Service + Solidarity Spotlight: WNBPA Joins Calls for Release of Brittney Griner
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service + Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
On Feb. 17, WNBA star and two-time Olympic gold medalist Brittney Griner was arrested by Russian authorities at a Moscow airport. Since her arrest more than three months ago, the Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) has been strongly advocating for her release. Our union sisters in the NWSL Players Associations (NWSLPA) have joined the WNBPA and thousands of fans in calling for the U.S. government to prioritize Griner’s release from prison. Like so many other elite female athletes, Griner was playing abroad because of unjust pay inequity in American sports.
“It has been 82 days that our friend and sister, Brittney Griner, has been wrongfully detained in Russia. It is time for her to come home,” the NWSLPA tweeted on May 10. “Know that we are watching. We are paying attention.” On Saturday, the NWSLPA retweeted the WNBPA’s statement as Griner’s detention in Russia reached 100 days. Click here to sign the petition.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 06/01/2022 - 09:30This Is a Crisis Point: 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.
‘This Is a Crisis Point’: Job Training Deficit Leaves Critical Jobs Unfilled: “‘Employers have actually been putting less and less money in training over the course of time, and offloaded onto the government,” AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler said. ‘The government has been under-resourcing it; they offloaded it onto the individual. And so that means that they’re taking on more of the risk.’”
Coalition of Black Trade Unionists Meet in L.A.: “Melvin, who will celebrate his 10th anniversary as CBTU president, said, ‘Black workers, Black communities, Black women, Black youth, Black seniors, Black incarcerated men and women are under siege from all directions. ‘Our very humanity is in peril—stoked by anti-Black racism and by the monstrous Big Lie of a stolen presidential election. We must come together—now—in this embattled landscape to affirm our beautiful humanity and to lead the way out of these dark, dark days. True, our plate is full, but we come to L.A. ready to work.’ Melvin, who is also secretary-treasurer of the New York AFL-CIO, said the run-up to the midterm elections would be front and center. ‘Everything is on the ballot in November,’ he declared. ‘Voting rights, civil rights, women’s reproductive freedom, control of Congress and statehouses across the country. The January 6 insurrection showed the world that the Radical Right has decided to take down democracy in order to hold onto power by any means necessary.’”
OSHA Inspects Less Than One-Half of 1% of Firms Yearly: “In 2019, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration inspected fewer than one-half of 1% of U.S. firms it regulated, the non-partisan watchdog Government Accountability Office told Congress on May 25. And that’s around its usual inspection percentage, GAO official Thomas Costa said.”
Job Gains of Black Americans Are Under Threat as Economy Slows: “‘We’re still going to be the last hired, so if you increase the unemployment rate, you just undo all the gains,’ says William Spriggs, chief economist at the AFL-CIO and a Howard University professor. ‘What’s the point of the tight labor market? It is the necessary condition for Black advancement.’”
Culinary, Resorts World Las Vegas Ratify a Labor Contract Covering 2,000 Workers: “Culinary Workers Local 226 announced Wednesday it reached a three-year labor agreement with Resorts World Las Vegas, marking the first all-new union contract at a major Strip resort since 2015. Union negotiators representing the Culinary and its affiliated Bartenders Local 226 reached an agreement with Resorts World management on contract language following a negotiating session on May 17. Three days later, the contract covering more than 2,000 non-gaming employees was ratified by 99 percent of the workforce.”
Women in Construction Say They Find Their Work Rewarding. Why Are There So Few of Them?: “In the construction sector, by contrast, the statistics are drastically different. Preliminary U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data for February show that 13.9% of the 7.6 million employed construction workers are women, said Gary Steinberg, an economist for the agency who is also from Brighton. By comparison, women filled 74% of public education jobs at the beginning of this year, he noted. ‘Women taking on a skilled trade is not typically encouraged in American society and gender roles are ingrained in our culture," said electrician apprentice, Natalia Reyes of Rochester.”
Raven Software Employees Win Union Election: “A group of approximately 30 quality assurance testers at the Activision Blizzard subsidiary Raven Software won their bid for a union Monday afternoon. The workers, who have organized as the Game Workers Alliance, told The Washington Post they hope others in the video game industry follow suit. Eligible workers at Raven Software, which makes Call of Duty titles in Madison, Wisconsin, mailed in ballots to vote in the election this month. The Milwaukee office of the National Labor Relations Board counted the ballots via video conference Monday afternoon, with a tally of 19 voting in favor and 3 against. Both parties have until May 31 to file an objection. If no objection is filed, the results become official on that date, and Raven management must begin bargaining with the union in good faith.”
Report: Google Fiber Subcontractors’ Record Shows Value of Union Labor: “Prepared by the Texas Climate Jobs Project, a year-old nonprofit allied with the Texas AFL-CIO that promotes tackling the climate crisis through good union jobs, the study focuses on Google Fiber, which has been active in Austin since 2013 and San Antonio since 2015. The report homes in especially on the company’s contracting chain—the web of subcontractors that execute Google’s work in Texas. The Climate Jobs Project identified 46 Google Fiber subcontractors in Austin and San Antonio, then dug through government databases to find various violations and problems associated with the companies—issues that labor advocates say often stem from using non-union subcontractors who cut corners on safety and training.”
The U.S. Women’s National Team Notches Its Most Deserved Victory Yet: “The U.S. women’s national soccer team is no stranger to winning—yet this week’s victory closing the gender pay gap between the squad and its male counterpart must taste especially sweet. The battle was as hard-fought as any match, and the prize is worth more to all of sports than any trophy. The U.S. Soccer Federation announced on Wednesday that collective bargaining with the men’s and women’s national teams had resulted in a deal to equalize salaries and bonuses. This final hurrah comes after years of argument between the women’s team and the national governing body, including a lawsuit settled last year for $24 million. During this confrontation, the athlete-employees continued working hard for their employer on the pitch—defeating the globe’s best time and time again with their usual panache. The United States is now the first country to reach equal pay for its men’s and women’s soccer teams. Ideally, it will be far from the last.”
Amazon Accused of Firing North Randall Worker Who Was Trying to Unionize Fulfillment Center, NLRB Investigating: “But while details are lacking, the charge does point to one thing. Unionization is at least being discussed at North Randall’s Amazon facility. Dan O’Malley, leader of the North Shore AFL-CIO, said Amazon has tried to stop unions in the past. ‘Although we are still learning the details of this particular incident in North Randall, Amazon’s illegal and merciless union busting tactics are well documented,” O’Malley said.”
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 05/31/2022 - 12:11Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month Profiles: Darlene Lombos
For Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month this year, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights in the United States. Today's profile is Darlene Lombos of the Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT).
Darlene Lombos, IUPAT District Council 35, is the executive secretary-treasurer of the Greater Boston Labor Council. She is the first woman and person of color to be elected in this top leadership position and is a founding member of the Massachusetts chapter of the Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance. Lombos believes that women have always been the backbone of the labor movement, and in this political moment, labor needs to build the foundation of a new broad-based women's movement. Lombos approaches this moment as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to rebuild the public good toward our vision for vibrant, equitable, democratic communities and an empowered, united, multiracial working class.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 05/31/2022 - 09:53Service + Solidarity Spotlight: Texas AFL-CIO Compiling Ways to Help in Aftermath of Uvalde School Shooting
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 Texas AFL-CIO has posted a list of resources for union members, retirees and allies looking to help the Uvalde, Texas, community in the aftermath of Tuesday’s devastating mass shooting at Robb Elementary School that killed 19 children and two teachers. Affiliated unions are working with the state federation to assist in the labor movement’s response, especially after the crowds that have descended on Uvalde dissipate. If you are wondering how you can help, this developing resource page will get you started.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 05/31/2022 - 09:30Alliance for Retired Americans Facilitates Partnership with Labor Movement, SUNY to Help Students with Family, Financial Obligations
Building on a mentorship program that the Machinists (IAM) established with Aviation High School in Long Island City, New York, the Alliance for Retired Americans has brought together the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), the United Federation of Teachers (UFT) and the IAM in a partnership with the State University of New York (SUNY) that provides pre-enrollment credits toward a college degree for high school students. The credits are for extra classes taken in a high school aviation program.
