Service + Solidarity Spotlight: NATCA Members in Nevada Help Lay Foundation for Labor 2022 Campaign Victory
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.
Rosa Serai (pictured above, right) and Kyle Johnson (center)—both members of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA)—are making waves in Nevada’s Labor 2022 campaign. As two of the release staff members working directly with the Nevada State AFL-CIO, they have spent the last few weeks revving up the labor movement’s election efforts in the key battleground state. They’re busy recruiting campaign volunteers, writing scripts for phone banks, rallying their fellow union members during worksite visits and so much more.
They also attended the state federation’s recent constitutional convention where they met Nevada’s outstanding pro-labor candidates, including Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto (left). “Kyle and I are proud to say that we were an integral part of the team that set up, organized and assisted throughout the convention,” Serai said. “We were introduced to the convention body as the campaign team and earliest release staff to help Nevada win!”
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 08/29/2022 - 09:48This Women's Equality Day, Pledge to Protect Voting Rights
Today is Women’s Equality Day and we’re celebrating the 19th Amendment. But we still have work to do. Add your name to say you support our freedom to vote and will protect voting rights. Women lead in our unions (including the federation of labor unions, the AFL-CIO), in space and as CEOs of Fortune 500 companies.
Women win elections.
Women’s Equality Day celebrates the achievements of women’s rights activists and reminds us of the daily struggles that women go through.
White women gained the right to vote in 1920 when the 19th Amendment was added to the U.S. Constitution.
But Black women and Latinas still faced voter suppression tactics like literacy tests and poll taxes. Asian, Native American and Alaska Native women weren’t allowed to be citizens and had no right to vote.
Even now, our freedom to vote is under attack in several states. Voter suppression laws are being passed across the country—like limiting early voting and establishing restrictive voter ID regulations.
Add your name and pledge to protect voting rights on Women’s Equality Day.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 08/26/2022 - 16:24Defeating Union-Busters: Worker Wins
Despite the challenges of organizing during a deadly pandemic, working people across the country (and beyond) continue organizing, bargaining and mobilizing for a better life. This edition begins with:
CommutAir Pilots Secure Industry-Leading Pay Increases: Nearly 500 pilots at CommutAir who are members of the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) secured significant improvements in pay and work rules as part of an effort by the regional carrier to attract and retain pilots. Over the course of the next four years, the pilots will earn an additional $52.7 million in hourly rates, plus an additional $57.1 million in retention bonus payments and other improvements. “For years, regional airlines have tried to skimp and save on the most important safety feature on any flight—two highly trained, fully qualified pilots,” Capt. Jeffrey Suttler, ALPA’s master executive council chair at CommutAir, said on Tuesday. “Today’s agreement at CommutAir is an acknowledgement that airlines must offer competitive packages and work rules to attract and retain pilots.”
Maine Med Nurses Overwhelmingly Defeat Union-Busting Attempt: Once again, Maine Medical Center nurses in Portland have voted for a strong union voice on the job. In the decertification election, nurses voted by an even larger majority for their union than they did the first time, in April 2021. Nurses won by a nearly 3-to-1 margin (74% to 26%) to keep their union. Maine Med nurses say they are excited to affirm their union support and get back to the bargaining table. “The National Right to Work Legal Defense Foundation is a right-wing, out-of-state organization that goes around trying to get workers to decertify their unions,” said Mary Kate O’Sullivan, RN and a bargaining team member, explaining some of the forces at play in the election. “They thought because we were a new union, they could manipulate Maine Med nurses and overturn our 2021 election. But we just showed them the door.”
AFM Local 21 Secures New Contract with Delaware Symphony Orchestra: The members of American Federation of Musicians (AFM) Local 21 who perform with the Delaware Symphony Orchestra unanimously ratified a three-year collective bargaining agreement renewal, covering 2022–2025. Local 21 Secretary/Treasurer Glenn Finnan celebrated his union’s wins at the bargaining table. “This ratification is a great reflection of the collaborative relationship that has developed between the musicians and management,” Finnan explained. “The negotiations were positive and productive, and the musicians secured significant improvements in working conditions and compensation that are the best I’ve seen in my time in this position. We are looking forward to three years of great music-making and the understanding that professional musicians are deserving of professional treatment and respect.”
Successful Internal Organizing for TWU Local 263 in Difficult Terrain: In just more than six months, membership of Transport Workers Union (TWU) Local 263 in Ysleta, Texas, has quadrupled in size. The union, which represents bus operators and mechanics in the Ysleta Independent School District, is experiencing growth and optimism under new leadership after the previous local president unexpectedly passed away last year. Under President Ruth Villalobos and a newly sworn-in executive board, the local is aiming to reach 100% union membership—no easy feat in a “right to work” state like Texas, where labor laws are stacked against working people. But the members of Local 263 are revitalizing their union one workplace conversation and one new union member at a time. “Right now, it’s very exciting to see people motivated and wanting to work at this,” Villalobos said. “It’s a blessing to see that people want more.”
Shipyard Painters Seal Victory in Portland, Oregon, Union Election: Painters at the Vigor Swan Island Shipyard in Portland, Oregon, won their union election this month by an overwhelming vote. The crew of 16 workers, who paint commercial vessels for Specialty Finishes, are the newest bargaining unit formed with Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT) Local 10. Painter David Warnieke said this union victory would be a leap forward for the painters. When asked about the benefits of forming a union with Local 10, Warnieke said he and his colleagues were pushing for “a little bit of a wage increase, family medical coverage, which is huge, and having the protection of the union—having an advocate.”
Two Years Later, WAMU Staffers Sign First Contract: Almost two years after unanimously voting to join SAG-AFTRA, content creators at WAMU radio in Washington, D.C., signed their first contract. The three-year agreement with American University includes guaranteed pay raises, merit raises, union representation in management decisions, protection and pay equity for part-timers, and other benefits. The covered members include hosts, reporters, producers, editors and engineers who create content for the station's shows. “We couldn't have done it without our 55 union members, past members, the help and support of SAG-AFTRA, and listeners/allies,” the union said on Twitter. “We are stronger together! The concerted effort to make WAMU a great workplace doesn't end here. But for now, thank you and solidarity.”
Ironworkers at Regal Industrial Midwest Vote Union Yes: “Victory for the workers at Regal Industrial Midwest who won their union election today!,” the Ironworkers declared. The workers at the industrial sandblasting, metalizing and coatings facility in Pekin, Illinois, filed for union representation with the Ironworkers this summer. They overcame interference in the organizing campaign, and the union submitted a complaint to the National Labor Relations Board in July charging management with making coercive statements. “When Ironworkers stand together, they win,” the union said on Twitter.
Members of IAM Beat Back Two-Tiered Wages in New Agreement With Harley-Davidson: Members of Machinists (IAM) Local 175 who make the iconic Harley-Davidson motorcycles overwhelmingly ratified a strong collective bargaining agreement with their employer. The workers at the assembly and operations facility in York, Pennsylvania, were able to remove the two-tier wage system during negotiations. “Our members had concerns over the two-tier wage scale,” said IAM District 98 Assistant Directing Business Representative Kermit Forbes. “Their solidarity paid off, and together the membership won the day, eliminating the two-tier wage system at the end of the agreement.”
Strippers in North Hollywood Organize with Equity: Strippers at a club in North Hollywood, California, are dancing their way into the labor movement by staging an organizing campaign with Actors’ Equity Association (Equity). A majority of dancers employed at the Star Garden Topless Dive Bar filed a petition for a union election with the National Labor Relations Board, citing workplace safety, significant wage theft and a lack of benefits on the job. If they’re successful, they would be the only strippers in the United States to be represented by a union. “We like what we do,” said Velveeta, a Star Garden dancer. “We would like our jobs even more if we had basic worker protections. We’re like so many other workers who have learned that it’s not a choice between suffering abuse or quitting. With a union, together, we can make needed improvements to our workplace.”
Workers Win Union Election at Equitas Health: Some 175 social workers, counselors, therapists, advocates, case managers and other employees who work in Equitas Health offices across Ohio voted to form a union with the Ohio Federation of Teachers-AFT (OFT-AFT). Equitas Health Workers United (EHWU) is the fourth group of workers to successfully form a union with OFT-AFT in the past year, following union wins for workers at Worthington Libraries, Summit Academy in Lorain and Menlo Park Academy in Cleveland. “We’ve seen positive changes at Equitas since we began organizing more than a year ago, including the hiring of a new interim CEO who is moving Equitas Health in the right direction,” said Erin Koosed, a medical health advocate at Equitas Health’s Toledo office. “We plan to use our union voice and our upcoming contract negotiations to ensure that we keep moving in that direction and continue to address the needs of clients and staff.”
