A Brighter Future: What Working People Are Doing This Week
Welcome to our regular feature, a look at what the various AFL-CIO unions and other working family organizations are doing across the country and beyond. The labor movement is big and active—here's a look at the broad range of activities we're engaged in this week.
Actors' Equity:
Members looking for notices for video audition submissions for chorus parts can now find them in the Auditions section of the member portal.
Visit the member portal to learn more about these updated audition submission steps - https://t.co/pEqingpoQ0 pic.twitter.com/Fy1AKNOV8V
AFGE:
Here's a brief history of collective bargaining in the federal sector and what we should do with President Biden’s executive order on collective bargaining rights→https://t.co/IRVf0htN4y
— AFGE (@AFGENational) July 8, 2021AFSCME:
"DC 37 put all of its weight behind Eric because we knew he was the essential workers’ champion – clearly, New Yorkers agreed. We’re looking forward to a City Hall that puts working people first.” – Henry Garrido, executive director of @DistCouncil37. https://t.co/m1YttMgOoT
— AFSCME (@AFSCME) July 7, 2021Alliance for Retired Americans:
We need to do better for the Americans on Social Security. We can start by making sure the benefits are livable! https://t.co/5iNlPMcvoI
— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) July 8, 2021Amalgamated Transit Union:
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) July 8, 2021American Federation of Musicians:
Mark your calendars because from now on, this day is officially declared “Deacon John Moore Day” by the city of New Orleans. Singer, actor, blues guitarist, bandleader & President @neworleansafm Deacon John Moore feeling the love as people sing Happy Birthday to him for his 80th! pic.twitter.com/qVQxIUVEc4
— AFM (@The_AFM) June 24, 2021American Federation of Teachers:
"Distorting history and threatening educators for teaching the truth is what is truly radical and wrong.” - @rweingarten #TEACH21 https://t.co/uRlP7fNjka
— AFT (@AFTunion) July 8, 2021American Postal Workers Union:
Pres. Dimondstein: “We honor the legacy of our brave strikers who continue to inspire us and of our union’s founders who worked together to form one powerful union. Their courage and action changed lives for generations of postal workers to come."https://t.co/TFhebHsAFj
— APWU National (@APWUnational) July 1, 2021Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance:
We’re 3 weeks out from the #GoldFuturesChallenge due date! Got an idea on how AAPI communities can be SEEN, HEARD, EMPOWERED, and UNITED? Don’t miss out on this opportunity to get critical resources. Applications are due July 31st https://t.co/EUtAyUSQXy pic.twitter.com/XtxHUBNOF7
— Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance, AFL-CIO (@APALAnational) July 7, 2021Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:
Proud to stand with @APFAunity and the striking @MassNurses from St. Vincent's Hospital in Dallas today to demand safe staffing and patient care. #1u #WhenWeFightWeWin #rnstrike pic.twitter.com/DgC9tcdipM
— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) July 7, 2021Boilermakers:
Congratulations to our new #Boilermaker brothers and sisters! #JoinIBB #BoilermakersUnion https://t.co/JqMtUIavR5
— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) July 8, 2021Bricklayers:
The more apprentice graduates entering our trades, the brighter our Union’s future. https://t.co/OHSxpvXANr
— Bricklayers Union (@IUBAC) July 1, 2021Coalition of Black Trade Unionists:
Turning 50 ain't no joke.
For #CBTU, it's a milestone to celebrate and reflect on. Join our ViRTUAL convention, Aug. 25 - 29. Don't miss #CBTU President Emeritus #BillLucy sharing his unique perspective on this historic achievement as the ONLY living CBTU founder. #1u @AFSCME pic.twitter.com/lwySO51vQk
Coalition of Labor Union Women:
Human rights activists and organizations around the world know that Congress can advance global health, empower marginalized communities and promote equity & human rights by passing the #GlobalHERAct. We urge Congress to #EndGagNow! pic.twitter.com/orUrdYAFlM
— CLUW National (@CLUWNational) June 22, 2021Communications Workers of America:
Story from @margarethmcgill on why we need to make sure broadband funding in the infrastructure bill has provisions that make sure the job is done right - with union workers. https://t.co/6XDuwZQoGF #1u
— CWA (@CWAUnion) July 8, 2021Department for Professional Employees:
Congrats to the @Defenders staff on joining together in union with @OPEIU to form @defenders_staff! #1u https://t.co/fqygMMwLId
— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) July 8, 2021Electrical Workers:
"For almost 20 years, members of #IBEW St. Louis Local 1 have volunteered their time and skills to repair the homes of their low-income neighbors, and while the coronavirus put a pause on their efforts last year, they were out in full force this spring." https://t.co/G18W5CoHkr
— IBEW (@IBEW) July 8, 2021Fire Fighters:
‘Huge emotional toll’: Utah #firefighters head to Florida to support collapsed building searchers https://t.co/xPuBk0tqwj
— IAFF (@IAFFNewsDesk) July 8, 2021Heat and Frost Insulators:
As a mechanical insulator, your work will range from multi-million-dollar projects to regular maintenance. With training from an apprenticeship program, you will have the skills necessary to take on any project. Learn more here: https://t.co/DxgG8GRq9S
— Insulators Union ? (@InsulatorsUnion) July 8, 2021International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers:
IFPTE Marks This Canada Day By Joining Call to Redress the Legacy of Injustice to Indigenous Peoples https://t.co/Y9hERi4n6F
— IFPTE (@IFPTE) July 2, 2021International Labor Communications Association:
Please join us for a tutorial on the ILCA Labor Media Awards contest, full of #protips to enter successfully. https://t.co/CLxyaGIwst
— Labor Communications (@ILCAonline) July 1, 2021Ironworkers:
Mishelle Wallace, a 12-year member of Iron Workers Local 392, has been recognized with a North America’s Building Trades Unions (NABTU) Tradeswoman Hero Award.https://t.co/Fr3gO3DXpC
— Ironworkers. (@TheIronworkers) June 25, 2021Jobs With Justice:
Why are Uber + Lyft struggling to find drivers? Easy -- bc driving for them sucks.
Our own research in SF found that ~20% of drivers earn NOTHING after expenses. And others have to drive well-over 40 hrs/wk just to get close to min wage. That SUCKS!https://t.co/dNd9RVtOC0
Laborers:
#LIUNA in the news: Union officials voice concerns of not getting turnaround jobs at Lima refinery to county commissioners https://t.co/VebKjzb3dC via @LimaYNN
— LIUNA (@LIUNA) July 2, 2021Machinists:
???Unions help lower your risk of living in poverty! That's according to the @ConversationUS. #1u https://t.co/PXH8bU5UXz
— Machinists Union ✈️?? (@MachinistsUnion) July 8, 2021Metal Trades Department:
The #PROact will help provide workers with the protection and safety to organize without them having to fear employer intimidation and interference. Tell your Senator to say "YES" today!https://t.co/fs3y2icY2l
— Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) July 8, 2021Mine Workers:
“If Warrior Met is waiting for our members to quit and run back to work, then the company needs to quit waiting,” UMWA International President Cecil E. Roberts said. “It’s not going to happen. I know we are going to win this strike..." https://t.co/UucAyhgA1Q
— United Mine Workers (@MineWorkers) July 1, 2021Musical Artists:
ICYMI: AGMA’s June Newsletter was sent out around 6:00 p.m. ET yesterday! As a reminder, members can access every newsletter by visiting the AGMA Newsletter Archive on the website (MyAGMA login required). pic.twitter.com/YfOu4eTC08
— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) July 1, 2021National Air Traffic Controllers Association:
Longtime Boots On The Ground (BOTG) members Bob and Valerie Butterworth recently announced the 2020 election cycle would be their last. https://t.co/NLb2TfxnOv pic.twitter.com/gnblX2AIk9
— NATCA (@NATCA) July 8, 2021National Association of Letter Carriers:
Banners, balloons and homemade signs lined Edward Smith’s route on his last day on the job. After 36 years of service and 20 years on the same route, Edward, a member of Atlanta, GA Branch 73, is joining the “last punch bunch”! Congratulations, Edward! ? https://t.co/tOSx6dJXXX
— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) July 8, 2021National Day Laborer Organizing Network:
From NYC, we celebrate and defend the humanity of undocumented working people in this country. And it’s time our state and national leaders do the same. #NYCDayLaborers #HometownHeroesNYC#EssentialWorkers #YNosotrosQue #DALE #EssentialAndExcluded pic.twitter.com/agA0po2HTf
— NDLON (@NDLON) July 7, 2021National Domestic Workers Alliance:
It’s a beautiful day for us to fight for working people—for immigrants.
