Service & Solidarity Action: Join the Picket and Support Fired Dancers!
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.
Dancers at the Dallas Black Dance Theatre (DBDT) organized and unanimously voted for a union with the American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA) back in May. Then, DBDT did the unthinkable: It fired the entire troupe and hired nonunion replacements. Join us on the picket lines to support the DBDT-fired dancers as we demand fairness. AGMA, the dancers, our affiliated unions and community allies will be on the line, sending a clear message to DBDT: Union-busting is disgusting, and it will not stand.
When: Oct. 11–12, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. CT
Where: One Arts Plaza, 1722 Routh St., Dallas, TX 75201
Worker Wins: Collectively Our Voice is Powerful
Our latest roundup of worker wins includes numerous examples of working people organizing, bargaining and mobilizing for a better life.
Airport Concession Workers Win $25 Minimum Wage: UNITE HERE Local 23-represented concessions workers at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport in Texas announced last week that they have secured a $25 minimum wage during bargaining. This landmark victory comes after 100% of voting members elected to grant the union strike authorization power in August. Workers are employed by one of the largest hospitality companies in the world, Delaware North, which is owned by billionaire Jeremy Jacobs and reported $4 billion in revenues last year. “Local 23 members are often overlooked as cooks, servers, bartenders and retail workers, but without them, the airport and Delaware North would not be as successful as they are,” said UNITE HERE Local 23 Secretary-Treasurer Willy Gonzalez at a press conference Monday. “We work in the back of the house, and sometimes the back of the house doesn’t get seen...but collectively our voice is powerful.”
Toledo Symphony Ratifies New Five-Year Contract: The Toledo Federation of Musicians (TFM)/American Federation of Musicians (AFM) Local 15-286 and the Toledo Symphony Orchestra (TSO) ratified a new five-year contract last month that will run until the end of the 2028–2029 season. Throughout the lifetime of the agreement, TFM members will see major victories like a pay increase of 39% and higher matching contributions to their 403(b) retirement plans. The deal also includes the establishment of two new core string positions and conversion of several previously part-time roles into full-time positions. Musicians additionally won more paid parental leave, standardization of the tenure evaluation process and more that will allow them to continue giving world-class performances. “We are proud of the collaborative spirit that defined these negotiations,” said Casey Gsell, TSO principal bassoon and chair of the Orchestra Committee. “This agreement not only provides significant financial improvements for our members but also enhances our role in the community, supports education, and ensures equitable treatment of our musicians. It is a true testament to what we can achieve when we work together.”
PASS Ratifies New Contract with Federal Aviation Administration: Late last month, Professional Aviation Safety Specialists (PASS) National President Dave Spero signed a new contract covering more than 4,000 workers in the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA’s) Aviation Safety Directorate. This victory comes after two years and eight months spent at the negotiating table with the federal government agency. The new agreement was ratified by an overwhelming 85% of members and is effective as of Oct. 6. PASS is still in negotiations for a new contract for the more than 7,000 FAA employees the union represents in the Air Traffic Organization. “I’m proud of the work our team did at the bargaining table,” Spero said. “It was challenging at times, but in the end, we achieved a strong collective bargaining agreement that stressed recruitment and retention, as well as fair work rules, for employees who are critical to carrying out the FAA’s mission. I want to thank our members for their support and patience during the process.”
Indiana PetSmart Workers Win First Union for Chain in the U.S.: In a landslide 12–2 victory, PetSmart workers in Mishawaka, Indiana, have successfully won the first union election at a U.S. location of the pet superstore chain. With organizing help from the United Commercial and Food Workers (UFCW), PetSmart associates, trainers, groomers and other staff are coming together and forming unions across the country. Workers are fighting for higher pay, improved hours and better working conditions with the protections of a powerful union contract. With a collective bargaining agreement, PetSmart Union said they will be able to better serve the animals of all shapes and sizes that they care for. “With this victory, we’ve shown the company that we’re serious about coming together and unionizing for real change in our stores,” PetSmart Union wrote on their website. “Now, we’re focused on putting our collective voice into action and building strength throughout the country! We can’t wait to see which PetSmart store joins us next in our fight to make PetSmart the company we know it can be.”
Kapiʻolani Nurses Weather Hospital Lockout and Win New Contract: On Wednesday, members of the Hawaiʻi Nurses’ Association (HNA)—an affiliate of the Office and Professional Employees (OPEIU)—who work at the Kapiolani Medical Center for Women and Children ratified a hard-fought new three-year contract. After a historic 18-day lockout, two strikes, three informational pickets, and one year and 18 days of contract negotiations, HNA members secured a monumental agreement that includes the first contractually enforceable nurse-to-patient ratios in Hawaii history. The contract also contains wage increases, double time for extra hours prior to a shift, increases to longevity differentials, improved protections against workplace violence and more. “This contract sets a new standard for what quality patient care will look like for our community,” said HNA in a social media post. “Hawaiʻi deserves the best health care, and Kapiʻolani nurses were willing to fight to make that a reality. Joined by our patients, families, union siblings and community supporters, we fought for what was right and refused to give in. Aloha and mahalo, Hawaiʻi. This one was for you.”
Washington Teachers’ Union Reaches Tentative Agreement: The Washington Teachers’ Union (WTU), a local of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), reached a tentative agreement (TA) Monday with the District of Columbia Public Schools for a new five-year contract. This TA comes a year after the expiration of WTU’s previous contract with the Washington, D.C., school district—the union credits the dedication and commitment of bargaining committee members for securing this win. The deal includes fair and competitive pay raises, more structured breaks to prevent burnout for both educators and their students, increased time for lesson planning and preparation, and provisions that ensure fair workloads for educators. “The bargaining team heard from members about the need for improved working conditions. We took that to heart and were able to secure many provisions that show respect to educators, such as breaks to prevent teacher and student burnout, time to prepare and plan lessons, and fair workloads,” said WTU President Jacqueline Pogue Lyons. “The team also pushed hard and obtained decent and fair pay raises over the course of the five-year contract, despite the district’s contention that it was working in a tight financial environment.”
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 10/10/2024 - 13:00Defending Workers' Rights: 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.
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.
Union Leaders Talking with Workers at the Gordie Howe Bridge, Letting Them Know What’s at Stake in the Election: “The president of the AFL-CIO is here in Detroit, on a side street, really, Cavalry Street, off of Ford Street, right at the foot of the Gordie Howe International Bridge. Liz Shuler—she’s talking to Teamsters, operating engineers, 13 different trades unions that are represented here working on the Gordie Howe International Bridge, and like the rest of us, she’s heard the reports that, you know, leadership obviously supports Harris. Some membership doesn’t. She’s not surprised: ‘Just like the country, the labor movement has people with very diverse political beliefs. But what we do is look at the issues. So if a candidate is supporting things like prevailing wage requirements and project labor agreements on a construction site, we want to make sure that those workers know which candidate is actually defending their rights.’”
AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler from Union Headquarters in Washington, D.C., Talking Up Vice President Harris to Trades Workers: “Michigan remains a battleground state in the 2024 presidential election. AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler from union headquarters in Washington, D.C., talking up Vice President Harris to trades workers before their shifts on the Gordie Howe bridge this morning: ‘We want to make sure that those workers know which candidate is actually defending their rights. Who will protect their contract, who will make it easier to join a union, not harder? And since these are unionized workers, we know their union contract means a lot to them, and so we want to make sure they’re aware of where these candidates stand when it comes to union issues.’ Shuler telling us that Harris’ record has earned union members’ support. It’s the first time in recent memory the president of the AFL-CIO has been here personally in Michigan to push for or against a presidential candidate.”
In Support of the Harris–Walz Campaign, AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler Meeting with Detroit-Area Union Members in Construction Trades: “Happening now in support of the Harris–Walz campaign: AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler meeting with Detroit-area union members in construction trades. This is happening at the Gordie Howe International Bridge. They’re talking about what’s at stake for workers this election. About 1 in 5 voters in Michigan will be union voters during this election, which is a key topic.”
