Pride Month Profiles: Meg Jansen
For Pride Month, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various LGBTQ+ Americans who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights. Today's Pride Month profile is Meg Jansen of the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW).
Meg Jansen is an active member who works as a barista at Giant Eagle. She submitted the winning design for UFCW OUTreach’s Pride T-shirt design contest.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 06/17/2022 - 10:00Tags: Pride
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: AFL-CIO Sports Council to Be the Voice of Union Athletes
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 more and more professional athletes joining together in unions, our labor movement is founding the AFL-CIO Sports Council. AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler announced the formation of the new council, which will strengthen union athletes across the sports industry.
Founding members of the Sports Council include NFL Players Association (NFLPA), United Football Players Association-USW, NWSL Players Association (NWSLPA), USWNT Players Association (USWNTPA) and USL Players Association-CWA (USLPA-CWA).
“We love the sport that we play, but the issues that our members face are universal ones,” said NWSLPA Executive Director Meghann Burke. “As we come together to form the new AFL-CIO Sports Council, our capacity to win justice on the field for players, and to act in solidarity with workers off the field, will only increase.”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 06/17/2022 - 09:32Pride Month Profiles: Brian Gambino
For Pride Month, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various LGBTQ+ Americans who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights. Today's Pride Month profile is Brian Gambino of the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA).
Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) member and First Officer Brian Gambino developed his passion for aviation at a young age, growing up under the final approach path for runway 22L at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport. His interest became what is now a 16-year career at three ALPA carriers, and his passion is just as strong now as it was at the start. Outside of flying, Brian spends his time advocating for change through the work of the NGPA, the worldwide LGBTQ aviation community. As the organization's president, he leads the charge on diversity, equity and inclusion issues facing the LGBTQ+ community in aviation. Whether he's traveling in a JetBlue Airbus crossing the Atlantic or leading a seminar on inclusion, you’re sure to see Brian living out his passion with a smile on his face.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 06/16/2022 - 09:42Tags: Pride
Organize & Rise: In the States Roundup
It's time once again to take a look at the ways working people are making progress in the states. Click on any of the links to follow the state federations on Twitter.
Alaska AFL-CIO:
The Alaska AFL-CIO could not be more excited to welcome @LizShuler as the first ever woman to be elected President of the @AFLCIO #1u pic.twitter.com/Qgwm1ZRGaH
— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) June 13, 2022Arizona AFL-CIO:
Apple employees "struggled with COVID, rude customers, mental health, unhappiness with wages, and lack of advancement." Listen in about Apple unionization: https://t.co/5NwyblGKIa
— Arizona AFL-CIO (@ArizonaAFLCIO) June 13, 2022California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:
"Wall St didn't build this country. The middle class built this country. And UNIONS BUILT THE MIDDLE CLASS!" -- @POTUS speaking to #AFLCIOConv https://t.co/kgFcuk4ytu
— California Labor Federation (@CaliforniaLabor) June 14, 2022Colorado AFL-CIO:
LISTEN TONIGHT Labor Exchange 6:00 PM MDT -KGNU 88.5 FM 1390 Denver/Boulder https://t.co/fuXuspt1UV
Join the conversation with Hilary Glasgow, leader of Colorado WINS Local 1876, the state employees union in a special live taped episode!https://t.co/HN5UOU23Lo pic.twitter.com/KcVv7QR77w
Connecticut AFL-CIO:
Thank you to TEDxNewHaven for standing against worker retaliation and union busting! https://t.co/82R7IQIXwt
— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) June 13, 2022Georgia State AFL-CIO:
The @USDOL under the leadership of our brother, @SecMartyWalsh, is collecting #UnionStrong stories from across the country. Let’s tell them the stories of the Georgia Labor Movement! #1u https://t.co/sEOCMnqk6i
— Georgia AFL-CIO // Pass The #ProAct (@AFLCIOGeorgia) June 14, 2022Indiana State AFL-CIO:
Our Secretary Treasurer Shawn Christ is representing Hoosiers at the @AFLCIO Convention in Philadelphia! #aflcioconv
Always proud to stand beside President @LizShuler. ✊🏽✊🏽 pic.twitter.com/yQYSrCripa
Iowa Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO:
Labor Energy Partnership Publishes White Papers on Building a Domestic Union-Made Offshore Wind Supply Chain https://t.co/FEV68xU0cO
— Iowa AFL-CIO (@IowaAFLCIO) June 14, 2022Maine AFL-CIO:
Great interview with IBEW member Kilton Webb about his union's work on labor climate policies!
“You can’t make things better if you don’t train the next generation of workers. And you can’t just hire any company to do this work, we need union training."