Digital Content Producers and Assignment Editors at WCCO Win Union with SAG-AFTRA: Digital and streaming team producers and assignment desk editors at Minnesota’s WCCO-TV have been officially recognized as a bargaining unit of SAG-AFTRA via a unanimous vote in a union election that was certified this month. The employees, who produce content for the CBS affiliate’s expanding digital footprint and source information for the newsroom, began discussions about organizing with the union more than three years ago. “On behalf of the Twin Cities Local Board, I congratulate the WCCO digital and streaming team, and assignment desk editors, on their victory,” said Twin Cities SAG-AFTRA Local President Peter Moore, who is the son of WCCO-TV legend Dave Moore. “Their victory is proof of the value and necessity of union membership and the power of solidarity. We are thrilled to welcome our newest brothers and sisters.”
Vineyard Workers on Long Island Form Union with RWDSU-UFCW Local 338: The farmworkers at Paumanok and Palmer Vineyards on Long Island, New York, have officially joined Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union-UFCW (RWDSU-UFCW) Local 338, the union announced. An organizing win that was many years in the making, it would not have been possible without the Farm Laborers Fair Labor Practices Act, which New York state’s labor movement fought long and hard to win. Before passage of the act in 2019, agricultural and farm workers were deprived of many basic workplace protections, including the right to organize and join a union. “We’re incredibly proud to have them join our union & look forward to negotiating a strong contract on their behalf,” Local 338 declared on Twitter. “Welcome to the union movement!”
ATU Local 689 Secures Tentative Agreement After Nine-Day Walkout: After a unified and strong nine-day strike, members of Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 689 who work for MetroAccess announced that they have reached a tentative agreement with private contractor Transdev. Earlier this month, the more than 200 paratransit drivers, utility workers, dispatchers, maintenance workers and road supervisors in the Washington, D.C., area walked off the job to demand a fair contract. The new deal would include notable gains in wages, retirement, holidays and paid time off. “Our members stood strong and united throughout this process. They braved the heat and the company’s tactics to try and divide us,” said Local 689 President Raymond Jackson. “This strike shows that our members are willing to lay it all on the line for justice.”
Casino Workers at Resorts and Golden Nugget Ratify Contract with Historic Wage Increases: Some 1,000 members of UNITE HERE Local 54 at Resorts and Golden Nugget casinos in Atlantic City, New Jersey, voted 99% “yes” to ratify new agreements with their employers. The workers at these two casinos have been standing strong for significant wage increases, better housekeeping workload standards and job protections. Their ratifications mean that now workers at all nine casinos have secured new contracts. “It’s gratifying after long and difficult negotiations for each side to feel that it has been successful,” Local 54 President Bob McDevitt told The Philadelphia Inquirer. “The future of the city is secure, the leadership of the industry is sound, and Local 54 will always fight for the rights of workers.”
Post-Production Workers Join Together in Union at Animation Studio ShadowMachine: Some two dozen post-production staffers who work at animation company ShadowMachine—the makers of popular adult animated shows such as “Robot Chicken” and “BoJack Horseman”—have officially formed a union with the Motion Picture Editors Guild (MPEG)-Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 700. The union was recognized after a formal card-check process took place. “Animation plays a huge and growing role in the entertainment industry, and too often the talented craftspeople who create it don’t enjoy the same union protections bestowed on their live-action counterparts,” said Alan Heim, president of the MPEG-IATSE Local 700. “Our guild is working hard to change that, and we’re excited that ShadowMachine is part of the story.” ShadowMachine’s production workers also voted to form a union with The Animation Guild-IATSE Local 839 in May.
University of Michigan’s Library and Museum Workers Organize Union With AFT: Hundreds of library and museum workers at the University of Michigan (UM) announced that they are forming University Staff United/American Federation of Teachers (AFT) Michigan Local 284. The workers who are organizing said that they are motivated to collectively bargain for adequate pay, better advancement opportunities, more inclusive and flexible working conditions, and access to affordable child care. The majority of workers are supporting the union drive. “On so many issues right now, university staff are at the mercy of the departments’ and the schools’ leadership,” said Samuel Simpson, a resource-sharing specialist at UM’s Ann Arbor campus. “If we’re unionized, management has to come to the table and brainstorm solutions alongside us. We’re not organizing to go against ‘them.’ We’re organizing to work better together.”
IAM Members at Boeing St. Louis Ratify New Contract After Standing Strong for Secure Retirement Plan, Other Improvements: Nearly 2,500 members of Machinists (IAM) District 837 at three Boeing defense locations around St. Louis voted to accept a modified three-year contract offer from their employer. After overwhelmingly voting to reject the company’s contract offer on July 24, the IAM District 837 negotiating committee and the membership stood strong to obtain a modified offer from Boeing. The newly ratified agreement features critical improvements to the company’s previous proposal for retirement plans and other areas. “Throughout negotiations, the committee worked diligently to educate the membership and bring back an improved offer from the company,” said District 837 President and Directing Business Representative Tom Boelling. “We have delivered an equitable contract that will secure the future for the members, their families and future generations.”
Stagehands in Dubuque, Iowa, Unanimously Vote ‘Union Yes’: Backstage technicians at the Five Flags Center in Dubuque, Iowa, have voted unanimously for union representation with Theatrical Stage Employees Local 191, which represents workers in northeast Iowa. The new bargaining unit consists of all full-time, regular part-time and on-call stagehands employed by ASM Global at its Dubuque facility. The Five Flags Center is a multipurpose facility in downtown Dubuque that includes a 4,000-seat arena for ticketed events and a more than 700-seat historic theater that is also the home of the Dubuque Symphony Orchestra.
Beto for Texas Campaign Staff Members Ratify First Contract, a Milestone in Texas Politics: Staffers for Texas gubernatorial candidate Beto O’Rourke’s campaign ratified their union contract last month, becoming the first statewide campaign in the Lone Star State to do so. The agreement covers 129 staffers in organizing, canvassing, press, scheduling, data, coordination, events, finance and other roles. Campaigners will join Office and Professional Employees (OPEIU) Local 277 for the duration of the campaign. “We are proud to join the labor movement and to be the first Texas statewide campaign to unionize,” said Rocio Dumey, an organizer on the Beto for Texas campaign. “Like Beto, we practice what we preach. We want to send a message that every worker in this state should have the right to demand better wages, benefits, and working conditions. We want to join them in that fight.”
Arlington County Workers Vote to Form Union with AFSCME: Service, labor and trades workers in Arlington County, Virginia, have voted overwhelmingly to join AFSCME Council 20. They are among the first public service workers in the state to form a union since 2020, when a worker-led campaign successfully overturned a decades-old state law that banned collective bargaining in the public sector. The repeal originated in a bill sponsored by Virginia Del. Elizabeth Guzman, an AFSCME member. “Together, we’ll bargain a strong contract that can address the disparity in wages between Arlington County and similar communities and expand our healthcare benefits and retirement plans,” said James Rodriguez, president of AFSCME Local 3001.
Registered Nurses at Hazel Hawkins Memorial Hospital Gain Wage Increases, Safety Improvements in New Contract: Registered nurses at Hazel Hawkins Memorial Hospital in Hollister, California, have secured several benefits with the ratification of a new four-year contract. The nurses are represented by National Nurses United (NNU). “Winning a strong contract means improvements for nursing staff that helps ensure nurses who work here and live here can stay in Hollister,” said Sonia Duran, RN, a member of the bargaining team. “As the only acute care facility in San Benito County, investing in retention and recruitment of nursing staff is crucial to continue to provide quality healthcare for our community.” The contract includes the creation of an Infectious Disease Task Force, workplace violence prevention, recognition of Juneteenth and Martin Luther King Day as holidays, expansion of nondiscrimination language and wage increases, among other benefits.
Alaska Airlines Workers Negotiate Industry-Leading Agreement: Workers at Alaska Airlines, represented by the International Association of Machinists (IAM), successfully negotiated an agreement with Alaska Airlines that covers customer service agents, cargo workers and other employees. Once approved, the agreement will make the workers among the highest paid in their classifications across the industry. The agreement will raise wages as much as 17.4%, with more raises scheduled down the line.
‘PBS NewsHour’ Staff Secure Union with SAG-AFTRA: After more than one year of organizing, dozens of reporters, producers, editors, production assistants and other workers who produce the venerated nightly news program “PBS NewsHour” have been officially recognized as a bargaining unit of SAG-AFTRA via a card-check agreement. The union announced that over 70% of the program’s workers signed on to a petition to form their union. “As the workers behind one of the most trusted news institutions in the country, our goal is to strengthen this pillar of American television news by creating a better, healthier and more transparent workplace,” the “NewsHour” content staff said in a statement. “We love our jobs and are truly driven by the NewsHour’s mission. We are glad that management chose to recognize our union and focus on the collective bargaining process that will ensure our voices are heard.”
Goodyear Workers Secure Tentative Agreement after Strike Threat: Workers at Goodyear, members of the Steelworkers (USW), will not go on strike after reaching a tentative agreement with management. “The tentative agreement is a four-year contract with general wage increases (GWI) plus the renewal of our COLA provisions in which all employees will receive the COLA increases,” the United Steel Workers/Goodyear Negotiating Committee said in a news release. The agreement also improves health care and pension benefits.
