Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Friends of Youth Staff Join Together with OPEIU
Working people across the United States have stepped 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 Friends of Youth voted overwhelmingly for representation with Office and Professional Employees (OPEIU) Local 8. The group of 125 youth specialists, case managers, therapists, on-call staff, coordinators, administrative staff, facilities and other classifications in Seattle are devoted to providing youth and families with critical services, including shelter, supportive housing, transitional housing, rapid re-housing, housing navigation support, safe place and street outreach, and behavioral health services. They are seeking to ensure greater equity and transparency, and to have the ability to participate more fully in decisions that impact the community they serve.
“I am excited for this new opportunity to work collaboratively with our senior and executive leaders in a way my co-workers have never been allowed to before,” said Eric Tilton, youth specialist. “The staff at Friends of Youth hold so much knowledge about the needs of the youth we serve because of how closely we work with our clients. I am excited for us to finally be able to use that knowledge to advocate for better working conditions for ourselves, as well as better services for our clients.”
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 02/26/2024 - 10:02Black History Month Profiles: Linda Powell
This year, for Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active 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 Linda Powell of SAG-AFTRA.
As vice chair of SAG-AFTRA’s TV/Theatrical negotiating committee, Linda Powell played an integral role in the union’s recent strike and subsequent contract ratification. A national board member since 2012, her election in October to executive vice president makes her the first African American person to serve in the union's top tier of leadership. Powell also serves as a trustee of the SAG-AFTRA health and pension plans and chair of the board of advisers to the Colin Powell School for Civic and Global Leadership at the City College of New York, and she is a proud member of Actors' Equity Association (Equity).
Kenneth Quinnell Sun, 02/25/2024 - 10:17Tags: Black History Month
Black History Month Profiles: Willie E. Haywood
This year, for Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active 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 Willie E. Haywood of AFGE.
Willie E. Haywood Jr. is a Navy veteran who began his work as an AFGE lifetime advocate at the Louis Stokes Cleveland Veterans Administration (VA) Medical Center, where he held various positions within AFGE Local 31. He retired from the VA Medical Center in 2006 and continued his position and dedicated duties as the 6th District president of AFGE National VA Council 262 until May 2023. He always had the passion and will to fight for bargaining unit employees, and he had the honor of being a part of the midterm bargaining committee at the national level. Haywood always volunteers during election season with phone banking and post card writing. He is always willing to join in informational pickets in support of union causes.
Kenneth Quinnell Sat, 02/24/2024 - 10:10Tags: Black History Month
Black History Month Profile: Chey Smith
This year, for Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active 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 Chey Smith, an organizer with the Laborers International Union of North America (LIUNA) who worked on the passage of a community-benefits agreement in St. Pete.
Audrey Edmonds Fri, 02/23/2024 - 13:28Tags: Black History Month
Black History Month Profiles: Myia Brown
This year, for Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active 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 Myia Brown of the Art Institute of Chicago Workers United (AICWU) who was part of AICWU's first bargaining team as they bargained their first contract.
Audrey Edmonds Fri, 02/23/2024 - 13:16Tags: Black History Month
Black History Month Profiles: Sylvia McKenzie
This year, for Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active 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 Sylvia McKenzie of the Office & Professional Employees (OPEIU).
Sylvia McKenzie is an OPEIU Local 30 steward at Kaiser Permanente, where she works as a health unit coordinator. Reflecting on what Black History Month means to her, she said, “We need to recognize what we as a people have been through. Instead of being against each other, we need to help each other.”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 02/23/2024 - 10:10Tags: Black History Month
Vote Labor: 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:
“I’ve taught for seven years, and my retirement wouldn’t even last me, like, a few months,” said Hughes, 28. “So I know that my time here is going to have to come to an end at some point, probably sooner than later.” #akleg #PensionsForPublicService https://t.co/6jfktXeKbq
— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) February 21, 2024
California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:
Up and down the entire state, hundreds of union members showed up and showed out for Labor endorsed candidates this weekend. From the frontlines of the picket to the front door of voters, Labor leads the way! 🗳️✊#VOTELABOR pic.twitter.com/IDMRJegYyQ
— California Labor Federation (@CaliforniaLabor) February 12, 2024
Connecticut AFL-CIO:
.@NelpNews Senior Researcher Amy Traub testifying in support of #UIforStrikingWorkers: "This legislation is consistent with the long-standing core purposes of the unemployment insurance program and would have powerful benefits for workers, families, and communities across CT." pic.twitter.com/hmSOmlgSVU
— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) February 22, 2024
Florida AFL-CIO:
Each week during legislative session, a new group of union members across the state come to Tallahassee to lobby our state legislators on issues that matter to working class Floridians.
Ladies and gentlemen, this week's Working Families Lobby Corps! ✊✊✊ pic.twitter.com/b8CT1u1lhp
— Florida AFL-CIO (@FLAFLCIO) February 21, 2024
Georgia State AFL-CIO:
🚌 From breakfast to the Capitol, we've got Feb 22 planned. Stand against S.B. 362 with us. Register now: [Link in bio] #MarchWithUs #OpposeSB362 #Georgia #Atlanta #georgialabor #joinus #yourvoiceisneeded pic.twitter.com/NSAcLOdrUw
— Georgia AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOGeorgia) February 21, 2024
Illinois AFL-CIO:
Shateveon Goforth is an @IBEW Local 51 draftsperson.
