Women's History Month Profiles: Sandy Thompson-Wallace
This year, for Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's 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 Sandy Thompson-Wallace of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT).
Sandy Thompson-Wallace is president of TOTEM in Anchorage, Alaska. She also serves as president of the Alaska Public Employees Association/AFT. Thompson-Wallace worked in the largest school district in Alaska as a paraprofessional for many years, recently receiving her 25-year service pin. She successfully negotiated pay raises for her members after tough negotiations with the local school district.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 03/22/2022 - 10:00Tags: Women's History Month
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: LIUNA, IUOE Call for Investment in Minnesota’s Water Infrastructure
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.
Members of Operating Engineers (IUOE) Local 49 and the Laborers (LIUNA) union in Minnesota are urging the state government to increase investment in water infrastructure. Together, as part of a coalition with Conservation Minnesota and the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities, the unions called on state legislators to pass critical funding to clean up Minnesota’s water supply.
Joel Smith, president and business manager of LIUNA Minnesota and North Dakota, said: “Transformational investment in our water infrastructure will multiply career opportunities and training for local workers, and build momentum to bring more women, veterans and people of color into the construction industry.” The Minnesota state government announced last month that it has a $9.2 billion budget surplus.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 03/22/2022 - 09:31Confirm Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson: 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.
A. Philip Randolph Institute:
APRI family and friends! Please find the 51st APRI NEC call letter and registration forms here, and you also can print them from the https://t.co/dv53dlnJ1E website!
Also be aware, rooms are filling up fast so please go to https://t.co/fgBCupYNjA to reserve your room today!! pic.twitter.com/YU1eT9vdiT
Actors' Equity:
ICYMI - “This law asserts that neglect or penalization of a worker due to their natural hair texture is racist and illegal. We urge swift passage in the Senate,” says @AEAPresident Kate Shindle.
Read our full statement - https://t.co/6b8DJPkBZb pic.twitter.com/uVOHltsCUG
AFGE:
The private sector isn’t capable of treating veterans in the integrated way they're treated when they visit a VA hospital.
If the VA moves forward with this plan, veterans will suffer. #SaveMyVAhttps://t.co/egyRepXCKJ
AFSCME:
A judge for working people will be a #JusticeForAll. We are proud to be at #SCOTUS today to call for the Senate to #ConfirmJackson expeditiously. pic.twitter.com/hrJ7GEvPOR
— AFSCME (@AFSCME) March 21, 2022Alliance for Retired Americans:
ICYMI: Seniors might get lower Medicare premiums this year.
But it all depends on how @HHSgov decides to cover Biogen's expensive Alzheimer's drug, Aduhelm. https://t.co/SdXgHUQ4BV
Amalgamated Transit Union:
Another brutal attack on a TTC worker. We wish our Local 113 Brother a quick recovery. It’s long overdue for the TTC to better protect our members and our riders. https://t.co/mVVu0Doapl #NotOneMore
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) March 21, 2022American Federation of Musicians:
Announcing the new Welcome to @The_AFM video--created to introduce new members to the benefits of membership. It's an excellent resource for local officers in conjunction with membership drives and organizing campaigns. https://t.co/qbpO7Q0tYi
— AFM (@The_AFM) March 16, 2022American Federation of Teachers:
#JudgeJackson’s life story is the story of America - daughter of Florida public school teachers, proud public school graduate & member of law enforcement family #SCOTUS https://t.co/FutSYRVEOZ
— AFT (@AFTunion) March 21, 2022American Postal Workers Union:
Today marks the 52nd anniversary of the Great Postal Strike of 1970, a massive wildcat strike of more than 200,000 postal workers which won postal workers collective bargaining rights for the first time in American history.
Let us never forget the power of the word: STRIKE! pic.twitter.com/wm53nUnrk0
Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance:
#Immigrant workers are integral to our society. They are nurses, teachers, farmworkers, drivers, engineers, innovators, creators, builders, nurturers, and so much more. Like puzzle pieces, they are necessary to build & complete the whole picture. #WeAreHome #CitizenshipNow pic.twitter.com/bsDta7i5YW
— Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance, AFL-CIO (@APALAnational) March 20, 2022Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:
"Our hearts go out to the family & loved ones of crew and passengers on China Eastern Flight 5735. AFA-CWA is offering our support to our sisters & brothers at China Eastern Airlines."
Any Flight Attendants, family or affected aviation community may call AFA EAP at 800-424-2406 https://t.co/4XQnYDVqdH
Boilermakers:
#Boilermakers can keep up with the latest union information and connect to helpful resources with our app📱
Text "ibb" to 47177 or access the app here ➡️ https://t.co/SQBFdCSur0#BoilermakersUnion pic.twitter.com/WX2MBNWbBF
Bricklayers:
Congratulations to all our 2022 BAC Craft Award Winners! You are the true testimonials of the “Best Hands in the Business!”#1u #skilledtrades #BestHandsInTheBusiness pic.twitter.com/4Abv39GBl9
— Bricklayers Union (@IUBAC) March 18, 2022Coalition of Black Trade Unionists:
Register for the CBTU 51st Convention today! If you are not a CBTU or Union member, you can register as a guest!
Visit https://t.co/RoiQ9O0JIS for registration and convention information.
Convention Dates: May 25-30, 2022 pic.twitter.com/dtAolvIO9n
Coalition of Labor Union Women:
Transparency is the 🔑! If we’re going to achieve #equalpay in our lifetimes, employers need to be clear about how they decide salary and raises. Join the #EqualPayWeekofAction by raising awareness with us each day this week about how we can close the #wagegap. pic.twitter.com/2W2Gq37gaA
— CLUW National (@CLUWNational) March 10, 2022Communications Workers of America:
Check out this week's CWA worker power update! https://t.co/a7tPrwgGkj
— CWA (@CWAUnion) March 20, 2022Department for Professional Employees:
Union professionals need a champion on the bench who will defend and protect their rights as workers, including their right to join together in union. Judge Jackson has a strong legal track record of fighting on behalf of working people. #1u pic.twitter.com/CBLmThE3jy
— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) March 21, 2022Electrical Workers:
Voting now open for the #IBEW photo contest. Deadline is 3/25. https://t.co/xTwhh7pFE1
— IBEW (@IBEW) March 20, 2022Fire Fighters:
City trailblazer: Boston’s first female firefighter #WomensHistoryMonth https://t.co/MG4DKoEb7F
— IAFF (@IAFFNewsDesk) March 21, 2022Heat and Frost Insulators:
Insulation should be viewed as a business investment, and you will begin to see a ROI in sometimes less than a year. Find out how properly installed mechanical insulation can save you and your business money: https://t.co/CWhCParPKN pic.twitter.com/bnRkcuEJAw
— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) March 21, 2022International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers:
CAP Union President Marissa Alayna Navarro: “Through Our Union, We Are Creating Bold, Progressive Change in Our Workplace and Beyond” https://t.co/7XUCQ3tGSb
— IFPTE (@IFPTE) March 12, 2022Ironworkers:
Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson has a long history of fighting on behalf of workers. #1u
Make sure your Senators know that Ironworkers support the nomination of Judge Jackson to the US Supreme Court. #ConfirmJackson #SCOTUS
Sign Here: https://t.co/cuOG0MljB7 pic.twitter.com/s9OA2fxObu
Jobs With Justice:
Quick thread on some GOOD NEWS from the Dept of Labor! 🧵(1/3)
Prevailing wage laws under the Davis-Bacon Act, if implemented correctly and implemented alongside other policies, is an important policy to improve conditions for BIPOC and women workers.
Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:
In 73% of Illinois households w/ kids, ALL parents work. In Illinois, 84% of Black mothers, 47% of Latinx mothers, and 47% of white mothers are key breadwinners in their families. When women earn less, families suffer. #EqualPayDay2022 #HealthierWithFairPay @shevotesil
— LCLAA (@LCLAA) March 15, 2022Laborers:
NEWS: #LIUNA is proud to partner with Navigator to build the innovative new carbon capture and storage pipeline - Heartland Greenway. #UnionStrong #1U https://t.co/KDwKRAHgun pic.twitter.com/TS248rdOWS
— LIUNA (@LIUNA) March 18, 2022Machinists:
Today (and everyday at the IAM👩🔧) we celebrate one of our most infamous union sisters on National #RosieTheRiveter day! Thank you hardly seems enough for all the Rosies who helped this country win the war and change the world. https://t.co/vohKCZ3JLf pic.twitter.com/ENFKf4g52M
— Machinists Union (@MachinistsUnion) March 21, 2022Maritime Trades Department:
AFL-CIO JOINS FORCES OPPOSED TO USVI SECOND REGISTRY https://t.co/2QLv6lOO8A pic.twitter.com/f4dTwfBhVL
— MaritimeTrades (@Maritime_Trades) March 17, 2022Metal Trades Department:
Add your name today to help end discrimination in voting practices. #SidelineTheFilibuster #FreedomToVotehttps://t.co/wcHL25UFgM
— Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) March 18, 2022Mine Workers:
“82 years they haven’t had a place to call home. Now they’re home.” - International District 31 Vice President Rick Altmanhttps://t.co/3ok9h3uBcT
— United Mine Workers (@MineWorkers) March 21, 2022Musical Artists:
AGMA Artists! Call for Submissions: AGMAzine. Submit a piece of writing and/or artwork by May 6 https://t.co/95Z8dvOLSS pic.twitter.com/aHcEaL5jYM
— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) March 17, 2022National Air Traffic Controllers Association:
Professional Women Controllers, Inc. (PWC) released its spring 2022 issue of The Watch. In it, National Legislative Committee (NLC) Vice Chair Trisha Pesiri-Dybvik discusses the importance of legislative advocacy. https://t.co/MHajL9uMM7 pic.twitter.com/HLZT6TfBML
— NATCA (@NATCA) March 21, 2022National Association of Letter Carriers:
Natural disasters continue to affect NALC members across the country. You can help your brothers and sisters in need with a contribution to the NALC Disaster Relief Foundation. 100% of donations from NALC members go directly to assist other members. https://t.co/gBPkjNtian pic.twitter.com/VBdr68FLu1
— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) March 20, 2022National Day Laborer Organizing Network:
Long Island is standing strong today for excluded workers - much appreciation to our beautiful @FEWCoalition partners: HAFALI, @lijwj , Workplace Project, Freeport Workers Justice Center, Hempstead Hispanic Civic Assn and more. #ExcludedNoMore pic.twitter.com/iGj8niLhN5
— NDLON (@NDLON) March 19, 2022National Domestic Workers Alliance:
When domestic workers organize, speak up, and fight, we win.
New York City domestic workers—who are overwhelmingly women of color and immigrants—will now be protected against discrimination in their workplace. https://t.co/Vq540iNELl
National Federation of Federal Employees:
NFFE Successfully Averts Murky Plan to Reorganize the FAA William J. Hughes Technical Center - https://t.co/ReaM7u1MJH
— NFFE (@NFFE_Union) March 11, 2022National Nurses United:
We couldn't agree more: @mnnurses President Mary Turner, RN, is a force to be reckoned with!
She's brought her experience as a Covid-19 ICU nurse to many crucial hearings as well as President Biden's Covid-19 Health Equity Task Force. #WomensHistoryMonthhttps://t.co/cpfiZXUsJF
National Taxi Workers Alliance:
On the day our victory with the city & the largest lender has been officially approved to start, here is what it took to get here.
O'Brien Staley Partners - you may have the wealth, but we've got the people, the righteousness of our fight and and the will to win. https://t.co/LjcIYnbEWr
NWSL Players Association:
We are calling on @FIFA to commit to minimum labor and human rights standards as it chooses 16 host cities across the U.S., Mexico, and Canada for the 2026 World Cup games in the coming weeks.https://t.co/IzB5uyul9D#FairPlayFIFA2026 #NoMoreSideHustles #WorldCup2026 @aflcio pic.twitter.com/EXSkIwL5Tr
— NWSLPA (@nwsl_players) March 21, 2022NFL Players Association:
#CommunityMVP @BrettHundley7 put a smile on the faces of patients @RileyChildrens, virtually visiting their rooms on a robot while blessing them with gifts. More great work from the @Colts quarterback, whose Hundley Foundation has a mission to improve the lives of kids in need. pic.twitter.com/7uBTJcHrws
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) March 19, 2022North America's Building Trades Unions:
We are just over TWO WEEKS away from our 2022 Legislative Conference 👀🙌
We have a great slate of events planned, so if you haven’t already registered, visit our website to book your spot today!#UnitedWeBuild // #NABTU2022
🔗: https://t.co/pF04sPa3S1 pic.twitter.com/ZpC2xMM23C
Office and Professional Employees:
Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson’s confirmation hearings are underway. If you can, please take a moment to let your senator know you want a public defender on the Supreme Court 👉 https://t.co/UjuIQcp0I9 https://t.co/0CYXqVPcH9
— OPEIU (@OPEIU) March 21, 2022Painters and Allied Trades:
Hope, irrepressible, invincible and ever-living is the driving force behind the labor movement, the inspiration of the grim determination to keep the faith and continue the fight until our dreams come true. pic.twitter.com/eWglWgdZk3
— IUPAT (@GoIUPAT) March 17, 2022Plasterers and Cement Masons:
“Compared with 2 & 4-year colleges, joint labor-management apprenticeships ... deliver a more robust training regimen, similar diversity outcomes, competitive wage & benefit levels ... while leaving graduates entirely free of burdensome student loan debt.”https://t.co/4KWXyAsDNV
— OPCMIA International (@opcmiaintl) March 21, 2022Plate Printers and Die Stampers:
Plumbers and Pipe Fitters:
Pride At Work:
@PrideatWork is proud to stand in solidarity with the PASNAP nurses at ACMH in Armstrong County, PA as they stand up for patient safety and demand a fair contract! @PennaNurses #UnionNurses #SafeStaffingSavesLives
— Pride at Work (@PrideatWork) March 18, 2022Printing, Publishing and Media Workers:
Professional Aviation Safety Specialists:
PASS member & union rep Martha Parish tells @GovExec what pandemic life has been like for this federal worker. Silver lining? "help our leadership & our management see that our workforce...is very self-motivated & they're very motivated to protect aviation safety." #publicservice https://t.co/NxUZISIcYQ
— PASS (@PASSNational) March 16, 2022Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:
Boss made a dollar
I made a dime
That was a poem
From a simpler time
Now boss makes 1000
And gives us a cent
While his employees
Can’t pay the rent
So when boss makes a million
And the workers make jack
That’s when we organize
And take our lives back#WorldPoetryDay
Roofers and Waterproofers:
Did you know? Falls from roofs are the main cause of death for workers under 44. https://t.co/sKkK2kAUxi #roofersafety365 pic.twitter.com/HxCqReTVRU
— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) March 21, 2022SAG-AFTRA:
We celebrate and honor the legacy of Chicago Local broadcaster Merri Dee, a trailblazing @WGNNews anchor, survivor and victims' rights advocate who left an indelible mark on Chicago. #sagaftramember since 1967. #womenshistorymonthhttps://t.co/KuOrYgP32G
— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) March 21, 2022Seafarers:
Maritime Labor Backs President Biden on Ukraine - Seafarers International Union https://t.co/hNKmlqh8fG #1u #Maritime #Ukraine
— Seafarers Union (@SeafarersUnion) March 9, 2022Solidarity Center:
W/ local authorities & volunteers, FPU trade union in Zakarpattia, Ukraine, helped ship more than 100 train cars of donated aid to war-torn regions. Aid incl. more than 6 tons of food, clothing, water,
medicine & hygiene supplies for children and adults. https://t.co/8T70qmbYve
TCU/IAM:
TCU remembers @RepDonYoung as a pro-labor Republican who marshaled through the "60-30" legislation to ensure quality retirement benefits to generations of railroaders and their families.