Steelworkers at Bridgestone Agree to New Contract As Old Contract Expires: After months and the possibility of a strike, members of USW Post 310 who work at Bridgestone secured a new contract. The new contract was tentatively agreed to 36 minutes after the old contract ran out. “When they reach a tentative agreement, they get all the details, they bring it back to the membership, then we have informational meetings. Several of them so everybody has the opportunity to, to look at everything there. Ask any questions to the bargaining team on the details of that. And then after that, we do a vote of the membership,” said Bill Campbell, vice president of Local 310.
IUOE Local 150 Members Unanimously Approve Contract After Seven-Week Strike: The members of Operating Engineers (IUOE) Local 150 went back to work after unanimously ratifying a new contract. The construction workers in the Chicago area secured a three-year agreement that provides wage increases of more than 16%. Local 150 members have been on strike since June 7 to demand a fair contract. The union announced the ratification on Facebook: “We thank the members as well as the other building trades and the public for the incredible support you’ve shown us over the past seven weeks. It is our hope that this strike will help all workers achieve more at the bargaining table.”
Workers at Trader Joe’s Store in Boulder Organize with UFCW: The labor movement continues to grow across the country, and grocery workers at Trader Joe’s are among the latest to flex their organizing muscles. United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 7 announced that it had filed a petition for a union election with the National Labor Relations Board on behalf of workers at a Trader Joe’s store in Boulder, Colorado. This is the third group of Trader Joe’s workers who are seeking to form a union. “Employees want a seat at the table,” Local 7 President Kim Cordova said. “They want a share of their employers’ incredible success. It’s about respect at work.” UFCW represents 835,000 grocery workers throughout the United States and Canada.
IT Workers at USDA Vote to Form Union: More than 800 workers at the Department of Agriculture (USDA) have joined AFGE after their election to form a union. The campaign was exciting and posed unique challenges as these IT workers all worked remotely and had limited engagement with each other before the organizing drive began. But through phone banking, sending texts, holding virtual meetings and, most importantly, tasking activists to contact their co-workers, they overwhelmingly voted “Union Yes.” “They became organized under the basic principle of wanting a say in their working conditions because they saw firsthand what a difference having a seat at the table could mean,” said John Dean, AFGE’s lead organizer for the campaign. “This election was the workers’ chance to stand up to the agency, and they did.”
Drivers at 10 Roads Express Win Union with APWU: Truck drivers for 10 Roads Express in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, have voted to form a union with the American Postal Workers Union (APWU). The 100 professional drivers join nearly 1,000 others at the U.S. Postal Service’s largest trucking contractor who are already part of the APWU. The union said the workers stood strong in solidarity against a concerted anti-union campaign from their employer. “Together, we will fight to secure things such as fair work rules, seniority rights, bidding rights, job security and more,” said Bill Hamilton, an 18-year veteran mail-haul driver. “Most importantly, we will not accept being treated with anything less than the dignity and respect that we, as professional drivers, deserve.”
West Virginia Chemical Workers Join ICWUC/UFCW for a Better Life: Workers at Elementis Specialties Inc., in New Martinsville, West Virginia, joined International Chemical Workers Union Council/United Food and Commercial Workers (ICWUC/UFCW) Local 566C for the better wages and benefits that come with a union contract. Elementis is a global chemical company, and the 25 workers are employed as chemical operators, lab technicians, material handlers and maintenance technicians. “The ICWUC is proud of the solidarity the workers of Elementis displayed with their unanimous election win,” said ICWUC/UFCW President Lance Heasley. “We are looking forward to getting to the bargaining table and working to secure a contract for these workers.”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 08/26/2022 - 15:18Tags: Organizing
Freight Railroad Worker Stories: Eugene Martinez of the National Conference of Firemen & Oilers/SEIU
At a recent Virtual U.S. Freight Railroad Worker Town Hall, Transportation Trades Department President Greg Regan introduced a group of workers who explained the challenges they’ve faced in their three-year fight for a new contract with U.S. freight railroad companies:
Since 2015, seven major railroad companies made $146 billion in net profits off the backs of these workers. That’s the most money they’ve ever made in the history of railroading—even more than the Gilded Era railroad robber barons. During this same time period, the companies eliminated 45,000 jobs from the industry. Instead of recognizing the value of these workers, the companies have enacted massive job cuts and offered the remaining workers a net pay cut and worse health care benefits than they have now. This is unacceptable.
In the coming days, the AFL-CIO will share the stories of those workers. Check back here every day for more.
Today’s story comes from Eugene Martinez of the National Conference of Firemen & Oilers (NCFO), an affiliate of SEIU. He works as a mechanical service operator at Union Pacific in Houston. As a mechanical operator, Martinez is a locomotive engine mover, forklift operator and locomotive service truck driver. He also supplies and services locomotives.
Martinez said: “I have been with the railroad for more than 14 years now. I work anywhere from 70 to 80 hours a week. Our main issues are manpower, pay and time off. When I was hired in 2008, we had close to 100 mechanical service operators. We are now down to 42. We’re taking on more work for the same pay.
“My job is among the lowest-paid railroad crafts, but we do the most dangerous job. It’s almost impossible to take time off without violating the attendance policy. Only two NCFO members are allowed off a day. If the day is full you can forget about it, and the day is always full because we are short-staffed.
“The job puts a lot of strain on our families because we miss a lot of events. You know, we don't really get those special meaningful times with our kids or our families. We miss birthdays, graduations, sporting events and more. My daughters play high school sports, and I miss a lot of their games because I have to work. And I speak for a lot of other workers who have missed time with their family. We’ve missed countless moments. It shouldn’t be like this.”
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: Department of Labor to Promote Unions and Collective Bargaining with New Resource Center
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 percentage of America’s workers who want to form a union (52%) is more than four times higher than the percentage of workers who are actually in a union (12%). Working people face many obstacles in their organizing attempts—including some ruthless employers who blatantly violate labor laws to snuff out their employees’ campaigns. And for others, there’s a lack of understanding about what unions are and what we can achieve through collective bargaining.
The Biden administration’s Department of Labor gets it. That’s why the department, under the leadership of Labor Secretary Marty Walsh (LIUNA), is launching a new resource center for unions and collective bargaining. The resource center will serve as a hub of information for what working people can achieve as union members to lift up themselves and their co-workers, strengthen their industries and communities, and protect America’s democracy.
Walsh announced this new initiative on Wednesday night during the AFL-CIO’s Labor Day Kickoff webinar, where he said he sees it as his role to help grow union power. The department said it is “in a unique position to house this resource center because of its mission to foster, promote and develop the welfare of workers.” This move shows again why elections matter—and what we can achieve with pro-labor elected officials in office.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 08/26/2022 - 09:30Freight Railroad Worker Stories: Esmerelda Montelongo of TCU/IAM
At a recent Virtual U.S. Freight Railroad Worker Town Hall, Transportation Trades Department President Greg Regan introduced a group of workers who explained the challenges they’ve faced in their three-year fight for a new contract with U.S. freight railroad companies:
Since 2015, seven major railroad companies made $146 billion in net profits off the backs of these workers. That’s the most money they’ve ever made in the history of railroading—even more than the Gilded Era railroad robber barons. During this same time period, the companies eliminated 45,000 jobs from the industry. Instead of recognizing the value of these workers, the companies have enacted massive job cuts and offered the remaining workers a net pay cut and worse health care benefits than they have now. This is unacceptable.
In the coming days, the AFL-CIO will share the stories of those workers. Check back here every day for more.
Today’s story comes from Esmerelda Montelongo, who works as a trailer container facility clerk for Union Pacific in Los Angeles. Esmerelda has worked in every rail yard that she oversees in the Los Angeles area, and she is a proud member of the Transportation Communications Union (TCU), an affiliate of the International Association of Machinists (IAM).
Montelongo said: “To be honest with you, I have no personal life. It feels that home is at work for me. And I just go on vacation for six hours when I am home. I literally work about 70 hours a week. And I work 16 hours almost every single day. I have three kids. I work so many hours that I have lost many special moments with them. They see me and they're like, ‘You know what, Mom, just quit. Because it's not fair for us.’
“I know that 15 years ago, I signed up to work for the railroad. And it was something awesome. I am a first-generation union worker. I thought I had made it. But now it seems that the railroad sees us as just a number. We are not human to them. They just use us until we can’t work anymore or until someone gets hurt.
“It just seems that the more you try to do, the more they take away from you. So it is not fair. It has a major impact on our kids. Because if the parents are not home, who's taking care of the kids? So it just doesn't affect us; it affects our children, also.”
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: Maine Med Nurses Overwhelmingly Defeat Union-Busting Attempt
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.