Join us in telling Congress we need an equitable national recovery plan that includes a pathway to citizenship for essential workers. #WeCantWait????????
https://t.co/PYlFIbzgqS pic.twitter.com/veW4vmwa90
National Federation of Federal Employees:
The Executive Order calls for an ambitious, government-wide initiative that will take a systematic approach to embed DEIA (diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility) in Federal hiring and employment practices. https://t.co/7Ic5X8zeMT
— NFFE (@NFFE_Union) July 7, 2021National Nurses United:
✅ #GetVaccinated
✅ #WearAMask
✅ Help save lives! pic.twitter.com/xuvIW4FSto
NFL Players Association:
Don't forget: The Summer Series is back tomorrow night on @clubhouse & it's all about investing! @DevonKennard + @BangTimeBurks share what's worked for them when it comes to their investing ventures.
Active guys–DM us for the invite ✉️ pic.twitter.com/h68XeAVUSH
North America's Building Trades Unions:
Join us on July 22 for our third and final virtual summit of the season!
This event will feature several esteemed speakers, as they highlight best practices to provide support for sustainable career pathways & the avoidance of recidivism.
Register today: https://t.co/LruvNSYlxA pic.twitter.com/1yrfnzIFBY
Office and Professional Employees:
We were deeply shocked to see @JClarkprez's immediate denial of voluntary recognition—a standard procedure that's backed by the Nat'l Labor Relations Board. We join @DefendersStaff in urging leadership to proceed in good faith, as is the prevailing standard in the enviro sector. https://t.co/rofMcYxNPg
— OPEIU Local 2 (@OPEIULocal2) July 8, 2021Painters and Allied Trades:
All across our nation, our union provides top notch education and training to learn our skilled trades that positively transform lives.
We're determined to give the opportunities our union can provide to as many people as possible. pic.twitter.com/MdizU2gx8z
Plasterers and Cement Masons:
“For working people, getting vaccinated against COVID-19 is a matter of life and death. Thanks to the work of the Biden administration, vaccinations are available for free throughout the USA to anyone ages 12 and older.” https://t.co/yEOeQlLg2i
— OPCMIA International (@opcmiaintl) July 7, 2021Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:
We stand in solidarity with our union family in South Africa! We call on Massmart to #StopMassCuts and start negotiating NOW with SACCAWU! #1u pic.twitter.com/6iBD15VOGf
— RWDSU (@RWDSU) July 8, 2021Roofers and Waterproofers:
To continue raising awareness of construction hazards, CPWR has launched the Construction Fatality Map Dashboard, which allows users to search construction fatalities by year, event type (such as falls), state, and date. https://t.co/3AlTciH3eH #roofersafety365
— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) July 8, 2021SAG-AFTRA:
We are here to support SAG-AFTRA members navigating an experience of sexual harassment in the entertainment and media industry. Your story matters. You are not alone.
Go to https://t.co/0i4cJQfhjF for more information. pic.twitter.com/gAMjXcFCSV
Seafarers:
Seafarers’ unions welcome Ever Given release https://t.co/eZksPHxCGy #1u #maritime
— Seafarers Union (@SeafarersUnion) July 8, 2021Solidarity Center:
#SDG8 is key to:
⭕Climate-friendly, good jobs
⭕Rights for ALL workers
⭕Equality of income, gender, race for ALL workers
⭕Social protections like paid sick leave
Workers worldwide need a #NewSocialContract!#hlpf @TUDCN_rscd @ituc @UN_SDG https://t.co/39G5jzXuI3
The NewsGuild-CWA:
Support this worthy effort! Make a contribution to help relaunch The Appeal as a worker-led news outlet. https://t.co/ZKf7yvL8Ki https://t.co/R6fnzRb7ko
— NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) July 1, 2021Theatrical Stage Employees:
Congratulations to IATSE @Local_706 members, Carla Joi Farmer, Eryn Krueger Mekash, Kimberley Spiteri, Scott Wheeler and Adrien Morot who are all new members of the Academy! #IATSEProudhttps://t.co/dpXYV4xNKg
— IATSE // #PROAct (@IATSE) July 8, 2021Transport Workers Union:
The TWU is out in front of this and working to ensure that strong worker protections are built into the implementation of new transportation technology. https://t.co/SXLSWbdoHt
— TWU (@transportworker) July 6, 2021Transportation Trades Department:
Momentum is growing for once-in-a-generation investments in #nfrastructure that will transform our country, create millions of good jobs & secure America’s economic vitality. The #INVESTAct just brought us one step closer to these goals.https://t.co/2exZDnZEVq
— Transp. Trades Dept. (@TTDAFLCIO) July 1, 2021UAW:
Whether you're at the worksite or enjoying the great outdoors, the summer heat can be dangerous. Check out these tips from @Uaw249 to stay safe this summer: https://t.co/zdjXt2jgsI
— UAW (@UAW) July 8, 2021Union Veterans Council:
What @SecMartyWalsh said ⬇️⬇️ https://t.co/WFloSdfbeu
— Union Veterans Council (@unionveterans) July 6, 2021UNITE HERE:
? This is the biggest thing happening in the hotel industry. This plan to end daily housekeeping would:
? Permanently slash the U.S. housekeeping workforce by up to 39%
❌ Cut up to 180,917 housekeeper jobs
? Cost 4.8 BILLION in annual lost wageshttps://t.co/c4nGqCRFZ9
United Food and Commercial Workers:
#UFCWVictory ✊?✊?✊?✊?
Over 200 workers employed at Flying Food Group in Honolulu, Kailua-Kona and Lihue, Hawaii, recently joined #UFCWLocal480 family for the better wages and benefits that come with a union contract.#1u #UnionStronghttps://t.co/pKJPBToLg7
United Steelworkers:
#InfrastructureIsCalling and working people are ready to answer by rebuilding our roads, bridges, transit, rail, airport and water infrastructure. @TransportDems' #INVESTAct, a key piece of the American Jobs Plan, will create millions of good-paying jobs to do just that. pic.twitter.com/EHx9BfodGM
— United Steelworkers (@steelworkers) July 8, 2021Utility Workers:
How does knowing our union history help build worker power? Check out what our members have to say!https://t.co/fxrmuZFnSk pic.twitter.com/mMd2GsmPyw
— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) July 8, 2021Writers Guild of America, East:
"The Guild is proud to be a sponsor of the Giant Leap Accelerator to help elevate AAPI voices in television and film."https://t.co/LIq96GSp0I
— Writers Guild of America, East / #PROAct (@WGAEast) July 8, 2021 Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 07/08/2021 - 11:13Service + Solidarity Spotlight: IBB Hosts Virtual Conferences, Bringing Together Local Leadership
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 Boilermakers (IBB) enjoyed a semblance of normality in May through the return of two of the union’s events: the Industrial Sector Operations and Construction Sector Operations conferences. Lodge leaders from each sector met in one-day virtual formats for a much-needed touch point after more than a year of lost connections. Even delivered virtually, the message was clear during both conferences: Boilermakers remained strong and resilient in a year of unprecedented upheaval.
“We’ve had a difficult year,” acknowledged IBB International President Newton B. Jones in the conference openings. “We’ve weathered the storm financially very well. The pension is holding steady. It’s better news than we thought we’d be having…. Coming out of this pandemic, the work will return in force.”
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 07/08/2021 - 10:39Tags: COVID-19, Community Service
Build a Better Future: 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.
Doris Crouse-Mays: The PRO Act Is How We Build a Better Future for Virginia’s Working Families: "Unfortunately, our broken labor laws allow employers to get away with violating the National Labor Relations Act with little to no consequence. As we navigate our new normal and continue to mitigate the risks all around us, there has never been a more important time to ensure workers can speak up for themselves with a voice on the job. Enter the PRO Act. This monumental legislation will empower Virginia’s workers, including those right here in Loudoun County, to exercise our freedom to organize and bargain. Business interests claim this bill will mean economic disaster, but this could not be further from the truth. Union members are more likely to have higher wages (11.2% more than what nonunion workers make), better access to employer-paid healthcare (94% compared to 68%), retirement benefits through private employers (82% to 48%) and so much more."
