Get to Know AFL-CIO's Affiliates: AFT

This is the next post in our series that will take a deeper look at each of our affiliates. The series will run weekly until we've covered all 63 of our affiliates. Next up is the American Federation of Teachers (AFT).

Name of Union: American Federation of Teachers.

Mission: “The AFT is a union of professionals that champions fairness; democracy; economic opportunity; and high-quality public education, health care and public services for our students, their families and our communities. We are committed to advancing these principles through community engagement, organizing, collective bargaining and political activism, and especially through the work our members do.”

Current Leadership of Union: President Randi Weingarten has led the AFT through some of the most critical fights in its history—from the COVID-19 pandemic response to resisting political attacks on educators and championing real solutions for kids and communities. She is joined by Secretary-Treasurer Fedrick Ingram and Executive Vice President Evelyn DeJesus, both of whom bring powerful experience in the classroom, advocacy and organizing. Together, they lead a union of 1.8 million members united in purpose. 

Current Number of Members: 1.8 million

Members Work as: Teachers from prekindergarten through 12th grade; paraprofessionals and other school-related personnel; faculty and professional staff in higher education; nurses, doctors and other health care professionals; early childhood educators; and federal, state and local government employees. 

Industries Represented: Public schools, higher education, health care, and federal, state and local government.

History: Founded in Chicago in 1916 with eight local unions, the AFT rapidly expanded, chartering 174 locals within its first four years. Despite facing membership declines during the post-World War I era due to external pressures, the AFT remained steadfast in advocating for academic freedom and tenure protections. In the 1930s, the union played a pivotal role in supporting civil rights initiatives, including early efforts toward school desegregation.

The 1960s marked a period of significant activism for the AFT, with numerous teacher strikes aimed at securing improved compensation and working conditions, leading to a substantial increase in membership. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, the union emerged as a leader in education reform and the professionalization of teaching. By the 2000s, AFT membership surpassed 1 million, reflecting its growing influence. Under the leadership of President Weingarten, the AFT launched initiatives such as the AFT Innovation Fund and Share My Lesson, underscoring its commitment to innovation and collaboration in education. 

AFT members have been at the forefront of collective actions across the United States, achieving significant victories for educators, students and communities nationwide. In recent years, the AFT has led the charge on resisting political extremism in schools, standing up to book bans, defending teaching truth and fighting against the defunding of public services. The union helped win major education funding increases at the federal and state levels, and has grown its member engagement through campaigns like Reading Opens the World, Real Solutions for Kids and Communities, and Protect Our Kids. 

Current Campaigns: Protect Our Kids, a national organizing and advocacy campaign, aims to stop right-wing efforts to defund and dismantle public education, health care and support for kids. The campaign includes town halls, storytelling, paid and earned media, and grassroots mobilization leading up to the 2026 elections. Real Solutions for Kids and Communities is a proactive agenda focused on what students and families really need: safe, welcoming public schools, qualified teachers, mental health supports and strong community partnerships. Code Red mobilizes nurses and health professionals to fight for safe staffing, patient protections and funding for care—not cuts. Reading Opens the World is a literacy and equity campaign distributing free books to kids and families—10 million free books and counting—alongside book events, parent engagement and support for educators. AFTvotes is the AFT’s voter engagement, member mobilization and civic participation initiative for 2024–26, focused on defending democracy, expanding rights and electing leaders who support public education and workers.

Community Efforts: AFT’s Health Hub provides a wealth of information on health and safety topics for members. The AFT publishes American Educator, a journal of educational equity, research and ideas for early childhood through higher education; AFT Health Care, a journal on the health care system and the social, economic and environmental factors that affect individuals’ and communities’ health and well-being; and AFT Voices, a blog on Medium. President Weingarten speaks directly to AFT members with her blog, Randi’s Corner. The AFT discusses current issues in education on the Union Talk podcast.

Learn More: Website, Facebook, Bluesky, Instagram, X, YouTube

Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 04/14/2025 - 12:19

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Avelo Flight Dispatchers Vote to Join the TWU

Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

On Wednesday, flight dispatchers at Avelo Airlines voted to join the Transport Workers Union (TWU).

With their successful vote, workers at the ultra-low-cost airline based out of Houston, Texas, are joining the ranks of their peers at Alaska Airlines, Southwest Airlines and other airlines who are already represented by TWU. The newly minted union members are looking forward to negotiating a contract that will address quality-of-life issues and correct pay imbalances.

“Our immediate next step is to win that all-important first contract that will significantly improve the quality of life for Avelo Flight Dispatchers and their families,” said TWU International President John Samuelsen. “The TWU’s strength in organizing new work groups and bargaining game-changing contracts continues to pay off as more workers vote to join the TWU.”

Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 04/14/2025 - 09:30

Worker Wins: We Want Our Coworkers to Thrive

Our latest roundup of worker wins includes numerous examples of working people organizing, bargaining and mobilizing for a better life.

Juilliard Production Crew Workers Vote to Join IATSE: Production crew members at The Juilliard School voted overwhelmingly on Friday to form a union with the Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE). Workers at the private New York City performing arts conservatory perform essential production roles such as scenic shop crew, stagehands, costumers, and hair and makeup artists. The newly minted IATSE members took inspiration from exciting organizing efforts being championed by crew in the city’s off-Broadway community. The Juilliard Production Workers United logo includes a nod to the school’s beloved penguin mascot. “We know our work, and we know the demands of our shops,” said Lead Carpenter A.J. Coté. “We want our coworkers to thrive. I truly believe collectively we can represent ourselves better as a union. This is our livelihood; we deserve an equal part shaping it.”

Nurses at San Leandro and Alameda Hospitals Ratify New Contract: Members of the California Nurses Association/National Nurses United (CNA/NNU) who work at San Leandro and Alameda hospitals voted overwhelmingly last week to ratify a new five-year contract. This new deal brings over 380 registered nurses (RNs) across the two facilities under the same collective bargaining agreement. Major highlights of the contract include provisions that establish economic parity between nurses at each hospital, changes to scheduling practices that prioritize nurses who live and work in the community over nonunion travel nurses, meal break protections, and more. “Every single article of our contracts was up for negotiation and nurses upheld the high standards of care we’ve historically fought for,” said Linda Strack, RN, who works in the operating room at Alameda Hospital. “Because we remained united in our goal to improve nurse and patient health and safety, this landmark agreement raises the bar for the recruitment and retention of Bay Area nurses.” 

Austin-Based Bookstore Staff Win Powerful AI Protections: Staff at an independent bookstore in Austin, Texas, represented by Office and Professional Employees (OPEIU) Local 277, are celebrating new critical artificial intelligence (AI) safeguards in their collective bargaining agreement. A powerful 100% of voting BookPeople United members cast ballots to approve their new contract earlier this month. The deal included several important provisions, including the prohibition of replacing any worker or position at the storefront with AI. Workers said they fought to secure these protections after realizing that emergent technology like ChatGPT could potentially be used to destroy jobs at the storefront. “Making sure that we’re protecting jobs through this transition into this new tech world is the most important thing we can do,” said Texas AFL-CIO Communications Director Tara Pohlmeyer. “It’s setting a standard for a lot of other unions that workers at BookPeople were able to get this into their contract.”

Norse Atlantic Airways Flight Attendants Reach Tentative Agreement: U.S.-based flight attendants for Norse Atlantic Airways, who are represented by the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA-CWA), have reached a tentative agreement (TA) on their second-ever contract. The low-cost trans-Atlantic airline was founded in February 2021, and a few months later, AFA-CWA negotiated a pre-hire agreement with management ahead of the company’s launch that ensured industry-leading compensation and union membership once flight attendants demonstrated majority support. The Norse crew will begin voting on the new TA next week. “While our Flight Attendants continue to deliver critical services for Norse Atlantic, this tentative agreement builds on our historic pre-hire agreement and job security, the highest per diem in the industry, regular wage increases, and more benefits,” said Norse AFA President Katarzyna Mroczek.