Rest in peace, Mr. Chairman.https://t.co/GPAvAk2KFV pic.twitter.com/Oa5tqiSxUt
The NewsGuild-CWA:
Great news! Management's union-busting tactics failed once again! Congratulations and welcome, officially, to our ranks. https://t.co/ALB4T6glZz
— NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) March 21, 2022Theatrical Stage Employees:
Of the eight categories to be aired retroactively as part of the Awards Broadcast on March 27, more than half are specific to IATSE represented crafts, including Film Editing, Make-up and Hairstyling, Production Design, Animated Short, and Sound. https://t.co/N1fx567cIh
— IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) March 21, 2022Transport Workers Union:
In honor of #WomensHistoryMonth the TWU will be saluting some members of the @Labor_Caucus
Today, we celebrate @RepGraceMeng (D-NY-6) the 1st female Congressmember from Queens & the 1st & only female Congressmember from Queens since VP nominee Geraldine Ferraro. pic.twitter.com/P3cYHSEvrR
Transportation Trades Department:
“There are 17,600 employees that work with this new attendance policy, and not one of them will tell you that it’s a good program at all.”
A MUST READ on how workers are suffering under a new attendance policy implemented by one of America's largest & richest railroads 👇 https://t.co/Fs8PxKjQP0
UAW:
UAW Sisters! We are proud of you! #UAWWHM #UAWWomenhttps://t.co/rqR8BMJHd8 pic.twitter.com/mAlVIzBBHX
— UAW (@UAW) March 21, 2022Union Veterans Council:
Join use and sign-up @ https://t.co/47su6NJ3BD pic.twitter.com/W5oQghVhSt
— Union Veterans Council🪖✊ Pass the #PROAct (@unionveterans) March 16, 2022UNITE HERE:
Jesus Sanchez, who works in room service at the San Francisco Hilton Union Square, said he has seen his tips dwindle from $80 a shift to maybe $5 to $8.https://t.co/yy4OgFknka
— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) March 18, 2022United Food and Commercial Workers:
#UFCWVictory ✊🏿✊🏻✊🏽✊🏾
ICYMI: More than 70 members of @ufcwlocal152 working at Barry Callebaut in Pennsauken, NJ, ratified a new contract that includes sizeable future wage increases & stronger benefits.
Read more: https://t.co/jo1TistLsw pic.twitter.com/I9VxLcwg7s
United Steelworkers:
USW Local 5 Votes Down @Chevron’s ‘Last, Best and Final’ Proposal, Prepares for Unfair Labor Practice Strike https://t.co/TIjRQeS9Rr
— United Steelworkers (@steelworkers) March 21, 2022United Students Against Sweatshops:
The #SFUSDpayusnow sit-in won a COVID code. But @SFUnified educators still need to be fully paid. @SFUSD_Supe: Fix the broken payroll system! Commit to pay all future payroll mistakes. W/o agreement the sit-in stays at 555 Franklin St. Join us!
— USAS (@USAS) March 16, 2022Utility Workers:
The January / February / March issue of the Utility Worker Magazine is available online! Check it out at https://t.co/1TVRITmfuq
— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) March 21, 2022Working America:
“Amazonians United will never be defeated!" Keep fighting the fight! Better pay and longer breaks for Amazon workers now @amazon @JeffBezos 👊https://t.co/Z7p7hCVIb7
— Working America | Pass the #PROAct (@WorkingAmerica) March 21, 2022Writers Guild of America, East:
Watch host Ashley Nicole Black's (@ashleyn1cole) opening monologue from the 2022 #WritersGuildAwards! ✒️✨🏆 https://t.co/3RMXcKSQAU
— Writers Guild of America, East / #PROAct (@WGAEast) March 21, 2022 Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 03/21/2022 - 16:51Unwavering Support: The Working People Weekly List
Every week, we bring you a roundup of the top news and commentary about issues and events important to working families. Here’s the latest edition of the Working People Weekly List.
AFL-CIO Offers ‘Unwavering Support’ to Striking Alabama Coal Miners: “The AFL-CIO’s Executive Council on [March 16] said the ongoing strike by the United Mine Workers of America against Warrior Met Coal is ‘about respect, dignity and the fundamental rights of working people. The 12.5 million members of the AFL-CIO offer our unwavering support to the striking workers,’ the statement reads. ‘#WeAreOne, and will always have their backs.’”
Culinary Union in Las Vegas Names New Leadership: “Culinary Workers Union Local 226 has announced its new leadership team following the retirement of former Secretary-Treasurer Geoconda Argüello-Kline. Ted Pappageorge, a Las Vegas native and a Culinary Union member since 1982 who worked as a busboy at the Sands, a barback at the Sundance and a bartender at the Mint, Horseshoe Club and Riviera, was appointed secretary-treasurer. He served as the union’s president from 2012 to 2022. The union also announced that Diana Valles, who worked as a guest room attendant at the Stardust and then at the Las Vegas Hilton and later as a casino porter and cook at the Flamingo, has been named the new president. Leain Vashon will continue as vice president of the union.”
What Is Equal Pay Day?: “It's Equal Pay Day 2022. The date means to symbolize the pay gap between men and women in the United States. Women would have had to work from January 1, 2021, to March 15, 2022, to earn the same amount men made in 2021. This based on the wage of the average woman who works full time compared to the wage of the average man who works full time.”
‘Completely Demoralized’: U.S. Railroad Workers Pushed to the Brink: “Workers represented by the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen, and the Transportation Division of the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail, and Transportation unions mobilized and pushed for the right to strike over the new attendance policy, but a federal judge ruled the dispute was ‘minor’ under the Railway Labor Act, meaning workers cannot legally strike over the policy. ‘This is a policy that, frankly, is just blind to the moment,’ said Greg Regan, president of the Transportation Trades Department, AFL-CIO, which represents 36 labor unions in the transportation industry. ‘They’re turning around and punishing their employees, because they’re faced with some of the challenges that they created themselves.’”
If You're Not Making $14.50 an Hour, You Probably Can't Afford to Live in Any U.S. County: “If you make federal minimum wage in the U.S., you probably can't afford to live in any of its towns. According to the Economic Policy Institute's updated Family Budget Calculator, a full-time worker with no children would need to make roughly $14.50 an hour to sustain themselves in the U.S. county with the lowest cost of living: Orangeburg County, South Carolina. That's twice the current federal minimum wage of $7.25.”
The Labor Department Seeks to Update Prevailing Wage Regulations: “‘Meanwhile, Liz Shuler, president of the AFL-CIO, said the White House and Walsh ‘continue to deliver wins for working people’ as ‘today’s proposed amendments under the Davis-Bacon & Related Acts will modernize [and] strengthen prevailing wage laws to protect 1000s of workers on federal construction projects from rampant wage theft.’”
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 03/21/2022 - 13:04Women's History Month Profiles: Cindy Estrada
This year, for Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's 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 Cindy Estrada of the UAW.
In 2014, Cindy Estrada became the first woman and first Latina to lead the UAW’s General Motors Department. She broke the glass ceiling again in 2018, when she began leading the UAW Stellantis and Organizing departments. As a dedicated organizer and activist, Estrada continues to honor the legacy of UAW members fighting for equality for all, fair wages, safe workplaces and support for the communities in which we all live and work.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 03/21/2022 - 09:34Tags: Women's History Month
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: SMART Members Ready to Upgrade Filtration Systems to Prevent COVID-19
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.
Members of the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (SMART) said they are ready to get to work implementing the Biden–Harris administration’s new guidance for air filtration standards in businesses and schools. SMART welcomed this new standard, saying it was created in partnership between the union, environmental groups and the administration as the next step in the effort to protect against COVID-19.
“Proper ventilation is not only a key to our recovery, but it will also help cut building emissions, lower energy costs, ensure systems are meeting design intent and make buildings safe for occupants,” SMART said. “Employing a skilled, trained and certified workforce to complete this work is the surest way to ensure federal dollars are used effectively and efficiently to protect public health.”
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 03/21/2022 - 09:34Women's History Month Profiles: Edith Head
This year, for Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's 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 Edith Head of IATSE.
Eight-time Oscar winner Edith Head was one of the founders of the Costume Designers Guild in 1952. She was the inspiration for the character Edna Mode in the animated film "The Incredibles."
Kenneth Quinnell Sun, 03/20/2022 - 11:00Tags: Women's History Month
Women's History Month Profiles: Roslyn Austin-Stewart
This year, for Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's 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 Roslyn Austin-Stewart of AFGE.