https://t.co/3MSBNnpMFF
Maryland State and D.C. AFL-CIO:
And congratulations to @STRedmond as Secretary-Treasurer of the @AFLCIO! #1u
— Maryland State and DC AFL-CIO (@MDDCStateFed) June 12, 2022Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
We applaud the court's ruling and are proud to have done our part within a broad coalition of consumer, civil rights, labor, and other advocates who united to resist and oppose this cynical ballot initiative scheme. Full statement by President Steven A. Tolman below. #1u #mapoli https://t.co/8cKeRmxUPd pic.twitter.com/THihFyokHk
— Massachusetts AFL-CIO // Build Back Better (@massaflcio) June 14, 2022Michigan State AFL-CIO:
#HeckWoodWill #Labor2022 https://t.co/Uwa1EV5MmK
— Michigan AFL-CIO 💉💪 (@MIAFLCIO) June 7, 2022Minnesota AFL-CIO:
Frontline workers: You went above and beyond to protect our communities and save lives during the pandemic. Now, it's time to get the support you deserve. Visit: https://t.co/fDUcsaTCFa #FrontlineWorkerPay #1u https://t.co/IbB2YlO27p
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) June 8, 2022Missouri AFL-CIO:
Join President Hummel and Secretary-Treasurer Berry in helping children of need of back-to-school supplies on June 22! pic.twitter.com/63PNEbye5n
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) June 13, 2022Nevada State AFL-CIO:
Thank you to the @MineWorkers for inviting our Executive Secretary Treasurer Susie Martinez to speak at their 56th Constitutional Convention! #UnionStrong (1/5) pic.twitter.com/pXabEYyo3D
— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) June 6, 2022New Hampshire AFL-CIO:
House Education's Interim Study Comm. on HB 1229 has a considered discussion about how to assure schoolchildren have healthy meals at school. @AFTNewHampshire @AFSCME93 @SEIU1984 @NHNEAPrez @UAW2322 @PFFNH @Local_789 @NTULocal1044 @AFTunion #NHpolitics pic.twitter.com/LLKgnveo4u
— NewHampshire AFL-CIO (@NHAFLCIO) June 13, 2022New York State AFL-CIO:
Our nurses show up for us every day, and this week the NYS Senate and Assembly showed up for them. THANK YOU for passing these bills to protect our nurses from mandatory overtime! Full statement from NY's union movement: https://t.co/DTouJcb6pE pic.twitter.com/iuiczteKRQ
— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) June 3, 2022North Carolina State AFL-CIO:
Our 65th Annual Convention at the Hilton Raleigh North Hills in our dynamic state capital! We hope you will say “Count me in!” to join us there on Thursday and Friday, September 29th and 30th. Learn more at https://t.co/SyGkkNUiBC #1u #ncpol pic.twitter.com/zI4nEQYo8h
— NC State AFL-CIO // #OrganizeTheSouth (@NCStateAFLCIO) June 10, 2022North Dakota AFL-CIO:
Powerful workers speaking up at our Fargo Union Organizing event with @Shut_downAmazon ALU Pres Chris Smalls, David Gutsche with @HPBWorkersUnite, Lola Rubens and Marshall Steele with @starbucksunion and @MNAFLCIO Pres @bernieburnham4! #1u pic.twitter.com/ryOYYVr6t8
— North Dakota AFL-CIO (@NDAFLCIO) June 8, 2022Ohio AFL-CIO:
Thanks @TimothyDSnyder for joining the #AFLCIOConv to remind us how fragile our Democracy is and that as a labor movement, we should care about #Ukraine because it’s the working people fighting, suffering and dying on the front lines. pic.twitter.com/sOV1cFEN6X
— 🇺🇦 Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) June 14, 2022Oregon AFL-CIO:
Any statement issued by corporate or management that says you can’t discuss your compensation is ILLEGAL. #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/M6cF6mtud1
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) June 14, 2022Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:
Our President Angela Ferritto opened Day 2 of the 29th @AFLCIO Constitutional Convention! #AFLCIOConv #UnionStrong #UnionProud
Watch here: https://t.co/UIX8hNcgDm
Rhode Island AFL-CIO:
Join us and the @ri_trades Women's Council for a Juneteenth Freedom Celebration!
✊✊🏿✊🏾✊🏽✊🏼✊🏻
#juneteenth2022 #1u #BLM pic.twitter.com/t2Ek1Novi1
Tennessee AFL-CIO Labor Council:
Enjoying the chance to spend time with fellow Southern Region leaders at the @AFLCIO Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia! #AFLCIOConv #1u pic.twitter.com/4qdAPT9AGf
— Tennessee AFL-CIO (@tnaflcio) June 14, 2022Texas AFL-CIO:
Did you know that you can stream the Lone Star Labor Pod on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Podbean, or anywhere you listen to podcasts?
Tune in to our latest episode with partners from the first unionized Starbucks in Texas! @sbwuatx45lamar @SBWorkersUnited #1u #TXUnionStrong https://t.co/aQVmwUoiBg pic.twitter.com/dwEBM7ED0C
Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:
Pres. Larry Brown (@lebrown1one) and ST @aprilr_sims repping Washington State labor at #AFLCIOConv! pic.twitter.com/TQZtJFEGgG
— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) June 12, 2022Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
Alabama Amazon union organizers get standing ovation at @AFLCIOconv https://t.co/Lf8CaYtMkl
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) June 14, 2022 Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 06/15/2022 - 11:38Biden Declares Unyielding Support for the Labor Movement as We Fight to Build an ‘Economy That Works for Working People’
“It’s good to be home,” President Biden began, as he took the stage at the AFL-CIO Convention.
He heralded labor’s fight to transform our economy, including winning passage of the American Rescue Plan and the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. “The infrastructure law is about more than rebuilding our infrastructure, it’s about rebuilding the middle class,” Biden said. Delegates rose in applause as he called on Congress to pass the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act, which will allow more workers to have a voice on the job.
Biden also spoke about what his administration is doing to blunt the economic impact of Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine, which has caused gas and food prices to skyrocket in recent months. “When we work to bring down gas and food prices, we can save families’ money on other items,” he explained. “We can change the dynamic for working-class families” by expanding affordable child care and capping the price of insulin.