AFL-CIO Urges Union Members to Get Vaccinated and Then Brag About It: "The AFL-CIO is urging union members to get vaccinated for COVID-19 and show their health-conscious union pride with a sticker announcing their vaccination status. 'COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective,' the AFL-CIO said in a statement. 'Clinical trials show that the vaccines are safe and help protect people from COVID-19. If we all get vaccinated and continue wearing masks and social distancing, we can slow the spread. Together, we can end this pandemic. Working people also need strong health and safety protections in the workplace to prevent exposure to COVID-19. The workplace is a high-risk setting because we’re breathing the same air for long periods of time. That’s why vaccines for workers are even more important.'"
Black Workers Stopped Making Progress on Pay. Is It Racism?: "William Spriggs, a professor at Howard University, wrote an open letter last year to his fellow economists. Reacting to the police killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis, he began the letter with a question: 'Is now a teachable moment for economists?' Slamming what he saw as attempts to deny racial discrimination, Dr. Spriggs argued that economists should stop looking for a reason other than racism—some 'omitted variable'—to account for why African Americans are falling further behind in the economy."
OSHA Virus Rule Intended to Cover All Workers, Draft Shows: "'Current guidelines are inadequate, and are not enforceable, resulting in millions of workers left unprotected on the job,' AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka said in a statement to Bloomberg Law. 'An enforceable workplace safety standard that protects all workers is key to beating this pandemic.'"
Outnumbered on the Job Site, Tradeswomen Find Camaraderie, Support via New ‘Lean In Circles’: "'Unions are all about collective voice, and this innovative program offers the perfect opportunity to enhance that solidarity,' AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Liz Shuler said. 'Connecting with other women in similar situations and sharing strategies through networks is invaluable.'"
Striking an Infrastructure Deal Without Investing in Child and Elder Care Is a Huge Mistake: "On Thursday, President Joe Biden announced that he had agreed to a compromise deal with Republicans on infrastructure. While many of its details remain unknown, we do know it includes many critical investments for Americans: roads and bridges, public transit, broadband, water and power systems and more. But so far the deal leaves out Biden's proposal to spend $400 million to bolster caregiving for aging and disabled Americans. Biden's original infrastructure plan, which contained provisions to build and update energy-efficient child care centers, already fell short on raising the wages and benefits of child care workers. Now, the bipartisan deal seems to have limited funding for child care facilities even more with only a provision that eliminates lead water pipes."
Senators, Nurses Need You to Support the PRO Act: "Although we have put our lives on the line for the past 15 months to care for thousands of Arizonans hospitalized with COVID-19, nurses have continuously been denied the necessary personal protective equipment, safe staffing and other infection control measures needed to properly care for our patients. Throughout the pandemic, while governments and employers turned their backs on us, we have fought together against hospital managers to win workplace protections without fear of retribution. This will not only help keep all nurses safe, it will help keep patients safe. That’s why it is critical that Sens. Mark Kelly and Kyrsten Sinema support legislation that would make it easier for nurses and other workers to join a union. They need to demonstrate their support for working families by co-sponsoring the PRO Act."
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 07/07/2021 - 09:33Protect Working People: 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:
Labor Live at 12:05 -With Special Guest Jake Metcalfe https://t.co/u6V9PUo4RY
— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) July 1, 2021Arizona AFL-CIO:
Thank you @hernandezforaz @P2Hannley @NavarreteAZ @RepRichLD29 and @PimaRecorder for joining our Legislative Committee meeting this morning! https://t.co/7BE7hEaohe
— Arizona AFL-CIO // #PassThePROAct (@ArizonaAFLCIO) July 2, 2021Arkansas AFL-CIO:
Congratulations! Welcome to the Labor Movement! #1u #AFLCIO #USW #ARLabor #ARUnions #starbucks #organizethesouth https://t.co/47nfkUDD9G
— Arkansas AFL-CIO (@ArkansasAFLCIO) June 30, 2021California Labor Federation:
Strong workplace health & safety regulations are among the most important tools we have to keep the COVID pandemic under control & to fight the next pandemic. We can't protect our communities if we don't protect workers https://t.co/onrkGLiZjd
— California Labor Federation (@CaliforniaLabor) July 5, 2021Connecticut AFL-CIO:
Great work by members of @CWA1298 who helped pass legislation to protect call center workers in CT! @CWAUnion https://t.co/xyvDuyv5QJ
— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) July 1, 2021Florida AFL-CIO:
The PRO Act is a monumental oppurtunity to improve workers' rights in the U.S.
Click here to read Florida AFL-CIO President Mike Williams' guest column in today's Orlando Sentinel about the importance of passing the PRO Act. https://t.co/feb57OntGw
Indiana State AFL-CIO:
The number of Black people either working or looking for work increased in June, a positive development for a group hit hard by pandemic job losses.
But the unemployment rate also ticked up. https://t.co/LazUodJv84
Iowa Federation of Labor:
Iowans celebrated voting in record numbers in 2020, but @IAGovernor took it as an opportunity to tear us down, signing voter suppression legislation for political gain.
Iowans are tired of playing second fiddle to #CorporateKim & her cronies. It's time we put #PeopleOverPolitics
Maine AFL-CIO:
The passage of this bill is a testament to workers who organized, called & emailed their legislators & told their powerful stories about their struggles with the UI system. This is a huge win for working people. #mepolitics https://t.co/5gvceecf4M
— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) June 15, 2021Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
Tenet Healthcare received $850 million in federal stimulus, as nurses in Worcester remain on strike, and officials want to know where that money went https://t.co/bGOXyd2F2q
— Massachusetts AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@massaflcio) July 3, 2021Michigan AFL-CIO:
NEW: Study Shows Partnership Between Michigan's Skilled Craft Unions And The Biopharmaceutical Industry Resulted In More Than $1.1 Billion In Investment Over Six Years https://t.co/rWQTJI950r
— Michigan AFL-CIO ? (@MIAFLCIO) July 1, 2021Minnesota AFL-CIO:
Sign Now: Stop Elon Musk’s Union Busting with the American Jobs Plan! https://t.co/ID6BRx4WQJ #11u pic.twitter.com/j2TYTfs5Nd
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) July 5, 2021Missouri AFL-CIO:
? @IUOE148 is hosting a Bass Tourney benefiting the Ronald McDonald House at the Lake of the Ozarks. Support a great cause! Learn more here: https://t.co/Cuv1MMosDX pic.twitter.com/ahLNa4nx4r
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) July 5, 2021Montana AFL-CIO:
Protect our freedom at work. Pass the PRO Act. #PROAct #UnionStrong https://t.co/9WY89dwKEh
— Montana AFL-CIO (@MTaflcio) July 6, 2021Nevada State AFL-CIO:
Between 1992 and 2017, at least 815 workers in the U.S. were killed and more than 70,000 were injured from heat stress injuries.
Rising temperatures are a #workersrights issue, plain and simple.https://t.co/99Eo9eYxFg
New Hampshire AFL-CIO:
It's a hot one today—not just in the northwest, but here in New Hampshire too.
Make sure to recognize the signs of heat stroke versus heat exhaustion, and STAY HYDRATED: pic.twitter.com/GRHO2qIlmK
New Jersey State AFL-CIO:
— New Jersey AFL-CIO (@NJAFLCIO) July 2, 2021New York State AFL-CIO:
#UnionStrong Ep 69: 2021 Legislative Wrap Up - On the latest episode of the Union Strong podcast, we look back at what was an incredibly successful year for labor. New York State AFL-CIO President Mario Cilento is our special guest. https://t.co/8kFPybzOru
— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) June 30, 2021North Carolina State AFL-CIO:
Register Now for Part 2 of our Labor Law Part training (7/22), FREE for members of NC AFL-CIO affiliates. #1u https://t.co/8qczWqtOKt
— NC State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct! (@NCStateAFLCIO) July 1, 2021Ohio AFL-CIO:
Letters: For reader, her family, #union jobs were path to self-reliance. @AFLCIO jobs help stabilize families, provide self-worth to workers.