Center for International Environmental Law Staff Secure Voluntary Recognition: Staff members at the Center for International Environmental Law (CIEL) are celebrating that management has voluntarily recognized the Washington-Baltimore News Guild (WBNG), The NewsGuild-CWA Local 32035 as their bargaining representative. The CIEL Unite bargaining unit covers workers across the United States and Switzerland. A supermajority of staff went public with their efforts to form a unit with WBNG back in February. With their attention now turned to beginning the negotiation process, members aim to win an agreement that protects staff and advances CIEL’s mission to protect the environment. “For over 35 years, CIEL has been at the forefront of advocating to ensure that human rights are at the cornerstone of environmental law,” said the CIEL Unite organizing committee. “CIEL’s staff are immensely proud of our work to defend our right to a healthy planet. We know our strength comes from a diverse, dynamic, international staff that believe in building long-term power, advancing justice, and ensuring representation for affected communities. Our union is grounded in these same principles. We look forward to working with CIEL leadership at the bargaining table and to finding creative solutions to advance core values of equity and justice, compassion, empathy, and respect.”

Faculty at Nevada State University Win Union Election: This week, faculty members at Nevada State University voted to join the Nevada Faculty Alliance, an affiliate of the American Association of University Professors (AAUP) and American Federation of Teachers (AFT). This is the fourth collective bargaining chapter of the Nevada Faculty Alliance, and academic workers voted to organize with a landslide vote of 104–8. Having prevailed through the election process, faculty are now eagerly turning their attention toward bargaining a fair and empowering contract with administrators. “This work could not have been done without the countless hours of organizing, research and outreach executed by faculty on our Collective Bargaining Organizing Committee,” said Andrew Lavengood-Ryan, lecturer of mathematics in the Department of Data, Media and Design. “I have had the distinct pleasure of working with and leading some of the most incredible people at Nevada State over the past year and half, and it is so fulfilling to see all of that work come together. We look forward to negotiating with NSU administration directly for a fair, collaborative contract that protects faculty needs.”

Minnesota Science Museum Workers Ratify Historic First Contract: After over 550 days of dedicated organizing efforts, members of AFSCME Council 5 who work at the Science Museum of Minnesota (SMM) are celebrating their first-ever union contract. Staff voted in January 2023 to form SMM Workers Union, a wall-to-wall bargaining unit that includes scientists, researchers, lab technicians, educators, customer service and more. Victories in the deal include substantial wage increases, new parental leave benefits, clear and enforceable job security protections, and longevity pay that rewards years of service. Despite leadership at the St. Paul museum instituting retaliatory layoffs directly after workers voted to join AFSCME and slow-walking bargaining, SMM Workers Union members stood strong and emerged victorious. “Management fought us at every turn,” said Jennings Mergenthal, a community engagement specialist. “But after 550 days, we won. Not just any contract—we won a fair contract. A contract that ensures a better future for museum workers and raises the standard for cultural institutions across the country.”

Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 04/11/2025 - 12:25

Tags: Organizing

Every Worker Deserves a Union: The Working People Weekly List

Every week, we bring you a roundup of the top news and commentary about issues and events important to working families. Here’s the latest edition of the Working People Weekly List.

Labor Leaders Fear Elon Musk and DOGE Could Gain Access to Whistleblower Files: “Liz Shuler, the president of AFL-CIO, claims that a number of Tesla workers have repeatedly alleged to the federation that safety isn’t prioritized at the car company. The AFL-CIO works with the United Automobile, Aerospace & Agricultural Implement Workers of America (UAW), but it does not represent employees at Tesla or SpaceX.”

Supreme Court Upholds Order Directing Trump Officials to Return Wrongly Deported Man: “The Supreme Court on Thursday backed a lower-court order requiring the Trump administration to ‘facilitate’ the release from custody of a Maryland man who was mistakenly deported to a mega-prison in El Salvador last month. Trump officials suspended a veteran Justice Department lawyer last weekend after he confirmed in court that Abrego García’s deportation was an oversight and said he had trouble getting answers himself about why the sheet metal apprentice and father of three was sent overseas. In an unusual filing on Monday, the government disavowed the in court comments of Erez Reuveni saying they ‘did not and do not reflect the position of the United States.’”

Hirono Reintroduces Bill to Protect Union Rights for Federal Workers: “‘Passing this legislation has never been more urgent—especially now, as federal workers face unprecedented attacks on their collective bargaining rights,’ said AFSCME President Lee Saunders. ‘We believe, as most Americans do, that every worker deserves a union—no matter who they work for. This bill is about something fundamental: respect. Respect for the public service workers who’ve devoted their careers to serving their communities. And respect means the freedom to negotiate.’”

'We Keep the Country Running': Federal Workers Rally in Pittsburgh for Union Rights: “The rally comes as unions representing federal workers have sued the Trump administration over a March executive order that seeks to end collective bargaining with federal unions in agencies with national security missions. The order impacts a litany of government agencies, including the Departments of State, Defense, Treasury, Veterans Affairs, Justice, Health and Human Services and Homeland Security, as well as the Food and Drug Administration, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, among others.”

Steelworkers Open Convention with Call for Action Against Trump Cuts: “AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Fred Redmond, the Steelworkers’ former vice president gave a rousing speech to the 3,000 USW delegates assembled here for their convention in which he called for labor to step up and play a leading role in the battle against Trump’s attempt to dismantle so much of what is important to U.S. workers. He said that the battle must involve solidarity across national lines, saying workers in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico ‘must unite against corporate greed. Attacks on everything that we stand for have been relentless,’ Redmond said of the GOP Trump regime’s anti-worker anti-union actions. He particularly singled out Musk’s chainsaw attacks, with Trump as his puppet, on federal workers and programs. ‘We are the voice of those who, today, feel hopeless,’ said Redmond.”

Democrats Unveil Legislation Raising Federal Minimum Wage to $17 an Hour: “Rep. Bobby Scott (D-VA) and Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) introduced the Raise the Wage Act of 2025 on Tuesday in both chambers with hopes of increasing the federal minimum wage. The bill would raise the minimum wage to $17 by 2030 according to the Economic Policy Institute. The current federally mandated hourly wage is $7.25 and has not increased since 2009.”

‘Hands Off’: Protesters Deliver a Sweeping Message to Trump and Musk at a D.C. Rally: “The crowd in Washington, D.C.—more than 100,000, per organizers’ estimates—was peaceful and orderly. On a stage behind the Washington Monument, lawmakers like Reps. Jamie Raskin (D-MD) and Maxwell Frost (D-FL) and organizers including AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler spoke. Attendees around them quietly listened, save for the occasional call-and-response chant, cheers, or boos for the Trump administration. Farther away, a group of protesters marched around the Monument chanting, ‘Hands Off! Dump Trump!’”

Massive Crowds, Estimated at Two Million, Take to Streets vs. MAGA: “AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler led several union presidents to the speaking stage just south of D.C.’s Washington Monument. Other union leaders spoke up at other marches elsewhere. ‘Stripping collective bargaining and union rights from workers across the federal government is the very definition of union busting—and a blatant attempt to silence us. We will fight this outrageous attack on our members with every fiber of our collective being,’ Shuler said.”

‘Everyone Is Angry, Frustrated’: AFL-CIO President Praises ‘Community’ and Energy of ‘Hands Off’ Protests: “In the largest rebuke of the second Trump administration so far, people in cities across the U.S. marched to voice their grievances against President Trump and Elon Musk. American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations President Liz Shuler shares her perspective on the rallies and how the Trump administration has inadvertently created new communities.”

Federal Worker Unions Sue to Block Trump from Stripping Bargaining Rights: “Officials at the American Federation of Government Employees, the largest federal union, which filed the countersuit on Friday, said the president’s move was among the most aggressive they had seen out of the White House so far, one that threatened collective bargaining rights across the work force. The AFGE alone represents 800,000 workers. The lawsuit called the order an act of retaliation against the union for pushing back against ‘both his agenda to decimate the federal work force and his broader agenda to fundamentally restructure the federal government through expansive and unprecedented exercises of executive authority.’”

Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 04/11/2025 - 12:13

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Illinois State University Faculty Union Secures Tentative Agreement

Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

On Friday, members of the United Faculty of Illinois State University (UFISU), which is affiliated with University Professionals of Illinois (UPI) Local 4100 and the Illinois Federation of Teachers (IFT), reached a tentative agreement and averted a strike.

The union represents tenured and tenure-track faculty at the institution, and this is their first collective bargaining agreement since securing recognition. Members held nearly 50 negotiation sessions with administrators to reach this deal, with details around pay being one of the remaining sticking points ahead of the final round of discussions on Friday.