Project 2025 Would Erode Labor Rights and Roll Back Child Labor Laws: “On this edition of Your Call, we’re continuing our series on Project 2025 by discussing what the rightwing roadmap means for workers, labor rights, and the right to unionize. Donald Trump says he’s pro-worker, but during his first four years as president, he was anti-worker and anti-union. The National Labor [Relations Board] members he appointed ‘made it more difficult for unions to win representation at nonunion workplaces’ and the Trump Supreme Court ‘issued a devastating ruling against public sector unions’ that made it ‘easier for government employees nationwide to not pay union dues even if their workplace is unionized,’ according to CNN. A second Trump administration stands to be even worse. Project 2025 includes provisions to cut overtime pay for millions of workers and suggests that Congress should consider getting rid of public sector unions altogether. It would also roll back workplace safety laws, including those that protect children.”
Hotel Workers Knock on a Million Doors, Targeting Latinos, to Keep Arizona Blue for Kamala Harris: “Maria Romero became a U.S. citizen in 2016 to vote against Donald Trump, offended by his characterization of Mexicans as criminals and rapists. Adversity motivates her, she said. Now, the hotel housekeeper is pounding the scorching Phoenix pavement, pushing back against growing support among Latinos for Trump, who now leads polling in the key swing state Biden won in the last presidential election.”
U.S. Unions Step Up Efforts to Make Case That Trump Is No Friend of Workers: “‘Trump has found ways to break through with working people,’ Liz Shuler, president of the AFL-CIO, the nation’s main labor federation, told the Guardian. ‘He has the rhetoric down, but he doesn’t have the results to back it up. That’s why it’s important that we, as messengers, combat that with facts.’ The AFL-CIO is urging the nation’s 14.4 million union members to look at its ‘candidate comparison’ website, which makes the case that Trump is anti-union. He crossed a union picket line, praised the idea of firing workers who are on strike, and often used non-union workers at his construction sites.”
AFL-CIO Leads Union Women in Massive Mobilization for the Election: “Quoting Trump’s saying ‘I have the concepts for a plan’ to replace the Obama-era Affordable Care Act, Shuler deadpanned ‘That’s the equivalent of saying “The dog ate my homework.”’ Junking the ACA and turning health back over to rapacious insurers who reap workers’ dollars through high premiums and co-pays while denying care has been a longtime Republican goal.”
Harris Vote Is a ‘No Brainer’ for Transport Workers: Transport Workers Union’s John Samuelsen: “John Samuelsen, international president of the Transport Workers Union, joins CNBC’s ‘The Exchange’ to discuss why the union is backing Kamala Harris in the election, the threat of automation in the transportation sector, and more.”
Biden Announces 10-Year Deadline to Replace All Lead Pipes Throughout the U.S.: “President Biden on Tuesday announced $2.6 billion in funding to replace all lead pipes in the United States as part of a new EPA rule that will require lead pipes to be identified and replaced within 10 years using the new funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Act. The EPA estimates that nine million homes in the U.S. have lead pipes. The city of Milwaukee, where Mr. Biden is making the announcement, has 65,000 lead pipes, which the city says will cost an estimated $700 million to remove.”
More Black and Latina Women Are Leading Unions—And Transforming How They Work: “Momentum for Black and Latina women rising into labor union leadership has picked up in the last five years. But the work began long before that by ‘our foremothers who laid this foundation and have been pushing and kicking those doors open for decades,’ according to Liz Shuler, who in June 2022 became the first woman in history to lead the AFL-CIO, a federation of 60 national and international labor unions.”
Jobs Report Blows Past Expectations, Showing Hiring Surge: “U.S. hiring surged in September, blowing past economist expectations and rebuking concern about weakness in the labor market. The fresh report marks one of the last major pieces of economic data before the presidential election. Employers hired 254,000 workers last month, far exceeding economist expectations of 150,000 jobs added, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data showed. The unemployment rate ticked down to 4.1%.”
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 10/10/2024 - 12:56Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Mission Nurses Reach New Contract Agreement with HCA
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
A little over a month after Mission Health registered nurses (RNs) voted to authorize a strike, they announced that they had ratified a new three-year contract with HCA. The contract will improve patient safety and nurse retention. The 1,600 nurses, who are represented by the National Nurses Organizing Committee/National Nurses United (NNOC/NNU), said the highlights of the contract include substantial wage increases, new measures that will ensure that nurses are “floated” (temporarily reassigned) to units similar to their normal specialty and the ability of nurses to use preferred names and add personal pronouns to name badges.
“We are excited to have this new contract and ensure that our hospital is on a path to taking the best possible care of our patients and community,” said Huns Brown, an RN working in Mission Health’s pulmonary progressive care unit, in the release. “The devastation Hurricane Helene brought to our region underscores how Mission being the best possible version of itself is more important than ever.”
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 10/10/2024 - 10:02Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Cleveland Institute of Music Joins AFM
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.
Faculty at the Cleveland Institute of Music in Ohio joined the American Federation of Musicians (AFM) Local 4. The workers voted 56-25 vote in favor of the union. The faculty organized to improve how the administration communicates with faculty about issues affecting them and to give faculty more input in financial decisions.
“We’re handstands and pogo sticks about representing these world-class artists,” said Local 4 President Leonard DiCosimo. “So many CIM faculty are also Cleveland Orchestra members, who are already part of our union. This will only heighten the connection between the union and the CIM rank and file.”
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 10/09/2024 - 10:03Solidarity Is What Makes the Labor Movement Run: 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:
If you’re in the Tucson area this weekend and would like to join forces with the state fed and National Nurses United, please sign up via Mobilize 👇https://t.co/GQbOMHoHc2 https://t.co/YmvZmWUxo5
— Arizona AFL-CIO (@ArizonaAFLCIO) October 5, 2024
California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:
Worksite political education! We love to see it! https://t.co/i0oZN1FcCz
— California Federation of Labor Unions (@CaliforniaLabor) October 4, 2024
Colorado AFL-CIO:
Yesterday we stood in solidarity with @APWUnational in their Day of Action rally! ✊ pic.twitter.com/sb7MoZnvFk
— Colorado AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOCO) October 2, 2024
Connecticut AFL-CIO:
Great turnout of union members to knock doors for pro-worker candidates in Norwich, Colchester, Meriden & Danbury! #LaborVotes #1u pic.twitter.com/0gM259hqM8
— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) October 5, 2024
Illinois AFL-CIO:
Solidarity is what makes the labor movement run.
Illinois union members were in Wisconsin this past weekend to knock doors for Vice President Harris.
Big thanks to Izzy Dobbel and our friends at @chicagolabor and @wisaflcio for organizing the day of action. Let's win this! #1u pic.twitter.com/OR9cXD0KKR
— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) October 7, 2024
Maine AFL-CIO:
Congratulations to our IATSE Local 114 siblings! https://t.co/4Fw7xh5zoy
— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) October 4, 2024
Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
Hundreds of union members are out in full force in New Hampshire for @KamalaHarris, @Tim_Walz, @JoyceCraigNH and more labor champions! Labor gets it done! @NHAFLCIO @VT_AFLCIO @AFLCIO @GBLCBoston @NASRCC_UBC @IBEW103 @IUPAT_DC35 @Mass_BTU@UFCW1445 @LIUNA #BetterInAUnion pic.twitter.com/Hw3IBGYm5S
— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) October 5, 2024
Michigan State AFL-CIO:
Shana tova to all our union family celebrating Rosh Hashanah! Wishing our Jewish brothers and sisters a very happy new year ahead.
