Take a Stand for What We Deserve: 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:
In December of 1939, Butterfly McQueen became the first Black lifetime member of Equity. This rare membership is assigned to members for extraordinary volunteerism and involvement in our union. #BlackHistoryMonth pic.twitter.com/eAZcVXhNT6
— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) February 11, 2021AFGE:
@POTUS promised to be the most 'pro-union president', and within his first three weeks in office he has already restored many vital protections for 2.1 million federal workers across the country. #1u pic.twitter.com/yT3EqTbEbP
— AFGE (@AFGENational) February 10, 2021AFSCME:
“You don’t get things done just by going to management or HR... We as workers need to take a stand for what we deserve.” – Jenny Suarez, a respiratory therapist at University of California, Irvine’s, Medical Center, and a member of @AFSCMELocal3299. https://t.co/cZ6e5ktC6l
— AFSCME (@AFSCME) February 10, 2021Alliance for Retired Americans:
Only 5.4% of all COVID vaccine doses administered in U.S. went to long-term care facility residents: https://t.co/AUUWdgZQsH
— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) February 9, 2021Amalgamated Transit Union:
An ATU hero at Local 1385-Dayton, OH. https://t.co/wHHSRcwBzg #1u #RTA #PublicTransit #Transit
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) February 11, 2021American Federation of Musicians:
The #SuperBowl entertainment, featuring @ericchurch and @jsullivanmusic singing the #NationalAnthem and @HERMusicx singing #americathebeautiful, is covered by @afm_union contract. #PepsiHalftime with @theweeknd and backup singers is covered by @sagaftra. TY to all #unionmembers? pic.twitter.com/72kihtvUst
— AFM (@The_AFM) February 7, 2021American Federation of Teachers:
"We need to meet fear with facts, and we need to get vaccinations into poeple's arms - teacher's arms, other educators's arms - as quickly as possible, to have another layer of protection."
ICYMI: @rweingarten talked to CNN about what it will take to #ReopenSafely. pic.twitter.com/apKHqLojHg
American Postal Workers Union:
There's one boss who we all love. #brucespringsteen #SuperBowl pic.twitter.com/zF11JIavNG
— APWU National (@APWUnational) February 8, 2021Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance:
#GeneralStrike #Burma This is what labor solidarity looks like! https://t.co/Wd0BNfIyQ6
— Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance, AFL-CIO (@APALAnational) February 9, 2021Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:
Aviation is critical for vaccine distribution & essential frontline aviation workers need priority vaccination. We will continue to update this page for aviation workers to find your current state vaccine priority & resources to register for the vaccine. https://t.co/rssh23JmBZ
— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) February 10, 2021Boilermakers:
Stronger unions mean:
higher wages ✔️
safer working conditions ✔️
dignity for all people who work ✔️
Passing the PRO Act will be the first step in getting there. Find our toolkit w/ graphics, info, sample messages and more at ➡️ https://t.co/qCBTPAOZxm #BoilermakersUnion pic.twitter.com/7hYj2Cgvz4
Coalition of Black Trade Unionists:
CBTU is thrilled to congratulate our sister Clayola Brown, on her appointment as the AFL-CIO’s new Civil, Human and Women’s Rights Director. Clay’s stellar career has prepared her for this challenge, and she will be a fierce champion of equity. Congrats sister! @APRI_National pic.twitter.com/8HYLqAuhWJ
— CBTU (@CBTU72) February 3, 2021Communications Workers of America:
Scabby is an ICON. https://t.co/QrCnliHxSm
— CWA (@CWAUnion) February 11, 2021Department for Professional Employees:
“The importance of this vote transcends this one facility. Amazon is transforming industry after industry, and, especially given its size, is determining what the future of work will look like.” - @RWDSU President @sappelbaum #1u https://t.co/GEqaIpaCwL
— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) February 11, 2021Electrical Workers:
Carbon capture, energy storage, wind, solar and advanced nuclear technologies are all winners in a recent Congressional spending bill. And that means energy jobs, now and into the future. https://t.co/iNlCjYnbcb
— IBEW (@IBEW) February 11, 2021Fire Fighters:
Three Local 1664 members talk about the effects our profession can have on the minds & well-being of fire fighters. From long ago calls that stir emotion to full blown PTSD, it can impact people differently. @IAFFNewsDesk @mcfrsPIO https://t.co/w6QFhWuHHc
— IAFF Local 1664 (@IAFFLocal1664) February 11, 2021Heat and Frost Insulators:
Thank you Local 34 Sister Hartse for sharing these great pictures! And congratulations on working at your first brewery -- you did a great job! ??? pic.twitter.com/dsKsYPG9m3
— Insulators Union ? (@InsulatorsUnion) February 11, 2021International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers:
We stand with, @RWDSU/@BAmazonUnion and @ACLUStaffUnited as they fight for their unions! #SolidarityForGood https://t.co/YQVuL3AEdL
— IFPTE (@IFPTE) February 6, 2021Ironworkers:
The House of Representatives has approved legislation that seeks to expand apprenticeship programs to train workers in a range of industries, including construction, and authorizes $3 billion over five years to achieve that goal. https://t.co/umIvHSwhKW
— Ironworkers. (@TheIronworkers) February 9, 2021IUE-CWA:
This fight is not just for the 80 jobs already on the chopping block. If our LED product line leaves, it is just a matter of time before the whole plant shuts down." - Will Evans, IUE-CWA Local 84704 Pres.