“This agreement is going to be transformative for the way that our members take on their jobs,” said Keith Pluymers, an associate professor of history at Illinois State University (ISU) and a member of the bargaining team. “We have clarified and solidified a lot of the conditions of work that we have. In places where there was uncertainty, this contract is gonna provide certainty. We’ve worked to address a number of really longstanding issues at ISU. And we think this contract—it’s not gonna take care of everything, but we think this is a great start that’s gonna do a lot to ensure ISU is a great place to work moving forward.”

Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 04/11/2025 - 10:03

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Nurses at San Leandro and Alameda Hospitals Ratify New Contract

Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

Members of the California Nurses Association/National Nurses United (CNA/NNU) who work at San Leandro and Alameda hospitals voted overwhelmingly last week to ratify a new five-year contract.

This new deal brings over 380 registered nurses (RNs) across the two facilities under the same collective bargaining agreement. Major highlights of the contract include provisions that establish economic parity between nurses at each hospital, changes to scheduling practices that prioritize nurses who live and work in the community over nonunion travel nurses, meal break protections, and more.

“Every single article of our contracts was up for negotiation and nurses upheld the high standards of care we’ve historically fought for,” said Linda Strack, RN, who works in the operating room at Alameda Hospital. “Because we remained united in our goal to improve nurse and patient health and safety, this landmark agreement raises the bar for the recruitment and retention of Bay Area nurses.” 

Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 04/09/2025 - 08:58

Hands Off: In the States Roundup

It's time once again to take a look at the ways working people are making progress in the states. Click on any of the links to follow the state federations on X.

Alabama AFL-CIO:

https://t.co/dWqJcb1Em1

— Alabama AFL-CIO (@AlabamaAFLCIO) April 4, 2025

Alaska AFL-CIO:

We could not be more proud of Alaskans. Thousands of people, from Anchorage to Cordova and everywhere in between, hit the streets to send a clear message to Washington, DC: #HandsOff. This is what democracy looks like! #1u #UnionStrong #akleghttps://t.co/0OeRPS5a3O

— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) April 6, 2025

California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:

San Francisco is saying hell no! #HandsOff of our workers’ rights! When we fight, we win! pic.twitter.com/jurSM58Wzt

— California Federation of Labor Unions (@CaliforniaLabor) April 5, 2025

Colorado AFL-CIO:

Trump lost in Colorado by hundreds of thousands of votes. Overwhelmingly, we didn’t vote for his agenda. So why are @SenatorHick and @SenatorBennet voting with him so much? Workers are demanding answers. We need a town hall. pic.twitter.com/WKjMddFQ5r

— Colorado AFL-CIO ✊ (@AFLCIOCO) April 6, 2025

Connecticut AFL-CIO:

Solidarity action with the workers organizing a union at PetSmart in East Hartford! Thanks to everyone who came out, including support from State Representative @TomDelnicki! #1u pic.twitter.com/MM3q7ei6Vs

— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) April 6, 2025

Illinois AFL-CIO:

Our friends from Time of Day media are coming to town. Join us to learn how you can use paid advertising as a tool to fight back, mobilize workers and win campaigns.

🗓️ Thursday, April 24
🕐 4:30 PM 
📍 656 W. Randolph, 2W, Chicago

Registration:https://t.co/4TQkjnFr2U pic.twitter.com/Ub6xhwsmU2

— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) April 8, 2025

Maine AFL-CIO:

Democrats voted to reject a bill that would roll back the minimum wage law that Maine voters passed at the ballot box in 2016. The bill would eliminate cost-of-living increases. Here is a list of Maine companies that supported it. https://t.co/wf9AOLld9N

— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) April 4, 2025

Massachusetts AFL-CIO:

President @chrissylynch29 just joined @JessJTang from @AFTMass, Rich Couture from @AFGENational Co. 215, and thousands of Bostonians to send the Trump/Musk administration a clear message: #HandsOff Massachusetts, #HandsOff our workers, #HandsOff our #Unions! @AFLCIO #mapoli pic.twitter.com/WEFsCCiOFM

— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) April 5, 2025

Michigan State AFL-CIO:

How can you not be romantic about baseball? 

Especially when it's UNION BASEBALL.✊Join us on April 26th for UNION DAY with the @tigers! 🐅 https://t.co/FdghOXdLws

— Michigan AFL-CIO ✊ (@MIAFLCIO) April 7, 2025

Minnesota AFL-CIO:

Grocery workers need your support! Meet with @UFCW663 members at Lunds & Byerlys in Maple Grove TOMORROW, Tuesday, April 8th at 2:30pm to demand better wages, affordable healthcare, secure retirement, and protections for hours and transfers. #BetterInAUnion pic.twitter.com/dIPw5Vr25e

— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) April 7, 2025

Missouri AFL-CIO:

It's #ElectionDay, Missouri, let's get out and #Vote! Polls open until 7PM, don't miss your chance to make your voice heard. pic.twitter.com/nLMpR2kotm

— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) April 8, 2025

Nebraska State AFL-CIO:

NO Nebraskan should have to choose between their health and a paycheck. Nebraskans agree: 75% of us voted FOR Pd Sick Leave.
📷Sign the petition NOW to demand the #NEleg OPPOSE 📷LB415’s attempt to undermine access to paid sick leave: https://t.co/gcR5luXx8p pic.twitter.com/lUh9js7gig

— NE State AFL-CIO (@NEAFLCIO) April 2, 2025

Nevada State AFL-CIO:

Testified in strong support for Assembly Bill 414 this afternoon. 

It's disheartening that in 2025 we are trying to pass legislation that gives workers basic human working conditions where they aren't breathing harmful odors, or working in rooms that aren't air conditioned. pic.twitter.com/CCtgyj2YKn

— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) April 8, 2025

New York State AFL-CIO:

#HandsOff rally in Syracuse pic.twitter.com/mtLGnTRVrG

— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) April 5, 2025

Ohio AFL-CIO:

Support of Cascade East Transit workers on Friday, April 11, from 8-10 am. Some 100 members of @ATUComm Local 757 are fighting for a living wage in bargaining with the Central Oregon Intergovernmental Council. They are essential workers who deserve community support! pic.twitter.com/zde3sQ5Y7I

— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) April 8, 2025

Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:

We voted to keep Americans safe, not for reckless policies that put our communities at risk. Our government must prioritize the security and well-being of its people. pic.twitter.com/i1BKeYlyGU

— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) April 8, 2025

Texas AFL-CIO:

🚨 ACTION ALERT: On Wed., the Texas House State Affairs Committee will hold a hearing #HB1951 – an attack on Texas construction workers!

This is the sister bill to #SB925. Can you send your #txlege Representative an email now to tell them to vote NO? ⬇️ https://t.co/bvi4rsjEJR

— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) April 7, 2025

Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:

An injury to one is an injury to all. 

Click the link to take actions in support of Lelo and Lewelynhttps://t.co/DmdXI2kG8K pic.twitter.com/G9sbtQbM1N

— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) April 3, 2025

West Virginia AFL-CIO:

“The current actions are chaotic, disruptive, counterproductive and frankly wasteful.” #wvpol https://t.co/bb8TGFVXPA

— West Virginia AFLCIO (@WestVirginiaAFL) April 4, 2025

Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:

☎️📲CALL 844-896-5059: Restore and Protect Federal Collective Bargaining Rights Now. https://t.co/KvtRS8TLOk pic.twitter.com/18qVrEm5SI

— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) April 3, 2025

Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 04/08/2025 - 10:52

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Workers Around the Country Attend Hands Off Rallies

Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

Tens of thousands of people mobilized in cities across the country on Saturday for a nationwide protest against Donald Trump’s and Elon Musk’s attacks on federal workers and important social services. Union members and labor leaders participated in powerful marches and rallies to fight back against the billionaire takeover of our government.

“So, to every working person here, and everyone watching—I don’t care if you’re Democrat, Republican or Independent—do you want common sense from your government? Are you sick and tired of a government that is of and by and for billionaires? Are you ready to do something about it,” said AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler to attendees at the Washington, D.C., rally. “Our votes are not for sale! Our values are not for sale! Our rights and our freedoms are not for sale!”

Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 04/08/2025 - 09:18

Get to Know AFL-CIO's Affiliates

This is our series that will take a deeper look at each of our affiliates. The series will run weekly until we've covered all 63 of our affiliates.

Here's who we've featured so far:

• Actors' Equity (Equity)
• AFGE
• Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA)
• Musical Artists (AGMA)

Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 04/07/2025 - 11:59

Get to Know AFL-CIO's Affiliates: Air Line Pilots Association

This is the next post in our series that will take a deeper look at each of our affiliates. The series will run weekly until we've covered all 63 of our affiliates. Next up is the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA).

Name of Union: Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA).

Mission: The mission of ALPA is to promote and champion all aspects of aviation safety throughout all segments of the aviation community; to represent, in both specific and general respects, the collective interests of all pilots in commercial aviation; to assist in collective bargaining activities on behalf of all pilots represented by the association; to promote the health and welfare of the members of the association before all governmental agencies; to be a strong, forceful advocate of the airline piloting profession, through all forms of media, and with the public at large; and to be the ultimate guardian and defender of the rights and privileges of the professional pilots who are members of the association.

Current Leadership of Union: Capt. Jason Ambrosi was elected as ALPA’s 12th president on Oct. 19, 2022. He brings 25 years of ALPA experience to the job. He flies the Boeing 767 ER at Delta Air Lines. He began his airline flying career at Atlantic Southeast Airlines, a former Delta Connection carrier and regional airline. Delta hired him in 2000, just 18 months prior to the 9/11 terrorist attacks, and he was among the many pilots furloughed after the attacks. While on furlough, Ambrosi worked for a charter airline, where he advocated for labor representation and helped build a strong safety culture. He has a Bachelor of Science in aeronautical science from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and lives in Griffin, Georgia, with his wife, Heather, and their two children.

Capt. Wendy Morse serves as ALPA’s first vice president. Capt. Sean Creed is the organization’s vice president—administration/secretary. Capt. Wes Clapper is the vice president—finance/treasurer. Capt. Steve Mayer serves as executive administrator.

Current Number of Members: 79,000.

Members Work As: Airline pilots.

Industries Represented: The airline industry in the United States and Canada. ALPA serves as the bargaining agent for pilot groups from 42 commercial airlines, including both passenger and cargo operations.

History: As the 1920s concluded, life for airline pilots was difficult and dangerous, with many companies treating this employee group like an expendable commodity. Many airline pilots died in aircraft accidents during this period.

In 1931, pilots in the United States came together to form the first professional union of pilots, ALPA, to promote aviation safety and give these flyers a greater voice in their workplace. During World War II, the union began advocating for the creation of an independent safety board, which finally took shape in the 1960s, after decades of work.

After the war, ALPA banded together with pilot unions from around the world to form the International Federation of Air Line Pilots’ Associations (IFALPA) to influence international travel and safety standards.

With new technological advances in air transportation, ALPA created an air safety structure to fight for crew fatigue rules and rest requirements, along with other safety priorities. The association began working with aircraft manufacturers to improve cockpit features. In addition, the rise of terrorist attacks on aircraft represented a new safety concern for ALPA, identifying the need for greater security measures.

The Airline Deregulation Act of 1978 also changed the landscape for the airline industry, reinventing the way airlines conducted business but also introducing a new wave of safety concerns. ALPA continued to fight to make the skies safer and achieved numerous victories (including securing mandated “fasten seatbelt” signs in aircraft cabins and policies such as a nationwide anti-skyjacking strategy, which was adopted by federal regulators).

The 9/11 terrorist attacks revitalized the need to revisit security, and ALPA responded, successfully pushing for programs to provide more thorough screening of passengers and cargo.

Decades of hard work on air safety concerns also paid off, as the total number of airline accidents in the United States and Canada dropped by more than 70% in the decade ending in 2007.

These and other accomplishments in recent years have not diminished the union’s focus on safety and security, with top priorities including science-based fatigue rules for all airline pilots, improved pilot training and professionalism, and the safe integration of commercial space vehicles and remotely piloted aircraft (such as drones) into civil airspace.

On the collective bargaining front, ALPA continues to promote a system of pattern bargaining to ensure that its members receive fair pay and benefits for the services they perform, safe and reasonable working conditions, and a better quality of life.

Current Campaigns: Safety Starts with Two is a global pilot initiative, co-led by ALPA, that is working to prevent airlines and manufacturers from pushing ahead with plans to remove pilots from the flight deck—a profit-driven scheme that poses a significant safety risk. Jumpseat works to establish guidelines and fairness in the use of airplane jump seats. Cleared to Dream recruits new pilots into the industry. Trained for Life focuses on training and expertise in order to reduce airline-related death and injury. ALPA fights to maintain pilot staffing levels, prevent airlines from taking advantage of regulatory loopholes, protect U.S. airlines from unfair business practices, mitigate fatigue among cargo pilots, improve security through mandated flight deck barriers and modernize the national airspace for new entrants.

Community Efforts: Pilots for Pilots helps ALPA members and their families who have been harmed by natural disasters. ALPA publishes Air Line Pilot magazine.

Learn More: Website, Facebook, YouTube

You can also check out this video to learn more about ALPA’s history:

Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 04/07/2025 - 10:30

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Faculty at Nevada State University Win Union Election

Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

This week, faculty members at Nevada State University voted to join the Nevada Faculty Alliance, an affiliate of the American Association of University Professors (AAUP) and American Federation of Teachers (AFT).

This is the fourth collective bargaining chapter of the Nevada Faculty Alliance, and academic workers voted to organize with a landslide vote of 104–8. Having prevailed through the election process, faculty are now eagerly turning their attention toward bargaining a fair and empowering contract with administrators.

“This work could not have been done without the countless hours of organizing, research and outreach executed by faculty on our Collective Bargaining Organizing Committee,” said Andrew Lavengood-Ryan, lecturer of mathematics in the Department of Data, Media and Design. “I have had the distinct pleasure of working with and leading some of the most incredible people at Nevada State over the past year and half, and it is so fulfilling to see all of that work come together. We look forward to negotiating with NSU administration directly for a fair, collaborative contract that protects faculty needs.”

Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 04/07/2025 - 09:18

AFL-CIO on March Jobs Report

In response to the March jobs report showing that unemployment is rising, Candace Archer, AFL-CIO Policy Director, released the following statement released the following statement:

The March numbers released today don’t tell the whole story of the state of jobs in our country. The Trump administration’s attacks on the federal workforce and reckless economic policies are causing unemployment to continue to rise  and threaten to destroy the strong economy that this administration inherited 

While there has been strong growth in health care jobs, this could all be undone by Congress cutting Medicaid to pay for another tax giveaway to billionaires. Medicaid cuts would devastate our health care system and workers across the sector are holding their breath, waiting for their jobs to disappear.   The still strong job numbers don’t reflect how uncertain things actually are for the working people of this country. The March jobs report doesn’t include the tens of thousands of federal workers DOGE has put out of work but remain in limbo on administrative leave or may get reinstated and refired, as Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. indicated just this week. And some estimates suggest as many as 275,240 workers were laid off last month, 60% more than February and 205% more than this time last year. 

For working people who are just trying to get through their shifts, feed their families, and get their kids to school, this chaos is the last thing they need. It’s not too late to reverse course and stop unemployment from continuing to rise. We call on members of Congress and all those who stand with working people to join us in the fight and stop these attacks. 

Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 04/04/2025 - 17:43

Victory in Wisconsin: The Working People Weekly List

Every week, we bring you a roundup of the top news and commentary about issues and events important to working families. Here’s the latest edition of the Working People Weekly List.

AFL-CIO Raises Concerns over Cuts to NIOSH Workforce: “AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler condemned the Trump administration's decision to eliminate nearly 900 jobs at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), calling the move ‘devastating’ for worker safety. ‘Every worker should be able to go home safe and healthy at the end of their shift—but the Trump administration is gutting NIOSH,’ Shuler said in a statement.” 

New Museum in Pullman to Recognize Women’s Role in Labor Movement: “A. Philip Randolph set the stage for the Civil Rights Movement by forming and leading the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters in 1925, which 10 years later became the first African American labor union to be affiliated with the American Federation of Labor. The contributions of Randolph and those he represented are highlighted in a museum in Chicago’s Pullman neighborhood, the historic home of the country’s largest sleeping car company. Now a new effort is afoot to recognize an often-overlooked element of that effort. Randolph’s success at organizing a union that would represent thousands of workers all over the United States rested squarely upon the efforts of women such as Rosina Corrothers Tucker.” 

