile, @SherrodBrown restored pensions to millions of Americans and pushes for the #ProAct. https://t.co/nYWP5dX9dM
— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) August 11, 2024
Oregon AFL-CIO:
Stand with @OFNHP technical employees at St Charles Medical Center. They’re picketing on 8/15 to demand that management agree to common sense proposals that will help secure safe staffing and living wages for healthcare workers. #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/PSWlGL1nST
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) August 10, 2024
Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:
“I believe there are blue-collar voters who are willing to listen. They want to hear facts. They want to hear about achieving real results. I do believe that Walz can reach those voters.” — President Angela Ferritto#Labor2024 #UnionVotershttps://t.co/sYyHALfhLT
— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) August 13, 2024
Texas AFL-CIO:
We stand in complete solidarity with these incredibly talented performers who spoke up together through @AGMusicalArtist for better livelihoods. Nothing short of reinstatement and a fair contract is acceptable. https://t.co/19dRSD5HGT
— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) August 14, 2024
Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:
Congratulations to the workers at Woodland Park Zoo on reaching a TA on a new contract!@teamsters117 @Laborers242 @IATSELocal15 @IbewLocal46 @IUPAT_DC5 https://t.co/CGpapBB5xF
— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) August 14, 2024
Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
Voters reject constitutional amendments seeking to give Legislature power over federal funds https://t.co/uVCV8nTBv9 via @madisondotcom
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) August 14, 2024
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 08/14/2024 - 09:52Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Maryland Cannabis Workers Join UFCW
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.
Workers at the Apothecarium Dispensary in Cumberland, Maryland, voted 25-0 to organize with United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 27. The workers are seeking to address longstanding issues, including poor wages, unaffordable benefits, safety concerns and a lack of support from the parent company, TerrAscend Corp.
“The workers had been increasingly agitated about their pay and working conditions since TerrAscend Corp. bought Allegany Medical Marijuana Dispensary,” the workers said in a statement. “Working conditions at the dispensary have been abysmal since the corporate acquisition. Workers have had to endure leaking ceilings, bathrooms in disrepair, exposed electrical wires in the workplace and air conditioning that doesn’t properly circulate throughout the building.”
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 08/14/2024 - 09:09