Sign the petition to save jobs: https://t.co/mFEzNNgS4t pic.twitter.com/vdr48bsa4i
Jobs With Justice:
Tyson refused to increase #COVID19 protections for workers, despite raking-in billions. Now, 39 are dead.@Vanguard_Group, @blackrock & @TRowePrice -- will you hold @TysonFoods accountable? Or is your "socially responsible investing" line just PR fluff?https://t.co/Cm5j2v9Oqy
— Jobs With Justice (@jwjnational) February 11, 2021Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:
Ongoing human rights violations, including slavery, in #Mauritania make safe return impossible. #TPS was created to protect people from deportation to countries where their lives or freedom would be at risk and @DHSgov must designate for 18 months now! #Act4BlackImms
— LCLAA (@LCLAA) February 10, 2021Laborers:
#RightToWorkIsWrong https://t.co/t2K2ytk3mL
— LIUNA (@LIUNA) February 10, 2021Machinists:
Protecting aerospace and defense jobs has brought labor and industry together to fully support this critical workforce @AIAspeaks. https://t.co/3fCg9n4Txn
— Machinists Union ✈️?? (@MachinistsUnion) February 11, 2021Metal Trades Department:
On the 11th day of #Blackhistorymonth Elizabeth Powell, Secretary-Treasurer of the APWU. Powell is the first woman in the position. In 2019 she was awarded the Coalition’s Addie Wyatt Award and the Shirley Chisholm Breakthrough Leader Award in 2020. Thank you for your dedication. pic.twitter.com/U8uhHRmUQO
— Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) February 11, 2021Mine Workers:
"The United Mine Workers of America is backing the bill, writing: “Without an industry-wide, enforceable standard, miners are left to the whims of coal operators regarding protective measures that are employed at the mine to limit exposure to the virus.”https://t.co/chEQTv2enb
— United Mine Workers (@MineWorkers) February 11, 2021Musical Artists:
Today AGMA begins negotiations with the Met. Changes at the Met can influence the way opera is produced, rehearsed, and performed throughout the entire industry, across the globe. This is a fight for ALL Artists. Read full statement: https://t.co/ZGWXbqmBJN pic.twitter.com/xi2sXCkCe0
— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) February 8, 2021National Air Traffic Controllers Association:
— NATCA (@NATCA) February 10, 2021National Association of Letter Carriers:
Nalcrest is winter-ready! Residents of Nalcrest created ice sculptures of a swan, llama and snowman for their winter decorations. Nalcrest is a union-made retirement community for our members. #1u #Florida pic.twitter.com/BQ7w8jrW0C
— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) February 11, 2021National Day Laborer Organizing Network:
Our statement on the disgraceful Senate votarama: “Yesterday’s vote was a signal that Trumpism did not end on Jan 20th, and it was a reminder to those of us who experience anti-immigrant racism that we cannot be complacent in the days ahead” (cont…) https://t.co/q8tgfKcgwS
— NDLON (@NDLON) February 5, 2021National Domestic Workers Alliance:
“It’s really sad … in my experience, the business model is based on wage theft—how to cut corners,” says NDWA attorney Rocío Avila. https://t.co/Qdrm3WW1V1
— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) February 11, 2021National Federation of Federal Employees:
The #COVID leave provisions in the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA), helped to prevent more than 15,000 cases per day nationwide during the pandemic last year. https://t.co/9V6albeK4H
— NFFE (@NFFE_Union) February 10, 2021National Nurses United:
“We see it as much of a civil-rights battle as a labor battle.” - @RWDSU President Stuart Appelbaum
Nurses stand in solidarity with the courageous Amazon workers in Alabama organizing — and voting— #UnionYes!#BAmazonUnionhttps://t.co/tGvlfYyhvf
National Taxi Workers Alliance:
Cabbies have taken the Brooklyn Bridge and are sending an SOS to Congress for help with medallion debt relief. pic.twitter.com/he43GUirG9
— NY Taxi Workers (@NYTWA) February 10, 2021NFL Players Association:
Also joining us at the #AthleteAnd Workshop next week is Acho brothers @TheSamAcho + @EmmanuelAcho to talk about how players can leverage their power for good. pic.twitter.com/MV59fighLU
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) February 11, 2021North America's Building Trades Unions:
NABTU is pleased to announce the unanimous decision by our Governing Board of Presidents to provide our over 5,000 union halls and training centers as injection sites for public distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine.