‘Hands Off’ Protest: April 5 Could See Massive Turnout for Rallies Against Trump and Musk in All 50 States. Here’s What to Know: “The protests are organized by Indivisible, a grassroots movement aimed at rebuilding democracy and defeating Trump, which is partnering with a broad coalition of groups including: the Women’s March, the United Federation of Teachers, Public Citizen, the Progressive Democrats of America, Common Cause, the Human Rights Campaign, MoveOn, the League of Women Voters, Planned Parenthood and some unions, including AFL-CIO, UAW and the Service Employees International Union (SEIU).” 

AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Fred Redmond Talks About Attacks on Organized Labor and Why Union Members Voted for Trump: “Fred Redmond, national secretary-treasurer of the AFL-CIO, was in town Saturday, March 29, for a rally at the Gateway Arch, hosted by AFGE and the AFL-CIO, protesting President Donald Trump’s attacks on the federal workforce and recent executive order stripping federal workers of their collective bargaining rights. Before the rally began, Redmond sat down for an interview with the Labor Tribune, discussing the administration’s actions, fighting back and why some union members voted for Trump. Following is an edited version of the interview.” 

2025 Wisconsin Supreme Court race; Susan Crawford Defeats Brad Schimel: “Wisconsin AFL-CIO President Stephanie Bloomingdale: ‘Congratulations to Judge Susan Crawford for her victory and congratulations to the entire Wisconsin labor movement that proudly stood by her every step of the way.’” 

SAG-AFTRA’s Duncan Crabtree-Ireland on How Consumers Can Support Video Game Actors Strike as It Nears 250-Day Mark: “The SAG-AFTRA strike against major video game companies has nearly reached the 250-day mark, and there’s no deal yet. And while nothing seems to have changed from the outside, real progress is being made behind the scenes.” 

Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 04/04/2025 - 11:45

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Minnesota Science Museum Workers Ratify Historic First Contract

Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

After over 550 days of dedicated organizing efforts, members of AFSCME Council 5 who work at the Science Museum of Minnesota (SMM) are celebrating their first-ever union contract.

Staff voted in January 2023 to form SMM Workers Union, a wall-to-wall bargaining unit that includes scientists, researchers, lab technicians, educators, customer service and more. Victories in the deal include substantial wage increases, new parental leave benefits, clear and enforceable job security protections, and longevity pay that rewards years of service. Despite leadership at the St. Paul museum instituting retaliatory layoffs directly after workers voted to join AFSCME and slow-walking bargaining, SMM Workers Union members stood strong and emerged victorious.

“Management fought us at every turn,” said Jennings Mergenthal, a community engagement specialist. “But after 550 days, we won. Not just any contract—we won a fair contract. A contract that ensures a better future for museum workers and raises the standard for cultural institutions across the country.”

Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 04/04/2025 - 09:42

Tags: Organizing

EVENT ALERT: Join Us in Saying Hands Off Our Unions!

On April 5, workers are joining with our allies and community members across the country to tell President Trump and Elon Musk: Hands Off Our Unions! 

On Friday, the Trump administration took its most blatantly anti-worker, anti-union action yet: an executive order stripping the right to organize from hundreds of thousands of federal workers.

This is union-busting, plain and simple, and we won’t stand for it.

This Saturday, America’s unions are coming together with allies of labor at hundreds of events all across the country to send a message: Hands off our Social Security. Hands off our public schools. Hands off our Medicare. Hands off our jobs. And hands off our unions and our contracts!

Will you join us at a Hands Off event near you? 

It’s clear that their executive order is punishment for unions that are leading the fight against the administration’s illegal actions in court and in the streets—and a blatant attempt to silence us.  

So now is the time to be even louder. 

On April 5, events will be happening all across the country, in major cities and small towns. Take a stand for our federal workers, the government services that we all rely on and our fundamental freedoms—including the freedom to join a union. 

Find an event near you, and join this mass movement of workers and allies who are speaking out. 

We’ll see you there!

Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 04/03/2025 - 10:08

We Build Futures: 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:

Today we shine a spotlight on Dallas Children's Theatre for stepping up their support for union actors and stage managers! Explore more #EquityWorks tales in The Organizing Voice. Check out the member portal for details. https://t.co/vjq4GPNjve pic.twitter.com/z5WHWnAqRf

— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) April 3, 2025

AFGE:

(1/3) The recent mass layoffs at HHS affecting employees at the CDC, FDA, and other federal health agencies are dangerous, irresponsible, and unacceptable. https://t.co/mVVOBAGMYB

— AFGE (@AFGENational) April 1, 2025

AFSCME:

The AFSCME Cultural Workers United victories continue! ICYMI, workers at the Science Museum of Minnesota made HISTORY winning their first-ever contract. After 550 days of fighting, the 3-year contract includes meaningful wage increases, new parental leave benefits & more. pic.twitter.com/kzv3c1pQC7

— AFSCME (@AFSCME) April 2, 2025

Alliance for Retired Americans:

BREAKING: Elon Musk and DOGE are "undermining the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) technology and operations," according to a former White House official. https://t.co/CfvxXFHUKi

— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) April 2, 2025

Amalgamated Transit Union:

Our Local 265-San Jose, CA, VTA members are fighting for a fair contract and the their right to strike. #1u #SanJose #UnionStrong https://t.co/WflheHqn2Y

— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) April 3, 2025

American Federation of Musicians:

Statement from AFM President Tino Gagliardi on the Federal Collective Bargaining Executive Order:
The American Federation of Musicians condemns the Trump Administration’s latest assault on working people. Friday’s attempt at stripping federal employees of their collective…

— AFM (@The_AFM) April 1, 2025

American Federation of Teachers:

Organizing is how we ensure strong workplaces and universities that serve students and the community. We're excited to welcome the NFA-NSU to the AFT family! pic.twitter.com/AlzQdif45Z

— AFT (@AFTunion) April 3, 2025

American Postal Workers Union:

Truthout reports on a leaked Wells Fargo document advising the Administration to sell off the most profitable parts of the service – primarily packages and parcels, while putting taxpayers on the hook for the rest. Make no mistake, such a move would lead to mass layoffs, and…

— The American Postal Workers Union - APWU (@APWUnational) April 2, 2025

Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:

This year’s 52nd Annual Board of Directors Meeting will be held on 4/5/2025 in Orlando, FL. AFA LEC Presidents from each of our 20 AFA represented airlines, MEC Officers, International Officers, and members will join together for an in-person meeting. pic.twitter.com/465BPAagyZ

— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) April 1, 2025

Boilermakers:

ICYMI: Boilermakers met for training sponsored by MOST. Learn more about the MOST Project Management course. https://t.co/W3GOwhB0MQ pic.twitter.com/DSQOAMO10V

— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) April 2, 2025

Bricklayers:

BAC MAP recognizes World Bipolar Disorder Day as a time to increase education and sensitivity to bipolar disorder while offering support to our members. 

Connect with MAP by calling 1-833-MAP-TALK (M-F, 8am-7pm ET) or visit https://t.co/KRzryUdQWS pic.twitter.com/YgNoCGb3XS

— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) March 30, 2025

Communications Workers of America:

Breaking! Video Game Workers Vote to Authorize Strike at Microsoft. https://t.co/nBsphPmZl6

— CWA (@CWAUnion) April 1, 2025

Department for Professional Employees:

We’re collecting stories from union members in the arts, entertainment, and media industries whose taxes increased after the 2017 tax law to show why we need PATPA. If you were impacted and want to share your story, fill out the form linked: https://t.co/dsut8rmvgR pic.twitter.com/1EPfmuVOHh

— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) April 1, 2025

Electrical Workers:

"There is no greater demand right now than ensuring that every construction project is built by skilled #IBEW men and women. And it is the responsibility of every IBEW leader from the local level on up to make it happen." https://t.co/9JZHBnx7jf pic.twitter.com/xQBNxt3V28

— IBEW (@IBEW) April 2, 2025

Fire Fighters:

🔥Is your fire department looking to enhance its skills in #HazMat training? 

The #IAFF is currently accepting sign-ups for its hazardous materials training until April 30. 📅

To learn more, visit https://t.co/Ig3aaDZdOT.