We couldn’t have said it better! https://t.co/2aS2bUneoh
Oklahoma State AFL-CIO:
Congrats to Sister Tara Allen, an OPEIU #381 member who works for UAW #952. She has received the 2021 Howard Coughlin Scholarship.
The Office and Professional Employees International Union was chartered in '45 and has more than 104,000 members.
OPEIU #381 was chartered in '59!
Oregon AFL-CIO:
Tip: if someone tries to tell you the #ARPA is causing an economy-wide labor shortage they’re wrong, and here’s your proof. #1u https://t.co/yjHGsSN7vj
— Oregon AFL-CIO / PASS THE PRO ACT (@OregonAFLCIO) July 3, 2021Rhode Island AFL-CIO:
The Clean Economy Revolution Will Be Unionized - Center for American Progress https://t.co/qPcVugUXsF #1u #ClimateCrisis
— Rhode Island AFL-CIO (@riaflcio) July 6, 2021Tennessee AFL-CIO Labor Council:
After today, Tennessee workers will no longer be able to receive federal unemployment benefits as a result of @GovBillLee's disregard and disrespect for working families. Below is our statement that we sent out on Friday ahead of this cold, callous decision taking effect #1u pic.twitter.com/TqbL9gk4ku
— Tennessee AFL-CIO (@tnaflcio) July 3, 2021Texas AFL-CIO:
Welcome to the family! @IBEWLocal520 event celebrates new members in large scale swearing-in parking lot ceremony. #1u #UnionStrong #Solidarity https://t.co/RDZAYRCrhv
— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) July 2, 2021Virginia AFL-CIO:
?Check out President Doris Crouse- Mays’ op-Ed on the PRO Act. Senator @MarkWarner , it’s time to sign on! #PassThePROActhttps://t.co/jqmMeGWQTC
— Virginia AFL-CIO (@Virginia_AFLCIO) June 29, 2021Washington State Labor Council:
Solidarity with our @Teamsters siblings on strike. Over 7 months of negotiations and BCS management is refusing to bargain in good faith, going so far as to call healthcare a luxury. If able, turn out for BCS workers at their picket in Bellingham, WA. #1u #UnionStrong #Teamsters https://t.co/Eu0QfLpaJZ
— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) July 2, 2021Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
Warner should back PRO Act protections for workers #PassthePROAct https://t.co/U1Xhoka9gh
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) July 3, 2021 Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 07/06/2021 - 11:33Service + Solidarity Spotlight: UWUA Urges Large-Scale Investment in Transmission 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.
The Utility Workers (UWUA) are calling for passage of the CLEAN Future Act (H.R. 1512). UWUA Government Affairs Director Lee Anderson testified before the House Committee on Energy and Commerce Energy subcommittee in support of the legislation, which would invest heavily in electricity transmission infrastructure. “Transmission systems keep the lights on, and keep the economy functioning,” Anderson explained. “Nothing is more fundamental to the health and growth of the nation than investing in these systems, as well as the workforces and communities that rely on them for jobs, revenue and security.” The CLEAN Future Act also sets ambitious targets for the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in the United States.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 07/06/2021 - 09:33Tags: COVID-19, Community Service
Economy Gains 850,000 Jobs in June; Unemployment Stable at 5.9%
The U.S. economy gained 850,000 jobs in June, and the unemployment rate was barely changed at 5.9%, according to figures released Friday morning by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
In response to the June job numbers, AFL-CIO Chief Economist William Spriggs tweeted:
Though some have reports of teenagers re-gaining their foothold in low-wage jobs as in the 1970s, @BLS_gov reports teenagers showed a drop in labor force participation and in employment, and their unemployment rate edged up from 9.6 to 9.9% in June. @AFLCIO #JobsDay
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) July 2, 2021You know the labor market isn't tight when adult Black male (66.7 to 67.7) and female (60.6-60.9) labor force participation increased as did the share with jobs, but lots more didn't find jobs, so their unemployment rates went up (9.8-10.0 and 8.2-8.5)@AFLCIO #JobsReport #JobsDay
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) July 2, 2021Of the 850,000 added to payroll in June, 405,000 were women (146,000 in leisure & hospitality) Since last June, women are an increasing share of the workforce in construction and in transportation & warehousing. Those shifts are part of the "scarcity" story some report. @AFLCIO
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) July 2, 2021Because of high unemployment rates, though less likely to get UI if unemployed, Black workers are still a higher share of UI recipients than whites, but Black Labor Force Participation is rebounding much faster than for whites. So, unlikely UI is holding back workers. @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/vSJcAqpqPo
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) July 2, 2021Payroll gains (going to the right in the chart) were reported by almost all industries, with the lower wage industries (going down in the chart). Leisure & hospitality showing continued gains up 343,000 despite claims of "shortages." @AFLCIO #JobsDay #JobsReport pic.twitter.com/wdzLx9vaTz
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) July 2, 2021The share of workers unemployed 27 weeks or more is stuck. Last time we had this share of long-term unemployed it took almost 6 years to get to a normal level. This is the challenge. On Labor Day, we would still have 3 million, a problem if we only have regular state UI. @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/l8cPRytzuA
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) July 2, 2021The household survey: employment remained steady because unlike April's jump in those employed losing jobs, in June those holding on to jobs went up, while the flows into employment from unemployment and not in the labor force fell; consistent with falling new UI claims. @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/x0DSKQF3JO
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) July 2, 2021The household survey showed the mixed message of this report. The overall unemployment rate was steady, but increased for each age group among prime age workers. Household aren't finding it easy to find jobs. The gain appears more from fewer losing jobs. @AFLCIO #JobsReport pic.twitter.com/oB634ehAJZ
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) July 2, 2021Consistent with the jobs flow data, fewer workers lost jobs in June than May, with the decline being in permanent job loss. Again, also consistent with falling new UI claims data. This is all good news as it lays a foundation for a strong recovery. @AFLCIO #JobsReport #JobsDay pic.twitter.com/op9VwPMlFy
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) July 2, 2021Last month’s biggest job gains were in leisure and hospitality (+343,000), education (+269,000), professional and business services (+72,000), retail trade (+67,000), other services industry (+56,000), social assistance (+32,000), wholesale trade (+21,000), manufacturing (+15,000), transportation and warehousing (+11,000) and mining (+10,000). Employment declined slightly for construction (-7,000). In June, employment showed little change in other major industries, including information, financial activities and health care.
Among the major worker groups, the unemployment rates for teenagers (9.9%), Black Americans (9.2%), Hispanics (7.4%), adult men (5.9%), Asian Americans (5.8%), adult women (5.5%) and White Americans (5.2%) showed little or no change in June.
The number of long-term unemployed workers (those jobless for 27 weeks or more) increased in June and accounted for 42.1% of the total unemployed.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 07/02/2021 - 15:32Service + Solidarity Spotlight: Insulators Help Raise the Bar for Workers in Baltimore
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.
Nearly five years ago, the Baltimore-D.C. Metro Building Trades Council established the Raising the Baltimore Apprenticeship Readiness (BAR) Program to serve Baltimore residents. Heat and Frost Insulators (HFIU) Local 24 and the international union played a role in the creation and execution of the Raising the BAR program. The program includes 120 hours of training taught over three weeks and provides an investment in the next generation of union construction workers, while offering a ladder of opportunity into the middle class for local workers and their families through a pre-apprenticeship program. “It is important to be part of giving minority and low-income students a chance,” said Local 24 Business Manager and Training Coordinator Brian Cavey. “As a trade, as a union and as an industry, we have to be dedicated to growing.”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 07/02/2021 - 09:31Tags: COVID-19, Community Service
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: Indiana Postcard Campaign for the PRO Act in Full Swing
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.