The partnership will credit graduates from Aviation High School who earn their Federal Aviation Administration airframe or powerplant license with 28 to 29 college credits—roughly the equivalent of one year of college—toward a bachelor’s degree in transportation management or labor studies before they enroll in courses at SUNY Empire State College.
Left to right: Janella Hinds, Vice President, Academic High Schools, UFT; Mary Vaccaro, Vice President for Education, UFT; Steven Jackson, Principal, Aviation High School; Dora Cervantes, General Secretary-Treasurer, IAM; Alliance for Retired Americans President Robert Roach; Sue Epstein, Executive Director, Office of Partnerships, SUNY Empire State College; Nathan Gonyea, Officer in Charge, SUNY Empire; Maria Figueroa, Dean, Harry Van Arsdale Jr. School of Labor Studies, SUNY Empire.
IAM officials have had a mentorship program with Aviation High School for two decades, and the alliance facilitated discussions between AFT, UFT and SUNY officials to set a goal and execute a plan. The work culminated in Aviation High School and SUNY Empire State College representatives formally signing the new agreement on April 27.
“The Alliance is engaging with young people as well as seniors. The program helps students who have to take care of parents, grandparents or other family members during high school, so they are not left behind due to their caregiving responsibilities. It also helps students who have financial or other family obligations and may need to work,” said Robert Roach Jr., president of the alliance. “UFT members, who are affiliated with AFT, were key to obtaining this agreement. Their dedication and expertise led to this successful outcome. This is a program that could go nationwide if the results are what we believe we can achieve.”
More photos from the signing event can be viewed here. Visit the SUNY Empire State College website to learn more about this new and exciting program.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 05/27/2022 - 13:11Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month Profiles: Mikayla Robinson
For Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month this year, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights in the United States. Today's profile is Mikayla Robinson of UAW.
Mikayla Robinson is a UAW staff member based in Massachusetts and a member of the National Organization of Legal Services Workers, UAW Local 2320. She serves as an at-large vice president on the Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance's national executive board and is the chair of APALA's Young Leader Council.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 05/27/2022 - 10:00Service + Solidarity Spotlight: UVC Prepares the Labor Movement to Observe Memorial Day
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.
Memorial Day 2022 is quickly approaching, and to help our unions and federated bodies prepare for this important holiday, the Union Veterans Council, AFL-CIO, (UVC) has created a communications toolkit. With more than 1 million active working military veterans in our movement, every union has members who have served in America’s armed forces. While workers across the nation spend time celebrating with our family and friends, let us also take a moment to remember those who died in service to our country.
Post the following graphics on social media on Memorial Day (Monday, May 30):
- Honor Their Sacrifice (Facebook)
- Honor Their Sacrifice (Instagram)
- Service Through Sacrifice (Facebook)
- Service Through Sacrifice (Instagram)
The UVC will collect and share videos highlighting the voices of union veterans and members. Click here to record a short video and tell us why Memorial Day is important to you. Unions and federated bodies are also being urged to take part in community projects such as cleaning veterans’ memorials and parks in their local area and laying a wreath.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 05/27/2022 - 09:38Working People Respond to Elementary School Mass Shooting in Uvalde, Texas
After another mass shooting, this time at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, working people across the country are saying enough is enough and are calling for action by the U.S. Senate that would prevent gun violence and protect children, working people and everyone else from this scourge. Here's what working people are saying:
AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler:
America’s labor movement is absolutely devastated by the loss of 19 children and two teachers who were shot and killed in their classrooms yesterday afternoon at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas.
On a day when the teachers and students of Robb Elementary School were planning to gear up for summer vacation, they instead faced the unimaginable. Classrooms should be the safest place for a child to learn and for educators to teach.
Yesterday’s horrific tragedy occurred just 10 days after the racially motivated shooting of 10 Black people who were grocery shopping in Buffalo, New York.
These mass shootings are a stark reminder of why the Senate must stop hiding behind arcane procedures to avoid preventing gun violence and take action. Because working people deserve safe workplaces without fear of a mass shooting. And America’s children deserve to learn and thrive in safe schools.
Our hearts are with the family members, friends and loved ones of the victims, the Uvalde community, and educators and school staff everywhere.
Texas AFL-CIO:
The Texas AFL-CIO reacted to the news of the mass shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas.
“Our hearts are broken—yet again,” the state federation said on Tuesday. “Fourteen children and a teacher at Robb Elementary in Uvalde died today, reportedly at the hands of an 18-year-old shooter. Unspeakable tragedy, repeated endlessly. We mourn in solidarity with Uvalde.”
News outlets are reporting that as of today, the death count has risen to include 19 students and two teachers.
AFSCME President Lee Saunders:
Once again this week, we are grieving the loss of innocent lives, including 19 children, in a mass school shooting. We extend our deepest condolences to the families enduring unimaginable heartbreak and to the entire community of Uvalde, Texas. Now, we must also turn anguish into action.
AFSCME has long supported common-sense measures to keep our children safe and to keep deadly firearms out of the hands of dangerous people. We renew our call today for bold measures like expanded background checks and restrictions on the sale of guns to suspected terrorists and others who pose a danger to our communities. We need much bigger investments in mental health services and substance abuse treatment. We need enhanced school security measures – better infrastructure; more School Resource Officers; improved readiness training for teachers and school staff; and more.
The only way we will make change on this life-or-death issue is through the political process. If you are feeling anger and despair, the answer is to hold politicians accountable. The answer is to vote. The answer is to organize your neighbors. The answer is to support candidates at the federal, state and local levels who will take this crisis seriously, who will take the steps necessary to protect our children and our communities.
AFSCME members serve as school employees, emergency medical personnel, law enforcement officers and behavioral health professionals. In other words, we are on the front lines of this crisis. We have a lot at stake. We have expertise to bring to bear. And we will no longer tolerate a failed status quo that has tragic and deadly consequences.
It is long past time to treat this gun violence epidemic like the urgent public health problem that it is. We can balance the rights of responsible gun owners with the right of students, teachers, paraprofessionals, custodians, cafeteria workers, crossing guards and others to walk through the schoolhouse doors without fearing for their lives.
Across the country, we will observe moments of silence this week to remember those who were murdered at Robb Elementary School, just as we did for the victims of the recent supermarket shooting in Buffalo, New York, just as we do seemingly every week. But when we engage on these issues in the political arena, we cannot be silent. We must speak out with clarity and conviction, with passion and resolve, to save the lives of our children.
Amalgamated Transit Union International President John Costa:
The Amalgamated Transit Union is shocked and saddened by the horrific shooting at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, that took the lives of 19 children and 2 teachers and injured dozens.
Our hearts and condolences go out to the victims of this senseless act of violence, their families, and friends, along with our praise for the heroic first responders who brought a halt to the savage murder, saved many lives, and treated the injured with their quick action.
The ATU knows all too well about gun violence after losing our Local 265-San Jose, California, members to a mass shooting at a railyard a year ago tomorrow, Thursday, May 26.
Our country once again mourns for another community devastated by gun violence less than two weeks after mass shootings in Buffalo, California, and Houston. Families are forever changed. Survivors are left to heal both physical and mental wounds.
Thoughts and prayers aren't enough. We must find the courage to come together as a nation to take serious action to ensure that these unspeakable acts of violence never happen again.
American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten:
Within the span of a week, our country has witnessed two mass shootings, the gunning down of innocent people in what should be our community’s safest spaces. As we await further details, some things are clear: These are despicable acts of hatred designed to terrorize us all. The communities of Buffalo and now Uvalde will join a long list of places that will never be the same. Our hearts are with all of them.