She credits her union with helping her family enter the middle class and knows that the training and union benefits will continue to benefit her and her colleagues for years to come.#BlackHistoryMonth #1u pic.twitter.com/OhWaAX5IMi
— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) February 22, 2024
Indiana State AFL-CIO:
Moving commentary here about what really happens when child labor regulations are rolled back. We should be doing everything we can to protect any young person who works, not loosening the rules to benefit solely their employers. https://t.co/WvbQB6wpLz
— Indiana AFL-CIO (@INAFLCIO) February 13, 2024
Maine AFL-CIO:
Congratulations to our new Union Construction Academy of Maine Graduates! #UnionsBuildMaine pic.twitter.com/40x5qs9qIn
— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) February 15, 2024
Maryland State and D.C. AFL-CIO:
"Men and women working in Maryland’s work zones are more than just a number. They are parents, siblings, friends and so much more, and they should be able to return home safely after a day’s work." https://t.co/fUXPVDWX92
— Maryland State and DC AFL-CIO (@MDDCStateFed) February 16, 2024
Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
Don't miss WILD in the Winter 2024 - Women's Poverty: Global and Local Connections
🕐Saturday, March 9th from 9:30AM-3:00PM
📍 108 Myrtle St., Quincy, MA 02171
Register at https://t.co/IOErllL54i pic.twitter.com/F5mYRM4Vh1
— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) February 20, 2024
Michigan State AFL-CIO:
“This moment has been decades in the making,” declared Michigan AFL-CIO President Ron Bieber. “By standing up and taking their power back, workers have made it clear Michigan is and always will be the beating heart of the modern American labor movement.”https://t.co/HrRvBhL8V8
— Michigan AFL-CIO ✊ (@MIAFLCIO) February 18, 2024
Minnesota AFL-CIO:
This Union Wants Meatpacking Companies to Foot the Bill for Child Labor Prevention https://t.co/pkBCzyj4vY (via @workdaymagazine) #1u @UFCW663
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) February 22, 2024
Missouri AFL-CIO:
#Unions stepped up, spoke out, and won countless contracts in 2023 thanks to #Workers standing in #Solidarity on the picket lines! #1u #UnionStrong #UnionProud pic.twitter.com/MUNF4BZkET
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) February 21, 2024
Montana State AFL-CIO:
Sign the petition today: https://t.co/dfPhdUCXO6
— Montana AFL-CIO (@MTaflcio) February 21, 2024
Nevada State AFL-CIO:
Senator Rosen’s support & pro-labor advocacy will ensure that we can continue to work together to empower workers, and build stronger communities. We thank her for joining us for a round table discussion, and many thanks to IBEW 401 for sharing their hall! pic.twitter.com/H6cSbvvFFU
— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) February 22, 2024
New Hampshire AFL-CIO:
This is what #Solidarity looks like. “Right-to-Work” has no place in the Granite State.#NHPolitics pic.twitter.com/Rx0khFyAPs
— New Hampshire AFL-CIO (@NHAFLCIO) February 22, 2024
New York State AFL-CIO:
Staffing shortages in the public sector are at crisis levels because Tier 6 has become an impediment to recruitment and retention. Ask your legislators to fix the Tier 6 public pension system in the 2024-25 State Budget: https://t.co/xvZVUIsAtG
— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) February 21, 2024
North Carolina State AFL-CIO:
Early voting for NC's March 5th primary has begun! Union voters can find a list of candidates running with the union label at https://t.co/vpylYBaFWZ. Together we can make sure the best, most pro-labor candidates make it to the general election! #1u #ncpol @CWAUnion pic.twitter.com/I91GtdpSY6
— NC State AFL-CIO // #CountMeIn (@NCStateAFLCIO) February 15, 2024
North Dakota AFL-CIO:
Urgent Action Needed: Tell the Burgum Administration to Prioritize ND’s Hungry Kids! https://t.co/OmgrURAFyA
— North Dakota AFL-CIO (@NDAFLCIO) February 22, 2024
Ohio AFL-CIO:
#Solidarity forever! https://t.co/3jJnlO5zb3
— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) February 14, 2024
Oregon AFL-CIO:
Nurses are still on strike and are picketing until 7:00pm on Friday, February 23 in Springfield.