“We can do all this. All I’m asking is the largest corporations and wealthiest Americans to begin to pay their fair share of taxes,” he said. Biden pointed out that the tax rate on America’s workers is much higher than the effective tax rate on greedy corporations and billionaires.
And while anti-union senators propose to sunset Social Security and Medicare, and undermine the Affordable Care Act’s protection for people with pre-existing conditions, Biden made clear that he and the labor movement will always stand in their way. “We’re not going back to the false promise of trickle-down economics. We’re going forward.”
“We’re counting on you again to build this country for all of us,” the president told the assembled delegates. “I promise you, I’m going to keep fighting for you. Are you prepared to fight with me?”
The answer from workers in the hall was unanimous and in one collective voice: “Yes!”
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 06/15/2022 - 11:04Tags: AFL-CIO Convention
Pride Month Profiles: Maureen Rooney
For Pride Month, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various LGBTQ+ Americans who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights. Today's Pride Month profile is Maureen Rooney of the Utility Workers (UWUA).
Maureen Rooney is currently the only female distribution field worker in her workplace. She’s a strong, independent woman who is up to the challenge of the important job of operating and maintaining water infrastructure systems. It is a physical job that involves working on fire hydrants, driving a truck and fixing water mains, and Rooney performs the duties as well as any of her coworkers.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 06/15/2022 - 10:00Tags: Pride
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: CWA Secures Groundbreaking Labor Neutrality Agreement with Microsoft
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 Communications Workers of America (CWA) and Microsoft announced on Monday they have entered into a labor neutrality agreement. The landmark agreement will apply at video game company Activision Blizzard after Microsoft’s acquisition closes, and it reflects a fundamental belief by both organizations that enabling workers to freely and fairly make a choice about union representation will benefit Microsoft and its employees, and create opportunities for innovation in the gaming sector.
“This agreement provides a pathway for Activision Blizzard workers to exercise their democratic rights to organize and collectively bargain,” said CWA President Chris Shelton. “Microsoft’s binding commitments will give employees a seat at the table and ensure that the acquisition of Activision Blizzard benefits the company’s workers and the broader video game labor market.
Quality assurance workers at Activision Blizzard subsidiary Raven Software recently voted to form a union with CWA, and the agreement with Microsoft opens the door for many more video game workers to join them.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 06/15/2022 - 09:30Pride Month Profiles: Reginald Small
For Pride Month, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various LGBTQ+ Americans who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights. Today's Pride Month profile is Reginald Small of the Communications Workers of America (CWA).
Reginald Small is a proud 28-year member of the Communications Workers of America (CWA) and currently serves as secretary for CWA Local 6215 in Dallas. In addition, he directs the local’s Community Services Committee and serves on the National Committee on Civil Rights and Equity. Small is passionate about his work and advocacy for marginalized communities. Most notably, he has been actively engaged in combating homelessness in his community and beyond.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 06/14/2022 - 10:00Tags: Pride
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: Another Hurricane Season Starts Without Enough Utility Workers
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.
All utilities—electric, gas and water services—have slashed their workforces in recent decades. Coupled with a disproportionately older utility workforce reaching retirement, there are fewer highly skilled line workers and transmission and distribution technicians doing those much-needed jobs. This has put communities at risk, particularly as we head into another dangerous hurricane season.
“With all these utilities cutting back on their workforce, and a lot of maintenance not getting done, it’s a recipe for the disasters we are seeing now,” said Utility Workers (UWUA) Local 1-2 Executive Board member Chris Katzmann, who was among scores of UWUA members who responded after Hurricane Ida struck Louisiana last year. Sign the UWUA’s petition to ensure we invest in the next generation of utility workers.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 06/14/2022 - 09:30Pride Month Profiles: Brittani Murray
For Pride Month, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various LGBTQ+ Americans who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights. Today's Pride Month profile is Brittani Murray of the United Steelworkers (USW).
Brittani Murray helped turn the United Steelworkers' LGBTQ+ Advisory Committee into a bolder, more energetic force. She's also incredibly active in Local 3657 and in her community as an organizer with SisTers PGH and Pittsburgh Feminists for Intersectionality.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 06/13/2022 - 10:00Tags: Pride
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: UA Members Take Action to Fix Wastewater System in Alabama
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.
An estimated 80% of the homes in Lowndes County, Alabama, do not have access to reliable sewage systems, resulting in wastewater rising to the surface during rainy weather. Due to the lack of infrastructure and funding, many residents in the predominantly Black and underserved community have been forced to live in these unhealthy conditions for more than 25 years.
Members of the United Association of Union Plumbers and Pipefitters (UA) in Alabama teamed up with the International Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Foundation and others to volunteer in their communities to solve problems and ensure access to proper wastewater systems. The UA members repaired plumbing fixtures and fittings so they work in tandem with new septic systems being installed.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 06/13/2022 - 09:41Helping Workers in the South: 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.
Foundations Embrace Organized Labor with $20 Million Plan to Help Workers in the South: “It’s a lesson learned from the #MeToo movement, the wave of protests following the murder of George Floyd by Minneapolis police, and the string of union victories at places like Amazon and Starbucks that previously seemed impervious to attempts to organize, says Christian Sweeney, deputy organizing director at the AFL-CIO. ‘There’s a growing sense that the major problems in our country aren’t getting solved purely through policy interventions or charitable works,’ Sweeney says. ‘What’s driving this from the foundation side is that people see the labor movement broadly as a place to change the balance of power.’”