Only in America do people go grocery shopping and get mowed down by a shooter with hate in his heart; only in this country are parents not assured that their kids will be safe at school.
Gun violence is a cancer, and it’s one that none of us should tolerate for one single moment longer. We have made a choice to let this continue, and we can make a choice to finally do something—do anything—to put a stop to this madness.
Communications Workers of America:
Once again our country is in mourning over a mass shooting. Once again children and teachers have been injured and killed in a senseless, preventable act of violence. Our thoughts are with the grieving families in Uvalde, Texas, a community that will be marked forever by this tragedy.
National Nurses United/New York State Nurses Association:
As we witness yet another mass shooting, this one taking the lives of at least 19 children and two teachers at a school in Uvalde, Texas, the registered nurses of National Nurses United (NNU) and New York State Nurses Association (NYSNA) are deeply disturbed by Congress’ refusal to reduce gun violence and ensure safe schools, workplaces, and all areas of society by enacting desperately needed gun control laws. Shamefully, Tuesday’s shooting is the 213th mass shooting in the United States this year alone, according to the Gun Violence Archive, an independent data collection organization, and comes just 10 days after a white supremacist shot and killed 10 Black people in Buffalo, N.Y.
“It’s clear that gun violence is a deadly threat to public health in this country,” said Jean Ross, RN and president of NNU, the country’s largest union and professional association of registered nurses. “People can’t go shopping at the supermarket or send their kids to school without fear of getting shot and killed. We all need to be able to feel and be safe: at school, at work, in places of worship, everywhere.”
NYSNA President Nancy Hagans, RN, said, “The trauma of gun violence and especially the mass shootings we have witnessed in recent weeks deeply impacts the victims, survivors, families, first responders, medical professionals who treat the victims, and the entire community. Across the country, nurses, workers, and parents all feel the pain of loss and the despair of knowing too little has changed since the last tragic mass shooting. We need our political leaders to offer more than empty rhetoric — we need real change. Gun violence is a public health emergency, and we need to use every tool possible to remedy it.”
In keeping with nurses’ commitment to promote the health and well-being of all people, NNU has called since 2019 for the ban of assault weapons.
“Assault weapons are incredibly lethal,” said Ross. “These weapons are designed with only one purpose in mind: to kill human beings.”
Gun violence is a leading cause of premature death in the United States, the American Public Health Association notes. Guns killed more than 45,000 people in the United States in 2020, a 43 percent increase from 10 years earlier. As of 2020, gun violence became the leading cause of death for children and teens up to the age of 19, according to a study from the University of Michigan.
“Our community is still reeling from the racist mass shooting and the bomb threat at the Erie County Department of Health clinic in Buffalo,” said Murnita Bennett, RN, a NYSNA member at Erie County Medical Center. “Now our schools are tightening security in the event of more copycat gun violence. How can we heal from violence when our communities still feel under siege? As a society, we must prioritize saving lives and creating safe, healthy communities for everyone, regardless of zip code. We need our elected leaders to take action.”
Nurses who care for gunshot victims say it is hard for lay people to imagine the damage bullets cause to the human body. Angela Alvarez, a registered nurse at Long Beach Memorial Medical Center in Long Beach, Calif. says it is especially difficult for nurses and other medical professionals when a gun victim is a child.
“They haven’t really lived their life yet,” said Alvarez. “It’s just pure sadness. I remember standing in a trauma room, everybody just stood there and cried and held each other. It is such a sad and devastating thing to witness.”
The number of firearms in circulation now stands at nearly 400 million, according to news sources, a number that has nearly tripled since 2000 and that has spiked sharply in the past three years. So-called “gun rights” groups spent nearly $16 million lobbying in 2021. While Gov. Greg Abbott has bragged about Texas having some of the most lax gun laws in the United States, Republican lawmakers in Congress have routinely blocked even moderate federal gun control legislation.
“Nurses advocate for our patients’ health and for public health,” said Ross. “We will be joining efforts to win the gun control reforms we need to make our society safe. This means confronting the extremist agenda of far-right politicians and their gun lobby backers, and it means holding them accountable for disregarding the health and safety of our communities.”
UAW President Ray Curry and UAW Region 8 Director Mitchell Smith:
Our union grieves today over another senseless and violent tragedy. Nineteen children were taken from their families in Uvalde, Texas yesterday. Two educators who devoted themselves to their profession are gone. UAW members will stand with the community of Uvalde both today and tomorrow.
UNITE HERE International President D. Taylor:
Another day in America, another mass shooting tragedy. What actually needs to happen for there to be reform? UNITE HERE joins the overwhelming majority of this country in calling for comprehensive background checks as a first step to tackle these senseless murders.
These are kids we’re talking about here. Black grandparents and workers at the grocery store. Church goers. Who are we as a labor movement if we don’t join the fight to end this nonsense?
We cannot become numb to this. And we cannot let ourselves feel powerless against this. We have everything it takes to hold politicians accountable for this—and as a labor movement, we have the organizing chops to move mountains when we try.
UNITE HERE sends much love and solidarity to the grieving families today and every day.
Alliance for Retired Americans President Robert Roach Jr.:
The members of the Alliance join with all Americans who were devastated by this most recent, terrible gun violence in Texas in calling for an end to the heinous bloodshed. Our thoughts are once again with the deceased, the injured and all of their loved ones. We send our deepest wishes for healing to everyone affected by this senseless attack, this time at an elementary school.
We need the United States Senate to take appropriate and aggressive action on gun safety immediately. We must protect American citizens, families, workers, teachers, and especially children, from this incessant violence. And we must act without delay to keep guns out of the hands of criminals and the mentally ill.
John Durso, President of Long Island Federation of Labor and RWDSU/UFCW Local 338:
Earlier this month, we watched another tragedy develop in which a gunman entered a public space and took innocent lives. This time, Black employees and shoppers were targeted at a Tops Friendly Market in Buffalo, where 10 people, including four Tops employees—one of whom was a member of UFCW Local 1—were shot and killed in an act of racist domestic terrorism.
Grocery workers have already had an incredibly challenging two years navigating their own health and safety on the front lines of the pandemic. They are the people we rightly hailed as heroes, the essential workers we depended upon to make it through the worst of the pandemic. The last thing they should have to worry about now is an armed individual with a motive coming into their workplace.
This shooting was another preventable act of gun violence. In 2021, there were at least five separate incidences of gun violence in supermarkets across the country. The deadliest shooting of 2021 left 10 dead at a King Soopers grocery store in Boulder, Colorado. My union, Local 338 RWDSU/UFCW, lost one of our own last April, after a gunman opened fire at a Stop & Shop in West Hempstead and killed longtime member Ray Wishropp.
People shouldn't go to work thinking there is a chance they won’t come home. They shouldn’t have to think about the possibility of deadly violence occurring at their workplace. It is critical that this trend does not continue. We need to be doing more to protect working people.
I’m not saying we must take guns away—but more needs to be done to monitor extremism, misinformation, and people who pose a risk to the safety of our society. The Buffalo shooter had already been investigated for making threatening statements about wanting to carry out a mass shooting last year. Statements like that should have been a clear sign that this was someone who should not have been allowed to legally purchase a gun.
Gun violence is endemic in our country. We must call on elected officials on the state and federal level to establish common sense gun legislation, including universal background checks, and we must do a better job of policing ghost guns and high-caliber assault rifles. According to the FBI, there were 40 active shooter incidents in 2020, the highest rate in two decades. Twenty-four were in “commerce-related environments” including supermarkets, gas stations, and convenience stores.
We cannot continue to stand by and allow these senseless, preventable acts of violence to occur. Our elected officials must listen to the constituents who voted them into office and move to ensure that no more lives are taken because people who shouldn’t be allowed to purchase guns can walk into a gun shop and buy a deadly weapon without an issue.