Join them and send a clear message to management that #OregonLabor holds the line and stands in unwavering solidarity with @OregonNurses. 🪧✊🏽📢https://t.co/m5a3nOlTlf pic.twitter.com/thlm2OBjom
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) February 21, 2024
Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:
According to a 2014 report by the Economic Policy Institute, workers lose over $50bn a year to wage theft from employers. #PowerToThePeople #YearOfTheWorkerhttps://t.co/jFkyD63KuM
— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) February 22, 2024
Rhode Island AFL-CIO:
“The IRA provisions are going to make sure that that transition doesn't exploit this new group of workers just because of who they are and what they look like,” Crowley said.https://t.co/9wAyEWcmoh
— Rhode Island AFL-CIO (@riaflcio) February 15, 2024
Texas AFL-CIO:
Welcome to Texas labor, @satxnewsguild ✊
Solidarity & good luck as you seek recognition! https://t.co/Atefy4ohj1
— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) February 21, 2024
Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:
🚨RALLY FOR STRIKING WORKERS‼️
Join labor and community for a rally on the Capitol steps in Olympia as we call on our legislators to stand with working people and pass UI for striking workers, HB 1893.
Weds, Feb 28 @ 12pm. RSVP ⬇️ https://t.co/gbEwBgptee #waleg pic.twitter.com/JlyaCt5Ai4
— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) February 20, 2024
West Virginia AFL-CIO:
The future of Charleston's mail processing plant remains uncertain!! APWU Local 133 held an informational picket Tuesday at the Charleston Main Post Office in advance of tonight’s public meeting. Join the fight tonight to keep YOUR mail in West Virginia! pic.twitter.com/b4xYqxid9M
— West Virginia AFLCIO (@WestVirginiaAFL) February 14, 2024
Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
Editorial | Michigan revoked its anti-union laws; Wisconsin should too https://t.co/PuVpELcPmg via @CapTimes
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) February 22, 2024
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 02/22/2024 - 12:00Black History Month Profiles: Erika White
This year, for Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active 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 Erika White of the Communications Workers of America (CWA).
Erika White proudly serves as the president of CWA Local 4319. She represents the hardworking and dedicated union members at the University of Toledo, AT&T, the Toledo Lucas County Public Library, Allen County Children Services, Allen County Child Support and Johnson Controls. White serves on the CWA National Executive Board as the Diversity Board at-large member for the central region and vice president of the Greater Northwest Ohio AFL-CIO. She was elected as a delegate to the 2024 Democratic National Convention.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 02/22/2024 - 10:22Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Atlantic Theater Workers Vote to Join IATSE
Working people across the United States have stepped 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 178 crew members of the Atlantic Theater Company voted to join the Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE), becoming the first group to form a union with IATSE at a major nonprofit theater off-Broadway. The workers include crew members in carpentry, electrics, scenic, props, audio, video, hair and makeup, and wardrobe.
“This is a monumental step forward towards improving pay, conditions, and stability for freelance theatre workers in New York City and across the country,” said Stage Carpenter Michael Stevens. “I’m immensely grateful to my fellow workers for supporting the effort to unionize the Atlantic, as well as to the organizing committee for our shared, tireless commitment to this campaign. We look forward to bargaining for the benefits—such as healthcare—that we all deserve!”
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 02/22/2024 - 10:06Labor Unions Build the Middle Class: The Working People Weekly List
Every week, we bring you a roundup of the top news and commentary about issues and events important to working families. Here’s the latest edition of the Working People Weekly List.
Labor Leaders Condemn GOP Fiscal Commission as Anti-Worker 'Power Grab': “A coalition of U.S. labor leaders spoke out forcefully on Thursday against the Republican-led push for a ‘fiscal commission,’ denouncing the proposal as an attack on Social Security, Medicare, and other programs that tens of millions of current and retired workers depend on to meet basic needs. Liz Shuler, president of the AFL-CIO, said in a statement that a fiscal commission is a ‘terrible idea that would push older Americans into poverty, take away people's healthcare, and end up costing the government more.’”
Kamala Harris Touts Strength of Labor Unions to Build the Middle Class: “Unions boost pay 10% to 15% for members and improve fringe benefits, bolstering the middle class and economy, a U.S. Department of the Treasury report released Monday said. ‘Union workers make our middle class and our entire economy more strong,’ Vice President Kamala Harris said Monday on a call outlining the administration's efforts to support unions. ‘During this summer of worker strikes and organizing, we're seeing unprecedented public support for unions as a critical pathway to grow the middle class and provide opportunities for working people to thrive,’ Liz Shuler, president of the AFL-CIO, told CNBC.”
USW International President David McCall Issues Statement After Cleveland Cliff Facility Goes Idle: “The United Steelworkers (USW) has issued a statement from International President David McCall after Cleveland Cliffs announced an indefinite idling of operations at its Weirton tin plate facility: ‘Weirton Steelworkers can compete with anyone on a level playing field, but the ITC’s recent negative determination continues to leave our markets vulnerable to foreign dumping. The current market for tin mill products has already been decimated by over 50% penetration of illegally dumped foreign tinplate. Now, with the idling of tinplate production in Weirton, unfair trade is one step closer to choking out our domestic industry entirely. The USW will work with Cleveland-Cliffs to provide as many options to our members as possible, as well as continue our fight against the unfair trade practices that continue to cost good, community-sustaining jobs and threaten our economy.’”
Number of Striking U.S. Workers More Than Doubled Last Year, Study Shows: “The number of striking workers in the U.S. more than doubled last year due to massive work stoppages carried out by autoworkers, nurses and Hollywood writers and actors, according to a study released by Cornell University on Thursday. The total number of striking workers climbed 141% in 2023, amounting to nearly 540,000 workers who walked off the job, the report found.”