Once again, Maine Medical Center nurses in Portland have voted for a strong union voice on the job. In the decertification election held last week, nurses voted by an even larger majority for their union than they did the first time, in April 2021. Nurses won by a nearly 3-to-1 margin (74% to 26%) to keep their union. Maine Med nurses say they are excited to affirm their union support and get back to the bargaining table. “The National Right to Work Legal Defense Foundation is a right-wing, out-of-state organization that goes around trying to get workers to decertify their unions,” said Mary Kate O’Sullivan, RN and a bargaining team member, explaining some of the forces at play in the election. “They thought because we were a new union, they could manipulate Maine Med nurses and overturn our 2021 election. But we just showed them the door.”
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 08/25/2022 - 10:11Freight Railroad Worker Stories
At a recent Virtual U.S. Freight Railroad Worker Town Hall, Transportation Trades Department President Greg Regan introduced a group of workers who explained the challenges they’ve faced in their three-year fight for a new contract with U.S. freight railroad companies:
Since 2015, seven major railroad companies made $146 billion in net profits off the backs of these workers. That’s the most money they’ve ever made in the history of railroading—even more than the Gilded Era railroad robber barons. During this same time period, the companies eliminated 45,000 jobs from the industry. Instead of recognizing the value of these workers, the companies have enacted massive job cuts and offered the remaining workers a net pay cut and worse health care benefits than they have now. This is unacceptable.
Here are the profiles we've published so far:
- Rodney Neatrour of IAM
- Mike Gage of IBEW
- Justin Ratcliffe of BRS
- Reece Murtagh of IAM
- Kari Cecil of SMART-TD
- Luke Edington of SMART-TD
- Nick Greficz of SMART-TD
- Willette Thomas of TCU/IAM
- Brandon Redman of TWU
In the coming days, the AFL-CIO will share more stories of those workers. Check back here every day for more.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 08/24/2022 - 15:08Freight Railroad Worker Stories: Brandon Redman of TWU
At a recent Virtual U.S. Freight Railroad Worker Town Hall, Transportation Trades Department President Greg Regan introduced a group of workers who explained the challenges they’ve faced in their three-year fight for a new contract with U.S. freight railroad companies:
Since 2015, seven major railroad companies made $146 billion in net profits off the backs of these workers. That’s the most money they’ve ever made in the history of railroading—even more than the Gilded Era railroad robber barons. During this same time period, the companies eliminated 45,000 jobs from the industry. Instead of recognizing the value of these workers, the companies have enacted massive job cuts and offered the remaining workers a net pay cut and worse health care benefits than they have now. This is unacceptable.
In the coming days, the AFL-CIO will share the stories of those workers. Check back here every day for more.
Today’s story comes from Brandon Redman of the Transport Workers Union (TWU). He works as a freight car repairman/inspector for Norfolk Southern in Elkhart, Indiana.
Redman said: “When I was hired in 2009, we had 80 Carmen out there. Now, we have just around 50. So you have less people doing the same amount of work or even more work, given the increased freight demand.
“There have been several instances in the last few years where the same Carman has been forced to work 16-hour shifts on four or five days in the same week. There is no way a person can be rested for an additional shift without having some sort of a heads-up of more than an hour.
“When you take into account all the additional responsibilities in life, such as driving to and from work, securing food for you and your family, paying bills, child care, hygiene, and so on, it is impossible to be rested for duty and be safe at work with forced 16-hour work days, let alone with no notice.
“That’s just unsafe and it creates a real problem. The continued grind by the Carmen that haven't quit yet has taken a real toll.
“When I was hired in 2009, there were 10 to 12 inspectors working in the rail yard every shift. Now there's only six per shift. But the freight hasn't declined. In fact, it's increased. So you have more freight, less inspectors and quicker inspection times, and obviously it's not sustainable.
“At the end of the day, if we were properly staffed there would be safe and rested employees; proper inspections; safer trains and freight cars traveling the country; and greater employee retention.”
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: Ohio Unions Rally for Rail Workers with Support from Pro-Labor Candidates
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.
Unions in Toledo, Ohio, held a rally on Saturday demanding a fair contract for railroad workers who have gone almost three years without a contract or a pay increase. The ongoing dispute with America’s largest freight rail companies has spurred action from the Biden administration, which last week released recommendations to help resolve the bargaining impasse.
Rep. Tim Ryan, the pro-labor candidate running for the U.S. Senate in Ohio, spoke about his union roots and called on union members to vote this election year for candidates who have a record of helping working people get ahead. He was joined at the rally by Rep. Marcy Kaptur and other union-endorsed candidates.
Transportation Trades Department, AFL-CIO (TTD) President Greg Regan also spoke at the rally about the labor movement’s increasing power and popularity: “Unions have the highest favorability ratings in decades. People are waking up. They’re recognizing they have power in their jobs.”
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 08/24/2022 - 09:49The Union Vote: 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:
Alabama Organized Labor Awards Foundation (AOLAF) held it's annual awards banquet August 13th at Embassy Suites in Hoover Alabama and named AFGE National President Everett Kelly 2022 Labor Person of the Year. pic.twitter.com/VxMlxPDT6e
— Alabama AFL-CIO (@AlabamaAFLCIO) August 15, 2022Alaska AFL-CIO:
Union member and endorsed East Anchorage State House candidate @TedForAlaska joined us this morning to help kick off our Labor Walk. #1u #GetOutTheLaborVote pic.twitter.com/WYrTYdvqSm
— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) August 20, 2022Arizona AFL-CIO:
"The union vote passed 45-31." Congratulations to the first unionized Trader Joe's! https://t.co/2O7fvGHhUg
— Arizona AFL-CIO (@ArizonaAFLCIO) August 8, 2022California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:
The March for the Governor’s Signature on #AB2183 to ensure fair elections for Farm Workers has crossed into Sacramento County on its 20th day.
Join up with thousands of us on Friday as the March ends at the State Capitol @ 9:30am.
Learn more 👉🏾👉🏼👉🏽 👉🏿 https://t.co/KTxp276ShO https://t.co/kPaCOuyqmP
Georgia State AFL-CIO:
Rally for workers at Specialty Finishes, Inc. at Emory University in Atlanta with IUPAT District Council 77 . Workers rights are human rights! #UnionStrong #rallyforworkers #1U #georgia #votingmatters #love #communitysupport #activism #workersrights #WorkersUnite pic.twitter.com/fpPzXswy7n
— Georgia AFL-CIO // Pass The #ProAct (@AFLCIOGeorgia) August 23, 2022Indiana State AFL-CIO:
MUST LISTEN to Braxton’s story. He’s been on strike with the United Mineworkers against Warrior Met Coal for more than 500 days.
One day longer. One day stronger. #solidarity https://t.co/0VUUCQrXQB
Iowa Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO:
Stop making excuses for Trump! – Daily High Five https://t.co/FGVB8tjMYB
— Iowa AFL-CIO (@IowaAFLCIO) August 22, 2022Maine AFL-CIO:
Augusta Chipotle workers lost their jobs for filing to form the first union at the company.
Now they need our help to continue the fight against Chipotle. Please donate to their Solidarity Fund: https://t.co/ikmpG7eqYh @BrandiMcnease @fightfor15 @32BJSEIU pic.twitter.com/fcXrgwe1ut
Maryland State and D.C. AFL-CIO:
Scream it from the rooftops: #UnionStrong https://t.co/UABHjlHuLa
— Maryland State and DC AFL-CIO (@MDDCStateFed) August 11, 2022Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
Great morning out on the doors for @Arena_DeRosa, @SousaforRep, and statewide candidates! #mapoli #1u pic.twitter.com/1nS5oPbDuJ
— Massachusetts AFL-CIO // Build Back Better (@massaflcio) August 20, 2022Michigan State AFL-CIO:
National call center legislation is COMMON SENSE legislation. Call your Congressional representative TODAY and tell them you support the U.S. Call Center Worker and Consumer Protection Act! https://t.co/Lwm2wos0NU
— Michigan AFL-CIO 💉💪 (@MIAFLCIO) August 18, 2022Minnesota AFL-CIO:
The #MNStateFair starts Thursday and we're getting the Labor Pavilion ready! Join us for music, giveaways, and more on the corner of Dan Patch & Cooper. P.S. The fanny packs are back! https://t.co/4pKwK96uiv #1u pic.twitter.com/vTtLhXMru2
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) August 22, 2022Missouri AFL-CIO:
After two back-to-back years of having Labor Day parades canceled by the COVID-19 pandemic, the fun returns this year with events in St. Louis, Granite City and Belleville, among others. Check out the list of events by clicking the link. https://t.co/ax8jr9NPq9
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) August 23, 2022Nevada State AFL-CIO:
Nevada State AFL-CIO Announces New Candidate Endorsements:
Toby Yurek (AD 19)
Elizabeth Brickfield (AD 23)
Selena La Rue Hatch (AD 25)
Angie Taylor (AD 27)
Reuben D’Silva (AD 28) Shannon McDaniel (AD 40) Aaron Sims (SD 16)
Full Endorsement List: https://t.co/M0AnF2hl9K pic.twitter.com/cd6l5VleFN
New Hampshire AFL-CIO:
Biden succeeds where others failed. US workers win. https://t.co/y4qj9cAXDk @AFTNewHampshire @AFSCME93 @SEIU1984 @NHNEAPrez @UAW2322 @PFFNH @Local_789 @NTULocal1044 @AFTunion @AAUP @AaupUnh @Ibew2320nh @Ibew490 @APWU
— New Hampshire AFL-CIO (@NHAFLCIO) August 21, 2022New Jersey State AFL-CIO:
Our Labor Candidates from our 26th Annual Labor Candidates School. We look to a successful campaign training as our union sisters and brothers go on to utilize what they learn to make sure Labor wins in November! pic.twitter.com/wwYwJCvv4n
— New Jersey AFL-CIO (@NJAFLCIO) August 19, 2022New York State AFL-CIO:
Agreed! Farmworkers deserve the same dignity and respect as all other workers! #UnionStrong https://t.co/eY642YZLRM
— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) August 22, 2022North Carolina State AFL-CIO:
Do our elected leaders know how it feels to choose between food and medicine? I do. https://t.co/SRaEZ55CaD
— NC State AFL-CIO // #OrganizeTheSouth (@NCStateAFLCIO) August 17, 2022Ohio AFL-CIO:
It's astounding the @ohiogop whined and cried over the John Lewis Voting Rights Act complaining of federal interference, then turn around and beg the same federal government to protect their blatant disregard of the Ohio Constitution. https://t.co/pXE8dNOm5G
— 🇺🇦 Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) August 22, 2022Oregon AFL-CIO:
Unions make a difference in the lives of women, their families, and their communities worldwide. #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/HG6ZWjzAmA
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) August 23, 2022Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:
On behalf of 700,000 working men and women in PA, represented by 51 International Unions and 1,422 Locals, the PA AFL-CIO Executive Council endorsed 178 candidates in the Pennsylvania 2022 General Election.