— Michigan AFL-CIO ✊ (@MIAFLCIO) October 2, 2024
Minnesota AFL-CIO:
Another wonderful day out on the doors in support of our Labor-endorsed candidates! Plenty of opportunities to talk to fellow union members about the election. Visit https://t.co/QE6vC0hNMV to sign up! #BetterInAUnion #UnionsForHarris #mnleg pic.twitter.com/eE9ejTGUCo
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) October 5, 2024
Missouri AFL-CIO:
"The simple matter is that $492 a week isn’t enough to live in any county in the state of Missouri…"
We’re voting YES on Prop A for #PaidSickDays and a $15/hr minimum wage in Missouri. @mohealthyfam https://t.co/NJ4UfyRZ3s
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) October 6, 2024
Nevada State AFL-CIO:
Our 3 Superwalks this morning out of Henderson, Summerlin, & Reno!
Thankful to our guest speakers @WalshFreedom @XavierBecerra & Sharifa Wahab who took the time out of their weekend to speak to our wonderful canvassers before we launch.
OFFICIALLY ONE MONTH LEFT 📆 pic.twitter.com/xuk7uip7tA
— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) October 5, 2024
New Hampshire AFL-CIO:
We are proud to endorse @MaggieG603 to represent NH’s 2nd District. Maggie will fight for workers, here in NH, + across the country.
We will work together to create good paying union jobs, expand workers’ rights, + build an economy that works for everyone!#NHPolitics pic.twitter.com/juILmia4cu
— New Hampshire AFL-CIO (@NHAFLCIO) October 7, 2024
New York State AFL-CIO:
BINGHAMTON: Support Josh Riley and Lea Webb at the labor walk on Saturday! https://t.co/207aEl1jmE
— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) October 4, 2024
North Carolina State AFL-CIO:
How will Trump's #Project2025 impact taxes for working North Carolinians? Let’s break it down. #1u #ncpol pic.twitter.com/gq9WmTyfPV
— NC State AFL-CIO // #CountMeIn (@NCStateAFLCIO) October 3, 2024
Ohio AFL-CIO:
Meanwhile, her opponent supported a Right to Work law on the Ohio House of Representatives. @RepMarcyKaptur is the real deal and a #UnionStrong OG! https://t.co/VIakbAnUOh
— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) October 7, 2024
Oregon AFL-CIO:
Join #OregonLabor this Saturday at a canvass for State Rep. Zach Hudson, State Rep. Ricki Ruiz & State Sen. Chris Gorsek.
A BBQ lunch will be provided by Portland Fire Fighters @iaff43!
Sign up and get more info at https://t.co/B1B90w7Rqn pic.twitter.com/jw2owB7J3G
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) October 7, 2024
Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:
One month left until the election! Make a plan to #vote for Kamala Harris and Tim Walz—leaders who will fight for you. Your vote is your power! 🗳️
OCT 21 – Voter registration deadlinehttps://t.co/3OrvlRlsPI
OCT 29 – Last day to apply for a mail ballot.https://t.co/AYOCunHCrE pic.twitter.com/hP4FYNBQeF
— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) October 6, 2024
Texas AFL-CIO:
Corporate concentration doesn't just hurt consumers - workers get shafted, too.
As @linakhanFTC told Texas workers, lack of competition reduces workers' leverage & depresses their wages.
That's why she, @SenSanders, @RepCasar, and @RepLloydDoggett are fighting corporate power. pic.twitter.com/Xp6vY12x1h
— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) October 3, 2024
Virginia AFL-CIO:
We are fired up and ready to go this morning to hit the doors for @YVindman ! Let’s win this 🔥🔥🔥 https://t.co/lkJBTGB3KY
— Virginia AFL-CIO (@Virginia_AFLCIO) October 5, 2024
Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:
😍 What a week of worker power!
Rallying with @APWUnational, supporting our @IAM751 family on the lines, and flexing people power with @teamsters117.
Looks like a sunny weekend ahead, perfect for bringing the family out for a picket shift with the Machinists 👀 pic.twitter.com/38xjfy0viM
— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) October 4, 2024
Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
President Joe Biden will return to Milwaukee on Tuesday to discuss his administration's progress in replacing lead pipes in Wisconsin and across the country. https://t.co/ucv3MHw1tU
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) October 7, 2024
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 10/08/2024 - 12:00Seeking Fair Pay: 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:
The performers at Chippendales in Las Vegas are unionizing with Actors' Equity Association, seeking fair pay and improved working conditions guaranteed by a union contract. We look forward to representing these iconic workers at the bargaining table. https://t.co/0QOMkGAU3H pic.twitter.com/zCzlEcT9Co
— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) October 8, 2024
AFGE:
Federal correctional officers work in some of the most dangerous and violent places imaginable and, as a result, are at increased risk for developing depression, PTSD, and suicidality as compared to those in other professions.https://t.co/tBY06Y3CSJ
— AFGE (@AFGENational) October 8, 2024
AFSCME:
A new report by @afscme31 describes how illegal drugs are spreading throughout Illinois’ prisons. https://t.co/MvaxjNhFPl
— AFSCME (@AFSCME) October 8, 2024
Alliance for Retired Americans:
Vice President Harris' new home care plan is exactly what millions of older Americans and their caregivers need. Learn more by reading our release: https://t.co/4nZPk1IQas pic.twitter.com/6AHm7V7iHJ
— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) October 8, 2024
Amalgamated Transit Union:
We wrap up our celebration of Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month by honoring our Local 846-St. Catharines, ON, Sister Monica Restrepo. #HispanicHeritageMonth2024 pic.twitter.com/Dpvkl93Vpj
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) October 9, 2024
American Federation of Musicians:
The Musicians of the @NatSymphonyDC have reached a tentative agreement.
Details to follow. pic.twitter.com/jS12qgrBke
— AFM (@The_AFM) September 27, 2024
American Federation of Teachers:
Emergency nurses and healthcare professionals care for patients when they need it the most.
Today, we thank them for their work, and continue the fight for safe staffing, safe working conditions, and fair compensation for these livesaving workers! @AFTHealthcare pic.twitter.com/yeLnrAVACQ
— AFT (@AFTunion) October 9, 2024
American Postal Workers Union:
President Dimondstein appeared on PBS Newshour to discuss extraordinary measures used to move election mail and to advocate for this level of priority service year-round. "No matter where we live, no matter who we are, we should get the same good service."https://t.co/Npy23kx2As
— The American Postal Workers Union - APWU (@APWUnational) October 3, 2024
Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:
As aviation’s First Responders, we want to make sure we have the tools onboard to save lives. @FlyingWithSara joined the @WhiteHouse Challenge to Save Lives from Overdose to discuss how we can save lives in the air and beat the overdose crisis no matter where we are. pic.twitter.com/V8bmDJgzXG
— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) October 8, 2024
Boilermakers:
We're at the Pacific Basin Nuclear Conference in Idaho Falls where 400 leaders from the U.S., Canadian and worldwide nuclear industry met to talk about removing barriers to break ground on over 300GW of nuclear projects in the U.S. by 2050. That's good #Boilermaker work. 👷♂️ pic.twitter.com/ttKbyg5HXm
— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) October 8, 2024
Bricklayers:
Happy #WorksiteWednesday! This week we have pictures of some amazing stonework out of @BacLocal1Sk.
Brother Derek Cattell is a member who started his own Union company, DC Masonry about a year ago!
So proud to see what you accomplish!#BestHandsInTheBusiness #UnionsForAll pic.twitter.com/CLPI4BTo6z
— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) October 9, 2024
Coalition of Labor Union Women:
"The Coalition of Labor Union Women joins with the millions of union members in mourning the death of a great labor leader and a true man of equality, the late Bill Lucy. Brother Lucy was the personification of the saying, “A man of quality is not threatened by women..." EB
— CLUW National (@CLUWNational) October 1, 2024
Communications Workers of America:
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette workers have been on strike now for two years. They are outside the @PittsburghPG newsroom today to send a clear message: Follow the law, bargain fairly, and end this strike. https://t.co/ynA8alexWt
— CWA (@CWAUnion) October 8, 2024
Department for Professional Employees:
Congrats to @The_AFM members at the Toledo Symphony Orchestra who have a new contract which will raise the musicians' pay by 39%! https://t.co/m0DCFEX13K
— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) October 7, 2024
Electrical Workers:
For the first time in 60 years, there’s a new crossing across the Detroit River between the U.S. and Canada, and it’s being constructed in part by #IBEW members from both countries. https://t.co/GlfN1hvCxv pic.twitter.com/5I1O6LiSxi
— IBEW (@IBEW) October 8, 2024
Heat and Frost Insulators:
Have Your Voice Heard! 🇺🇸
See how the candidates have supported labor unions, then set your Election Day plan for Nov. 5th.