WGAE Members Approve Changes to Guild’s Constitution to Ensure 'Balanced Representation' Amid Digital Gains: “WGA East members have voted overwhelmingly to approve changes to the guild’s constitution that are designed to ensure a more ‘balanced representation’ of members by bridging the divide between those who work in film, TV and broadcasting, and those employed in digital newsrooms. The referendum, which was approved by a vote of 1,567-40 (98%-2%), includes the creation of three work-sector vice presidents covering members who work in Film/TV/Streaming, Broadcast/Cable/Streaming News and Online Media.”
Biden to Address Major Labor Conference Next Week: “President Biden next week will travel to Philadelphia to speak at a convention for the AFL-CIO, the largest federation of unions in the country. Biden will deliver remarks on Tuesday at the convention, which takes place every four years. It will be a high-profile event for Biden to emphasize his support for organized labor. The AFL-CIO is made up of 57 different labor unions representing more than 12 million workers.”
California Nurses Plan for Potential Second Strike of 2022: “Nurses at AHMC Seton Medical Center in Daly City, California, have voted to authorize their bargaining committee to call a strike, according to the union that represents them. The California Nurses Association represents 300 nurses at Seton. Its members are prepared to strike for a second time this year unless the hospital addresses what the union describes as critical and persistent patient care issues and the closure of vital services, according to a June 6 news release. The nurses went on strike in March. ‘The last thing we want to do is strike. We love our patients, our hospital and our community, but AHMC has failed all of us and we need to call attention to these critical concerns before it is too late,’ Michelle Kubota, a registered nurse at Seton, said in the release.”
TV and Movie Music Supervisors Are Looking to Unionize: “For an example of what a music supervisor can achieve, just look at the moment Kate Bush is having right now. After her song ‘Running Up That Hill’ was played on the most recent season of the Netflix hit Stranger Things, the song found new life on the charts, and has elicited a rare response from Bush herself. None of that could have happened without a music supervisor (Nora Felder, in this case). Now music supervisors are looking to unionize with the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, or IATSE. According to IATSE, 75% of film and television music supervisors have signed authorization cards to join the union. The union says music supervisors want to standardize pay rates in order to tackle discrimination and disparities; gain access to healthcare and retirement plans; and negotiate with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers, which has not voluntarily recognized the union.”
Mills Announces $12M to More Than Double Apprenticeships in Maine: “Awards totaling $12.3 million to 14 organizations will expand apprenticeship opportunities across Maine in more than 50 new occupations. Gov. Janet Mills said the expansion is part of her administration’s effort to strengthen Maine’s workforce through the Maine Jobs & Recovery Plan. The funding is expected to reach more than 3,000 Maine people, doubling today’s total of 1,175 apprentices. Maine AFL-CIO plans to develop three new pre-apprenticeship programs focused on providing multi-craft core curriculum in partnership with IBEW 1253, New England Laborers Training Academy, Maine Building and Construction Trades Council, and RSU 19.”
Unions Lobby Biden for Bolder Approach to Student Debt Relief: “The AFL-CIO announced last month its support for canceling student debt. So too have traditionally blue-collar unions, such as United Auto Workers, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters and United Food & Commercial Workers, which all signed a letter last month urging Biden to cancel student debt ‘immediately.’ The broad union backing may provide Biden with some political cover and help counter concerns, even from some Democrats, that student debt cancellation will be perceived as elitist by voters who never attended college. ‘This is a working people’s issue,’ AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler said during a town hall with young workers last month. ‘There is a sort of stereotype that we’re talking about Ivy Leaguers who have racked up all this debt. It’s absolutely not true.’”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 06/10/2022 - 13:24Holding Employers Accountable: 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:
ICYMI - We are pleased to share with you the results of Equity's 2022 Officer and Councilor Election! https://t.co/KcKBMEGx5S pic.twitter.com/sJkj7Goq7e
— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) June 9, 2022AFGE:
Find out more about COSH and how they have been an important ally of AFGE in our fight for safe and healthy workplaces →https://t.co/qTd6n5cRAx
— AFGE (@AFGENational) June 9, 2022AFSCME:
Here is another example of the difference a union makes for working people. By standing together, employees of Kansas City, MO, who are part of AFSCME Local 500 secured much-needed raises & longevity pay at a time the city is losing workers left and right. https://t.co/wSqiWaz6YD
— AFSCME (@AFSCME) June 8, 2022Alliance for Retired Americans:
Without Social Security, millions of Americans would live in poverty.
But benefits are currently modest and seniors are still often struggling to make ends meet.
We must #ExpandSocialSecurity NOW!https://t.co/XjJUVr4LhD
Amalgamated Transit Union:
While worker pay hikes are a good step, Richmond Local says agency must improve safety on the job to address labor shortage. #NotOneMore #1u https://t.co/XDQ2AyAWln
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) June 8, 2022American Federation of Musicians:
Today, the NEA and NEH announced that they will each create a Chief Diversity Officer position. This is a win for creative professionals and their unions who have advocated for these positions because we know diversity is a strength. ✊🏿✊🏾✊🏽✊🏼 https://t.co/ravhOACAeX pic.twitter.com/6aesJxInIT
— AFM (@The_AFM) June 8, 2022American Federation of Teachers:
On Saturday, 6/11, AFT is partnering with @AMarch4OurLives and taking to the streets to demand an end to gun violence in our communities.