The complete list: https://t.co/K2ApOKODGZ#Labor2022 #PAAFLCIO #AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/har4pmww7S
Rhode Island AFL-CIO:
The RI AFL-CIO rod proudly endorsed Speaker @JoeShekarchi for re-election 🗳 pic.twitter.com/suQlVDCTId
— Rhode Island AFL-CIO (@riaflcio) August 22, 2022Texas AFL-CIO:
Yesterday our team held our fourth volunteer training in North Texas, preparing union members to make a difference in the upcoming election.
Led by @NTX_RFieldOrg, volunteers learned how to canvass, make calls, and speak to fellow union siblings about getting involved. #1u pic.twitter.com/hxXfwLcIJ0
Virginia AFL-CIO:
Introducing our new friend Postie for our Labor 2022 program! #1u #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/Y8zGoRxKZO
— Virginia AFL-CIO (@Virginia_AFLCIO) August 17, 2022Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:
Looking for a good, union job? Know someone who is? Help us get the word out about the @MLKLabor ✨Union Jobs Fair✨ in Seattle from 4-6pm on Sept. 1! Get all the details and sign up: https://t.co/wWcWaHGRLJ #1u pic.twitter.com/4nXLJXVH9y
— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) August 23, 2022Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
Organized by the Professional Fire Fighters of Wisconsin union @PFFW https://t.co/3FSjf8kUCa
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) August 23, 2022 Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 08/23/2022 - 14:25Freight Railroad Worker Stories: Willette Thomas of TCU/IAM
At a recent Virtual Freight Railroad Worker Town Hall, Transportation Trades Department (TTD) President Greg Regan introduced a group of workers who explained the challenges they've faced in their three-year fight for a new contract with U.S. freight railroad companies:
Since 2015, seven major railroad companies made $146 billion in net profits off the backs off these workers. That’s the most money they’ve ever made in the history of railroading—even more than the Gilded Era railroad robber barons. During this same time period, the companies eliminated 45,000 jobs from the industry. Instead of recognizing the value of these workers, the companies have enacted massive job cuts and offered the remaining workers a net pay cut and worse health care benefits than they have now. This is unacceptable.In the coming days, the AFL-CIO will share the stories of those workers. Check back here every day for more.
Today's story comes from Willette Thomas, a crew dispatcher who works for CSX in Jacksonville, Florida. She is a member of the Transportation Communications Union (TCU), an affiliate of the International Association of Machinists (IAM).
Thomas said: “I've been with the railroad for 23 years. When the pandemic started, we were told that we were essential workers and had to come to work every day. We were not afforded the safe option of working from home as others in the company were afforded. We were told that we were essential workers who had to come to work in the building, but we were not protected as essential workers.
“I work in a building that houses crew dispatchers and train dispatchers. They started with giving us partitions that barely reached our shoulders when we sat down. Finally, they gave us partitions that made sense—ones that were actually taller than us. They eventually gave us masks and wipes. But of course, those things were always running out. There were times when we had to use our own supplies or wait for them to gather the supplies.
“We are a 24/7 operation and we share desks. So even prior to COVID, it was very important that we wiped things down because we're desk sharing over three shifts. Then the layoffs came. So when the layoffs started coming, we were being forced to work 16-hour shifts. Every day we would go to work and we didn't know if we were coming home at the end of our scheduled eight-hour shift.
“And then we started getting COVID in waves.
“I can honestly say without any doubt that 99% of us got COVID in the building. There were deaths, many deaths. We had crew dispatchers who passed away. We had managers who passed away. We had train dispatchers who passed away. I mean, these are people's families, their husbands, their sons. These were family members that were passing away as a result of not being properly protected in the building and not being given the opportunity to work from home.
“I know that we have the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) but nobody ever really said to us, ‘Do you need EAP? Are you OK? Are you all emotionally and mentally OK?’ No one ever asked. There was no compassion. We showed up, we worked with no contract, no raise, and never an offer for hazard pay of any kind.
“I never felt like an essential worker. I was never recognized as an essential worker. I get it. I'm not a doctor. I'm not a nurse. But when the railroad said that I had to come to work every day because I am an essential worker but I never received any essential worker benefits from it, that was disheartening. There was no COVID pay when we were out sick. We had to use our own entitlements to maintain financial stability—if you had entitlements. I had my daughter and a newborn grandson at home. There was always the scare of coming home and giving my family COVID, which I did. My daughter got it. Thank God, the baby was fine, but there was always that fear.”
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: Boilermakers Advocate for Diversified Energy Strategy at Hydrogen Summit
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.
With hydrogen gaining global interest in the mix of evolving climate change solutions, members of the Boilermakers (IBB) joined “Renewable Hydrogen: Energy’s Future,” a union-hosted summit in Bilbao, Spain, in June. IBB International Director of Climate Change Policy Solutions Cory Channon served on a panel to discuss the Boilermakers’ position on an “all of the above” energy approach and solutions—including carbon capture, use and storage and hydrogen—that can provide reliable energy and preserve or create jobs.
“We need all energy options: wind, solar, hydro, nuclear, fossil fuels and hydrogen. And we need to deploy all solutions that can stop climate change,” Channon said. “We can’t cherry pick the solutions that fit neatly into a narrow narrative, and we’re not working together as we should be.”
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 08/23/2022 - 10:02Marching Forward: 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.
Marching Forward: An Exclusive Interview with AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler: “What workers really want is a seat at the table about decisions that affect their daily lives—through unions in the AFL-CIO or independent of it. Agreeing to that, rather than labor law-breaking to stop union organizing, is good for business, too, Shuler stated. It produces more-willing workers who stay longer, produce higher-quality products and boost profits. All this with a vision in mind: To lead/march unions forward into new work sectors, new directions and new bottom-up decision-making in politics, union leadership and organizing.”
As Apprenticeships Take Off, Unions are in the Driver’s Seat: “When the White House held a summit last month touting its efforts to rebuild the workforce through the American Rescue Plan, Melissa Wells was a featured speaker. An experienced labor leader, she’d recently joined North America’s Building Trades Unions, an umbrella labor organization for the construction industry, to head up its strategic efforts around workforce development and career pathways. She was given a particular focus on bringing a more diverse group of Americans into the building trades. NABTU, Wells told the audience, is ‘very intentional about how we can create a more diverse workforce.’ And the linchpin in that work is union-led apprenticeships. North America’s Building Trades Unions coordinates and supports much of the training work that local unions do on the ground. Fifteen years ago, it designed a multi-craft pre-apprenticeship program designed to get more people across the country into the apprenticeship pipeline.”
Progressive National Convention Joins with AFL-CIO to Advance Racial and Economic Justice: “Martin Luther King Jr. also saw the connection between racism and economic oppression, AFL-CIO Treasurer Fred Redmond said during the town hall session. ‘Dr. King knew all too well that you could not have racial justice without economic justice. That’s why Dr. King worked so hard to bring the civil rights movement and the labor movement together,’ he said. ‘Dr. King knew that social and racial equality depend on economic security. And that remains true today.’ PNBC and the AFL-CIO must collaborate now to resist surging voter suppression efforts and other existential threats, Redmond said. The denomination, to which King belonged, and the labor giant joined to promote the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1964.”
