CAP Report: Unions Build Wealth for Working People
A new report from the Center for American Progress (CAP) shows that union membership helps build wealth for working-class families. The report concludes that "unions are a crucial means for building wealth among the working class and reducing racial wealth gaps for workers without four-year college degrees."
Other key findings from the report include:
- The median wealth for working-class union households ($201,240) is nearly four times that of nonunion working-class households ($52,221).
- Being a union member helps close the wealth gap between working-class and college-educated households.
- Working families of color see the largest percentage of gains from union membership.
- For all races, working-class union families are far more likely to own homes.
The report concludes: "[T]here is a long way to go to ensure that workers are able to join unions and have access to the many ways by which union members can boost their wealth. Policymakers at the federal and state levels must properly implement these laws to encourage joint labor-management partnerships for training and safety, for example. Policymakers should also design industrial policies that benefit all of the working class, particularly those who are employed in services. Finally—and most directly—policymakers need to reform labor law to make it fairer and easier for workers to form a union and bargain collectively, and they can start by passing the PRO Act."
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 05/04/2023 - 09:48Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Yvonne Brooks: Making History
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
As the labor community celebrated International Workers’ Day, the United Way spotlighted the history made by Yvonne Brooks, the president of the Georgia State AFL-CIO:
“Yvonne was named to her post in a few months ago, after serving as Treasurer of Georgia’s AFL-CIO for 11 years. She’s only the second Black woman to lead a state AFL-CIO federation in America. She’s a role model for me, so I was honored to have a chance to sit down with her to talk about her experiences.
“It all started with her mother, a formidable woman who recently passed away at 102 years old. ‘She was a union member, and helped organize two of her workplaces,’ Yvonne recalled. ‘I didn't even know this until way (into) my career. It was always in my blood, being a union member.’ Her mother, who came from a family of 10 children, was always an advocate, looking out after others—a trait Yvonne has inherited as well.
“Yvonne started out as a steward in her workplace, a state and city juvenile detention center in St. Louis. After historic flooding hit the city in 1995, she and her colleagues worked long hours to make sure the youth were safe and taken care of. The state gave everyone a bonus after that, but her department fell through the cracks. ‘This is when I caught the organizing bug,’ she recalls.”
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 05/04/2023 - 09:30
Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month Profiles: Mai Xiong
For Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month this year, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights in the United States. Today's profile is Mai Xiong of the United Steelworker (USW).
Mai Xiong is a health care worker and the recording secretary for USW Local 9600 who has been crucial to the Bargaining Committee. She helped design a T-shirt that included a message of solidarity in multiple languages, which inspired Hmong workers who finally saw themselves represented. It made a huge difference in galvanizing the group and winning a great contract.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 05/03/2023 - 15:01Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Actors' Equity Association Membership Ratifies New Unified Touring Agreement with The Broadway League
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Actors’ Equity Association and The Broadway League officially have a new contract governing touring productions, following ratification by vote of Equity membership. The new touring agreement will be in effect through Sept. 7, 2026.
“Creating a new, unified touring agreement has been a long-term goal, and it was a massive undertaking," said Kate Shindle, president of Actors' Equity Association. "Thousands of collective hours—from the negotiating team, from Equity staff, from committees, from our members who mobilized to an historic degree—went into pouring this foundation that we can now build upon. We made some major gains: more competitive salaries, producer-paid housing options across the entire touring landscape, meaningful increases in per diem and some new models for coverage, so that the show can go on without the need for actors and stage managers to work when we're sick or injured. The new contract contains advances in equity, diversity and inclusion, paid sick leave for everyone in the Equity company and safeguards for those who need reproductive and gender-affirming care. Touring is hard, and living on the road full time presents unique challenges. We will continue to focus on improving quality of life for the actors and stage managers who commit to bringing world-class theatre to communities across the country. I am grateful for the sustained, passionate and creative work of everyone who contributed to this negotiation."
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 05/03/2023 - 09:57Honoring Those Who Died on the Job: 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.
Workers Memorial Day Honors Those Who Died on the Job: “The country’s largest labor union is calling for stronger safety protections for workers after a new report found more than 5,000 people died on the job in 2021, including 105 in Wisconsin. The AFL-CIO details the findings in the latest installment of its annual report evaluating health and safety conditions for the country’s workers. According to the report, 343 workers die each day in the U.S. from hazardous working conditions, with the fatality rate rising in 2021 to 3.6 per 100,000 U.S. workers. In 2021, 5,190 workers were killed on the job, the union estimates, while another 120,000 died from job-related diseases.”
Wildcat Materials Employee Strike Ends with New Contract Agreement: “Employees of a Columbia construction supply company returned to work Thursday after a eight-day strike. Wildcat Materials employees, who are members of the Laborers' International Union of North America (LiUNA) Local 955, voted unanimously to ratify their contract Thursday morning, according to a news release.”
Senate Panel Advances Biden Labor Nominee Julie Su: “The AFL-CIO is fighting back, running ads in Arizona and D.C. backing Su’s efforts to counter wage theft in California. The ads tell viewers that workers are ‘tired of getting ripped off by big corporations.’ The labor federation is also mobilizing its members to lobby senators. ‘We’re going to defend Julie against these baseless corporate special interests attacks,’ AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler told reporters last week. ‘Every senator, especially those that haven’t yet said that they’ll vote yes, needs to be aware of how much this confirmation means to working people’s lives.’”
Bustle Digital Group, Writers Guild East Reach First Union Contract: “Bustle Digital Group and the Writers Guild of America, East have reached a tentative agreement with management on a first union contract, the publisher announced Wednesday. BDG says it won guaranteed minimum salary increases, strong benefits, and fair severance and protection from layoffs in its two-year contract fight. More details will be made public when the contract is ratified by members.”
Storytellers at a Los Angeles Planetarium Join the Union Representing Broadway Actors: “The planetarium lecturers at Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles have unionized. They hope that doing so will help preserve their longstanding tradition of live storytelling.”
Julie Su Is a Champion for Workers Everywhere. The Senate Must Confirm Her: “President Biden’s nomination of Julie Su for Labor secretary presents an opportunity to appoint an experienced, historic, and committed leader who has dedicated her career to advocating for workers’ rights. Her nomination comes at a crucial time, as the country emerges from the economic crisis brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic and workers across America are exercising their constitutional right to form a union in the face of corporate opposition and union-busting. At this critical juncture, workers need a strong advocate in the Department of Labor.”
Paper Mill, Union Workers Agree on Labor Contract: “There’s a new labor contract for workers at a Lyons Falls paper mill. Twin Rivers paper company and the United Steelworkers Local 956 have agreed on a new 3-year deal. There are 44 union workers at the mill. Twin Rivers bought the facility in 2016. It was the Burrows Paper Corporation.”
The Bank Crisis Is the Latest Argument to Expand Postal Service Banking: “Since the government is already in the business of supporting the banking system, the people ought to demand a system that is designed to better serve the public interest and the common good. Any debate about the future of banking in the United States should first take a page from the history of postal banking. During its 55-year existence, beginning in 1910 by an act of Congress, the U.S. Postal Savings System became one of the largest depository institutions in the country. It served as a safe harbor during the Great Depression and provided simple and reliable basic banking services, especially in rural communities.”
Goddard College Workers Reach Contract Agreement, End Strike: “After 28 days on strike, staff at Goddard College in Plainfield have struck an agreement with the administration that union members are calling a success. After a nearly month-long strike, unionized staff at the school reached an agreement and are now back on the job. ‘We’re all very happy to be back, and it’s been a long month for sure,’ said Trevor Utton, a union organizer.”