— International Association of Fire Fighters (@IAFFofficial) April 1, 2025

Heat and Frost Insulators:

Diving deeper with Local 132 🐠
For members of Local 132 out of Honolulu, Hawaii, their time-honored tradition of spearfishing has worked to strengthen their teamwork & dedication that defines their local. 

Read more about Local 132’s adventures in our Spring Journal — digital… pic.twitter.com/QBm6CArCKu

— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) March 28, 2025

International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers:

IFPTE condemns in the strongest possible terms the Trump Administration's clearly illegal attempt to eliminate collective bargaining rights for hundreds of thousands of federal workers, including thousands of IFPTE-represented members. https://t.co/nffWmnTGun

— IFPTE (@IFPTE) March 28, 2025

International Labor Communications Association:

📢 The 2025 Labor Media Awards are NOW OPEN! Labor communicators, submit your 2024 work to be considered for the contest NOW thru July 1! Learn more about eligibility and awards categories here: https://t.co/kgaMDbU7se pic.twitter.com/h1oR8bwRJm

— International Labor Communications Association (@ILCAonline) March 26, 2025

Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:

🚨 LCLAA stands in solidarity with @AFGE and the thousands of federal workers under attack by anti-union policies.

— LCLAA (@LCLAA) March 29, 2025

Labor Heritage Foundation:

🎬✊ Alamo Drafthouse workers in Austin (Slaughter Lane) are organizing with @UAW as SlaughterHouse United! After sudden layoffs & poor conditions, they're demanding respect, fair pay & a voice on the job. #UnionStrong #BoldlyGo #SlaughterHouseUnited https://t.co/OOYXVoL7mD pic.twitter.com/uI5N1VKmBR

— Labor Heritage (@LaborHeritage1) April 1, 2025

Laborers:

#TBT to 121 years of POWER.
We don’t just build roads—we build futures.
We don’t just raise walls—we raise communities.
We don’t just show up—we lead.#LIUNA is BUILT to RISE.
From job sites to food drives, from highways to housing—we get it DONE.

Join the movement. Make a… pic.twitter.com/aFQwP8gTG8

— LIUNA (@LIUNA) April 3, 2025

Maritime Trades Department:

Wave of Support Voiced for Jones Act@US_TRANSCOM https://t.co/RZgIOzTKUb

— Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO (@Maritime_Trades) March 26, 2025

Metal Trades Department:

Thank you to the bipartisan group of legislators who recognize the Jones Act's importance to our economic and national security. We must always protect this important legislation.

— Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) March 27, 2025

Mine Workers:

“There is a perfect storm brewing in America’s coalfields that will have the effect of destroying thousands of coal miners’ jobs and significantly increase the risks those miners who are left will face to their health and safety on the job."https://t.co/K9QBxHVSid

— United Mine Workers (@MineWorkers) April 1, 2025

National Air Traffic Controllers Association:

NATCA Runway Safety Rep. Bridget Singratanaku recently led a panel with Alex Gersten at the @NBAA Orlando Regional Forum on Elevating Runway & Surface Safety. pic.twitter.com/EuD6vZ13TQ

— NATCA (@NATCA) April 3, 2025

National Association of Letter Carriers:

The USPS, established by the Constitution, has always been a vital public service. All these years later, its mission to provide universal mail service to the nation remains a fundamental constitutional commitment. As letter carriers, we intend to honor and protect that… pic.twitter.com/PAlgkLPwRi

— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) April 1, 2025

National Domestic Workers Alliance:

Kingia, a home care worker & member leader from Georgia, was honored by the Democratic Women’s Caucus for her advocating efforts! 

Home care workers who care for our loved ones are the heart of this country. Supporting them means fighting to protect programs like Medicaid. pic.twitter.com/m7pDg4YJC5

— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) April 2, 2025

National Nurses United:

Mass layoffs at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) put workers and patients at risk! 

Nurses are fighting back – we won’t let them put profits over protection!https://t.co/imap3X0VHt

— NationalNursesUnited (@NationalNurses) April 2, 2025

NFL Players Association:

“If you have the ability to help, you should help” 🤝
NFLPA Alan Page Community Award winner & @Giants WR Darius Slayton embodies this spirit through his Left-Hand Right-Hand Foundation, showing that who you are is about more than the sport you play. 
🔗: https://t.co/VpIpRpc44Z pic.twitter.com/9D04NpJ9cA

— NFLPA (@NFLPA) April 1, 2025

North America's Building Trades Unions:

C- isn’t gonna cut it. Union hands are ready to turn that grade around. Let’s get to work.https://t.co/zRHsRgiOHN

— The Building Trades (@NABTU) April 1, 2025

Office and Professional Employees:

This week’s #WomensHistoryMonth spotlight is Criselle Garrido of OPEIU Local 29! Garrido and her co-workers recently won their first union contract at the Alameda County Community Food Bank, where she serves as shop steward. pic.twitter.com/BNrPPUJw4A

— OPEIU | #UnionStrong (@OPEIU) March 31, 2025

Painters and Allied Trades:

Our workers at SureBuilt fear for their safety daily– from recent fires to severed fingers from unsafe machinery. This must stop!

Take action now and ask SureBuilt to recognize our workers' union and commit to bargaining in good faith: https://t.co/VF1XXKC1Pd pic.twitter.com/5wPwJXLgVm

— IUPAT (@GoIUPAT) March 28, 2025

Professional Aviation Safety Specialists:

Thank you @RepBrownley for meeting with @PASSprezdc Spero yesterday. Your work on @TransportDems Aviation Subcommittee critical to ensure employees we represent @FAANews have resources needed to safeguard American flying public. #aviationsafety #publicservice #federalemployees pic.twitter.com/JEFKqmi8fF

— PASS (@PASSNational) March 27, 2025

Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:

On this #TransDayofVisibility, we reaffirm our commitment to fighting alongside our trans union siblings. Say it loud, say it proud: trans rights are workers’ rights. PERIOD! #TDOV #TDOV25 pic.twitter.com/0Uk5anmSj8

— RWDSU (@RWDSU) March 31, 2025

Roofers and Waterproofers:

The National Safety Stand-Down to Prevent Falls is May 5-9! Visit https://t.co/Gg9Pj5HIDW for everything you need to conduct a stand-down. While you're there, don't forget to order FREE hardhat stickers and hazard alert cards for your stand-down #roofersafety365 pic.twitter.com/c0ZyfLcNjO

— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) April 2, 2025

SAG-AFTRA:

Thank you to the #SagAftraMembers, friends, family and allies who joined us on the #VideoGameStrike picket line at Formosa Interactive LLC! 🪧 Your #SagAftraStrong solidarity is powerful! We are stronger together! #LevelUpTheContract pic.twitter.com/EgbuvSI7bN

— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) April 3, 2025

Service Employees International Union (SEIU):

🚨 50,000 LA fast food workers just scored a big win! This is what worker power looks like! #FastFoodFairWork https://t.co/ANUjm2wVEP

— SEIU (@SEIU) April 2, 2025

Solidarity Center:

💪🏿 A real example of collective action at work 💪🏿

Our partners the Firestone Agricultural Workers Union of Liberia-FAWUL secured wage increases & improvements to working conditions for it's 3,000 members. Tap the 🤍 to congratulate them on this major worker win!#Solidarity#1u pic.twitter.com/V2pn6daTjt

— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) April 2, 2025

The NewsGuild-CWA:

(Members Only): We’re holding an emergency all-hands national membership meeting to defend a free press. Workers, unions, and journalists are under attack—and we're fighting back.

🗓️ Thursday, April 10 at 8 p.m. ET
🔗 https://t.co/qICtoM5ve5 pic.twitter.com/EDpb8ZK0XC

— The NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) April 2, 2025

Theatrical Stage Employees:

. @EncoreGlobal_'s corporate greed has got to go!! 📢

Encore overhire workers in Philadelphia have not seen ANY wage increases since the expiration of their agreement in 2021! 