Roslyn Austin-Stewart is an Air Force veteran. In her union roles, she has developed programs to educate her membership on how to properly file grievances and identify and document disparate treatment, harassment and discrimination. Austin-Stewart is also active with the California Labor Federation and the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor. In 2020, she became the first-ever recipient of the AFGE Veteran of the Year award for her military, civilian and volunteer service.
Kenneth Quinnell Sat, 03/19/2022 - 11:00Tags: Women's History Month
Women's History Month Profiles: Annette Wright-De Campos
This year, for Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's 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 Annette Wright-De Campos of the Culinary Union (UNITE HERE).
After becoming a Culinary Union member in 1987, Annette Wright-De Campos brought her children to the union picket lines because they benefited from the health plans members were fighting to keep. The strike was personal to her because her family needed the benefits a union contract provided. Being a Culinary Union member meant finding security and hope for her family.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 03/18/2022 - 11:00Tags: Women's History Month
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: IATSE Donates $25K to Support Ukrainian Refugees
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service + Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
The Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) made a $25,000 donation on Wednesday to support refugees who have fled the war in Ukraine. The union’s contribution was made through the International Trade Union Confederation’s relief fund and will go to provide basic necessities to Ukrainian refugees who have been forced from their homes during the Russian invasion.
“IATSE condemns the senseless and barbaric invasion of Ukraine by Russian Forces,” the union said. “We join the global labor movement in calling for an immediate end to Russia’s military aggression and violations of international law, and we support the global governments’ use of necessary sanctions and other strategic measures to pressure the Kremlin’s decision-makers to reverse course.”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 03/18/2022 - 10:00Union Veterans Council Becomes 7th AFL-CIO Constituency Organization
During the 2009 AFL-CIO Convention, the AFL-CIO passed a resolution to form the Union Veterans Council. From its inception, the UVC was a force multiplier for union veterans and all working families in their fight for economic freedom and security. And we are proud to announce today that because of our success and growth the UVC is becoming its own nonprofit labor organization that was just recognized by the AFL-CIO Executive Committee as only the 7th official constituency organization in history.
This decision by the UVC board, with the support of the AFL-CIO will allow us to scale our programmatic work and capacity to be even more effective as we fight to help union veterans and all working families better their lives.
The Union Veterans Council's foundation will remain unchanged and our mission to bring working-class veterans together to speak out on the issues that impact us most remains the same. With this recognition we are prepared to scale the UVC to be the labor movement's force multiplier and organization that is always there for the fight!
The Union Veterans Council was built to protect working-class veterans and their interests. We will continue to do so now with greater authority and reach. I want to thank everyone who was a part of this transition and for your continued support in the next part of our journey.
In addition to the UVC, the other AFL-CIO constituency organizations are: A. Philip Randolph Institute, Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance, Coalition of Black Trade Unionists, Coalition of Labor Union Women, Labor Council for Latin American Advancement and Pride At Work.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 03/17/2022 - 14:11Tags: Union Veterans Council
Together, We Win: 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:
Together, We Win: Senate Sends Postal Service Reform Act to Biden’s Desk: On Tuesday, the U.S. Senate passed the Postal Service Reform Act by a broadly bipartisan vote of 79-19. Together, the labor movement ensured it happened. America’s postal service unions are celebrating this landmark win to strengthen our U.S. Postal Service (USPS).
“This is a monumental victory for letter carriers and all Americans who depend on the Postal Service for affordable and high-quality universal service,” National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) President Fredric Rolando said. “I want to congratulate and thank all the NALC members who lobbied their members of Congress to win passage in the Senate and the House. Thanks to your support, dedication and action, bipartisan postal reform, that was 12 years in the making, has finally passed in both chambers.”
“It is not an exaggeration to say that this bill is one of the most critical pieces of postal legislation in modern history—the struggle to win postal reform has been 15 years in the making,” said American Postal Workers Union (APWU) Legislative and Political Director Judy Beard. “Thanks to the efforts carried out by postal workers, our sister unions, allied organizations and the American public, comprehensive postal reform is now a reality.”
“The Postal Service Reform Act repeals the burdensome 2006 mandate for the USPS to pre-fund its retiree health care benefits and aligns retiree health care with the best practices in the private sector that lower premiums for NPMHU members and our fellow postal employees as well as safeguarding benefits. According to the Congressional Budget Office, the legislation will save the federal government over $1.5 billion over the next 10 years,” National Postal Mail Handlers Union (NPMHU) National President Paul Hogrogian said. “I look forward to President Biden signing this bill into law and providing the Postal Service with much-needed fiscal stability.”
“The first overhaul of the Postal Service in more than a decade, this crucial postal reform legislation provides the Postal Service with substantial financial relief to help it remain viable well into the 21st century. I would like to personally recognize Chairman Peters, Ranking Member Portman and Majority Leader Schumer for their bipartisan efforts to get postal reform all the way to the finish line,” said National Rural Letter Carriers’ Association (NRLCA) President Ronnie Stutts. “I also want to thank all of the senators who voted ‘yes’ to help put America’s Postal Service on firm financial footing.”
ATU Scores Two Landslide Union Election Victories in One Day: Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 689 in Maryland won two separate union elections by overwhelming margins last Tuesday, showing that transit workers are fed up with being mistreated and ready to organize and fight back. Overcoming what the workers called “disgusting union-busting tactics,” Loudoun County Transit employees voted 71–2 to form a union with Local 689. And workers at James H. Duffy Co., a private school bus contractor, unanimously voted 18–0 for union representation. “Companies in this region better take notice. You can either spend thousands or millions of dollars on union busting campaigns or you can use that money to take care of your workers,” said Raymond Jackson, president and business agent for Local 689. “And for any workers at a transit company where they feel disrespected and underpaid, come meet with us, our doors are always open.”
After Three Years of Organizing, IAM Members Win First Contract: More than 100 workers at the Cascades Containerboard plant in Niagara Falls, New York, ratified their first union contract earlier this week after voting almost three years ago to form a union with the Machinists (IAM). In their long struggle for respect at the bargaining table, the IAM members at the Canadian company rallied support from across the labor movement as well as members of Congress. “I could not be more proud of these members for their solidarity, courage and dedication to get the first contract for each other,” said IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President Brian Bryant. “This has been a long time coming, and there aren’t many groups that could continue to display the solidarity and patience these members have. The longer the process has gone on, the more resolve these members have shown.”
GMG Union-WGAE Members Ratify Strong Agreement: Members of the Gizmodo Media Group (GMG) Union-Writers Guild of America, East (WGAE) have won a powerful new contract, ending their six-day strike. They were the first digital media workers to organize with the WGAE, and on Wednesday, they overwhelmingly ratified a contract that achieved a long list of their goals. The new agreement covers workers at a number of popular websites owned by G/O Media, including Gizmodo, The Root and Lifehacker. “After six days of striking and four days of strong physical and virtual picket lines, our bargaining unit is thrilled to have a new contract,” the bargaining committee wrote. “Ninety-nine percent of the GMG Union voted to ratify the return-to-work agreement that raised wages for all union members, increased parental leave and minimum severance, required trans-inclusive health insurance and beat back management’s attempt to control how we spoke about our working conditions.”
Groundwork Workers Ratify First Union Contract: Workers with the Groundwork Collaborative Union ratified the first collective bargaining agreement in the company's history. With the ratification of the contract, the workers at Groundwork have secured increased pay, paid time-off, telework, promotion, hiring and other benefits. “Our members are so excited to enact this first contract as a critical step toward ensuring that staff—especially our Black and brown coworkers—are heard, supported, and valued in our workplace,” said Heather Henriquez a member of the Groundwork Collaborative Union.
Alaska Safeway Workers Secure New 3-Year Contract: The 1,000 members of the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 1496 that work for Carrs Safeway in Anchorage and Eagle River, Alaska, voted unanimously to approve a new contract. The new deal covers three years and includes significant pay increases, increased upward mobility and earning potential, improved access to dental and vision insurance and improved workplace safety.
Times Tech Workers Form One of the Largest Tech Unions in the Country: Tech workers at The New York Times voted to certify their new union, The Times Tech Guild, an affiliate of The NewsGuild-CWA (TNG-CWA), becoming one of the largest tech unions in the U.S. Negotiations will begin for their first contract and the workers are focused on improved pay, diversity and equity and more fairness in the workplace. The new unit represents about 600 software engineers, product managers, designers, data analysts and other workers. “We’re just elated and really soaking in what this means, not only for us as tech workers at The Times and for The New York Times but also for the tech industry as a whole,” said Nozlee Samadzadeh, a senior software engineer. “I think this is going to be the start of a wave of organizing in the tech industry.”
