Support Trades Apprenticeships: In the States Roundup
It's time once again to take a look at the ways working people are making progress in the states. Click on any of the links to follow the state federations on Twitter.
Alaska AFL-CIO:
We need YOU to show up and support our new brothers and sisters @agwa_uaw!
This Friday, they will march to UA President Pitney's office with a super majority of authorization cards. We need the Fairbanks labor movement to back them up! #1u #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/F84lpTSQX2
Arizona AFL-CIO:
Was an honor to be apart of the Women in Organized Labor event and it’s amazing to see the progress that women have made in the labor movement. It was so inspiring to hear from @yolitorosentado @MarisolGarciaAZ @ArtieBlancoSays pic.twitter.com/FeRwjZQaGS
— Arizona AFL-CIO (@ArizonaAFLCIO) March 24, 2023California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:
Starbucks & Amazon workers are speaking up about why CA needs #SB627 by Senator Lola Smallwood-Cuevas! When corporate chains close stores, the loss of jobs can be devastating. #SB627 protects displaced workers in these situations, ensuring they have transfer rights other stores. pic.twitter.com/d9ojGzTvFu
— California Labor Federation (@CaliforniaLabor) March 24, 2023Colorado AFL-CIO:
— Colorado AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOCO) March 18, 2023Connecticut AFL-CIO:
On April 28, the unions of the AFL-CIO will observe #WorkersMemorialDay to remember those who have suffered and died on the job, and to renew the fight for safe jobs. Learn more --> https://t.co/JbWy4O1770 pic.twitter.com/NdFyWLH1JS
— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) March 28, 2023Florida AFL-CIO:
Bullies in Tallahassee keep pushing to strip the rights of nurses, 911 operators, teachers, bus drivers, sanitation workers and everyone in the public sector who make our lives better. Don't let them! Click here to call your legislators now. https://t.co/2ugKvour1u
— Florida AFL-CIO (@FLAFLCIO) March 24, 2023Georgia State AFL-CIO:
Can't wait to kick back and relax knowing that my time off is supporting workers who are getting fair wages and benefits. Plus, I'll have an excuse to wear my favorite "Union Made, Union Proud t-shirt. 🙌✊ #UnionVacation #FairWages #StayUnion 😎🏖️ pic.twitter.com/dBUxbq3Fke
— Georgia AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOGeorgia) March 24, 2023Illinois AFL-CIO:
IL AFL-CIO president Tim Drea and equity director Chynna Hampton discuss the importance of training ex-offenders for green jobs if we want to achieve true economic equity.
Read the Sun Times op-ed here:https://t.co/0gC6CT4IY2
Indiana State AFL-CIO:
Make sure to sign @AFTIndiana's petition to keep public dollars in public schools! No more voucher expansions! https://t.co/X0Ws6ciIth
— Indiana AFL-CIO (@INAFLCIO) March 20, 2023Iowa Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO:
Contact Your Legislators to Support Trades Apprenticeship Amendment https://t.co/tYVktK0X3I
— Iowa AFL-CIO (@IowaAFLCIO) March 28, 2023 .Maine AFL-CIO:
📢Chipotle to Pay $240k to Augusta Employees for Illegal Union Busting!
It will offer preferential rehire to Augusta employees at other Maine locations
It will post a notice in 40 stores in ME, NH & MA that it will NOT illegally retaliate against workers for forming unions pic.twitter.com/j4TxhOUtWf
Maryland State and D.C. AFL-CIO:
Thank you to everyone that came out to #unionnight in Annapolis! pic.twitter.com/jeItnOmGBm
— Maryland State and DC AFL-CIO (@MDDCStateFed) March 28, 2023Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
President Tolman speaking about labor’s priorities at the @GsmLabor Legislative Breakfast: “When working people understand each other’s issues and stand together, nobody can beat us!” #mapoli #1u #solidarity pic.twitter.com/viXZsjXaUz
— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) March 25, 2023Michigan State AFL-CIO:
https://t.co/h6ECF0XXvZ pic.twitter.com/UxVIsfle9t
— Michigan AFL-CIO ✊ (@MIAFLCIO) March 24, 2023Minnesota AFL-CIO:
What do #union members need to know about the Paid Family & Medical Leave bill making its way through the Legislature? We'll be covering the facts all week on our social media.
Today, we cover the broad union support this bill has. pic.twitter.com/0oWTmY2tDG
Missouri AFL-CIO:
"Until we change that dynamic, which is foundational on good-paying jobs that provide a career that a worker can thrive in … we’re always going to be running into the same problem." https://t.co/Kd6NPjCJBl
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) March 28, 2023Montana State AFL-CIO:
Montana's apprenticeship programs ensure our workers have a path to good-paying union jobs and become part of the highest-skilled, safest, and most productive workforce available.
Interested? Learn more here: https://t.co/wULiFDK9VN
Nevada State AFL-CIO:
Strong women in Nevada holding down the fort!
Fun fact: The Nevada State AFL-CIO is currently led by two incredible women:
Executive Secretary-Treasurer Susie Martinez & President Liz Sorenson#WomensHistoryMonth pic.twitter.com/x3NnxXjGCj
New Jersey State AFL-CIO:
The decision to strike isn't easy, but sometimes you have to fight for your rights.
That is why it is critical to pass S-3215, which improves unemployment benefits for striking workers.
Click the link and ask your Senator to support S-3215 now!https://t.co/WVFSnYca4C
New York State AFL-CIO:
Make sure your voice is heard! Tell your state legislators that indexing the minimum wage will have a historic, permanent impact for all workers, particularly low wage workers. https://t.co/J0v7n8auRk
— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) March 29, 2023North Carolina State AFL-CIO:
Culture wars and attacks on public schools aren’t about protecting kids. Banning books and sowing distrust are the tools of demagogues, used to distract us while they trample our freedoms and pick our pockets. #WhatKidsNeed https://t.co/OhkguSbsnL @AFTunion #1u pic.twitter.com/nhJxnOYUQS
— NC State AFL-CIO // #CountMeIn (@NCStateAFLCIO) March 28, 2023North Dakota AFL-CIO:
Senator Jeff Magrum lining up for free food with his colleague Jeff Hoverson at the Capitol.
Both Magrum and Hoverson voted against HB 1491, a bill that would have provided school meals free of charge for more students in ND. #NDPOL #NDLEG https://t.co/PWQ2X5tqAp pic.twitter.com/XDSIPeRouf
Ohio AFL-CIO:
Every year, @OHDems introduce a bill to raise the minimum wage. Every @ohiogop votes against it. Polls show Ohioans are in favor or raising the wage. When politicians won't act because of special-interest donations, the people must. https://t.co/ErLqvncgnU
— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) March 29, 2023Oregon AFL-CIO:
Today is a great day to take action and help #PassThePROAct. It’s time to rewrite our country’s sorely outdated labor laws. https://t.co/jJz9ToKBnT
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) March 24, 2023Rhode Island AFL-CIO:
Thank you Armand Sabitoni for your years of leadership and dedication to labor and congratulations to Michael Sabitoni and Dan Bianco for these well deserved appointments #UnionStrong https://t.co/aMbeY6Ehlt
— Rhode Island AFL-CIO (@riaflcio) March 23, 2023Tennessee AFL-CIO Labor Council:
We are terribly saddened by this morning's horrific, senseless tragedy in Nashville.