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 05/03/2023 - 08:39An Injury to One is an Injury to All: 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 Twitter.
Alabama AFL-CIO:
AFL-CIO Secretary/Treasurer Fred Redman speaks on #MayDay International Labir Day @ Alabama State University in Montgomery Alabama. #1U pic.twitter.com/kXJcWS81dP
— Alabama AFL-CIO (@AlabamaAFLCIO) May 1, 2023Alaska AFL-CIO:
“8 hours for work, 8 hours for rest, 8 hours for what we will” was the slogan of the Haymarket Martyrs, who were killed while on strike in May, 1886.
On #InternationalWorkersDay & every day, we carry their strength with us in our fight for economic justice. pic.twitter.com/c2wvjY63mi
Arizona AFL-CIO:
Today, now recognized as #WorkersMemorialDay. Let us all take a moment to reflect on the importance of workplace safety and the need to protect workers' rights. It is our responsibility to create safe and healthy working conditions for all. #MournForTheDead #FightForTheLiving pic.twitter.com/8NvQokS4Ei
— Arizona AFL-CIO (@ArizonaAFLCIO) April 28, 2023California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:
✊The California Labor Movement stands with the striking members of @WGAWest @WGAEast. There is no TV or film industry without the writers. #Solidarity https://t.co/68MezRwPE7
— California Labor Federation (@CaliforniaLabor) May 2, 2023Colorado AFL-CIO:
Colorado union member (AFGE) John Butkovich is featured in the NY Times discussing the impacts of staffing shortages in federal prisons on safety and morale #coleg #copolitics https://t.co/DhmbwoGjp3
— Colorado AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOCO) May 2, 2023Connecticut AFL-CIO:
The union difference is more than higher wages. Union members are more likely to have access to employer-sponsored health care and retirement benefits. Unions also play a significant role in reducing racial resentment. #1u #InternationalWorkersDay2023 https://t.co/V2LkvE3QXG
— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) May 1, 2023Georgia State AFL-CIO:
🎯 Let's set a goal: Zero workplace injuries! Together, we can create a culture of safety and responsibility. 💯 #GoalZero #WorkersSafety#georgia #1u #atlanta #workplace #culture #love #peace #healthy pic.twitter.com/tbxzL31QyM
— Georgia AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOGeorgia) May 2, 2023Illinois AFL-CIO:
It's #MayDay.
Never forget, there is power in a union.
Learn more about the history of May Day and the Haymarket Affair: https://t.co/RoANr5MO1P pic.twitter.com/7DiE6gu4VO
Indiana State AFL-CIO:
This is what solidarity looks like! When working people run, we ALL win. This coalition knocked hundreds of doors and made hundreds of calls for @DrayforIndy and @Kristin4Indy today. See you on Tuesday ✊#pathtopower#1u #solidarityisaverb #unionyes pic.twitter.com/JvZF8AFXkU
— Indiana AFL-CIO (@INAFLCIO) April 29, 2023Iowa Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO:
State and local experience proves school vouchers are a failed policy that must be opposed https://t.co/3AzKfz2C9o
— Iowa AFL-CIO (@IowaAFLCIO) April 26, 2023Maine AFL-CIO:
This is extreme government overreach. Tell @SenatorBrakey, Sens. Trey Stewart, Marianne Moore, & Matt Harrington, & Reps. Billy Bob Faulkingham, Tracy Quint, Gary Drinkwater, Heidi Sampson & Laurel Libby to withdraw their support for this anti-worker bill! #mepolitics pic.twitter.com/Uhz7XXp0Kc
— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) April 28, 2023Maryland State and D.C. AFL-CIO:
Workers were proud to join President Biden at IUOE Local 77's training center to hear his economic plan for America and how unions will lead the way. pic.twitter.com/FnEBE8V4NP
— Maryland State and DC AFL-CIO (@MDDCStateFed) April 20, 2023Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
Saturday was our annual Union Member Candidate School - designed to educate union members on running for #mapoli public office and the political process
MA AFL-CIO President Tolman perfectly boiled it down to:
"If you knock the doors and you meet the people -you win." 1/5 pic.twitter.com/JMcssSD6yG
Michigan State AFL-CIO:
Today, on International Workers Day, the labor movement and Lansing leaders are gathering together to celebrate the historic restoration of workers’ rights. pic.twitter.com/OxCp97Ub32
— Michigan AFL-CIO ✊ (@MIAFLCIO) May 1, 2023Minnesota AFL-CIO:
We are ready for #PaidLeaveMN! #mnleg #1u https://t.co/MsGMkAk84g
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) May 2, 2023Missouri AFL-CIO:
We stand with @liunalocal955 in their fight for a fair contract with the @CoMoGov. Fair wages, benefits, and working conditions are critical to supporting working families and building strong communities. We call on the City to negotiate in good faith and reach a fair agreement. pic.twitter.com/wfR3onKLzB
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) May 1, 2023Montana State AFL-CIO:
Today on Workers' Memorial Day, we honor workers in Montana and across the country who lost their lives or have been severely injured on the job.
We'll continue to fight for better safety protections on the job because it's what Montana workers and their families deserve. pic.twitter.com/rnwDSaAOZG
Nevada State AFL-CIO:
Today, we were proud to stand with @Culinary226 in opposition to #SB441. This bill is an affront to the hardworking hospitality workers that ensure that Nevada has a world-class tourism economy. We should be prioritizing them—not the paychecks of hotel CEOs. pic.twitter.com/LIFQdI8i1A
— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) May 1, 2023New Hampshire AFL-CIO:
Our @PresBrackett of the @NHAFLCIO speaking today at @nhcosh #Workersmemorialweek vigil. We stand in #Solidarity with all workers fighting for safety on the job ✊#NHPolitics pic.twitter.com/IP55UbLoOW
— New Hampshire AFL-CIO (@NHAFLCIO) April 20, 2023New Jersey State AFL-CIO:
Gov. Murphy Signs Bill Improving Unemployment Insurance Benefits for Striking Workershttps://t.co/HFXX0oZENb pic.twitter.com/NKuCDM62US
— New Jersey AFL-CIO (@NJAFLCIO) April 24, 2023New Mexico Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO:
See you all there! 🙌
🗓️ Date: May 10th
📍 Location: UNM Albuquerque Campus
Outside North Entrance of the Student Union Building
🕒 Time: May 10, 12:00-1:00 PM#LivingWage #Rally #May10 #UNM #WorkersRights #UnionStrong #StandTogether pic.twitter.com/jiiVmCE4ZQ
New York State AFL-CIO:
Join the picket line today! https://t.co/qxfBGLLohz
— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) May 2, 2023North Carolina State AFL-CIO:
“My son was amazing. He did everything to help me,” Caraballo said. ‘He never came back home’: NC families push for more regulations after losing loved ones on the job https://t.co/22bYUNxzKK via @WNCN #WorkersMemorialDay #IWMD23 #NorthCarolina #1u
— NC State AFL-CIO // #CountMeIn (@NCStateAFLCIO) May 1, 2023North Dakota AFL-CIO:
SB 2284, the K-12 funding bill, has passed both chambers WITH $6M in funding for school meals! pic.twitter.com/ihU8hjAOvX
— North Dakota AFL-CIO (@NDAFLCIO) April 28, 2023Ohio AFL-CIO:
Melissa cropper, President of @OFTadvocate & Secretary Treasurer of #Ohio @AFLCIO gives testimony opposing #SJR2, saying “as #union members we take the idea of majority rule to heart. It’s part of everything we do as a democratic organization. One person, one vote” #NoOnSJR2 pic.twitter.com/d7mc76TeDq
— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) May 2, 2023Oregon AFL-CIO:
Today is Workers Memorial Day - a day to honor workers who died on the job in 2022 and a time to recommit ourselves to making work safe for all working people. Central to those efforts in Oregon is the passage of Senate Bill 592. #ORleg #ORpol https://t.co/RI0d2Ii3F9
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) April 28, 2023Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:
President Ferritto joined @AlleghenyLabor President @Darrinkellypgh today to take part in their #WorkersMemorialDay service.