➡️Check your registration & voting options: https://t.co/YyeZcck8ip#InsulatorsUnion #Insulators #InsulatorPride #electionday pic.twitter.com/QbDCPhuZtC
— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) October 8, 2024
Jobs With Justice:
Safety over profits! @centralfljwj have launched a confidential survey to compile info on employers threatening retaliation and leaving workers no time to prepare for #Milton. Take the survey at https://t.co/7pu9Usegom. pic.twitter.com/v74q2YUOVc
— Jobs With Justice (@jwjnational) October 7, 2024
Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:
🚨Vote Early, Arizona! 🗳️ Early voting for the 2024 general election starts on October 9th and ends November 1st at 5 PM. For more info, visit: https://t.co/C54FiDaFYY. Let’s make our voices heard! #Vota #Empower24 #VoteEarlyArizona pic.twitter.com/PHXDUq6Uz5
— LCLAA (@LCLAA) October 7, 2024
Labor Heritage Foundation:
🎨 This Week’s Labor Arts Calendar: Oct 7-14 🎨 📚 Tue: What Can We Learn From the Great Depression? 🎤 Wed: Patronage & Culture in Nashville’s Honky-Tonks
🎥 Fri: Unrest 📚 Sat: The Road to Matewan 🎶 Sat/Sun: The Cradle Will Rock
Details here https://t.co/ePAgFzTs9D pic.twitter.com/ZUB3LdYXgW
— Labor Heritage (@LaborHeritage1) October 7, 2024
Laborers:
#LIUNA is proud to support the Biden-Harris Administration’s new rule requiring the removal of lead pipes across the nation. This action will improve the drinking water of millions of Americans and support good union jobs in the process.
READ STATEMENT: https://t.co/38FpytOOv9 pic.twitter.com/rvjOC5LiQD
— LIUNA (@LIUNA) October 9, 2024
Machinists:
We stand with Boeing workers and Textron workers on strike! pic.twitter.com/1z1HtH9gMT
— Machinists Union (@MachinistsUnion) October 8, 2024
Maritime Trades Department:
We thank Gen. Van Ovost for her tireless commitment and the high esteem in which she held workers in the maritime trades. We look forward to working with Gen. Reed! https://t.co/YVZUizFEW4
— Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO (@Maritime_Trades) October 7, 2024
Metal Trades Department:
https://t.co/q6dzXNGYrV 👏 👏 👏 The new order further solidifies Philly Shipyard’s position in the U.S. shipbuilding and Jones Act markets
— Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) October 2, 2024
Mine Workers:
UMWA Endorses MaryAnn Folz for Monongalia County Commissioner.https://t.co/XLlehfdPKX
— United Mine Workers (@MineWorkers) October 8, 2024
Musical Artists:
AGMA Ratifies 4-Year Agreement with Chautauqua Opera: https://t.co/v9oMhgS8hS pic.twitter.com/AoshojW9Bl
— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) October 8, 2024
National Air Traffic Controllers Association:
NATCA President Rich Santa addressed ATC staffing and air traffic control modernization on a panel at @RAAtweets Leadership Conference in Washington, D.C. https://t.co/eKFZMzKe4I pic.twitter.com/r9VQY3REIA
— NATCA (@NATCA) October 8, 2024
National Association of Letter Carriers:
NEXT WEEK ➡️ Letter carriers are rallying together to demand protection from violence and crime on the job. If you are in the Madison, WI area, please come out and stand with letter carriers as we continue to make our message loud and clear: #EnoughIsEnough! More info about the… pic.twitter.com/Zy6Bls7UvJ
— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) October 8, 2024
National Domestic Workers Alliance:
Thank you, @POTUS, for your commitment to being a Care Champion! pic.twitter.com/O4rMPMogof
— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) October 8, 2024
National Nurses United:
Union nurses endorse @tammybaldwin for U.S. Senate!
Sen. Baldwin always stands with the nurses on our priority issues like #MedicareForAll, #WorkplaceViolencePrevention, #SafeStaffing, and the #PROAct, just to name a few! pic.twitter.com/RmsYWpTR2H
— NationalNursesUnited (@NationalNurses) October 9, 2024
NFL Players Association:
Statement on behalf of our Executive Committee regarding the locker room media policy. pic.twitter.com/Hn8LgzGDrU
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) October 4, 2024
North America's Building Trades Unions:
October is Careers in Construction Month. Visit https://t.co/JslIo3sMrS and see if a career in the building trades is right for you. pic.twitter.com/6ZMs5L5S8k
— The Building Trades (@NABTU) October 3, 2024
Office and Professional Employees:
Inspired by his culture and heritage, David Olivera became an early childhood educator. Because of Cesar Chavez, Dolores Huerta & @UFWupdates, he became a lifelong unionist.
We're proud to honor his contributions to @OPEIULocal8 & the entire movement this #HispanicHeritageMonth! pic.twitter.com/CcrmJX0cTB
— 🎃PEIU | #UnionStrong (@OPEIU) October 7, 2024
Painters and Allied Trades:
The work of our union is profound and it shapes our communities and the way we live! We’d like to spotlight our Glaziers from DC 81 Local 109 who are currently working on the new Omaha Central Library. pic.twitter.com/K4IhBSv77z
— IUPAT (@GoIUPAT) October 9, 2024
Plasterers and Cement Masons:
Project 2025 would restrict access to overtime, erode workplace safety, let states sidestep worker protections, allow worker misclassification, limit your free speech rights, make it harder to win union recognition & weaken bedrock worker protections. https://t.co/ttuS5sCj6o
— OPCMIA International (@opcmiaintl) October 9, 2024
Pride At Work:
Pride at Work Treasurer and Vice President of @afa_cwa is TRANSFORMING labor by the work she does! https://t.co/B2UoA4iOZl#solidarity #union
— Pride at Work (@PrideatWork) October 7, 2024
Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:
Did you know that last #PrimeDay, warehouse worker injuries surged by 37%? As part of the New Yorkers for a Fair Economy coalition, @RWDSU calls on @GovKathyHochul to #ProtectWarehouseWorkers and sign the Warehouse Worker Injury Reduction Act into law!https://t.co/fdOc2bFJaS
— RWDSU (@RWDSU) October 8, 2024
Roofers and Waterproofers:
A handheld device takes real-time readings of hydration levels. Could be lifesaving for laborers who work in high heat environments.https://t.co/CjrOVbiLKf
— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) October 4, 2024
SAG-AFTRA:
Attention #SagAftraMembers in Illinois, New Mexico and Nevada! Today is the LAST DAY to register online to #Vote2024! Make sure you’re ready for the general election on November 5: https://t.co/Or9KENeuWX pic.twitter.com/Ytc4twRmNK
— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) October 9, 2024
Solidarity Center:
Creating safe & secure work environments is essential for all employees” said #Kyrgyzstan Minister of Labor Jyldys Polotova during our recent panel on effectively applying @ILO #C190 on #Gender-based violence & harassment. @ILO_Research @womenslink pic.twitter.com/GiuP9LxPSO
— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) October 8, 2024
The NewsGuild-CWA:
🎲We're LIVE with @law360union on Twitch and we're talking about what it takes to WIN a STRIKE!