These workers are the backbone of conferences and events in Philly. Without their skills, the lights… pic.twitter.com/37YmNjvtAi

— IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) April 2, 2025

Transport Workers Union:

. @TWULocal100 Pres. John Chiarello and International Pres. ⁦@TwuSamuelsen⁩ holding a moment of silence at the 207th St. Overhaul Shop for Car Inspector, Khurshid Anwer, who died on the job yesterday of an apparent heart attack. Rest In Peace. pic.twitter.com/ZgCCng3Q2O

— TWU (@transportworker) April 3, 2025

Transportation Trades Department:

The Transportation Trades Department, AFL-CIO was founded on April 2, 1990. We are grateful to be a voice for frontline transportation workers in the nation's capital, and will continue fighting for them every single day. pic.twitter.com/NixyUZnkSE

— TTD | America's Transportation Unions (@TTDAFLCIO) April 2, 2025

UAW:

Daimler Truck said our members were crazy for thinking they could get a cut of the profits they make with their labor, but workers defied the odds and proved the naysayers wrong. By standing strong and building a credible strike threat, our UAW Daimler family won profit-sharing… pic.twitter.com/ODoqI8Kdx1

— UAW (@UAW) April 3, 2025

UNITE HERE:

In these uncertain times, it’s important to be prepared for anything. Knowing your rights is the first step in protecting yourself and your coworkers. pic.twitter.com/v0oEKAQb78

— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) April 2, 2025

United Food and Commercial Workers:

Over 2,000 members of Local 832 at the Maple Leaf Foods plant have ratified a new STRONG contract!

Together, workers won:
✅Increases to hourly wages.
✅30% increase to shift-premiums.
✅Improved overtime flexibility.
✅Improved benefits and pension.

➡️ https://t.co/SxsvjezA4q pic.twitter.com/CddbACbLDK

— UFCW (@UFCW) April 2, 2025

United Steelworkers:

🔥 Are you All In? 🔥 

If you’re representing your local at our constitutional convention next week in Las Vegas, share this post! Let us know you’re coming and what you are most excited about! pic.twitter.com/yTWuV20NNV

— United Steelworkers #EverybodysUnion (@steelworkers) April 3, 2025

Utility Workers:

Check out the firsthand accounts from UWUA members that offer a glimpse into the diverse responsibilities, challenges, and rewards of working in public works across various municipalities.https://t.co/64EKKraHvV pic.twitter.com/G2oBeE11zA

— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) April 2, 2025

Working America:

We applaud all those who defend collective bargaining rights, including @RepBrianFitz and his colleagues in the House. Thank you for calling on President Trump to reverse his decision to take those rights from federal workers. https://t.co/O4eJV1B1Yv

— Working America (@WorkingAmerica) April 2, 2025

Writers Guild of America East:

We’re helping workers across nonfiction production win consistent pay increases, better health insurance, job security, overtime pay & more. #UnionStrong

Get connected with one of our organizers: https://t.co/7yJf6SrQOI pic.twitter.com/oYU6FMH2RA

— Writers Guild of America East (@WGAEast) March 26, 2025

Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 04/03/2025 - 10:02

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: ATU Members Reach 3-Year Deal with Denver Regional Transportation District

Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 1001 members and the Denver Regional Transportation District (RTD) reached a tentative labor deal that will mean significant raises for the transit agency’s bus drivers, mechanics and other front-line workers. A bulletin posted to the ATU Local 1001’s website said the 15.5% raise over three years is 1.5% higher than what RTD had offered.

“Thanks to the ATU 1001 Membership standing up, showing up, and letting RTD hear from them, there was movement,” the bulletin said.

The members of ATU Local 1001 still need to vote to approve the contract.

Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 04/03/2025 - 09:52

Worker Wins: We Did This Together

Our latest roundup of worker wins includes numerous examples of working people organizing, bargaining and mobilizing for a better life.

Journalists Secure First Contract at Wisconsin Nonprofit News Outlet: Milwaukee NewsGuild-CWA (TNG-CWA) Local 34051-represented journalists at Wisconsin Watch ratified their first union contract on Friday. Members of the Wisconsin Watch Union unanimously voted to accept the agreement after more than a year of negotiations. Highlights of the deal include higher salary minimums, annual cost of living increases, remote work protections, expanded leave and more. “We did this together,” said Phoebe Petrovic, investigative reporter and an initial Wisconsin Watch Union organizer, in a TNG-CWA press release. “We’ll continue to do great journalism knowing our workplace is more structured, secure and protected.”

UNITE HERE Members at Philadelphia Stadiums Reach Tentative Agreements: After a series of historic strikes, UNITE HERE Local 274 members who staff concession stands at major sports venues in Philadelphia have won tentative agreements (TAs) with their employer, Aramark. The most recent contract covering food service workers at the Lincoln Financial Field, Citizens Bank Park and the Wells Fargo Center expired in March 2024. The TAs ensure a $20 an hour wage floor for nontipped workers—which will increase again to $29 in 2029—expanded health care coverage, more paid holidays and other hard-fought victories. “We fought hard for this contract. No department was left behind. We stuck together and that's why we were able to set a new standard for Aramark workers and stadium workers,” said Sam Spector, who works as a club attendant and bartender at all three complexes, in a Local 274 press release. “I went years without health insurance. This is a big deal that stadium food service workers will be able to qualify for healthcare.”

Nurses at Wynn Hospital in New York Ratify Contract: Members of the New York State Nurses Association (NYSNA), an affiliate of National Nurses United (NNU), who work at Mohawk Valley Health System (MVHS)—Wynn Hospital voted overwhelmingly to ratify a new collective bargaining agreement last week. MVHS was created via a 2014 merger between the former Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare and the former St. Elizabeth Medical Center—after which nurses at both facilities combined their bargaining units under NYSNA. The medical center moved to its current location in downtown Utica in 2023, and staff have reported persistent staffing issues. This marks the first contract between the union and MVHS. Highlights of the deal include across-the-board pay raises (with retroactivity dating back to Jan. 1 of this year), wage increases to retain experienced nurses, improved safe staffing enforcement and more. “Over the last few months, nurses have been fighting for a contract that ensures the hospital have a plan to recruit and retain nurses to ensure safe patient care,” said NYSNA President Nancy Hagans. “This contract is a win for nurses and a win for the future of healthcare in Utica. Now we need the rest of Central New York to follow suit to ensure that ALL patients in New York receive the best care possible.”   

Ohio University Faculty Overwhelmingly Vote to Form Union: After a yearslong organizing campaign, faculty members at Ohio University are celebrating a powerful victory in their election to form the United Academics of Ohio University (UAOU), which is affiliated with the American Association of University Professors (AAUP) and the American Federation of Teachers (AFT). Of the staff who voted, over 70% cast a ballot in favor of organizing, according to the State Employment Relations Board. While the petition to join UAOU was filed in March 2024, faculty have been discussing a union four years prior after dozens of their colleagues were fired during the COVID-19 pandemic. As they turn their attention to bargaining, members are hoping to secure a contract with improved job security, fair pay and a stronger collective voice at work. “I am so proud to be part of OU faculty coming together to vote yes for our union,” said Rachel Terman, an associate professor in sociology. “I am looking forward to a faculty union that works with the administration to do what is best for students, faculty and higher education in Ohio and particularly Southeast Ohio. The work to get to this point hasn’t been easy, but the persistence and patience of OU faculty are a testament to our professional dedication.”

Unifi Aviation Ramp Workers Vote to Join IAM: Ramp workers at Unifi Aviation in Cleveland have overwhelmingly voted to join the Machinists (IAM). These staff are critical to daily operations at airports, with responsibilities like loading and unloading planes, handling baggage, directing planes to gates, and more. Ramp agents cite concerns around excessive workloads and management’s failure to improve their working conditions as core motivators for organizing. “The organizing campaign was built on strong worker solidarity and open conversations,” said IAM Local 1363 Directing Business Representative Tim Verlinden. “We created a space for daily discussions and strategic planning within the internal committee, allowing us to navigate the many challenges we faced during this process. By staying united and committed, these workers were able to push forward and make their voices heard.”

Activision User Research Workers Vote to Join CWA: A supermajority of user research workers at video game publisher Activision voted on Friday to form a union with Communications Workers of America (CWA) Local 9400. User researchers study consumer opinions and behaviors for video game developers so they can produce the best experience for players. As part of the Campaign to Organize Digital Employees-CWA (CODE-CWA), these workers are joining the ranks of more than 2,000 colleagues at other Microsoft-owned studios who have organized under the tech giant’s neutrality agreement with CWA. “A union allows workers to create an industry that works for them, which is vital in an industry that we deeply care about,” said organizing committee member Pat Dimaandal in a press release. “Workers should not feel punished for pursuing a career that they love, and that’s why we’re organizing toward long-term, sustainable careers in this industry.”