Our hearts break for the families of those who lost their lives in the Buffalo shooting, and our brothers and sisters at UFCW Local 1 whose members worked at the Tops supermarket and provided a key service to their community. We know that moments of senseless violence will leave an impact on their families and communities for a long time to come.
Nebraska State AFL-CIO President Susan L. Martin:
Yesterday, we learned of yet another senseless, preventable shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde Texas. I can’t begin to imagine the horror and feeling of loss this community is dealing with right now. Our hearts and prayers go out to this community and to all communities that have been affected by these senseless actions.
It is time to pass common sense laws to keep these assault weapons out of the hands of those who are not responsible enough to use them. It is time to approach our elected officials and hold them accountable to our citizens and not to lobbyists.
Oregon AFL-CIO:
Yesterday, yet another tragic and completely preventable loss of life occurred in Uvalde, Texas. Oregon’s labor movement sends our sincere condolences to the families and loved ones of the 21 people who died in this unspeakably horrific incident. School should be the safest place for our children to learn and educators to teach. The terror caused by another violent act in a school must lead to meaningful action from lawmakers to ensure no more families have to face the mountainous grief and sorrow that far too many have already experienced.
The tragic events at Robb Elementary School occurred just 10 days after the racially motivated shooting of 10 Black people grocery shopping in New York. These most recent mass shootings remind us of why the Senate has to stop hiding behind their arcane procedures which allow them to avoid taking real action to prevent gun violence. Working families deserve safe schools and workplaces, without fear of mass shootings.
We must do better for our kids, for our educators and school employees, and for our communities. Our hearts are with the families, friends and loved ones of the victims and with the entire Uvalde community as they mourn and grieve.
Philadelphia Council AFL-CIO:
Hate fueled gun violence in our society is a terrible scourge. We must act with courage and decisiveness. Gun violence destroys people, families, and whole communities. It shatters our liberty and freedom. Who is free when children cannot go to school safely? What are our freedoms worth if we can’t send our children to school or shop in a grocery store without fear of mayhem, injury, and death? The recent mass killings in Buffalo, New York last week appear to be inspired by racial hate. Ten killed and three wounded for the simple crime of shopping while black. As of now, we do not know the precise motive for the killings yesterday at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas. This much we know, it was a manifestation of evil. There is no motivation that can explain the killing of over a dozen innocent children.
The last two weeks have made it crystal-clear that there are people among us that would do us all harm. They were given an operational assist by a poor public safety system and the ease with which bad actors can acquire extremely deadly weapons of mass destruction. What else can you call a military style rifle with enormous ammunition capacity?
Gun accessibility and weaponized hate has made us all unsafe. We must take steps for an immediate passage of legislation for universal background checks to keep guns out of the hands of those who are unworthy of gun ownership and have a history of potentially dangerous conduct. Certain types of weapons need to be banned. Let’s return the 1990’s assault weapons ban and eliminate the high-capacity magazines that fuels such deadly rampages. Owning a gun is a constitutional right, owning a weapon of mass destruction is not. We can decide what is responsible, legal, and constitutionally protected gun ownership in our nation. We must define it. Unregulated, uncontrolled gun ownership is not liberty, it is license for a few to terrorize and kill, and ultimately to destroy our communities. Those who allow this to continue, will be solely responsible for the continued threats, injuries, and murders.
The alleged killer in the Buffalo shootings was known to police – he was questioned and released a month before his killing spree. We need a national background check system to flag people who have a history of violence, have been tagged and tracked as dangerous, or with severe mental illness that would make them a danger to themselves and others. These people should not be able to purchase weapons.
Lastly, something must be done to compel social media platforms to stop the spread of misinformation and broadcasting of violence and hate-filled communication. Criminal statutes should allow civil authorities to pursue criminal facilitation and accessory charges against social platforms which spread violent images and others whose actions support hate crimes and mass violence.
In the words of Mother Jones: “We mourn the dead, fight like hell for the living.”
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Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 05/26/2022 - 11:07Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month Profiles: Sumi Haru
For Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month this year, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights in the United States. Today's profile is Sumi Haru of SAG-AFTRA.
A longtime Screen Actors Guild board member and officer, the late Sumi Haru became the first Asian American elected to the AFL-CIO Executive Council in 1995, serving until 2001. "Actors should be involved because trade unionism is about organizing," she said. "It’s about safety for workers, decent wages, making sure we have medical coverage and pension benefits, and have dignity in the workplace."
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 05/26/2022 - 10:00Service + Solidarity Spotlight: Nurses and Techs in Newark Strike Against Management’s Demands for Givebacks
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.
Citing management’s unwillingness to negotiate in good faith and its blatant disregard for the safety of nurses, technologists and patients, 350 members of the Jersey Nurses Economic Security Organization (JNESO) went on strike Monday at St. Michael’s Medical Center in Newark, New Jersey. The union, which is affiliated with the Operating Engineers (IUOE), said management is demanding givebacks from nurses and technologists at the bargaining table that “defy 42 years of contract history with the hospital.”
“They want to eliminate the float block language we bargained for years ago that keeps nurses in areas they are competent and trained to serve,” JNESO President Elfrieda Johnson explained. “JNESO fought hard alongside members of the community to save St. Michael’s from closing in 2014, we have a vested interest in seeing it succeed, but not at the expense of the nurses and techs who care for the patients and community every day.”
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 05/26/2022 - 09:30Workers' Leverage is Here to Stay: 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.
Workers’ Leverage Is Here to Stay: “American workers have the upper hand over their employers right now—and there are tentative signs it could last, even as economic storm clouds gather….There were 661 new union filings in the first quarter of 2022—these are petitions from groups of workers seeking to hold union elections. That’s up from 448 in the same quarter in 2020 before COVID, according to data tracked by Kevin Reuning, a political science professor at Miami University.”
Unions Weigh In on East Buffalo Tragedy: “‘The entire labor movement is appalled by the killing of 10 people and wounding of three by a man with racist beliefs who targeted Black people,’ said AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler and Secretary-Treasurer/Executive Vice President Fred Redmond in a joint statement. ‘While there’s no way to make sense of yet another racially motivated, hate-inspired attack on innocent people because of the color of their skin, it’s clear these types of mass shootings are perpetrated by those radicalized online, and we must take action. Our deepest condolences are with the family, friends, [United Food and Commercial Workers] members and an entire community who are once again dealing with unfathomable pain due to one person’s racist beliefs.’”
U.S. Women’s and Men’s National Soccer Teams Close Pay Gap With ‘Game-Changing’ Deal: “The U.S. men’s and women’s national soccer teams struck a labor deal that closes the contentious pay gap between the squads, an unprecedented step that will equalize both salaries and bonuses, providing a substantial boost to the decorated women’s team. The deal was part of new collective bargaining agreements with the U.S. Soccer Federation [USSF] that were announced Wednesday morning. It was the culmination of a long battle between the women’s team and the sport’s national governing body, which included a high-profile lawsuit that was settled this year. The USSF said the agreement makes the United States the first country to achieve equal pay for its men’s and women’s soccer teams. ‘To finally get to the point where on every economic term it’s equal pay, I am just really proud,’ USSF president Cindy Parlow Cone said.”
Architects Draft a New Blueprint for a Labor Movement: “In December, workers at SHoP [Architects] pushed the envelope again: Architects with the 135-employee firm announced a bid to unionize. Under the banner Architectural Workers United, the workers mounted the first significant labor push in the building design industry since 1971….‘When architectural workers first reached out to us, my first question was, what is the standard now?’ says David DiMaria, an organizer with the [Machinists], the global trade union that Architectural Workers United hoped to affiliate with. DiMaria describes feeling a ‘holy s--t moment’ as he surveyed the field: ‘This is a professional trade that is completely not unionized.’”