UFCW Local Leads Fight to Win Washington's Strongest Tenant Protections: “Grocery and retail workers helped win the strongest tenant protections in Washington state last November for the 100,000 renters in the city of Tacoma. First we had to beat the mayor’s and city council’s attempt to bring a competing watered-down ballot measure. And then we had to overcome a vicious and deceptive landlord opposition that smashed all previous political spending records in Tacoma. ‘We’ve created incredible goodwill in the community just as we gear up for a tough contract fight,’ said Michael Whalen, who helped initiate the campaign as a dairy clerk and shop steward at Fred Meyer.”
Here’s Why Thousands of Flight Attendants Are Threatening to Strike: “With a participation rate of roughly 93%, Alaska flight attendants represented by the Association of Flight Attendants (AFA) voted 99.48% in favor of authorizing a strike, amid the flight attendants’ negotiations with Alaska Airlines for a new contract.”
No Matter What Happens Next, Unionizing at ZeniMax Worked: “Not very long ago, I was one of the thousands of video game workers feeling gnawed on by this competitive, volatile industry. It felt like things were quickly becoming unsustainable. But something happened. During this round of layoffs, I felt something in addition to the familiar sadness and dread: I felt empowered. When I first joined ZeniMax in 2022 as a part-time QA contractor, it was immediately apparent that there were cultural and systemic issues in the department and in the industry. The pay was scandalously low, and there were no clear pathways to professional development or promotion.”
Coalition of Black Trade Unionists President: Choice Is Democracy or Dictatorship: “The choice in the 2024 general election is between democracy and dictatorship, not just between Democratic President Joe Biden and presumed Republican nominee Donald Trump, the White House denizen whom Biden beat four years ago. So says Terry Melvin, president of the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists and the most outspoken speaker to address the Government Employees (AFGE) Legislative Conference in D.C. on Feb. 12. The key issue for attendees at the legislative conference was a 7.4% pay raise for federal workers in fiscal 2025, which begins October 1. All the speakers, led by union President Everett Kelley, pushed that cause. Delegates planned a Feb. 13 rally plus lobbying on Capitol Hill about that. The outlook for it is murky. ‘It’s getting really impossible to determine what this Congress would do,’ Kelley admitted. ‘Now we’re listening to these little echoes’ of Trump and Trumpite goals. Biden seeks a 5.2% hike.”
New Orleans Nurses Fight for a New Union as Hospitals Merge and Revenues Soar: “Last fall, Tujague and her colleagues had finally had enough of what they described as persistent undersupplying and short-staffing. In October, nurses at University Medical Center filed for a union election. Two months later, on Dec. 9, over 80% voted to join the National Nurses Organizing Committee/National Nurses United (NNOC/NNU), the country’s largest nurses’ union. The election was Louisiana’s largest National Labor Relations Board election in nearly 30 years. With the vote, University Medical Center became Louisiana’s first unionized private-sector hospital. About 4% of Louisiana’s workers are unionized, compared to about 10% nationwide.”
Disneyland's Character Performers Look to Form Union Under Actors' Equity Association: “Workers who bring Disneyland’s beloved characters to life—including Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck and Cinderella—are looking to unionize. Labor organizers announced the campaign Tuesday, saying performers want better safety conditions and scheduling policies to help keep the magic alive for visitors. While most of the more than 35,000 workers at the Disneyland Resort already have labor unions, about 1,700 performers and character actors do not.”
DreamWorks Animation, Flying Bark Productions Workers Take Steps Toward Unionizing: “The Animation Guild is organizing production workers at DreamWorks Animation and at Flying Bark Productions. The guild (IATSE Local 839) sent a letter to DreamWorks Animation on Feb. 7 and filed for recognition with the National Labor Relations Board on Feb. 9 to represent 162 production workers at the studio.”
Why Workers and Employers Both Need Paid Family Leave: “Workers across the country need the same peace of mind while recovering from surgery or sickness. They need time to care for ill loved ones, bond with infants, or welcome other new family members without risking their jobs or forfeiting the income needed to keep their households afloat. And they need to be empowered to escape domestic violence, ensure family stability during a service member’s deployment, or confront other emergencies without throwing themselves at the mercy of employers.”
Striking Hotel Workers Reach Contract Agreements with 5 More Hotels in Months-Long Fight: “Five more Southern California hotels have reached tentative labor agreements covering about 650 workers, the latest settlements in a months-long strike that at times has been marked by violence. In all, Unite Here Local 11 has signed tentative agreements with 34 out of some 60 properties in Los Angeles and Orange counties initially targeted by intermittent walkouts beginning in July. The union has said it is the largest hotel strike in modern U.S. history, involving some 15,000 cooks, housekeepers, dishwashers, servers, porters and front desk agents.”
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 02/21/2024 - 15:16Black History Month Profiles: Quenell Jones
This year, for Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active 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 Quenell Jones of the Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE).