?: https://t.co/00cbwVKObP pic.twitter.com/zxQTttKIsH
Office and Professional Employees:
✍️✍️✍️https://t.co/REZxvjcjk9
— OPEIU #PassThePROAct ✊ (@OPEIU) February 10, 2021Painters and Allied Trades:
54% of American workers say they're threatened with job loss if they vote to unionize.
40% of the time during union elections, employers break the law.
20% of workers who engage in union organizing are fired.
This is why we need labor law reform. This is why we need the PRO Act. pic.twitter.com/8kviDEs02i
Plasterers and Cement Masons:
Our proud member Liz “Knuckles” Nichols of Local 555 is on @ToughAsNailsCBS premiering tonight. On behalf of our Steel Edge Women and all your #OPCMIA brothers and sisters, we are cheering for you, Liz! https://t.co/Tq9O5KP6Ji
— OPCMIA International (@opcmiaintl) February 10, 2021Professional Aviation Safety Specialists:
PASS thanks @TransportDems for hearing today giving voice to frontline transportation workers. PASS also thanks leaders @RepPeterDeFazio & @RepSamGraves for support of these essential workers. Our union brothers & sisters need assistance now. #COVIDTransportationStories #1u https://t.co/Yac1KgB3S6
— PASS (@PASSNational) February 4, 2021Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:
“It’s significant that it’s a movement of primarily Black workers & women—the workers that have been most impacted by the pandemic." The #BlackLivesMatter movement inspired #BAmazonUnion workers to fight for the dignity and respect they deserve. #UnionYeshttps://t.co/wGS6mrJKnZ
— RWDSU (@RWDSU) February 11, 2021SAG-AFTRA:
Tales of the Windy City! With the production trifecta of Chicago P.D./Med/Fire, #sagaftramembers can get an insider's view about the many hats performers wear to thrive in a local market. Watch live now! https://t.co/1cb8yxIW4n
— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) February 11, 2021School Administrators:
We especially know Cardona's experience as a principal provides him the greatest understanding of what school leaders need to create, implement and enhance the proper school learning environment for all children to learn and grow academically and personally. @CNN @MSNBC @FoxNews
— The School Leader (@AFSAUnion) February 8, 2021Seafarers:
Biden to Free Up Billions in Delayed Puerto Rico Storm Aid https://t.co/uhJe7qXS9L
— Seafarers Union (@SeafarersUnion) February 4, 2021Solidarity Center:
A 14-yr old girl was among 28 garment workers killed in a factory disaster in #Morocco. The factory operated illegally. “Where were the local govt authorities? Where were the investors?” asked Amal El Amri, a rep in Parliament & union member. @cleanclotheshttps://t.co/ChxibFglko
— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) February 11, 2021The NewsGuild-CWA:
We are! https://t.co/uespeFZUml
— NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) February 10, 2021Theatrical Stage Employees:
Local 665 President Tuia’ana Scanlan’s shares his journey to IATSE and the call that spearheaded his life and career as a Stagehand. #IATSEDiversity
Read Scanlan's story here: https://t.co/00XFZrTuiR
Transport Workers Union:
TWU members continue to put their lives at risk to serve the public during #Covid19. As our economy struggles to recover, more jobs will be lost if we do not put pressure on Congress to act fast and save OUR jobs. Act fast & send a letter to Congress now!https://t.co/H8icWQJ2hR
— TWU (@transportworker) February 10, 2021Transportation Trades Department:
Amtrak workers like Katrina Coleman need:
? Job security
? A safe work environment
? Dedicated funding
? Unwavering employment protections #COVIDTransportationStories @TCUnionHQ pic.twitter.com/NklxQzmW6g
UAW:
Despite claims that the cost wage increases will be passed onto consumers, researchers found that a 10% increase in the minimum wage raised McDonald’s food prices by just 1.4%. https://t.co/Wj8lyb9p4G
— UAW (@UAW) February 10, 2021Union Veterans Council:
Many unions have successful programs that help connect veterans with federally registered apprenticeship programs. Through greater public investment in these programs, @POTUS is working to connect veterans with good careers for life. #BuildBackBetter #1u https://t.co/Je9D0pu8EH
— Union Veterans Council (@unionveterans) February 10, 2021UNITE HERE:
STATEMENT from UNITE HERE President @DTaylorUH on the re-introduction of the 'Worker Health Coverage Protection Act" by @SenatorDurbin & @SenCortezMasto.