It will take all of us to make this happen. Click here to find events in your area and help us #EndGunViolenceNow. https://t.co/wAUNV2OARL pic.twitter.com/HzN5PRY7Qq
American Postal Workers Union:
On Memorial Day, the APWU honors those who gave their lives to defend our country. pic.twitter.com/9RXlzgA72i
— APWU National (@APWUnational) May 30, 2022Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance:
On Saturday, June 18th, APALA is proud to join the Poor People’s Moral March on Washington and the Polls. RSVP to join our meetup and march with us: https://t.co/MDOahnsupb
— Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance, AFL-CIO (@APALAnational) June 8, 2022Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:
“8 hours rest, 8 hours work, 8 hours for what we will” @FlyingWithSara burning down the house at the @MineWorkers convention today. pic.twitter.com/JFo9xjYbCh
— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) June 8, 2022Boilermakers:
How can unions emerge from the pandemic stronger? ✊ Read about a stop/start/continue analysis that @labornotes suggests union officials and members use to become more effective post pandemic. #BoilermakersUnion #1u
➡️ https://t.co/f8Zg3UuejC
Bricklayers:
This #MemorialDay, BAC honors our fallen soldiers. pic.twitter.com/y7Cf1MGvTT
— Bricklayers Union (@IUBAC) May 30, 2022California School Employees Association:
Excited about joint legislative budget proposal! Thanks to budget chairs @NancySkinnerCA & @AsmPhilTing for supporting classified employees & students by expanding our summer assistance program and home-to-school transportation, including @GavinNewsom's low-emission bus proposal.
— CSEA (@CSEA_Now) June 2, 2022Coalition of Black Trade Unionists:
Congratulations to the CBTU St. Louis chapter for receiving Chapter of The Year Award at the 51st CBTU Convention Awards Banquet!
Thank you to all the St. Louis chapter members who put the work in and who volunteers their time whenever we call. This award goes to all of you! pic.twitter.com/bIHZw4mTzq
Coalition of Labor Union Women:
JUNE 23 - 25: Summer Institute for Union Women (Western Region) – El Instituto de Verano para Mujeres Sindicalistas (SIUW). Register here: https://t.co/cJcZBgkYXa (via @ualelabor) pic.twitter.com/qf7tJYhDGh
— CLUW National (@CLUWNational) June 8, 2022Communications Workers of America:
We look forward to continuing to collaborate with @WorkersUnited as we help workers win a union voice on the job. ✊https://t.co/rJEaG4NBsB
— CWA (@CWAUnion) June 9, 2022Department for Professional Employees:
"The move to hire Chief Diversity Officers at the NEA and NEH is a win for creative professionals." - DPE President @J_Dorning
Read our full statement here: https://t.co/YQVgZygDhq pic.twitter.com/72J1HIeKKt
Electrical Workers:
The world's largest combined solar and energy storage project is under construction by members of Bakersfield, Calif., Local 428. https://t.co/DxD3Bwk7ZE
— IBEW (@IBEW) June 9, 2022Fire Fighters:
IAFF’s Dr. Whu: “Massive amounts of asbestos were released into the air on 9/11 threatening emergency responders working to rescue and recover victims from Ground Zero. Since then, more than 270 #firefighters have died from 9/11 related illness.” https://t.co/VcrSv7Q6xt
— International Association of Fire Fighters (@IAFFNewsDesk) June 9, 2022Heat and Frost Insulators:
For the past 115 years, the International Association of Heat and Frost Insulators and Allied Workers has been at the forefront of the green energy movement. Learn what we have been doing to save the environment: https://t.co/ZvCcUDq3eR pic.twitter.com/IXICSko0sN
— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) June 9, 2022International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers:
In the labor movement we recognize that LGBTQ+ rights are workers’s rights and we strive to organize unions in which all workers feel comfortable being open about their lives, and know that their needs will be represented forcefully at the bargaining table.
Happy #Pride! 🏳️🌈🏳️⚧️✊ pic.twitter.com/fJVvE0x2i3
International Labor Communications Association:
Congrats to ILCA member @uupinfo on releasing their first-ever episode of new podcast "The Voice!" Hosted by UUP President Dr. Frederick E. Kowal, Ph.D, the show features interviews with labor leaders and allies about issues facing NYers!