In 2019, Quenell Jones was selected as a mentee for the American Society of Cinematographers, a program designed for working professionals with an interest in pursuing a career as a cinematographer. He is the eastern region diversity committee chair and a member of the International Cinematographers Guild (ICG) National Inclusion Committee. "With a grandmother a part of the teachers union, I had a visual representation of what it meant to be in a union. Being in IATSE, I am able to transform my life in a positive way." He is a New York-based camera operator and has been a proud ICG member for 18 years.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 02/21/2024 - 10:35Service & Solidarity Spotlight: UMWA Welcomes Logan County Commission Office Staff as Newest Members
Working people across the United States have stepped 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 Mine Workers (UMWA) announced that the workers at the Logan County Commission voted to be represented by the UMWA.
“I want to welcome the newest members of the UMWA and congratulate them for their decision to join our union,” said International President Cecil Roberts. “Their decision places them on a path toward enhanced job security and the fair representation they deserve on the job.”
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 02/21/2024 - 10:23Black History Month Profiles: Jerry T. Jordan
This year, for Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active 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 Jerry T. Jordan of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT).
Jerry T. Jordan is president of the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers (PFT), AFT Local 3. Jordan received his degree in education and Spanish from Temple University and began teaching high school Spanish and English as a Second Language in the Philadelphia school district. In 1987, he joined PFT as a district staff representative, representing teachers and support staff in 50 schools and school district offices. He was elected legislative representative for PFT’s executive board and, in 1989, was appointed special assistant to the PFT president and was elected general vice president by the members. He was first elected to a four-year term as PFT president in February 2008. He is a vice president of the Philadelphia Central Labor Council and the Pennsylvania AFL-CIO.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 02/20/2024 - 10:31Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Houston Landing Workers Form Union After Editor, Star Reporter Fired
Working people across the United States have stepped 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.
An overwhelming majority of workers at the nonprofit publication Houston Landing voted to join The NewsGuild-CWA. The workers were proud to have met and even exceeded company targets for impact, page views and engagement time, among others, just eight months after launch. Management’s shock decision to terminate the Landing’s founding editor-in-chief and sole investigative reporter exposed the lack of protections Landing workers have. Some 75% of eligible workers signed union authorization cards, signaling their desire to form the Houston Landing News Guild.
“We will fight to maintain a workplace culture that reflects our core values of transparency, inclusivity and accountability. We will champion editorial representation at the highest levels of company leadership and decision-making,” the Houston Landing News Guild's mission statement said. “Finally, we will uphold the mission of the Landing: to advance democracy through journalism and improve the lives of all Houstonians one story at a time.”
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 02/20/2024 - 10:08Black History Month Profiles: Timothy A. Williams
This year, for Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active 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 Timothy A. Williams of the Heat and Frost Insulators.
Timothy Williams started his career in the Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company in 1978. He was also a company owner in Virgina. He became a member of HFIU Local 30 when he relocated to the Syracuse, N.Y., area. He was a proud and dedicated member of the local until he retired in May 2019. In December 2019, Williams' services were called upon once again. He was asked to serve the local as an organizer, a position that he still works in to this day. He is currently taking classes to become an MC3 certified instructor, so that he can better help serve the local and its apprentices.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 02/19/2024 - 10:26Black History Month Profiles: Faye Brooks
This year, for Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active 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 Faye Brooks of the Professional Aviation Safety Specialists (PASS).
A 24-year veteran of the Federal Aviation Administration, Faye Brooks specializes in aircraft cabin safety, ensuring that regulations are followed to keep passengers safe onboard. She has been a PASS member for just as long, which has allowed her to invest in her future. Now a union contract representative, she has more of a voice and protects her fellow bargaining unit employees.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 02/16/2024 - 09:55Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Howard County (Maryland) Public Library Employees Vote to Form Union
Working people across the United States have stepped 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 for the Howard County Library System in Maryland voted overwhelmingly to join AFSCME. The vote was 151 to 19 in favor of the union. More than 200 workers will be represented by the new unit. The workers are seeking a voice in the decision-making process, fair wages, better job protection, reasonable schedules, adequate staffing, paths to promotion and a safe work environment.
“To me, one of the biggest impacts I’m hoping the union will have is improving communication,” said Eliana Holgate, a children’s instructor and research specialist. “It feels like there’s a disconnect between our leadership and the staff facing the community in the branches. We want our voices to be heard in the decision-making process and better understand decisions made that aren’t explained to staff. We want all staff to be safe and supported.”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 02/16/2024 - 09:49Black History Month Profiles: Sheria Smith
This year, for Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active 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 Sheria Smith of AFGE.
Sheria Smith is the president and chief negotiator of AFGE Local 252, which represents approximately 3,000 employees at the Department of Education. She serves on several AFGE committees, including the District 10 Advisory Committee, the Unity Committee and AFGE B.L.A.C.K. Smith is a recipient of AFGE's Woman of Labor award and a 2019 graduate of the Texas AFL-CIO Ruth Ellinger Labor Leaders class.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 02/15/2024 - 10:38Service & Solidarity Spotlight: University of the Arts Faculty in Pennsylvania Ratify First Contract in School’s History
Working people across the United States have stepped 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.