Newly Organized Workers Are Talking About Why It’s Important to Join a Union: “With AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler, New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy and newly organized cannabis worker members of United Food and Commercial Workers Local 360 and Starbucks Workers United, New Jersey AFL-CIO President Charlie Wowkanech opened the press conference with the essential point: ‘Workers deserve what the bosses are getting: better wages, health care, decent working conditions and respect on the job.’....‘This is your moment; workers are showing everyone what can be done when they organize, that they can take on the corporate giants and win,’ said AFL-CIO President Shuler.”
The Year Workers Said No: “Liz Shuler, the president of the AFL-CIO, the country’s largest labor federation, said the past year has shown ‘workers in motion.’ ‘Coming out of the pandemic, working people have not only shown their resilience, but they’ve shown that they are ready to draw a line and demand more,’ she said.”
United Reaches New Contract Deal With Pilots’ Union, the First of the Major Airlines in Pandemic: “United Airlines and its pilots’ labor union have reached an agreement on new contract terms, the first of the major carriers to strike a deal since the start of the COVID pandemic. The crisis roiled the industry and exacerbated a pilot shortage and training backlog. The Air Line Pilots Association and United didn’t disclose the terms of the deal on Friday, but they will likely include higher pay and other improvements. United has had perhaps the least contentious relationship with its pilots’ union of the major carriers and struck early deals during the pandemic to keep aviators on staff and trained.”
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 05/25/2022 - 10:13Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month Profiles: Lucia Hsiung
For Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month this year, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights in the United States. Today's profile is Lucia Hsiung of UNITE HERE.
Lucia Hsiung is a shop steward at Brandeis University Dining Services, where she has worked for more than 21 years. She enjoys the fast pace and excitement of worker rallies and strikes.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 05/25/2022 - 10:00Service + Solidarity Spotlight: Texas Climate Jobs Project’s Report Shows the Right Way to Build Fast, Reliable Fiber Broadband
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 Texas labor movement is fighting to ensure that jobs in emerging industries are good union jobs. A new report from the Texas Climate Jobs Project, a project of Fair Shot Texas and Fair Shot Texas Action Fund in partnership with the Texas AFL-CIO, demonstrates that fiber broadband work is best performed by union members who are ready, safe and well-trained to get the job done right. The report, What Lies Beneath, also found that eight individual contractors associated with Google Fiber projects in Texas are named in 29 separate Occupational Safety and Health Administration enforcement records, and were fined at least $227,375.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 05/25/2022 - 09:35Every Job Site Should Be Safe: 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:
.@IvySpohnholz, you have always been a steadfast champion of Alaska's working families. We are forever grateful for the opportunities to work together over the past 6 years. Thank you for your service, and best of luck in whatever adventure comes next! #akleg https://t.co/70HVPwU4kF
— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) May 20, 2022Arizona AFL-CIO:
Sign up to be a part of the Labor 2022 movement! When we have important conversations with voters, we can win elections. Let's work together to elect champions for Arizona's workers and make real progress for working people. #Labor2022 https://t.co/QlItl0q8z3
— Arizona AFL-CIO (@ArizonaAFLCIO) May 23, 2022California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:
No worker should be denied affordable health care coverage. It's a lifeline for working families. But right now corporations can weaponize employees' health care coverage during a labor dispute.
The Assembly JUST passed #AB2530, so we're urging the Senate to do the same! https://t.co/kSPb0MCuaE
Connecticut AFL-CIO:
CT @AFLCIO President @EHawthorne3 on Gov. Lamont signing our captive audience legislation into law:
Yesterday, @GovNedLamont took an important step in protecting working people from employer intimidation and harassment during union organizing campaigns.
Florida AFL-CIO:
This weekend, the Florida AFL-CIO led a strategic planning meeting with labor leaders from across the Sunshine State. Florida's labor movement stands together in solidarity!
Special thanks to the Cedar Key Historical Society for sharing their history with us! pic.twitter.com/o2zfcjdjR8
Illinois AFL-CIO:
Great article about the Mother Jones Festivalhttps://t.co/uaZE7jene5
— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) May 17, 2022Indiana State AFL-CIO:
Damn straight. 🔥
https://t.co/D3AFqdnInA
Iowa Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO:
Public money belongs in public schools – Daily High Five https://t.co/8zcoYcKV2S
— Iowa AFL-CIO (@IowaAFLCIO) May 24, 2022Maine AFL-CIO:
When asked why she is so passionate about the labor movement, State Rep. @amyroeder doesn’t miss a beat.
“I owe my entire life to labor,” she says.
Check out our interview with this year's “Edie Beaulieu Legislative Award” winner!https://t.co/z1B3Wosd7Q #mepolitics
Maryland State and D.C. AFL-CIO:
Yesterday, May 18, 2022, The MD State and DC Committee on Political Education (COPE) met to vote on endorsements for candidates running for office in the Maryland and DC Primaries. 1/8
— Maryland State and DC AFL-CIO (@MDDCStateFed) May 19, 2022Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
ICYMI: Last week the Massachusetts AFL-CIO made several statewide endorsements. We are proud to support @maura_healey for Governor, @ShannonForAG for AG, @BillGalvin4MA for Sec of the Commonwealth, and @DianaDiZoglio for Auditor! #mapoli pic.twitter.com/1Tdg3P28kc
— Massachusetts AFL-CIO // Build Back Better (@massaflcio) May 23, 2022Michigan State AFL-CIO:
"Cutting taxes isn't just fiscally irresponsible; it's lazy. At bottom, It represents a cowardly evasion of the Legislature's primary responsibility, which is to invest tax dollars in a way that enhances our state's value for everyone." https://t.co/cDV5y6voao
— Michigan AFL-CIO 💉💪 (@MIAFLCIO) May 23, 2022Minnesota AFL-CIO:
Kahler Hotel employees continue to push for better working conditions https://t.co/6ySu2cSduC #1u @UNITEHERE17 pic.twitter.com/SBWwJfWrxx
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) May 23, 2022Missouri AFL-CIO:
American workers have the upper hand over their employers right now — and there are tentative signs it could last, even as economic storm clouds gather. https://t.co/gG59IkZCy8
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) May 22, 2022Montana State AFL-CIO:
Congratulations to the newly unionized journalists at the Bozeman Chronicle! https://t.co/Zkb6uv9jg5
— Montana AFL-CIO (@MTaflcio) May 18, 2022Nevada State AFL-CIO:
Thank you Harry for giving our Executive Secretary Treasurer Susie Martinez a tour of the @DC16IUPAT #Apprenticeship Program!
This program covers:
✔️Drywall finishing
✔️Floor covering
✔️Glazing
✔️Commercial & industrial painting
For more info, visit: https://t.co/BaIf5hcBu4 pic.twitter.com/L2tB0cKgIM
New Hampshire AFL-CIO:
Coalition Wednesday! Labor, clergy, & House members join the Faith & Labor coalition & Manch ed. bd. member Jim O'Connell briefs Moral Economy table on $15 wages. Next up - an increasing activism meeting !@AFTNewHampshire @AFSCME93 @SEIU1984 @NHNEAPrez @UAW2322 @PFFNH @AFTUnion pic.twitter.com/M3ZfB4adpy
— NewHampshire AFL-CIO (@NHAFLCIO) May 18, 2022New Jersey State AFL-CIO:
We are proud to join the picket line and show St. Michael's the strength of our solidarity. Fair contract now! https://t.co/hdLHAssyAH
— New Jersey AFL-CIO (@NJAFLCIO) May 24, 2022New York State AFL-CIO:
JUST ANNOUNCED: See the NYS AFL-CIO's endorsements of candidates running in primary races for New York State Assembly: https://t.co/2SJy9i8Pph pic.twitter.com/zBZDxxzivX
— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) May 19, 2022North Carolina State AFL-CIO:
Congratulations to @CheriBeasleyNC, our endorsed candidate for U.S. Senate, on winning the Democratic primary! 🥳✊ #ncpol #ncsen #1u pic.twitter.com/jeqQQFh4lL
— NC State AFL-CIO // #OrganizeTheSouth (@NCStateAFLCIO) May 18, 2022Ohio AFL-CIO:
If like to kick a$$ for the working class, this may be the job for you! https://t.co/IGQ3lslKvB
— 🇺🇦 Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) May 23, 2022Oklahoma State AFL-CIO:
Thanks to everyone who donated food for the National Letter Carriers' Stamp Out Hunger 2022 Food Drive.
