We Proudly Celebrate Black History Month
February is Black History Month. And while we celebrate Black labor leaders and union members, both past and present, who have advanced real change, we won’t ignore the moment we find ourselves in right now.
It already has been an extraordinarily difficult year for people of color, as the White House rolls back critical initiatives to protect diversity and inclusion, erases hard-fought civil rights protections, and fires Black federal workers who keep our country running. These attacks on our families and communities place an even heavier weight on the ongoing fight to end systemic racism and achieve economic justice.
But there is a reason that the civil rights movement and labor movement rose together at the same time a generation ago. Together, we will not despair—we will stand in our power and our agency.
As the renowned labor leader Bayard Rustin once said, “To be afraid is to behave as if the truth were not true.” And we know our truth.
This year marks the 100-year anniversary of the founding of the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters (BSCP), the first Black labor union in America to become part of the American Federation of Labor (AFL). We recall BSCP members’ courage, and use it as we work to build a country that ensures dignity for all working people.
We’re proudly highlighting Black workers this month who continue to stand in the tradition of activism in the labor movement. See our Black History Month profiles we’ve featured on our blog so far.
Together, we will advance the march toward progress.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 02/19/2025 - 11:04Tags: Black History Month
Making Their Voices Heard Loud and Clear: 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:
Final Equity #StageManagerDay fact drop! No.3 pic.twitter.com/8OhDnZb8mq
— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) February 16, 2025
AFGE:
Congrats, AFGE! We passed 325,000 members on our Drive to 325 campaign! It's up to all of us to keep growing our union, growing our voice, and growing our power! pic.twitter.com/GzZyyZVOVi
— AFGE (@AFGENational) February 15, 2025
AFSCME:
State workers in Alaska are making their voices heard loud and clear in their fight to shore up staffing. https://t.co/HCtTLFkMdV
— AFSCME (@AFSCME) February 18, 2025
Alliance for Retired Americans:
Our statement on DOGE at SSA: pic.twitter.com/Y5VIg3EfaU
— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) February 19, 2025
Amalgamated Transit Union:
In the wake of the tragic stabbing death of our Local 587 Brother Yim, senseless gun violence on a Seattle bus. More needs to be done to protect our members and riders. #NotOneMore https://t.co/AL59SZsVuJ
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) February 19, 2025
American Federation of Teachers:
On March 4, we're mobilizing to Protect our kids from the Trump administration’s plans to gut the U.S. Department of Education and slash federal funding.
Want to learn more? Join our call tonight! Register here: https://t.co/ZVd6xOtTJv pic.twitter.com/iTmNpVOepH
— AFT (@AFTunion) February 19, 2025
American Postal Workers Union:
Postmaster General (PMG) Louis DeJoy has informed the Postal Board of Governors that he will soon depart the Postal Service. The Board of Governors, who by law is solely responsible for hiring the PMG, will begin the process of identifying DeJoy’s successor and DeJoy has… pic.twitter.com/5skPTyloPG
— The American Postal Workers Union - APWU (@APWUnational) February 18, 2025
Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:
Aviation’s first responders save lives. Listen to your Flight Attendants. pic.twitter.com/CueAIMcaLB
— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) February 18, 2025
Boilermakers:
🎓There are ONLY two weeks left until the 2025 Boilermaker International Scholarship Program applications close. Don't miss it! Submit by March 1, 2025 to qualify. https://t.co/XDMQa14ddo pic.twitter.com/wluhXZ2yTB
— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) February 15, 2025
Bricklayers:
Happy #WorkSiteWednesday!
This week, we’re working in the @Local1BAC training center upgrading their skills with the Historic Masonry Preservation certification!
Want to see your worksite featured? DM us your worksite pictures!#SkilledTrades #BestHandsInTheBusiness pic.twitter.com/kq81bM3rzJ
— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) February 19, 2025
Communications Workers of America:
On Feb 3, 47 workers at the Alamo Drafthouse in Colorado were illegally laid off with little to no warning or severance.
In response to these illegal layoffs, the workers have walked off the job in an Unfair Labor Practice Strike. https://t.co/xGTzgmX51v
— CWA (@CWAUnion) February 18, 2025
Department for Professional Employees:
"We can expand the labor movement’s reach by unionizing our own workplaces." https://t.co/i2MnoLJzyI
— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) February 18, 2025
Electrical Workers:
"Trade careers aren’t always what people think of when they hear about high school education, but that’s exactly what Ritenour School District is hoping to provide through a new program supported by green energy companies and local unions." https://t.co/ottJ0Eb0yz
— IBEW (@IBEW) February 18, 2025
Fire Fighters:
🚒 A monopoly of fire truck and ambulance manufacturing in the U.S. is driving costs higher, said @iaffpresident in the @nytimes.
“At the end of the day, absent competition, monopoly capitalism is a shakedown.” https://t.co/lEmnGoWTBl
— International Association of Fire Fighters (@IAFFofficial) February 18, 2025
Heat and Frost Insulators:
One Union. ✅
Hear from International Representative, Jaime André on the power of organizing.
Andre joined Local 95 out of Cornwall, Ontario, in 1997. He credits his success in joining the Union to his late father Réo André, & uncle Ernest André, who were proud Local 95 members.… pic.twitter.com/OppVE2MXtK
— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) February 17, 2025
Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:
On Monday, the LCLAA Sacramento Chapter took action today, standing in solidarity with workers and immigrants who help build this nation. Together, we fight for dignity, justice, and fair labor rights for all! ✊🏽 #LCLAA #DayOfAction #ImmigrantsBuildNations pic.twitter.com/xyxAcYE66R
— LCLAA (@LCLAA) February 18, 2025
Labor Heritage Foundation:
Sara Nelson confirmed for “Gonna Take Us All”
Sara Nelson, president of the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, joining us at the ball!https://t.co/F47NWGNSi9 pic.twitter.com/YXJBYvPUpu
— Labor Heritage (@LaborHeritage1) February 18, 2025
Laborers:
Real skills. Real training. Real money. 🎯
LIUNA’s hands-on training programs don’t just teach the trade—they set you up for a career that pays what you’re worth!
Find #LIUNA training near you: https://t.co/P9a5gAf51l pic.twitter.com/vPeLCE3iuc
— LIUNA (@LIUNA) February 19, 2025
Machinists:
Right now we’re outside of Amtrak Auto Train to let the public know that Drummac is dragging their feet in negotiations, stalling @TCUnionHQ’s members first contract. pic.twitter.com/wtbo0K37dS
— Machinists Union (@MachinistsUnion) February 19, 2025
Metal Trades Department:
This is why we need people who know what they are doing in office. You can't fire all the experts and then wing it when it comes to national security.
— Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) February 17, 2025
Mine Workers:
Today, February 19, 2025, marks 35 years since rank-and-file miners at the Pittston Coal Company ratified a new contract, putting a victorious exclamation point on one of the most historic strikes in American history. pic.twitter.com/yL4hF9fTDm
— United Mine Workers (@MineWorkers) February 19, 2025
Musical Artists:
😎 The Choristers of Handel and Haydn Society Unionize with AGMA Following Voluntary Recognition: https://t.co/n7Ayo9d5I2 pic.twitter.com/THqHS2a5Uq
— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) February 11, 2025
National Air Traffic Controllers Association:
The business of Convention starts early. Delegates should plan to be in their seats and ready for the first gavel at 8:30 a.m. sharp on Friday, May 9. Don’t miss any part of the discussion that will shape our Union’s future.https://t.co/lu7JgBqxQQ pic.twitter.com/Mq785ECUqh
— NATCA (@NATCA) February 17, 2025
National Association of Letter Carriers:
Thank you to everyone who showed up and stood with us today for the #FightLikeHell kick-off. NALC members have never backed down from a fight—and we won’t start now. Together, we keep moving forward! pic.twitter.com/3eDoQVxVG0
— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) February 13, 2025
National Domestic Workers Alliance:
We're fighting for a future where everyone—not only the ultra wealthy—can live, work, and care with dignity.
— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) February 19, 2025
National Federation of Federal Employees:
NFFE Local 2189 member Doug Allen has been spotlighted for excellent work in his position as chief steward at the Red River Army Depot! Congratulations and thank you for the hard work, Doug. NFFE strong! pic.twitter.com/Ti5KlIBuJq
— NFFE (@NFFE_Union) February 18, 2025
National Nurses United:
The federal government just destroyed @OSHA’s publications on preventing #WorkplaceViolence in health care, along with 17 other safety resources!
This is critical information to keep health care workers and our patients safe. https://t.co/CI5aDT1JXy
— NationalNursesUnited (@NationalNurses) February 18, 2025
NFL Players Association:
Statement On College Group Licensing pic.twitter.com/TiBjB8TEOt
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) February 15, 2025
North America's Building Trades Unions:
Join us at the John P. Murtha Reception to honor the Veterans in Piping (VIP) Program! Secure your tickets today and be part of this special evening at the Washington Hilton on April 7, 2025.
🎟️ Get your tickets & learn more: https://t.co/jILA5ZVvm6 pic.twitter.com/CBIKt49Z1S
— The Building Trades (@NABTU) February 18, 2025
Office and Professional Employees:
As an @OPEIULocal8 shop steward at Kaiser Permanente in Tacoma, Charles Anthony Floyd advocates for patients and co-workers alike. We’re proud to spotlight him and his contributions to the labor movement this #BlackHistoryMonth. pic.twitter.com/GuCkqWMVJF
— OPEIU | #UnionStrong (@OPEIU) February 17, 2025
Painters and Allied Trades:
Our union apprentices are the most skilled at what they do!
We’d like to welcome @DC50Hawaii’s Painter and Taper apprentices back for the Spring semester. We're excited for you to take advantage of the hands-on training and valuable insights shared by our experienced… pic.twitter.com/NZ9y5U2ntA
— IUPAT (@GoIUPAT) February 17, 2025
Professional Aviation Safety Specialists:
One of many interviews @PASSprezdc conducted today on behalf of the mission critical @FAANews probationary employees terminated on Friday night. Thank you @InsideWithPsaki for the opportunity. #publicservice #federalemployees #aviatonsafety. https://t.co/9WsIEWTuNr
— PASS (@PASSNational) February 18, 2025
Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:
Today, the @RWDSU announces our endorsement of @MarkLevineNYC for NYC Comptroller! “We know Mark Levine has always put New York’s working people first and he will continue to do that as Comptroller, which is why we are proud to endorse him today,” says RWDSU President @sappelbaum pic.twitter.com/DEWm2mizUW
— RWDSU (@RWDSU) February 18, 2025
Roofers and Waterproofers:
Working with a nail gun? Choose the safest trigger option – a full sequential trigger. It can prevent serious, even fatal, injuries. For more tips on using nail guns safely, visit: https://t.co/wW5nSvc55h #roofersafety365 pic.twitter.com/2imDYdk5XN
— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) February 18, 2025
SAG-AFTRA:
Tune into the SAG-AFTRA podcast as #SagAftraMember leaders highlight and unpack key moments from the 6th Annual #LITSummit. A.I. contract negotiations and worker protections, international union solidarity and more! 🎧 Listen now: https://t.co/tZxZXr4ckV pic.twitter.com/6BQL0LYmfU
— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) February 18, 2025
Service Employees International Union (SEIU):
When workers unite, our voices can’t be ignored. Keep pushing for the schools, wages, and resources students & staff are owed! https://t.co/CJI7v1GZD4
— SEIU (@SEIU) February 19, 2025
Theatrical Stage Employees:
Working in theater production is physically demanding, and accidents can happen. That’s why striking workers at Atlantic Theater Company are fighting for guaranteed health benefits—because no one should have to put their body on the line without protections pic.twitter.com/2IvAkJhyCm
— IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) February 18, 2025
Transport Workers Union:
“Dispatchers @SunCountryAir approved a new contract that immediately raises pay by at least 36%. The TWU is the largest union for Air Dispatchers. We will always fight to advance our members.”@TwuSamuelsen
Read more below!
— TWU (@transportworker) February 14, 2025
Transportation Trades Department:
We applaud the swift and heroic actions of the train crew who helped escort passengers to safety. https://t.co/ZnK6iTsZtE
— TTD | America's Transportation Unions (@TTDAFLCIO) February 18, 2025
UAW:
We back each other up. 100%. That's what union strong means — and that's what it will take to win a great first contract. #Solidarity #StandUpVW pic.twitter.com/Dkab2VMslp
— UAW (@UAW) February 12, 2025
UNITE HERE:
BLACK HISTORY MONTH SPOTLIGHTS ✨
Rayshone Austin, Delaware North at Boston Logan Airport—
"I decided to become a Shop Steward because I was tired of the bosses mistreating people...We need to enforce the contract to make sure the bosses stay in line & treat all workers fairly." pic.twitter.com/vSFw9Akksj
— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) February 18, 2025
United Food and Commercial Workers:
Workers at the Gaylord Chemical plant in Tuscaloosa voted to join the ICWUC by an overwhelming margin!
In a right-to-work state like Alabama, this victory shows just how strong their push for better wages & conditions really is.
Let’s get to work!
➡️https://t.co/AobCdnc19p pic.twitter.com/wgjxgUdSjN
— UFCW (@UFCW) February 18, 2025
United Steelworkers:
We’re celebrating Black History Month by highlighting members like Earkiel Eaton Jr. He made history as the first Black president of Local 593 and helped launch Buffalo’s first Black Labor Week. In 2023, he was named District 4 Buffalo Activist of the Year! pic.twitter.com/q9hwRAK6zE
— United Steelworkers #EverybodysUnion (@steelworkers) February 18, 2025
Utility Workers:
Thank you to the federal workers at OSHA who help enforce workplace safety regulations!
Hat tip: UWUA Local 304 pic.twitter.com/MlXbkSlEfo
— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) February 19, 2025
Writers Guild of America East:
Congratulations to all the 77th Annual #WritersGuildAwards winners! View the full list: https://t.co/QVqrQWXmq7 pic.twitter.com/4e3aniKqow
— Writers Guild of America East (@WGAEast) February 16, 2025
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 02/19/2025 - 09:43Black History Month Profiles: Joe Diggs
For Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently actively making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Joe Diggs of the Communications Workers of America (CWA), and National Treasury Employees Union, AFGE.
Joe Diggs joined CWA Local 2300 in 1985 and went on to become a steward at Local 2300 and later CWA Local 2323. During his 12 years of working for the phone company, he earned his bachelor’s degree in labor relations from the University of Maryland. After 12 years, four strikes and two winning organizing campaigns, Diggs left to work for the National Treasury Employees Union. Then he joined AFGE, where he worked for 25 years. During that time, Diggs served CWA Local 2385 as a staff representative and contract negotiator. Diggs volunteered to start a chapter of the A. Philip Randolph Institute in Phoenix.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 02/19/2025 - 09:34Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Labor Defeats Right to Work Legislation in New Hampshire
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
In a win for working people, the latest version of “right to work” legislation introduced in the New Hampshire Legislature last week has been indefinitely postponed, effectively killing the bill.