SAG-AFTRA and AMPTP Reach Tentative Agreement On Exclusivity Contract Provisions: “SAG-AFTRA and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers have reached a tentative agreement covering exclusivity terms—standard provisions in TV contracts that can hold actors off the market and unable to work for long periods of time. The tentative agreement is subject to approval by the SAG-AFTRA National Board, which will meet on Saturday, Aug. 20.”
Atlanta’s Overlooked Labor Union History May Show the Future of Changing Times: “Labor organizing is tough in a right-to-work state where unions have long been presented as ‘scary,’ said Charlie Fleming, director of the Georgia AFL-CIO, a federation of unions. But, he said, local union membership is rising with demographic changes, a young generation aware it’s ‘gotten the shaft,’ and the society-shaking effects of COVID-19. ‘I think it’s changing and I think it’s going the other way. The pendulum has switched,’ said Fleming, who’s been a machinist for Northwest Airlines at Hartsfield-Jackson for over 30 years. ‘I’m excited as a labor leader.’”
Organizing a Top Topic at Steelworkers Convention: “Organizing—who, where and what industries—dominated the discussion and delegates’ decisions at the Steelworkers convention in Las Vegas. The five-day gathering of 2,000 delegates, plus observers and others, heard union President Tom Conway set that agenda and U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris laud it. The nuts-and-bolts details were in resolutions the delegates approved, according to postings on USW’s website. ‘People want more power. They want more of a voice. They want more opportunity,’ Conway led off in his keynote address.”
26th Annual Labor Candidates School Provides Union Member Political Candidates with the Skills to Win: “Over the weekend, the New Jersey State AFL-CIO hosted its 26th annual Labor Candidates School featuring a graduating class of 24 union members running for office as first-time candidates. Additionally, many alumnae opted to join the school for a refresher course, as the Labor Candidates School provides training in the most up-to-date campaign techniques, which continue to evolve at a rapid pace.”
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 08/22/2022 - 15:50Freight Railroad Worker Stories: Nick Greficz of SMART-TD
At a recent Virtual U.S. Freight Railroad Worker Town Hall, Transportation Trades Department President Greg Regan introduced a group of workers who explained the challenges they’ve faced in their three-year fight for a new contract with U.S. freight railroad companies:
Since 2015, seven major railroad companies made $146 billion in net profits off the backs of these workers. That’s the most money they’ve ever made in the history of railroading—even more than the Gilded Era railroad robber barons. During this same time period, the companies eliminated 45,000 jobs from the industry. Instead of recognizing the value of these workers, the companies have enacted massive job cuts and offered the remaining workers a net pay cut and worse health care benefits than they have now. This is unacceptable.
In the coming days, the AFL-CIO will share the stories of those workers. Check back here every day for more.
Today’s story comes from Nick Greficz, a member of the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (SMART) Transportation Division (TD) in Detroit.
In 2005, Greficz was hired as a conductor for Norfolk Southern. He is currently a SMART TD organizer and also serves as the secretary for SMART TD’s General Committee of Adjustment 687.
Greficz said, “All the burden is being put on the shoulders of the employees, but they’re getting none of the benefits. Instead, they’re getting stagnant wages [and] dealing with unnecessary safety exposures and blatant disregard for the collective bargaining agreements on property. Instead of being treated as valuable assets, they’re being treated as numbers. And workers are tired of it. People are resigning en masse. There’s no consideration given to the employees for their personal lives.
“You [can] have 25 years on the railroad, and a year in advance you can say, ‘I request to have Thanksgiving off so I can be with my family’ or ‘I request Halloween off so I can take my kids trick-or-treating,’ and those requests are denied,” Greficz added. “Just because you’ve accrued the time off for working there for five, 10, 15 or 20 years does not mean that you actually get to use it. The manpower shortage trumps your years of loyal service to the railroad. It’s a shame, especially since the manpower shortages across all the freight railroads are self-imposed.
“What was once a highly regarded craft and a career has been dwindled down to a job that they can’t even hire people for when the minimum requirement is a high school diploma or GED,” he continued. “It’s actually deplorable what’s happened to this industry. You used to go to a hiring session, and there would be 400 people standing in a room for four job openings. Now, the railroads can’t get four people to show up when they want to hire for 400 jobs. That’s a problem.”
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 08/22/2022 - 10:00Service + Solidarity Spotlight: Union Members Hit the Pavement in Atlanta to Bring Home Election Wins
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.
Members of Communications Workers of America (CWA) Local 3204 and SEIU as well as allied organizations and community partners gathered on Saturday for a weekend of action geared toward informing the community and voters about what’s at stake with this year’s election. The joint canvass event in Atlanta was supported by leaders of the Georgia State AFL-CIO and AFL-CIO staff members. Union volunteers successfully canvassed neighborhoods around the Atlanta area to increase voter support for pro-labor candidates in this key battleground state.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 08/22/2022 - 09:45Elections Matter!: What Working People Are Doing This Week
Welcome to our regular feature, a look at what the various AFL-CIO unions and other working family organizations are doing across the country and beyond. The labor movement is big and active—here's a look at the broad range of activities we're engaged in this week.
Actors' Equity:
Equity delegates have begun sharing their ideas for proposed resolutions with each other. If you have thoughts about the work you’d like to see at this year's convention, now is the time to reach out to your delegates and make your voice heard.
🔗 https://t.co/WB3gz6KPnf pic.twitter.com/Zi7t6A20PA
AFGE:
AFGE turns 90 today!
From the very beginning, our union’s mission has been not just to empower our members in the workplace but to give the American people a government that works for them.
Show us some birthday love! 🥳#1u pic.twitter.com/ilVYajLUWx
AFSCME:
Two new public-safety laws – that have strong AFSCME support – will keep our communities safer and benefit first responders and their families. https://t.co/dnQLiE4BAS
— AFSCME (@AFSCME) August 18, 2022Alliance for Retired Americans:
Elections matter! The midterm elections this November will have a direct impact on expanding Medicaid and reducing the coverage gap. https://t.co/us1rkJjC1E
— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) August 18, 2022Amalgamated Transit Union:
Our maintenance members at Local 998-Milwaukee, WI, came out for a practice picket to send a strong and unified message to Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) that they demand a fair and just contract that treats them with the dignity and respect they deserve. #1u #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/zL7F2B7Lv3
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) August 17, 2022American Federation of Teachers:
"As we head back to school, the AFT is laser-focused on supporting teachers and school staff with the tools and resources that can help educators help kids learn and succeed."
Watch this video from @rweingarten announcing @sharemylesson's 2 million members 🎉 pic.twitter.com/PYE2WkUYb1
American Postal Workers Union:
Pres. Dimondstein: The entire labor movement must up the game to defend and expand voting rights and compel the federal government, which hides behind the anti-democratic filibuster and has shamefully not passed voting rights legislation to stop this new wave of voter suppression pic.twitter.com/sUhNH93uYN
— APWU National (@APWUnational) August 15, 2022Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance:
Care about safe and fair elections? You can help make sure elections run smoothly and polling places stay open in your own community by signing up to be a poll worker @powerthepolls today. #PollWorkerRecruitmentDay https://t.co/2G6pOgbVCF pic.twitter.com/azG5fTcAfo
— Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance, AFL-CIO (@APALAnational) August 16, 2022Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:
Today, aviation unions launched a campaign demanding airline CEOs pledge to stabilize the industry with reliable operations & good jobs before diverting any airline cash to Wall Street through stock buybacks. #GreedDoesntFly
Demand action: https://t.co/dbkguAvI3R pic.twitter.com/4nXiLvr2XZ
Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers:
40 BCTGM members of Local 85 have gone on STRIKE at @CornNuts in Fresno, Calif. (owned by @HormelFoods). Get the early facts & learn how you can support! 👉 https://t.co/8u40vULvEw#CornNutsStrike #OnStrike #1u pic.twitter.com/b7aig3lmvX
— BCTGM International (@BCTGM) August 17, 2022Boilermakers:
We stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters at @TSSAunion ✊ #RailStrikes https://t.co/dFA1nf1kUx
— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) August 18, 2022Bricklayers:
IUBAC hails the passage of the IRA and congratulates Congress for taking the bold steps to make it a reality. “The Inflation Reduction Act shows that addressing climate change does not have to come at the expense of good jobs." - Pres. Driscoll https://t.co/qXqhWxGxCF
— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) August 13, 2022Coalition of Black Trade Unionists:
https://t.co/MxmnC6F4Ai Watch: CBTU President Terry Melvin’s speech at the United Mineworkers Convention:
— CBTU (@CBTU72) August 11, 2022Communications Workers of America:
All union members should know about their Weingarten Rights. https://t.co/BHOCIpspkd
— CWA (@CWAUnion) August 18, 2022Department for Professional Employees:
We are excited for the strippers of Star Garden Topless Dive Bar in North Hollywood who are joining together in union with @ActorsEquity!