We will continue to organize & fight for the fundamental right of every worker to a safe job. #1u #UnionStrong #PAAFLCIO #AFLCIO #UnionStrong https://t.co/Rs7A8UKf7c
Texas AFL-CIO:
NOW at the Capitol.
Texas trans kids deserve better. We stand in solidarity with our trans siblings in the fight for equality for ALL, and against SB 14.#txlege pic.twitter.com/zWemHl1biz
Virginia AFL-CIO:
It’s only fitting that on #InternationalWorkersDay that we announce our endorsement of 3 mighty labor leaders @guzman4virginia @destinyforva @JeionWard . We are proud of the work they’ve done for working families and excited to have them continue it. #1u pic.twitter.com/VQhZ0rxXOy
— Virginia AFL-CIO (@Virginia_AFLCIO) May 1, 2023Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:
Our own Cherika Carter delivered a solemn, heartfelt call to action for workplace safety at the @LNIwa Workers Memorial Day commemoration. #1u #WorkersMemorialDay @AFLCIO https://t.co/K57aebrzqm
— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) April 28, 2023 Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 05/02/2023 - 14:29Service & Solidarity Spotlight: 29,000 Machinists Union Members at United Airlines Ratify Industry-Leading Labor Agreements
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Approximately 29,000 United Airlines workers, members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), have ratified labor agreements with the industry’s best wages and stronger job protections. Members ratified five contracts covering fleet service, passenger service, storekeeper, maintenance instructors, and fleet technical instructors and related, and maintenance instructors. 118 members in the security guard and central load planners classifications have not ratified their contracts. IAM will continue to work on next steps for these members.
Highlights of the ratified contracts include industry-best wage rates; the insourcing of five previously outsourced locations; protection of full-time employment and opportunities; the permanent prohibition of outsourcing for 17 additional U.S. locations; increased lead and specialty premiums; an extended system of no lay-off protection to tens of thousands of more IAM members; an early opener of next negotiations and a signing bonus.
“The IAM has once again set the bar for airline workers across the industry,” said IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen. “We continue to have success reaching agreements that secure our work and turn into airline jobs into family-sustaining careers.”
In Recognition of Caregivers, White House Readies to Help Nursing Home Workers
Last month, President Biden announced comprehensive government actions to improve access to quality child care and long-term care. The executive order, signed by the president, directed an array of federal programs at the departments of Health and Human Services and Veterans Affairs, and other departments to do more to meet the care needs of working families who rely on either paid or unpaid caregivers to participate in our economy and our society.
The president’s announcement, which comes during Care Workers Recognition Month, is a landmark effort to highlight the role of care work in our economy. As the president noted, one in five Americans is a caregiver, helping raise a child or caring for a person with a disability, either at home or in a nursing home.
The attention on caregiving comes naturally for this president. During his remarks at the signing event, he recalled the help he needed raising his sons after his first wife and daughter died in a car crash and the care he and the first lady provided to their parents near the end of their lives. For many people, however, the hardest part is finding a caregiver. We will need millions of new caregivers to meet the needs of our aging society.
How do we get more people to do this physically demanding and often emotionally draining work? Recruitment and retention is challenging because this important work is routinely undercompensated. The median annual income for a certified nurse assistant in a nursing home is $24,200—so low that one-third are on some public assistance. The median annual income for a home care worker is even less.
One way to ensure caregivers are paid more is to make it easier for workers who want to join a union. We know labor law is fundamentally broken—it is simply too hard for workers to exercise our right to collective action. To support the needs of America's families and our economy, we need to make sure caregivers have a voice at work.
When it comes to nursing homes, there is an immediate opportunity to address the quality of care for residents. The Biden administration can follow through on its promise to do what previous administrations lacked the political courage to do: set a science-based, national minimum staffing standard for nursing homes that participate in Medicare and Medicaid.
We know that powerful forces in the nursing home industry, including private equity investors, vigorously oppose a minimum staffing standard. Private equity investors often turn a profit by manipulating personnel: hiring fewer workers and slashing pay and benefits at the cost of patient care. Setting a staffing standard would mean having to pay higher wages to attract more people to the industry; it would mean paying a living wage, so working in a nursing home would be a sustainable, family-supporting job.
Nursing home experts across the board agree that current staffing at most nursing homes is inadequate, and that poor staffing puts residents at risk for ulcers, falls, and other adverse medical events. One has to look no further than Health and Human Services' findings in 2001 for the bare minimum staffing levels needed to avoid harming patients. Yet too many nursing operators want to compromise this medically based standard of care. We are glad to work with the industry to address issues around implementation of a staffing standard, but there should be no doubt about what experts say is the best way to improve nursing home care: stop the understaffing that compromises resident care and makes caregivers pursue other work.
The AFL-CIO commends the administration for its focus on the care economy. Making sure current federal programs are more accessible is critical for families who need care and caregivers who want to do the work. However, it is time to do more than re-direct existing resources. We need to invest new resources and set new standards for good care and workplace conditions in businesses where care is provided. This year, we can start with nursing homes and address similar policy and fiscal questions around home care and the child care workforce. Our kids, grandparents, friends and family members with disabilities deserve no less.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 05/01/2023 - 10:00Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Julie Su Nomination Advances; Show Your Support
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
This week, the Biden administration’s nominee for secretary of labor, Julie Su (pictured, top row, third from right), advanced out of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions. The nomination will next be considered by the full Senate.
Su is a champion for working people who will take on the toughest fights we have on issues like wage theft, the future of work, worker exploitation and so much more. She must be confirmed.
Check out our toolkit and show your support today by signing our petition to stand with Julie Su.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 05/01/2023 - 08:35Service & Solidarity Spotlight: WGAE Members at BDG Win First Contract
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
After more than two years of negotiations, Writers Guild of America, East (WGAE), members at BDG (Bustle Digital Group) reached a tentative agreement with management on a first union contract. Members will vote shortly to ratify the contract, at which time details will be made public.
In a statement, the BDG Union said: “We are elated to announce that we have a deal! Our first union contract could not have been achieved without an incredible amount of solidarity and fortitude by our current bargaining unit. We also owe a deep amount of gratitude to the many workers who have either left or been let go at BDG who fiercely supported this campaign over the more than two years of negotiations. In the contract, we won guaranteed minimum salary increases, strong benefits, and fair severance and protection from layoffs. We look forward to sharing more details upon ratification.”
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 04/27/2023 - 10:44Tags: Organizing
25 Things You Need to Know from the 2023 Death on the Job Report
This 2023 edition of Death on the Job: The Toll of Neglect marks the 32nd year the AFL-CIO has produced a report on the state of safety and health protections for America’s workers. Over the past 50 years, there has been significant progress toward improving working conditions and protecting workers from job injuries, illnesses and deaths. The progress has become more challenging as employers’ opposition to workers’ rights and protections has grown, and attacks on unions have intensified. Big corporations and many Republicans have launched an aggressive assault on worker protections.
Here are 25 things from the 2023 Death on the Job report you need to know:
- There were 343 workers who died each day from hazardous working conditions.
- There were 5,190 workers who were killed on the job in the United States in 2021.
- An estimated 120,000 workers died from occupational diseases.
- The job fatality rate increased to 3.6 per 100,000 workers.