Different iterations of House Bill 238-FN have been introduced dozens of times since the 1980s, all seeking to undermine union negotiating power and make New Hampshire the region’s only right to work state.
“For the fortieth consecutive time, so-called ‘Right-to-Work’ is dead,” said New Hampshire AFL-CIO President Glenn Brackett in a joint statement with other labor leaders. “Once again, today, a bipartisan coalition of legislators did their job, listened to their constituents, and voted to kill House Bill 238-FN, this year’s version of the fraudulently titled ‘Right-to-Work.’ Every new legislature for the last 40 years has seen this attack on workers’ rights and every legislature, regardless of which party is in the majority, has rejected it.”
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 02/19/2025 - 09:28I Stand With Workers, Not Billionaires: In the States Roundup
It's time once again to take a look at the ways working people are making progress in the states. Click on any of the links to follow the state federations on X (formerly Twitter).
Alaska AFL-CIO:
This Valentine’s Day, let’s celebrate the love and solidarity we share as a union family. Together, we fight for fair wages, better working conditions, and dignity for all workers. Let’s continue to show the love by standing up for one another. Happy Valentine’s Day! pic.twitter.com/KtViEdM5yc
— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) February 14, 2025
California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:
Huge thanks to Sacramento Assemblymember @maggykrell for showing up today to join @CaliforniaLabor in standing in solidarity with #SiemensWorkersUnited in their fight for a union and better future for their families! @ibbunion @IBEWlocal1245 @sacramentolabor https://t.co/xCLCUoYQJh pic.twitter.com/sGaL5gXPyF
— California Federation of Labor Unions (@CaliforniaLabor) February 11, 2025
Colorado AFL-CIO:
Five Secretaries Of Labor Champion SB-5, the Worker Protection Act, Urge Governor, legislators to expand worker freedom to negotiate for better pay and safety. #coleg #copolitics https://t.co/SK1YLh7kDa
— Colorado AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOCO) February 18, 2025
Connecticut AFL-CIO:
"Occupational cancer over the last 10 years has become the number one killer of firefighters and it currently accounts for nearly 75% of all line of duty deaths." –@UPFFA President Peter Brown on the need to create a dedicated funding source for the Firefighter Cancer Relief Fund pic.twitter.com/SvIGKYf9ME
— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) February 18, 2025
Florida AFL-CIO:
The Florida AFL-CIO and everyone in Florida's Labor community mourns the passing of Senator Geraldine Thompson. She was a true champion for Florida's working families and a defender of justice. pic.twitter.com/EPVybATDBS
— Florida AFL-CIO (@FLAFLCIO) February 14, 2025
Illinois AFL-CIO:
Markeisha is an up and coming organizer with @UFCW Local 881. In her eyes, #BlackHistoryMonth is a time to educate, agitate, organize and have the hard conversations that remind us why we're in the labor movement: to create an economy that works for all.#1u pic.twitter.com/vxSQz0Dfim
— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) February 18, 2025
Iowa Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO:
Thank you to all the union workers who are out in the elements keeping us safe! You keep Iowa running! #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/c7hgRWmBg6
— Iowa AFL-CIO ✊ (@IowaAFLCIO) February 12, 2025
Maine AFL-CIO:
Maine Republicans have submitted right-to-freeload bills every legislative session since 1948. Not a single Maine worker testified in support of this bill. Time for these national corporate lobbyists to pack it in & go home! pic.twitter.com/lI6DHSLGAT
— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) February 14, 2025
Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
Join us Tuesday, Feb. 25th to tell our elected officials that we oppose closing Pappas Rehab Hospital for Children & Pocasset Mental Health Center, reducing DMH Case Managers by 50%, & raising healthcare costs for state workers & retirees
RSVP here: https://t.co/4XUaEgvA2c pic.twitter.com/xkaNkbCdCX
— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) February 18, 2025
Michigan State AFL-CIO:
Elon Musk is putting hard-working people out of work, calling them parasites, and laughing while he does it. Interested in learning how you can fight back? Check it out 👇 pic.twitter.com/mVWrPr1L6i
— Michigan AFL-CIO ✊ (@MIAFLCIO) February 15, 2025
Minnesota AFL-CIO:
HealthPartners is dragging their feet in bargaining & has committed several Unfair Labor Practices. Tell executives & the board that it's time to bargain in good faith with @OPEIULocal12 workers. #BetterInAUnion https://t.co/5kOOeWaCxY
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) February 18, 2025
Missouri AFL-CIO:
Unelected and out-of-touch billionaires are threatening American Federal Workers. It’s time to stand up and say NO to the corporate greed that is trying to intimidate our #Union brothers and sisters. #Solidarity pic.twitter.com/JihlVl1UWo
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) February 18, 2025
Nevada State AFL-CIO:
Happy Presidents’ Day to our President Liz Sorenson!
Liz has served as president of the Nevada State AFL-CIO since 2017. She began her career over 40 years ago and in 1990 transferred to Nevada Bell, where she served as a steward, organizer, lobbyist & officer for CWA Local 9413 pic.twitter.com/OOxO9bbq5C
— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) February 17, 2025
New Hampshire AFL-CIO:
'Right-to-work' bill voted down once again #NHPolitics https://t.co/5Am3FNR6PK
— New Hampshire AFL-CIO (@NHAFLCIO) February 14, 2025
New York State AFL-CIO:
Thank you @RepNicole for your concerns, these vast proposed Medicaid cuts will have real world consequences. https://t.co/kVwdPuysDH
— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) February 18, 2025
North Carolina State AFL-CIO:
#FMLA turned 32 this week—used 500M times—but the U.S. is still one of only 6 countries without a national paid family leave program. Workers in NC lose $914M every year due to lack of #PaidLeave. Time to demand what we deserve! #WorkersRights #PaidLeaveForAll #Unionize pic.twitter.com/K7u8zLSowg
— NC State AFL-CIO // #CountMeIn (@NCStateAFLCIO) February 7, 2025
North Dakota AFL-CIO:
Take action for ND Kids: Universal Free School Meals for All ND Students. Write your Rep. here: https://t.co/BYu7A9emvu
— North Dakota AFL-CIO (@NDAFLCIO) February 6, 2025
Ohio AFL-CIO:
Let them know, @RepEmiliaSykes https://t.co/szi0U0Jay5
— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) February 11, 2025
Oregon AFL-CIO:
In response to Elon Musk’s anti-worker actions from the Department of Government Efficiency (DODGE), the AFL-CIO has created the Department of People Who Work for a Living (DPWL).
Ahead of DODGE’s first subcommittee, DPWL submitted testimony to chair Marjorie Taylor Green:…
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) February 13, 2025
Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:
Geisinger nurses are standing up for fair wages, safe staffing, and the respect they deserve. When nurses win, we all win! 💪🏥https://t.co/YncQqkSQOq
— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) February 8, 2025
Tennessee AFL-CIO Labor Council:
🚨 REGISTRATION OPEN🚨
Now in its 13th year, the Tennessee Shoot for a Cure Charity Sporting Clay Shoot is set for April 28th at Lone Oaks Farm. Once again, this always-popular event benefits both the March of Dimes and the Tennessee Members’ Assistance Program - pic.twitter.com/Ale1sFBNR0
— Tennessee AFL-CIO (@tnaflcio) February 18, 2025
<>Texas AFL-CIO:
🗣️ “It is one of the characteristics of a free and democratic modern nation that it have free and independent labor unions.”