This should be a wake-up call to Tennessee lawmakers. https://t.co/cdW27wA7ib
Texas AFL-CIO:
Improved railroad working conditions benefit us all. HB 2717 is long overdue. 🧵👇#txlege pic.twitter.com/TX7e37oHo7
— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) March 28, 2023Virginia AFL-CIO:
We couldn’t be happier for @FCFTcares & @FEA_Fairfax for winning #ASeatAtTheTable 🎉 https://t.co/xdwSxxph4x
— Virginia AFL-CIO (@Virginia_AFLCIO) March 10, 2023Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:
Solidarity with @TAMWorkers fighting for union recognition! Make sure the @TacomaArtMuseum board knows how much public support these workers have — send an email today: https://t.co/aIpLNnLPL3 #UnionStrong https://t.co/kKdsDQWB0E
— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) March 28, 2023Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
Our statewide endorsements for Tuesday's election! https://t.co/zehkXRuXp3 pic.twitter.com/c6ds6MIvm5
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) March 29, 2023 Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 03/29/2023 - 12:59Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Labor Activists Participate in Leadership Intensive Training
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service + Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
On March 24, 32 leaders and staff from state federations, area labor federations and central labor councils across the country completed three and a half days of sessions with the Leadership Intensive (LI). The event was run by Maritime Institute of Technology and Graduate Studies and took place in Linthicum Heights, Maryland. The leaders discussed ways to strengthen organizations, engage in political and legislative campaigns, serve immigrant workers, and more. AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler addressed the group—stressing innovation and boldness—and presented the pandemic-delayed 2021 cohorts with their graduation certificates.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 03/29/2023 - 09:05Starbucks Founder Howard Shultz’s Congressional Testimony: Lies Detected
Today, Starbucks founder and former CEO Howard Shultz testified in front of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee.
He was subpoenaed to answer for his flagrant and illegal union-busting, and this a big deal because it’s the first time Congress has held a hearing on this topic in decades.
Howard Schultz isn’t only testifying on behalf of himself and Starbucks. He’s there to speak for every corporation and executive who think they can get away with breaking federal labor law because they have money and power.
Here are the top three lies Shultz told the HELP Committee:
Lie #1:
“We are innocent because we have done everything to respect the law of our partners’ right to form a union.”
Seven Starbucks workers were illegally fired for organizing and were only reinstated after the National Labor Relations Board forced the company to reinstate them.
Lie #2:“We would never take benefits away from anyone involved in joining a union.”
Starbucks has cut hours, refused salary increases and benefits, fired workers and even closed stores in response to organizers’ attempts to unionize. Workers who are organizing have been shut out of student loan repayment programs, COVID-19 benefits, health care benefits and credit card tips. Employees still don’t have access to benefits granted to nonunion partners.
Lie #3:Starbucks management didn’t show up to the bargaining table because organizers refused to bargain in person.
The truth? Starbucks management has refused to show up to their in-person bargaining session dozens of times.
As one organizer explained, “I was at six separate bargaining tables, in person, and every single time Howard’s people walked away within minutes. Minutes.”
There’s absolutely no excuse for putting billions of dollars of profits over employees who are simply trying to come together to exercise their legal rights.
Do you agree? Stand with Starbucks baristas. Tell their new CEO to respect workers’ rights.
You can watch the video of the hearing here.
Thank you for standing with working people.
Making History: Worker Wins
Despite the challenges of organizing during a deadly pandemic, working people across the country (and beyond) continue organizing, bargaining and mobilizing for a better life. This edition begins with:
NNU Wins Two Big Organizing Campaigns: National Nurses United (NNU) had two big organizing wins, adding nearly 700 new members to our union family. On March 8, registered nurses (RNs) at Ascension Via Christi St. Joseph in Wichita, Kansas, voted to join National Nurses Organizing Committee (NNOC), an affiliate of NNU. The union will represent more than 350 RNs. “We celebrated March 8, International Working Women’s Day, in the best way possible, by voting to become members of the largest nurses union in the country,” said Whitney Steinike, an RN in the adolescent psych unit at the St. Joseph hospital. “We are thrilled to join the movement for the high-quality care our patients need, and our communities deserve!” And on March 9, RNs at Adventist Health Lodi Memorial in California voted to join California Nurses Association/NNU (CNA/NNU). The union will represent more than 340 nurses. “Our patients are our families and friends,” said Rodney Gaines, a registered nurse who works in the emergency department. “Voting in the union gives us the tools to treat our community the way it deserves and how we want our families treated, protect our licenses when we take unsafe assignments for months on end, and have a voice when we go out of ratio. This is about protection for patients, our profession, our community.”
Temple University Graduate Students’ Association Ratifies New CBA: On March 9, members of the Temple University Graduate Students’ Association (TUGSA) overwhelmingly ratified their new collective bargaining agreement and won higher wages, health care for dependents and more paid leave. Starting on Jan. 31, TUGSA members went on strike for 42 days. The administration cut their health care without notification, rescinded tuition remission and threatened members’ visa status. But in the face of blatant union-busting, Temple University students, Philadelphia unions and political leaders united with TUGSA in its fight and showed overwhelming support. The tentative agreement was ratified 344–8 and is a historic achievement for TUGSA.
Workers at eBay-Owned TCGplayer Win Contract, Face Retaliation: On March 10, authentication center workers at eBay-owned TCGplayer won their union election and will be represented by Communications Workers of America (CWA) Local 1123. TCGplayer is one of the largest online marketplaces for verification services, card games, comics and collectible trading cards. It was acquired by eBay in November 2022. The workers are the first group of eBay workers to win union representation in the United States. On the next business day, TCGplayer management fired Iris St. Lucy, an overnight team member and a union organizer. Retaliation and union-busting are not new for TCGplayer management, which committed multiple labor law violations during the campaign. “Throughout our union campaign, TCGPlayer management has waged a ruthless intimidation campaign to stop us from joining our union, including holding mandatory meetings with anti-union propaganda and creating a culture of fear among employees," said St. Lucy. “They want to make an example of us, but this egregious action only reveals how terrified TCGPlayer and eBay are of our collective power.”
Ambulance Workers Form First New Union in Wyoming in Decades: On Feb. 28, employees of Frontier Ambulance voted 22-2 to form a new union with United Steelworkers (USW) in Lander, Wyoming, after a brief, hard-fought union campaign. The lead for the new unit came more than six months ago, and it took nearly four months for Wyoming State AFL-CIO’s Executive Director Tammy Johnson (USW) to find a union to try to organize them. When Will Wilkinson, the USW representative in Wyoming, drove to Lander, he got every employee to sign a card within a week and scheduled a vote as soon as possible. The new unit has a bargaining team set up and will begin the process of negotiating a first contract immediately. When a contract is achieved, it will be groundbreaking, being the first new union in Wyoming in decades and possibly the first health care union in the state’s history.
REI Cleveland Workers Vote Overwhelmingly to Join RWDSU-UFCW: On March 3, the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union-UFCW (RWDSU-UFCW) announced that, by an overwhelming majority vote, workers at REI Inc. in Beachwood, Ohio, the only REI location in the Greater Cleveland area, have voted to join RWDSU-UFCW, making this the third unionized REI store in the nation. Workers endured an exceptionally harsh union-busting campaign, leading to multiple unfair labor practice charges against REI. REI conducted intimidating one-on-one meetings, spread misinformation and unlawfully surveilled workers. Despite these union-busting actions, REI Cleveland workers have stood strong together and prevailed.
Workers at Three Somerville, Massachusetts, Cafes Secure First Union Contract: Workers at three cafes in Somerville, Massachusetts, voted to ratify a new contract with their shared management, becoming one of the first coffeehouse chains in the state to secure a contract. Some 60 workers, including baristas and back-of-house employees, at Diesel Café, Bloc Café, and Forge Baking Co., voted for the contract. The workers, represented by the New England Joint Board of UNITE HERE, will receive a 95-cent raise within the next 30 days and 25–35 cent raises twice a year. Baristas will make at least $15 an hour plus tips, while bakery and kitchen workers will make at least $20.25 an hour. The contract also increases paid time off, includes a clearer discipline policy, and maintains other measures like health insurance, matching 401(k) contributions, paid breaks and a $21 daily meal allowance. “It’s good to have something concrete that will hold everyone accountable and makes the standards of our workplace clear,” said Diesel Café shift runner Chris Duncan.