Check it out: https://t.co/09iX5DxOvG pic.twitter.com/K0Bty1ffPx
Ironworkers:
No better way to see the future of our trade than at an Ironworkers Apprenticeship Competition‼️💪 #ironworkers #apprenticeship #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/cLRXSxD7CW
— Iron Workers Union (@TheIronworkers) June 5, 2022Jobs With Justice:
When workers stand up for their rights--bosses try to stop them. Watch the video and then sign the petition to the Biden Administration is has the power to protect workers from immigration-based retaliation! https://t.co/Ia5AULZVc1 pic.twitter.com/Kau3FOg7NR
— Jobs With Justice (@jwjnational) June 7, 2022Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:
Save the date for #LGBTQIAEqualPay Awareness Day on Wednesday, June 15th! Join the conversation on social media from 11:00am-12:00pm PT/2:00pm-3:00pm ET as we uplift the need for #prideinyourpay at work, at home, and in society. pic.twitter.com/b6qk6fxohR
— LCLAA (@LCLAA) June 9, 2022Laborers:
#LIUNA in the news:
Local officials, unions press Minnesota lawmakers to complete bonding bill https://t.co/2vG1h9FUAu via @pioneerpress
Machinists:
. @SoMdNews shared our Charlotte Hall Veteran's Home project - the 2021 IAM International President’s Capital Classic Golf Tournament raised more than $100,000 for improvement projects at the home, which employs IAM members! #MachinistsCarehttps://t.co/QsDnxYEmJ8
— Machinists Union (@MachinistsUnion) June 9, 2022Metal Trades Department:
There should never be barriers when it comes to voting. Its time to end discriminationinvotingpractices. #FreedomToVote https://t.co/RApfh1NIYm
— Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) June 7, 2022Mine Workers:
#UMWA members yesterday at the UMWA Convention strongly approved of the announcement of Chris Williamson, Assistant Secretary of Labor for MSHA about the agency’s new enforcement initiative to reduce miner’s exposure to silica dust.https://t.co/VD4nJ7zh0t
— United Mine Workers (@MineWorkers) June 9, 2022Musical Artists:
Join AGMA’s Trans and Non-Binary Forum by June 17. AGMA members and non-union artists working in opera, ballet/concert dance, and choral performance are encouraged to join the discussion! https://t.co/wwVoHVSAQX pic.twitter.com/4bros5rvdA
— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) June 6, 2022National Air Traffic Controllers Association:
The Disaster Response Committee (DRC) met in May at the National Office in Washington, D.C., and DRC Chair Tom Flanary called the meeting “highly successful and productive.” https://t.co/H2n694qnbX pic.twitter.com/WceU5ATNUg
— NATCA (@NATCA) June 9, 2022National Association of Letter Carriers:
After two years, the #StampOutHunger Food Drive returned this year! While we’re still tallying the final numbers, check out these highlights from the food drive on May 14. https://t.co/Vcy8OZtLOU pic.twitter.com/G7ZAJJxQzD
— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) June 9, 2022National Day Laborer Organizing Network:
How NYC Labor Centers Are Building Stronger Communities @NICE4Workers @workersjusticep @LaColmenaNYC #daylaborersnyc @NMCIR @CathCharitiesNYhttps://t.co/Q67hJlCrbN
— NDLON (@NDLON) June 7, 2022National Domestic Workers Alliance:
Louise Belcher understands the importance of the care economy and why we need Congress to pass funding for home and community-based services. #CareCantWait pic.twitter.com/CBsY65uaTz
— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) June 7, 2022National Federation of Federal Employees:
The 2022 Organizing Donation Program is closing soon! The deadline to enroll your local is Friday, July 1. For more information, see the video here: https://t.co/urPbunNeTH
— NFFE (@NFFE_Union) June 3, 2022National Nurses United:
We are thrilled to endorse @Delia4Congress for the U.S. House of Representatives in #IL3! We can’t wait to fight alongside her to pass #SafeStaffing legislation and #MedicareForAll in Congress. 🔥 pic.twitter.com/3cbNGsEfNp
— NationalNursesUnited (@NationalNurses) June 9, 2022National Taxi Workers Alliance:
"He says the way things are going now, most drivers will have to quit."
Poverty pay is forcing drivers out of work but @dkhos says the spike in gasoline doesn't affect @Uber biz. Equally heartless and clueless. https://t.co/yPjohP4Qcy
NWSL Players Association:
🌈 Pride Night on Primetime 🌈@sandiegowavefc 🆚 @ThornsFC
The @ALLY NWSL Broadcast
📺 @CBSSportsNet
👾 Twitch/nwslofficial3 (International Viewers Only)
⏰ 10:00pm ET
📰 https://t.co/Wmp4MXqTa1#SDvPOR | #AllTheAction pic.twitter.com/iZLVIuwvIy
NFL Players Association:
Camp szn is underway! Shoutout to all the guys giving back to their communities this summer and investing in the next generation. #communitymvp @JohnathanAbram1 @dpeoplesjones @denzelward @CoryLittleton58 pic.twitter.com/xfqBmZVoDu
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) June 8, 2022North America's Building Trades Unions:
NABTU’s gold standard Registered Apprenticeship model trains participants to join their union brothers and sisters as the safest and most efficient workforce in the industry 🙌 #NationalSafetyMonth pic.twitter.com/OrhNTiI6gg
— The Building Trades (@NABTU) June 8, 2022Office and Professional Employees:
Congrats to @LCWorkersUnited on winning recognition of THEIR UNION via card check! Let’s get that first contract 💪 https://t.co/OKf03NAuop
— OPEIU (@OPEIU) June 9, 2022Painters and Allied Trades:
Let's be emboldened, encouraged and given strength by those fighting from coast to coast to unionize and take on corporate giants like Starbucks and Amazon.