This Presidents’ Day, we’re thinking of Texas workers, not out-of-touch oligarchs. #PresidentsDay pic.twitter.com/7fDQoBnHAk
— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) February 17, 2025
Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:
Congrats to our VP Dean Shelton! ✊ https://t.co/dUqF2XkFbk
— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) February 14, 2025
Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
Governor Evers prepares to deliver biennial budget address https://t.co/7Z6bO69eBR
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) February 18, 2025
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 02/18/2025 - 12:17Fighting Back Against DOGE Firings
Federal workers are the heart of our government, ensuring that critical services like Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits run smoothly. And with 85% of federal workers living outside the Washington, D.C., metro area, they’re also our friends, family members, and neighbors all across the country.
Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has put thousands of good, hardworking federal workers out of a job this week—jeopardizing the programs we all depend on.
The most powerful thing you can do right now is to put a face to the DOGE’s reckless cuts. If you are a worker, or the friend or family member of a worker affected by the DOGE, we want to hear more about who you are, how you’ve helped our country, and how the DOGE is impacting you.
You can share your story anonymously or connect with us to help get your story out for everyone to hear. Get started now: go.aflcio.org/worker-story.
Unions will fight for working people every step of the way, with every tool in our toolbox. But you have power, too. Thank you for standing shoulder to shoulder with the hardworking Americans who make our country run.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 02/18/2025 - 11:36Tags: Federal workers
Black History Month Profiles: Enika Blunt-McNair
For Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently actively making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Enika Blunt-McNair of the Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT).
Enika Blunt-McNair’s journey began during a conversation with her mother, who advised her to “get involved” if she wanted to understand the union. Blunt-McNair took that advice to heart, joining the negotiation team where she learned about collective bargaining and members' rights. Blunt-McNair served as co-chair and chairperson. Through her advocacy, Blunt-McNair defended members against unfair treatment and micromanagement, using union tools to protect jobs and ensure dignity for workers. Her leadership was especially impactful during the fight against Florida's S.B. 256, where she stood shoulder to shoulder with the union to push back against harmful legislation.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 02/18/2025 - 09:57Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Children’s Theatre Company Public Facing Staff Ratify First-Ever Contract With IATSE Local 13
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 13 workers ratified their first contract on Monday, February 3. The contract covers nearly 50 ushers, ticket takers, front of house associates, ticket office associates, performance supervisors and concessions leads. IATSE requested voluntary recognition and received it on January 15, 2024.
“While bargaining began slowly, we have appreciated the consistent attention to these negotiations from CTC throughout and since the company underwent a change in both the artistic and managing director roles last summer. We are pleased that our work together has produced meaningful gains for member employees and strengthened CTC’s workforce,” said an IATSE representative.
IATSE members focused on language protecting diversity and accessibility and the development of health and safety protections, which were agreed to in the contract.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 02/18/2025 - 09:35Black History Month Profiles: Glenda Armstrong
For Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently actively making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Glenda Armstrong of the General Association of Miramar Employees/OPEIU (GAME/OPEIU).
Glenda Armstrong is a member of GAME/OPEIU Local 101, working as a supervisor in the property and evidence unit of the city’s police department. A former president of the local, Armstrong’s career has spanned nearly three decades with the city of Miramar, Florida, and two decades with Local 101.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 02/17/2025 - 10:25Black History Month Profiles: Toni Burns
For Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently actively making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Toni Burns of the Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE).
Toni Burns has been a stagehand for IATSE Local 27 in Cleveland since 1994. He is a second-generation stagehand. He started his career as a high rigger, downrigger, head flyman and rose to a union steward. Burns was elected business manager for Local B27 from 2007 to the present. He is serving as an IATSE DEI member at large and a board member for Local 27 stagehands. In January 2024, Burns was elected as the 9th international vice president, becoming the first African American man to be elected to the IATSE General Executive Board.
Kenneth Quinnell Sun, 02/16/2025 - 10:25Black History Month Profiles: Aziza Miller
For Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently actively making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Aziza Miller of the American Federation of Musicians (AFM).
Aziza Miller is a longtime member of AFM Local 802 in NYC, where she currently appears on stage as a keyboardist in Alicia Keys’ Broadway musical “Hell’s Kitchen.” The show was inspired in part by Miller herself and just won a Grammy for Best Musical Theater Album. “My musical career is always growing and evolving,” she said. Her advice to up-and-coming musicians? "Stay focused. Remain open to learning. Don’t let perfection replace your heart and soul. Always stay humble and grateful. As for me, music is important because it’s life, my voice and my passion’s purpose!"
Kenneth Quinnell Sat, 02/15/2025 - 10:25‘Stand with Grocery Workers Who Are Overworked, Understaffed and Underpaid’: 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.
Wells Fargo Faces Labor Board Complaint Over Union Vote: “The National Labor Relations Board has accused Wells Fargo of illegally threatening and retaliating against employees and coercing workers to prevent fair unionization votes at a California branch. Most employees of an Atwater, California, branch who signed cards supporting unionization in December 2023 voted against unionization the following month, a regional director of the NLRB alleged, in a complaint filed Tuesday and seen by Bloomberg, The NLRB claims Wells Fargo coerced workers to vote against unionization. Wells Fargo has denied that allegation.”
Chicago History Museum Workers Want to Join an Arts Industry Unionization Wave: “About two dozen workers at the Chicago History Museum have signed a letter saying they plan to unionize. In the letter, issued Wednesday morning, the employees said they are seeking clear communication from management and competitive wages. The move is one in a wave of similar organizing efforts at other Chicago cultural institutions. The workers are organizing with the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, or AFSCME Council 31. Workers from the Art Institute of Chicago, the Field Museum and Newberry Library, among others, have joined that same union in recent years.”
‘Stand with Grocery Workers Who Are Overworked, Understaffed and Underpaid’: “For too long, the hardworking union grocery workers of Southern California have been overworked, understaffed, and underpaid. These essential workers, who showed up day in and day out during the pandemic to keep our communities fed, now find themselves struggling to make ends meet. With inflation driving up the cost of living at an alarming rate, it’s time for major grocery corporations—Kroger/Ralphs, Albertsons/Vons, Stater Bros., and Gelson’s—to step up and provide the fair wages and benefits that these workers have earned. Southern California UFCW Locals are gearing up for what will likely be the toughest round of negotiations in decades. Bargaining with Kroger/Ralphs and Albertsons/Vons kicks off on February 13, with Stater Bros. negotiations beginning on March 6. Dates with Gelson’s have yet to be scheduled, but our message to all these companies is the same: Grocery workers are rising for our futures, our families, and our communities.”
How Teachers Union Leaders Are Gearing Up for the ‘Resistance’: “Sure. So, ‘Resistance Committee’ is pretty much shorthand for ‘Committee to Help Everyone Have a Better Life.” I know that sounds very general, but AFT represents not just public education but also health care professionals and nurses. Particularly in this moment, where—you know, it began with hospitals and places of worship and schools being removed as sensitive sites—we really had to think about how we protect our students, families and patients.”