REI SoHo Workers in New York Overwhelmingly Vote to Join RWDSU-UFCW: Workers at the REI Co-Op in Manhattan voted with an 86% majority to join the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union-UFCW (RWDSU-UFCW). “History was made today! We’re excited to welcome the workers of REI SoHo into the RWDSU, marking the first-ever unionized REI store in the whole country,” said Stuart Appelbaum, president of RWDSU-UFCW. “These workers have vast expertise in their field and have worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic to serve the outdoor community. They have stuck together through a horrendous union-busting campaign and have come out the other side stronger. The workers of REI SoHo are ready to negotiate a strong contract that will allow them to uphold the co-op’s progressive values while providing the top-notch service REI customers have come to expect. With a seat at the table, workers can make working at REI safe and sustainable for years to come.” The new bargaining unit will cover more than 100 workers, including all full- and part-time sales specialists, technical specialists, visual presentation specialists, shipping and receiving specialists, certified technicians, operations leads, sales leads, and shipping and receiving leads. “I am proud to be here in this moment with my coworkers at REI SoHo as a part of this new wave of unionization efforts that is sweeping the nation,” said Claire Chang, a member of the union’s organizing committee. “As members of the RWDSU, we know we will be able to harness our collective strength to advocate for a more equitable, safe, and enriching work environment. A union is necessary for many of us to achieve more stability and security in our lives which could allow for us to explore and play more outside of work!”
New Jersey Food Processors Win New Contract That Raises Wages and Protects Benefits
UFCW Local 152: More than 70 members of UFCW Local 152 ratified a new contract with Aunt Kitty’s Foods in Vineland, N.J. Aunt Kitty’s is owned by Hanover Foods; this location produces chili and soup for other companies. The new three-year contract includes large across-the-board wage increases, protects existing health care benefits and allows members to opt in for voluntary supplemental benefits, including life and disability insurance and sickness. Members also can pay into Local 152’s fund that assists members suffering financial hardship because of illness or injury. Many members also will receive additional paid sick leave.
SAG-AFTRA Reaches Agreement with New York Public Radio Over Unfair Labor Practice Claims: In 2021, SAG-AFTRA filed an unfair labor practice claim with the National Labor Relations Board. This week they reached a settlement and SAG-AFTRA has withdrawn the claim. Provisions of the settlement include “an extension of just cause protections to reporters and on-air hosts; a one-time 3% wage increase in July 2022 for all bargaining unit employees making under $100,000 per year; enhancements to NYPR’s parental leave policy; and a resolution of claims brought by the union regarding personnel issues pertaining to individual staff members.”
BCTGM Members at Jon Donaire End Strike, Ratify New Contract: Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers (BCTGM) Local 37 (in Los Angeles) members on strike against Rich Products-owned Jon Donaire Desserts plant in Sante Fe, California, voted on Wednesday to ratify a new collective bargaining agreement, bringing an end to the strike that began on Nov. 3, 2021. The new contract provides wage increases, maintains health care coverage and improves working conditions—demands that workers fought for. About the agreement, BCTGM International President Anthony Shelton said: “This has been a long and difficult fight for our striking members and their families. With each new day on that picket line, fighting for what they deserve, our members grew in strength, courage and determination. The Jon Donaire members made enormous sacrifices in order to achieve a fair contract that provides significant wage increases, maintains their excellent health insurance and improves working conditions. The BCTGM is grateful for the tremendous fraternal support we received from across the labor movement throughout the country—from Los Angeles to Buffalo, N.Y., the backyard of Rich Products.”
Workers at iHeartPodcast Network Secure Voluntary Recognition of New Union: After weeks of negotiation, workers at the iHeartPodcast Network have secured voluntary recognition of their new unit, which is represented by WGAE. The 110-member unit consists of writers, producers, editors and others in storytelling roles in Atlanta, Los Angeles and New York. “We’re incredibly excited to win official union recognition and secure our seat at the table to bargain for appropriate wages and benefits, accountability mechanisms, and other long-standing issues for our colleagues and ourselves,” said the members of the iHeartPodcast Network Organizing Committee. “We now look forward to engaging in good-faith negotiations with the company, and are confident that this process will ensure the continued success and stability of the podcast industry.” Top priorities for the new union are raising wages and benefits to industry standard levels, job growth opportunities, job security, better working conditions and other gains. The workers will now begin negotiating their first contract.
IAM Members at Hawaiian Airlines Overwhelmingly Ratify Strong Contracts with Job Protections, Pay Raises: Some 2,500 IAM members overwhelmingly ratified strong five-year contracts with Hawaiian Airlines on Wednesday. These union members won the best job protections and largest pay raises for clerical and related agents, as well as ramp, aircraft and ground support equipment mechanics in the airline’s history. The new agreements provide significant wage increases, limit employee contributions for health care and raise mandatory overtime pay. “Our members at Hawaiian Airlines and across the transportation sector have kept the world moving through[out] this pandemic,” said Richard Johnsen, IAM’s chief of staff to the international president. “They deserved a contract that gives them the respect they have earned, and I’m proud to report that this has been accomplished.”
UFCW 7 Gets Another Victory in Colorado: The same union that led a successful strike against King Soopers in January has scored another victory for working people in Colorado and Wyoming. UFCW Local 7 reached a tentative agreement with Safeway and Albertsons stores. The contract covers 5,400 employees and will provide wage increases and substantial gains in health care, vacation and sick leave. “This agreement, which was secured without the need for a strike, ensures that workers receive paid sick leave, fair pay, a safe workplace, and access to affordable health care,” Local 7 President Kim Cordova said.
Texas National Guard Members Join Texas State Employees Union: Members of the Texas National Guard joined the Texas State Employees Union (TSEU), an affiliate of Communications Workers of America (CWA) and the Texas AFL-CIO. These workers spoke up about the unacceptable working conditions the state has provided them while they have been deployed at the Texas-Mexico border. Texas AFL-CIO President Rick Levy said: “The Texas AFL-CIO welcomes Texas National Guard troops joining the Texas State Employees Union. We applaud TSEU leadership for extending its vision to help our troops address the inexcusable work environment they are navigating in ‘Operation Lone Star.’ Texas National Guard troops bravely serve our state and nation on many fronts, including disaster relief. They did not sign up for unclear assignments outside their traditional jurisdiction, late paychecks, or disruption of everyday lives and threats to mental health caused by an open-ended, politicized deployment. Members of our Texas National Guard serve with pride. They deserve better than what Gov. Greg Abbott has created—an ill-defined operation with no end in sight. All workers deserve a union. National Guard members subjected to this stunt know that using their voice together is how change happens. The Texas AFL-CIO joins with TSEU in demanding that the state respect their work in a manner consistent with their sacrifice.”
Duke University Press Workers Vote to Join The NewsGuild-CWA: After a turbulent year of organizing, workers at Duke University Press have successfully voted to join TNG-CWA. The university contested the election, but the National Labor Relations Board repeatedly denied requests for a new election. The workers are asking Duke to respect the election results and begin bargaining. The new union is seeking to negotiate a $45,000 pay floor for all employees and to improve paid medical leave and parental leave benefits.
Nurses Celebrate Step Forward for Gender Equity in California’s Workers’ Comp System: Last week, members of the California Nurses Association/NNU (CNA/NNU) applauded the California state senate for passing a bill that will ensure that nurses and other health care workers are automatically presumed to be eligible for workers’ compensation if they experience some common work-related conditions. California already has laws on the books that grant many public safety workers who are predominantly men presumptive eligibility for certain conditions. “It’s so common that nurses have to jump through hoops, while we’re sick or hurt, just to receive paid time off for illnesses or injuries that we got at work,” explained Cathy Kennedy, RN, president of CNA/NNU. “The disparity in workers’ comp protections is sexist. Our heroic first responders and law enforcement workers deserve all the protections they have. Nurses are simply asking for those same protections.”