“We need 100% emergency COBRA coverage now. 80% of our workers are out of work, out of health insurance, out of money.” pic.twitter.com/6jEWsrbX1I
United Food and Commercial Workers:
#EssentialWorkers are still bravely stepping up to keep our communities fed during #COVID19. Now more than ever, we need to have their back!
Stand with customers around the country to support hazard pay for #EssentialWorkers. #1u
⬇️ ⬇️
United Steelworkers:
Texas Regulators Consider Tougher Rules for Above-Ground Chemical Storage Tanks https://t.co/7fnVzjlXNv #USWUnity
— United Steelworkers (@steelworkers) February 11, 2021Utility Workers:
We're celebrating #BlackHistoryMonth by highlighting the work of our members towards equality and racial justice in the workplace!
Have a union sister or brother who deserves to be highlighted for their work? Email webmaster@uwua.net pic.twitter.com/tnESgeW7q3
Working America:
✉️ Take Action to save our USPS! ✉️
Join the call for a USPS Board of Governors that wants to continue Benjamin Franklin's vision for a fair, affordable postal system that ensures every person has the freedom to communicate, regardless of ZIP code! #1u https://t.co/7gmbfaqf9W
Writers Guild of America, East:
"The 3-year contract includes a $5k increase to the salary floor, converts remote contractors to full-time employees, renews a $15k annual commitment to address equity & inclusion issues, & establishes Juneteenth as a work holiday." @OnionIncUnion #1u https://t.co/7Tt4xNVgUA
— Writers Guild of America, East (@WGAEast) February 10, 2021 Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 02/12/2021 - 12:01Black History Month Profiles: Rayneese Primrose
This year, for Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only the conditions for working people in our community, but also across the country. Today's profile is Rayneese Primrose.
In August 2020, artist Rayneese Primrose, a member of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 764, discovered that her Lady Liberty artwork was selected by the Rockefeller Center as part of the Flag Project, in which artists designed flags that fly high from the iconic flagpoles surrounding the Rink at Rockefeller Center. Inspired by the Statue of Liberty and influenced by Maya Angelou’s poem "Still I Rise," Primrose said she reimagined the Statue of Liberty as a symbol that truly represents everyone.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 02/12/2021 - 09:32Tags: Black History Month
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: St. Paul Labor Federation Distributes Food to Community
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 St. Paul Building and Construction Trades Council, in partnership with the St. Paul Regional Labor Federation, hosted a free-food distribution event on Feb. 3. Volunteers loaded up 30-pound boxes of food and made them available to anyone in need, free of charge. The operation, which was a contactless, drive-through operation, provided hundreds of boxes of food to people in the community of St. Paul, Minnesota.
Last week, union members volunteered to distribute 117,000 pounds of food to families in the area, with several distribution events scheduled.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 02/12/2021 - 08:03Tags: COVID-19, Community Service
Pathway to Progress: Baltimore Caulkers Take Charge of Their Own Future
History has long been portrayed as a series of "great men" taking great action to shape the world we live in. In recent decades, however, social historians have focused more on looking at history "from the bottom up," studying the vital role that working people played in our heritage. Working people built, and continue to build, the United States. In our new series, Pathway to Progress, we'll take a look at various people, places and events where working people played a key role in the progress our country has made, including those who are making history right now. Today's topic is the story of Baltimore caulkers who bought their own shipyard in the face of systemic discrimination.
Pro-slavery forces before the Civil War often used racist appeals to labor in their efforts to sway public opinion. They fear-mongered that freed Black workers would undercut White workers in the labor force and would cost jobs and drive down wages. Free Black workers, before and after the war, were often used as scabs, and they couldn't refuse the offer, as other work options were limited or non-existent.
As a response, Black workers began forming their own labor associations. Among the first formed was by caulkers in Baltimore in the early days of the Reconstruction Era. Before the war, White caulkers used violence and intimidation to scare Black caulkers out of the trade. The violence continued after the war, and in October the White caulkers, supported by ship carpenters, went on strike to get Black workers fired as caulkers and longshoremen. The strike was successful with the support of city government and local police. More than 100 men found themselves out of work.
One of those men, Isaac Myers (pictured) proposed that they form a union and raise funds to purchase their own cooperative shipyard and railway. The campaign began and they issued stock that quickly raised $10,000 from the Black population of Baltimore and beyond. One of the first stockholders was Frederick Douglass. They secured a $30,000 loan from a ship captain and were able to buy an extensive shipyard and railway and founded the Chesapeake Marine Railway and Dry Dock Company in 1866.
