Women's History Month Profiles: Michelle Christen
For Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Michelle Christen of the Utility Workers (UWUA).
Michelle Christen serves as the second vice president of UWUA Local 601, which represents approximately 1,200 customer service workers at Public Service Electric & Gas in New Jersey. She has been instrumental in negotiating labor contracts, including an agreement ratified in April 2023 that secured a 13.64% wage increase over four years and recognized a bilingual call center position with additional compensation. In 2022, she collaborated with Local 601 members to organize fundraisers for the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, contributing to cancer research and support.
Kenneth Quinnell Sat, 03/15/2025 - 09:46Tags: Women's History Month
The Department of People Who Work for a Living: 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.
AFL-CIO Rolls Out Week of Mass Action vs. Trump’s War on Workers: “Taking the fight against the GOP Trump regime’s war on workers from Congress and the courts but also to the streets, the AFL-CIO’s new Department of People Who Work for a Living—a title satirizing Elon Musk’s so-called Department of Government Efficiency—plans a week of actions nationwide from March 17 to 23, 2025. The events will include town halls; mass mobilization to descend on congressional offices (especially those of its ruling Republicans); a ‘democracy board,’ where people can share stories of the personal impact of the Musk-Trump carnage; and flooding Capitol Hill with calls and e-mails.”
Trump Administration Must Rehire Thousands of Fired Workers, Judge Rules: “A federal judge on Thursday ordered six federal agencies to rehire thousands of workers with probationary status who had been fired as part of President Trump’s government-gutting initiative. Ruling from the bench, Judge William J. Alsup of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California went further than he had previously, finding that the Trump administration’s firing of probationary workers had essentially been done unlawfully and by fiat through the Office of Personnel Management, the government’s human resources arm. He directed the Departments of the Treasury, Veterans Affairs, Agriculture, Defense, Energy and the Interior to comply with his order and offer to reinstate any employees who were improperly terminated. His order stemmed from a lawsuit brought by employee unions who challenged the legality of the mass firings.”
Second Federal Judge Orders Temporary Reinstatement of Thousands of Probationary Employees Fired by the Trump Administration: “A second federal judge ruled Thursday that thousands of probationary employees laid off en masse by the Trump administration must be temporarily reinstated to their jobs. The new temporary restraining order from Senior Judge James Bredar, an Obama appointee, covers 18 agencies and will last two weeks, as a challenge to the terminations from Democratic state attorneys general moves forward.”
More than 1,000 March in D.C. Against Possible Health Care Cuts: “According to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office, the House Republicans’ budget goals can’t be reached without cuts to Medicaid. Millions of Americans rely on Medicaid, including children, older adults, people with disabilities and low-income adults. ‘Why would we do that to folks? That is cruel,’ Jackson-Hill said. ‘It’s evil. It’s hatefulness at a scale I have never seen before. And it’s actually our government doing it to us.’ Analilia Mejia is co-executive director for the Center for Popular Democracy, which organized the demonstration. ‘Taking away those resources will not happen silently, and we will not stand for it,’ Mejia said. ‘We are going to push through this budget reconciliation.’ She was impressed with the turnout, which included members of the nation’s largest nurses union, National Nurses United (NNU).”
Whole Foods Workers Push Forward on Union Effort: “That unionization effort by workers at the Amazon-owned grocery chain will receive a hearing from a regional National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) panel on Wednesday, which is likely to be appealed by the company and to head to the full NLRB later this year. ‘I was on the right side of the law,’ United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 1776 President Wendell Young IV told Supermarket News.”
Weingarten (President of the American Federation of Teachers [AFT]: Trump’s Education Department Crusade Is a Cowardly Betrayal of America’s Children: “Many of America’s global competitors—and adversaries—are no doubt cheering President Donald Trump’s plan to dismantle the Department of Education. They know that countries who outeducate the rest of the world will outcompete it. And now brand-new Education Secretary Linda McMahon and Trump want to neuter, if not completely shutter, the entity that helps give all children in the United States access to the great public school education they deserve. On Tuesday, the department announced plans to cut nearly half its staff. McMahon says these catastrophic firings, alongside hundreds of so-called buyouts, are about ‘efficiency, accountability and ensuring that resources are directed where they matter most: to students, parents and teachers.’ The reality is far more cowardly.”
Labor Board Member Returns to Work Six Weeks After Trump Fired Her: “The first Black woman to chair the NLRB returned to the agency Monday with a hero’s welcome after a judge ruled the previous week that she was illegally fired. Dozens of staff members cheered, clapped and waved signs that read, ‘Welcome back, Gwynne,’ as Wilcox returned to the independent federal agency charged with protecting employee rights.”
Union Members Ratify First-Ever Contract at Bloomington Barnes & Noble: “After about a year of contract negotiations, Barnes & Noble workers in Bloomington voted Saturday to ratify their first-ever contract. Workers at the Empire Street store join just three others in the country as members of the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union [RWDSU] with ratified contracts—all of which are based in New York City—and voted to approve their first contracts within the past week. ‘Workers at Barnes & Noble should be incredibly proud of what they’ve accomplished together in these historic first union contracts from Illinois to New York,’ said RWDSU President Stuart Appelbaum in a press release. ‘United in their fight for increased safety in their stores, it was their voices across the table that won. Now, we can finally say their longtime safety needs are codified in union contracts, which also include industry standard–setting wage increases, union health care and more.’”
Las Vegas Strip Reaches Full Union Coverage as Fontainebleau Signs First Labor Deal: “The Culinary and Bartenders Unions have reached a historic agreement with Fontainebleau Las Vegas, marking the first time in the 90-year history of the Las Vegas Strip that all casino resorts are 100% unionized. This milestone results from a yearlong process and the dedicated efforts of thousands of hospitality workers.”
Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act Reintroduced: Bipartisan Efforts to Strengthen Union Power and Protect Workers: “AFL-CIO President and Oregonian Liz Shuler also voiced support for the act, saying, ‘Americans believe in the power of unions, and tens of millions of working people would become union members tomorrow if they could. But American labor law is broken, weighted on the side of the bosses and against the workers.’ She urged elected leaders to advance the legislation to allow workers to ‘stand together and build better lives for themselves and their families.’”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 03/14/2025 - 10:43Women's History Month Profiles: Christina McCafferty
For Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Christina McCafferty of the Electrical Workers (IBEW).
Christina McCafferty is an exemplary model of service through her work as a supervisor, steward, elected treasurer in the Electrical Workers Minority Caucus Chapter 640 and elected officer of IBEW Local 640.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 03/14/2025 - 09:46Tags: Women's History Month
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Unions File Lawsuit Against DHS to Stop the Illegal Termination of TSO 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.
AFGE, the Communications Workers of America (CWA) and the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA-CWA) filed a lawsuit Thursday over the illegal and unilateral termination of a negotiated collective bargaining agreement that covers approximately 47,000 transportation security officers (TSOs).
“This attack on our members is not just an attack on AFGE or transportation security officers. It’s an assault on the rights of every American worker,” said AFGE National President Everett Kelley in a press release. “Tearing up a legally negotiated union contract is unconstitutional, retaliatory and will make the [Transportation Security Administration] experience worse for American travelers.”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 03/14/2025 - 09:44Women's History Month Profiles: Sandy Laemmel
For Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is
Sandy Laemmel’s journey with NALC spans 50 years, starting when she was a teenager running an errand to buy stamps at the post office, where a “We’re Hiring” sign changed her life. From letter carrier to steward and president of Detroit Branch 1, she has dedicated herself to helping others. Since 2022, she’s served as a national trustee. “The common thread is people,” she said. She’s been the person others relied on, but “they’ve given me more in return. It’s truly better to give than receive. From teenager to trustee, I’ve been blessed in ways words can’t express.”
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 03/13/2025 - 10:47Tags: Women's History Month
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Hundreds Rally Outside VA in Wisconsin to Stop DOGE Cuts
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.