SEIU Hospital Workers Ratify Contract, Avert Possible Strike: “SEIU workers at UPMC Washington Hospital and UPMC have agreed to a new contract. According to a press release, the contract includes average raises of 12% over three years, with some workers getting as much as 19% raises over the life of the contract. The union said the new contract ‘is major progress from UPMC’s original proposal of a 1% raise per year.’ ‘Our new contract will help us support ourselves and our families with the increased cost of living. This proves that when health care workers unite and take action—even at a small community hospital—we can create concrete positive change,’ said Melissa Duran, the chapter president of SEIU Healthcare Pennsylvania at Washington Hospital, where she works as an EKG technician.”
Federal Workers, Lawmakers to Rally at Capitol Hill to Protect Civil Service: “Hundreds of federal workers are expected to gather on Capitol Hill Tuesday afternoon for the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) ‘Rally to Save the Civil Service.’ The event, part of AFGE’s annual legislative conference, aims to push back against efforts to politicize federal jobs.”
Retail Unions Are Gaining Ground as Employee Dissatisfaction Grows: “Americans are increasingly taking the side of workers as public opinion has turned overwhelmingly pro-union in recent years. Fifteen years ago, only about half of Americans approved of unions. Last year, it rose to 70%, just one percentage point below the 71% hit in 2022. That was a historic high since 1972 when Gallup began tracking union approval ratings annually.”
Union Leaders to Try Again on Rail Safety; Corporate Greed Sidetracked It: “Titus and Cassidy joined AFL-CIO Transportation Trades Department President Greg Regan, who organized the session, along with co-sponsoring Reps. Emilia Sykes, D-Ohio, and Chris Deluzio, D-Pa. Rep. Troy Nehls, R-Texas, sent a short video. All but Nehls discussed the massive Norfolk Southern derailment and venting of toxic chemicals into the. air and water precisely two years before, on Feb. 3, 2023, in East Palestine, Ohio. ‘The people of eastern Ohio have suffered so much from corporate greed,’ Sykes said. ‘Our greatest fear is a train derailment can become a mass casualty event. But we have yet to see meaningful reform out of Congress’ to force railroads to put safety and people over profits, said Regan.”
As Off Broadway Crews Unionize, Workers See Hope, Producers Peril: “A unionization wave sweeping across Off Broadway is poised to reshape the economics of theater-making in New York—for workers as well as producers. Striking stage crews have idled the nonprofit Atlantic Theater Company—the birthplace of the musicals ‘Spring Awakening,’ ‘The Band’s Visit’ and ‘Kimberly Akimbo,’ which all transferred to Broadway and won Tonys. The strike, which began last month, comes amid a drive to unionize stage hands and crews at Off Broadway theaters. The drive is being spearheaded by the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, or IATSE, which represents workers on Broadway and in Hollywood. It has won union contracts at two long-running commercial Off Broadway shows: The crew of ‘Titaníque,’ a musical that spoofs the film ‘Titanic’ and the pop star Celine Dion, approved a contract last October, and the crew at ‘Little Shop of Horrors,’ a revival of the sci-fi musical comedy, did so in January.”
First Labor Official Ousted from NLRB in 90 Years Is Now Suing Trump. Hear Why: “Former National Labor Relations Board member Gwynne Wilcox speaks to CNN’s Victor Blackwell after being fired by President Donald Trump, making her the first member of the board to be removed in 90 years. Wilcox called her firing “unprecedented” and has since filed a federal lawsuit.”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 02/14/2025 - 11:16Black History Month Profiles: Dominique Drew
For Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently actively making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Dominique Drew of the Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT).
Dominique Drew started in the union on her 18th birthday. And 22 years later, she’s built a rewarding career as an architectural metal and glass worker. When she discovered IUPAT’s Black CORE Committee, she had finally found a platform to make an impact within her union as a woman of color. She has flourished in her journey, becoming the co-chair of the Black CORE Committee, chairperson of CBTU's Under 40 Leaders and co-chair of Leaders Under 40 NYC Chapter. Currently, she serves as a member engagement specialist for IUPAT.
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: AFT and NEA Rally to Protect Students and Public Education
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 afternoon, the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) and the National Education Association (NEA) rallied in Washington, D.C., to protect students and our public schools.
Educators, parents, lawmakers and community leaders gathered to stand up for our schools in the face of funding attacks and policies that put politics before students. This demonstration came after the AFT held a press conference in the morning calling for Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, to be barred from accessing sensitive Department of Education data.
“Inside the Education Department, the world’s richest man and his minions have been rifling through 45 million people’s private student loan accounts and feeding the data into artificial intelligence in one of the biggest data hacks in U.S. history,” said AFT President Randi Weingarten. “That’s why this week, we sued the Education Department, [Office of Personnel Management] and Treasury for violating the Privacy Act by improperly disclosing the sensitive records of millions of Americans to DOGE staff.”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 02/14/2025 - 10:09Black History Month Profiles: Chancelle Mulela
For Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently actively making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Chancelle Mulela of the Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE).
Chancelle Mulela has been an IATSE Local 634 member for two years, working as a make-up artist. She has been a guest speaker with Reel Canada, a nonprofit organization based in Toronto dedicated to the presentation of Canadian films in Canadian schools, and encourages students to consider a career in film. She actively serves on Local 634’s DEI Committee and is currently working on establishing a young workers committee for the local.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 02/13/2025 - 10:18Worker Wins: "Standing Together for the Future of Our Profession"
Our latest roundup of worker wins includes numerous examples of working people organizing, bargaining and mobilizing for a better life.
First Avenue Workers Ratify Collective Bargaining Agreement: UNITE HERE Local 17 members who work at Minneapolis’ legendary music venue First Avenue and its six Twin Cities sister clubs have unanimously ratified their first-ever contract. The 230-person bargaining unit covers service and event staff across the seven different locations—a majority of whom are non-tipped workers. UNITE HERE reported that the new contract includes major victories for staff like wage increases, longevity pay, improvements to scheduling practices, better safety policies, protections for LGBTQIA+ workers and more. “I’ve watched a lot of my best friends leave the club because the job wasn’t sustainable or they didn’t feel respected, but this contract makes a lot of steps to change that,” said First Avenue event staffer Kyle Tappe. “I’ve been pinching money at the end of the month for as long as I can remember, and the raises will make things significantly easier for me.”
New York Magazine Walkout Averted as Union Secures Tentative Deal: Editorial staff at New York magazine—who are part of The NewsGuild of New York, CWA Local 31003—have successfully averted a strike after reaching a tentative agreement (TA) Friday with parent company Vox Media. Members of the New York Magazine Union, which include writers, editors, copy editors, fact-checkers, photo editors, designers and producers, will be voting on the TA later this month. The deal includes double-digit wage increases over the life of the contract, a ratification bonus, safeguards against the usage of artificial intelligence and more. “Guild members fought for new contract terms that reflect their commitment to building a newsroom that recognizes the value they bring to New York Magazine and Vox Media,” said Susan DeCarava, president of The NewsGuild of New York, in a press release. “Our New York Magazine Union members would not accept anything less than a fair contract that builds on the success of prior agreements and improves workplace terms and conditions. This contract more than achieves that goal.”