PGA Tour Entertainment Employees Join IBEW: PGA Tour Entertainment employees work inside the control room during a tournament and are responsible for all in-house production for the tour. While they have a handful of full-time employees, they rely on freelancers based all over the country. In December, more than 70% of the eligible workers at PGA Tour Entertainment voted to be represented by the Electrical Workers (IBEW). Contract negotiations will begin soon. IBEW designed a website to provide information to prospective members, and the card-signing process was done digitally. “The ability to use online authorization cards really cleans up the process,” said International Representative Joe Mastrogiovanni Jr., a lead organizer for IBEW’s Third District who assisted with the effort. “You don’t have to worry about what I call the hand-to-hand combat you often get. Sometimes, the only opportunity you get to approach someone is on the job, and a lot of times, people do not want that interaction. They’re always looking over their shoulder.”
CWA Members at AT&T Mobility in the Southeast Reach Tentative Agreement: Members of the Communications Workers of America (CWA) at AT&T Mobility in the Southeast have reached a tentative agreement on a new contract. The new deal includes job upgrades, wage increases, better working conditions, stronger job security and more. The bargaining team also was successful in negotiating better health care and parental leave benefits, and limitations on the outsourcing of jobs.
LIUNA Members Secure Wage Gains After 3-Day Strike: More than 600 workers who work for the city of Portland, Oregon, went on strike for three days, culminating in a tentative agreement that raises their wages. These workers, who are members of Laborers (LIUNA) Local 483, are currently voting on contract approval, with ballots due by Feb. 24. They are pushing for higher wage increases than the city initially offered after agreeing to forgo cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) during the pandemic. “All through COVID we’ve been taking concessions and agreeing to furloughs and not getting our COLA,” said Holland Reini (LIUNA), a welder for the Portland Bureau of Transportation. “With how the economy is and how underpaid we are, we’re not keeping up with private industry.” The contract provides the LIUNA members with at least an 8% raise retroactive to July with cost-of-living increases scheduled each year of the contract, which goes through the end of 2025.
Five Fire Districts in Festus, Missouri, Join IAFF Local 2665: Over the past five months, firefighters at five departments in Jefferson County, Missouri, have voted to join Fire Fighters (IAFF) Local 2665. It’s the fastest growth the local has seen. “Our local has never seen anything like this,” said Local 2665 Fifth District Vice President Paul Vessells. “Jefferson is a small county and everybody talks. No one had any complaints—they just want a contract and to ensure both sides have a playbook moving forward.” The firefighters are pushing to secure full-time staffing by getting an April 5 ballot measure passed. Half of the district’s firefighters are currently paid through a federal grant that ends in 2024. “If we lose six fire fighters, we’d have to shut down a firehouse, and that’s going to impact the safety of taxpayers and the well-being of those on shift,” said Capt. Mitch Nelson of the Hillsboro Fire Protection District. “Joining the union will provide us with a huge return on investment.” Not only would the measure help maintain current staffing levels, it could help the department expand. “Local 2665 will be a big asset in helping us grow, plus it offers many special programs and will help us negotiate our contract,” said Capt. Brian Schlichting of the Festus Fire Department.
IAFF in Orion Township, Michigan, Ratify First Contract: Fire fighters in Orion Township, Michigan, members of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Local 5342, recently ratified their first contract. The local formed in August 2021 and immediately began working with the city on a first contract. Representatives of Local 5342 said the negotiations were amicable, but there were numerous issues to iron out. “We are very pleased with the new labor-management agreement between Local 5342 and Orion Township,” said Michigan Professional Fire Fighters Union President Matthew Sahr. “Both sides trusted the process and negotiated in good faith. The result was one of the best first contracts I’ve seen.” The contract covers the next three years and includes a 3% pay raise each year, increased employer contributions to 401(k) retirement plans, time off for union activities and other benefits. Local 5342 President Chris Hagan (fifth from the left) said the contract will help improve recruitment and retention.
UAW Strike at HarperCollins Ends as Tentative Agreement Reached: Three months after members of the International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America (UAW) went on strike at HarperCollins, the publisher and the union have reached a tentative agreement. The contract, facilitated by a federal mediator, still must be ratified by UAW members. The new agreement includes an increase in minimum salaries and a $1,500 one-time bonus. More details will be released about the contract, which would last through the end of 2025. UAW represents approximately 250 employees in editorial, publicity, sales, marketing, legal and design work.
Workers at Talking Points Memo Ratify New Three‑Year Contract: Workers at Talking Points Memo (TPM), one of the longest-running political news sites, ratified a new contract. The workers, who are members of the Writers Guild of America, East (WGAE), unanimously approved the new agreement that covers three years. The contract contains numerous gains for TPM staffers: new minimum salary levels, pay increases every year of the contract, increased severance minimums, more vacation days, expanded professional development, improved health and safety standards, commitments to diversity, among others. In a statement, TPM Union/WGAE members said: “We’re thrilled to have won the fight for a contract that protects and improves working standards at TPM. After 8 months of bargaining, we have won key concessions from management that include industry-standard salary floors, a comp time policy that meets the needs of our unit, and annual increases that ensure members’ pay will keep pace with inflation. This contract would not have been possible without the solidarity and teamwork of the entire TPM unit. We’re proud of this contract, our unit, and WGAE, which helped to secure the provisions in this contract that all of our members deserve.”
Portland Workers Reach Tentative Agreement After Strike: After launching the first strike among the city’s workers in two decades, Portland city workers reached a tentative agreement on Saturday. More than 600 workers, members of Laborers (LIUNA) Local 483, went on strike Thursday after a year of negotiations broke down. The two sides participated in 12 hours of mediation before coming to the agreement, which still must be approved. Members of Local 483 fix sewage leaks, clean trash at city parks, clear streets of ice and snow, among other tasks. “I think there’s a lot of work yet to be done, but this is a great foundation to build upon for our membership and really for working standards in the whole Portland community,” said Local 483 field representative James O’Laughlen. “If we did not get investment of this kind, I think we were going to see a mass exodus of people from this contract. It’s hard to live in this community financially.” The new contract is for four years and includes a 3% raise for the first year, which is retroactive to July 2022, as well as a cost-of-living adjustment. In the second year, another 5% cost-of-living adjustment is scheduled, and after that, the final two years of the contract will see increases based on the federal consumer price index.
WGAE Members at HuffPost Secure Agreement and Avoid Strike: At 1:43 a.m. on Feb. 1, HuffPost Union (an affiliate of the Writers Guild of America, East [WGAE]) reached an agreement on a new contract with HuffPost’s parent company, Buzzfeed. The new contract still has to be approved by the membership, and the union is withholding details until the deal is ratified. In a statement, the members of the HuffPost Union said: “For months, the HuffPost Union made clear we would not settle for anything less than a fair and equitable contract—and our unit stood together until the bitter end, united against proposals from management that sought to take this newsroom backwards. In the end, we secured a deal that is full of victories, big and small, for our members. It’s a testament to the power of solidarity and the strength of our unit, 98% of whom signed a strike pledge that successfully put management on alert. We are incredibly proud of this new contract, which will build a better future for HuffPost and the talented individuals who work here, and raises the bar for our entire industry.”
Fordham Resident Attendants Organize with OPEIU: More than 77% of resident assistants (RAs) at the Rose Hill campus of Fordham University signed a petition for union recognition with Office and Professional Employees (OPEIU) Local 153. The resident assistants presented the petition to the school’s administration and demanded voluntary recognition of the new unit. The resident assistants live in dorms, and support the health and safety of 20 to 70 student residents. “As an RA I have been put in many high stress, challenging and occasionally dangerous situations,” said senior resident assistant Peter Wolff. “While these situations are a part of the job, Fordham University and Fordham Residential Life express a disregard for RAs well-being and a lack of support for RAs doing critical work. Fordham’s lack of respect is also emphasized in inconsistent and unprofessional communication to RAs. This is why we organized a union to improve the quality of life for residents through greater support for RAs.” Despite the challenging nature of the work, resident assistants are often compensated with a dorm room to live in and a meal plan or stipend for food. This is classified as financial aid and can reduce other aid given to students. This compensation process treats resident assistants unfairly and unequally, even if they do the same work. The Fordham resident assistants join a trend of similar workers at other universities joining OPEIU, including Wesleyan University, Barnard College and Tufts University, who have all unionized in the last year.