Union members and community allies rallied outside the Zablocki Veterans’ Administration (VA) Medical Center in Milwaukee on Friday to protest President Trump and Elon Musk’s cuts to our critical federal workforce.
Workers at the medical center are members of AFGE Local 3, the Wisconsin Federation of Nurses and Health Professionals (WFNHP), American Federation of Teachers (AFT) Local 5000, and the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Wisconsin. Even before these latest funding attacks, nurses, supply technicians, social workers, housekeepers and other staff were already sounding the alarm about low-staffing levels impacting patient care. A recent internal memo published by the Associated Press showed that Musk’s DOGE is pushing to cut an additional 80,000 jobs—a staggering 20% of the VA department staff—which would make caring for the approximately 62,000 patients that come through the Milwaukee facility every year even more difficult.
“Quality health care is a critical need for our veterans,” said Monica Luecking-David, a nurse at the facility and the chapter president of the WFNHP. “None of us are disposable. The VA’s mission could not be achieved without each and every one of us.”
“Federal workers and public sector workers make our country right in countless ways that too often go unnoticed until they are not there. And then our country will come unglued,” said Wisconsin State AFL-CIO President Stephanie Bloomingdale.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 03/13/2025 - 09:53AFT and AFL-CIO Respond to Department of Education Reduction in Force Announcement
Labor leaders and education advocates American Federation of Teachers (AFT) President Randi Weingarten and AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler condemned the Department of Education’s reduction in force announcement.
Weingarten said:
Many of America’s global competitors — and adversaries — are no doubt cheering President Donald Trump’s plan to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education. They know that countries who out-educate the rest of the world will out-compete it. And now brand new Education Secretary Linda McMahon and Trump want to neuter, if not completely shutter, the entity that helps give all children in the United States access to the great public school education they deserve. On Tuesday, the department announced plans to cut nearly half of its staff. McMahon says these catastrophic firings, alongside hundreds of so-called "buyouts," are about "efficiency, accountability, and ensuring that resources are directed where they matter most: to students, parents, and teachers.” The reality is far more cowardly.
...
A gutted department would mean fewer teachers, more crowded classrooms and increased mental health and behavioral challenges for students. We’d most likely see increased absenteeism and decreased graduation rates. Fewer students would be able to obtain the degrees or credentials they need for well-paying jobs, meaning more students would have to settle for low-wage work or simply drop out of the workforce. And many cities and states would have to increase school budgets to make up for these cuts, resulting in higher state and local taxes.
Instead, this move sends a clear message that, in Trump’s America, only kids from wealthy families are entitled to opportunity. How does that help make America great?
...
My union will continue to fight to protect our kids and to fund their future, because it is both the smart and the right thing to do. Last Tuesday, we held over 100 events across the country to protect our kids.
Diverting billions from our children to pay for tax cuts that primarily benefit the wealthy is a callous decision that short-changes everyone. If we want to engage kids, if we want America to be a nation of “explorers, builders, innovators [and] entrepreneurs,” as Trump said in his inaugural address, then logically it follows that we should be investing more in education, not less.
The dreams of millions of kids, and the promise of America, depend on it.
Read the rest of Weingarten's statement.
Shuler said:
Firing half of the staff so that the Department of Education cannot function will jeopardize the resources, programs and protections that give millions of students the opportunity to succeed. Public schools are the cornerstones of our communities: they provide the free, universal education that working families depend on, feed and care for our kids, and create millions of good union jobs. The Department of Education provides critical support to educators and school staff, and financial aid and student loans that put college and trade schools within reach for working families who wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford it.
Access to quality public education is a top priority for the American people, but billionaires like Elon Musk are pushing a Project 2025/DOGE agenda that only boosts the rich and powerful. We urge members of Congress to safeguard our taxpayer dollars by quickly acting to protect services that are essential to American life and provide vital support to our nation’s students, parents and educators.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 03/12/2025 - 12:53Women's History Month Profiles: Anna Rose Sullivan
For Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Anna Rose Sullivan of AFSCME.
For Anna Rose Sullivan, being a public defender is about fairness. Many of her clients lack the financial means to hire a private lawyer. Sullivan works every day to ensure that everyone—regardless of their economic background—receives fair and equal treatment under the law. And through her union, she and her co-workers have negotiated for sustainable caseloads so they can give each case the time and attention it deserves.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 03/12/2025 - 10:08Tags: Women's History Month
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Workers in Utah Ratify State’s First Cannabis Industry Union Contract
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Workers at WholesomeCo in Bountiful, Utah, ratified a union contract, becoming the first cannabis industry workers in Utah to do so. The workers are members of United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 99. The agreement provides guaranteed wage increases over three years; company-provided medical insurance coverage, dental and vision coverage; paid bereavement and parental leave; paid time off and paid holidays and meal breaks; and a ratification bonus. The contract covers delivery fulfillment agents, demand inventory agents, inventory compliance agents, pharmacy fulfillment agents, pharmacy agents and retail display agents at the Bountiful facility.
Local 99 President Jim McLaughlin said the contract was “an important milestone not just for WholesomeCo employees, but for all Utah cannabis workers. With the ratification of this historic contract, WholesomeCo will continue to be a great place to work while helping raise the standard of living for employees industry-wide.”
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 03/12/2025 - 09:54Worker Wins: Taking Back Their Power
Our latest roundup of worker wins includes numerous examples of working people organizing, bargaining and mobilizing for a better life.
Vestas Wind Techs Vote to Join UWUA: Vestas wind turbine technicians in Michigan voted overwhelmingly on Thursday to join Utility Workers (UWUA) Local 223, becoming the international company’s first technicians in North America to do so. Denmark-based Vestas is the largest wind turbine company globally—these newly minted UWUA members perform routine operations and maintenance on 128 different turbines, including major part replacements. Workers initially contacted the union about organizing, with concerns over work-life balance, training and the company’s safety culture. “These workers took a remarkable step forward to take back their power,” said UWUA National President James Slevin. “They were up against a strong anti-union campaign. The company pulled all the usual stunts to try to get them to vote against this union campaign. We welcome these Vestas wind techs to our membership, and we look forward to addressing their key concerns when we sit down to negotiate their first contract.”
AGMA and Cincinnati Opera Announce New Contract: The American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA) and Cincinnati Opera released a joint statement last week announcing the ratification of a new three-year contract. This collective bargaining agreement comes as the opera company is in preparation for its 105th anniversary Summer Festival that will feature the talent of AGMA members onstage and behind the scenes. Highlights of the deal include wage increases, improved workplace protections, new policies addressing core member concerns like artificial intelligence and more. “These negotiations were a testament to the strength and solidarity of the artists of Cincinnati Opera,” said AGMA Counsel Martha Kinsella. “We advocated strongly for meaningful wage increases and achieved the best contractual raises in recent memory. I want to extend my deepest gratitude to our Negotiation Committee, which represented nearly all working groups, for their dedication, strategic thinking, and unwavering advocacy throughout this process.”
Walt Disney Animation Studios Production Workers Ratify Contract: In a vote taken last week, production workers represented by The Animation Guild, IATSE Local 839, officially ratified their first union contract with Walt Disney Animation Studios. The unit covers production coordinators, production supervisors and production managers who first started organizing in 2022—the next year, a supermajority of production workers voted to join TAG. The newly minted contract includes victories like a pension, health care benefits and double-digit increases to minimum wage rates for all job roles. “In Hollywood, we love an underdog story. Our ratification was just that — the underrepresented and underpaid coming together and demanding better pay and equity with our artistic counterparts,” said production supervisor Nicholas Ellingsworth. “In the end, we were heard and seen, and we have a pathway to further improving the conditions in which production management works.”