PS Workers Win Recognition as Part of Vox Media Union: Editorial staff at PS (formerly Popsugar) have successfully won voluntary recognition from parent company Vox Media and are now members of the Vox Media Union, part of the Writers Guild of America East (WGAE). The 20-person newsroom stood together with the larger Vox Media Union bargaining unit on the first day of negotiations to demand that they too be covered under the contract. The union, which now includes PS workers, are fighting for fair wages that keep up with the rising cost of living, a commitment to diversity initiatives, artificial intelligence safeguards and enhanced protections in the event of layoffs. PS workers said in a press release: “This marks a significant step forward in our efforts. We are encouraged that the company has listened to our concerns and made the right decision by voluntarily recognizing PS as part of the Vox Media Union. We look forward to joining our colleagues across the organization and are optimistic about a productive bargaining season ahead.”
UFCW Local 400 Secures Settlements Over Wage Theft and Discrimination: United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 400 has successfully won financial settlements from Union Kitchen and Mom's Organic Market on behalf of members who have been victims of wage theft and discrimination, respectively. At the ironically named Union Kitchen, Local 400 filed a lawsuit in March 2023 against the boutique convenience store chain and its owner for withholding tips left by customers in its Washington, D.C., stores that were intended for staff. The settlement included $133,333.34 for 79 impacted members and a requirement for Union Kitchen to pay the union’s attorneys’ fees. After staff at the Mom’s College Park, Maryland, location voted to join the UFCW, management sent an email announcing pay raises and other workplace improvements for all employees except those at the newly organized store. This was a violation of federal law, prompting Local 400 to file an unfair labor practice (ULP) charge, which resulted in a settlement of $17,302.67 to compensate 74 workers. “Our union is committed to protecting workers from unscrupulous bosses who are willing to violate their employees’ rights and break the law instead of properly compensating them for their hard work,” said Mark Federici, president of Local 400. “We’d like to thank the workers who took a stand and participated in this lawsuit for holding Union Kitchen accountable for its unlawful practices.” President Federici also said: “Given its reputation and purported values, we expected much better from MOM’s Organic Market, so we were especially disappointed that the company chose to violate the law and discriminate against its own employees. But no matter the employer, our union will always fight to protect our members’ rights and hold bosses accountable for breaking the law.”
Nurses at 3 Portland Legacy Hospitals Win Union Election: Nearly 2,300 nurses across three Legacy Health facilities in Portland, Oregon, have voted to join the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA), an affiliate of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT). The decisive victories at Legacy Emanuel Medical Center, Randall Children's Hospital and Good Samaritan Medical Center mean that workers are one step closer to being able to bargain over critical issues like patient care and safe staffing. This win comes as their fellow ONA members at Providence hospitals and medical centers across Oregon continue to fight for fair contracts that provide fair compensation and sustainable working conditions. “This victory is about nurses standing together for the future of our profession, our patients, and our hospitals,” said Sarah Zavala, an Emanuel nurse leader, in a press release. “We’re ready to build a strong contract that protects and empowers nurses so we can continue to provide the best care possible.”
Denver Anti-Hunger Nonprofit Votes to Join Union: Workers at the nonprofit Metro Caring are celebrating their near-unanimous election to join the Denver Newspaper Guild, CWA Local 37074. Now organized under the name Metro Caring Workers United, a supermajority of the staff signed union authorization cards and requested voluntary recognition back in December 2024. The nonprofit was founded to help address food insecurity in the Denver-metro area and the staff who work there hope that by forming a union, they can better preserve the organization’s mission and sustain their critical work. “I’m incredibly proud to have been part of the Metro Caring Workers United team as we worked toward certification of our union with the NewsGuild-CWA,” said Lucor Jordan, a member of the MCWU Bargaining Committee and founding member of the union. “While I’ve never been part of a union before, throughout my working life I’ve received the benefit of the work that unions put in over past generations protecting workers and helping to provide a safe, dignified work environment. I’m now proud to be part of a new chapter in the non-profit sector.”
UP Health System–Marquette Workers Ratify First Contract: After months of negotiations, United Steelworkers (USW) members who work for UP Health System–Marquette recently ratified their first union contract. The unit includes staff who work as licensed practical nurses (LPNs), care aides, lab assistants, payroll, IT, maintenance, office staff, and in other critical roles at the specialty care facility. Workers started organizing in 2023, with many expressing frustration with a decline in workplace satisfaction dating back to when the hospital was acquired by Duke LifePoint Healthcare in 2014. Contract wins include historic wage increases, higher on-call pay, capped annual health insurance premiums, improved safety protections and more. “UPHS Marquette is five blocks from my house,” said USW District 1 staff representative Bryan Fisher. “It’s the only Level 2 trauma center in the [Upper Peninsula] of Michigan. Our goal was always to attract and retain the best employees for Marquette residents. If I get taken to this hospital, these workers will care for me. I want a team of talented, fully-trained, well-compensated medical professionals administering care to our community.”
UNITE HERE Fights to Pass Ordinance to Protect Job Security: UNITE HERE Local 1 members are celebrating a proposal that is advancing to the Evanston City Council that will give more job security to hospitality and food service contract workers at Northwestern University. The Worker Retention Ordinance would ensure that the essential workers who cook, clean and maintain the private research university will not be fired if their contractor is replaced. Just a few years ago, in 2018, hundreds of staff found their jobs in jeopardy when Northwestern replaced its food service operators with its current contractor, Compass Group. The city’s Human Services Committee unanimously approved moving the ordinance to council members on Wednesday after hearing testimony from several UNITE HERE members. “I’m proud to serve the Northwestern community. No matter who the contractor is, I deserve to continue working at the campus I have called home for so many years,” said Rosa Villaseñor, who has been a hospitality worker at Northwestern for 15 years.
Lancaster Journalists Win Union Election: Journalists at LancasterOnline and the WITF public radio station voted to form a union this past Monday with The NewsGuild of Greater Philadelphia, Local 38010 of the Communications Workers of America (CWA). In 2023, the Steinman family, who owned LancasterOnline (LNP), gifted the news organization to the Harrisburg-based NPR affiliate, WITF. Workers planned to form a union after management laid off 10% of its staff one month after the new management took over. CEO Ron Hetrick had previously told news staff that the company wouldn’t reduce its workforce for five years. “When we approached the Guild in November, a lot of people were unhappy with recent changes in our leadership and in our newsroom,” said LNP investigative reporter Brett Sholtis. “But this quickly became about so much more than that. We want to make sure we’re able to keep serving the community. We all brought different things to the table, but we have been united in our belief that joining The NewsGuild is the very best way to ensure the future of news in Lancaster and central Pennsylvania for years to come.”
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 02/12/2025 - 13:01Tags: Organizing
The Time to Stand: 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:
We are currently accepting nominations for the 2025 Paul Robeson Award! Know an individual or organization that best exemplifies and practices the principles and ideals of Paul Robeson, please submit nominations by Wednesday, February 26, 2025 - https://t.co/bYVtsxMzdE pic.twitter.com/jIZosDKRMh
— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) February 8, 2025
AFGE:
This is the time to STAND! Thank you for your continuous support @RevDrBarber. pic.twitter.com/xRb0K229J0
— AFGE (@AFGENational) February 11, 2025
AFSCME:
HAPPENING NOW: We’re on Capitol Hill alongside@AFGENational, @NTEUnews, @TheNLRBU and union members to send a clear message to Elon Musk & DOGE — HANDS OFF public services! pic.twitter.com/reIhARICmt
— AFSCME (@AFSCME) February 11, 2025
Alliance for Retired Americans:
Expanding Medicaid actually helps spur economic growth! https://t.co/8qd9WHhYRc
— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) February 10, 2025
Amalgamated Transit Union:
Make your Valentine's Day Union-Made. #valentinesday #UnionMade pic.twitter.com/Q4sZhfnxMX
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) February 11, 2025
American Federation of Musicians:
AFM Stands United -- Solidarity Across Borders
The American Federation of Musicians is proud to be a union that includes members in both Canada and the United States. Our strength is the solidarity between our two countries. We stand in opposition to any actions, whether from… pic.twitter.com/H4M84XoDfM
— AFM (@The_AFM) February 5, 2025
American Federation of Teachers:
"We should not be fearful of the next generation. We should give them the support they need."