Air Traffic Controllers in Tennessee Join NATCA: The National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) announced on Monday that workers at the John C. Tune Federal Contract Tower are joining the union. Located in West Nashville, Tennessee, John C. Tune Airport (JWN) is the busiest general aviation airport in the state. Workers at the tower serve the needs of regional, corporate and private aircraft. “JWN [workers] joined NATCA because of the dedicated and passionate members who will go above and beyond to help protect our rights and working conditions,” said JWN Facility Representative Keith Cole. “Being a part of NATCA means that we have a union that cares for its membership and is ready to fight day in and day out to protect our rights and benefits.”
Workers at Civic Tech Company Win Recognition for Wall-to-Wall Union with OPEIU: A supermajority of eligible employees at Nava PBC requested voluntary recognition of their union on Thursday, and earlier today, their employer agreed. The unit of 171 employees at the public benefit corporation organized with Office and Professional Employees (OPEIU) Tech Workers Union Local 1010. Workers’ goals are to promote transparency in internal company policies, ensure pay equity, increase staff well-being and retention, and to attract new talent in a highly competitive space. “As I’ve grown as a software engineer, I’ve seen the company grow by hundreds of people,” said Sharon Warner, a senior software engineer at Nava since 2016, who explained the company’s growth has made the prospect of a union contract ever more appealing. “One unfortunate side effect of that growth is the distance between workers and leadership has grown, too. Our union will provide a framework for how to scale and maintain an open, transparent culture.”
Staff at New America Vote to Join NPEU: A supermajority of staff at nonpartisan public policy think tank New America voted to join the Nonprofit Professional Employees Union (NPEU). More than 60 eligible employees are covered by the new unit, which comes as the result of two years or organizing. The workers are seeking to build a more equitable and supportive workplace through improving transparency in pay and promotions, improving benefits and addressing organizational inequality related to race, gender, disability and immigration status. In a statement, New America United said: “We are all honored to work at New America and are deeply committed to its mission. We believe that a union is the best way to work towards the vision of New America we all hope to fulfill.... We are excited to begin the collective bargaining process and a new, more cooperative chapter in the path-breaking work that takes place every day at New America.”
King Soopers Workers Approve New Contract: Workers at King Supers (owned by Kroger Co.) went on a 10-day strike at the start of the year and that action led to a tentative contract that was recently approved by the workers. The new three-year contract covers 80 stores and includes $170 million in wage increases and additional health care investments. More than 95% of workers will see pay increases of $2 or more in the first year.
Credit Union Workers in Rochester Unanimously Join CWA: Workers at Genesee Co-op Federal Credit Union in Rochester, New York, won voluntary union recognition last week after unanimously expressing their desire to form a union with CWA Local 1170. The workers organized as part of the Committee for Better Banks, a CWA project. Genesee Co-op regularly collaborates with unions and other organizations, to advocate for a more just financial system. “We are incredibly proud to welcome Genesee Co-op credit union workers into our union family and take steps forward to a strong contract that improves their wages and working conditions,” said John Pusloskie, president of Local 1170. “Organizing a union is no easy task, but these workers have come together with a determination to truly create a better workplace for all.” He praised the credit union for respecting its workers’ right to form a union.
National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) Players Ratify First Union Contract: Members of the NWSL Players Association ratified the first collective bargaining agreement in NWSL history. The new contract includes increased salaries, increased minimum salaries, improved retirement benefits, housing stipends, a new free agency system and improvements to player safety. “From our inception, the Players Association has put players first,” said NWSLPA president Tori Huster. “Our mission in this historic CBA was to put this same philosophy at the center of NWSL’s future. With the amount of care and attention that we have given this process since Fall 2020, we are proud that players can confidently enter the tenth season of the NWSL in a better position than ever before.”
Vice Media Postproduction Workers Overwhelmingly Approve New Contract: Postproduction workers at Vice Media ratified a new three-year contract. The new deal reduces working hours without reducing compensation. The agreement was approved by 97% of eligible employees, who are represented by Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 700, the Motion Picture Editors Guild. The workers are based in Brooklyn and work on unscripted television, digital video and broadcast news. The contract ensures that the lowest-paid workers get the biggest increase. “Behind every piece of content on a screen there are hundreds of talented workers losing sleep and time well-spent with their loved ones,” said Ilari Polsonetti, an editor for "Vice News Tonight" and a member of the negotiating committee. “Today we said enough is enough, a different way of working in film and TV is possible. I hope what we accomplished here can be a stepping stone towards reclaiming the healthier work-life balance that is so badly needed in our industry.” The Hollywood Reporter has reached out to Vice Media for comment.
Workers at Elizabethtown Gas Form a Union with UWUA: Seventy workers from Elizabethtown Gas’ customer experience team have voted overwhelmingly to join the Utility Workers (UWUA) Local 601. The new members of Local 601 work in the call center, billing department and walk-in customer service centers. They are joining many of their co-workers who were already represented by UWUA, including meter readers, first responders, and measurement and regulation techs. “It was time for us to have a voice at the table to promote positive changes in the workplace to benefit us and our families,” explained Matthew Loda, a customer service representative II. “UWUA gives us that voice.” The New Jersey State AFL-CIO’s officers applauded Local 601’s organizing victory and welcomed these new union members into the state’s labor movement.
Newport News Shipbuilding Workers Tentatively Agree to 5-Year Contract: Workers at Newport News Shipbuilding, represented by the United Steelworkers (USW) Local 8888, tentatively agreed to a new five-year contract. The new agreement includes wage increases and pension improvements. Newport News Shipbuilding is the largest industrial employer in Virginia, with 12,000 workers in this collective bargaining agreement, alone. “This is a solid contract with the improvements we fought hard to win,” said Charles Spivey, president of Local 8888. “I believe this is the best deal we could bring back to our membership at this time. We stood our ground to be treated and rewarded as Essential Shipbuilders....We are pleased that the union is continuing to honor all current contract terms and conditions and that we continue to meet our mission in building ships for the U.S. Navy.”
Hundreds of Health Care Workers in Pennsylvania Vote to Join USW: Throughout the country, health care workers are joining together to fight for better pay, better benefits and safety on the job. The latest organizing win comes from some 500 health care workers at Kane Community Living Centers across the Pittsburgh region who voted unanimously last Friday to join USW. Their new bargaining unit will consist of certified nursing assistants (CNAs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs), dietary and recreation aides, housekeeping workers, and material handlers at the four Allegheny County-run assisted living and senior facilities. The new USW members said the result was a long time coming. “We’ve been striving all year to make this election happen, and I am so glad we can now move on to the work of bargaining a fair contract,” said Desirae Beatty, a 17-year employee at Kane. “We have shown the county and Kane that we can organize and move as one.”
SAG-AFTRA Reaches Agreement with Super Bowl Halftime Producers: Professional Dancers Will Not Be Asked to Work for Free: Following an “open and frank discussion,” the producers of the Super Bowl halftime show have agreed with SAG-AFTRA that professional dancers will not be asked to work as volunteers for the massively popular TV event. In a statement released on Tuesday, SAG-AFTRA said: “It is important to note that [producer] Roc Nation had always contracted for 115 paid SAG-AFTRA professional dancers as part of the stage show. We are grateful to Roc Nation, their producer and in particular our member Jay-Z, for their collaboration and commitment to professional artists. As a union, we believe all working participants should be paid and compensated for their labor, and we will be advising our professional dancer members that they should not be rehearsing or working on the Super Bowl Halftime Show without compensation. Like millions of Americans, we are looking forward to this seminal moment in hip hop history.” The agreement follows complaints from professional dancers who had been encouraged to volunteer to work the field show without compensation.
New Partnership Expands Veteran Job Opportunities in Southern California’s Utility Sector: The Utility Workers Military Assistance Program (UMAP), in partnership with UWUA Local 132 and Southern California Gas (SoCalGas), recently launched a new program to tackle homelessness among veterans through training and employment opportunities. UMAP’s effective training-to-placement model will benefit 40 veterans over the next several months, and those who successfully graduate will work for SoCal Gas as leak technicians. “This exciting new partnership between UMAP and SoCal Gas will create a clear path forward for veterans who otherwise may have faced uncertainty about what to do next after leaving the military,” said UWUA Director of Veterans Affairs and Workforce Development Rick Passarelli. “Veterans are looking for a hand up and not a handout, and this program is a lifeline when they need it. We’re excited this program can begin to benefit veterans in California.”