- Black workers died on the job at the highest rate in more than a decade.
- Latino workers continue to be at greater risk of dying on the job than all workers.
- Employers reported nearly 3.2 million work-related injuries and illnesses.
- The true impact of COVID-19 infections due to workplace exposures is unknown.
- Limited data show that more than 1.5 million nursing home workers have been infected with COVID-19 and more than 3,000 have died.
- Workplace violence, musculoskeletal disorders from repetitive motion injuries and occupational heat illness continue to be major problems, but data no longer is reported annually to track and understand these important issues.
- Underreporting is widespread—the true toll of work-related injuries and illnesses is 5.4 million to 8.1 million each year in private industry.
- The cost of job injuries and illnesses is enormous—estimated at $174 billion to $348 billion a year.
- States with the highest fatality rates in 2021 were Wyoming, North Dakota, Montana, Louisiana, Alaska and New Mexico.
- Industries with the highest fatality rates in 2021 were agriculture, forestry, and fishing and hunting; transportation and warehousing; mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction; construction; and wholesale trade.
- More than one-third of workplace fatalities occurred among workers ages 55 and older.
- Workers 65 and older have 2.3 times the risk of dying on the job as other workers, with a job fatality rate of 8.4 per 100,000 workers.
- Many children, mostly migrants, have become the focus of stark exploitation, working in dangerous conditions.
- Twenty-four children younger than 18 and 350 adults younger than 25 years old died on the job in 2021.
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) resources in fiscal year (FY) 2022 still are too few to be a deterrent: There are 1,871 inspectors to inspect the 10.8 million workplaces under the Occupational Safety and Health Act’s (OSH Act's) jurisdiction.
- Federal OSHA has 145 additional inspectors than in FY 2021—but still only enough to inspect workplaces once every 190 years.
- There is one inspector for every 77,334 workers.
- The current OSHA budget amounts to $3.99 to protect each worker.
- Penalties in FY 2022 still are too weak: The average penalty for a serious violation was $4,354 for federal OSHA. The average penalty for a serious violation was $2,221 for OSHA state plans.
- The median penalty for killing a worker was $12,063 for federal OSHA. The median penalty for killing a worker was $7,000 for state OSHA plans.
- Only 128 worker death cases have been criminally prosecuted under the OSH Act since 1970.
The report also provides suggested policies to address these problems. Read the full report.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 04/26/2023 - 10:34Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Our Veterans’ Sacrifices Are Under Attack
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
The veterans community was devastated last week when House Republicans proposed legislation that would cut 22% from the Veterans Affairs budget, setting back improvements and care that has been fought for in recent decades. The cuts would essentially gut veterans care.
In recent years, veterans have seen improvements in health care, including better access to medical visits and shorter wait times. The new proposal would roll back those gains, leading to 30 million fewer veteran outpatient visits, 81,000 lost jobs at the Veterans Affairs. Veterans won't be able to get appointments for care, wellness visits, cancer screenings, mental health services and substance use disorder treatment. The plan also cuts funding to military cemeteries, meaning 18,000 eligible veterans would lose the ability to be buried with full military honors. The lower budget would prevent construction on health care facilities veterans need, cut housing for veterans, increase food insecurity for veterans, and eliminate job training and other support to homeless veterans.
This proposal fails to honor the memory of all veterans, but veterans are ready to fight for their benefits. The Union Veterans Council, AFL-CIO, is calling on all of our affiliates and allies to lift up the message of #HandsOffVeteranBenefits.
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: AFSCME’s Saunders: Now More Than Ever, Library Workers Must Have a Seat at the Table
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
AFSCME President Lee Saunders released the following statement recognizing National Library Week, which runs from April 23-29, 2023:
“Whether they’re introducing us to our next favorite book or teaching new skills like how to code or start a business, library workers are the backbone of our communities. So much of the important work they do is behind the scenes—from managing online collections to archiving our history to building bookshelves and maintaining libraries’ physical space.
“While these workers have ensured the library is a welcoming space for all, they deal with tremendous challenges. When the opioid epidemic spiked, library workers learned how to use Narcan so they could save lives. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, many libraries stayed open to ensure that people were able to access the vital services they provide. Now, these front-line heroes are facing both budget cuts and censorship threats that hurt their ability to protect their communities and preserve our freedoms. If that’s not enough, widespread staffing shortages are making library workers’ jobs harder than ever.
“This National Library Week, we must respond to this moment by continuing to organize for respect and dignity. With a seat at the table, union library workers have the power in numbers they need to negotiate for improvements that benefit themselves and their communities. For many Americans, the library is one of the only places where they can seek refuge and find help, and they’re counting on us to keep library doors open.”
Bad for 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.
Majorities of Adults See Decline of Union Membership as Bad for the U.S. and Working People: “Majorities of Americans continue to see the long-term decline in the share of workers represented by unions as a bad thing for both the country and working people in the United States, according to a Pew Research Center survey conducted from March 27 to April 2.”
The Economy Alone Can’t Fix the Racial Divide in Labor: “The Black unemployment rate fell to 5% in March, the lowest since the U.S. government began collecting the data in 1972. Also, its ratio to the White unemployment rate is one of the smallest on record. That’s progress and another sign that a strong labor market is helping people on the margins. Progress on racial equity, however, must not be left to the ups and downs in the economy alone. Lasting changes in policies and workplaces are necessary, too, and they may need to differ some across groups of workers. The Black-White gap in men’s participation has essentially closed, so why does a sizable unemployment divide remain? The answer is complex. William Spriggs, a professor at Howard University and chief economist for the AFL-CIO, says we should be wary of simple explanations like fewer Black men go to college. In fact, Black men with an associate’s degree have a higher unemployment rate than White men with only a high school education, except in a strong labor market. More than personal characteristics affect the employment gap. Raj Chetty, a professor at Harvard University, and his co-authors found that growing up in poorer neighborhoods—as Black men are likely to do—reduced upward economic mobility of Black men relative to White men.”
New Report Highlights Challenges Still Faced by America’s Working Women: “‘We were thrilled to work with IWPR to help produce this critical report. It reaffirms that women can and must play an important role in revitalizing America’s manufacturing sector,’ said AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler. ‘These findings provide us with an invaluable blueprint to ensure that women have equal access to these careers and the resources we all need to succeed, including far better child care and paid leave policies.’ ‘It also underscores how essential it is that these are good union jobs,’ said Shuler. ‘That union women were far more likely to report being treated equally at work in terms of pay, benefits and scheduling is noteworthy. Unions help women to thrive and create environments where we can use our collective voice to transform our workplaces. Recruiting and supporting women is essential for guaranteeing that our nation re-enters the world stage as a powerhouse for manufacturing, innovation and technology.’”
Let's Go, Julie Su: 'Modern-Day Frances Perkins' Tapped to Lead U.S. Dept. of Labor: “‘If you’ve been paying attention the past 18 months, you know workers across America are having a moment,’ writes Liz Shuler, president of the AFL-CIO. ‘Julie Su will help workers at the highest levels of power, too—the same way 90 years ago, the country’s first female labor secretary, Francis Perkins, did pioneering work under Franklin Delano Roosevelt to define the New Deal.’”