Nebraska State Workers Ratify Contract with Significant Wage Increases: Members of the Nebraska Association of Public Employees (NAPE), AFSCME Local 61, ratified a new collective bargaining agreement that includes the largest salary increases state workers have seen in at least 35 years. The new contract will provide the majority of employees with wage increases of 5% and 2% over the next two years. For critical and hard-to-fill positions, the increases will range from 10% to 27%, making it much easier for the state to resolve worker shortages in several agencies. Positions for jobs such as accountants, snowplow drivers, social services workers and driver’s license examiners, among others, were in short supply because salaries lagged behind the private sector. “We’re hoping this helps us deliver the high quality services that Nebraskans expect,” said NAPE’s Executive Director Justin Hubly.
Rhode Island’s Savoy Bookshop & Cafe Workers Join UFCW: Booksellers and baristas who work at the Savoy Bookshop & Cafe in Westerly, Rhode Island, recently secured voluntary recognition of their efforts to join the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 328. The new workers stated their goals in a letter to management: “Our decision to organize is the result of months of conversations between staff, other booksellers, and our families. It is rooted in love of our work, our community, and our personal and professional investment in the company’s success. It is a reflection of our passion for our workplace and a confirmation of the workers’ integral functions within it. Our goal, in good faith, is a secure future for ourselves and the company. We are looking forward to an equitable seat at the table to determine Savoy’s role in the community and the broader independent bookstore landscape.” “We are so pleased that the company is upholding its values by recognizing our union,” said Danielle, a bookseller and inventory lead. “It is an important first step towards a more transparent, collaborative workplace. In this spirit, we are looking forward to beginning negotiations.”
TWU Dispatchers at Southwest Airlines Reach Tentative Agreement After 4 Years: Dispatchers at Southwest Airlines, members of Transport Workers Union (TWU) Local 550, have reached a tentative agreement after four years of negotiations. The local’s board of directors voted unanimously to submit the agreement to the full membership for approval. The agreement includes industry-leading pay increases and quality-of-life improvements, and helps the workers who have been without a collective bargaining agreement for four years. Local 550 President Brian Brown lauded the hard work by the members to make the agreement finally come to fruition: “Herb Kelleher [co-founder, later CEO and chairman emeritus of Southwest Airlines until his death in 2019] once said that ‘dispatchers are the heart of the airline.’ We prove him right every day by ensuring a safe, efficient, and reliable operation for our customers and flight crews.”
BCTGM Members Secure New Contract at Ingredion After 175‑Day Strike: After nearly six months on strike, Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers (BCTGM) members at Ingredion in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, overwhelmingly ratified a new collective bargaining agreement that protects seniority rights, maintains benefits and work rules, safeguards work hours and increases wages. The strike by more than 120 members of BCTGM Local 100G began Aug. 1, 2022. “This has been a long and difficult fight for our striking members and their families,” said BCTGM International President Anthony Shelton. “With each new day on that picket line, fighting for what they deserve, our members grew in strength, courage and determination. I could not be more proud of these hard working members who put it all out on the line to fight for a fair contract. I am proud of the tenacity of our striking members at Ingredion and commend the union negotiating committee for their rock-solid commitment to achieving a fair and just contract for the members of Local 100G. The members went out as one, stood strong as one, and will all come back as one.”
On‑Air Workers at Los Angeles‑Based Telemundo 52 Vote to Join SAG‑AFTRA: Anchors, reporters and other on-air talent at KVEA TV/Telemundo 52 in Los Angeles voted overwhelmingly to affiliate with SAG-AFTRA. The union already represents Telemundo employees at the network’s studios in Chicago, New Jersey and Washington, D.C. The new SAG-AFTRA members will begin negotiations on a fair collective bargaining agreement, in solidarity with workers at KNBC 4, another station owned by Telemundo’s parent company NBCUniversal (which itself is owned by Comcast). “SAG-AFTRA continues to organize Spanish language media and entertainment workers nationwide,” said SAG-AFTRA National Executive Director Duncan Crabtree-Ireland. “The resounding victory of 18 yes to 1 no tells management that our newest members are serious about getting to work bargaining a union contract. This result exemplifies our union’s dedication to ensuring all workers in media and entertainment, regardless of the language they report in or perform in, are guaranteed just wages and safe working conditions—and a strong voice at their workplace.”
The Animation Guild Secures Voluntary Recognition for Union Drive at Nickelodeon: The Animation Guild, Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 839, has secured voluntary recognition for a group of unionizing production workers at Nickelodeon Animation Studios. The company agreed to recognize the bargaining unit of 177 workers that includes production coordinators, production managers, asset production coordinators and others. This will be the largest unit of production workers to join The Animation Guild so far and they will now begin negotiations for their first union contract. “By doing this, the studio has shown that they are willing and ready to recognize the hard work, time and love we pour into our productions,” said the organizing committee in a statement. “We are so excited to work with them and our artist colleagues to come to an agreement that reiterates their support for what we do.” One of the primary goals for the new unit will be to increase inadequate pay, which makes it challenging for production workers to afford living in Los Angeles. Many animation workers must seek overtime, additional jobs, loans or financial help from friends and family.
Machinists Overwhelmingly Ratify Contract Extension with McGee Air Services: More than 2,300 workers at McGee Air Services, an Alaska Airlines subsidiary, ratified a two-year contract extension that provides one of the highest pay scales for airline operation vendors. The workers, members of the Machinists (IAM), work in Arizona, California, Oregon and Washington. The extension includes an immediate 5% wage increase, later wage increases, a ratification bonus, a 401(k) plan, employer-funded life insurance, enhanced grievance procedures and more. “Our members called for this agreement extension, and I am happy that our team was able to deliver for the membership,” said IAM District Lodge 142 President and Directing General Chair John Coveny. “We stood in solidarity to achieve increased wages and benefits over the next two years. I am proud of what we accomplished in such a short period. Our work does not end here. Our members at McGee will continue to work on the next steps once this agreement extension is complete. This agreement will impact companies similar to McGee Air Services, and our leadership team will continue raising the bar in this sector.”
After 3 Days on Strike, New York Nurses Secure Safe Staffing Ratios: After a three-day strike, more than 7,000 nurses at two New York City hospitals secured a tentative deal that includes concrete, enforceable safe staffing ratios. The nurses are members of the New York State Nurses Association (NYSNA), an affiliate of National Nurses United (NNU), and they returned to work this morning. “This is a historic victory for New York City nurses and for nurses across the country,” said NYSNA President Nancy Hagans, RN. “NYSNA nurses have done the impossible, saving lives night and day, throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, and now we’ve again shown that nothing is impossible for nurse heroes. Through our unity and by putting it all on the line, we won enforceable safe staffing ratios at both Montefiore [Medical Center] and Mount Sinai [Hospital] where nurses went on strike for patient care. Today, we can return to work with our heads held high, knowing that our victory means safer care for our patients and more sustainable jobs for our profession.” Nurses at a third New York City hospital also reached a tentative agreement last night and withdrew their 10-day strike notice.