Last week, the Southern Indiana Area Labor Federation set up a PRO Act table at a four-county Indiana Democratic Party town hall event about the American Rescue Plan. ALF team members, including President Eric Wagemann (SMART), were able to talk with union members and party activists about the importance of passing the PRO Act; they collected more than 100 signed postcards to drop into the mail to U.S. Sens. Todd Young and Mike Braun. Also this week, members of IBEW locals 481 and 725 on a jobsite in Bloomington took time during their breaks to write postcards to the senators.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 07/01/2021 - 08:58Tags: COVID-19, Community Service
Equal Justice for All: 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:
#PassThePROAct #APRIStrong pic.twitter.com/sSTci84yXC
— APRI National (DC) (@APRI_National) June 17, 2021Actors' Equity:
Did you receive the most recent edition of Equity Weekly? If not, here is what you missed! https://t.co/HRW3WaMSYG pic.twitter.com/kleX4EzEzy
— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) July 1, 2021AFGE:
AFGE Local 4070 says USP Thomson is so understaffed they are pulling nurses, counselors, and case managers to work as correctional officers. https://t.co/fsMn7eiyM8
— AFGE (@AFGENational) June 30, 2021AFSCME:
Throughout her impressive legal career both advocating for workers’ rights and serving on the Oregon Employment Relations Board, Jennifer Sung has demonstrated that she will ensure everyone, not just the wealthy and privileged, receives equal justice. https://t.co/JMyqnwi18g
— AFSCME (@AFSCME) June 30, 2021Alliance for Retired Americans:
We agree. Patients deserve life-saving treatments at prices they can afford. Congress needs to do more to ensure Americans can pay their medical bills. https://t.co/Wu3TrE6GNT
— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) June 30, 2021Amalgamated Transit Union:
This Canada Day, we stand in solidarity with our sisters and brothers in calling for a day of reflection and remembrance for Indigenous communities who have been victims of historical tragedies that include violence and genocide. Read more from ATU Canada: https://t.co/BCE0E3IEw9 pic.twitter.com/L1gcIaUppw
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) July 1, 2021American Federation of Musicians:
Mark your calendars because from now on, this day is officially declared “Deacon John Moore Day” by the city of New Orleans. Singer, actor, blues guitarist, bandleader & President @neworleansafm Deacon John Moore feeling the love as people sing Happy Birthday to him for his 80th! pic.twitter.com/qVQxIUVEc4
— AFM (@The_AFM) June 24, 2021American Federation of Teachers:
Teachers are the professionals in the classroom, and the people who use their expertise and their collective power for good. Teachers need to be trusted, not bullied into submission. pic.twitter.com/DuBhhy42Ed
— AFT (@AFTunion) July 1, 2021American Postal Workers Union:
Happy Birthday to us! ?✊?
The American Postal Workers Union was founded in a merger of 5 unions, July 1 1971. It came in the wake of the 1970 Great Postal Strike & Postal Reorganization Act which granted our demand for the right to collectively bargain.https://t.co/lGR80fCXR6
Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance:
COVID vaccine information for refugee communities in #Khmer language. Do you know folks who have questions about the vaccine, or how to protect their health after receiving it? Show them this video! https://t.co/ksVz8YYSWh #WeCanDoThis
— Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance, AFL-CIO (@APALAnational) June 30, 2021Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:
Thank you, National Air Carrier Association! We agree—the FAA’s “Zero Tolerance” policy for unruly passengers who refuse to follow aircrew directions or become violent should be made permanent. https://t.co/f8Vld1uyW8
— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) July 1, 2021Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers:
BCTGM Stands with General Mills workers in Rooty Hill, NSW (Australia), who have been on strike since June 4th.
— BCTGM International (@BCTGM) June 23, 2021Boilermakers:
Thank you to @ABFedLabour and all who joined in the day of action for the 1 year unhappy anniversary of #Boilermakers L-146 calling on CESSCO & Canerector Inc. to end the lockout in Edmonton. ❤️ Also a huge thank you to those who showed solidarity by participating virtually ✊ pic.twitter.com/wiSh5zk4Qt
— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) June 30, 2021Bricklayers:
Congrats to our BAC brothers, sisters, and sibling who placed and participated in this year’s Skills USA Competition at #WOC2021 in Vegas! @WorldofConcrete pic.twitter.com/SdmlDwIbcU
— Bricklayers Union (@IUBAC) June 25, 2021Coalition of Black Trade Unionists:
Turning 50 ain't no joke.
For #CBTU, it's a milestone to celebrate and reflect on. Join our ViRTUAL convention, Aug. 25 - 29. Don't miss #CBTU President Emeritus #BillLucy sharing his unique perspective on this historic achievement as the ONLY living CBTU founder. #1u @AFSCME pic.twitter.com/lwySO51vQk
Coalition of Labor Union Women:
Human rights activists and organizations around the world know that Congress can advance global health, empower marginalized communities and promote equity & human rights by passing the #GlobalHERAct. We urge Congress to #EndGagNow! pic.twitter.com/orUrdYAFlM
— CLUW National (@CLUWNational) June 22, 2021Communications Workers of America:
The workers are the union. https://t.co/G7lwlQmYQU
— CWA (@CWAUnion) July 1, 2021Department for Professional Employees:
We are so excited for the @nhpr professionals who have joined together in union with @sagaftra to form @nhprcollective! #1u https://t.co/9kiK5M2xpL
— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) June 30, 2021Electrical Workers:
The #InvestAct will ensure the safe build-out of Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure through the use of Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Training Program (EVITP) credential electricians.
— IBEW (@IBEW) July 1, 2021Fire Fighters:
Submit your entry to the #IAFF Media Awards Contest by Monday, July 12 https://t.co/1IYgrQRKOe pic.twitter.com/VMVHqPZ17q
— IAFF (@IAFFNewsDesk) July 1, 2021Heat and Frost Insulators:
Is being an insulator a job for you? If you want to receive good pay, quality health insurance and an amazing work environment, the team at Insulators Union is the job for you. We are looking to recruit new members today! https://t.co/Afu2zunbzl
— Insulators Union ? (@InsulatorsUnion) July 1, 2021International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers:
Congrats to @CLINIC_workers !! WELCOME TO YOUR UNION! https://t.co/xbUYvuIcYP
— IFPTE (@IFPTE) July 1, 2021International Labor Communications Association:
The 2021 ILCA Labor Media Awards contest is open for entries! https://t.co/YE5gXXzanS pic.twitter.com/bhYzZPntwn
— Labor Communications (@ILCAonline) June 14, 2021Ironworkers:
The Ontario government on Monday announced a $435,000 investment to help Local 759 buy three new pieces of equipment for training, testing and certifying apprentices and journeypersons.https://t.co/XhuLu9PcnI
— Ironworkers. (@TheIronworkers) June 23, 2021Jobs With Justice:
We need farmworkers. They are essential. Asking them to endure every, single crisis without proper pay or benefits is not only unsustainable -- it's immoral af.
Farmworkers are #AlwaysEssential and it's well past time we started treating them like it.https://t.co/XfUzKcR7TH
Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:
LCLAA stands in support of the nurses’ ongoing strike, which will not stop until they reach an equitable and fair agreement that ensures safe working conditions and safe patient care. Click on the link to support https://t.co/HefAtxXXU2 #solidaritywithstvnurses @MassNurses pic.twitter.com/hnFjKWMHuK
— LCLAA (@LCLAA) June 25, 2021Laborers:
.@ASCETweets recently gave our nation's overall infrastructure a C- grade. 43% of our roads are in poor condition. Every day, Americans make 178 million trips across deficient bridges. #infrastructureNOW
The need for #infrastructure is clear. LEARN MORE: https://t.co/2dVE0DAkeP pic.twitter.com/U9fMGFPsfK
Machinists:
With the announcement of more than 25,000 airline jobs and a new order of 200 Boeing #737MAX airplanes, our members at @United Airlines and @Boeing have reason to celebrate. #1u pic.twitter.com/HsE1fKqT3z
— Machinists Union ✈️?? (@MachinistsUnion) June 30, 2021Maritime Trades Department:
MTD Executive Sec. Treas. Dan Duncan (far right) shows solidarity with striking Mine Workers outside the Warrior Met Coal training center in Tuscaloosa, AL. The workers have been on strike since April 1, 2021. United Mine Workers of America pic.twitter.com/g2q0awOTAU
— MaritimeTrades (@Maritime_Trades) June 24, 2021Metal Trades Department:
50% of non-LGBT workers reported no openly LGBT coworkers at their job. However, 46% of LGBT workers reported they remained closeted at work due to fear of being harassed or discriminated against while on the job.#PRIDEmonth pic.twitter.com/W7cqriqTef
— Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) June 29, 2021Mine Workers:
“If Warrior Met is waiting for our members to quit and run back to work, then the company needs to quit waiting,” UMWA International President Cecil E. Roberts said. “It’s not going to happen. I know we are going to win this strike..." https://t.co/UucAyhgA1Q
— United Mine Workers (@MineWorkers) July 1, 2021Musical Artists:
AGMA is excited to unveil our New and Prospective Member Page! For first-time or joining members, this page will jumpstart their AGMA experience. For current and even longtime members, the important information compiled here will come in handy as well. https://t.co/hJotgxu6mN pic.twitter.com/iX2FrXFYdR
— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) June 29, 2021National Air Traffic Controllers Association:
Fort Worth Center (ZFW) controllers Chris Clavin and Randy Wilkins worked to find a place for a Cessna pilot to fly to and land safely as he flew in solid IFR conditions. For their assistance, Clavin and Wilkins will receive an Archie League Award. https://t.co/ZKWLZJzOgA pic.twitter.com/4bN4t9CV1X
— NATCA (@NATCA) July 1, 2021National Association of Letter Carriers:
Happy #NationalPostalWorkerDay! Thank you to our members and all postal workers who deliver for America every day! pic.twitter.com/4jIpee3Ddc
— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) July 1, 2021National Day Laborer Organizing Network:
#Breaking!! Immigrant workers and allies from across New Jersey are risking arrest, right now, on the #NewJerseyTurnpike to demand @GovMurphy fully fund a state #ExcludedWorkersFund that covers the real need in #NJ!