UAW Members at Ultium Cells Approve Collective Bargaining Agreement: Nearly 1,000 UAW Local 1853 members who work at Ultium Cells in Tennessee voted on Wednesday to ratify their first contract with the electric vehicle (EV) battery manufacturer. A joint venture of General Motors and South Korea's LG Energy Solution, Ultium Cells produces battery cells for EVs at a neighboring assembly plant. The agreement’s highlights include a one-time $3,000 lump sum payment and wages that align with what Ultium Cells workers make at a plant in northeast Ohio, which was the first to unionize. The wages currently start at $26.91 and include increases every year to reach $35 per hour by September 2027. “Ultium workers are setting the bar for Southern workers and charting a brighter future,” said UAW Region 8 Director Tim Smith. “From Georgia to Kentucky to Texas, folks in these new EV plants know they deserve fair pay and benefits, just like union workers before them. And you can bet the UAW is going to stand with them to make sure they get their fair share and a collective voice on the job."
Court Rules Trump’s Firing of NLRB Member Illegal: A federal District Court in Washington, D.C., ruled on Thursday that President Trump acted illegally when he suddenly terminated National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) member Gwynne Wilcox. Judge Beryl A. Howell ordered her to be reinstated to the independent agency tasked with protecting the rights of working people to organize unions. “The court also sent an important message that a president cannot undermine an independent agency by simply removing a member of the board because he disagrees with her decisions,” said AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler. “Working people around the country count on equal justice and fair decision-making from an independent NLRB—and today, because of Wilcox’s commitment to the mission of the NLRB and her refusal to stand by as Trump illegally removed her from the board, the NLRB can get back to work.” Read AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler’s full statement here.
Barnes & Noble Workers Win Historic Union Contracts: On Thursday, Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union-UFCW (RWDSU-UFCW) members announced that they have successfully ratified historic, first-in-the-nation collective bargaining agreements (CBAs) at three New York City Barnes & Noble stores. These new contracts collectively cover more than 200 workers, including staff at the Flagship Union Square store located below the Barnes & Noble corporate headquarters. A central focus for members of the Barnes & Noble Union during negotiations was workplace safety—the union was also active in lobbying for the passage of the Retail Worker Safety Act. Highlights of the CBAs include wages increases, RWDSU-UFCW union health care coverage, language requiring de-escalation training and late night transportation, layoff protections, and more. “Workers at Barnes & Noble should be incredibly proud of what they’ve accomplished together in these historic first union contracts,” said RWDSU-UFCW President Stuart Appelbaum. “United in their fight for increased safety in their stores, it was their voices among others across our union that won increased protections for everyone in the industry through the Retail Worker Safety Act. Today, we can finally say those safety protections are codified in their union contracts, which also include industry standard setting wage increases, union healthcare, and more. A union is the only way to ensure workplace protections are secure—especially now, while laws protecting workers are under attack.”
Gannett Journalists Win Tentative Two-Year Contract Deals: After three years of bargaining and a walkout pledge, journalists represented by The NewsGuild of New York, CWA Local 31003, at six of the largest Gannett-owned papers in New Jersey and New York have reached tentative agreements. The APP-MCJ Guild and the Hudson Valley News Guild bargained separately but have been coordinating closely to secure victories for all the covered newsrooms. Wins include life-changing wage increases, strong salary floors, artificial intelligence guardrails, just cause provisions and more. “This agreement is a testament to their strength, tenacity and solidarity and should serve as proof-positive for other Gannett newsrooms, who should stop asking nicely and start using their collective power to demand what they deserve,” said Asbury Park Press reporter Mike Davis, acting unit chair of the APP-MCJ Guild. “We fought for Gannett to invest in our communities, and in us,” said Journal News reporter Nancy Cutler, acting unit chair of the Hudson Valley News Guild. “And we won.”
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 03/11/2025 - 13:07Tags: Organizing
Get Organized: 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:
Bravo to Executive Director @avincentjr on being recognized for his dedication to advocating for our members in @PoliticsNYnews 2025 Labor Power Players list. Check out the impressive list of labor leaders and advocates who made it this year. https://t.co/qzd9pbyNcy pic.twitter.com/qHnyavBELc
— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) March 12, 2025
AFGE:
Our union is speaking out against cuts to education that will harm American children and school across the nation. pic.twitter.com/0CKD968Nex
— AFGE (@AFGENational) March 11, 2025
AFSCME:
AFSCME stands in solidarity with @AFGENational and the 47,000 unionized TSA agents whose freedom to collectively bargain is under assault. This attack jeopardizes public safety.
Together, with AFGE and the labor movement, we will keep fighting back. https://t.co/6zNOeyTmLd
— AFSCME (@AFSCME) March 12, 2025
Alliance for Retired Americans:
Social Security does not contribute one penny to the national deficit. Republicans shouldn't be looking for "savings" by messing with Americans' earned benefits. https://t.co/ze1MsUtDtn
— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) March 11, 2025
Amalgamated Transit Union:
Our Local 770-Mobile, AL, mobilized to make their voices and demands heard. #ATUStrongerTogether https://t.co/PZsQUN4VnC
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) March 12, 2025
American Federation of Musicians:
News of the Trump Administration’s misguided trade war must remind us of our values and our mission. All musicians have the right to live and work in dignity. At every level of governance, the American Federation of Musicians of the United States and Canada remains committed to… pic.twitter.com/Tbd0DpSUso
— AFM (@The_AFM) March 5, 2025
American Federation of Teachers:
The Trump administration is making changes to the #PSLF system. Thank you @washingtonpost for this helpful breakdown.
📰 https://t.co/JRTG1VanoT pic.twitter.com/LXFeeSlXji
— AFT (@AFTunion) March 12, 2025
American Postal Workers Union:
Join us on our March 20 Day of Action as we make it clear to the country that the U.S Mail is Not For Sale!
📍Find an event near you! ➡️ https://t.co/SoZlz9HBsK https://t.co/Z5PoySKrCc
— The American Postal Workers Union - APWU (@APWUnational) March 10, 2025
Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:
.@AFGENational TSA officers know security best — our country is safer when they have a seat at the table to bargain for economic security and improvements to the job. This is just another attempt to pull apart the government every way they can. https://t.co/semwtG7poZ
— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) March 7, 2025
Boilermakers:
Community service is an excellent way for #Boilermakers locals to give back and boost their PR. See how L-146 helped out at WIN House: https://t.co/LcNgIdEPNZ pic.twitter.com/OSChhtcXu0
— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) March 10, 2025
Bricklayers:
Is your company providing proper ladder safety training?
Join the webinars provided by @American_Ladder to learn about the ladder safety standards and master essential ladder safety skills: https://t.co/kTNJF6NQZc#LadderSafetyMonth pic.twitter.com/RKCdTNgIou
— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) March 12, 2025
Communications Workers of America:
CWA condemns Trump admin’s termination of TSA collective bargaining agreement.
This illegal action puts the safety of the American public at risk, including 80K CWA members who work in the aviation industry as Flight Attendants & Passenger Service Agentshttps://t.co/Ks1IlgnLCV
— CWA (@CWAUnion) March 7, 2025
Department for Professional Employees:
"We now have stools at the registers, locked-in raises and increased rates of pay for positions for three years, and an excellent healthcare package through the RWDSU for our booksellers and baristas that we are very excited about." https://t.co/LT56jcuU1n
— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) March 11, 2025
Electrical Workers:
Sam Taylor founded Taylor Electric Co. in 1922, one of the oldest black-owned businesses in the U.S. Taylor and a group of Black electricians first joined the #IBEW as less-than-full members before a pressure campaign helped them gain full membership. https://t.co/YlWbBivuf4 pic.twitter.com/yGip7STT0R
— IBEW (@IBEW) March 11, 2025
Heat and Frost Insulators:
Celebrating on 125 Years! 🎉
Members of Local 17 along with our International's leadership members, including General President Terry Larkin, gathered to celebrate 125 years of history, solidarity, & what it means to be a part of Local 17.