AFGE Members Secure an Average Pay Raise of 30% and Expanded Rights Under Title 5: Transportation security officers (TSOs) won a historic pay raise that brings TSO salaries in line with the general schedule that most federal workers fall under. The TSOs also secured expanded workplace rights under Title 5, which also covers most federal workers. TSOs are the workforce that keep air travelers safe, and the improvements to their pay and bargaining rights are long overdue. The salary increases will provide the underpaid TSOs an average increase of 30%. TSOs are currently among the federal government’s worst-paid employees. The increased wages will be paid for under the 2023 omnibus budget bill President Biden signed in December, and they go into effect July 1. “These transformational improvements to pay and rights were made possible by 20 years of activism on behalf of union members at the TSA, and I thank these AFGE leaders for their tireless efforts to remedy the shameful treatment of employees at TSA,” said AFGE National President Everett Kelley. “I look forward to working closely with Administrator [David] Pekoske and the administration to ensure the swift implementation of this new determination and pay equity to improve the quality of TSA jobs as quickly and efficiently as possible.”
Yale Graduate Teachers and Researchers Join UNITE HERE: In a major victory, graduate teachers and researchers at Yale University have voted to form a union with UNITE HERE Local 33. More than 90% of the voters who cast a ballot voted “Union Yes.” “For decades our campaign has fought to improve the working conditions of graduate workers on our campus,” said Madison Rackear, a grad researcher from the Genetics Department. “We’ve been inspired by the union standard that our sibling unions Locals 34 and 35 have achieved through decades of organizing. I’m looking forward to winning a great first contract that will make graduate education at Yale more accessible to other working-class scholars.” The workers will negotiate for a list of improvements, including better dental and vision coverage, more accessible mental health care, guaranteed time off, protections for international workers, strong grievance procedures, cost-of-living adjustments, increased transparency and more. “COVID has really highlighted the precarity of our work and the need for stronger workplace protections,” said Adam Waters, a graduate teacher from the History Department. “The results of this election show that grad workers agree: our work makes Yale work, and we deserve a seat at the table through our union and a contract.”
UFCW Members in Rhode Island Approve First Contract at Seven Stars Bakery Locations: Baristas, key holders and restockers at Seven Stars Bakery locations in Providence, Rumford and Cranston, Rhode Island, voted unanimously to approve their first contract. The workers secured the new agreement after three months of bargaining and are represented by United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 328. The new contract is the first of its kind for retail workers in the state. It includes immediate wage increases for all employees, future pay increases, guaranteed minimum work hours, improvements to vacation and holiday premium benefits, increased retirement contributions, improved grievance procedures, and numerous other improvements. “This contract victory shows, above all else, that workers have power! We have a real stake in this company and we are glad that will be recognized in our new contract. I am so proud of all of my coworkers for sticking together through this whole process,” said Charlie Saperstein, a barista at the Point Street location. “Here’s to a better Seven Stars!”
AFGE Celebrates Pay Increase and Expansion of Rights for TSA Officers: The working people who protect America’s skies are among the federal government’s worst-paid employees. The budget bill signed by President Biden last week includes funding to help fix pay for these workers. Some $398 million was approved to increase wages. Additionally, $61 million was allocated for hiring new employees and $94 million for retention of exit-lane employees (who work directly with passenger safety) of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). In related news, the collective bargaining rights for transportation security officers, who are members of AFGE, were expanded after a new determination was issued by TSA Administrator David Pekoske. “These transformational improvements to pay and rights were made possible by 20 years of activism on behalf of union members at the TSA, and I thank these AFGE leaders for their tireless efforts to remedy the shameful treatment of employees at TSA,” said AFGE President Everett Kelley. “I look forward to working closely with Administrator Pekoske and the administration to ensure the swift implementation of this new determination and pay equity to improve the quality of TSA jobs as quickly and efficiently as possible.”
IAM Members at Frito-Lay in Puerto Rico Ratify Strong New Contract: Workers at Frito-Lay in Puerto Rico ratified a new contract with Machinists (IAM) Local 2725 that includes salary increases, improved benefits and better working conditions. Members of Local 2725 are employed as merchandisers for the snack food company. “We are proud of the IAM members at Frito Lay for standing together to improve everyone’s future,” said IAM Southern Territory General Vice President Rickey Wallace. “This contract will serve as a footprint to set higher standards for workers in the industry everywhere.”
ZeniMax Workers Form First Microsoft Union; Become Largest Certified Video Game Studio in the U.S.: A supermajority of quality assurance (QA) workers at Microsoft’s ZeniMax Media voted to join ZeniMax Workers United/CWA. Microsoft voluntarily recognized the new union, the first studio at the company to secure union representation and the largest unit of QA testers at a game studio in the United States. ZeniMax Workers United/CWA seeks to transform the company to benefit workers, players and the company. “Before us is an opportunity to make big changes and bring equity to the video game industry. We want to put an end to sudden periods of crunch, unfair pay, and lack of growth opportunities within the company. Our union will push for truly competitive pay, better communication between management and workers, a clear path for those that want to progress their career, and more,” said Victoria Banos, a senior QA audio tester at the company’s Maryland location. Zenimax Workers United/CWA joins the wave of game and tech workers at Activision, Alphabet, Apple, and dozens of other companies who have organized with CODE-CWA to build a better workplace.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 03/28/2023 - 13:09Tags: Organizing
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Pierce County Labor Council Supports Tacoma Art Museum Workers
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service + Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
On March 22, the Pierce County Central Labor Council (in Washington) supported a rally by Tacoma Art Museum workers who are seeking recognition for the union they have chosen to form with AFSCME Council 28. Pictured here is Carrie Morton, a store manager at the museum and an Organizing Committee member. Some 70 supporters showed up to support the union. The workers have been seeking recognition since October.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 03/28/2023 - 09:58Strikes Fuel Pay Increases: 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.
Low-Wage Workers Have Seen Historically Fast Real Wage Growth in the Pandemic Business Cycle: “Over the past 40 years, low- and middle-wage workers in the U.S. labor market have experienced only a few short years of strong growth in real (inflation-adjusted) wages. The current business cycle is a notable exception for the lowest-paid workers in our economy. Even in the face of rising prices, low-wage workers have experienced historically fast real wage growth. Large policy investments, combined with a tight labor market, made these strong gains possible. Women and Black and Hispanic workers have particularly benefited. But these workers still face steep wage gaps relative to men and white workers. And the nation’s lowest-paid workers still receive wages that are inadequate to meet most families’ basic needs. Policymakers need to strengthen labor standards so that workers can lock in the gains made and continue to build on them, even in weaker labor markets.”
Strikes Fuel Biggest Pay Raises in Labor Contracts Since 1990: “Contracts ratified last year called for first-year wage raises averaging 5.7%, the review of 817 deals showed. That marks a significant jump over the 3.7% average first-year increase in agreements ratified in 2021, and the highest average rate in more than 30 years. The recent union wins at the bargaining table reflect increased worker militancy, labor relations observers said. Last year saw the most worker strikes in nearly 20 years.”
Graduate Unions: Why Student Workers at University of California, Temple, More Are Striking: “Academic workers are having a moment. This past year, 2,500 NLRB petitions were filed for union elections and graduate workers at MIT, Yale, Northwestern, Johns Hopkins, Boston University, and the University of Chicago represented the six largest. And graduate workers weren’t the only ones organizing: Non-tenure contingent faculty mobilized at Howard, NYU, The New School, Fordham, and Rutgers. Union organizing has also spread to the University of Southern California, Syracuse University, the University of Illinois Chicago, Washington State, Barnard, Dartmouth, Wesleyan, and the University of Alaska, among other campuses.”
A Surprising (and Growing) Gender Gap in the Most Dangerous Jobs: “By almost every measure, the American workplace is getting safer. But one troubling type of injury is on the rise: violent attacks that cause injuries so severe that the victim misses a day of work. And the increase has come almost entirely in attacks against women. That’s a deadly serious finding, and one we did not expect. After all, our analysis began with the intriguing discovery that the Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses includes a category called 'self-tasered—unintentional.' This database of workplace injuries is incredibly detailed, offering a concise but wide-ranging portrait of tragedy and mishap in the American workplace. It tells us how often workers are strangled by another person and how often they are caught in running machinery.”