Faculty at the University of the Arts (UArts) ratified a new contract with a near-unanimous vote. It’s the first contract for faculty in the school’s nearly 150-year history and runs through June 2026. The faculty are represented by United Academics of Philadelphia (UAP), American Federation of Teachers (AFT) Local 9608. The contract includes, on average, 11% wage increases for full-time faculty in the first year and part-time faculty raises of 13%.
“This contract will realize double-digit raises for most faculty at UArts,” said Daniel Pieczkolon, president of the union. “Eighty-five percent of UArts faculty are part-time and have worked at rates well below nearby schools, without benefits or long-term contracts. This is a step in the right direction after three years of stalling from UArts administrators.”
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 02/15/2024 - 10:19Fair Pay Is Worth Fighting For: What Working People Are Doing This Week
Welcome to our regular feature, a look at what the various AFL-CIO unions and other working family organizations are doing across the country and beyond. The labor movement is big and active—here's a look at the broad range of activities we're engaged in this week.
Actors' Equity:
Equity members create the Broadway hits of the future in development sessions, and they deserve a fair contract. Share your support of these actors and stage managers: https://t.co/PF9eKYCzs0 pic.twitter.com/CYX2xfLNzf
— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) February 13, 2024
AFGE:
Fair pay is worth fighting for!
And federal workers know how to fight💪#AFGERising pic.twitter.com/rv3S1ggNY1
— AFGE (@AFGENational) February 13, 2024
AFSCME:
ASEA member Crystal Basnaw has dedicated 14 years to bringing comfort to elders at The Fairbanks Pioneer Home. Discover how she earned our Never Quit Service Award. https://t.co/O4hJs3MOcJ
— AFSCME (@AFSCME) February 12, 2024
Alliance for Retired Americans:
Social Security cuts are deeply unpopular, because voters know that's not what we need.
It's time to make the wealthy pay their fair share so we can expand benefits: https://t.co/8R4amUR8uO https://t.co/URWfOsixta
— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) February 13, 2024
Amalgamated Transit Union:
ATU-endorsed Tom Suozzi wins! #ATURidinWithSuozzi pic.twitter.com/EC5iCDWbX0
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) February 14, 2024
American Federation of Musicians:
Bravo! This might have been the best opener for the #SuperBowl. An orchestra of 60 musicians from Local 369 (Las Vegas). The session was recorded under an AFM union contract. #unionmade #1u@MusiciansVegas AFM Local 369 https://t.co/cXrreTnOov
— AFM (@The_AFM) February 12, 2024
American Federation of Teachers:
Roses are red
Fights for #SafeStaffing are not in vain
Health professionals are winning
With the #CodeRed campaign!#HealthPolicyValentines @AFTHealthcare #CodeRed https://t.co/pcIKrvKXRV
— AFT (@AFTunion) February 14, 2024
American Postal Workers Union:
The fifth COLA increase under the 2021-2024 Collective Bargaining Agreement has been announced. https://t.co/fI9pdk1olS
— The American Postal Workers Union - APWU (@APWUnational) February 13, 2024
Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:
Corporate greed won’t fly! Flight Attendants are on the picket lines today demanding fair contracts now! #FlightAttendantsFightBack #ContractNow pic.twitter.com/aapAtZVVTh
— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) February 13, 2024
Boilermakers:
HUGE! 👋 to BUSTING the union-busting law. Congratulations Michigan! Organizing for change works ✊ pic.twitter.com/FCCzhFg5hV
— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) February 14, 2024
Bricklayers:
Happy Valentine’s Day, brothers and sisters! #unionstrong #1u #ValentinesDay #valentinesday2024
graphic via @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/jPATrELl8q
— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) February 14, 2024
Communications Workers of America:
Shout out to all the CWAers who helped make this victory happen! https://t.co/boN7nZBo3g
— CWA (@CWAUnion) February 14, 2024
Department for Professional Employees:
Dreamworks animation professionals are joining together in union with @animationguild! https://t.co/WxLNVgkWIg
— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) February 14, 2024
Electrical Workers:
Last week, after years of open negotiations with NECA, the IBEW came to an agreement to raise the NEBF benefit. That means more financial security for you and your family. Learn more: https://t.co/iEzS8de2pd pic.twitter.com/swlzLxq8DO
— IBEW (@IBEW) February 13, 2024
Heat and Frost Insulators:
This short video will appeal to someone looking to start a career where they have a great career and a great retirement as an HFIAW member. Post this video on social media to recruit more people to your apprenticeship program https://t.co/ZdtdOW8muT pic.twitter.com/76BW2smDp6
— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) February 14, 2024
Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:
Across the country, flight attendants came together to demand fair treatment and better working conditions. LCLAA National Team and Chapters supported a nuestros hermanos y hermanas tripulantes de cabinas en todo el país! @lclaalosangeles @TWU556 pic.twitter.com/miYSL96ZLz
— LCLAA (@LCLAA) February 13, 2024
Labor Heritage Foundation:
@BillFletcherJr reads from his mystery novel The Man Who Changed Colors @busboysandpoets Takoma for the LHF Bread & Roses series pic.twitter.com/e3tYVKbqq8
— Labor Heritage (@LaborHeritage1) February 14, 2024
Laborers:
#BlackHistoryMonth continues and so does our celebration of Black Americans’ contributions to #unionpower and #LIUNA!