Local 17’s Business Manager Tom McGrath… pic.twitter.com/ZmAts52ZuD
— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) March 11, 2025
Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:
📣 LCLAA National President, Evelyn DeJesus, and members of the LCLAA DC Metro Chapter proudly joined the opening of "Stories of Belonging", a powerful photo exhibing showcasing the struggles of tepesianos (TPS holders) in their fight for justice pic.twitter.com/z2FzmD2grf
— LCLAA (@LCLAA) March 12, 2025
Labor Heritage Foundation:
🎭 This Week’s Labor Arts Calendar just posted!
📅 Tue: NoVA Arts Union Caucus
🎤 Wed: Labor's Partisans & BVOCAL
🎶 Thu: Labor Heritage Power Hour
📚 Fri: The Road to Rights: Domestic Workers & New Labor Activism
🎬 Sun: Made In Ethiopia
🔗 More info: https://t.co/5xK0MAWAEB pic.twitter.com/5hNEuJHWDP
— Labor Heritage (@LaborHeritage1) March 10, 2025
Laborers:
From strategy sessions at HQ to powerful advocacy on the Hill, LIUNA Public Employees & Non-Construction (#PENC) leaders made their voices heard in DC last week.
They met with Members of Congress to push for the PRO Act, Public Service Freedom to Negotiate Act, Service Contract… pic.twitter.com/wS4gaOivf6
— LIUNA (@LIUNA) March 11, 2025
Machinists:
The @IAMW3Center hosted another lunch for local veterans, as they often have done for several years, providing a social outing for the veterans. Members and W3 staff are honored to sit with the veterans to break bread and chat. ⚙️❤️ #IAMcaring https://t.co/Z7zoRRzyS9
— Machinists Union (@MachinistsUnion) March 9, 2025
Maritime Trades Department:
https://t.co/173YlFsyPT
MTD Backs New Pro-Maritime Legislation
— Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO (@Maritime_Trades) March 12, 2025
Mine Workers:
On January 16, 2025, President Roberts announced to the International Executive Board that he would be retiring at the close of the International Special Convention that will be held in October, 2025, in St. Louis, Missouri.https://t.co/yvaqn7tMIw
— United Mine Workers (@MineWorkers) March 11, 2025
National Air Traffic Controllers Association:
Today, NATCA issued a press release calling on Congress to act now to pass a funding resolution and avoid a government shutdown: https://t.co/A0XIsg8muF#GovernmentShutdown #FederalWorkers #SafetyFirst #AviationSafety pic.twitter.com/XW0ESJlizi
— NATCA (@NATCA) March 12, 2025
National Association of Letter Carriers:
On March 23, we’re putting this fight on the MAP! Join letter carriers across the nation as we #fightlikehell for the universal service Americans rely on.
📢 We’re delivering our message, loud & clear: #HELLNO to dismantling USPS!
Find your local rally ➡️… pic.twitter.com/nYQvUjxCgA
— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) March 11, 2025
National Domestic Workers Alliance:
NEW JERSEY: Your knowledge of your rights is your power!
Here's everything you need to know about your #DomesticWorkersBillofRights, which went into effect on July 1, 2024:https://t.co/cCvYKoh960
— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) March 11, 2025
National Nurses United:
Trans people have always existed — they are our patients, colleagues, neighbors, family and community members.
They will not be erased, ignored, demonized, or ostracized so long as there are nurses in this country with the hearts to care for them! 🏳️⚧️❤️✊
— NationalNursesUnited (@NationalNurses) March 7, 2025
NFL Players Association:
To the players of the UFL: We’ve got your back ✊ pic.twitter.com/0i6Pa2JOwF
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) March 7, 2025
North America's Building Trades Unions:
Big paycheck. Safe job. Better benefits. This is what a union job gets you. pic.twitter.com/9VvCDeeTBN
— The Building Trades (@NABTU) March 12, 2025
Office and Professional Employees:
Congratulations to OPEIU President Tyler Turner on being elected to the @AFLCIO Executive Council. pic.twitter.com/UM1PmqusZk
— OPEIU | #UnionStrong (@OPEIU) March 12, 2025
Painters and Allied Trades:
If you look around today, you’ll see the faces of many women who have pioneered in our union and our skilled trades as the firsts.
They have proven for decades that there is no limit to what women in our union can accomplish. pic.twitter.com/EB9j2XCplY
— IUPAT (@GoIUPAT) March 12, 2025
Professional Aviation Safety Specialists:
Thank you @GerryConnolly for being a champion of federal workforce. Dedicated civil servants are under attack, their work for American people being demeaned. @PASSprezdc Dave Spero proud to stand with you to combat these relentless assaults. #federalemployees #publicservice pic.twitter.com/Wivov8MSuV
— PASS (@PASSNational) March 7, 2025
Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:
CONTRACT VICTORY: congrats to @RWDSU Local 262 members in Union, NJ who make Smarties at Ce De Candy on their new 3-year contract! The agreement includes large wage increases and sees the employer picking up between 85-100% of the medical plan costs!https://t.co/NzddJB6H1L
— RWDSU (@RWDSU) March 12, 2025
Roofers and Waterproofers:
Overdoses from opioids are on the rise. Learn about opioid addiction and how to prevent it at: https://t.co/qGkLyFBmK6 #roofersafety365 pic.twitter.com/HwKhDcI8sP
— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) March 12, 2025
SAG-AFTRA:
🎮💪 #VideoGameStrike Update: The bargaining group would have you believe that we are close to reaching a deal. This is not the case. They are hoping our members will turn on each other. Read this comparison chart of A.I. proposals: https://t.co/pzZ3CV82jN pic.twitter.com/3QItbnclF3
— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) March 12, 2025
Service Employees International Union (SEIU):
“President Trump’s Education Secretary Linda McMahon’s firing of 1,315 Department of Education workers is an all-out attack on our nation's future and will roll back decades of progress to ensure that every student, regardless of race, gender, disability, family income or zip… pic.twitter.com/saNRPzgdhp
— SEIU (@SEIU) March 12, 2025
Solidarity Center:
New way to stay in touch 🦋 ! pic.twitter.com/eW4SrLAuKG
— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) March 6, 2025
The NewsGuild-CWA:
NEW: A federal court ruled Trump illegally fired NLRB member Gwynne Wilcox and has ordered her to be reinstated.
The courts are clear: the president isn’t a king, and labor law still matters.https://t.co/BSu6eFF8PT
— The NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) March 6, 2025
Theatrical Stage Employees:
BREAKING: 90 food and beverage employees at The Fillmore Philadelphia have overwhelmingly voted to join IATSE Local B-29!
"For far too long, the hardworking staff taking your tickets, making and serving your drinks, and preparing your food have been treated as replaceable and… pic.twitter.com/RyoGnzEjQY
— IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) March 11, 2025
Transport Workers Union:
The TWU’s Future Leaders Organizing Committee is in Washington this week, learning critical arbitration skills and building relationships across all of the TWU’s industrial divisions! pic.twitter.com/nEzzHQKf0D
— TWU (@transportworker) March 12, 2025
Transportation Trades Department:
Thanks for stopping by @CaHSRA! We were thrilled to hear updates about the progress on the largest infrastructure project in the U.S. from CEO Ian Choudri and Chair Tom Richards. pic.twitter.com/XQVscg2GzD
— TTD | America's Transportation Unions (@TTDAFLCIO) March 11, 2025
UAW:
Workers at the Volkswagen Parts Distribution Center in New Jersey know that there's strength in numbers. That's why they're coming together to demand a voice on the job and to join the 4,000 VW workers in Chattanooga who joined the UAW last year.
"There is a kind of fear in the… pic.twitter.com/ugLRbj8jwy
— UAW (@UAW) March 4, 2025
Union Veterans Council:
The @unionveterans strongly opposes the dismantling of the Dept. of Education. Such actions are an affront to our democracy and threaten the educational opportunities of the most vulnerable among us, including minorities, those in poverty, and individuals with disabilities.