The Minimum Wage Fight That Will Define the Decade: “'When this legislation was originally proposed, we would be well on our way to the $15 minimum wage,' said William Spriggs, chief economist for the AFL-CIO and a Howard University professor. 'I think all of us are reevaluating what we think that number should be.'”
AFL-CIO’s Department for Professional Employees Sets Legislative Agenda: “The Department for Professional Employees, AFL-CIO, with which a dozen entertainment industry unions are affiliated, has set its policy agenda for the 118th Congress, centered on creating diverse talent pipelines, incentivizing diversity in hiring and strengthening creative professionals’ workplace rights. 'Union professionals in the arts, entertainment, and media industries remain committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion,' said DPE President Jennifer Dorning. 'The updated DEI policy agenda for the 118th Congress allows union creative professionals to continue building off gains made in collective bargaining that provide for more inclusive, representative industries.'”
The Case for Business Leaders to Work Collaboratively with Unions: “Democrats in Congress have reintroduced the Richard L. Trumka Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act, a bill that would create new protections for workers seeking to unionize. Last week, witnesses appeared to testify to the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions, including Liz Shuler, president of the AFL-CIO. Speaking in favor of the PRO Act, Shuler’s testimony also included an invitation to workplace leaders: 'Unions and the labor movement stand ready and willing to work together with businesses all across this country: innovating together, becoming more skilled and efficient, and creating better outcomes for everyone,' she said. As interest in unions among professional and desk-based workers continues to rise, navigating the relationship with organized labor is an increasingly important skill for leaders in industries like tech, media, and education. And amidst this groundswell of union organizing, employers have an opportunity to rewrite the traditionally adversarial relationship between labor and management, argues Shuler. We spoke with Shuler about what that shift might look like. Here are excerpts from our conversation, lightly edited for length and clarity.”
‘SNL’ Strike Threat Lifted for Now as Postproduction Workers Reach Tentative Deal with Management: “An impasse on contract negotiations that led to postproduction workers threatening a strike has been resolved, at least for now, as labor and NBCUniversal management have reached a tentative deal. The workers, who had been negotiating their first contract as a union allied with the Motion Picture Editors Guild (MPEG), had previously set a deadline of April 1. If a deal wasn’t reached by that date, workers vowed to strike the live NBC comedy series.”
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 03/27/2023 - 11:27Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Michigan Repeals Right to Work
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service + Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
On Friday, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed historic legislation to restore workers’ rights and increase wages. The bills include requirements for state contractors to pay union-level wages, strengthening the state’s anti-discrimination law by adding LGBTQ+ protections, and a repeal of “right to work.”
“After decades of anti-worker attacks, Michigan has restored the balance of power for working people by passing laws to protect their freedom to bargain for the good wages, good benefits, and safe workplaces they deserve,” said Michigan State AFL-CIO President Ron Bieber (UAW). “Ten years ago, Governor Whitmer was standing side by side with well over ten thousand working people who showed up in Lansing to protest the devastating attack on their rights. Today, she has demonstrated yet again her unwavering commitment to putting working families first. After decades of attacks on working people, it’s a new day in Michigan, and the future is bright.”
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 03/27/2023 - 10:27Virtual Event: Lifting up women on the shop floor
Picture a manufacturing worker. Are you imagining a woman wielding a torch or assembling an SUV?
The manufacturing sector provides good jobs with family-supporting wages and benefits, which do not require four-year degrees. More women should hold these jobs.
Yet they are underrepresented in manufacturing, particularly in the highest-paying jobs. This industry is poised to grow as the United States invests billions of dollars in infrastructure, technology and clean energy.
Join the Institute for Women’s Policy Research (IWPR) for a webinar to discuss the policies needed to create fair and equitable access to good production jobs in manufacturing. All workers should be part of this growing workforce.
When: Tuesday, March 28
Noon ET
Where: Virtually
Register
IWPR will be launching its new report, Advancing Women in Manufacturing: Perspectives from Women on the Shop Floor.
You’ll hear the voices and experiences of women in manufacturing—especially union members and those who have completed apprenticeships. Learn about what helps and hinders their access, retention and success in good manufacturing jobs.
Sign up here.Speakers include Latifa Lyles, special assistant to the president for gender policy, White House Gender Policy Council; Leeann Foster, international vice president, United Steelworkers; Ariane Hegewisch, senior research fellow, Institute for Women’s Policy Research; Lark Jackson, program director, Chicago Women in Trades’ National Center for Women’s Equity in Apprenticeship and Employment; Zoe Lipman, deputy director, AFL-CIO Industrial Union Council; Alexandra Patterson, director of policy and strategy, Home Grown; and Shana Peschek, executive director, Machinists Institute.
Tags: Apprenticeships
Nursing Home Initiative to Right America’s Injustices
The worst of the pandemic appears to be over but make no mistake: Our country is still dealing with the loss of life and disability left in its wake as millions of families are still recovering from this tragedy. It also revealed a truth about the inequitable economic treatment of women and workers of color.
Women dominate caregiving occupations, which are undervalued and underfunded. Women are paid less and lack access to child care and paid sick leave, even though they are often the ones who need it most. Women regularly face pay discrimination, yet they are the majority of workers in occupations that are not covered by the Fair Labor Standards Act, the federal labor law that ensures a minimum wage. Women are the most likely to be vaccinated against COVID-19, affording protection to others. But many lack a union, a voice at work to protect their own health, safety and economic interests.
Nowhere is this more true than in the nursing home sector, which is dominated by low-wage women of color: 87% of these workers are women, 61% are people of color and 27% are immigrants. The median hourly wage for nursing home workers is $13.56, and the median annual salary is only $20,200. As a result, 44% of this workforce live at or near poverty and 45% rely on some kind of public assistance. No worker should have to live under such miserable economic conditions; it’s especially egregious because caretaking is so grueling. We should be rewarding those whose work is caring for the most vulnerable among us. The poor economic conditions endured by this sector reflects our country’s institutional misogyny and racism.
Care work in homes and in institutions has a direct historical connection to slavery. Enslaved black women worked as servants in private households performing the most strenuous and unpleasant tasks. After slavery was abolished, black women continued to work as domestic workers in private households while earning very little. It’s past time we recognize and right these wrongs and compensate these workers fairly.
In 2021, President Biden announced a new initiative to establish a national minimum staffing standard for nursing home workers, improve compensation and make it easier for these workers to join a union. This is surely one of the single biggest ongoing initiatives to address the inequities facing women and workers of color; it is also one of the best solutions for addressing the emotionally difficult and physically dangerous working conditions these workers face.
The labor movement is already a movement for working women. Union women know the best way to combat injustice is with a union. Union members have greater access to paid sick days and parental leave. Nearly all union members (94%) have health insurance through our employers, compared with 69% for nonunion workers. Women covered by union contracts lost fewer jobs between 2019 and 2020 than women who were not in unions.
As the numbers show, it’s time to organize more nursing home workers. Numerous states, including Arkansas, New York and others, have acted during the pandemic to improve working conditions in this sector—creating pilot programs to pay nursing home workers more and increase staffing levels to improve working conditions.
But we know that having a union is the best way to make sure workers continue to get a fair shake, even after state legislatures have moved on to other issues.
The Biden administration’s initiative would improve the quality of care for nursing home residents and their families. Far too many are willing to overlook the working conditions that women and workers of color face. All of us will age, and many of us will come to need some kind of assistance or elder care. Many workers are already struggling to care for aging loved ones. We may overcome serious medical conditions, yet face a lifetime of ability challenges. We want older and disabled people living in a facility to get the best possible care and live out their final years in engaging and supportive environments. That can’t happen unless workers there are paid fairly, treated right and are able to thrive.
Audrey Edmonds Wed, 03/22/2023 - 13:58Call: Paycheck Fairness Act
The Paycheck Fairness Act increases penalties when employers violate equal pay provisions. It also makes it unlawful to prohibit employees from discussing their wages. Take two minutes to ask your senators and representative to support the Paycheck Fairness Act.