New York Veterinary Workers Among First in Nation to Unionize: Workers at Veterinary Specialists and Emergency Services in Brighton, New York, became among the first workers at a veterinary hospital in the country to join a union, voting by more than a 2-1 margin for the union. The new unit will be affiliated with the IAM. The workers are seeking better pay and better working conditions to help them fight burnout and turnover. "We're gonna band together and actually be able to have the conversations we've been hoping for and hopefully they'll be good negotiating partners through that process with us," said Sam Estes, an ultrasound technician and organizer.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 03/17/2022 - 13:24Tags: Organizing
Take Action: Confirm Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson to the Supreme Court
After 232 years, the first Black woman has been nominated to the U.S. Supreme Court: Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson. And if we have anything to do with it, she’ll also be the first Black woman to serve on the Supreme Court. The Senate must confirm her immediately.
Judge Jackson is eminently qualified for this critical lifetime position. Her distinguished legal career includes:
- Her term on the U.S. District Court in Washington, where she ruled on more than 550 cases;
- Her tenure as an assistant federal public defender; and
- Her experience serving as vice chair of the U.S. Sentencing Commission.
We are confident she will bring her clear commitment to equal justice and fairness to the highest court in the land.
Being the first is never easy and Judge Jackson is doing what so many women have done before her, breaking barriers to ensure that she is not the last.
Add your name to our petition say you support Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 03/17/2022 - 10:34Women's History Month Profiles: Lynda Bloomberg
This year, for Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's 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 Lynda Bloomberg of the Professional Aviation Safety Specialists (PASS).
Lynda Bloomberg joined PASS in 1997, the same day she arrived at the FAA after military service. Working in a heavily male-dominated technician workforce, Bloomberg held union representative positions at every facility where she has worked. She continues her fight to ensure the union contract is enforced equitably, regardless of gender or ethnicity.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 03/17/2022 - 10:00Tags: Women's History Month
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: BCTGM Donates Union-Made Food to AFM Members on Strike in San Antonio
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service + Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
The members of the Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers (BCTGM) know what it’s like to go through a tough strike. Securing fair contracts with food manufacturing giants like Kellogg, Nabisco and Jon Donaire Desserts all within the past year was no easy task. And it’s because of this dedication to solidarity that the international union is donating food made by its own members to support striking musicians at the San Antonio Symphony.
For months, the 72 members of American Federation of Musicians (AFM) Local 23 have been on strike against the symphony, demanding a fair contract that recognizes their labor to make the cultural organization a success. Local 23 President Richard Oppenheim expressed his thanks to the BCTGM and said this support could not have come at a better time.
“How do we as labor help our sisters and brothers?” asked AFL-CIO Executive Vice President Emerita Linda Chavez-Thompson. “We provide what’s needed to help achieve a better livelihood. Whether this be guidance, sweat, manpower or, in the case of striking symphony workers, food. Labor is always there for each other when times call for solidarity.” Chavez-Thompson was among the volunteers packing up donated food at the San Antonio AFL-CIO offices last week.
The San Antonio central labor council and the United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County will be delivering the food to all families of Local 23 in the coming days. The donated bread and snack products were made by BCTGM Local 111 members at the Bimbo Bakeries USA plant in San Antonio.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 03/17/2022 - 09:35Women's History Month Profiles: Noemi Barrera
This year, for Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's 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 Noemi Barrera of the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW).
Noemi Barrera was the lead organizer at Pindar Vineyards during the historic effort to form the first unionized agricultural workforce in the state of New York.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 03/16/2022 - 10:00Tags: Women's History Month
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: NNU Applauds Decision to End Texas’ Investigations of Trans Youth and Their Families
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.
National Nurses United (NNU) on Friday applauded a Texas judge’s decision to stop child abuse investigations into transgender youth and their families on the grounds of providing gender-affirming care. The union also affirmed its support for transgender youth, their families and the entire LGBTQ+ community. As politicians in states across the country continue to push for policies that endanger the health and safety of these communities, nurses are saying enough is enough.
“While it would be easy to view these attacks simply as political gamesmanship, and they are that, they are also a very real and grave threat to the health, existence and futures of transgender people,” said NNU President Zenei Triunfo-Cortez, RN. “Nurses know our first responsibility is to our patients, to care for them, and to advocate on their behalf based on available evidence.”
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 03/16/2022 - 09:30Equal Pay Day: 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:
Happy to see SJR 12 pass the Senate unanimously! This legislation encourages Congress to eliminate harmful social security provisions that hurt many of Alaska’s retirees. On to the House!#akleg pic.twitter.com/7EgWbCEO3q
— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) March 11, 2022Arizona AFL-CIO:
Thank you for sharing your story, @lailaddaltonn. Arizona's labor movement stands with you, and all @Starbucks workers who are fighting for better working conditions. #UnionYES @SBWorkersUnited https://t.co/0an3PoF72r
— Arizona AFL-CIO (@ArizonaAFLCIO) March 5, 2022California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:
Unions are working people standing TOGETHER, arm in arm!
We stand with you!@UFCWWSC8 #UnionStrong #1u #WhenWeFightWeWin https://t.co/3PwNU3LaPS
Colorado AFL-CIO:
It’s happening #copolitics @SBWorkersUnited United we will win! @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/EjkaDqICW2
— Colorado AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOCO) March 11, 2022Connecticut AFL-CIO:
.@UFCW Local 371 Organizing Director Jessica Petronella breaks down the types of anti-union tactics management will engage in to scare workers.
Watch the full video & learn how you can help protect workers from captive audience meetings: https://t.co/GegpsovezE pic.twitter.com/1kHscJPzeW
Florida AFL-CIO:
The 2022 Florida Legislative Session officially came to a close today.
Click here to read our Sine Die brief for a look at the key bills that faced Florida's working families this session: https://t.co/0ymi1y3xVj pic.twitter.com/Q0To2HF4QP
Georgia State AFL-CIO:
It’s a beautiful day to walk back your vote, @MeshaMainor! #WalkItBackMesha https://t.co/t5TiQf9daV
— Georgia AFL-CIO // Pass The #ProAct (@AFLCIOGeorgia) March 14, 2022Indiana State AFL-CIO:
The Biden administration is proposing changes designed to push up wages for workers at federally-funded construction projects such as interstates. 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼https://t.co/wcEpjNC9P5
— Indiana AFL-CIO (@INAFLCIO) March 14, 2022Iowa Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO:
The latest Iowa Daily Labor News! https://t.co/2BR5wHa2Rq Thanks to @UAW @AFTunion @IBEW #innovationfund #ibew
— Iowa AFL-CIO (@IowaAFLCIO) March 15, 2022Maine AFL-CIO:
Portland Professional Firefighters & @MachinistsUnion Local S7 joined Cummins workers (IAM 477) on the picket line in solidarity this week in Scarborough!