They soon employed 300 Black workers and paid them an average wage of $3 a day. They were able to win several government contracts, and they paid off the debt from the loan early. The shipyard expanded and soon they were hiring White workers, too. The Colored Caulkers' Trade Union Society of Baltimore was a success under the leadership of Isaac Myers, who was elected president. He established relations with the White caulkers union and the two groups began to work together to address common problems.
The model used by the caulkers worked well in the North, but raising similar funds in the South was much more difficult. But they still took inspiration from the Baltimore success and began to organize and strike, leading to some of the largest mass demonstrations in the history of the South. Some had success and a growth of Black entrepreneurship was an outgrowth of the Baltimore caulkers' efforts as was the fact that the Black working class had now joined the labor movement.
Source: "Organized Labor and the Black Worker, 1619-1981" by Philip S. Foner, 1974.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 02/11/2021 - 12:07Tags: Organizing, Pathway to Progress
Black History Month Profiles: C. Faye Harper
This year, for Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only the conditions for working people in our community, but also across the country. Today's profile is C. Faye Harper.
C. Faye Harper currently serves as the 10th international vice president for the Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE). She also serves as a trustee and business representative for IATSE Local 834. She has been with the union for nearly 30 years. She said her activism was driven by never having seen a person of color on the IATSE General Executive Board. "As a leader, it’s necessary that someone of color see that there is representation and somebody represents who they are," Harper said. In 2016, Harper was elected to the General Executive Board, becoming the change she wanted to see in the world.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 02/11/2021 - 08:37Service + Solidarity Spotlight: FLOC Hosts Vaccination Clinics
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 Farm Labor Organizing Committee (FLOC) is working to ensure Black and Brown communities in Toledo, Ohio, have access to the vaccine. The union held its first vaccination clinic, where 30 members of the community who are older than 75 or have underlying health conditions received their first shot. FLOC held another vaccination event this past Friday. “We’re succeeding in getting health officials to re-think distribution to reach Latinos and Black folks who are having the highest mortality rates,” said FLOC President Baldemar Velasquez (not pictured). Throughout the pandemic, communities of color have experienced much higher rates of mortality from COVID-19.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 02/11/2021 - 08:36Working People Call for Urgent Passage of Landmark Worker Rights Bill
"Today, working people are one step closer to freely exercising our most fundamental rights on the job," said AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka (UMWA). "The PRO Act will strengthen workers’ ability to come together and demand a fair share of the wealth we create—boosting wages, securing better health care and rooting out discrimination."
Trumka continued:
The past year has laid bare the enormous injustices facing millions of America’s working people who keep our country afloat. We cannot allow those systemic failures to persist for another moment. Working people turned out to vote in record numbers because we urgently need structural change.
We will make our case in every state and every congressional district, to elected leaders across the political spectrum. But make no mistake, this is a test for Democrats. After decades of disappointment, it’s time for the party of FDR to finish what he started. If you stand on the side of America’s workers, you won’t just vote for the PRO Act—you’ll sponsor it, you’ll whip for it and you won’t rest until it’s signed into law.
Advocates for working people across the country also called for the passage of the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act. Here are their statements:
Alaska State AFL-CIO President Vince Beltrami (IBEW):
As the sun sets on my career in the labor movement I can think of no better gift to the American worker than to see the PRO Act become law. Since the egregious Taft-Hartley Act of 1947, moneyed interests have continued to whittle away protections for workers in the workplace. The PRO Act provides the first real substantive means to restore the original intent of the National Labor Relations Act. Organizing and empowerment of workers will once again bring opportunity and prosperity to the forefront. With a president committed to making this the law of the land, and a Congress that can finally make this happen, we cannot relent until the PRO Act lands on President Biden’s desk and dignity and fairness is restored in workplaces across America, while eliminating Jim Crow era policies like “right-to-work” across the country in the process.