Saunders: AFSCME Working Its Way Back from COVID’s Impact: “The State, County and Municipal Employees union is working its way back from the huge cuts in local and state jobs the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic imposed, union President Lee Saunders says. And, he adds, the governors, mayors and county officials he regularly talks with and works with desperately seek workers to fill thousands of vacancies. If they find them, that could benefit AFSCME. Saunders reviewed that state of his union, which now has 1.4 million members, in an informal walk-and-talk with several reporters at a small reception on the top, private floor of a D.C. bar. He explained that when the five-justice Republican-named majority ruled in the Janus case that every single state and local worker in the country could become a ‘free rider,’ commentators expected AFSCME and other public worker unions to take a big hit or worse. The right-wing foes of unions, of course, rooted for a collapse in worker power. It didn’t happen. If anything, at least in the private sector, union numbers are growing as workers used newfound strength to fight back against exploitation by unionizing, leaving for better jobs, or both. Saunders said AFSCME weathered Janus because the union prepared in advance, going to a million members on a nationwide listening tour. It used responses to adjust its goals and tactics.”
Actors' Equity Members and League of Resident Theatres Ratify New Agreement: “Actors' Equity Association and the League of Resident Theatres have ratified a new four-and-a-half-year agreement. Key provisions of the contract include meaningful salary increases and growth in all three job categories: chorus, principals and stage managers. The new agreement also widens equity, diversity and inclusion protections, including regarding hair styling and costuming, and expands protection surrounding bullying, discrimination and harassment. The contract also expands flexibility in media and community outreach, enabling theatres to rebuild and grow audiences. The contract also creates additional opportunities for the development of new artistic work at LORT houses.”
Unemployment Is Low. Inflation Is Falling. But What Comes Next?: “‘For this tiny moment, we finally see what a labor market is supposed to do,” said William Spriggs, a Howard University professor and chief economist for the AFL-CIO And the workers benefiting most from the labor market’s current strength, he said, will be the ones who suffer most from a recession. ‘You should see from this moment what you are truly risking,’ Spriggs said. With inflation already falling, he said, there is no reason for policymakers to take that risk. ‘The labor market is finally hitting its stride,’ he said. ‘And instead of celebrating and saying, This is fantastic, we have the Fed hanging over everybody and casting shade on this unbelievable set of circumstances and saying, Actually this is bad.’”
Rutgers University Strike Suspended After Tentative Deal Reached: “The historic strike at Rutgers University is reportedly over as a tentative deal clears the way for thousands of teachers and students to go back to work and back to class. Just after midnight Saturday morning, a tentative agreement was reached after a historic five-day strike at New Jersey's state university. Class will be back in session for the school's 67,000 students starting Monday.”
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 04/24/2023 - 07:53Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Help Win Fair Wages for Union Members at CBS News Streaming
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Writers Guild of America, East, members at CBS News Streaming are currently in negotiations with CBS for a renewed contract. Determined to get a fair deal, these workers are facing a challenge in securing fair wages, and they need your help.
The workers at CBS News Streaming deserve a fair contract that reflects industry standards and the rising cost of living. CBS management is still holding out on items important to the CBS News Streaming Union, including salary minimums in line with current salaries and fair wage increases.
Now is a critical time in their campaign. Please join their fight by sending a letter to CBS management today, demanding they agree to a fair contract with fair wages.
Send a letter to CBS management now.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 04/24/2023 - 07:39WATCH: Julie Su’s First Hearing
Julie Su just overcame her first big hurdle on the road to becoming our next secretary of labor, and workers are standing behind her. We thought you’d be interested to hear how it went.
Here are some of our highlights:
Julie Su's story is a firsthand account of what so many across the globe endure in search for a better life.
We want a Secretary of Labor who can look working families in the eye & honestly say "I understand” over a shell for corporate America.#StandWithSu pic.twitter.com/UEzTrblNHP
With Julie Su as Deputy Secretary of Labor, the @USDOL has RAPIDLY expanded apprenticeship opportunities for all Americans, from the trades to cybersecurity to teacher apprenticeships.
These life-changing opportunities must continue & another reason why we #StandWithSu! pic.twitter.com/LeXV5CN1xn
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The results with having a pro-worker @USDOL Secretary of Labor speak for themselves: Our U.S. economy has added a record 12.6 million jobs, unemployment is less than 4 percent. All while labor force participation has returned to pre-pandemic levels. #StandWithSu! pic.twitter.com/lZcqqzYsQH
— AFL-CIO ✊ (@AFLCIO) April 20, 2023Workers deserve a labor secretary who will fiercely defend working people. Join more than 10,000 union members and sign our petition to #StandWithSu.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 04/21/2023 - 14:12Service & Solidarity Spotlight: BCTGM Files Charges Against Aspire Bakeries for Flagrant Labor Violations
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
BCTGM Local 37 (Los Angeles), has filed federal charges against Aspire Bakeries, for multiple labor law violations committed during an organizing campaign at the company’s Ontario, California bakery. Aspire Bakeries produces Otis Spunkmeyer, La Brea Bakery and Oakrun Farm Bakery brands, and is owned by the private-equity firm Lindsay-Goldberg.
Not long after workers at the California bakery approached Local 37 organizers, the company hired a high-priced union busting firm to put a stop to the employees’ efforts. According to BCTGM Organizing Director John Price, the company’s union busters committed numerous offenses including spying on union activities, harassment and intimidation of union supporters. “These are clear and outrageous violations of federal labor law. Employees were denied their legal right to join the BCTGM because of the company’s blatant disregard of federal law,” Price said.
BCTGM called on Lindsay-Goldberg to put a stop to Aspire’s use of union busters, but Lindsay-Goldberg executives refused to meet or speak with the union.
“Lindsay Goldberg management refused to talk to us, despite the fact their Aspire Bakeries subsidiary was knowingly violating federal laws and denying their workers the protected right to a free election,” said BCTGM International President Anthony Shelton. “Private equity companies like Lindsay Goldberg are used to hiding behind their portfolio companies and acting with impunity. Those days are over. Lindsay Goldberg owns Aspire Bakeries and is responsible for Aspire’s anti-worker actions.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 04/20/2023 - 10:17Welcome to the Union Family: 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:
Every Wednesday we send our update to the Equity membership on everything happening across the union. Subscribe to Equity Weekly today to stay in the loop - https://t.co/oa33DA67Ra pic.twitter.com/LqSUDbfKgg
— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) April 18, 2023AFGE:
Our TSA officers fought hard to finally get their much-deserved pay increase. Now, they'll get a pay cut if Congress doesn't get their act together. This isn't right! https://t.co/UA1s725V3q
— AFGE (@AFGENational) April 19, 2023AFSCME:
Union members in Chicago worked hard to persuade the city council to pass an ordinance that supports workers’ right to organize. https://t.co/z9KdkRokpF
— AFSCME (@AFSCME) April 18, 2023Alliance for Retired Americans:
Thanks to you for your hard work to strengthen retirement security for older Coloradans ! https://t.co/kmufdNdTOm
— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) April 19, 2023Amalgamated Transit Union:
Our Union is leading the way with opening bargaining to involve our members in negotiations to win strong contracts. #ATUStrongerTogether #openbargaining https://t.co/5OUMpcNVHd
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) April 19, 2023American Federation of Teachers:
.@civilrightsorg is shining a light on an important vote in the House of Representativeshttps://t.co/y4K5qYifWR
— AFT (@AFTunion) April 19, 2023American Postal Workers Union:
Good morning postal workers everywhere. #APWUnited #1u pic.twitter.com/VHmeSgRAg7
— The American Postal Workers Union - APWU (@APWUnational) April 19, 2023Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance:
If the wealthy & large corporations pay their fair share in taxes, there will be more than enough $$$ to support public investments like high-quality & affordable child care, paid leave for all, & expanded aging + disability care, which all families need & deserve! #TaxDay2023 pic.twitter.com/32tqCztDjq
— Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance, AFL-CIO (@APALAnational) April 18, 2023Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:
TAKE ACTION: Today, we’re joining @CWAUnion Passenger Service Agents & other aviation unions to call on Congress & urge them to cosponsor the Protection from Disruptive Passengers Act.