And a thank you to everyone who helped with sorting the donated goods on Saturday, May 14th!
We couldn't have done it without all of your help! pic.twitter.com/1DmF3GYMG0
Oregon AFL-CIO:
If you're experiencing mental illness such as depression, knowing your rights in the workplace can make a big difference in how you cope. #MentalHealthAwarenessMonthhttps://t.co/AMpwFsp3Uh pic.twitter.com/VkSrGr0G4h
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) May 19, 2022Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:
We’re proud to share that our Pennsylvania AFL-CIO President Rick Bloomingdale has been named to @MetroPhilly’s 2022 PA #Labor #PowerPlayers List!
Congratulations, President Bloomingdale! Thank you for your dedication to making PA the best we can be for ALL workers! #1u ✊ pic.twitter.com/k7RcEl3RWW
Rhode Island AFL-CIO:
Read this week's E-News-->https://t.co/4D5DHTrgQq @LIUNANewEngland @1199SEIU #1u #Unions #UnionStrong #Solidarity #UnionYes pic.twitter.com/xNLBiWohTn
— Rhode Island AFL-CIO (@riaflcio) May 19, 2022Tennessee AFL-CIO Labor Council:
An incredibly important read from @Dulcet24 w/ the @TNLookout. No worker should ever have to worry about whether they'll make it home safely at the end of the day.
Every job site should be a safe one. We can and we must do better. #1u https://t.co/z9uOqiyLJd
Texas AFL-CIO:
Good morning! ✨
Todays the day, so grab some coffee (maybe from one of our organizing Starbucks locations like @atx_sbwu @sbwuatx45lamar) and then go VOTE!!
Labor-endorsed candidates need you to turn out today!! #1u pic.twitter.com/3wXkqSxKoa
Virginia AFL-CIO:
We pray for the families, friends, and communities of these heroic lives taken away too early by this senseless racist and violent act in the Buffalo attack. We continue to stand for creating change and make a difference in this world. May we all find healing at this time. https://t.co/pc6xTfgSkP
— Virginia AFL-CIO (@Virginia_AFLCIO) May 16, 2022Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:
That's a wrap for our morning program! Follow @TheStandWA for an update on endorsements later today #COPE2022
— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) May 21, 2022Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
Workers at Middleton-based Raven Software, form one of the first video game workers unions. The company is a 'Call of Duty' contributor. https://t.co/xm7Te5UC7X via @journalsentinel
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) May 24, 2022 Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 05/24/2022 - 12:20Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month Profiles: Stella Kalaoram
For Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month this year, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights in the United States. Today's profile is Stella Kalaoram of UNITE HERE.
When she’s not volunteering with the Culinary Union, Stella Kalaoram works within the Asian community, primarily with the Thai and Chinese communities. Kalaoram speaks Mandarin and Thai fluently. By word of mouth, people find her, and Kalaoram takes them to the Social Security, welfare or citizenship offices to help them translate and fill out paperwork.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 05/24/2022 - 10:00Service + Solidarity Spotlight: Tragedy Turns to Solidarity for Members of UFCW Local 1 After Racially Motivated Mass Shooting
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 United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 1 are channeling their grief by coming together in the wake of the recent mass shooting at a grocery store in Buffalo, New York. A young man adhering to a vile racist ideology targeted the Tops Friendly Markets store in a predominantly Black neighborhood in Buffalo. The supermarket, where dozens of Local 1 members earn a living, was the place where 10 people (all of whom were Black) were killed and another three were injured.
Local 1 President and UFCW International Vice President Frank DeRiso announced that a special fund has been established to benefit the union members impacted by the attack. “The horror our members experienced from a racially charged terrorist is unthinkable,” DeRiso said. “This will be a long road to recovery for the victims of this tragedy and this is just one way UFCW Local One is helping our members that were targeted by hate.” The funds will be used to help members of Local 1 recover from this horrific tragedy and to give a donation to the family of Aaron Salter, a retired Buffalo policeman and Tops security officer who made the ultimate sacrifice and saved countless lives with his heroic actions.
All union members and supporters are urged to donate to the fund by sending contributions to: Local One Relief Fund, 5911 Airport Road, Oriskany, NY 13424.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 05/24/2022 - 09:30Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month Profiles: Dennis Chong
For Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month this year, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights in the United States. Today's profile is Dennis Chong of AFGE.
Yunup Dennis Chong is the vice president of AFGE Local 3615, which serves Social Security employees in Falls Church, Virginia. He is the chair of AFGE's Asian American Pacific Islander constituency group APOWER (Asian Pacific Organized Workers Empowering Representation) and sits on the national executive board for the Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance. One of his top priorities is to organize and mobilize more Asian American Pacific Islander brothers, sisters and siblings to join the labor movement.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 05/23/2022 - 10:00Service + Solidarity Spotlight: AFSCME Local in Kansas City Secures Large Wage Increases
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.
Public service employees who work for Kansas City, Missouri, celebrated last week as their union, AFSCME Local 500, and city leaders signed a new contract. The collective bargaining agreement sets a citywide minimum wage of $16 an hour for seasonal and part-time workers, and $17 an hour for full-time workers. It also includes an average wage increase of 12.6%, plus a longevity pay bonus for workers with five or more years working at the city.
“This is a step in the right direction,” Local 500 President Reginald Silvers told KSHB. “The goal is recruitment, retention and training, and we have solved some of those problems with these negotiations. Local 500 is grateful and appreciative.”
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 05/23/2022 - 09:30Never Quit: 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:
Convention Rules Subcommittee Chair Elizabeth Yvette Ramirez introduces themselves and discusses some of the work being done in the lead-up to this year's convention.
The 2022 national convention will be held online from Oct 30 through Nov 1.
Stay tuned for more updates. pic.twitter.com/1UB7hJjgQs
AFGE:
Here’s how the TSA and firefighter benefits bills would honor the employees and the work they do→ #1u https://t.co/MqsQ5pU3QR
— AFGE (@AFGENational) May 18, 2022AFSCME:
At the start of the pandemic, Jenny Barta stepped up to face the most urgent of tasks: helping coordinate her community’s pandemic response. Jenny’s commitment to keeping her community safe is just one of the many reasons she is a winner of AFSCME’s Never Quit Service Award. pic.twitter.com/eqZc0lmw0X
— AFSCME (@AFSCME) May 18, 2022Alliance for Retired Americans:
ALERT: Americans are now eligibile for a third round of free COVID tests to be mailed by USPS!
Order yours at https://t.co/aa4Q0qMX0ehttps://t.co/fswn23uf1E
Amalgamated Transit Union:
Today, ATU Int. Pres. John Costa and IST Ken Kirk held the third of five zoom meetings of the ATU Joint Industry Councils with the Multi-Employer JIC. #TogetherWeFightTogetherWeWin #1u pic.twitter.com/KJVJF0ww3e
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) May 18, 2022American Federation of Musicians:
We are deeply saddened to announce the sudden loss of our esteemed colleague and friend, Pat Varriale, Electronic Media Services Division Director and Assistant to the President, who passed away Friday, May 13.https://t.co/zf6NhQ4rTf
— AFM (@The_AFM) May 15, 2022American Federation of Teachers:
Every Thursday this month, @AFTHigherEd is hosting a student debt clinic to help our members navigate their student debt. If you have questions about repayment plans, #PSLF, or how to @SaveWithSummer, get registered to learn more.