California Labor Federation Executive Secretary-Treasurer Art Pulaski (IAM):
With the Introduction of the Protecting the Right to Organize Act (PRO) Act, federal lawmakers today set a course to revitalize America’s economy by reclaiming the rights of millions of workers to stand together and negotiate a fairer deal with their employers. The wealthy and powerful have controlled the economy in their favor for too long while working people have been losing ground. For decades we have had to work much harder, put in longer hours and take on more jobs just to try to keep up. At the same time, the rich and powerful got much, much richer off the fruits of our labor. This landmark bill is crucial to the future of California’s economy. When super-wealthy gig corporations spent almost a quarter-of-a-billion dollars to pass Prop 22 last year, hundreds of thousands of Californians instantly lost their hopes for a decent job. By that one act, employers like Uber, Lyft, DoorDash and others crushed the right of their employees to stand together for a fair wage. The PRO Act would simply reestablish the rights of gig workers and many others to create a union for themselves in order to negotiate for decent wages and employee protections. In addition to cracking down on the misclassification of workers, which eliminates basic protections of law, the PRO Act would stop pernicious corporate tactics that crush any attempts by the workforce to organize. By creating new pathways for workers to stand together on the job, the PRO Act strikes at the heart of growing income inequality that especially threatens women, immigrants and people of color. Billionaire CEOs are already marshalling their resources to fight the PRO Act in an effort to retain the status quo that has allowed them to grossly expand their fortunes at the expense of working people. To combat their big-money campaign, working people in California and across the nation will mobilize in a big way to ensure lawmakers are hearing the voices of those whose lives would be improved by having a union on the job. We call on every member of the California Congressional delegation, Democrat and Republican to co-sponsor this historic legislation to reform outdated labor laws that work against those most vulnerable in our economy. The PRO Act charts a new course for California and America. A course that puts working people at the helm of the ship with the freedom to control their own destinies. We strongly urge Congress to pass this groundbreaking bill and for President Biden to live up to his promise to working people by signing it into law.
Colorado AFL-CIO:
The Colorado AFL-CIO, our affiliates, and our members made up of teachers, nurses, grocery workers, firefighters and more commend our new congress elected by working families for introducing the PRO Act today. Every Colorado Democrat in the House of Representatives signed on as co-sponsor. Make no mistake, every congress member who commits to passing the PRO Act has made a commitment to build back our communities and jobs better—and with a union that keeps workers returning home safely after a hard day’s work. The PRO Act will have an immediate positive effect for working people in Colorado. This important step forward ensures fairness and a voice on the job. The PRO Act puts the power back in the hands of working people by increasing access to fair union elections and by ensuring there are enforceable penalties for corporations and executives that violate workers’ rights. For too long, union busting law firms have helped corporations avoid responsibility and game the system. Workers are taking collective action and it is past time for our labor laws to catch up. The PRO Act will support the AFL-CIO’s Five Economic Essentials including expanding public investment in good jobs, ensuring workers’ access to necessary safety support to do their jobs, help address the structural racial equity issues in America, and ensure working Coloradans have the economic security they deserve. Currently, hard working Coloradans seeking to join together with coworkers can face retaliation with little recourse. 65% of American's approve of labor unions. 60 million people would vote to join a union at their workplace today if given the opportunity, according to a study by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Connecticut AFL-CIO President Sal Luciano (AFSCME):
Our nation is in desperate need of labor law reform. Too often, the deck is stacked against working people who are trying to join together in union for safer working conditions and wages that can sustain their families. The pandemic has exposed and exacerbated the vast inequalities that have always existed in our state and in our country. But we have an opportunity to improve the lives of workers across the United States. The PRO Act will be one of the most important pieces of legislation for working people in a generation. It will not only increase worker power at a time when it’s sorely needed, it will help to ensure that our economic recovery is shared by all, not just the wealthy few.
Florida AFL-CIO President Mike Williams (IBEW):
Last week, the PRO Act was reintroduced into the United States House of Representatives. If passed, this bill would be a step in the right direction for America’s working people and would empower workers to exercise their right to organize freely. For decades, union-busting laws have prevented working people from having a voice in the workplace. The PRO Act is the most significant piece of proworker legislation since the New Deal. It would fight back against years of increasing inequality and reform labor laws that too often favor employers over working people. According to a recent Gallup poll, support for unions is at its highest level in almost two decades. Unfortunately, workers who try to unionize are met with tactics meant to sink any chance of their formation. If enacted, the PRO Act would reform and strengthen the National Labor Relations Board, end so-called “right to work” laws, and end the process of replacing striking employees. The COVID-19 pandemic, and the subsequent economic downturn that followed, has made the importance of representation in the workplace even clearer. Unions fight for safety on the job, solidarity between employees, and higher standards of living. For too long, employers have had the power to prevent working people from joining and forming unions. The PRO Act would put the decision to unionize back in control of working people. The Florida AFL-CIO calls on our elected officials in both the United States House of Representatives and Senate to make the right choice for America’s working families. It’s time to pass the PRO Act. Mike Williams is the President of the Florida AFL-CIO which represents over one million union members, retirees and their families in the state of Florida.
Hawaii State AFL-CIO President Randy Perreira (AFSCME):
The PRO Act is more than labor law reform legislation. It is a civil rights bill package that is a crucial step towards restoring workers’ rights that have been significantly eroding for decades. This decades-long erosion of workers’ rights is evidenced by stagnant wages, unsafe workplaces, and rising inequality...issues that union membership mitigates. Economist Henry Farber said, “When unions were strong, inequality tended to be lower.” According to a 2018 study by Farber and other Princeton Economists, over the past 80 years, unions have consistently provided workers with wages 10% to 20% higher than their non-union counterparts. With the passage of the PRO Act, labor unions will have the impetus to organize workers without employers interfering and even frustrating the process. Workers will have a stronger voice and more bargaining power. Like a rising tide raises all boats, organized workforces can further expand opportunities for all workers, especially women, immigrants, people of color, and the LGBTQ community. Reach out to your U.S. Congressional Representatives and U.S. Senators to let them know that you too support the PRO Act.