📱House: (202) 952-9215
📱Senate: (202) 335-8715
More info + scripthttps://t.co/05uwYD8enX pic.twitter.com/uPT4M390t5
Boilermakers:
#Boilermakers from the Southeast recruited at the Tennessee SkillsUSA competition April 17 and 18 ⚒️ Manning the booth are l. to r. Jeff Hughes, Danny Watson and Monte Causey.#BoilermakersUnion #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/URf8oLAJ7P
— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) April 19, 2023Bricklayers:
Congratulations, Elite Floor Systems Inc. Welcome to the BAC family! pic.twitter.com/wvFXofLolw
— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) April 18, 2023Coalition of Labor Union Women:
WEDNESDAY: #Equity in Focus Report Release. Job creation for a just society. (via @cornellilr) https://t.co/bKebP1qVp0
— CLUW National (@CLUWNational) April 18, 2023Communications Workers of America:
AT&T In Home Expert (IHX) workers in Ponce, Puerto Rico, voted to join CWA + more news in this week's CWA organizing update! https://t.co/K4BUS9mIFZ
— CWA (@CWAUnion) April 15, 2023Department for Professional Employees:
We applaud @VernBuchanan and @RepJudyChu for reintroducing the Performing Artist Tax Parity Act. This important bipartisan legislation will restore tax fairness for entertainment professionals. #taxfairness4entertainmentworkers https://t.co/FYjULV3rnu pic.twitter.com/L6Fv6ZucbZ
— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) April 19, 2023Electrical Workers:
In September, the IBEW welcomed Cedar Rapids, IA, #IBEW Local 1974 as one of the union’s newest chartered locals, representing hundreds of workers making mission-critical military and GPS products equipment. Here's its story. https://t.co/FzugzlSzD1
— IBEW (@IBEW) April 19, 2023Farm Labor Organizing Committee:
BAT made $34,206 billion in 2022 & yet our joint study with Oxfam 1/4 workers in NCs tobacco field were paid less than the federally mandated minimum wage & the vast majority did not make a living wage or enough to meet their basic needs #ToxicReynolds #BATDoSomething pic.twitter.com/STLvkWMVNv
— Farm Labor Organizing Committee (@SupportFLOC) April 14, 2023Heat and Frost Insulators:
Congratulations to all the apprentices who competed in the Central States Apprentice Competition that was recently held in Canton, Ohio. Local 45 Toledo apprentice Andrew Zagorsky won the contest and will represent his conference this summer in Houston. pic.twitter.com/WDuk2W18V7
— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) April 19, 2023International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers:
IFPTE has enthusiastically endorsed Julie Su for Labor Secretary! Sign the petition here and #StandWithSu!https://t.co/YSEwhMIndC
— IFPTE (@IFPTE) April 17, 2023International Labor Communications Association:
This week we’re spotlighting @PeoplesWorld for #MemberMonday! People’s World is a voice for progressive change and socialism in the United States. It provides news and analysis of, by, and for the labor and democratic movements to readers across the country and around the world. pic.twitter.com/KAmfh2RmIw
— International Labor Communications Association (@ILCAonline) April 17, 2023Ironworkers:
Are you an Ironworker who has benefited from our maternity provision policy?
WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! #ironworkers #unionironworkers #ironworkerwomen pic.twitter.com/ML7DmO3azD
Jobs With Justice:
#TaxDay is a reminder that while working
families pay their fair share in taxes every year, with
every paycheck, many billionaires and corporations are getting away with paying lower tax rates, and some
years paying nothing at all.#TaxTheRich #TaxBillionaires #TaxDay2023 pic.twitter.com/1bvlVSC1d6
Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:
Anti-Latino and anti-immigrant rhetoric has contributed to devastating violence. The 2021 FBI data showed the highest number of anti-Hispanic hate crimes ever reported — a 35% increase from 2020. Read @civilrightsorg's report to learn more: https://t.co/hjH2hYGr98
— LCLAA (@LCLAA) April 19, 2023Laborers:
Today is GO ORANGE DAY! Wear orange to proudly show your support of #workzonesafety. Show your support on social media by posting your orange pics and use the hashtags #NWZAW #Orange4Safety. pic.twitter.com/XmOybHZpqI
— LIUNA (@LIUNA) April 19, 2023Machinists:
.@maine_union's Virginia Olsen testified at a hearing held by @NatResources opposing legislation that would impose meritless measures regarding endangered right whales while undermining Maine lobstering industry and entire communities.
Read more here: https://t.co/9zF5k4oBAD pic.twitter.com/FXJ8fzHnJI
Maritime Trades Department:
Have you subscribed yet for email updates on the new MTD website? If not, today's a great day to get started.https://t.co/lx0dZSD909
— Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO (@Maritime_Trades) April 13, 2023Metal Trades Department:
📣EQUAL PAY FOR EQUAL WORK!!!!https://t.co/VMhHmGNKwq
— Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) April 19, 2023Mine Workers:
"The Constitution of the United States protects American citizens' rights to stand on the side of a road and call a scab a scab" - UMWA International President Cecil E. Roberts
C.E.R. Quote Shirts are available for sale at our UMWA Store!https://t.co/wQSms44aam pic.twitter.com/c6jAYAHCjZ
Musical Artists:
[Part 1!] A Video Message regarding the ongoing labor dispute w/ Central City Opera from National Executive Director Sam Wheeler. (Via Instagram).https://t.co/Sd3mvLRFGk
— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) April 18, 2023National Air Traffic Controllers Association:
NATCA leaders from all over the country gathered with longtime lead instructor Scott Airitam, from Leadership Systems, in Glen Rose, Texas, for the Leadership Experience Acceleration Project (LEAP) class in March.https://t.co/XU65y9Re69 pic.twitter.com/q6Wv9MF8ah
— NATCA (@NATCA) April 19, 2023National Association of Letter Carriers:
Letter carriers are often on the front lines when it comes to detecting mail fraud involving customers. That's why we're honoring Harrisburg, PA Branch 500 member Chris Lippy as our 2023 Carrier Alert Hero for the actions he took to notify his customers of suspicious activity. pic.twitter.com/CrpKRV3CSI
— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) April 19, 2023National Day Laborer Organizing Network:
LAST WEEK, amidst anti-immigrant attacks from DeSantis, our members in FL held forums for migrant workers on how they can be eligible for protections by denouncing workplace abuse! #DALE @IncEsperanza @WeCount_Fl
Read our latest statement below ⬇️https://t.co/KpuzvLdWtP
National Domestic Workers Alliance:
And that’s a wrap in day 1 of the #CareWorkersCantWait Summit!
Thank you so much to @SenSanders and @SenBobCasey for taking the time to listen to the stories of care workers, and committing to fighting alongside us! pic.twitter.com/8Ctf20gkPV
National Federation of Federal Employees:
The USDA has issued FAQs created to provide answers about President Biden’s FY 2024 budget as it relates to crucial reforms to invest in and support our federal wildland firefighters. Read the full FAQs:https://t.co/MdMYTEc6jO pic.twitter.com/N6Fy6Gu4lu
— NFFE (@NFFE_Union) April 17, 2023National Nurses United:
#WorkplaceViolence makes health care the most dangerous field of work.
Thank you, @SenatorBaldwin & @RepJoeCourtney for introducing the Workplace Violence Prevention for Health Care and Social Service Workers Act to #ProtectNurses! https://t.co/vkFnkBvpRE
NWSL Players Association:
✊🏼✊🏽✊🏾#union https://t.co/dqv6z1PJbI
— NWSLPA (@nwsl_players) April 14, 2023NFL Players Association:
Our hearts are with the family of Chris Smith.