— Union Veterans Council🪖✊ (@unionveterans) March 12, 2025
UNITE HERE:
This weekend, UNITE HERE Secretary-Treasurer Nia Winston and Local 634 President Nicole Hunt traveled to Selma, Alabama,to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Bloody Sunday, a pivotal day in our history when brave individuals marched for voting rights on the Edmund Pettus Bridge. pic.twitter.com/OtHlQI4KOD
— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) March 11, 2025
United Association of Union Plumbers and Pipefitters:
United Food and Commercial Workers:
Applications for the Winter quarter of UFCW's Free Foreign Language Program will open on March 20th at 1pm ET.
Be sure to make your calendar, as enrollment is on a first come, first served basis!
Learn more: https://t.co/61IC0Gx1LG pic.twitter.com/ipr2vMof3q
— UFCW (@UFCW) March 11, 2025
United Steelworkers:
Back to Basics: Megan Butler of Local 7600 explains Communication and Action Teams (CATs)—rank-and-file volunteers who keep members informed and engaged. Megan and her local siblings were honored with the Groundwork Award for their work ahead of major bargaining this spring! pic.twitter.com/fTLgk9HXLQ
— United Steelworkers #EverybodysUnion (@steelworkers) March 12, 2025
Utility Workers:
🥳 Congratulations to members of @RWDSU who recently ratified their first contract with Barnes and Noble! Over 200 workers now have codified safety protections, industry setting wages, and union health coverage. pic.twitter.com/Ug8gD7CEmg
— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) March 12, 2025
Writers Guild of America East:
Take action to support our nearly 100 dedicated @MSNBCUnion members who were recently laid off. These highly skilled professionals are now being forced to endure the humiliating process of reapplying for their own jobs.
Send a letter to @MSNBC mgmt: https://t.co/mrxCX40OfB pic.twitter.com/PbRtNPH8gE
— Writers Guild of America East (@WGAEast) March 12, 2025
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 03/11/2025 - 12:07Women's History Month Profiles: Helene Brown
For Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Helene Brown of the Bricklayers (BAC).
“I began my journey as a tuck pointer in 1999,” said Helene Brown, a member of BAC Administrative District Council 1 of Illinois. “After 26 years of hard work and dedication, I now have the opportunity to share my knowledge and experience as an instructor. Tuck pointing has allowed me to create a life and legacy that myself and my children can be proud of. I am proof that women can excel in a male dominated trade!”
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 03/11/2025 - 10:06Tags: Women's History Month
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Walt Disney Animation Studios Production Workers Ratify 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.
In a vote taken last week, production workers represented by The Animation Guild, IATSE Local 839, officially ratified their first union contract with Walt Disney Animation Studios.
The unit covers production coordinators, production supervisors and production managers who first started organizing in 2022—the next year, a supermajority of production workers voted to join TAG. The newly minted contract includes victories like a pension, health care benefits and double-digit increases to minimum wage rates for all job roles.
“In Hollywood, we love an underdog story. Our ratification was just that—the underrepresented and underpaid coming together and demanding better pay and equity with our artistic counterparts,” said production supervisor Nicholas Ellingsworth. “In the end, we were heard and seen, and we have a pathway to further improving the conditions in which production management works.”
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 03/11/2025 - 10:03Celebrate Women's History Month: 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.
Alaska AFL-CIO:
BREAKING NEWS: The U.S. Department of Homeland Security just revoked the right of 47,000 TSA workers to have a union.
An attack on TSA workers is an attack on workers everywhere. The time for sitting on the sidelines is over.
https://t.co/cgTsEfBSxX
— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) March 7, 2025
California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:
The California Federation of Labor Unions stands in strong solidarity with @APWUnational in opposition to President Trump's plan to privatize the U.S. Postal Service.
The Postal Service belongs to the people, not the billionaires. U.S. mail is NOT for sale! pic.twitter.com/cnSMU9zJRC
— California Federation of Labor Unions (@CaliforniaLabor) March 6, 2025
Colorado AFL-CIO:
Thank you to US Congressional Reps @RepDianaDeGette & @pettersen4co for your vocal support for the #WorkerProtectionAct! 👏👏👏 #coleg @GovofCO @GovofCO
Your proud support for pro-worker policy will make a difference in helping working families get ahead, not just get by. pic.twitter.com/RTGuNiUPxg
— Colorado AFL-CIO ✊ (@AFLCIOCO) March 5, 2025
Connecticut AFL-CIO:
Progress may be slower than we like, but do not be deterred! As the federal judge wrote, "An American President is not a king". pic.twitter.com/SPBg2B692n
— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) March 10, 2025
Illinois AFL-CIO:
We are deep in the legislative session. Legislation is moving in and out of committee and legislators are voting to advance bills that may eventually become law. Do you know how a bill becomes law? Check out this chart to learn more about the legislative process. pic.twitter.com/bbvaeIxOQu
— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) March 9, 2025
Iowa Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO:
Women have always had to fight twice as hard as men for less rights, less pay and less respect in the workplace. As we celebrate #WomensHistoryMonth let's recommit our fight for equality! pic.twitter.com/CqpYAMoan2
— Iowa AFL-CIO ✊ (@IowaAFLCIO) March 1, 2025
Kentucky State AFL-CIO:
Check us out! 💪 Thank you Governor Beshear for taking the time to speak with our UAW members at Working Families Lobby Day. https://t.co/AjmfU3xuLv
— Kentucky AFL-CIO (@aflcioky) March 8, 2025
Maine AFL-CIO:
Unconscionable. The Trump administration has ended collective bargaining rights for tens of thousands of Transportation Security Administration airport screeners, including hundreds of TSA workers in Maine. https://t.co/R8HHaS66Po
— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) March 7, 2025
Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
Happy #InternationalWomensDay! We celebrate and honor all of the women who have fought for workers’ rights and work every day to make our movement stronger. pic.twitter.com/OnGud1TPOW
— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) March 8, 2025
Michigan State AFL-CIO:
Unfortunately, there's no Schoolhouse Rock episode for when legislators hold bills hostage.
But we do know it's their job to send bills to the governor. And it's the governor's job to sign them.
Help us pass pro-worker legislation: https://t.co/HLCYuDtE8X pic.twitter.com/8xVFODUEMQ
— Michigan AFL-CIO ✊ (@MIAFLCIO) March 7, 2025
Minnesota AFL-CIO:
ALERT: The Minnesota House is taking up a bill to DELAY Paid Family & Medical Leave TODAY! Make sure your lawmakers know where you stand! #mnleg #PaidLeave https://t.co/Q1p9ugSE6x
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) March 10, 2025
Missouri AFL-CIO:
Why should billionaires have more rights and advantages than the #Workers who create their wealth? The AFL-CIO is stepping up to combat corruption and #UnionBusting with the reintroduction of the PRO Act! Read more here: https://t.co/4SBV0XZxTt
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) March 9, 2025
Nevada State AFL-CIO:
Our Executive Secretary-Treasurer Susie Martinez proudly testified in support of SB 182, a bill to improve patient safety and working conditions for healthcare workers!
SB 182 ensures safer nurse-to-patient ratios, saving lives and reducing long-term care costs. #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/MfpHcOgSCM
— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) March 7, 2025
New Hampshire AFL-CIO:
Thank you for your #Solidarity @RepGoodlander! https://t.co/ouNOzLQLVk
— New Hampshire AFL-CIO (@NHAFLCIO) March 10, 2025
New Jersey State AFL-CIO:
New Mexico Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO:
New York State AFL-CIO:
"The labor movement in this state and across this country will always fight to protect our public schools, we will always fight to protect our public education system, and we will always fight to protect our children." #ProtectOurKids pic.twitter.com/Mm8hI0oL6I
— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) March 4, 2025
North Carolina State AFL-CIO:
North Carolina Republicans are Trying to Throw Out College Students’ Votes to Steal an Election https://t.co/FVZwcGC6m1 #ncpol #1u via @TeenVogue
— NC State AFL-CIO // #CountMeIn (@NCStateAFLCIO) February 28, 2025
North Dakota AFL-CIO:
Take action for ND Kids: Universal Free School Meals for All ND Students. Write your Rep. here: https://t.co/BYu7A9emvu
— North Dakota AFL-CIO (@NDAFLCIO) February 6, 2025
Ohio AFL-CIO:
This is what democracy looks like. There is no stronger force than worker #solidarity. We must not let Elon Musk and the billionaire class divide us while they conquer and raid our tax coffers https://t.co/B3k1sCw8Xq
— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) March 5, 2025
Oregon AFL-CIO:
In 2024, Fred Meyer workers represented by @ufcw555 went on strike. Noah Aasen, a Fred Meyer worker, shared the struggle of exercising his right to strike as a worker while facing the reality of lost income.#ORPol #ORLeg #SB916 #OregonLabor #OregonAFLCIO pic.twitter.com/Y6xXjs60UO
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) March 10, 2025
Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:
Last month employers announced plans to slash 172,017 jobs, a 103% increase from a year ago and the highest February total since 2009.