Watch & share:@rweingarten joined @TheRevAl on @PoliticsNation to discuss Trump's attack on the Department of Education. https://t.co/8hSttwjgu4
— AFT (@AFTunion) February 10, 2025
American Postal Workers Union:
In this latest podcast, President Dimondstein sat down with APWU leadership on a variety of topics:
▶️ Legislative/Political Director Judy Beard shares membership efforts that led to the passage of the Social Security Fairness Act;
▶️ Retirees Director Nancy Olumekor goes in… pic.twitter.com/UsbrysJGsA
— The American Postal Workers Union - APWU (@APWUnational) February 10, 2025
Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:
Proud to stand with our @AFGENational Union siblings in keeping corporate greed and billionaires OUT of the federal workforce! #1u pic.twitter.com/8XE0tcTcYx
— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) February 11, 2025
Boilermakers:
As we celebrate #BlackHistoryMonth, we examine the #Boilermakers history. Read the first in a series about the Boilermakers, race and auxiliary lodges https://t.co/TIpuGjbKXD pic.twitter.com/Ey3BI5B0Eh
— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) February 6, 2025
Bricklayers:
Trying to make college tuition cheaper? Apply for the US Bates Scholarship!
The BAC annually awards three scholarships to students whose parents or step-parents are US BAC members. The stipends are $5,000 per year for up to four years.
Full details here https://t.co/dEX5O569OY pic.twitter.com/wU2y21Gk0D
— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) February 11, 2025
Communications Workers of America:
Last month, CWA members and retirees across the country took time to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. For decades, CWAers have taken action to further the ideals of inclusivity and equity both within CWA and nationally. https://t.co/gqYUpcJcuK
— CWA (@CWAUnion) February 9, 2025
Department for Professional Employees:
Watch Angela, an @OPEIU member at IRC discuss her experience talking to coworkers about forming a union pic.twitter.com/k6xqmHZTQx
— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) February 10, 2025
Electrical Workers:
For the 33rd time, #IBEW broadcast professionals will bring the #Superbowl to the nation. pic.twitter.com/dPov4hYeVc
— IBEW (@IBEW) February 9, 2025
Heat and Frost Insulators:
A Lasting Legacy 🕊️
Hear from members of Leadership, as we reflect on the life of Dr. Glenn Perušek's & his positive contributions to our Union.
➡️Read now on pages 16-17 in the Winter Journal: https://t.co/dNNp9AID3m#InsulatorsUnion #Insulators #InsulatorPride pic.twitter.com/N4xJ84osSh
— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) February 7, 2025
International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers:
Matt Biggs, President of the IFPTE, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss pressing issues facing federal workers following the start of President Trump’s second term in office. https://t.co/UUv14tDn9e
— IFPTE (@IFPTE) February 3, 2025
Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:
📣 This week, the LCLAA Twin Cities Chapter hosted a community event to informed our members, workers, and their families, about their rights and how to be prepared during this challenging times 💪 pic.twitter.com/sq4BtUbD1Q
— LCLAA (@LCLAA) February 7, 2025
Labor Heritage Foundation:
LHT Podcast
The story of Carmelita Torres, the "Latina Rosa Parks,"https://t.co/n1iCoaillH pic.twitter.com/G4BJLA9N4i
— Labor Heritage (@LaborHeritage1) February 9, 2025
Laborers:
#DYK? In 2023, #LIUNA members in Michigan took on #RightToWork and WON—bringing back prevailing wages for hardworking laborers!
When we fight TOGETHER, we WIN. This is what we call union POWER in action! #FeelThePower #RTWisWRONG pic.twitter.com/1cW08YsMak
— LIUNA (@LIUNA) February 11, 2025
Machinists:
Labor will always stand up and fight back when we, the people, are under attack.
This is OUR government. We want it staffed and stable. We trust federal workers who dedicated their lives to civil service over a billionaire EVERY DAY. pic.twitter.com/XOWAhslrVK
— Machinists Union (@MachinistsUnion) February 11, 2025
Maritime Trades Department:
Support for Domestic Maritime Evident in U.S. House Hearinghttps://t.co/gCTYeEj6HC
— Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO (@Maritime_Trades) February 7, 2025
Metal Trades Department:
Groton-based submarine maker Electric Boat announces plan to hire 3K in 2025. About 400 new employees would work at the company’s shipyard in Groton. https://t.co/Mcyxz02BIF
— Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) February 4, 2025
Musical Artists:
AGMA Black Caucus announces February Meeting, honoring Black History Month. All Black AGMA Artists are invited to attend: https://t.co/kcflh0v9Ea pic.twitter.com/NIddZpXiBt
— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) February 6, 2025
National Air Traffic Controllers Association:
For February, the 2025 NATCA wall calendar features a photo of Allegheny County Airport and ATCT (AGC) taken by local member Dan Fostel.
To have your facility featured in the 2026 calendar, submit photos here. https://t.co/eLpzliAG6F pic.twitter.com/YzXEQj19Jl
— NATCA (@NATCA) February 11, 2025
National Association of Letter Carriers:
The #StampOutHunger Food Drive is just 3 months away. 📅On Saturday, May 10, set out non-perishable food by your mailbox for your letter carrier to collect. Since 1993, the members of NALC have helped fill food pantries nationwide. We couldn't do it without your support! pic.twitter.com/DO073cJEEF
— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) February 10, 2025
National Domestic Workers Alliance:
Domestic workers in California won life-saving protections amid the wildfires.
But there are still more health and safety protections needed for workers tasked with cleaning up hazardous waste. Read more in @MorePerfectUS's Substack: https://t.co/LvvH9fpeGh
— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) February 10, 2025
National Federation of Federal Employees:
Over the weekend, National President Randy Erwin joined CNN Newsroom Primetime to tell Americans why erratically downsizing the federal workforce would be a disaster for our members and the country.
Watch now: https://t.co/Tdtcaay7e4 pic.twitter.com/QyatZiVC9g
— NFFE (@NFFE_Union) February 10, 2025
National Nurses United:
Our first #MedicareForAll National Strategy Call of 2025 is rapidly approaching!
Join us Wednesday to hear about how we can fight back against the many threats facing the public health care system under the new presidential administration.https://t.co/doWyaLKLYv pic.twitter.com/3BGON3Czh9
— NationalNursesUnited (@NationalNurses) February 10, 2025
NWSL Players Association:
We stand with the LCMC Nurses and all @NationalNurses https://t.co/4vXx7Ztlcw
— NWSLPA (@nwsl_players) February 7, 2025
NFL Players Association:
Mental health is wealth 🧠
Our first Be Well event brought together mental health professionals, equipping them with resources to best serve our player members through a panel, resource fair and breathing session. pic.twitter.com/ojhfIpTp8u
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) February 9, 2025
North America's Building Trades Unions:
Workers know the truth: unions are the path to better wages, benefits, and job security.https://t.co/EtM05KAgzb pic.twitter.com/WJNld5DSqm
— The Building Trades (@NABTU) February 6, 2025
Office and Professional Employees:
Glenda Armstrong is a member of the General Association of Miramar Employees (GAME)/OPEIU Local 101. A former president of the local, Armstrong’s career has spanned nearly 30 years with the City of Miramar, Fla., and two decades with Local 101. #BlackHistoryMonth pic.twitter.com/PAAZGKCUQ7
— OPEIU | #UnionStrong (@OPEIU) February 7, 2025
Painters and Allied Trades:
DC14 held a 2-day Advanced Spray Class for journey workers and apprentices to practice and gain real-world experience with advanced painting technology.