Watch Live: https://t.co/08hHJC5kb5 #YNosotrosQue #DaleNJ pic.twitter.com/BsaX9BrSkP
National Domestic Workers Alliance:
When we invest in HCBS, we’re investing in the future of our workforce that will help provide good-paying jobs, stabilize the economy, and allow everyone to succeed. https://t.co/c5aUExhOHC
— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) June 30, 2021National Federation of Federal Employees:
“NFFE and federal #wildland #firefighters across the country are grateful for President Biden’s leadership in addressing the issue of extremely low pay for one of the hardest jobs in public service,” said NFFE National President Randy Erwin.https://t.co/ZrsewSCM1l
— NFFE (@NFFE_Union) June 30, 2021National Nurses United:
? Big news from Asheville! ? #UnionStrong RNs at @HCAhealthcare's Mission Hospital have reached a historic tentative agreement on a first contract with the hospital.
Huge step for nurses, patients, and our entire community! #NurseTwitterhttps://t.co/833J6COVgU
National Taxi Workers Alliance:
Respect and solidarity ? https://t.co/rngmVhmz6z
— NY Taxi Workers (@NYTWA) June 22, 2021NFL Players Association:
This partnership not only allows student athletes to benefit from scaled opportunities while in college, but sets them up for future opportunities when they transition to the professional levels. @joinoneteam @opendorse https://t.co/RRf1jvuB19
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) June 30, 2021North America's Building Trades Unions:
“It gave me an opportunity to go to school and, at the same time, work and earn a decent living."
Watch @NYCBldgTrades’ video highlighting the Apprenticeship Readiness Collective ? https://t.co/lb4e40skSq
Office and Professional Employees:
Corporations like @Amazon disgracefully pay union-busting consultants massive sums of cash each year to avoid dealing with employees as equals.
Why?
Because they know unions make a difference. #1u #UnionBustingIsDISGUSTINGhttps://t.co/ETOCpSBrtl
Painters and Allied Trades:
Our union makes and shapes history every single day.
Please join us in congratulating sister Jordon Knutzen of @IUPATDC3 LU 558 for graduating from her apprenticeship and becoming the 2nd woman Journeyman Glazier ever out of her LU! pic.twitter.com/s562RJWFhg
Plasterers and Cement Masons:
“The economic harm if we don’t act [on infrastructure] is staggering and sobering. … the U.S. economy will be on pace to lose $10 trillion in growth and $2.4 trillion in exports over the next two decades.” Pass the #AmericanJobsPlan now! https://t.co/kDtXeytRpq
— OPCMIA International (@opcmiaintl) June 30, 2021Professional Aviation Safety Specialists:
PASS represented employees at the FAA and DoD can't protect the American flying public without adequate funding for airport & other aviation facilities! Safety in the air starts on the ground! Congress must invest. #InfrastructureIsCalling #aviationsafety #publicservice https://t.co/S9ACsD7hnp
— PASS (@PASSNational) June 23, 2021Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:
Today we celebrate the postal workers who deliver our mail day in and day out, even through a pandemic. Thank you for all you do! #ThankEssentialWorkers #NationalPostalWorkerDay https://t.co/urVD94IAew
— RWDSU (@RWDSU) July 1, 2021Roofers and Waterproofers:
Global warming has led to the need for more insulation. Read about new regulations and innovative solutions. https://t.co/6phI63hwi0
— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) July 1, 2021SAG-AFTRA:
We stand with Turkish performers in asking the country not to withdraw from the Istanbul Convention and apply it in its full capacities. RT#IstanbulConventionSavesLives #İstanbulSözlesmesiYasatir
— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) July 1, 2021Seafarers:
Recapitalizing Strategic Sealift Should Be DoD’s Number One Modernization Priority https://t.co/6voT7jySDo via @CIMSEC
— Seafarers Union (@SeafarersUnion) June 24, 2021Solidarity Center:
New @ituc report finds that in the past year:
? 87% of countries violated the right to strike.
? 79% of countries violated the right to collectively bargain.
? 74% of countries excluded workers from the right to establish & join a trade union.https://t.co/Zvnwyr2ci1
The NewsGuild-CWA:
Support this worthy effort! Make a contribution to help relaunch The Appeal as a worker-led news outlet. https://t.co/ZKf7yvL8Ki https://t.co/R6fnzRb7ko
— NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) July 1, 2021Theatrical Stage Employees:
Who said only humans get to stand with @MetOpera workers?
Join these furry friends on our Interactive Virtual Picket Line here: https://t.co/noOgUlM76k pic.twitter.com/mE4DGYeS8o
Transport Workers Union:
"What they didn't do was add the manpower to accommodate those flights. Not only were there additional flights to the schedule, but the way we operate changed during that summer,” explained @TWU513 President Greg Cosey #EnoughIsEnoughhttps://t.co/whtIrZN1yI
— TWU (@transportworker) July 1, 2021Transportation Trades Department:
The #INVESTAct will provide millions of people with good-paying jobs rebuilding our infrastructure and will lay the groundwork for a full recovery from #COVID19. Congress must act to make it a reality. #BuildBackBetter #InfrastructureIsCalling pic.twitter.com/UjWzobQRWz
— Transp. Trades Dept. (@TTDAFLCIO) June 30, 2021UAW:
With a focus on building, growing, and strengthening membership, the UAW International Executive Board unanimously elected Secretary-Treasurer Ray Curry to serve as UAW President upon the retirement of Rory L. Gamble for the remainder of the current term. https://t.co/3Ofu7Q5Gpm
— UAW (@UAW) June 28, 2021Union Label and Service Trades Department:
Opinion: Warner should back PRO Act protections for workers - The Virginian-Pilot https://t.co/sqaygOyhOu
— Union Label Dept. (@ULSTD_AFLCIO) June 29, 2021Union Veterans Council:
Leaders like @MikieSherrill know first hand how unions change lives, and how the #PROAct will make unions more accessible to all workers. pic.twitter.com/8l2cDpMvZ5
— Union Veterans Council (@unionveterans) June 28, 2021UNITE HERE:
Good morning from DC where 1,500 UNITE HERE hospitality workers are arriving from all across the US to join @BlackVotersMtr this afternoon for a major rally for voting rights. We need to protect our freedom to vote as Republicans are trying to suppress our voice! #FreedomRide2021 pic.twitter.com/5F2J7u0nlj
— UNITE HERE ?✊? (@unitehere) June 26, 2021United Food and Commercial Workers:
Across the country, workers without #PaidLeave have to choose between a paycheck and taking care of family. #Unions help millions of workers get the paid leave they need and Congress can do even more. @POTUS is right. It's time to pass #PaidLeaveForAll pic.twitter.com/04Wyd9C6pZ
— UFCW (@UFCW) June 30, 2021United Steelworkers:
It’s deeply disappointing that @ExxonMobilBTA would take such a drastic step & keep its dedicated workforce off on #ULPLockOut when our only goal is to bargain a #FairContract pic.twitter.com/kQKobWI8JK
— United Steelworkers (@steelworkers) July 1, 2021Utility Workers:
With temps at record highs, it's important to know how to identify/protect yourself as well as your union sisters and brothers from heat illness. Members working in the elements are often at the greatest risk. SHARE with your coworkers & loved ones today - It can save a life! pic.twitter.com/QtE5D8Juro
— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) June 30, 2021Working America:
The United States is still the only wealthy country without nationwide paid family and medical leave. It’s time the US caught up with the rest of the world. #PaidLeaveNow pic.twitter.com/R8Drpkex3y
— Working America | Pass the #PROAct (@WorkingAmerica) June 21, 2021Writers Guild of America, East:
To clarify: we're opposed to NDAs, unless it stands for "Nifty Dog Associates". #1u #unionpets https://t.co/IANjvC0ohZ
— Writers Guild of America, East / #PROAct (@WGAEast) June 25, 2021 Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 06/30/2021 - 16:09Pride Month Profiles: Joe Kekeris
For Pride Month, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various LGBTQ+ Americans who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights. Today's Pride Month profile is Joe Kekeris.