Make a Call.Today is Equal Pay Day because women have to work until March 14, 2023, to earn what a man made in 2022.
The gender wage gap leads to a loss of some $400,000 over the course of a working woman’s career. For women of color, that loss is even steeper. Read that again: $400,000.
The Paycheck Fairness Act would help close the wage gap in a few different ways by:
- Making it unlawful to prohibit employees from talking about their wages.
- Increasing penalties for violating the equal pay provision.
- Directing the Department of Labor to provide trainings for negotiating compensation and working conditions.
It’s time. Women should get equal pay for equal work.
If you agree, take two minutes to call your senators and representative. Tell them to vote YES on the Paycheck Fairness Act.
Audrey Edmonds Tue, 03/14/2023 - 14:14Tags: Equal Pay
International Women’s Day
Women are now nearly 50% of the workforce—yet inequality in the workplace continues. Unequal pay, harassment and discrimination are just some of the abuses women face daily.
But when women stand together, they can demand equality. And a union contract delivers.
We must do everything we can to protect our right to organize, especially from union-busting CEOs like Howard Schultz at Starbucks.
On Tuesday, Liz Shuler, president of the AFL-CIO, spoke at the Senate, imploring senators to pass labor laws that protect our constitutional right to organize and collective bargaining.
Watch President Shuler's Testimony (Starts at 11:54)
The quickest way to equal pay (and equal treatment in every way) is a union contract. And we need laws that protect us and our right to organize.
Tags: Women's History Month
2023 Women Labor Leaders
This Women’s History Month, we’re profiling leaders who are making women’s history across the labor movement today.
There’s been a surge of organizing by women. Some 60% of workers organizing in the past decade have been women, and that means female leadership is the rule, not the exception.
Here are just a few of the women leaders organizing in 2023.
Electrical Workers (IBEW)
Tracie Roberts is an IBEW Local 291 member who works for the Idaho State AFL-CIO. This November, she will celebrate her 10-year work anniversary.
Everyone in the labor movement in Idaho knows who she is due to all her work with the state federation. Roberts is a true powerhouse who is always helping locals, central labor councils (CLCs) and anyone in the labor movement when she’s not working.
Tracie Roberts, IBEW Amelia “Amy” KayesElevator Constructors (IUEC)
Amy Kayes has been a leader and mentor to the women in IUEC Local 8.
Sharen Davis
Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE)
Sharen Davis is a proud member of the Costume Designers Guild Local 892 and an Emmy Award–winning and two-time Academy Award–nominated costume designer.
United Association of Union Plumbers and Pipefitters (UA)
Kimberly Charlton is at the top of her class. She was a huge part of building Warriors Stadium. There are six union members in her family, and union participation goes back three generations. She takes pride in her union and has certifications in medical gas, pex and brazing. Charlton is learning to weld and always working to do her best. She is always giving 100%, and she stands behind the union concept indefinitely.
Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE)
Patricia White is the director of IATSE’s Department of Education and Training and serves as president of New York City Theatrical Wardrobe Union Local 764. She also sits on the New York City CLC Executive Board. In 2013, White also was elected to the position of international trustee.
Patricia White, Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Sarah Varga
Laborers (LIUNA)
"As a member of LIUNA Local 464, I have learned that I don’t need a college degree to have good wages, insurance and a pension. Since joining the union, my mental health has improved because I don’t dread work. Union membership has made a difference for me financially. I don’t need to worry whether or not I can afford to go to the doctor or what I will be eating at night. LIUNA has made a great impact on not only myself, but also my union brothers, sisters and siblings."
Sarah Varga, Laborers (LIUNA) Pauline Mims
International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America (UAW)
As the political and legislative chair of UAW Local 276, Pauline Mims is creating space for more union sisters to be heard and seen, and empowering them to shift the Texas political landscape. As a state president of the Coalition of Labor Union Women, she is elevating the voices of Black voters and helping build CLC voter turnout programs.
National Nurses United (NNU)
Catherine Kennedy is a registered nurse, member of the Council of Presidents for the California Nurses Association/National Nurses Organizing Committee (CNA/NNOC) and vice president of National Nurses United (NNU). A staff nurse at Kaiser Permanente Roseville in the neonatal intensive care unit, she has been an outstanding advocate for nurses in her position as commissioner to the California Healthcare Workforce Policy Commission (2013–2021).
Additionally, she is a current member of the California Health Workforce Education and Training Council under the state’s Department of Health Care Access and Information (2021 to present) and advocates via her exceptional mentorship and cultural competency work with California Nurses Foundation (CNF). She is also a passionate public supporter for the NNU and CNA/NNOC campaigns for Medicare for All.
In October 2017, Registered Nurse Response Network, a disaster-relief project of CFN and NNU, chose Kennedy to lead a team of 50 volunteer registered nurses to aid Puerto Rico in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria, coordinating with a 300-person relief delegation from the AFL-CIO.
Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA)
Capt. Paula Battreal is a member of ALPA and flies the Boeing 767 for FedEx Express. Capt. Battreal has been flying for FedEx for 23 years. She was one of the youngest women hired at the company and, as a result, will be No. 1 on the seniority list when she retires. Capt. Battreal recently served as the seniority block 2 status representative on the FedEx Master Executive Council. During her time as part of the leadership structure, she was instrumental in standing up the FedEx pilot union’s first Diversity and Inclusion Committee.
Professional Aviation Safety Specialists (PASS)
Veronica “Ronni” Benedetto, an aviation safety technician at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), has dedicated her life to helping others. She began her federal career in the Civil Rights office at the Department of Defense and transferred to the FAA in 1996. She became a PASS contract representative in 2015 and is the union’s designated rep to assist workers who have been injured on the job navigate the workers’ compensation process. “Being a union member is the best job insurance one can have!” says Benedetto.
Kesheona Darden
Boilermakers (IBB)
Kesheona Darden is currently an apprentice—and also a shining star. Intelligent, driven and capable, she is co-chair for the Communications Workers of America (CWA) Women at Work Committee. She is a great example of a working mother, making it happen.
Grace Catania
Communications Workers of America (CWA)
Grace Catania is a longtime member of The NewsGuild-CWA (TNG-CWA) Local 34071. She is an immigrant to this great country, having left her home country of Poland in 1980, when she was 20. She moved to the United States moments before martial law was imposed in response to the Solidarity Movement. Having arrived in the United States with no connections except an older uncle, Catania had to make her own way. She studied English and landed a union job as a member of the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW).
In 1994, she began a career as a per diem court interpreter while continuing to work in retail. She and her peers worked against the “contractor” classification and were finally recognized as employees when the Chicago Newspaper Guild Local 34071 was recognized as the bargaining unit in 2004. Soon after, the union obtained a first contract and better working conditions. Since then, Catania has served as interpreters’ unit steward, unit chair and contract bargaining team member. She became active in the local union and rose through the ranks to become the president. She also has served as a member and chair of the CWA National Women’s Committee. In addition, she was part of the Illinois Legislative Political Action Team and lobbied at the state and national levels. She has participated in many marches and actions, and actively supported other units in the local. Catania is proud of her three children and seven grandchildren, and lives in the suburbs of Chicago.
Grace Catania, CWA Deborah SpencerInternational Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE)
Debbie Spencer is a groundbreaking labor leader who became IFPTE Local 195’s first female president in January 2023. With 28 years of experience in New Jersey’s labor movement, Spencer represents members in the inspection, investigation and security, crafts, maintenance and operations, as well as New Jersey state employees. Prior to her election as president, Sister Spencer served as a business representative for Local 195, for which she negotiated contracts and handled grievances. Additionally, she co-chaired her union’s organizing committee and held the position of local secretary beginning in 2007. She started her union career as a school bus driver and proudly maintains her commercial driver’s license with passenger endorsement to drive a school bus.