Community College of Philadelphia Strike Averted After Tentative Agreement Secured by Union: Early Wednesday morning, members of the Faculty and Staff Federation of Community College of Philadelphia (FSFCCP), American Federation of Teachers (AFT) Local 2026, reached a tentative agreement just hours before faculty and staff were set to walk off the job. Negotiations over separate four-year contracts for CCP’s full-time professors, adjuncts and school staffers concluded after a final 19-hour bargaining session. Workers have been without a contract since August and, earlier this month, in a powerful display of unity, 97% of voting members voted to authorize a strike if necessary. Details of the deals are not publicly available until a ratification vote has taken place, but FSFCCP said that they contain historic raises, more manageable classroom sizes and some critical elements of members’ staffing demands. Representatives from the union said, “We believe we reached a tentative agreement that will significantly improve the lives of our faculty and staff members and will improve the learning conditions of CCP’s students. CCP is the heart of Philly.”

Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 04/02/2025 - 15:45

Tags: Organizing

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Ohio University Faculty Overwhelmingly Vote to Form Union

Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

After a yearslong organizing campaign, faculty members at Ohio University are celebrating a powerful victory in their election to form the United Academics of Ohio University (UAOU), which is affiliated with the American Association of University Professors (AAUP) and the American Federation of Teachers (AFT).

Of the staff who voted, over 70% cast a ballot in favor of organizing, according to the State Employment Relations Board. While the petition to join UAOU was filed in March 2024, faculty have been discussing a union four years prior after dozens of their colleagues were fired during the COVID-19 pandemic. As they turn their attention to bargaining, members are hoping to secure a contract with improved job security, fair pay and a stronger collective voice at work.

“I am so proud to be part of OU faculty coming together to vote yes for our union,” said Rachel Terman, an associate professor in sociology. “I am looking forward to a faculty union that works with the administration to do what is best for students, faculty and higher education in Ohio and particularly Southeast Ohio. The work to get to this point hasn’t been easy, but the persistence and patience of OU faculty are a testament to our professional dedication.”

Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 04/02/2025 - 09:58

Stand Up and Support Federal 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 X.

Alaska AFL-CIO:

Today, we honor the life and legacy of César Chávez, a generational labor leader born on this day in 1927. 
¡Sí se puede! #CesarChavezDay pic.twitter.com/0ds9Ffgta0

— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) March 31, 2025

California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:

This Saturday, April 5, unions across California and across the country will come together with allies of labor to send a message to the federal government: #HandsOff our unions and contracts!

Find an event near you: https://t.co/uTTjWDq1V3 pic.twitter.com/qcp2ZitCy3

— California Federation of Labor Unions (@CaliforniaLabor) April 1, 2025

Colorado AFL-CIO:

Don’t get it wrong, the fight for worker justice is the fight for trans rights. Trans workers are our siblings in this struggle. And we proudly fight alongside them. Happy Trans Day of Visibility!

Say it loud, say it proud: trans rights are workers rights! period. 💅 pic.twitter.com/h8T9Ehu0yS

— Colorado AFL-CIO ✊ (@AFLCIOCO) April 1, 2025

Connecticut AFL-CIO:

"Social Security is an earned benefit. It may be called an entitlement program by those who wish to ransack it to increase their personal bottom line but working people contribute to Social Security with every single paycheck, it’s our money!" -CT AFL-CIO President @EHawthorne3 pic.twitter.com/qynYk1QWMi

— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) March 31, 2025

Illinois AFL-CIO:

Central Labor Council's are where the action is. The Vermilion County Federation of Labor joined over 100 individuals in Mahomet, IL earlier this month to demand a town hall meeting from Congresswoman Mary Miller. #1u pic.twitter.com/eCvGDTDBti

— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) March 31, 2025

Iowa Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO:

Senator @ChuckGrassley and his staff tried to keep his “town hall” in Hampton today quiet by not publishing it, but word got out. This is the overflow of people who couldn’t get into the event. People are sick and tired of the Trump/Musk agenda! @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/47QMVskUea

— Iowa AFL-CIO ✊ (@IowaAFLCIO) March 21, 2025

Kentucky State AFL-CIO:

Stand up. Fight back. Walk-in!

This morning, union members and community allies stood alongside educators and students during walk-ins across Kentucky, showing up to defend public schools and the people who make them strong. 

Watch out for more walk-ins through March 21 ✊ pic.twitter.com/QObp1tVUGR

— Kentucky AFL-CIO (@aflcioky) March 19, 2025

Maine AFL-CIO:

“We see this as a full on assault on our rights, and we’re banding together and we’re fighting back against it. It’s totally illegal and it’s unacceptable." https://t.co/tEiEvXEXXN

— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) April 1, 2025

Massachusetts AFL-CIO:

We were proud to stand with @UAWRegion9A workers on strike at Wellesley College today! pic.twitter.com/kurwcqD9Iw

— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) March 27, 2025

Michigan State AFL-CIO:

STATEMENT: We Applaud @GovWhitmer's Investment in Registered Apprenticeships through the Michigan Workforce Development Institutehttps://t.co/tneZAWmiKR pic.twitter.com/Imttp5W5pR

— Michigan AFL-CIO ✊ (@MIAFLCIO) April 1, 2025

Minnesota AFL-CIO:

Minnesota has lower poverty; a slightly higher proportion of its population with health coverage; better education outcomes; and lower violent crime rates. It is hard to conclude that our higher taxes did not make these achievements possible. #mnleg https://t.co/zCepVKI3Bq

— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) April 1, 2025

Missouri AFL-CIO:

We were proud to stand up and support federal workers this weekend with @AFGENational, thank you to everyone who showed up and spoke up against illegal firings and attacks on #Unions! #Solidarity #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/8WIQ8BziOH

— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) March 31, 2025

Nebraska State AFL-CIO:

Join on April 8th in Lincoln and show your support of VA workers. #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/00ufvpJtZs

— NE State AFL-CIO (@NEAFLCIO) April 1, 2025

Nevada State AFL-CIO:

An injury to one is an injury to all. pic.twitter.com/EwGGw0LQ1K

— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) March 29, 2025

New York State AFL-CIO:

Statement from President Cilento on the federal collective bargaining executive order stripping workers of their right to unionize: https://t.co/wkxOoPq4Wc

— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) March 28, 2025

North Carolina State AFL-CIO:

We will not be silenced! NC AFL-CIO Condemns Union Busting Executive Order: https://t.co/LC4EA29D7N #countmein #1u 🧵 pic.twitter.com/rieTg0VANe

— NC State AFL-CIO (@ncstateaflcio.bsky.social) (@NCStateAFLCIO) March 28, 2025

Ohio AFL-CIO:

“Flight attendants are living in their cars, they’re living in crash pads,” said Rebecca Black, AFA. “They can’t afford rent and apartments, they’re having to live with their families.”
We will stand with our @afa_cwa Siblings until a deal is done.https://t.co/eEnE5AUeWc

— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) March 27, 2025

Oregon AFL-CIO:

This month, we recognize and celebrate Arab American Heritage Month. In 1979, Oregon was the first state to elect an Arab American governor – Victor George Atiyeh. 1/ pic.twitter.com/HgvbdjCp10

— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) April 1, 2025

Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:

We voted to prioritize American workers and families, not special jobs for CEOs and propping of dictators. Our leaders must put America first. pic.twitter.com/VRMeoK2dZR

— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) April 1, 2025

Texas AFL-CIO:

🚨 ACTION ALERT: @GregAbbott_TX's private school voucher scam is moving through the Texas House this week. 

Call your State Represenative NOW (click to call at the link below) and tell them Texans don't want vouchers – vote NO on #HB3 and #SB2! #txlege https://t.co/03f3402K9W

— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) March 31, 2025

Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:

All the 💐🌷🌹🌻🌺 to Verlene and Jacquie! https://t.co/pifHU5lI9M

— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) March 31, 2025

Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:

pic.twitter.com/aJ8mZcFL4z

— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) April 1, 2025

Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 04/01/2025 - 12:32