🎉Come and join us here: https://t.co/YxHO7neTnq pic.twitter.com/r1zOforR4z
— NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) October 2, 2024
Theatrical Stage Employees:
Meet today's #HispanicHeritageMonth spotlight, Graciela Zapata of @IATSELocal764! Graciela's proudest career moment was helping run the Local 764 costume shop by organizing drives, which boosted new member enrollment. Graciela, you rock! pic.twitter.com/AsI1nag7y7
— IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) October 8, 2024
Transport Workers Union:
.@TwuSamuelsen told @KellyCNBC that automating our industries is always designed to increase and maximize corporate profits, not to help Americans. And that Biden-Harris’ policies have advanced economic security for transport workers. https://t.co/nyj2Fj7t0k
— TWU (@transportworker) October 7, 2024
Transportation Trades Department:
Project 2025 is an attack on transportation workers and systems across the country.
Learn more at https://t.co/EWIRPCblcq. pic.twitter.com/I75mIQDWy3
— TTD | America's Transportation Unions (@TTDAFLCIO) October 7, 2024
UAW:
Today! It’s crunch time at #Stellantis.
RALLY with President Fain and our UAW family on Wednesday, 4 p.m., at Local 869 in Warren, MI, to make #Stellantis KEEP THE PROMISE.
RSVP: https://t.co/yiOO8Yuuoj#StandUpUAW pic.twitter.com/l1yl1y9HJ9
— UAW (@UAW) October 9, 2024
Union Veterans Council:
While @Tim_Walz fights for veterans and union workers, J.D. Vance stands with Trump’s anti-worker agenda. The choice is clear: stand with Walz, stand with unions. #VetsForWalz #UnionStrong #BetterInAUnion
— Union Veterans Council🪖✊ (@unionveterans) October 2, 2024
UNITE HERE:
Charles believes this election is about protecting what they’ve built💪🏾💪🏼
Under Trump, working people would face potential national abortion bans, mass deportations, the repeal of healthcare protections & more.
He's making sure every door is knocked & every vote is cast. pic.twitter.com/urahQHcePJ
— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) October 8, 2024
United Food and Commercial Workers:
A win for the history books!
49 workers at Bookmans bookstore in Tucson, recently made HISTORY by becoming the FIRST bookstore in Arizona to unionize by joining @UFCW99.
Congratulations!
➡️ https://t.co/h5zFqR8WQ4 pic.twitter.com/ATZNiU0MBy
— UFCW (@UFCW) October 7, 2024
United Steelworkers:
💪 Remember your power 💪
When it comes to holding your elected officials accountable for representing you and your fellow union siblings, remember the power you hold. They’ve been elected to represent you, and you have the right to ask for their support. pic.twitter.com/cmcGEV0kao
— United Steelworkers #EverybodysUnion (@steelworkers) October 8, 2024
Utility Workers:
“Companies are always looking to use technology to streamline things. We’ve seen changes in software and hardware for everything from timekeeping to restoration efforts.'
🧵 pic.twitter.com/zkIGDfteOg
— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) October 9, 2024
Working America:
Wages just aren’t enough to cover the cost of living. We deserve a decent wage for a decent day’s work. Are you with us? Let us know in the comments below.#FairWages #WorkingAmerica pic.twitter.com/Tppz6J9u2K
— Working America (@WorkingAmerica) October 8, 2024
Writers Guild of America East:
A union will drastically improve your work life. If you work in documentary, podcasting, online media or TV/radio news, contact a representative from the WGA East to answer your questions. #UnionStrong https://t.co/1OHXMbLO4g
— Writers Guild of America East (@WGAEast) October 8, 2024
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 10/08/2024 - 11:37Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Toledo Symphony Ratifies New Five-Year 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.
The Toledo Federation of Musicians (TFM)/American Federation of Musicians (AFM) Local 15-286 and the Toledo Symphony Orchestra (TSO) ratified a new five-year contract last month that will run until the end of the 2028–2029 season.
Throughout the lifetime of the agreement, TFM members will see major victories like a pay increase of 39% and higher matching contributions to their 403(b) retirement plans. The deal also includes the establishment of two new core string positions and conversion of several previously part-time roles into full-time positions. Musicians additionally won more paid parental leave, standardization of the tenure evaluation process and more that will allow them to continue giving world-class performances.
“We are proud of the collaborative spirit that defined these negotiations,” said Casey Gsell, TSO principal bassoon and chair of the Orchestra Committee. “This agreement not only provides significant financial improvements for our members but also enhances our role in the community, supports education, and ensures equitable treatment of our musicians. It is a true testament to what we can achieve when we work together.”
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 10/08/2024 - 10:02Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Indiana PetSmart Workers Win First Union for Chain in the U.S.
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 landslide 12–2 victory, PetSmart workers in Mishawaka, Indiana, have successfully won the first union election at a U.S. location of the pet superstore chain.
With organizing help from the United Commercial and Food Workers (UFCW), PetSmart associates, trainers, groomers and other staff are coming together and forming unions across the country. Workers are fighting for higher pay, improved hours and better working conditions with the protections of a powerful union contract. With a collective bargaining agreement, PetSmart Union said they will be able to better serve the animals of all shapes and sizes that they care for.
“With this victory, we’ve shown the company that we’re serious about coming together and unionizing for real change in our stores,” PetSmart Union wrote on their website. “Now, we’re focused on putting our collective voice into action and building strength throughout the country! We can’t wait to see which PetSmart store joins us next in our fight to make PetSmart the company we know it can be.”
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 10/07/2024 - 10:13Honoring the Contributions of all Working People: 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.
It's Time for a National Monument to Labor Hero Frances Perkins: “A monument to Secretary Perkins would stand as a monument not only to our country's history, but also to our future. She believed deep in her soul that ‘a government should aim to give all the people under its jurisdiction the best possible life.’ By honoring Secretary Perkins, we can make her legacy a living place that inspires our children and grandchildren, reaffirms our country's commitment to making our union more perfect, and tells our national story in a way that honors the contributions of all working people.”
Labor Union And Lawmakers Seek Solutions To Letter Carrier Robberies That Plague The U.S. Postal Service: “This week, a bill is expected to be introduced in Congress to appropriate federal dollars to help replace the antiquated keys with electronic versions that have no value to criminals, require all 93 U.S. attorneys to designate a prosecutor for postal crime, and to review sentencing guidelines for postal crimes, said Brian Renfroe, president of the National Association of Letter Carriers.”
Kamala Harris Joined Biden in Backing the Dockworkers' Strike at Major U.S. Ports: “The International Longshoremen Association (ILA) went on strike early Tuesday morning after its contract with the group that represents shipping companies, terminal operators, and port associations expired. Some 45,000 workers are on picket lines at more than a dozen major ports that collectively account for about 51% of the nation’s port capacity. The union is pushing for protection against automation, new technology in terminals, and wage hikes.”
Trick or Treat? It’s Always ‘Trick’: “Sadly, the holiday won’t be the only thing trying to scare us. It turns out that a lot of people want to scare us, and not just that friend or family member we know that just wants to make us jump in brief fear before laughing away all our concerns. Sadly, some people want to scare us in ways that aren’t an expression of joy or a celebration of a silly holiday. In case you missed the story last week, the Missouri Independent reported on a new development in the seemingly endless war between the worst corporate actors and their own workers. Once again, companies are looking to scare workers away from trying to unionize in their workplace. We just have to make sure it doesn’t work.”
Wesleyan Graduate Students Win Vote to Unionize 86–7: “Graduate students and Foreign Language Teaching Assistants (FLTAs) voted on Thursday, Sept. 26 to become part of the Wesleyan Graduate Labor Union (WesGLU), which is represented by the Office and Professional Employees International Union (OPEIU). The election, hosted by the National Labor Relations Board, was held in Usdan room B25. Of the 117 eligible voters, 79% voted in the election, with 86 votes in favor of unionizing and 7 against.”
Washington Teachers’ Union Reaches Tentative Contract Agreement with DCPS: “The Washington Teachers’ Union (WTU) and the District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) have reached a tentative five-year contract agreement that aims to improve working conditions for educators while addressing long-standing issues related to recruitment and retention. This agreement comes after more than a year of negotiations and is set to be voted on by union members in the coming weeks. AFT President Randi Weingarten applauded the union's efforts, calling the tentative agreement a ‘real accomplishment’ for educators who have been waiting for a fair contract.”