Joe Kekeris is the ultimate utility player. During his 30 years at the AFL-CIO, Kekeris has shown that no challenge is too great and no request is too small. He takes on everything with the same level of resolve and shows everyone his huge heart. It’s a testament to his character.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 06/30/2021 - 09:45Service + Solidarity Spotlight: UNITE HERE Members Join Massive Rally for Voting Rights
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.
UNITE HERE members from across the country converged on Washington, D.C., last weekend for a Black Voters Matter rally demanding the U.S. Senate protect the right to vote. Alarmed by voter suppression laws targeting people of color that are sweeping the nation, UNITE HERE mobilized 1,500 hospitality workers by bus from 21 states to D.C. as part of the Freedom Ride for Voting Rights. Saturday’s demonstration culminated nine days of Freedom Ride actions nationwide as buses launched from the deep South, Southwest and other parts of the country to champion voting rights and democracy reform.
“Voting is fundamental to working people’s power. This is a fight we’re not backing down from—people’s lives and futures are at stake. No one should ever underestimate the determination of the people. We call on Congress to take bold action and deliver the protections we need at the ballot box,” said UNITE HERE International President D. Taylor.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 06/30/2021 - 08:51Tags: COVID-19, Community Service
We Need the PRO Act: 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.
Court’s Latest Anti-Union Ruling Shows Why We Need PRO Act: "In response, AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka released this statement on Wednesday: “We are deeply disappointed that the court reversed a decades-old rule that allowed farm workers to exercise their fundamental right to organize at the location where they work as an unconstitutional ‘taking’ of their employers’ property. As the state of California recognized more than 45 years ago, meeting with the union during off-hours at their workplace is the only practical way for workers to organize when they must regularly move from farm to farm throughout the growing season. The AFL-CIO will do everything in our power to help California farm workers find other pathways to exercise their right to form a union to gain a voice at work and ensure safe and healthy working conditions."
Corporations Like Amazon Pay Big Bucks for 'Union Avoidance'—and It All Happens in the Dark: "Over the past year, we've seen Amazon, the e-commerce Goliath which employs 1.3 million people (roughly equivalent to the entire population of Dallas), launch one of the most aggressive anti-union campaigns in modern corporate history, successfully quashing a months-long employee-led organizing effort at a company warehouse in Bessemer, Alabama."
SAG-AFTRA Teams with AFL-CIO to Offer New Health Options for Medicare-Eligible Members: "SAG-AFTRA and the AFL-CIO have teamed up to provide two new affordable health plan options to all Medicare-eligible SAG-AFTRA members and their spouses, many of whom might have lost, or are in danger of losing, their union health coverage due to recent changes in the guild’s Health Plan eligibility rules. The Motion Picture & Television Fund and the Actors Fund are administering the application process. SAG-AFTRA president Gabrielle Carteris and AFL-CIO president Richard Trumka said in a joint statement that the new options, which will become available in early July, are being offered through Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield, which are group Medicare Advantage plans that include prescription drug coverage."
Striking Alabama Coal Miners Take Protest to Wall Street: "About 14 striking Alabama mine workers have taken their case to Wall Street this morning. Chanting 'no contract, no coal,' the miners today launched the latest step in a strike that began April 1 for a new contract with Warrior Met Coal. United Mine Workers of America President Cecil Roberts and union members plan to protest in front of the Manhattan offices of several hedge funds the union says are the reason the contract negotiations are stalled."
Biden to Nominate Union Lawyer to Key Seat on U.S. Labor Board: "AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka on Tuesday praised Biden in a tweet for 'for acting quickly to return a pro-worker majority to the @NLRB.'"
Most Americans Can Be Fired for No Reason at Any Time, but a New Law in New York Could Change That: "This is how the U.S. works under at-will employment, a legal standard that allows companies to fire people for almost any reason—and sometimes for no reason at all. Unlike in other wealthy countries, where bosses generally have to provide just cause for termination, at-will positions account for most U.S. jobs. This probably includes your job, dear reader. Most white-collar and professional workers aren’t any more legally protected from their bosses’ whims than Walker was. Google software engineers, Wells Fargo & Co. bankers, and Mayo Clinic surgeons work at will. So do humble Bloomberg reporters. The only Americans with a higher standard of protection tend to be limited to the C-suite, the public sector, he nation’s dwindling unionized workplaces, and—because of a complex, decades-old compromise—Montana."
Pope Francis Champions Right of Workers to Organize in Unions: "Pope Francis has championed the right of all workers to unionize, as economic activity is poised to increase when the pandemic threat eases. The pontiff stressed the needs of the most vulnerable workers, including migrants, in a video message Thursday to participants at a conference organized by the International Labor Organization, a United Nations agency based in Geneva. Francis said efforts to rebuild economies after COVID-19 setbacks must aim at a future with 'decent and dignified working conditions,' originating in collective bargaining. He called the 'right to organize in unions' one of the fundamental protections for workers."
Poll: A Majority of Voters Support the PRO Act: "The Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act seems unlikely to succeed in the Senate due to a lack of Republican support—but it has the support of the majority of likely voters, according to a new poll from Vox and Data for Progress. The act, a sweeping labor rights bill, would strengthen unions through overriding Republican-led 'right to work' state laws, which impede unions’ abilities by allowing workers to join without paying dues. It would also penalize companies that restrict union activity, and would bestow independent contractors—such as drivers for Uber and Lyft—with the right to organize and collectively bargain."
Striking Alabama Coal Miners Are Getting Attacked with Pickup Trucks: Report: "The United Mine Workers of America released video last week of two of the three attacks on its picketing members by people driving large trucks. The union says these assaults were carried out '...by persons working for Warrior Met Coal, Inc.' Around 1,100 coal miners have been on strike since the beginning of April, seeking better pay and working conditions, according to the Guardian. Miners accepted a staggering $6-an-hour pay cut, agreed to a strict attendance policy and a steep reduction in benefits five years ago when the last owner of the No. 7 mine in Brookwood, Walter Energy, filed for bankruptcy. Strikers say they now can’t afford basic necessities like food and housing. The miners told the Guardian they are simply seeking payment and benefits similar to other local unionized mines. While the strikers have received a great deal of support from the labor community, their struggle has not received much attention in the press."
PRO Act Levels the Playing Field Between Boss and Workers: "States with 'right to work' laws have lower average wages, lower benefits and decreased safety on the job. This is by design. On top of that, the National Labor Relations Act of 1935, the backbone of labor law in America, excludes domestic workers, farmworkers and independent contractors, leading to more precarity and artificially low wages in these fields. The PRO Act is seeking to undo decades of laws that have kept workers low-paid and at risk on the job."
Biden’s Nominations for the Fed Can Change the Economy. But His First Is Stuck in Limbo: "In the coming months, the Biden White House will have major opportunities to influence the makeup of the Federal Reserve, including whether to re-nominate Jerome H. Powell to another term as chair. But after six months in office, White House hasn’t moved to fill an empty seat on the Fed’s seven-member board of governors, in the midst of the worst economic crisis in a decade. Of the Fed’s top officials, everyone except Gov. Lael Brainard are Republicans nominated by former president Trump. Biden’s first pick would come at a critical time for the economy, as rising inflation and worker shortages complicate the recovery."