Register: https://t.co/RAYSSC800R pic.twitter.com/dUlIIepgyN
American Postal Workers Union:
The APWU proudly supports #M4A. "It's time for a healthcare system that prioritizes the health of many over the profits of the few. It's time for Medicare for All." - APWU President Mark Dimondstein https://t.co/2MG5QPH1cs pic.twitter.com/dhENmAomsJ
— APWU National (@APWUnational) May 12, 2022Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance:
Mikayla Robinson is a @UAWRegion9A servicing rep and VP @massaflcio. As a young labor leader, she was elected to APALA's board last year and now chairs our Young Leaders Council. Celebrate AAPI leaders like her by chipping in to support APALA for #APAHM! https://t.co/D2ExOMiHvF pic.twitter.com/YSFSukZ6Lt
— Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance, AFL-CIO (@APALAnational) May 18, 2022Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:
Aviation's First Responders at work. Kudos to the entire Frontier AFA crew for safely welcoming a new passenger mid-flight. Proud to call you our flying partners! 💚💙✈️ https://t.co/aI2DujmPxl
— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) May 18, 2022Boilermakers:
#Boilermakers enter for your chance to win! https://t.co/Dda1G3NTu1
No purchase necessary. See details. Ends 6/11.@UnionPlus#BoilermakersUnion pic.twitter.com/pqfQeqUN5F
Bricklayers:
"Anytime we can get a larger pool to pull from and more people interested the better we are," said Steve Morrow of Bricklayers Local 15.https://t.co/UqmftgFQiU
— Bricklayers Union (@IUBAC) May 16, 2022Coalition of Black Trade Unionists:
Breaking News:
Statement from CBTU President Terry Melvin on the Buffalo Mass Murder #BREAKING NEWS #BuffaloMassacre #TopsSupermarket #1u pic.twitter.com/tu5ysT53wg
Communications Workers of America:
CWAers are proud to welcome Apple workers into the CWA family and wish them courage and strength as they get ready to vote to gain a voice at work pic.twitter.com/09TqKI7MmY
— CWA (@CWAUnion) May 17, 2022Department for Professional Employees:
The NEA and NEH support job opportunities for union creative professionals in every state while providing all Americans with access programs that lift up local economies. Contact your Senators today and tell them to fund the arts. https://t.co/eYNVb0qkeh pic.twitter.com/1qVYAtXhuY
— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) May 18, 2022Electrical Workers:
The panoramic photo for the 40th #IBEW International Convention is now available to order for your union hall or office. Click here to get your copy: https://t.co/Sh6na1QYus
— IBEW (@IBEW) May 18, 2022Fire Fighters:
The deadline for nominations for the 2022 #IAFF Local Leadership Awards is Monday, May 23. Learn more and submit nominations: https://t.co/PM7cKyExK2 pic.twitter.com/XeFWaKbktd
— IAFF (@IAFFNewsDesk) May 18, 2022Heat and Frost Insulators:
Equal pay and equal opportunities for advancement of women is what the Mechanical Insulators is all about. Join a Union that cares about its Sisters: https://t.co/Kyi7G6JwZK pic.twitter.com/RNxKLYLjEQ
— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) May 18, 2022International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers:
We’re fired up at our #StaffUpSunnyvale Bargaining Kickoff Rally! 🪧✊
Stand with city workers and join our movement TODAY at https://t.co/lsdLniLlw3 pic.twitter.com/Gp5gK628i7
International Labor Communications Association:
For our June ILCA First Friday series, we're joining @MetroLaborNYC for their 46th Annual Convention! ILCA Pres @chelseaconnor will join @GrimKim, @RichardSteier, @roguecedro, and @BillFletcherJr for a panel discussion on Media and Labor 6/3 @ 10 AM. RSVP: https://t.co/MBQVQ2gxgq pic.twitter.com/9CBpt3Uabb
— International Labor Communications Association (@ILCAonline) May 18, 2022Ironworkers:
Today’s announcement – made possible by the American Rescue Plan Act – enables Local 17’s fund to fully restore retirees’ benefits and is an important first step towards securing the retirement that all Ironworkers work so hard to achieve. https://t.co/L7TvZkuF6f pic.twitter.com/FCFlSgLOoN
— Ironworkers (@TheIronworkers) May 18, 2022Jobs With Justice:
Hey @McDonalds--can y'all use the money from the sale to raise wages for McD's workers or nah? https://t.co/kUDYKj53Nl
— Jobs With Justice (@jwjnational) May 16, 2022Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:
Environmental racism continues to impact communities of color. Read below to learn more. ⤵️https://t.co/R6bCNOyzNb
— LCLAA (@LCLAA) May 16, 2022Laborers:
Temperatures are on the rise. Be safe and protect yourself from the heat! pic.twitter.com/IGjwgounin
— LIUNA (@LIUNA) May 20, 2022Machinists:
Solidarity & preparation have paid off for more than 120 members of Local 1581 (District 54) who proudly produce firefighting equipment used around the world. 💪 #newcontract #machinistsstrong
— Machinists Union (@MachinistsUnion) May 20, 2022Metal Trades Department:
Registration is open for the 2022 Annual Metal Trades Department Conference. Sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities are available. Register today at https://t.co/mzgpah0a5V pic.twitter.com/bgddIUKzHl
— Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) May 17, 2022Mine Workers:
"...the company reported almost $10 million in costs associated to the ongoing strike with the United Mine Workers of America, now in its 13th month." https://t.co/i6WDdtziXu
— United Mine Workers (@MineWorkers) May 10, 2022Musical Artists:
AGMA Ratifies 3-Year Agreement with Colorado Ballet: https://t.co/oanT1Une5K pic.twitter.com/IXG2hWPwvX
— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) May 19, 2022National Air Traffic Controllers Association:
NATCA President Rich Santa recently had a meeting with @RogerMarshallMD (R-Kansas). They discussed air traffic control staffing and a wide range of other topics important to NATCA. https://t.co/5CP8w7vLoa pic.twitter.com/0pENZolExX
— NATCA (@NATCA) May 20, 2022National Association of Letter Carriers:
Join us for a 🌺 Hawaiian Night to Remember 🌺 to support @MDAorg on Monday, Aug. 8 from 7-10 p.m. in Chicago at NALC’s 72nd biennial convention. Only 1,500 tickets are available for $100 each! All proceeds go towards MDA. Register now! #DeliverTheCure https://t.co/N30FsH5OK8 pic.twitter.com/C4B8TYNYbP
— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) May 19, 2022National Domestic Workers Alliance:
We're out here with workers, advocates, and our members to demand Congress pass a #DomesticWorkerBillofRights that will protect domestic workers and give them the dignity and respect they deserve! pic.twitter.com/UQWnieWxsq
— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) May 11, 2022National Federation of Federal Employees:
Today's NFFE e-News: FLRA Confirmation of Former NFFE Gen. Counsel Susan Grundmann, Congressional Appeals for Wildland Firefighters, Organizing Donation Program, and more. https://t.co/QresKkmKfq pic.twitter.com/JHZ0ZeBJJI
— NFFE (@NFFE_Union) May 13, 2022National Nurses United:
If we stack multiple Covid-19 preventions together, we can prevent the virus from passing. These are some of the cheese slices we need:
🧀 Vaccines
🧀 Masking
🧀 Testing
🧀 Contract Tracing
🧀 Optimal PPE and more. pic.twitter.com/IQNSpKvbyy
NWSL Players Association:
Historic things we like to see on a Wednesday! Congrats @USWNTPlayers and @ussoccerplayers https://t.co/U0kjK69tL7
— NWSLPA (@nwsl_players) May 18, 2022NFL Players Association:
About time. Congratulations to the @USWNTPlayers 👏👏 @OneTeamPartners https://t.co/lZJGo6tweJ
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) May 18, 2022North America's Building Trades Unions:
With temperatures on the rise as we head toward the summer, it’s important that outdoor workers prepare for excessive heat on the job.