This isn’t putting workers first. This is leaving them behind.https://t.co/PqBcijS1fc
— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) March 9, 2025
Texas AFL-CIO:
For Women’s History Month, we’re highlighting some of the trailblazing women who forged Texas labor!
This week: Becky Moeller, the first woman to be elected Texas AFL-CIO President 💪 pic.twitter.com/tFgffq7Y88
— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) March 5, 2025
Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:
Today we celebrate International Women’s Day. The World Economic Forum says it will take 5 generations to reach full gender parity.
Working women aren’t waiting until the year 2158. Solidarity with women around the world fighting for equality here and now. #AccelerateAction pic.twitter.com/VaI6yEOQt1
— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) March 8, 2025
Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
War heroes are among 26,000 images flagged for removal in Pentagon's DEI purge https://t.co/u7NEhFatvJ
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) March 9, 2025
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 03/10/2025 - 10:49Women's History Month Profiles: Jessica Timo
For Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Jessica Timo of the Office and Professional Employees (OPEIU).
Jessica Timo has been a union member for 30 years. As purchasing manager at the United Federation of Teachers, and in her role as president of OPEIU Local 153, she works each and every day to strengthen the New York labor movement. “Women’s History Month is important because it recognizes and amplifies our contributions, many of which have been overlooked or undervalued,” Timo said. “This month provides an opportunity to educate, reflect and inspire future generations to continue advocating for equality in the workplace and beyond.”
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 03/10/2025 - 09:57Tags: Women's History Month
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: American Guild of Musical Artists and Cincinnati Opera Announce New Three-Year 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 American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA) and Cincinnati Opera announced a new three-year contract. The contract was ratified by the AGMA Board of Governors on March 3, after being approved by the members. The contract secures wage increases, better financial support for non-local artists, stronger workplace protections, new policies addressing artificial intelligence, data security, and bereavement leave, expands rights for chorus members, corps dancers, and principal artists, enhances conditions for staging staff, and ensures fairer policies across all working groups.
“These negotiations were a testament to the strength and solidarity of the artists of Cincinnati Opera,” said AGMA Counsel Martha Kinsella. “We advocated strongly for meaningful wage increases and achieved the best contractual raises in recent memory. I want to extend my deepest gratitude to our negotiation committee, which represented nearly all working groups, for their dedication, strategic thinking, and unwavering advocacy throughout this process. I also want to thank Cincinnati Opera’s management team, who bargained in good faith from start to finish, demonstrating their commitment to the artists who bring these productions to life.”
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 03/10/2025 - 09:48Women's History Month Profiles: Rina Saltzman
For Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Rina Saltzman of the Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE).
As an officer in her local, Rina Saltzman’s job is to run the day-to-day operations and act as a lead negotiator for agreements with employers across the U.S. She is also a mentor to a student through the NYU Tisch Drama Women’s Mentorship Program. “ATPAM has had many women leaders over the years who have put their imprint on the union. Along with those that came before us, the current women in leadership positions throughout ATPAM and the IATSE inspire me every day.”
Kenneth Quinnell Sun, 03/09/2025 - 10:15Tags: Women's History Month
Women's History Month Profiles: Kanika Jones
For Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Kanika Jones of AFSCME.
Kanika Jones, a case worker for Head Start, has dedicated her career to helping children thrive. As a single mother of three, she knows firsthand that access to education and proper nutrition is critical for a child’s long-term success. She lets her personal experiences guide her work every day, and as an active member of AFSCME Local 2960, she uses her seat at the table to advocate for more resources for parents and children across Phoenix.
Kenneth Quinnell Sat, 03/08/2025 - 10:15Tags: Women's History Month
AFL-CIO and Affiliates Celebrate Reintroduction of the PRO Act
AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler issued the following statement on the reintroduction of the Richard L. Trumka Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act:
Americans believe in the power of unions, and tens of millions of working people would become union members tomorrow if they could. But American labor law is broken, weighted on the side of the bosses and against the workers. In too many workplaces, in too many industries across the country, big corporations and billionaire CEOs still retaliate against us for organizing. They refuse to negotiate our contracts, force us to sit through hours of anti-union propaganda and engage in illegal union-busting every day. Now they have an unelected, unaccountable union-buster trying to illegally fire tens of thousands of our fellow workers in federal jobs and an administration rolling back the workplace protections.
Shuler continued:
The PRO Act is long overdue, and the American people agree. We urge the elected leaders of both parties to move this critical legislation forward so that all workers have the chance to stand together and build better lives for themselves and their families.
We know it won’t be easy, but the labor movement never backs down from a righteous fight. And in today’s economy, where our workers’ hard-earned paychecks are covering less of what they need while still facing unsafe conditions and a lack of respect on the job, there’s no fight more righteous than ensuring that every single worker who wants a union has a fair shot to join or form one.
Other pro-worker organizations weighed in on the legislation. Here are those who issued statements so far.
Actors’ Equity Association Executive Director Al Vincent Jr.:
Now, when workers’ rights in this country are under imminent threat, it is crucial that we finally pass the PRO Act. The National Labor Relations Act has shaped this country for the better for 90 years, and we have to shore it up. Passing the PRO Act will also send a message from Congress that they care about the wellbeing of American workers. That includes the right to organize, to receive a living wage and to combat misclassification.”
The PRO Act includes several measures that fight back against union-busting tactics by employers and strengthens the National Labor Relations Act. For example, it prohibits the practice of some employers holding mandatory anti-organizing meetings for their staff and allows workers to file civil complaints against employers for violating their NLRB rights. The bill strengthens protections for workers who go on strike, and overrides so-called right-to-work laws.
AFSCME President Lee Saunders:
Working people want to be paid fairly. They want benefits like health care, a fair retirement, to know their jobs are secure and that their workplaces are safe and free from discrimination. They know the best way to secure these freedoms is through a union contract. That is why poll after poll shows unions are more popular than ever. But joining or forming a union is exceedingly difficult for far too many. As billionaires and wealthy companies rake in record profits, they are seeking even more control over our lives, using any means necessary to silence workers. Their anti-union extremism is deepening economic inequality, halting progress on health and safety, and harming millions.
The PRO Act will loosen billionaires’ grip on our economic future and make clear that their days of using illegal union busting tactics without consequence are over. This legislation will level the playing field, giving workers the legal protections they need to organize without fear of retaliation or obstruction. It’s about time Congress prioritized workers over billionaires and gave them a fair shot at improving their workplaces.
Air Line Pilots Association, Int'l President Capt. Jason Ambrosi:
The right to organize has been fundamental in advancing safety and quality-of-life improvements for workers across the country. ALPA pilots know first-hand the benefits of union membership and advocacy, and we stand in solidarity with those fighting for the right to collectively bargain.
We urge Congress to pass the PRO Act, which will help promote an economy that works for all working families. All workers deserve fair opportunities to negotiate for better working conditions, wages, and a more secure retirement. The collective bargaining rights within the PRO Act are foundational for strong and vibrant communities and are vital for our nation's continued success.
Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) ATU International President John Costa:
As a Union that represents over 200,000 transit workers, we know firsthand the power of collective bargaining and the protection of workers’ rights to organize. The Pro Act would strengthen those rights, ensuring workers have the ability to stand together and demand fair wages, safe working conditions, and a voice in their workplace. Thank you to Representatives Robert C. “Bobby” Scott, Hakeem Jeffries, Brian Fitzpatrick and Senator Bernie Sanders for reintroducing this bill.
This legislation is a fitting tribute to the late Richard Trumka, a fierce advocate for working people, whose leadership and vision continue to inspire us. The ATU stands united with the labor movement in supporting the PRO Act and calls on Congress to pass this crucial legislation without delay. It is time to restore balance to the workforce and ensure that every worker has the right to organize and bargain collectively. We urge lawmakers to act swiftly to pass the PRO Act, honor the legacy of Richard Trumka, and secure a fairer, more just future for workers across this nation.
American Federation of Musicians International President Tino Gagliardi:
The PRO Act gives workers essential safeguards against anti-union attacks. The American Federation of Musicians of the US and Canada thank Reps. Scott and Fitzpatrick and Sen. Sanders for their leadership and recognition that all people have the right to join a union and negotiate for a fair contract.
American Federation of Teachers:
The PRO Act is about ensuring every worker has rights on the job and can form a union. It:
✊Protects workers’ basic rights to form & join a union
📢 Holds employers accountable for violating workers’ rights
📮Secures free, fair, & safe union elections https://t.co/usullxGiNK
— AFT (@AFTunion) March 5, 2025
Bricklayers:
The PRO Act was reintroduced into Congress today. Too many mega-corporations are crushing workers' rights on the job, taking advantage of lax labor laws and little enforcement. Congress needs to give the ability to organize back to the workers and pass the PRO Act! pic.twitter.com/BNTSuMc1uv
— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) March 5, 2025
Communications Workers of America:
We need the PRO Act so that all workers in America truly have the freedom to join together in unions to fight for more just and equitable workplaces ✊ https://t.co/icCJ2HDVGk
— CWA (@CWAUnion) March 5, 2025
International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers:
The PRO Act is the common sense, bipartisan legislation we need to fix our damaged system and empower American workers. https://t.co/WaqLInnqzy
— SMART Union (@smartunionworks) March 5, 2025
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) International President Kenneth W. Cooper:
On behalf of the 838,000 active members and retirees of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, I am proud to support the Richard L. Trumka Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act. This critical piece of legislation ensures workers have a genuine right to organize, negotiate fair wages, and secure better benefits without fear of retaliation.
For decades, corporate interests have chipped away at these rights, leading to a sharp decline in union membership and an equally steep rise in income inequality not seen since the Great Depression. Today, over 60 million workers want to join a union but face overwhelming obstacles because of outdated labor laws that prioritize the interests of employers.
The PRO Act addresses this imbalance, modernizing these laws by streamlining the union election process, imposing real penalties on companies that illegally fire or intimidate workers, and preventing employers from misclassifying workers in order to strip them of their rights.
International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers President Matthew Biggs:
The members and leaders of IFPTE are continuing to build support for the PRO Act in the 119th Congress. The historically high support for unions shows that workers recognize the power of joining together with their coworkers to make their workplaces better. Any Member of Congress who says they support working Americans should support the PRO Act’s strong legal protections that restore and reinforce working people’s right to freely form a union and bargain with their employers for fair wages, benefits, and working conditions. We thank Representative Brian Fitzpatrick and Representative Bobby Scott, and Senator Bernie Sanders for reintroducing the PRO Act.
The International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental, and Reinforcing Iron Workers stands in strong support of the introduction of the reintroduction of The Richard L. Trumka Protecting the Right To Organize (PRO) Act by Congressman Bobby Scott (D-VA) and Senator Josh Hawley's (R-MO) Faster Labor Contracts Act. These bipartisan efforts reflect a significant step toward empowering workers and ensuring timely negotiations between labor unions and employers.
The Faster Labor Contracts Act proposes a critical framework that mandates employers engage in negotiations within one week following a successful union election. This provision is essential for protecting workers' rights and ensuring they receive the fair and equitable treatment they deserve. We firmly believe that timely negotiations lead to better working conditions, fair wages, and enhanced job security for our members and all workers nationwide.
Furthermore, Congressman Scott's PRO Act builds upon this momentum by reinforcing the rights of workers to organize and collectively bargain. This legislation is a vital tool in ensuring that workers can advocate for their interests without fear of retaliation or obstruction. Our nation's labor force is the backbone of our economy, and it is imperative that we create a legislative environment that promotes fairness and dialogue. We applaud Senator Hawley and Congressman Scott for their commitment to advancing policies uplifting working men and women.
We encourage support for these bills, as they represent significant progress toward a more equitable American workforce.
Laborers (LIUNA) General President Brent Booker:
The right to freely join a union is the cornerstone of a prosperous working class in America. Fair pay, essential benefits, and a dignified retirement after a life of hard work are all qualities of the American Dream that have been chipped away as fewer workers are able to join unions.
Today, working men and women without a collective voice struggle with multiple jobs, wages that do not cover necessities, and a lack of healthcare and retirement security. At the same time, Gallup polling shows that workers overwhelmingly support unions.
Workers want—and America needs—more unions.
Read the full LIUNA statement.
Machinists (IAM) International President Brian Bryant:
I thank Senator Bernie Sanders and Congressmen Bobby Scott and Brian Fitzpatrick for leading this very important piece of bipartisan legislation. For far too long, American workers have been denied the right to freely form a union without the threat of company intimidation or interference, The Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act is long overdue legislation that grants our nation’s workforce the protections to form a union if they wish, while also including provisions to punish employers who break the law.
Painters and Allied Trades General President Jimmy Williams:
The @GoIUPAT thanks @BobbyScott, @RepBrianFitz, and @SenSanders as they reintroduce the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act in Congress.
— Jimmy Williams (@Jimmy_iupat) March 5, 2025
Williams continued:
We cannot allow the rights of workers to continue to erode. The PRO Act is necessary to protect the rights of working people to form and join unions.
Together with the introduction earlier this week of
Rep. Josh Hawley's (MO) “Faster Labor Contracts Act” it’s clear that there is strong support from all sides of the political spectrum for the labor law reform and protecting the rights of workers to organize.
Members of the IUPAT go to work every day and help build the American economy, and we will work with anyone serious about providing much needed reforms for the rights of working people to form and join unions.
We call on Congress to move quickly to pass these pieces of legislation and start the long awaited process of restoring basic rights to the working people who drive our economy.
Office and Professional Employees:
The #PROAct would strengthen workers' rights, hold employers accountable for breaking the law, and begin to level the playing field between working people and their bosses. #PassThePROActhttps://t.co/QOGZBcUfgf
— OPEIU | #UnionStrong (@OPEIU) March 6, 2025
Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) International President Matthew D. Loeb:
Standing up for the right to organize and collectively bargain should not be a partisan issue. Entertainment workers know that time is of the essence when it comes to securing fair contracts. Whether it’s film, television, live events, or trade shows, our members move from job to job, and delays in bargaining can mean missing out on the industry standards and protections we fight for. The PRO Act remains our North Star in the fight for comprehensive labor law reform and we welcome bipartisan efforts that recognize the urgent need to level the playing field for workers.
Read the full IATSE statement.
Transport Workers Union (TWU) International President John Samuelsen:
It is time for Congress to step up and support workers. Republicans and Democrats alike talk a good game about supporting working people—signing onto the PRO Act and working to pass it into law shows which lawmakers will back up their words with action.”
The PRO Act is a significant legislative priority for the entire labor movement. The bill bans employer interference in union elections and would end mandatory anti-labor meetings during an organizing drive. It allows newly certified unions to seek binding arbitration and mediation when employers fail to negotiate a first contract in good faith. The bill eliminates so-called “right to work” laws and allow unions to collect dues that cover the cost of collective bargaining and administering a contract. And the PRO Act penalizes employers and corporate executives who violate workers’ rights.