Idaho AFL-CIO President Joe Maloney (IBEW):
The Idaho AFL-CIO representing teachers, postal workers, federal government employees, and more support the introduction of the PRO Act in the U.S. Senate and House. The PRO (Protecting the Right to Organize) Act is significant legislation that will make a positive impact on all American Workers from making it easier to have a voice on the job to dramatically increasing penalties for employers that violate workers’ rights. In Idaho, inequality has skyrocketed because union membership has dwindled and policymakers have failed to pass pro-worker labor laws. Now it is time to Idaho’s congress members to right that wrong by supporting the PRO Act. Idaho’s working families look forward to the passage of the PRO Act. It’s about time we stand up to the corporate bosses continuing to engage in unfair and underhanded practices that undermine workers. Workers have a historic right to organize themselves and it is our duty to protect it. Idaho’s workers deserve to earn better wages and build safer, fairer workplaces for themselves.
Illinois AFL-CIO President Tim Drea (UFCW) and Secretary-Treasurer Pat Devaney (IAFF):
Our labor laws are there to protect workers. They have become woefully outdated, weakened by corporate political influence, and so riddled with loopholes providing little protection for workers seeking to improve their lot by joining with their co-workers and speaking as one with a union. The COVID-19 pandemic has further exposed the failings of our laws to provide workers safety and security. The best way to insure the long-term economic health of our nation, rebuild our middle class, close the income inequality gap, as well as bridge racial and gender divides on the job is to give workers power to band together concerning their livelihoods. We will engage our member households in a campaign across the state to mobilize for passage in the House and Senate and getting President Biden’s signature.
Indiana AFL-CIO:
The PRO Act is the most substantial pro-worker legislation we’ve seen in generations. It would protect and empower Hoosier workers, making it easier to organize unions and collectively bargain for better pay, benefits, and working conditions. It would also repeal right-to-work laws across the country, including right here in Indiana,” said Indiana AFL-CIO President Brett Voorhies. Nearly a year ago, the House of Representatives passed the PRO Act, but then-Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell refused to bring the bill up for a vote in the Senate. With a new Democratic majority and President Biden’s promise to “be the most pro-union president you’ve ever seen,” working people expect to be a priority and will hold President Biden to his word.
Iowa Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO:
We are proud of our United States of America. The American dream is a value we hold dear and nothing shall impede us on that journey. One of the keys to that dream is dignity in the workplace. We deserve equity, respect, a safe working environment and a fair wage for a day's work. However, our woefully outdated labor laws are no longer effective as a means for working people to counter the power of corporate America. Its long past due for labor law reform. Across the political spectrum, people are coming to the realization, if they already had not, that the tables are tilted in favor of powerful corporations. The PRO Act will change the power dynamics in America and give working people a real say in your own future. Today, the PRO Act was introduced in the United States Congress. The PRO Act is the most significant worker empowerment legislation since the Great Depression because it will empower workers to exercise our freedom to organize, ensure that workers can reach a first contract, it will hold corporations accountable, and repeal Jim Crow era laws like “right to work,” which lead to lower wages, fewer benefits, and more dangerous workplaces. The PRO Act will make America’s economy work for working people. Here’s why: when union membership is greater, all of our wages are better. Between 1948 and 1973, when New Deal era laws expanded and enforced collective bargaining, hourly wages rose by more than 90%. But over the next 40 years—from 1973 to 2013—hourly wages rose by just over 9% while productivity increased 74%. As it is, workers are not getting paid a fair share of what we produce. Workers in America favor unions and tens of millions want to join one. Research from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology shows nearly 60 million people would vote to join a union today if given the opportunity. That is nearly half of nonunion workers. The PRO Act is how our laws catch up, with workers embracing collective action with a fervor not seen in generations. The PRO Act is the future, and the future is now.