Check out some tips from @CPWR! https://t.co/6GfeGThjhT
Office and Professional Employees:
The blood crisis is being exacerbated by the @RedCross’s overworking and treatment of its essential staff. A coalition of unions, including OPEIU, are fighting for a fair contract that meaningfully addresses staffing issues to keep staff AND donors safe. https://t.co/uHh9R4ncOx
— OPEIU (@OPEIU) May 19, 2022Painters and Allied Trades:
PPG's CEO makes 354x more than the average PPG employee.
Enough is enough! Our union is drawing a line in the sand to demand change at PPG once and for all.
We can and will win fair wages at PPG and transform our industry so it finally works for all of us. pic.twitter.com/rPJEJwinTN
Plasterers and Cement Masons:
We are proud to share this video of the making and placing of the OPCMIA’s Statue located at the International Headquarters.https://t.co/92ayqdElLd
— OPCMIA International (@opcmiaintl) May 16, 2022Pride At Work:
Join us at NYC City Hall on 6/2 to kick off the Pride at Work Initiative to recruit and place LGBTQ+ Workers in good Union jobs! @CentralLaborNYC @TheIronworkers @NEAToday @AFLCIO @nycupandout @LGBTCenterNYC @nyc @andymbowen pic.twitter.com/MvR6JmwHmz
— Pride at Work (@PrideatWork) May 16, 2022Professional Aviation Safety Specialists:
Learn more about the critical work PASS members do in Maine to support union rights & aviation safety! Thanks @MEAFLCIO for highlighting their public service & how important FAA is in the state @MEBAUNION @FAA_Billy #aviationsafety #unionsolidarityhttps://t.co/WezpTf1xnC
— PASS (@PASSNational) May 13, 2022Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:
Last night, @RWDSU Local 670, @Local338, and @Local_1102 joined with @UFCW Region 1, @UFCW1500, @UFCW342, and @UFCW888 to support our union sister @Nikki4Congress! Thanks for fighting for working families in Illinois. Let's turn #IL13 blue! pic.twitter.com/2yjDZoyQXf
— RWDSU (@RWDSU) May 20, 2022Roofers and Waterproofers:
Working with a nail gun? Choose the safest trigger option – a full sequential trigger. It can prevent serious, even fatal, injuries. For more tips on using nail guns safely, visit: https://t.co/Qfr058KF2U #roofersafety365 pic.twitter.com/JbIOC5pSlR
— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) May 18, 2022SAG-AFTRA:
From hip-hop news and an exclusive interview with SAG Award-honoree @TroyKotsur, to the union’s latest work in entertainment and media, the digital issue of SAG-AFTRA magazine has all you need to stay in-the-know. https://t.co/sAGCuCznrt?#sagaftramember pic.twitter.com/PqfwOGbDMo
— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) May 19, 2022Seafarers:
U.S. Merchant Marine of WWII was honored with presentation of the Congressional Gold Medal. SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez (second from right) represented the union at the incredible ceremony.
More than 1,200 SIU members made the ultimate sacrifice during the war. #1u #WWII pic.twitter.com/wirRXuqRS5
Solidarity Center:
Ending investment in #Myanmar is exactly what is needed and is the action that #Myanmar union leaders and workers are calling for! #WhatsHappeningInMyanmar https://t.co/LmnjliMAB1
— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) May 18, 2022The NewsGuild-CWA:
Unionizing journalists helps preserve newsrooms https://t.co/NpPW3wOH54 via @undefined
— NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) May 19, 2022Theatrical Stage Employees:
https://t.co/9LyvG83Tsj pic.twitter.com/BqaexD9I7T
— IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) May 19, 2022Transport Workers Union:
.@JetBlue management is grossly incompetent. Passengers are suffering, workers are suffering, all while the money keeps rolling in for their smug executives. @aflcio @petebuttigieg https://t.co/HahWVBjFLT
— TWU (@transportworker) May 19, 2022Transportation Trades Department:
WATCH: @TTDAFLCIO Secretary Treasurer Shari Semelsberger joined the @RickSmithShow to discuss @ATULocal689's recent strike & the path forward for workers organizing across the country.
PSA: "The path forward is union." ✊ #unionYES #1u https://t.co/UlNkgtgDdm
UAW:
Day 3 - National CAP Conference was busy from start to end. Elected officials joining delegates at regional breakfasts, Nat. Veterans Advisory Council discussing issues affecting members that served in the military and delegates going to The Hill. #UAWCAP https://t.co/KpovpzbaSJ
— UAW (@UAW) May 18, 2022Union Label and Service Trades Department:
A touring musician who wanted to keep track of which Starbucks are Union. "I don’t work at Starbucks and I don’t work for the Union, but I drink a lot of coffee and I believe in the universal right to collective bargaining." https://t.co/o2zSWpfzQo
— Union Label Dept. (@ULSTD_AFLCIO) May 17, 2022UNITE HERE:
Senate cafeteria workers are ON THE MOVE! #WorkersCantWait https://t.co/eSCdCFAkwm
— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) May 20, 2022United Food and Commercial Workers:
#UFCWVictory ✊🏿✊🏻✊🏽✊🏾
ICYMI: Workers at Crossroads Trading Company consignment shop in Seattle, WA, voted unanimously to join @UFCW_3000.
Workers were determined to unionize and now look forward to negotiating their first union contract! https://t.co/gizFNoZETj pic.twitter.com/yte2mg3Puc
United Steelworkers:
United Steelworkers
Ground breaking legislation for garment workers in the US | IndustriALL https://t.co/etHopyMczb
United Students Against Sweatshops:
Kyaw San Oo, one of the workers at the center of USAS’s current wage theft campaign against Nike, has shared about his experience in the full video you can watch at https://t.co/nppGy6WEJf.
Visit (https://t.co/MzPFmZIGZh) to check out more information and to spread the word! pic.twitter.com/sFhJ3eIfyh
Utility Workers:
From the very first days of our nation’s industrialization to today, utility workers have faced live wires, leaking gas lines, gushing water & other dangers. Peer-to-peer safety committees empower rank-and-file UWUA members to own their safety. Learn more: https://t.co/6J31kj6Gaa pic.twitter.com/OgQDEvp8w5
— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) May 19, 2022Working America:
Unions are the only way workers can secure rights in an economy driven by corporate greed. Working people deserve the right to unionize! #Unionbustingisdisgusting! https://t.co/zpJrTqRmjZ
— Working America | Pass the #PROAct (@WorkingAmerica) May 16, 2022Writers Guild of America, East:
The WGA East and @WGAWest ratified a new three-year collective bargaining agreement covering 260 newswriters, producers, graphic artists, desk associates, and others at #CBSNews in New York, Chicago, Washington D.C., and Los Angeles. #1u https://t.co/MK9sCOV9vI
— Writers Guild of America, East / #PROAct (@WGAEast) May 17, 2022 Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 05/20/2022 - 11:52Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month Profiles: Leimomi Martin
For Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month this year, the AFL-CIO is spotlighting various Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders who have worked and continue to work at the intersection of civil and labor rights in the United States. Today's profile is Leimomi Martin of AFSCME.
Leimomi Martin works as an office assistant for the state of Alaska's Department of Health and Social Services. First hired by the state in 1997, she has served as a Juneau chapter steward and later as the chapter's chief steward for several years. Martin comes from generations of union members and organizers, including her Japanese grandfather who was a cook and camp representative at an internment camp during World War II. Her mother was a union steward at commercial fisheries in southeastern Alaska. Her native heritage includes Tlingit roots.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 05/20/2022 - 10:00