Rest in Peace Chris 🙏 pic.twitter.com/3JZvVE9wXk
North America's Building Trades Unions:
“Construction in MA is booming, and with an influx of federal money flowing into the state comes numerous career opportunities in the building trades.”
Read this op-ed on why a #BuildingTrades career is a great opportunity, no matter your race or gender.https://t.co/Vtw7Aia6wI
Office and Professional Employees:
OPEIU 153 members @PSEGDemocracy holding the line with #RUonStrike!!!
SOLIDARITY with higher education workers across the nation fighting for their rights to livable wages!! pic.twitter.com/bw6NmOICSS
Painters and Allied Trades:
The Prince George’s County Council in Maryland has an opportunity in the next month to make sure that going forward our schools have Project Labor Agreements.
We can and will win Project Labor Agreements for Prince George's County Schools! pic.twitter.com/0FYZokY2dq
Plasterers and Cement Masons:
Cutting @USDOL hurts our members and all American workers!https://t.co/OUjzGFBTTf
— OPCMIA International (@opcmiaintl) April 18, 2023Pride At Work:
Help keep your union siblings safe!@LIUNA #WorkingForYou#GiveUsaBrake#WorkZone#Orange4Safety https://t.co/vSs85aVkE8
— Pride at Work (@PrideatWork) April 19, 2023Professional Aviation Safety Specialists:
On a beautiful morning in Oklahoma City 28 yrs ago, public servants began their work day at Murrah Fed Bldg. A bomb blast minutes later killed 168 people, including 108 federal workers; 11 from @USDOT. Honor their memory & service to the nation. @OKCNM @NPSOklahoma #publicservice pic.twitter.com/cpjUmf0mWC
— PASS (@PASSNational) April 19, 2023Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:
#tbt to a beautiful moment of inter-union solidarity at last year’s @RWDSU convention 🔥 @SBWorkersUnited @BAmazonUnion @reiunionsoho @hworksunion pic.twitter.com/5ciVTGXpiN
— RWDSU (@RWDSU) April 13, 2023Roofers and Waterproofers:
Become an effective safety leader! Learn how at: https://t.co/UCxEeiltka #roofersafety365
— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) April 17, 2023SAG-AFTRA:
Everything you need to know as a #sagaftramember, all in one place. Check out the Member Toolkit: https://t.co/eq25xmeXpB. pic.twitter.com/XnUyGZYBm2
— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) April 13, 2023Solidarity Center:
Aviation workers in #Nigeria have blocked roads to the domestic terminal of Lagos airport as part of a two-day #strike to protest working conditions and wages.https://t.co/KpJsAMCJZK
— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) April 19, 2023The NewsGuild-CWA:
Welcome @PESPstaff to @newsguild and @CWAUnion !!! ✊ https://t.co/FLASwEUUsR
— NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) April 19, 2023Transport Workers Union:
“Many of our union brothers & sisters died, many more fell sick and survived. My message to the MTA: Don’t try and nickel and dime us. Don’t try and balance the budget on our backs. Don’t dare suggest that we somehow owe a debt. We paid more than our fair share…” Pres. Davis https://t.co/7T78eWb1ij
— TWU Local 100 (@TWULocal100) April 17, 2023Transportation Trades Department:
👀 Wall Street Journal, check on your Editorial Board. We fixed this for you. pic.twitter.com/hEk0AecHR2
— TTD | America's Transportation Unions (@TTDAFLCIO) April 17, 2023UAW:
Solidarity! https://t.co/aYlUAZcT2w
— UAW (@UAW) April 18, 2023Union Label and Service Trades Department:
Hundreds of union members volunteer to repair South Bend homes. IBEW Local 153, Sheet Metal Local 20, Plumbers Local 172, and Roofers Local 23 participated in the Rebuilding Together skilled trades day. https://t.co/77nyuRJCCl
— Union Label Dept. (@ULSTD_AFLCIO) April 17, 2023Union Veterans Council:
There is nothing more patriotic than standing up and fighting together for your fellow worker!
This is what pulling yourself up from the bootstraps looks like in real life, but for Unions, we pull each other up together🇺🇸#1u https://t.co/EAN4zRaHOL
UNITE HERE:
MAJOR NEWS:
Workers at @Vikredistillery have announced their intent to Unionize with MN's Craft Beverage Union UNITE HERE Local 17!
The MN Craft Beverage Unionization wave has arrived to Duluth!! pic.twitter.com/T4IetZ2fZW
United Association of Union Plumbers and Pipefitters:
United Food and Commercial Workers:
Congratulations to the 45 baristas from 4 La Colombe Coffee Roasters stores who recently joined UFCW Local 881. The workers are looking to improve staffing, scheduling & other day-to-day operations in their store.
Welcome to the union family! Learn more: https://t.co/zLbIXo0Yt6 pic.twitter.com/FJse4Ah8io
United Steelworkers:
Right on! #EverybodysUnion #1u https://t.co/vvDmTajY7h
— United Steelworkers #EverybodysUnion (@steelworkers) April 19, 2023Utility Workers:
Union workers have the training to make sure the job is done right. We take pride in our work and in each other. #unionstrong #unionproud #solidarity pic.twitter.com/n16WK4sHLQ
— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) April 19, 2023Writers Guild of America, East:
“This is an investment in our future and the viability of our industry.” - @ItsTinGin sends a message to fellow writers about the importance of this negotiation cycle #WGAStrong pic.twitter.com/HSw4iSc0Kx
— Writers Guild of America West (@WGAWest) April 18, 2023 Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 04/19/2023 - 13:58Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Actors' Equity Members and League of Resident Theatres Ratify New Agreement
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Actors’ Equity Association, the national union representing more than 51,000 professional actors and stage managers in live theatre, and the League of Resident Theatres (LORT), the largest professional theatre association of its kind in the United States, have ratified a new four-and-a-half-year agreement.
“This agreement demonstrates that despite the hardships of the pandemic, we can build a stronger theatre industry for the workers,” said Equity Assistant Executive Director Andrea Hoeschen, who served as lead negotiator for the union on this agreement. “We are grateful to LORT for working with us to create an agreement that increases wages and job opportunities as well as expanding worker protections. We are optimistic that this agreement will also afford LORT opportunities to recover from the pandemic and expand their audiences moving forward.”
The contract includes meaningful salary increases and growth in all three job categories: chorus, principals and stage managers. It also widens equity, diversity and inclusion protections, including regarding hair styling and costuming, and expands protections against bullying, discrimination and harassment. It also expands flexibility in media and community outreach, enabling theatres to rebuild and grow audiences, and it creates additional opportunities for the development of new artistic work at LORT houses.
Dignity, Safety and Fair Pay for All Workers: 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 Twitter.
Alaska AFL-CIO:
We LOVE seeing our affiliates being highlighted by their international😍 https://t.co/Xm0luyEovS
— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) April 17, 2023Arizona AFL-CIO:
🙌Exciting news that teachers at #BASISTucsonNorth have voted to unionize! This is a huge step towards ensuring better working conditions and fair treatment for our dedicated teachers #AFT #1u #unionstrong https://t.co/8I0kVUg5YU
— Arizona AFL-CIO (@ArizonaAFLCIO) April 13, 2023California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:
CA's own Julie Su stands up for dignity, safety & fair pay for all working families. The Senate must confirm her as @USDOL Secretary of Labor. JOIN US and #StandWithSu ⤵️ https://t.co/u79pxEwlan
— California Labor Federation (@CaliforniaLabor) April 18, 2023Colorado AFL-CIO:
https://t.co/YfqrNKeLfT#copolitics #coleg
— Colorado AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOCO) April 4, 2023Connecticut AFL-CIO:
The only thing separating highway workers from oncoming traffic is a few orange cones. Put down the phone and slow down. #ObeyTheOrange #NWZAW @CEUI_SEIU_511 https://t.co/DxuQiKCuAw
— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) April 18, 2023Georgia State AFL-CIO:
All #happy #smiles ... the #golfcourse awaits. See you there my friends. ❤️#1u #unionstrong #unionproud #unionsforall #friends pic.twitter.com/Fr4ErzC3Iq
— Georgia AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOGeorgia) April 18, 2023Illinois AFL-CIO:
We are partnering with @robertjpeters and @Repevans33 to transform Illinois from 'Rust Belt to Green Belt.'