AFL-CIO Launches Ad Campaign Across Seven Battleground States in Support of Harris: “The AFL-CIO, the largest federation of unions in the U.S., said it launched a seven-figure digital and streaming ad campaign for Harris and Walz today in the battleground states of Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin—its largest ad buy of this election cycle. NBC News was first to report the labor group's ad buy. ‘This is the most consequential election in American history for union families,’ AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler said in a statement. ‘That’s why we’re laser-focused on ensuring that the union voters who will decide this election know the stakes and know the stark contrast between Kamala Harris’ and Donald Trump’s policies on our jobs, our unions, and our contracts.’”
AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler on Why More Workers Are Joining Unions Even in Right-To-Work States: “North Carolina is and will, for the foreseeable future, remain a so-called ‘right-to-work’ state in which laws make it extremely tough build workplace unions. Despite this enormous barrier, however, there’s growing evidence that interest in and support for organized labor in our state is enjoying a bit of a renaissance. With wages in many companies remaining low and flat, even as corporate profits and executive pay have soared, many North Carolina workers—especially younger workers—are rethinking unions. This reality was on display recently in Raleigh as the state AFL-CIO hosted a large and energetic gathering at its annual convention. And right after she delivered a keynote address at the event, NC Newsline caught up with the national president of the AFL-CIO, Liz Shuler.”
Would Trump Go After Workers’ Rights in a Second Term? Look at His Record: “GOP presidential candidate Donald Trump and his running mate, Sen. J.D. Vance, have recently tried to woo unions and working-class voters, but Cemex is just one of several consequential rulings by the Biden-era NLRB that would likely be reversed if Trump wins in November. Under Cemex, companies that commit unfair labor practices in the run-up to an election—such as holding mandatory anti-union meetings or retaliating against pro-union workers—can now be ordered to recognize the union and begin bargaining with it. On September 17, the NLRB’s Region 2-Manhattan office issued a complaint and notice of hearing in a case against Trader Joe’s in Manhattan and sought a bargaining order based on the Cemex ruling.”
National Symphony Orchestra Musicians Reach Agreement After Kennedy Center Strike: “The National Symphony Orchestra and the Kennedy Center reached an agreement Friday after musicians went on strike earlier in the day and picketed outside the D.C. landmark. The Kennedy Center said they and NSO musicians reached an 18-month labor agreement. Musicians walked off the job on Friday morning as part of an effort to secure higher pay, according to their union, the DC Federation of Musicians, Local 161-710, American Federation of Musicians.”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 10/04/2024 - 15:30It's Time for a National Monument to Labor Hero Frances Perkins
If you work for a living, you owe every comfort—every safety measure, every break, every vacation day—to Frances Perkins, the nation's first-ever woman to serve as a Cabinet secretary.
During her 12 years as secretary of labor, Perkins transformed work in the United States. To address the devastation of the Great Depression, she advised President Franklin D. Roosevelt on creating a public works program that put unemployed Americans back to work building critical infrastructure across the country. She was the powerhouse behind many of Roosevelt's New Deal programs, establishing a federal minimum wage and overtime pay and banning child labor exploitation. And she was the chair of the Committee on Economic Security, which created the blueprint for Social Security. Frances Perkins got it done.
As the first woman to lead the AFL-CIO, the nation's largest federation of labor unions, I am deeply inspired by the example that Secretary Perkins set. Even though her work has touched the lives of every working person in America, Perkins remains an unsung hero in our national history.
It's time to change that. President Joe Biden, the most pro-labor president at least since FDR and arguably in American history, now has an opportunity to recognize Secretary Perkins' remarkable legacy by designating the Perkins Homestead in Newcastle, Maine, as a national monument and a part of the national park system.
Monuments tell the story of who we are as a country. They connect us to past generations, and they serve as educational tools and inspirations for our future. They reflect our deepest-held values. But historically, our monuments have failed to capture the critical roles women have played in our nation's story.
This past March, Biden signed an executive order to increase the representation of women in our national parks and historical sites, and depicted in monuments. A public monument dedicated to Frances Perkins would greatly expand our collective imagination about what's possible in America—exactly in line with what Perkins herself believed. She knew that maintaining a broken status quo that leaves our friends and neighbors behind is far more dangerous than being brave and trying something new.
In a last-minute attempt to negotiate a new contract, Secretary of Labor Frances Perkins met today with representatives of the United Mine Workers and Pennsylvania Anthracite Operators at the Waldorf-Astoria. The meeting ended without agreement.
Secretary Perkins once said that "a healthy discontent keeps us alert to the changing needs of our time." When I travel the country and speak to working people and organizers, I hear that same spirit of productive unrest.
I hear these workers say they're tired of the way things have been going. I hear them say they're tired of their rent going up while their paychecks don't go as far as they used to. They're tired of watching CEOs get richer and richer while they struggle to save for the future.
But I also hear something else very clearly: Workers are fighting back. Workers are growing our power in this country in a way we haven't seen in a generation. Together, we are a force to be reckoned with.
This post originally appeared in Newsweek.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 10/04/2024 - 10:18Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Lewiston-Auburn Transit Drivers Ratify First Contract with Western Maine Transportation Services
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.
Drivers with Lewiston-Auburn's Citylink bus service ratified their first union contract with Western Maine Transportation Services. The contract covers about a dozen transit workers, members of the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) and includes a nearly 13% wage increase over three years. The new contract also includes pay increases that reward longevity.
"At the end of the day, when you have happy drivers," said Andy O'Brien, communications director of the Maine AFL-CIO. "You're better able to provide a better service for the riders in the community."
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 10/04/2024 - 10:04Hispanic Heritage Month Profiles: Raul Aceves Cisneros
Throughout Hispanic Heritage Month, the AFL-CIO will be profiling leaders and activists to spotlight the diverse contributions Hispanics and Latinos have made to the labor movement. Today's profile features Raul Aceves Cisneros of the Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT).
Raul Aceves Cisneros has been a union member since 2019. “The union has made a difference in my life since I joined. I’m able to provide insurance to my family because of the union. I also have a better wage, which means a lot nowadays. I have learned many more things about my job throughout the years I’ve been with the union, and I have implemented those skills so I can be better at my job. One more thing I have learned is that there is more equity and respect in a union workplace than other jobs.”
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 10/03/2024 - 10:30Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Washington Teachers’ Union Reaches Tentative 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 Washington Teachers’ Union (WTU), a local of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), reached a tentative agreement (TA) Monday with the District of Columbia Public Schools for a new five-year contract.
This TA comes a year after the expiration of WTU’s previous contract with the Washington, D.C., school district—the union credits the dedication and commitment of bargaining committee members for securing this win. The deal includes fair and competitive pay raises, more structured breaks to prevent burnout for both educators and their students, increased time for lesson planning and preparation, and provisions that ensure fair workloads for educators.
“The bargaining team heard from members about the need for improved working conditions. We took that to heart and were able to secure many provisions that show respect to educators, such as breaks to prevent teacher and student burnout, time to prepare and plan lessons, and fair workloads,” said WTU President Jacqueline Pogue Lyons. “The team also pushed hard and obtained decent and fair pay raises over the course of the five-year contract, despite the district’s contention that it was working in a tight financial environment.”
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 10/03/2024 - 10:28Worker Wins: Freedom from Intimidation at Work
Our latest roundup of worker wins includes numerous examples of working people organizing, bargaining and mobilizing for a better life.
Workers at County Assessor’s Office in West Virginia Join UMWA: On Friday, staff at the Monongalia County Assessor’s Office in West Virginia successfully voted to join the Mine Workers (UMWA). This victory comes after months of organizing efforts led by workers and union representatives to support their right to a free and fair union election. These staff members are the latest in a growing number of public sector workers across West Virginia who have chosen to form a union with UMWA to secure the wages, collective voice and respect they deserve. “We are proud to welcome the employees of the Monongalia County Assessor’s Office to the UMWA family,” said International President Cecil E. Roberts. “Their decision puts them on a path toward greater job security, fair treatment, and representation on the job. We will ensure that their voices are heard, and their rights are protected.”