Today, meet Kenneth Woods, from Local 1421 in Boston, MA. pic.twitter.com/TpToqAK5oI
— LIUNA (@LIUNA) February 14, 2024
Machinists:
We won't stop calling out @apple for its disgusting union busting 😤.
If you support workers like @acoreunion and their right to organize, this is the petition you need to sign ⬇️ https://t.co/bMrEEvVg1q
— Machinists Union (@MachinistsUnion) February 14, 2024
Metal Trades Department:
A $95 billion measure being weighed by the U.S. Senate includes $3.3 billion for the nation’s public shipyards, funding that would support dry dock projects in Kittery and at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard. https://t.co/dqF3IY82uS
— Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) February 11, 2024
National Association of Letter Carriers:
Delivering mail on a cold day can bring hazards that may sneak up on you. One of those hazards is hypothermia, which can happen when your body temperature reaches dangerously low levels. Read this thread to make sure you know the risks and signs of this cold-weather threat. ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/BJl5oT8gIq
— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) February 13, 2024
National Day Laborer Organizing Network:
❤️ Excluded workers care for us. Now it’s our turn to care for them.
This Valentine’s Day, show your appreciation for excluded workers by standing up for meaningful access to the safety net.
We deserve a New York where workers are #ExcludedNoMore. ❤️
Via @FEWCoalition pic.twitter.com/yXLf7hibye
— NDLON (@NDLON) February 14, 2024
National Domestic Workers Alliance:
We’re on the ground with @BlackWorkers215 in Philly right now advocating for the budget we need to ensure all workers’ rights are protected and enforced! pic.twitter.com/HHS7NLOC4s
— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) February 14, 2024
National Federation of Federal Employees:
NFFE is proud to announce that National Business Representative Gerald “Jerry” McCarty has joined the Machinists Union as a Special Representative in the IAM Organizing Department. https://t.co/gH3MrOBuPz
— NFFE (@NFFE_Union) February 9, 2024
National Nurses United:
Our fight to win nurse-to-patient ratios is a global fight! It's not just a problem in the U.S. — nurses all across the world suffer from unsafe patient assignments.
We were proud to stand in solidarity with @infirmiersnpi last week to discuss the global need for #SafeStaffing. pic.twitter.com/geHPs0y3z2
— NationalNursesUnited (@NationalNurses) February 12, 2024
NFL Players Association:
Explore the workforce outside the NFL.
Active players, now's your chance to explore industries such as TV broadcasting, business, technology, nonprofits, and more with the NFLPA Career Experiences program.
Sign up here to reserve your seat: https://t.co/iZOAGI8O40 pic.twitter.com/xfF2ogZeWM
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) February 14, 2024
North America's Building Trades Unions:
The Biden Administration has invested nearly $15 BILLION in public infrastructure and clean energy projects throughout Pennsylvania.
These are historic investments that will rebuild communities, stimulate the economy, and launch careers ✊
🔗: https://t.co/nlid4wzGcK pic.twitter.com/AjT3os4Dy1
— The Building Trades (@NABTU) February 13, 2024
Office and Professional Employees:
A longtime steward with a 40+ year career at NW Natural in Newport, Oregon, Kayleen Williams has spent her working life advocating and supporting others. We are proud to highlight her this #BlackHistoryMonth & celebrate her decades of service to the labor movement with Local 11. pic.twitter.com/5gJ4y5cec3
— OPEIU | #UnionStrong (@OPEIU) February 13, 2024
Painters and Allied Trades:
Our union fights every day to end the illegal practice of wage theft by employers and make sure construction workers are paid every dollar they earned.
Thank you to @msainat1 for highlighting our union’s work to ensure tradesworkers get what they’re owed. https://t.co/G4MUkIjbyZ
— IUPAT (@GoIUPAT) February 14, 2024
Plasterers and Cement Masons:
Brothers & Sisters, as we enter another political season it is imperative that you prepare to vote for the candidate that best represents you & yours. Every voice & vote matters, especially #OPCMIA members. Make sure your voice is heard & register to vote before election day! pic.twitter.com/8ifMnvDQ82
— OPCMIA International (@opcmiaintl) February 14, 2024
Professional Aviation Safety Specialists:
Thanks @FAA_Mike for meeting with PASS Region V Vice President Tamara Rose at NW Mountain Regional Office today in Seattle. Keeping lines of communications open while we are negotiating 2 contracts with FAA critical. #aviationsafety #publicservice #unionsolidarity pic.twitter.com/v6HA3dJSoe
— PASS (@PASSNational) February 12, 2024
Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:
"Ensuring the workers who help us provide for our families can go to work each day and return home exactly as they left is a basic requirement that cannot be overlooked." - RWDSU President @sappelbaum https://t.co/f61L13avWl
— RWDSU (@RWDSU) February 14, 2024
Roofers and Waterproofers:
Construction in Cleveland is booming, and more women are gaining entry into lucrative building trades careers thanks to Cleveland's building trades unions. Share and help inspire someone you know start a career in the trades! #WomenRoof #WomenintheTrades https://t.co/siIgVFkKYq
— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) February 14, 2024
SAG-AFTRA:
🎙️ #ICYMI: #SagAftraMember Ron Perlman, SAG-AFTRA NED @DuncanCI and other industry leaders discussed the future of the entertainment industry during the @knxnews Town Hall, “Streaming Wars: The End of Content's Golden Age?”