Full story here:https://t.co/Ru5X0xpy6k
Indiana State AFL-CIO:
🚨 The Indiana House convenes this afternoon at 1:30pm for the final hearing of SB 486 - the union busting "Silence our Voices" bill - repealing mandatory discussions for the union. Call the House switchboard and leave a message 317-232-9600 saying to vote NO.@AFTIndiana
— Indiana AFL-CIO (@INAFLCIO) April 17, 2023Iowa Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO:
https://t.co/ltucVBZ0Oi: Families Can’t Afford Nunn’s Crooked Deal https://t.co/4NM1Illqe4
— Iowa AFL-CIO (@IowaAFLCIO) April 18, 2023Maine AFL-CIO:
It's pretty rich that Greg Orff is bragging about giving Cives workers a measly $1 per hr increase a year ago because the company is hemorrhaging workers to BIW. Sorry Greg, that's not gonna cut it.
Treat your workers fairly & negotiate a #FairContractNow! https://t.co/kxc5EJn0wc
Maryland State and D.C. AFL-CIO:
— Maryland State and DC AFL-CIO (@MDDCStateFed) April 17, 2023Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
TOMORROW: Mass General Brigham residents will hold a press conference to formally announce their election for union representation
⏲️Wednesday, 4/19 at 5pm
📍 Corner of Francis and Huntington St., Boston, MA 02114
Learn more here: https://t.co/4f6N8yHQWV
Michigan State AFL-CIO:
Michigan has taken a historic step to restore workers' rights. Our pro-worker legislative majorities repealed Michigan's anti-union "right to work" law, making Michigan the 1st state to do so in 58 years. Thank you @McdonaldRivet for voting to restore workers' rights! pic.twitter.com/eDYi5Nyvma
— Michigan AFL-CIO ✊ (@MIAFLCIO) April 10, 2023Minnesota AFL-CIO:
Proposed statewide paid family and medical leave would be a step forward https://t.co/XoTkNiVim0 Andrew Copplin, owner of Kopplin's Coffee & @mainstreetweets member gets it. #PaidLeaveMN is good for workers and employers. #mnleg @mn4pfl
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) April 17, 2023Missouri AFL-CIO:
#Union locals across the country are calling on the US Senate to confirm Julie Su, whose work and expertise make her the right choice for Secretary of Labor! #1u #StandWithSu pic.twitter.com/4f1jdo9Grc
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) April 17, 2023Montana State AFL-CIO:
Attention Workers:
Not protected by a union? Need to know which labor rights are protected so you can recognize when your employer has gone too far?
Check out our YOUR RIGHTS AT WORK resources here: https://t.co/PfbrbIYvjC
Nevada State AFL-CIO:
Thank you to NAPSO lobbyist and labor leader Rick McCann for speaking about critical legislation that will keep workers in our law enforcement departments safe! #NVLEG #NVAFLCIODAY pic.twitter.com/lCPeyfW8Hm
— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) April 18, 2023New Hampshire AFL-CIO:
Thank you to @PFFNH @johnmac789 for coming to testify in support of House Bill 150, a bill that will help us recruit and retain public safety employees in NH by lowering the number of employees needed to certify a bargaining unit from 10 to 5 #NHPolitics #Solidarity ✊ pic.twitter.com/DUkT7GPcuN
— New Hampshire AFL-CIO (@NHAFLCIO) April 11, 2023New Mexico Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO:
Fighting for New Mexican workers and their families by voting NO on HR1.
✊✊✊ https://t.co/5S4u2eTI8W
New York State AFL-CIO:
Solidarity with our @BCTGM siblings in their fight against Aspire's union busting. #UnionBustingIsDisgusting https://t.co/ABit3ddYgv
— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) April 18, 2023North Dakota AFL-CIO:
"If we have to choose between feeding children and feeding the lawmakers, I propose we feed the children and allow the lawmakers, provided they make arrangements in advance, to eat for free at any public school in North Dakota." -Doug Lynnes, Pisek
https://t.co/JmPsggwnMr
Ohio AFL-CIO:
Let's be clear, these are Republicans rolling back child labor laws. Only one party is wants us back in industrial revolution days where there were little to no protections for workers and children so the rich can get richer and pay off politicians with no moral compass. https://t.co/RvnHZeq6XS
— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) April 18, 2023Oregon AFL-CIO:
Step up and take action today: Painters employed by SPCO in Oregon are being UNDERPAID. Many are having to work ridiculous amounts of overtime or take on side gigs just to make ends meet. Let’s step up and help them #RaiseTheWage, sign the petition today: https://t.co/LaGW0L5eV1 pic.twitter.com/wzPrn8CCBq
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) April 18, 2023Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:
Blair Bedford CLC held its biannual candidate night, where they made endorsements for local offices that are up for re-election in the May 16th primary.
Even garnered the front page of the newspaper! #1u #PowerToThePeople #Vote #Union #UnionStrong #UnionProud #PrimaryElection pic.twitter.com/bvYwDhmoEH
Rhode Island AFL-CIO:
Read this week's E-News--https://t.co/FgOfqV9DRT @IBT251 @RIPAINTERSUNION @LIUNALocal271 @LIUNANewEngland pic.twitter.com/pwSYiLQ9Q1
— Rhode Island AFL-CIO (@riaflcio) April 13, 2023Tennessee AFL-CIO Labor Council:
🚨LEGISLATIVE ALERT! HB 1342/SB 650 has been placed on the House Message Calendar for tomorrow (April 19th). Unless the two chambers can resolve their differences on this bill, we expect that a conference committee will be appointed. Stay tuned for updates! #TNLeg #1u
— Tennessee AFL-CIO (@tnaflcio) April 18, 2023Texas AFL-CIO:
NOW: HB 2127 is up in the #txlege.
HB 2127 will fundamentally change our local communities. It would -immediately- strip workers of critical protections, like rest breaks for construction workers.
It can not be overstated how much we ALL stand to lose if HB 2127 passes. 👇🧵
Virginia AFL-CIO:
The fight for a union is brewing stronger everyday. We stand in solidarity with workers across the state as they fight day and night to unionize for better, fairer, safer & more just livelihoods. https://t.co/tLZ3ZjYSjK
— Virginia AFL-CIO (@Virginia_AFLCIO) April 17, 2023Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:
🚨ACTION ALERT: stand with workers at Fred Meyer organizing with @UFCW367 who are fighting back against egregious union-busting! #1u
🗓 Wednesday, 4/19 @ 2:30pm
📍1201 Valley Road, Sumner WA https://t.co/BD8BwmDyZ0
Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
"After a decade of punitive legislation that was upheld by an imbalanced Supreme Court, we now have reason to believe that the tide is turning and workers’ rights and voting rights can once again be protected in Wisconsin." — Stephanie Bloomingdale, President, Wisconsin AFL-CIO pic.twitter.com/cfDcSB9ecZ
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) April 5, 2023 Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 04/18/2023 - 15:34