How UNITE HERE Turned the West’s Biggest Red State Blue: "UNITE HERE Local 11, which operates in Southern California and Arizona, has been at the forefront of progressive activism in Los Angeles for more than three decades. In 1989, an insurgent campaign for president by Maria Elena Durazo (now a California state senator) wrested control of the local from a more conservative leadership, setting the stage for it to swing leftward in the following decade. The majority of the Unite Here activists who subsequently took center stage were women, opposed to the anti-immigrant stance of the state’s then governor, Pete Wilson, and determined to make their mark on California politics."
LGBTQ Rights and Labor Rights Are Intrinsically Linked: "The core principle of organized labor in America has always been a commitment to fairness and opportunity for all working people—it’s why collective bargaining agreements have long included robust and durable protections that reflect a commitment not only to union members, but to the common good of all our communities and the people who live and work in them. And it’s why our unions—on behalf of 4.9 million workers—are announcing the Labor for Equality Council, a group of unions dedicated to these issues, and to passing the Equality Act to ensure all LGBTQ workers and their families feel safe and welcome in their neighborhoods on the job, and beyond."
What Are You Legally Allowed to Say at Work? A Group of Fired Googlers Could Change the Rules: "The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), the US’s top enforcer of labor rights, just expanded its complaint against Google to include three more fired Google workers. Those former employees say the company retaliated against them for protesting its work with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Now that these workers have been added to the complaint, which will be heard before an administrative judge in August, the outcome of the case could result in a shift in what employees can talk about at work without fear of repercussions from their employer."
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 06/29/2021 - 15:55Pride Month Profiles: Jon Schleuss
For Pride Month, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various LGBTQ+ Americans who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights. Today's Pride Month profile is Jon Schleuss.
Jon Schleuss, president of The NewsGuild-CWA, grew up in rural southern Arkansas. He began his activism in college, organizing student marches and serving on the board of an LGBTQ+ rights group. While working as a data and graphics journalist at the Los Angeles Times, he joined together with his colleagues to organize their newsroom for the first time in the paper's 135-year history.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 06/29/2021 - 09:27Service + Solidarity Spotlight: NABTU and NWLC Team Up to Promote the Care 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.
We in the labor movement know that physical infrastructure and care infrastructure go hand in hand. That’s why North America’s Building Trades Unions (NABTU) and the National Women’s Law Center (NWLC) are joining forces to fight for an infrastructure package that includes funding for family and community care. “We can’t expect an equitable recovery without addressing the lack of child care, home- and community-based services and paid leave that pushed millions of women out of the workforce and devastated their families’ financial security,” NABTU President Sean McGarvey (IUPAT) and NWLC President and CEO Fatima Goss Graves wrote in a recent column for CNN. “Individuals, corporations, philanthropies and ‘the market’ cannot solve this crisis. We need significant investment, especially at the federal level, to build an economy that works for all of us. Right now, we should be worried about spending too little, not too much.”
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 06/29/2021 - 08:30Tags: COVID-19, Community Service
Pride Month Profiles: Julie Searle
For Pride Month, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various LGBTQ+ Americans who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights. Today's Pride Month profile is Julie Searle.
Julie Searle is president of United Steelworkers (USW) Local 955, vice president of the Syracuse Labor Council in New York and a member of the Woman of Steel program. Searle is a member of the union’s first LGBTQ+ Advisory Committee, which works on improving contract language, expanding the union’s education curriculum to be inclusive and intersectional and to decrease incidents of harassment against LGBTQ+ members. Searle works at Packaging Corporation of America in Liverpool and was previously with Crucible Industries for 21 years. She currently serves as chair of the Central New York Women of Steel Committee and has helped organize many Women of Steel fundraisers and community service projects over the past few years. Searle is always one of the first people to volunteer to support the union and worthy causes in the community. She has stepped up in many ways as an activist.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 06/28/2021 - 09:46Service + Solidarity Spotlight: Labor Celebrates Win in Beaumont Mayoral Runoff Election
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.
Announcing the victory of union sister Robin Donatta Mouton, the Texas AFL-CIO reported the following:
Across Texas, the labor movement is celebrating the June 19 election victory by Communications Workers of America (CWA) member Robin Donatta Mouton in a runoff for mayor of Beaumont.
The Sabine Area Central Labor Council worked mightily and indispensably in a coalition that brought in the win, knocking on thousands of doors, phoning union members across the city, holding events around voter participation and, ultimately, contributing heavily to a turnout that was both elevated by the standard of a Juneteenth/Father’s Day weekend election and significantly larger than the May election that set up the runoff.
Justin Cooper, secretary-treasurer of the central labor council (CLC) and president of the Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 479, said: “We showed the entire City of Beaumont what Texas labor can do. They now know the undeniable strength of working people and solidarity.”
Texas AFL-CIO President Rick Levy (CWA) said the labor council’s stellar work supporting Mouton culminates a local election cycle in which CLCs fully renewed labor’s political ground game and scored 14 significant victories in local races as the COVID-19 pandemic receded.
Levy also highlighted the work of CWA on behalf of one of their own.
“The resources and focus of the CWA in this election matched the historic stakes of the outcome,” Levy said.
“We are celebrating a historic victory in Beaumont, Texas,” said CWA District 6 Vice President Claude Cummings. “We not only elected the first Black female Mayor in the city’s history, but a CWA activist and AT&T retiree who truly knows and lives working class values. Robin Mouton needs no coaching on what it takes to improve the lives of working families.”
Read the full statement here.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 06/28/2021 - 08:32Tags: Community Service, COVID-19
Pride Month Profiles: Abi Colon Gomez, Gabriel Mejias Ocasio and Jay Kelly
For Pride Month, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various LGBTQ+ Americans who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights. Today's Pride Month profile is Abi Colon Gomez, Gabriel Mejias Ocasio and Jay Kelly.
Over a year ago, HMSHost workers began to organize for better treatment and a union at the Orlando International Airport. Many workers faced intimidation, disenfranchisement, misgendering and sexual harassment. UNITE HERE members Abi Colon Gomez, Gabriel Mejias Ocasio and Jay Kelly helped lead the fight at the airport.
Kenneth Quinnell Sat, 06/26/2021 - 09:24Pride Month Profiles: Donna Cartwright
For Pride Month, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various LGBTQ+ Americans who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights. Today's Pride Month profile is Donna Cartwright.
Donna Cartwright is a retired member of The NewsGuild-CWA (TNG-CWA). Donna was a copy editor at The New York Times and is believed to be the first Times staffer to publicly disclose her status as a transgender person. She has been a powerful advocate for workers and LGBTQ+ rights, serving as vice president of Pride At Work and founding several important trans rights organizations.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 06/25/2021 - 09:24Service + Solidarity Spotlight: Blair-Bedford CLC Raises $10,000 for Local Food Banks
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 Blair-Bedford Central Labor Council (CLC), led by President Bob Kutz (IBEW), participated virtually in the 2021 National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) food drive by raising $10,000 for five food banks in their community. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the Blair-Bedford CLC held a series of annual events (a food drive, a dance, a banquet and the annual Labor Day parade), but during quarantine, it had to shift its approach. “We decided we would do something good,” Kutz said to each of five local food pantries before giving each a check for an equal share of the raised funds. The funds were raised by the Blair-Bedford CLC and included contributions from locals of the Electrical Workers (IBEW), Transport Workers Union (TWU), United Steelworkers (USW), International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (SMART), Machinists (IAM), AFSCME, Fire Fighters (IAFF), South Central Building Trades and United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America and the Pennsylvania State Education Association.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 06/25/2021 - 08:27Tags: Community Service, COVID-19
Pride Month Profiles: Chelsea Bland
For Pride Month, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various LGBTQ+ Americans who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights. Today's Pride Month profile is Chelsea Bland.
Chelsea Bland is a proud 12-year member of the Office and Professional Employees (OPEIU). She currently serves as the chair of OPEIU Local 2's LGBTQIA+ Committee. Bland is a strong advocate for community service and mutual aid. She is passionate about prioritizing the voices and leadership of Black and other LGBTQ+ people of color within the labor movement.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 06/24/2021 - 09:24