Kisha Byrd
United Steelworkers (USW)
Kisha Byrd is an active member of USW Local 10-00086 in Norristown, Pa., and serves as Women of Steel coordinator for USW District 10. She helps organize activities year-round, including a Christmas party for local families and volunteer days at a local pantry and soup kitchen. She believes every worker has power in the union. “We all have our different personalities that come together to create what we have,” says Byrd.
Kisha Byrd, United Steelworkers (USW) Pamela BoydTheatrical Stage Employees (IATSE)
Pam Boyd has been working with IATSE Local 336 for 35 years and has served as an officer for 18 years. She strived to bring our local into the computer age and to this day is still managing our online website. She is our local union coordinator, political coordinator, IATSE Arizona AFL-CIO, fought H.B. 2112 in 2016 and has done so much more. Our thanks goes to you, Sister Boyd. In solidarity, your brothers, sisters and siblings of IATSE Local 336.
AFSCME
Heather Burke is a social caseworker with Adams County, Colorado, where she helps children in need find adoptive homes. Burke helped lead the effort to organize her co-workers to form her department's first union through AFSCME and advocated for passage of Colorado's collective bargaining expansion for county employees. Burke knows that by having a voice on the job, she and her co-workers can better fight for the resources and support they need to serve the children and families who depend on them.
Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT)
Debbie Lee Stevens is an industrial painter by trade, with more than 30 years in the Industry. She is a leader by nature and continues to share her knowledge as a national instructor. She has achieved certifications, such as National Association of Corrosion Engineers (NACE), CIP 3, C3, C5 and, most recently, NACE CCA Examiner status. Stevens is a mentor and takes pride in her training and skill sets to encourage the "why" in the next generation.
AFGE
Jessica LaPointe is the president of AFGE Council 220, which represents 30,000 Social Security Administration (SSA) employees, 70% of whom are women, in contract negotiations. She is also the vice president of AFGE Local 1346, a steward, the legislative and political coordinator, and the women’s and fair practices coordinator at the local. Before she was elected as president at Council 220, LaPointe was a bilingual generalist claims specialist in the SSA field office in Madison, Wis. In addition to her work in the labor movement, LaPointe is a mother of 21-year-old twins, a 10-year-old son and a 3-year-old daughter. She is also an avid capoeirista as part of the Madison Omulu Capoeira group.
Tags: Women's History Month
Black History Month Profiles: Desirae Beatty
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 Desirae Beatty of the United Steelworkers (USW).
Desirae Beatty is a new but mighty member of the United Steelworkers (USW) and has worked to bring solidarity to her local, which represents workers at four Allegheny County (Pennsylvania)-run assisted living and senior facilities. She's been a certified nursing assistant for 17 years and is the epitome of what we look for in labor activists. “We have shown the county and Kane that we can organize and move as one, and we are ready for a positive change," she said.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 02/28/2023 - 10:00Tags: Black History Month
Black History Month Profiles: E. Faye Butler
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 E. Faye Butler of Actors' Equity Association (AEA).
A member of Actors’ Equity Association since 1986, E. Faye Butler has made union activism an important part of her lasting career. Since joining Equity, Butler has been a member of the national council as well as several policy-driven committees, including the production committee, which oversees the Broadway contract. She was a founding co-chair of Equity’s Equal Employment Opportunity Committee, and as a current member of the touring committee, she is at the bargaining table right now negotiating for a new contract.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 02/27/2023 - 10:00Tags: Black History Month
Black History Month Profiles: Dewanda Mitchell
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 Dewanda Mitchell of AFGE.
AFGE's Dewanda Mitchell is a retired 20-year Army veteran who served as a military police and correctional officer. She joined the Department of Veterans Affairs where she became the first African American chief of police for the VA Outpatient Clinic Downtown L.A. in 1993. She has spent three decades working and advocating for workers, veterans and cancer survivors. She recently received the doctorate degree in humanitarianism from the Global International Alliance Advocate University. She also received the “I Am A Superwoman” Award from the British Parliament. She is a two-time cancer survivor and currently serves as the president of the Ovarian Cancer Coalition of Greater California, where she helps host annual 5K walk/runs, luncheons, and other events to help raise funds and awareness.
Kenneth Quinnell Sun, 02/26/2023 - 10:01Tags: Black History Month
Black History Month Profiles: Derrick McDonald II
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 Derrick McDonald II of the Office and Professional Employees (OPEIU).
Derrick McDonald II is a shop steward with OPEIU Local 153 who works at Advantage Care Physicians. Through the power of his union, McDonald advocates for his co-workers and his community. A skilled organizer, McDonald also currently serves on his union’s bargaining team. “We’re still fighting the same fight Dr. King was fighting,” he said. “For equal pay, equal protection under the law, a right to be heard and a seat at the table.”
Kenneth Quinnell Sat, 02/25/2023 - 10:01Tags: Black History Month
Black History Month Profiles: Linda Hunt
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 Hunt of UNITE HERE’s Culinary Union.
Linda Hunt is a food server and an active member of UNITE HERE's Culinary Union (Local 226) for the past 42 years. In 2022, she took a leave of absence during the 2022 elections to help elect leaders who would champion issues important to working people: “We aren’t going to give up. We will keep fighting every day. We vote. We win!”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 02/24/2023 - 10:15Tags: Black History Month
Black History Month Profiles: Clint 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 Clint Brown of the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW).
Clint Brown joined the staff of United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 881 in 1986 as a union representative. He has held many positions with the local, and his efforts have been instrumental in fighting for the rights of workers across Ohio, from paid sick leave to minimum wage increases and many more. Brown's service to the labor movement is extensive. He has been a member of the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU) and delegate to CBTU's international convention, a trustee and active member of the Minority Coalition of the UFCW International, as well as president of the Chicago chapter of the A. Philip Randolph Institute.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 02/24/2023 - 10:01Tags: Black History Month
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: YouTube Music Strike Reaches Day 14; Alphabet Workers Stand Strong
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Workers at YouTube Music have been on an unfair labor practice (ULP) strike for two weeks against Cognizant Technology Solutions and Google. The vast majority of the workers, who filed for recognition with the Alphabet Workers Union (AWU-CWA Local 1400) in October, were hired remotely and the companies’ announced “return to office” plan ordered those workers to move to Austin, Texas, or they would lose their jobs. The workers then went on strike.
The workers say that Cognizant is desperate to break the strike and has engaged in smear tactics against low-wage workers. Google refused to call on Cognizant to end the return to office mandate, making them part of the problem. The workers demand that Cognizant and Google put an end to union-busting and the mandate, and allow their workers to freely exercise their right to organize.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 02/24/2023 - 09:30Tags: Strikes
Major League Soccer Players Formally Affiliate with AFL-CIO
The Major League Soccer Players Association (MLSPA) today announced its formal affiliation with the AFL-CIO. The request to affiliate was unanimously approved by the MLSPA’s Executive Board and approved at the AFL-CIO’s Winter Executive Council meeting in early February. MLSPA members will join the more than 12.5 million workers who make up the unions of the AFL-CIO.
“From locker rooms and classrooms to coffee shops and warehouses, workers all over the United States are demonstrating the power of organizing on a daily basis,” said MLSPA Executive Director Bob Foose. “Over the past twenty years, our players have fought to improve the working conditions and rights of athletes in Major League Soccer. We look forward to working with the AFL-CIO and standing beside its member unions as we fight for every worker, whether it be an athlete or a stadium employee, with one collective voice.”
“When we speak with one voice, when we’re united in solidarity, our collective power is undeniable,” said AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler. “This affiliation is about building that power for workers and ensuring professional soccer players have the strength of the entire labor movement behind them every single day. We’re thrilled to welcome the MLS Players into the AFL-CIO. This is historic—joining together in this pivotal moment in our economy will raise standards for all working people and the communities where we live, work and play.”
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 02/23/2023 - 14:46