California Becomes Latest State to Ban Captive Audience Meetings: Employers in California can no longer require workers to attend captive audience meetings thanks to a measure signed into law by Gov. Gavin Newsom on Friday. The new law prevents workers from being forced to attend meetings where the company compels them to listen to opinions on political and religious matters unrelated to their jobs. Staff attending these meetings can understandably fear that their jobs are at risk if they don’t adopt the employer’s viewpoint. SB 399 was backed by unions across the state and makes California the largest of more than a half-dozen states to ban this tactic commonly used by management in response to union organizing drives. “Everyone deserves freedom from intimidation at work,” said Lorena Gonzalez, president of the California Labor Federation. “No one should be forced against their will to attend captive audience meetings where their bosses threaten and coerce them out of reporting labor violations, or exercising their right to join a union. Today, Governor Newsom sided with working people over corporate lobbyists by signing SB 399. Once again, the power of working people won.”
National Symphony Orchestra Musicians Reach Agreement After Kennedy Center Strike: National Symphony Orchestra (NSO) performers and the Kennedy Center reached a tentative agreement (TA) on Friday after Washington D.C. Federation of Musicians, AFM Local 161-710, members went on strike earlier in the day. Musicians walked off the job on Friday morning—after voting unanimously to authorize a strike a week prior—wearing matching red union shirts and carrying signs that read, “Support NSO musicians” and “Keep NSO world-class.” If members approve the new contract, it will increase wages 4% in the first year of the deal and another 4% in the second year. The TA also includes expanded health care options, paid parental leave, updates to audition and tenure processes, and more. “I’m so proud of the work the committee has done throughout the summer and throughout the year and especially right now, and the support that we have throughout the building among our other trade unions,” said Edgardo Malaga Jr., president of the Washington D.C. Federation of Musicians.
Omni Providence Hotel Workers Ratify New Contract: UNITE HERE Local 26 members who work at the Omni Providence in Rhode Island ratified a new four-year contract last week that secures higher wages and better benefits. This victory came seven weeks after workers at the downtown Providence hotel voted to authorize a strike over management’s refusal to bargain a fair contract. Their previous agreement expired last January, and members were laser-focused on winning a deal that would address rising costs of living. To show the Omni Providence they meant business, members began wearing lanyards to work to signal that they’d signed up for strike benefits and were ready and willing to walk out. “My co-workers and I put a lot of work into this fight,” said George Cook, a banquet attendant at the Omni. “We were ready to do whatever it took to win. I’m happy that we’re able to get the best contract we ever had, with wage increases that will help us pay our rent and take care of our families.”
UAW Tool & Die Unit Reaches Tentative Agreement at Ford’s River Rouge: On Wednesday, the UAW Local 600’s Tool & Die Unit at Ford’s River Rouge Complex reached a tentative agreement (TA) with Ford Motor Co., one day ahead of its strike deadline. Roughly 500 workers in the Tool & Die Unit work at the Dearborn, Michigan, facility. Members were prepared to go on strike starting Sept. 26 if the multinational automotive manufacturer refused to address issues such as job security, wage parity and work rules. The negotiated TA includes protections against the impacts of advancements in 3D printing and establishes a process to secure additional die work as required. Additionally, UAW won a provision to eliminate the wage disparity for skilled trades, ensuring fair and equal pay across the board. “The members at the Rouge Complex understand the power of strength in numbers,” said UAW Vice President Chuck Browning. “They stuck together and showed Ford that they were willing to stand up if necessary to win what they deserve.”
Michigan Receives Federal Investment from Biden–Harris Administration to Create New Clean Energy Jobs: Funding from the Biden–Harris administration’s bipartisan infrastructure law is helping Michigan companies expand their operations and create hundreds of new manufacturing jobs in the state. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and officials at the Department of Energy announced this month that four companies will receive $355 million in federal grant funding to help grow manufacturing of batteries for electric vehicles and renewable energy storage. As a result, this funding will enable these Michigan-based employers to create nearly 2,000 new jobs—including construction jobs needed to build new manufacturing facilities—and retain more than 400 existing positions. “Because our elected leaders stand in strong partnership with organized labor, Michiganders have the guarantee that these investments will go towards creating good-paying jobs where every worker has the freedom to form and join a union without intimidation or retaliation,” Michigan AFL-CIO President Ron Bieber said. “We applaud the Biden-Harris and Whitmer administrations for continuing to put workers first by ensuring the cars, tech, and energy of the future are built right here in Michigan by union hands.”
Culinary Union Celebrates Las Vegas Strip Becoming 100% Union with Acting Labor Secretary Julie Su: After UNITE HERE’s Culinary Union and Bartenders Union reached a new contract with the owners of the Venetian late last month, workers and labor leaders are celebrating that every resort on the Las Vegas Strip now officially recognizes the union. The Culinary Union and the Department of Labor (DOL) acting Labor Secretary Julie Su held an event recognizing this historic victory on Thursday. This first-time union contract covering more than 4,000 of The Venetian Resort team members has been a fight 25 years in the making. “We are proud to celebrate a new day here at the Venetian,” said Ted Pappageorge, secretary-treasurer for the Culinary Union. “The fight to unionize the Venetian has been one of the longest and most significant in Culinary Union’s 89-year history. From standing up to anti-union billionaire Sheldon Adelson in 1999, to winning the right at the U.S. Supreme Court to picket and protest on sidewalks in front of Las Vegas casinos, and now securing a historic first contract, workers never gave up….This victory today is also a testament to the leadership of the Biden–Harris administration, whose unwavering commitment to ensure workers can organize and win a union has been a source of great strength.” “This contract now brings the Las Vegas Strip to a 100% unionized workforce,” said Secretary Su. “When President Biden says the middle-class built America and unions built the middle class, he's talking about all of you….We want to make sure that a [good] job like that is available to every worker, to every family, in every community all across the country, and you are showing that that is possible here. So thank you for what you have done.”
Workers at Powerhouse Animation Studios Ratify First Union Contract: The Animation Guild (TAG), Theatrical and Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 839, announced on Tuesday that artists and production workers at Powerhouse Animation Studios in Austin, Texas, have ratified their first contract, marking a massive victory for TAG’s first organizing campaign in a “right to work” state. TAG members at Powerhouse secured powerful agreement language governing wage equality, job security, retirement benefits and more. Staff first went public with their organizing drive in April 2023, and studio management voluntarily recognized TAG as the workers’ bargaining agent three months later. “This is one of the strongest agreements we have been able to negotiate, and the crew’s resolve to their priority issues is the reason,” said TAG Business Representative Steve Kaplan. “I also want to acknowledge the work Powerhouse and its leadership team put in. We all had to be flexible to get to the finish line, and they showed their commitment to being a productive partner with the Union in the negotiations. I look forward to welcoming our newest Texas-based members to Guild membership, and working with the studio to build on this strong agreement in the future.”
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 10/03/2024 - 10:16Hispanic Heritage Month Profiles: Erica Cervantes
Throughout Hispanic Heritage Month, the AFL-CIO will be profiling leaders and activists to spotlight the diverse contributions Hispanics and Latinos have made to the labor movement. Today's profile features Erica Cervantes of the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU).
“I’m very grateful to be a member of ATU Local 416 because they make sure our company provides equal opportunities for all employees. ATU also gives me security to be myself, to show my personality and who I am as a person.”
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 10/02/2024 - 10:01Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Omni New Haven Workers Reach Contract Settlement After 4-Day 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.
A four-day strike has ended at the Omni New Haven Hotel at Yale in Connecticut, where 122 workers walked out seeking better pay, better working conditions and fair treatment. They overwhelmingly voted to ratify the contract that includes first-year wage increases of up to 14.5%, maintains current health care and pension benefits.