Watch here: https://t.co/dACPqNxqm1 pic.twitter.com/oBex6ZW0lQ
— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) February 14, 2024
Solidarity Center:
Listen to @NazmaAkter73, one of the fantastic #union leaders who gathered for a reunion of our Global Labor Leadership Initiative (GLLI), speak about how she was “born a union member” and gained her passion for protecting #workerrights, especially #womenworkers, at an early age. pic.twitter.com/frAdmXL4lX
— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) February 13, 2024
The NewsGuild-CWA:
"Withholding our labor is essential to making sure the boss knows we have a seat at the table," says @newsguild president @gaufre
In the last two weeks, journalists at 24+ newsrooms have walked out over layoffs, budget cuts & expired contracts
Listen ⬇️https://t.co/t7vPVLVWhY
— NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) February 14, 2024
Theatrical Stage Employees:
BREAKING: Crewmembers covering carpentry, electric, props, audio, wardrobe, and hair/makeup for the off-Broadway musical “Titanique” are set to join IATSE! 1/2 https://t.co/q5uSflTck3
— IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) February 14, 2024
Transport Workers Union:
Lyn Montgomery, President of @TWU556 representing Southwest Airlines flight attendants, said their work is getting harder. “Flying these days is not fun. It’s chaotic. It’s crowded. We’re late, (flights are) delayed. We are tired and exhausted.” https://t.co/sPuSxc5EMQ
— TWU (@transportworker) February 14, 2024
Transportation Trades Department:
Flight attendants brought the heat at DCA! ✊#FlightAttendantsFightBack@TTDAFLCIO President Greg Regan joined our union siblings out on the picket line this morning to demand a fair #ContractNow! #PayUsOrCHAOS pic.twitter.com/xJ28LbOgoG
— TTD | America's Transportation Unions (@TTDAFLCIO) February 13, 2024
UAW:
Bosses always use the same tired playbook to try and stop the working class from organizing: Fear, Uncertainty, and Division.
But scare tactics aren’t going to work this time. Workers are standing up and won’t be denied their union.#StandUpUAW pic.twitter.com/fTQ6T94mzD
— UAW (@UAW) February 12, 2024
Union Label and Service Trades Department:
Bloomberg Law reports that unions have increased their headcount for 3 successive years. As well, it reports that more than half a million workers engaged in union-initiated strikes in 2023. The labor movement is growing! https://t.co/2f6OzYNwHB
— Union Label Dept. (@ULSTD_AFLCIO) February 14, 2024
UNITE HERE:
"I AM Story," a podcast by @AFSCME President Lee Saunders about the historic Memphis Sanitation Strike, is up for an NAACP Image Award—and you can help it win!
Cast your vote today:
🔗 https://t.co/xu1kWuPV3s
— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) February 12, 2024
United Food and Commercial Workers:
From couch to field, thank UFCW members for #SBLVIII! @ufcw1546 workers are responsible for crafting the leather for every official NFL football & grocery workers nationwide are ready to assist in prepping your #SuperBowlSunday spread! pic.twitter.com/qCdkP3KTKH
— UFCW (@UFCW) February 11, 2024
United Steelworkers:
ICYMI: Make sure to check out our latest Solidarity Works podcast episode that features two USW members who are preserving the historic Maxo Vanka murals in Pittsburgh!💪 ❤️ Listen at https://t.co/vpow8quTLT or wherever you access your favorite podcasts. #USW #Everybodysunion #1u pic.twitter.com/1l9gSGy5rl
— United Steelworkers #EverybodysUnion (@steelworkers) February 10, 2024
United Students Against Sweatshops:
USAS has developed organizers and ran successful campaigns at over 150 campuses for nearly 30 years. In order to continue this work, join the sustainers program using this link as we continue building and fighting for working class power! https://t.co/w7mPOJB98o pic.twitter.com/7azHNbQ175
— USAS (@USAS) February 12, 2024
Utility Workers:
The choice is clear: invest in disaster-resilient water infrastructure now or pay the price later.https://t.co/cyQ5TLLrdd pic.twitter.com/DLKf9OjW7l
— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) February 14, 2024
Writers Guild of America East:
Join us for a virtual informational session explaining the ins and outs of writing services being included in the New York State Film Tax Credit Program.
Tuesday, February 27
2-3pm ET
via Zoom
RSVP: https://t.co/NRIwip68od pic.twitter.com/la9NzEgOiR
— Writers Guild of America East (@WGAEast) February 13, 2024
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 02/14/2024 - 10:46