This is our moment to be a guidepost that inspires and to organize our industry, the construction industry. pic.twitter.com/L9uQRoVOoC
Plasterers and Cement Masons:
“Construction has a massive safety problem—and it’s costing firms untold losses in injuries, workers’ comp & lost productivity. A key solution...is an integrated safety program that uses digital technology...”https://t.co/1t0ybPpVdc
— OPCMIA International (@opcmiaintl) June 8, 2022Pride At Work:
Let's hear it for Justine Lindsay, the 1st openly trans @NFL Cheerleader! Now let's let them form a Union. @AFLCIO @NFLPA https://t.co/nSWvNjxXIc
— Pride at Work (@PrideatWork) June 7, 2022Professional Aviation Safety Specialists:
Many workers represented by PASS at FAA climb towers to service/repair equipment critical to nation's aviation system. PASS won a recent grievance over climbing systems not in compliance w/ safety standards & they will be removed. That's what unions do. #unionsolidarity #safety https://t.co/b0PPQwl4AH
— PASS (@PASSNational) May 31, 2022Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:
Unionize – it’s what the cool kids are doing! Contact an organizer today: https://t.co/XZoh0VIN9V #OrganizeYourWorkplace pic.twitter.com/Ql5x7OIlXL
— RWDSU (@RWDSU) June 9, 2022Roofers and Waterproofers:
Overdoses from opioids are on the rise. Learn about opioid addiction and how to prevent it at: https://t.co/LpT7blHoA6 #roofersafety365 pic.twitter.com/21DRVboF9S
— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) June 8, 2022SAG-AFTRA:
For #BlackMusicMonth, we're spotlighting pioneer #ChuckD: a rapper & songwriter from #PublicEnemy. He created politically and socially conscious music, a torch now carried by artists like @kendricklamar, who regularly makes music about the Black American experience. pic.twitter.com/3socM68W5o
— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) June 9, 2022Solidarity Center:
#Nigeria's app-based drivers' unions, Solidarity Center partners, launched a class-action lawsuit in 2021 against two international ridesharing companies demanding overtime & holiday pay, pensions, social security & union recognition!
Find out more: 👉 https://t.co/c9pVQnuCiF
The NewsGuild-CWA:
Good news for all workers! https://t.co/aEbqqZRTEJ
— NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) June 9, 2022Theatrical Stage Employees:
Locals often ask us how they can get started with safety training. This primer outlines a few of the programs we developed to help your local union’s training efforts every step of the way. #NationalSafetyMonthhttps://t.co/EPqtf7WnhM pic.twitter.com/zR6hYdFUmH
— IATSE Training Trust Fund (@IATSETTF) June 7, 2022Transport Workers Union:
This unabashed look at labor history in America explains how unchecked corporates greed got us to where we are, and how working people today are stepping up and fighting back. #1u https://t.co/rCj0vutF4Q
— TWU (@transportworker) June 9, 2022Transportation Trades Department:
"BNSF has been embroiled in a labor dispute over its attendance policy for months. According to Greg Regan, president of @TTDAFLCIO, around 1,000 workers have resigned since February."
Read more from @cnbc about how freight railroads are affecting port congestion ⤵️ https://t.co/gbQsG8YQgB
UAW:
UAW International Executive Board announces strike pay to increase from $275 per week to $400 per week.
“Our striking members and their families deserve our solidarity, and this increased benefit will help them hold the line," -UAW President Ray Curry - https://t.co/GKMmtM0mAr pic.twitter.com/yLMReTZPC3
Union Label and Service Trades Department:
A majority of American workers support more unionization inside their own companies, according to the CNBC|Momentive Workforce Survey. https://t.co/WZl3DHcg1o
— Union Label Dept. (@ULSTD_AFLCIO) June 3, 2022Union Veterans Council:
In response to the Senate advancing the landmark Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring Our PACT Act of 2022 addressing health care for #veterans impacted by environmental exposures, our Executive Director Will Attig issued the following statement: #ThereForTheFight pic.twitter.com/bQpCzs7nj8
— Union Veterans Council🪖✊ Pass the #PROAct (@unionveterans) June 8, 2022UNITE HERE:
Want to make a housekeeper's day? Choose daily housekeeping! 🌞
Rooms that have gone days without cleaning are much dirtier and harder on us to clean - so opting in for daily housekeeping is a free and easy way to help out your housekeeper.
Watch Luanna explain: pic.twitter.com/oOGW02NycI
United Food and Commercial Workers:
#UFCWVictory ✊🏿✊🏻✊🏽✊🏾
ICYMI: @UFCW27 members working at the Coca-Cola bottling plant in Baltimore, MD, ratified a new contract that includes improved pension and health care benefits and wage increases.
Click here to read more: https://t.co/pKIaLgjqp4 pic.twitter.com/lYW134AMDn
United Steelworkers:
We are so proud to announce “Stories of Pride”, our first virtual panel with the USW LGBTQ+ Advisory Committee. Join our mission of diversity & inclusivity for ALL our members - JUNE 30, 2022 08:00 PM Est time-Register here: https://t.co/4Vj6tzjTfU. #SteelPride pic.twitter.com/WHLB69xOZz
— United Steelworkers (@steelworkers) June 9, 2022Utility Workers:
The work you do has value, and you’re owed every cent you’ve earned! #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/eKJplEBpIH
— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) June 7, 2022Working America:
We stand in solidarity with all fast food and retail workers across the U.S who fight for better wages, working conditions and benefits!!! #UnionStrong https://t.co/LlZLLA85lJ
— Working America | Pass the #PROAct (@WorkingAmerica) May 24, 2022Writers Guild of America, East:
We call on @VoxMedia CEO Jim @Bankoff to come to the table with fair proposals that meet the demands of the @vox_union. #VoxContractNow #1u https://t.co/6w4cRDo1J2
— Writers Guild of America, East / #PROAct (@WGAEast) June 8, 2022 Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 06/10/2022 - 10:04Pride Month Profiles: Liz Diesner
For Pride Month, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various LGBTQ+ Americans who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights. Today's Pride Month profile is Liz Diesner of the United Association of Union Plumbers and Pipefitters.