“We are thrilled that our members at the Omni New Haven Hotel at Yale stood together and secured a contract that respects their hard work and dedication,” said Josh Stanley, secretary-treasurer of UNITE HERE Local 217.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 10/02/2024 - 10:01Grab Your Walking Shoes: 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:
Labor walks are the #1 tool we use to communicate with union members. They play a vital role in electing pro-worker candidates to public office. 🗳️
Grab your walking shoes every Saturday from now to Election Day, and help us talk to union members about endorsed candidates. 👟✊ pic.twitter.com/BQbtAGvsXQ
— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) September 27, 2024
California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:
Thank you @GavinNewsom for signing our top priority - SB399 (Wahab) — to end mandatory captive audience meetings! pic.twitter.com/OmMPTzxRlE
— California Federation of Labor Unions (@CaliforniaLabor) September 27, 2024
Colorado AFL-CIO:
Today we stood in solidarity with @UFCW_7 and @Teamsters455 in opposition to the Albertsons/Kroger merger. This merger would cause detrimental effects to local grocery stores pic.twitter.com/iZPnT9HTOd
— Colorado AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOCO) October 1, 2024
Connecticut AFL-CIO:
Union members are knocking doors for pro-worker candidates in Groton, East Lyme, Waterford, New Britain, Ansonia & Derby today! #LaborVotes #1u pic.twitter.com/gClg6dpD66
— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) September 28, 2024
Georgia State AFL-CIO:
Even in the darkest hours, our union family shines bright. Let’s support each other through the challenges of this hurricane and come out stronger on the other side. We’ve got each other’s backs! #UnionResilience #1u #StrongerTogether pic.twitter.com/nphOefnN7Z
— Georgia AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOGeorgia) September 27, 2024
Illinois AFL-CIO:
Good communications are vital to the labor movement. Join us for a FREE training with 617 Media Group to discuss member communications for GOTV and beyond.
🗓️ 10/15/24
🕐 4PM
📍 Hire 360, 2540 S. State St., Chicago // Zoom option available
RSVP here: https://t.co/hHFeFGKIqU pic.twitter.com/4pHgWAOlgo
— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) September 30, 2024
Iowa Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO:
You're damn right they do! 💪
Order your shirt today: https://t.co/jbvyJIiTbo pic.twitter.com/odm25YisPF
— Iowa AFL-CIO ✊ (@IowaAFLCIO) August 29, 2024
Maine AFL-CIO:
Rep. Laurel Libby is running for re-election to represent Auburn & Minot. She is also one of a tiny number of Maine state legislators with a 0% lifetime score on the Maine AFL-CIO Working Families Legislative Scorecard. That's pretty hard to do! pic.twitter.com/jn8VbsTru9
— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) September 27, 2024
Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
Dozens of union members are out on the doors in Mansfield, Norton, and Foxboro talking to other members about electing proud @IBEW2222 member @PaulFeeneyMA and proud @seiu888 member @KostasLoukos to the MA Senate and MA House #mapoli pic.twitter.com/mMEAK69jEe
— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) September 28, 2024
Michigan State AFL-CIO:
A huge victory for Michigan home care workers!
Tens of thousands of home care workers across the state struggle to make ends meet while working tirelessly to care for our seniors and most vulnerable.
Restoring their collective bargaining rights is long overdue. https://t.co/lN6xmCPqh6
— Michigan AFL-CIO ✊ (@MIAFLCIO) September 25, 2024
Minnesota AFL-CIO:
Ahead of Tuesday’s Vice-Presidential debate, Minnesota’s union members wanted to share a little bit about the @Tim_Walz we know. #BetterInAUnion #UnionsforHarris #UnionsforHarrisWalz pic.twitter.com/OpIz2qM9W5
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) September 30, 2024
Missouri AFL-CIO:
Canvassing and phone banking for candidates that support working people is key. Grassroots efforts like these are vital in shaping policies that impact Missouri's working families. Every conversation makes a difference.
Sign up: https://t.co/MozdUEsxRA pic.twitter.com/2D1FuaigYX
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) September 30, 2024
Nevada State AFL-CIO:
From the north to the south, the Nevada State AFL-CIO was out in full force canvassing with our union brothers & sisters!
38 days, 5 weekends to go. We’re getting closer and closer to the finish line and it’ll be so sweet to celebrate our victories on November 5th! pic.twitter.com/usp7hTxr5p
— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) September 28, 2024
New Jersey State AFL-CIO:
Women’s rights are at stake this November. Register and vote. For more information on Project 2025, go to https://t.co/2b65aZzG0q.#StopProject2025 pic.twitter.com/wcX6hla8LZ
— New Jersey AFL-CIO (@NJAFLCIO) September 27, 2024
New York State AFL-CIO:
ALBANY: APWU's National Day of Action is next week! Don't miss the Capital Region rally: https://t.co/6Cr1zSoDfo pic.twitter.com/7gfdogzIV8
— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) September 27, 2024
Ohio AFL-CIO:
Meanwhile, actual voter fraud is happening in #Ohio but @FrankLaRose and @DaveYostOH have said nothing. Proves two things:
1) We must continue to support local media outlets and;
2) This has never been about voter fraud, just a false narrative to continue mass voter suppression https://t.co/EoF1wqAaTX
— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) October 1, 2024
Oregon AFL-CIO:
Join #OregonLabor for TWO canvasses on Saturday. In Portland we’re knocking doors for April Dobson and Dan Rayfield. In Bend we’re talking to voters about Anthony Broadman and Emerson Levy. Coffee, lunch and training provided. Sign up and get more info at https://t.co/B1B90w7Rqn pic.twitter.com/9Dk2hUY68Y
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) September 30, 2024
Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:
As AG, @KamalaHarris cracked down on wage theft & delivered for working people.
When it comes down to brass tacks, she’s repeatedly demonstrated she will fight WITH working people instead of AGAINST us.
Just can’t say that about the other guy. #UnionsForHarris #Labor2024 https://t.co/waOH3wvN1I
— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) September 30, 2024
Texas AFL-CIO:
JOB ALERT: The Texas AFL-CIO is hiring a Communications Director!
Apply here: https://t.co/VDi4sn5LNN
— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) September 30, 2024
Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:
Solidarity with @myWSNA VNA Home Health nurses fighting for safety protections.
If you're in Spokane, please sign their community petition to show support for the workers' demands for safety supports when providing in-home care. ⬇️ https://t.co/w8u0VKKTYo
— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) September 30, 2024
Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 10/01/2024 - 09:37Hispanic Heritage Month Profiles: Aleta Chavez
Throughout Hispanic Heritage Month, the AFL-CIO will be profiling leaders and activists to spotlight the diverse contributions Hispanics and Latinos have made to the labor movement. Today's profile features Aleta Chavez of the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA-CWA).
In addition to being active in her local union, Aleta Chavez has been very active in her community. She participated in mission work in Guatemala and volunteered with the Dallas Police Department and Habitat for Humanity. She has been a member of the League of United Latin American Citizens and numerous student organizations while enrolled in Cedar Valley College’s veterinary technology program.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 10/01/2024 - 09:29Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Omni Providence Hotel Workers 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.
UNITE HERE Local 26 members who work at the Omni Providence in Rhode Island ratified a new four-year contract last week that secures higher wages and better benefits.
This victory came seven weeks after workers at the downtown Providence hotel voted to authorize a strike over management’s refusal to bargain a fair contract. Their previous agreement expired last January, and members were laser-focused on winning a deal that would address rising costs of living. To show the Omni Providence they meant business, members began wearing lanyards to work to signal that they’d signed up for strike benefits and were ready and willing to walk out.
“My co-workers and I put a lot of work into this fight,” said George Cook, a banquet attendant at the Omni. “We were ready to do whatever it took to win. I’m happy that we’re able to get the best contract we ever had, with wage increases that will help us pay our rent and take care of our families.”
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 10/01/2024 - 09:24
.jpg){kind=link}