Our training centers are at the top of the industry by providing our members with skills and job readiness! pic.twitter.com/Q9PqQwdmK8
— IUPAT (@GoIUPAT) February 11, 2025
Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:
Enacting the Retail Worker Safety Act we pushed for is critical to protecting our members & workers across the industry. @GovKathyHochul came by our packed Local 1-S Macy’s workers membership meeting today to speak with us about how the bill is being implemented & answer q’s. pic.twitter.com/C6UdaYeNEk
— RWDSU (@RWDSU) February 11, 2025
Roofers and Waterproofers:
If there are cellular antennas on your job, you may be exposed to radiofrequency (RF) radiation. One symptom of exposure to RF is dizziness, which can lead to a fall. Learn how to protect yourself: https://t.co/2Rv9mvICkO #roofersafety365 pic.twitter.com/4ZSNXpI1Xl
— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) February 10, 2025
SAG-AFTRA:
SAG-AFTRA offers its condolences to friends & family on the passing of Tony Roberts, a former National & NY Local Board member. The Tony-nominee was an accomplished performer on stage & screen, & a distinguished union leader. #SagAftraMember since 1962 https://t.co/8TigJ0MZPZ
— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) February 10, 2025
Service Employees International Union (SEIU):
LA County members are gearing up, training, and getting strike-ready to take on unfair labor practices. When we fight together, we win! https://t.co/S2uweb0RTc
— SEIU (@SEIU) February 10, 2025
The NewsGuild-CWA:
📚🔥 We Are the Union by @_ericblanc is out now—and it features The NewsGuild!
This book dives into the worker-to-worker organizing model that wins! RSVP here to join us for the book talk with the author and Guild members:
📅 Feb 25th @ 6PM ET
📍 https://t.co/uTeRY5ycfo
— The NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) February 7, 2025
Theatrical Stage Employees:
THE SUPER BOWL HALFTIME SHOW IS UNION MADE!
Shout out to @kendricklamar, and all the performers and behind the scenes workers that made this go off without a hitch! pic.twitter.com/9Ialfeks1I
— IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) February 10, 2025
Transport Workers Union:
Keeping Miami-Dade Transit rail cars rolling. @Twu291Rail Car Mechanics and Technicians at work at the Lehman Center maintenance facility in the @CityofMiami @IRideMDT
TWU 💪@TwuSamuelsen pic.twitter.com/K4q9L3IVDm
— TWU (@transportworker) February 6, 2025
Transportation Trades Department:
Labor history is black history.
During #BlackHistoryMonth, we honor the sacrifices that black workers made for liberation, and the labor movement continues to fight for economic and racial justice. pic.twitter.com/H4LqsgB8Ug
— TTD | America's Transportation Unions (@TTDAFLCIO) February 10, 2025
UAW:
Yesterday, UAW President Shawn Fain spent time on the shop floor at his home plant, Kokomo Casting, Local 1166. President Fain visited with Region 2B Director Dave Green and Stellantis Department Director, Kevin Gotinksy. pic.twitter.com/rnnGmRxOnL
— UAW (@UAW) February 11, 2025
UNITE HERE:
Super Bowl LIX is here, and we'd like to shout out the stadium workers of @unitehere23 who'll be serving up all your game day needs. No matter who you’re cheering for, the bartenders, servers, utility, and concessions workers will make sure you have a great game day experience! pic.twitter.com/5a6tfDdaH5
— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) February 9, 2025
United Food and Commercial Workers:
UFCW members make #SBLIX happen! 🏈
From UFCW Local 1546 Horween Leather workers crafting the footballs to grocery workers stocking your game-day favorites, we’ve got you covered for #SuperBowlSunday! pic.twitter.com/s2d5uwUSE0
— UFCW (@UFCW) February 9, 2025
United Steelworkers:
Our Black History Month spotlights continue with Jennifer Beard!
A true union activist since 2001, she’s president of Local 13-1327, involved in health & safety, Women of Steel, Veterans of Steel & more. She teaches because knowledge is power & honors those who paved the way. pic.twitter.com/msrboAyYvm
— United Steelworkers #EverybodysUnion (@steelworkers) February 11, 2025
Utility Workers:
✊🏽✊🏻✊🏿✊🏼✊🏾 Sending #solidarity to Michigan State Utility Workers Council members who are gearing up, quite literally, for contract negotiations! #UnionStrong #ItsBetterInAUnion pic.twitter.com/c8ptWUZgc0
— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) February 11, 2025
Writers Guild of America East:
We are thrilled to welcome workers at PS into the @vox_union after they won voluntary recognition from management!
We continue to demand @thedodounion be included as #oneuniononecontract. pic.twitter.com/dqqWNACn4S
— Writers Guild of America East (@WGAEast) February 10, 2025
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 02/12/2025 - 11:33Black History Month Profiles: Julian Ware
For Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently actively making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Julian Ware of the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE).
Julian Ware is from IFPTE Local 21, representing public sector workers across the San Francisco Bay Area. Ware serves as the vice president for Local 21 Oakland on the executive board, where he has served for the past several years. In addition to his roles as a board member, he continues his work as a steward. He has been an employee of the city of Oakland's IT Department since 2002, performing spatial analysis to empower the community. Ware is a San Francisco native and continues to reside there with his wife and two children.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 02/12/2025 - 09:50Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Workers at First Avenue and Sister Clubs Ratify First Union Contract, Secure 'Big' Raises
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.
Workers at legendary Minneapolis music club First Avenue and its six sister clubs in the Twin Cities ratified their first-ever union contract in a unanimous vote. The 230 event and service staff are now represented by UNITE HERE Local 17. In addition to First Avenue, the contract also covers Minneapolis clubs 7th Street Entry, Union Depot, and Fine Line, as well as St. Paul venues Fitzgerald Theater, Palace Theater and Turf Club. The three-year contract includes "big raises," longevity pay, improved scheduling, training and safety policies and protections for LGBTQ+ workers.
First Avenue, in its 55th year of operation, is one of the most hallowed music clubs in the country, because of its connection to Prince, who featured it prominently in his hit 1985 movie "Purple Rain."
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 02/12/2025 - 09:30Tags: Organizing
Black History Month Profiles: Walter D. Andrews
For Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently actively making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Walter D. Andrews of the Communications Workers of America (CWA).
Walter D. Andrews was born in Atlanta and served in the U.S. Air Force before joining Southern Bell in 1978. That same year, he began his activism with CWA Local 3204. Andrews made history as the first African American executive vice president and president of Local 3204, serving in these roles for nine years. He also held leadership positions with the AFL-CIO, CWA's National Minority Caucus and other labor committees. Andrews' long list of achievements includes receiving the Eugene Mays Award, the Martin Luther King Jr. Medal of Freedom and the Presidential Humanitarian Award from President Joe Biden in 2024.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 02/11/2025 - 10:30