https://t.co/XSZ5FzFaBL #solidarity #1u #FairContractNow
Maryland State and D.C. AFL-CIO:
We want to thank everyone who came out last night for the #LaborReception. #1u #solidarity pic.twitter.com/esMTAXb2FI
— Maryland State and DC AFL-CIO (@MDDCStateFed) March 10, 2022Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
Proud to hold the line with @MachinistsUnion every day until an agreement is reached #1u https://t.co/ozn6IM52Fs
— Massachusetts AFL-CIO // Build Back Better (@massaflcio) March 9, 2022Michigan State AFL-CIO:
In just one month @coffee_comrades have already made such an impact on the American labor movement! @unitehere #NoContractNoBeans #ComradesInCoffee https://t.co/uW0m4Rkvcu
— Michigan AFL-CIO 💉💪 (@MIAFLCIO) March 15, 2022Minnesota AFL-CIO:
Educators are striking for safe, stable schools. https://t.co/z26DEQohsR #1u @MFT59 @MFT59ESP
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) March 15, 2022Missouri AFL-CIO:
Missouri's own Gina Walsh speaking about solving issues that address women in the trades. Take a listen! #WomenInConstructionWeek https://t.co/IcdBBiHT39
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) March 10, 2022Montana State AFL-CIO:
Today, working people let candidates know that workers are the economy and workers are watching. #mtpol #mtgov #unionstrong pic.twitter.com/bEqa9CpwV6
— Montana AFL-CIO (@MTaflcio) March 14, 2022New Hampshire AFL-CIO:
This is what #Solidarity looks like #NHPolitics #1u @PFFNH @Iaff856 ✊ https://t.co/nHlMfET8sO
— NewHampshire AFL-CIO (@NHAFLCIO) March 15, 2022New Mexico Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO:
✊ Celebrating 135 years of union brothers and sisters ✊ https://t.co/Q7jpEfThRG
— ✊ NMFL ✊ (@NMFLaflcio) March 15, 2022New York State AFL-CIO:
Ascension Living has the money to pay their Our Lady of Peace nursing home workers fairly, they just don't want to. Get the full story on our new episode of the Union Strong Podcast coming Monday, March 14th. pic.twitter.com/3GhrTyivsY
— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) March 12, 2022North Carolina State AFL-CIO:
For all NC workers currently organizing for a better life and all those thinking of doing the same, we have one thing to say. #UnionYES #1u @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/CspyBjG44l
— NC State AFL-CIO // #OrganizeTheSouth (@NCStateAFLCIO) March 10, 2022Ohio AFL-CIO:
The trade #union movement is stepping up to help the working people of Ukraine. Many have already given to great organizations. But if you have a few more dollars think of helping through the @ituc https://t.co/ADalH8OojG
— 🇺🇦 Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) March 15, 2022Oklahoma State AFL-CIO:
— Oklahoma State AFL-CIO (@OK_AFL_CIO) March 15, 2022Oregon AFL-CIO:
The Oregon AFL-CIO is proud to endorse State Rep. @MarkMeekOR! With strong, pro-worker leaders in office we can truly make progress for working families across the state. Learn more at https://t.co/XUMz6T70Ib pic.twitter.com/GQ8Hvy7Sja
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) March 12, 2022Rhode Island AFL-CIO:
We at the RI AFL-CIO were honored to meet @SecMartyWalsh at this morning’s Greater Rhode Island LERA breakfast meeting pic.twitter.com/jgftw96ytM
— Rhode Island AFL-CIO (@riaflcio) March 11, 2022Tennessee AFL-CIO Labor Council:
🚨LEGISLATIVE ALERT! It's a busy day as two major pieces of anti-worker legislation are scheduled to be heard. If you haven't done so already, please click below and tell state lawmakers to stop trying to manage private businesses & employees! #1u https://t.co/GC4wULaPKV
— Tennessee AFL-CIO (@tnaflcio) March 15, 2022Texas AFL-CIO:
Today marks the number of extra days women have to work to earn the same amount as their male counterparts in a year – and the gap is even wider for women of color.
Unionizing helps minimize pay disparities, but ALL women deserve to be paid a fair wage. #EqualPayDay pic.twitter.com/IsCqOSQBIG
Virginia AFL-CIO:
Today is #EqualPayDay . We aren’t standing for the nickel, dimes, and petty pennies on the dollar that women are earning. There’s strength in equality, and we are here for it. pic.twitter.com/B5y0OZjY7n
— Virginia AFL-CIO (@Virginia_AFLCIO) March 15, 2022Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:
After 111 days on strike, Merlino Construction finally brought a proposal to @Teamsters 174 members -including a provision to gut these workers' right to honor picket lines. This is union-busting, not negotiating. Shame on Merlino Construction! #OneDayLonger #1u https://t.co/CXCGa4QkVz
— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) March 10, 2022Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
JOIN US March 18: Ellen Bravo and Larry Miller in conversation with Tony Baez at Boswell Books in Milwaukee. Discussing their new novel celebrating a lifetime of organizing.
RSVP at https://t.co/mRRO3MwtVF pic.twitter.com/SoL8FsHHi6
Relief for the Postal Service: 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.
Congress Passes $50 Billion U.S. Postal Service Relief Bill: “In a rare display of bipartisanship for a narrowly divided Congress, the 79-19 vote follows approval by the U.S. House of Representatives in early February and sends the bill to President Joe Biden for his signature. AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler, whose union represents postal workers, said the bill was the culmination of ‘15 years of efforts to fund and strengthen USPS.’”
Phinney, Crowley and Toner: Workers Have a Climate Plan for Region: “Amidst omicron, political discord and extreme weather disasters, 2022 hasn’t brought much good news. But flying under the radar is a game-changing story about state budget surpluses that could set New England on a path to tackling some of the biggest issues of our time: climate collapse and deep inequality. Studies show that New England is warming faster than the global average. We got a glimpse of the impacts of climate breakdown during storm-fueled power outages from Hurricane Ida and this winter’s nor’easter—but intensifying weather is just the beginning. Rising seas could wipe out entire communities along our region’s coastline.”
‘A Voice That Needs to Be Heard’: “Asked about specific legislative goals for this new enhanced partnership, Randi Weingarten, AFT president, cited the AFT’s and AAUP’s previously announced New Deal for Higher Education. The proposed legislative agenda seeks reinvestment in higher education at the state and federal levels, the end of mass employment of low-paid adjunct instructors, academic freedom surrounding the teaching of inequality and U.S. history, student debt relief, and increased college access. Weingarten said the expanded relationship between the AFT and AAUP is a ‘game changer for higher education, and I think it’s a game changer for democracy. Democracy is under assault, and a strong higher education movement is needed to bolster and protect it. And I think this partnership is more than the sum of its parts.’”
Solar Panels; Liz Shuler; Local Sports; The PLAYERS : “Liz Shuler, the first female president of the AFL-CIO, spoke in Jacksonville on Friday about her vision for growing the power of labor in America, especially after two years of the pandemic.”
Punching In: No Retreat, No Surrender in $15 Per Hour Wage War: “The labor movement won’t compromise on a minimum wage less than $15, largely because rampant inflation has made that number less significant than it used to be, AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler said in an interview with Bloomberg Law. ‘Fifteen dollars, when we were fighting many years ago, sounded high,’ Shuler said. ‘But today it’s continuing to lose value if we don’t index it to inflation, so we think that’s the baseline.’”
MLB Players Association Launches $1 Million Fund to Assist Seasonal Workers Affected by Owners' Lockout: “‘Whether you're a worker on the baseball field, or a worker behind the scenes, we all deserve respect and dignity on the job,’ AFL-CIO president Liz Shuler said in a statement. ‘The labor movement will do everything in our power to support these and all workers.’”
Biden to Use Federal Purchasing Power to Increase U.S. Manufacturing: “Goods can be purchased by the federal government with tax dollars if just 55 percent of their parts were manufactured here. On Friday, President Biden plans to unveil a new regulation upping that standard to 75%. The new rule updates the Buy America Act, a 1930s-era law that requires the federal government to use taxpayer dollars on goods that are manufactured domestically.”
America Added 678,000 Jobs in February, Smashing Forecasts: “The U.S. economy added 678,000 jobs in February, exceeding economists' expectations. It was the best month for job growth since July. The nation has 2.1 million jobs to go before hitting the February 2020 level and recouping all positions lost in the pandemic, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported Friday.”
The Economy Is Recovering Fast. But We Need to Ensure It Works for Everyone: “Over the last 12 months, the economy has added 6.6 million jobs, an astonishing pace. And while there is still a significant gap in the labor market, we are on track to return to pre-pandemic labor market conditions before the end of 2022—a recovery that is roughly eight years faster than the recovery from the Great Recession, according to our own calculations. And that's because, unlike in the aftermath of the Great Recession, Congress did what was needed to spur a strong recovery this time around. We would have millions fewer jobs today if Congress had not enacted the Covid relief and recovery measures it did. And these policies have not only made the recovery faster overall, but particularly so for historically disadvantaged groups.”
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 03/15/2022 - 10:32Women's History Month Profiles: Barbara Dolney
This year, for Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's 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 Barbara Dolney of the Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE).
Over the past two years, IATSE Local 896's Barbara Dolney has helped to keep thousands of working people in their homes by working with fellow union members to organize events connecting Houston-area renters with assistance and free legal aid.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 03/15/2022 - 10:00Tags: Women's History Month