Supporters in LA can show their solidarity on Friday (8/19) at 6:30 p.m. PT at a rally outside of the Equity office. pic.twitter.com/frHUswN6k2
Electrical Workers:
Colorado #IBEW apprentice has a unique side-gig: Modeling https://t.co/nRhmNqXRq5
— IBEW (@IBEW) August 18, 2022Fire Fighters:
FSRI Report Studies Near Misses to Help Improve Safety https://t.co/jtTnV6Lm0V pic.twitter.com/aPEzkSye5e
— International Association of Fire Fighters (@IAFFNewsDesk) August 18, 2022Heat and Frost Insulators:
Mechanical Insulation is the one item that goes into a building and starts paying for itself as soon as the system is activated, immediately saving energy and reducing greenhouse emissions to help our environment. https://t.co/wqLli9ybTL pic.twitter.com/mTCRBb2Xnn
— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) August 18, 2022International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers:
IFPTE Applauds President Biden’s Signing of Inflation Reduction Act, Which Supports TVA Green Energy Investments https://t.co/YYbtfqSc5D
— IFPTE (@IFPTE) August 16, 2022International Labor Communications Association:
REMINDER: ILCA’s 2022 Labor Media Awards are open thru 9/30. Entry fees will go up on 9/2!
We’re holding a live Q&A on 8/19 to answer any questions about the contest.
RSVP for 12:30PM ET/9:30AM PT: https://t.co/fFgFaNZaWd
RSVP for 3:30PM ET/12:30PM PT: https://t.co/EyfmzZbl6I pic.twitter.com/5tsU6vQZW3
Ironworkers:
Mentorship within our Union is essential!
IW's Director of Diversity Vicki O'Leary lays out the importance in the July issue of The Ironworker Magazine. https://t.co/U7O1bFf8tr#Ironworkers #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/GPh3Fv7vpT
Jobs With Justice:
A must-read new report from @CPDAction. Once you've read it, sign the petition to call for an official investigation into the conditions at pharma plants in Puerto Rico!
👇🏾https://t.co/XDgXiki5qA https://t.co/bIK1xln5Qw
Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:
Join us at our 50th Anniversary Gala to hear from @LatinaInstitute Executive Director @lupemrodriguez! Purchase tickets for the gala today: https://t.co/XTORPdcMfs pic.twitter.com/3IJiYsTkp0
— LCLAA (@LCLAA) August 18, 2022Laborers:
Good news for infrastructure & jobs! @POTUS delivers for working people. https://t.co/FP46Kd7bSh
— LIUNA (@LIUNA) August 18, 2022Machinists:
“We fought for & won unprecedented relief for airline workers to save the industry for its workers and the flying public, not to line the pockets of Wall Street,” -Richard Johnsen, @iamairtransport General Vice President... No Stock Buybacks! https://t.co/yuPZ7z97XQ
— Machinists Union (@MachinistsUnion) August 18, 2022Metal Trades Department:
“AB 2183 would give more choices to farmworkers so they can vote free from intimidation — in secret, whenever and wherever they feel safe.” #Solidarity #UnionYES #WorkersVoicehttps://t.co/5A41dxuX0p
— Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) August 18, 2022Mine Workers:
On August 14, 1923, when a miner relit their lamp, fumes were ignited causing an explosion at the Frontier Mine owned by Kemmerer Coal Company. 99 miners were killed because of this explosion. #NeverForget #AnniversaryPost pic.twitter.com/EcmV3jHWaQ
— United Mine Workers (@MineWorkers) August 14, 2022Musical Artists:
AGMA Ratifies 3-Year Agreement with Houston Grand Opera: https://t.co/YkhmUaRR2O pic.twitter.com/YBEjCeyMWI
— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) August 18, 2022National Air Traffic Controllers Association:
NATCA SCHOLARSHIP WINNER HIGHLIGHT: Camryn Cadenhead, child of Kansas City ATCT (MCI) member Clarence Cadenhead, is among the 2022 winners of the NATCA scholarship. Read the essay Camryn submitted here: https://t.co/agA8AItSEx pic.twitter.com/YDBATlHgLW
— NATCA (@NATCA) August 18, 2022National Association of Letter Carriers:
Kimberly Smith of Colorado Springs Br. 204 was at an apartment building on her route when a woman frantically approached her and asked if she knew CPR. She said yes, headed to the swimming pool, and started life-saving chest compressions on a young girl. https://t.co/Xu1mvT60EQ
— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) August 18, 2022National Domestic Workers Alliance:
“You will find domestic work is much more than meets the eye. They are teachers, nurses, confidants, coaches, event planners and much more,” - @aijenpoo
A #DomesticWorkersBillofRights is how we make sure every worker has the safe workplace they deserve.https://t.co/QvADAlBmlk
National Federation of Federal Employees:
Reminder: Take Advantage of the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Waiver by October 31st! Almost all federal employees are qualified.
Visit our new resource page for more information: https://t.co/47YIflgiZI pic.twitter.com/p45EhdGTiA
National Nurses United:
The #monkeypox virus is continuing to spread, and more nurses are seeing suspected or confirmed cases in our facilities.
Join us for a special livestream presentation on what nurses and other health care workers need to know. https://t.co/SzPZt0OWhX
National Taxi Workers Alliance:
Rest in Peace, our Brother.
He was robbed, beaten and fell while being struck by multiple passengers. But the headline implies he just fell while running.
This was a working person trying to earn a living and he was killed on the job. Rest in Peace, our Brother. pic.twitter.com/qLUSOK0TQ3
NFL Players Association:
One time for Kylen Granson @theKCG18, who distributed 250 uniforms as well as 550 backpacks & supplies at the @KGsKids1 2nd annual Back To School Drive for Indianapolis-area students!#CommunityMVP 💪 pic.twitter.com/JSmHLfCCZH
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) August 15, 2022North America's Building Trades Unions:
“We’re one of the last places in the economy where someone coming out of high school can make $75k-$80k without a college degree in 3-5 years with no student debt… Yes, these programs ACTUALLY exist.” 👏🙌https://t.co/N6SFVbwvId
— The Building Trades (@NABTU) August 18, 2022Office and Professional Employees:
#FundTheNLRB https://t.co/qIN1jLNsQy
— OPEIU (@OPEIU) August 17, 2022Painters and Allied Trades:
Union apprenticeships like ours provide world-class education, free of charge, and you earn as you learn a skilled trade that provides family-sustaining wages and robust benefits.
If you're looking for a better way, come join us! pic.twitter.com/Ayz6nBwtSh
Plasterers and Cement Masons:
— OPCMIA International (@opcmiaintl) August 18, 2022Pride At Work:
Pride at Work is occupying the lobby of the Millenium Hotel in Minneapolis as @unitehere fights for a fair contract! @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/Qow0prcjFF
— Pride at Work (@PrideatWork) August 18, 2022Professional Aviation Safety Specialists:
PASS is proud to represent nearly 11,00 of these FAA 'bureaucrats': skilled, experienced aviation safety professionals serving their country and the American flying public! #aviationsafety #publicservice https://t.co/QhPDJfHGp5
— PASS (@PASSNational) August 17, 2022Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:
#tbt to when the first farmworkers in New York State unionized in October 2021 at Pindar Vineyards! Less than a year later, farmworkers at Paumanok and Palmer Vineyards in Aquebogue, NY have joined the @Local338 union family – and they certainly won’t be the last! pic.twitter.com/bBN63n2G8E
— RWDSU (@RWDSU) August 18, 2022Roofers and Waterproofers:
Overhead power lines put roofers at risk of electrocutions and falls. Learn more at: https://t.co/D8JelAN09b #roofersafety365 pic.twitter.com/bFq9mvIESc
— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) August 17, 2022SAG-AFTRA:
Happy birthday to the Sundance Kid, 1995 SAG Life Achievement Award recipient #RobertRedford. The actor, director, producer and philanthropist has also received an Academy Award, the Cecil B. DeMille Award and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. 🎂#BOTD pic.twitter.com/6IPzCWoIyJ
— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) August 18, 2022Seafarers:
The numbers behind the Jones Act https://t.co/rilo32smWj via @splash_247 #maritime #1u #JonesAct
— Seafarers Union (@SeafarersUnion) August 17, 2022Solidarity Center:
Funding for environmentally sustainable projects like silk production often doesn't address human costs involved in primary production in places like #Tajikistan. where women are subjected to weeks of harsh working conditions for meager pay. https://t.co/IyPNh97FLR
— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) August 18, 2022The NewsGuild-CWA:
— NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) August 17, 2022Theatrical Stage Employees:
#ThrowbackThursday to when Local 27 gathered for a crew shot after load in at First Energy Stadium for Machine Gun Kelly’s Cleveland concert. #behindthescenes pic.twitter.com/gWlTD2qJMM
— IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) August 18, 2022Transport Workers Union:
The grants recently awarded by @USDOT are a huge win for current and future Transport Worker Union members across the country. For the first time ever, these grants focus on worker training and development for all equipment purchased with these investments. https://t.co/S0WXYqctSW
— TWU (@transportworker) August 18, 2022Transportation Trades Department:
🔥 “After 16 years on the job, I should not have to worry if my career is safe when the railroads have made $146 billion in profit since 2015." https://t.co/0btpucSazs
— Transportation Trades Department (@TTDAFLCIO) August 18, 2022UAW:
The UAW commends President Joe Biden, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer for their leadership and perseverance throughout this lengthy process as it could not have happened without them. https://t.co/hyTQdE0fXA
— UAW (@UAW) August 12, 2022Union Label and Service Trades Department:
The Inflation Reduction Act lowers prescription drug prices, lowers health ins. premiums, invests in clean energy and creates jobs and economic opportunities for business and labor; reduces the deficit, and makes commonsense reforms to corp. tax code. https://t.co/e2KJNBqlik
— Union Label Dept. (@ULSTD_AFLCIO) August 8, 2022Union Veterans Council:
Today, we applaud @POTUS for signing the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring Our #PACTAct of 2022 into law: https://t.co/nxrkS3hNpD
— Union Veterans Council🪖✊ Pass the #PROAct (@unionveterans) August 10, 2022UNITE HERE:
UNITE HERE hospitality workers are putting Workers to the Front in the 2022 midterm elections.