UNITE HERE:
Organizing new workers must be the #1 priority of the labor movement — but American labor law is fundamentally broken — and tilted heavily in the boss's favor. That's why workers are out today to support the reintroduction of the PRO Act, which creates an equal playing field. pic.twitter.com/4kvQ1tvoYU
— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) March 5, 2025
United Steelworkers (USW) International President David McCall:
Millions of American workers want to join unions, but they can’t, because corporations can intimidate and bully them with no meaningful consequences. Workers deserve to have a voice on the job without interference, and the PRO Act would protect that voice.
For decades, corporate CEOs and Wall Street investors have been taking home a bigger and bigger share of the economic pie while leaving workers with the crumbs. Unions are the best check on that growing inequality and the best path to the middle class for exploited workers.
Congress should quickly pass the PRO Act and the president should sign it.
Department for Professionals Employees President Jennifer Dorning:
Most professionals want to join a union and there has been an increase in workplace activism in recent years. However, federal labor law does not effectively protect professionals’ right to form a union and negotiate with their employer collectively in the private sector. The weak penalties employers are subject to when they break the law do not deter them from intimidating and retaliating against employees during union organizing campaigns and intentionally holding up first union contract negotiations. The PRO Act will improve federal labor law by creating real consequences for employers who break the law, making employer tactics that interfere with elections illegal, and facilitating productive negotiations to encourage quicker agreement on first union contracts.
Metal Trades Department, AFL-CIO, President Ed Jones:
For far too long, America’s workers have faced an uphill battle when fighting for fair wages, safe working conditions, and the fundamental right to organize without fear of intimidation or retaliation. The PRO Act represents the most significant labor law reform in decades, ensuring that workers can freely exercise their right to join a union and bargain collectively.
Arizona AFL-CIO President Jim McLaughlin:
Senator Kelly grew up in a union household and knows firsthand how unions can transform lives. They gave his family stability and opportunities, and he understands that strong unions are key to building a thriving middle class. That’s why he’s proud to cosponsor the PRO Act, which will make it easier for workers to join unions, negotiate fair wages, and strengthen the middle class for generations to come.
Maine AFL-CIO President Cynthia Phinney:
Labor unions are extremely popular with Americans because they know being part of a union is the most effective way to gain better wages, health insurance, retirement security and a dignified life. But for too long, anti-worker policies and bad legal decisions have made it too easy for employers to crack down on our rights and retaliate against working people forming unions because the penalties for breaking labor laws are just absorbed as a cost of doing business. The PRO Act would level the playing field and allow workers to freely choose to join a union and bargain for a better life. We applaud Congressman Jared Golden for his consistent support for this critical reform that will hold union-busting corporations accountable, repeal anti-worker laws, and remove barriers to organizing and bargaining.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 03/07/2025 - 12:00Invest In Critical Infrastructure: 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.
'An American President Is Not a King': Judge Reinstates Labor Regulator Illegally Fired by Trump: “The president's attempt to fire Wilcox halted federal labor law enforcement in the United States. AFL-CIO president Liz Shuler celebrated Howell's ruling in a Thursday statement, saying that ‘more than a month after Trump effectively shut down the NLRB by illegally firing Gwynne Wilcox, denying it the quorum it needs to hold union-busters accountable, the court ordered Wilcox immediately returned to her seat, allowing the NLRB to get back to its essential work.’”
With Strong Union Support, Lawmakers Reintroduce PRO Act: “AFL-CIO President Shuler declared the time is politically right to pass the PRO Act. Organized labor’s popularity—a 70%-71% approval rating in the last two yearly Gallup polls, is at an all-time high. ‘Every other issue splits right down the middle,’ she noted. Though Shuler didn’t say so, the mass and illegal firings of federal workers—union and non-union—by Trump and his puppeteer, Elon Musk, have driven union membership up since Trump took over.”
Let’s Protect Connecticut’s Men and Women Who Keep the Lights On: “To keep all these services functioning, utilities must continually invest in the critical infrastructure to ensure those systems work. If you don’t invest in that infrastructure, over time, these systems break down because they are out in the elements, or they simply become old and outdated. Across Connecticut, members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) are doing this infrastructure maintenance daily to make sure the lights stay on.”
900 Northwell Hospital Nurses to Strike: “The union and hospital began negotiating a new contract in November, according to NYSNA. Union members voted to authorize a strike in February. In a statement shared with Becker's, the hospital said that management aims ‘to reach an agreement that continues to provide our valued nurses with competitive compensation, benefits and a safe, supportive working environment.’ The union contends that management has failed to agree to a fair labor deal that retains enough experienced nurses to provide safe patient care to patients.”
Two Unions Reach Agreement with MVHS; Workers to Get Raises: “The Mohawk Valley Health System has reached an agreement with two of its unions, officials announced. Service and maintenance workers represented by United Food and Commercial Workers, District Union Local One, and licensed practical nurses and technicians represented by Communications Workers of America, District One Local 1126 both voted Wednesday, Feb. 26 to ratify a memorandum of agreement.”
Corpus Christi Teachers, Union Supporters March for Public Education: “About two dozen members of local unions and community organizations gathered in front of Corpus Christi ISD's downtown administration building to draw attention to what they view as state and national threats to public education. The American Federation of Teachers held a ‘Protect Our Kids’ day of action Tuesday across the country. The Corpus Christi chapter of the teachers union organized the local event, joined by representatives from the Coastal Bend Labor Council, the local chapter of the NAACP, League of United Latin American Citizens, CHISPA League of Conservation Voters and For the Greater Good.”
Sherrod Brown: Democrats Must Become the Workers’ Party Again: “Since November 5, in the final months of the year, no one has had a lot of time for licking wounds. Seventy people in our office were suddenly out of work. My chief of staff and state director and I met with every member of our staff, working to find jobs for the public servants who had served Ohio, many for more than a decade. And we still had legislative work to do. We fought to finally get the Social Security Fairness Act through the Senate and signed into law. After more than 10 years of work, my penultimate vote in the United States Senate—after midnight, on my last night on the Senate floor—finally restored the full Social Security that more than three million American workers earned. Teachers and police officers and school cafeteria workers and bus drivers paid in over years of hard work. Now, they will finally get the retirement security they earned.”
Machinists Union Ratifies CSX Pact: “CSX announced on Monday that employees represented by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) have voted to ratify the five-year collective bargaining agreement. ‘IAM’s ratification is a testament to the strength of our partnership with union leadership,’ said Joe Hinrichs, president and chief executive of CSX, in a release. ‘This underscores our commitment to fostering a workplace where every employee feels valued and respected. Together, as ONE CSX, we will continue enhancing safety, efficiency, and service to secure sustained growth.’”
Alaska Air Flight Attendants Ratify Labor Contract: “Alaska Air flight attendants have ratified a new three-year labor contract, a union representing the workers said on Friday. The Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, the union representing the attendants at the Seattle-based carrier, said that 95% of the votes cast supported the new agreement. The ratified agreement would provide attendants with pay increases ranging from 18.6% to 28.3%, boarding pay, 25 months of retroactive pay and two additional raises over the contract's duration, among other benefits, the union said.”
After More Than Four Years of Talks, NBC News’ Digital Editorial Staff Gets Tentative Contract Deal: “NBC News‘ digital editorial staff will be able to delay a recent round of staff cuts and will have new layoff protections under the terms of a long-awaited first contract deal, reached on Thursday. The provisional three-year pact, announced on Friday, offers union members advance notice of layoffs and preferential treatment for rehire and a minimum of eight weeks of severance if they are cut from the job. The deal was reached just weeks after NBC News laid off dozens of employees, including 20 workers covered by the union, after previous rounds of layoffs in 2023 and 2024.”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 03/07/2025 - 10:32