For more than a quarter-century, Stacey Zimmerman has fought to make her state a better and more progressive place as a student activist, community organizer and (good) union troublemaker. Whether knocking on doors, running electoral campaigns for pro-worker candidates or leading lobbying efforts for essential worker pandemic pay at the state capitol, she has been a tireless advocate for Connecticut’s working families.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 06/10/2022 - 09:53Service + Solidarity Spotlight: NATCA Members Host Solidarity Event with ‘Top Gun’ Screening
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 movie “Top Gun: Maverick” has hit the big screen, and union members across the country are talking about it—including members of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) who keep America’s airspace safe. NATCA members who work at St. Louis/Lambert Air Traffic Control Tower recently hosted a solidarity event with a screening of the “Top Gun” sequel. NATCA President Rich Santa attended and spoke with members from around the St. Louis region.
“It was awesome to get to spend time with local Central Region members and especially while celebrating a movie related to aviation,” NATCA Central Regional Vice President Aaron Merrick said. “We’re always excited about the opportunity to build solidarity, face to face, with other local facilities and our union leadership.”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 06/10/2022 - 09:38New York City Comptroller Brad Lander Praises Amazon’s Workers For Exercising Their Freedom to Unionize
In a video message to Amazon workers, New York City Comptroller Brad Lander praised Amazon workers who are exercising their freedom to come together into unions to negotiate for a fair return on their work. He explained that the company and its shareholders, as well as workers’ pension plans, will benefit over the long term by treating workers well.
At Amazon’s shareholder meeting on May 25, Lander joined New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli and Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs to urge a vote against Amazon Director Judith McGrath. McGrath had refused to meet with the New York City Employees’ Retirement System and other investors to discuss Amazon’s treatment of its workforce.
Director McGrath chairs the board of director’s Leadership Development and Compensation Committee that awarded Amazon CEO Andy Jassy $212 million in 2021 total compensation, an amount that is 6,474 times Amazon’s median employee pay of $32,855. More than 20% of Amazon’s shareholders withheld their vote from McGrath. Click here to learn more.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 06/09/2022 - 15:14Pride Month Profiles: Annarose Foley
For Pride Month, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various LGBTQ+ Americans who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights. Today's Pride Month profile is Annarose Foley of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT).
Annarose Foley is a middle school librarian, the Library Curriculum Committee head, president of the School Librarians of the Southern Tier–East and a member of the Ithaca Teachers Association.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 06/09/2022 - 09:53Service + Solidarity Spotlight: IFPTE Launches Member Engagement and Mobilization Program
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service + Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
As part of their effort to better connect the members of the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE) with the work of the international and local unions, IFPTE’s President Matthew Biggs and Secretary-Treasurer Gay Henson have launched a program to increase communication and interaction.
This campaign recently launched with a pilot program in New Jersey, which has been a target of the anti-union Freedom Foundation. IFPTE’s Member Engagement and Mobilization (MEMO) Program will include local union newsletters, regular engagement activities such as raffles and surveys of members to find out their concerns and priorities.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 06/09/2022 - 09:30Study: Labor, Retail and Service Workers Experienced 68% of Deaths in First Year of COVID-19 Pandemic
A new study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health shows that the COVID-19 pandemic had a significantly worse impact on adults in low socioeconomic positions (SEP) employed in labor, service and retail jobs. The study analyzed nearly 70,000 adults between the ages of 25 and 64, when they died from COVID-19.
The study found that the mortality rate of adults with low SEP was five times higher than those with high SEP. White women, for instance, make up the largest percentage of the high SEP and Hispanic men are more likely to have a low SEP. This meant that the mortality rate for low SEP Hispanic men was 27 times higher than the rate for high SEP White women.
"The degree to which it takes a toll on communities is very unevenly distributed and we wanted to call attention to that issue," said University of South Florida epidemiologist Jason Salemi, who launched the study in conjunction with the COVKID Project using data from the U.S. National Center for Health Statistics. The data covers the first year of the pandemic, 2020.
The study found hazardous conditions in the workplace, including working in close proximity with others and the public and work that required on-site attendance.
"If we were to immediately heed the calls to return to 'normal' and stop worrying about community spread of the virus, there are certain subsets and members of our community who are going to suffer way more so than other members—and these people have already borne the disproportionate brunt of this pandemic," said Salemi.
According to Salemi, the plan is to expand the study with data from 2021 and beyond.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 06/08/2022 - 13:07Tags: COVID-19
Pride Month Profiles: Stacey Zimmerman
For Pride Month, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various LGBTQ+ Americans who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights. Today's Pride Month profile is Stacey Zimmerman of SEIU.
For more than a quarter-century, Stacey Zimmerman has fought to make her state a better and more progressive place as a student activist, community organizer and (good) union troublemaker. Whether knocking on doors, running electoral campaigns for pro-worker candidates or leading lobbying efforts for essential worker pandemic pay at the state capitol, she has been a tireless advocate for Connecticut’s working families.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 06/08/2022 - 09:53