Click here to get involved >> https://t.co/8W52Q3NYNc pic.twitter.com/Z42MKkl5fH
United Food and Commercial Workers:
NEW: @UNMC and UFCW release report based on one of the largest longitudinal #COVID19 studies with findings on:
✅ UFCW members’ COVID-19 infection rates;
✅ Employers’ workplace safety policies;
✅ Workers’ access to vaccinations & other critical resources.
Read now:
United Steelworkers:
Union votes to accept new 5-year collective bargaining agreement at Harley-Davidson York plant https://t.co/CLsmTlzaOU via @fox43
— United Steelworkers #EverybodysUnion (@steelworkers) August 18, 2022Utility Workers:
As utility workers, we’re proud to wake up every morning, put on our gear, and serve our communities by ensuring our families and neighbors have safe, reliable access to the utilities they need. #UnionProud pic.twitter.com/c3wLblbo5R
— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) August 17, 2022Working America:
A story about a normal American couple, undergoing the same medical procedure but differently priced, speaks to how unpredictable our healthcare system is. We need healthcare reform NOW. https://t.co/xNFzkoU3yW
— Working America | Pass the #PROAct (@WorkingAmerica) August 17, 2022Writers Guild of America, East:
Join the @WritersGuildF and @WGAWest tomorrow at 7pm ET (4pm PT) for Sublime Primetime 2022 – a celebration of the 2022 Emmy-Nominated writers for Outstanding Writing for a Drama Series & Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series.
Learn more & RSVP ⬇️https://t.co/trziycej0d
Freight Railroad Worker Stories: Luke Edington of SMART-TD
At a recent virtual U.S. Freight Railroad Worker Town Hall, Transportation Trades Department, AFL-CIO, (TTD) President Greg Regan introduced a group of workers who explained the challenges they've faced in their three-year fight for a new contract with U.S. freight railroad companies:
Since 2015, seven major railroad companies made $146 billion in net profits off the backs of these workers. That’s the most money they’ve ever made in the history of railroading—even more than the Gilded Era railroad robber barons. During this same time period, the companies eliminated 45,000 jobs from the industry. Instead of recognizing the value of these workers, the companies have enacted massive job cuts and offered the remaining workers a net pay cut and worse health care benefits than they have now. This is unacceptable.In the coming days, the AFL-CIO will share the stories of those workers. Check back here every day for more.
Today's story comes from Luke Edington, a member of the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (SMART) Transportation Division in Topeka, Kansas. In 2015, he was elected as a full-time officer of SMART-TD’s General Committee of Adjustment 953. As the general chairman, Edington represents conductors, brakemen, yardmen and engineers across the northern region of the Union Pacific Railroad, stretching from Chicago to Seattle.
Edington was hired as a switchman for the railroad in May 1998 and worked a variety of yard and road assignments throughout Nebraska and the surrounding states.
Edington said: “I have worked the majority of my years in the rail industry as a conductor on road extra boards. Most weeks, I would be home an average of 48 to 60 total hours. That’s all the time I would have to see my family and get rested for my next assignment. The balance of my time each week was spent on a train or in a hotel room while on layover.
“Unfortunately, the quality of life for rail workers today has deteriorated even more. In my union office, we deal with countless employees who are burned out, injured, or resigning because they can’t take the pressure Union Pacific has them under. Workers are tired, they have mental fatigue and body fatigue. Many are resigning because they just can’t take it anymore. The employees resigning aren’t brand new employees, they are veterans who have been in these jobs for 20 years or more. They have invested the majority of their adult life in the rail industry but are willing to let it go because they just can’t take the workload and stress the railroad is placing them under.
“Employee workloads have dramatically increased and they are constantly being pushed to increase production. The expectations from management are unrealistic and place employees in a no-win situation because, in most cases, it’s impossible to complete the volume of work they are given within their shift. To make matters worse, when they fall short of meeting management's inflated expectations, they are threatened with insubordination. This results in employees working long hours, including mandatory overtime hours, and little or no ability to take compensated days off due to manpower shortages.
“The railroad’s hiring plan for this year in the northern region doesn’t even cover the number of employees who have retired, resigned or were dismissed for minor rule violations. As a result, the remaining employees are expected to work more days and longer hours to pick up the slack. My members are professionals and take great pride in their work. They know their jobs inside and out and want to move freight and keep the nation’s supply chain flowing. They can’t do this with the current resources the railroads are providing. Railroading is a demanding job with a lot of responsibilities and these workers need a new contract that rewards and recognizes the hard work and sacrifice they’ve made during some very difficult times in our nation. We need a contract that makes these jobs competitive again and improves the quality of life for railroad workers in order to attract new employees to the industry.”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 08/19/2022 - 10:00Service + Solidarity Spotlight: BCTGM Members on Strike Against Corn Nuts
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.
Forty members of Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers (BCTGM) Local 85 have gone on strike at the Corn Nuts plant in Fresno, California. Workers who make the beloved snack food say that management is unilaterally changing their health care coverage by increasing deductions from workers’ paychecks, increasing deductibles and increasing maximum out-of-pocket expenses.
“We are on strike at Corn Nuts because the company is not bargaining in good faith,” said Local 85 Financial Secretary Jerry Gil. “The company is reluctant to reach an agreement, is surface bargaining and changing the terms and conditions of the workers’ medical plan without notifying the employees or bargaining with the union before making these drastic changes.”
Here’s how you can support the workers on strike:
- Join the picket line or drop off food, drinks and supplies at 4343 E Florence Ave., Fresno, CA.
- Email letters of encouragement directly to the strikeline organizer, Jerry Gil, so he can share them with workers: Jerry@BakersUnion85.com.
- Spread the word on social media by following BCTGM on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and use the hashtag #CornNutsStrike in your posts.
Freight Railroad Worker Stories: Kari Cecil of SMART-TD
At a recent virtual U.S. Freight Railroad Worker Town Hall, Transportation Trades Department, AFL-CIO, (TTD) President Greg Regan introduced a group of workers who explained the challenges they've faced in their three-year fight for a new contract with U.S. freight railroad companies:
Since 2015, seven major railroad companies made $146 billion in net profits off the backs of these workers. That’s the most money they’ve ever made in the history of railroading—even more than the Gilded Era railroad robber barons. During this same time period, the companies eliminated 45,000 jobs from the industry. Instead of recognizing the value of these workers, the companies have enacted massive job cuts and offered the remaining workers a net pay cut and worse health care benefits than they have now. This is unacceptable.In the coming days, the AFL-CIO will share the stories of those workers. Check back here every day for more.
Today's story comes from Kari Cecil, who works as a conductor in Galesburg, Illinois. She is a member of the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (SMART) Transportation Division.
Cecil said: “As a conductor, I work anywhere from 12 to 20 hours a day. I have no set schedule—and I work the weekends and holidays. I am at the mercy of the railroad. We are only supposed to work 12 hours, but management seems to forget that.
“The BNSF Hi-Viz attendance policy is the most egregious attendance policy we have seen. It allows no time off without penalty. It doesn’t allow us to spend time with our families or to make appointments for our own health and safety. Our last attendance policy was manageable, where we could spend some time with family, make some appointments, and pick and choose what we missed.
“Now, we just miss everything.
“Management has made it quite clear that they believe we are expendable. However, their profits are on our backs. We are out there working egregious schedules while they continue to stay home, make their appointments, and spend their time with their families."