Maine AFL-CIO:
"The PRO Act will empower workers to exercise our freedom to organize and bargain for a better life. It will give workers the tools to build an economy that works for all of us, not just those at the top,” said Cynthia Phinney, president of the Maine AFL-CIO. During this pandemic, as frontline workers across the country organize for better lives and safer workplaces, it is high time our labor laws encourage collective bargaining so we can build a better economic future for everyone.” “This is by far the strongest piece of labor legislation endorsed by a president in several decades. As a candidate, President Biden promised to sign the PRO Act and union members across the country intend to organize, mobilize and help him push this important bill across the finish line,” Phinney continued. “Currently, when workers want to form a union at work, they are forced to go through a complex and archaic process designed to allow employers to harass and intimidate workers who stand up for their rights at work. Most recently these unfair and egregious management practices have been on full display in the anti-union campaigns at Maine Medical Center and Portland Museum of Art." As several studies have shown, more unions means less income inequality. Between 1948 and 1973, when New Deal-era laws expanded and enforced collective bargaining, hourly wages rose by more than 90%. However, anti-union laws like the 1947 Taft-Hartley Act have made it extremely difficult to form unions, causing income inequality to skyrocket. From 1973 to 2013, hourly wages rose by just over 9% while productivity increased 74%. But in recent years, unions have become very popular with the public. Research from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology shows nearly 60 million people would vote to join today if given the opportunity. A recent Gallup survey found that union approval stands at 65%, one of the highest levels in a half-century. The PRO Act is more than labor law reform, it’s civil rights legislation. “A union contract is the single best tool we have to close racial and gender wage gaps, and to ensure dignity and due process for all workers,’ said Phinney. “Expanding collective bargaining will increase protections for women, people of color, immigrants and the LGBTQ community in areas where our laws are still falling short.” “Maine union members along with our brothers and sisters in other states organized, knocked on doors and made thousands of calls last year to elect a pro-worker trifecta in the House, Senate and White House to pass the PRO Act and other pro-worker legislation,” Phinney added. “Lawmakers gave us their word that the PRO Act would be a top priority. Now it is time for action.”
Michigan AFL-CIO:
Over the last several decades, inequality has skyrocketed as nearly every amendment to the National Labor Relations Act has made it more difficult for workers to form unions, and anti-worker judges have chipped away at what's left of our rights. "We have a generational opportunity to pass real labor law reform through this Congress that will protect the right to organize," said Ron Bieber, President of the Michigan AFL-CIO. "The House already passed the PRO Act last year, but it was blocked by the anti-worker Senate. Then working people gave us a mandate for change, with a majority in both houses of Congress and the White House. "Right now our country is at a historic inflection point. Over the last four decades, productivity has soared by 74%, but wages have increased by just 9%. Working folks are hurting from the pandemic, the recession, and historic racial and gender wage gaps, while corporations and the wealthy are doing better than ever before. It's time for our country to build back better, and that starts with protecting the right to organize." The PRO Act is the most significant worker empowerment legislation since the Great Depression. It will: 1. Empower workers to exercise our freedom to organize and bargain. 2. Ensure that workers can reach a first contract quickly after a union is recognized. 3. End employers' practice of retaliating against striking workers by hiring permanent replacements. 4. Hold corporations accountable by strengthening the National Labor Relations Board and allowing it to penalize employers who retaliate against working people in support of the union or collective bargaining. 5. Repeal "right to work" laws that lead to lower wages, fewer benefits and more dangerous workplaces. 6. Create pathways for workers to form unions in newer industries like Big Tech. As a candidate, President Biden pledged to sign the PRO Act into law. Lawmakers joined him in giving working people their word that the PRO Act would be a top priority. Since then, every Democrat in Michigan's Congressional delegation has signed on as a co-sponsor of the PRO Act. Now it is time for action.
Minnesota AFL-CIO President Bill McCarthy (UNITE HERE):
The pandemic has made it even clearer that working people in Minnesota and across the nation need the voice, equity, and security that comes with a union contract. The PRO Act will update our nation’s woefully antiquated labor laws to finally give workers the true freedom to negotiate a fair return on their work. The PRO Act would give real teeth to our labor laws by preventing employers from engaging in anti-union activity like firing or punishing workers for union activity and stalling on negotiating a first contract. It would finally repeal “right to work – the divisive and racist laws created during the Jim Crow era and passed in our neighboring states—that lead to lower wages, fewer benefits and more dangerous workplaces. Minnesota’s Labor Movement applauds Representatives Craig, McCollum, and Omar for co-sponsoring this groundbreaking and transformative legislation. The rest of Minnesota’s Congressional delegation can show they stand with working Minnesotans by signing on as PRO Act cosponsors.
Mississippi AFL-CIO President Robert Shaffer (IBB):
The Mississippi AFL-CIO stands in solidarity with our brothers and sisters across America as we call for the passage of the PRO Act by Congress. In a so-called “right to work” state, we have first-hand knowledge of the power wielded by profit mongers to keep working Mississippians from realizing the success they deserve. Our state is at the bottom of most quality of life measures, and that wasn’t achieved by accident. A century of suppressing workers’ rights and catering to corporate demands has yielded low pay and restricted benefits for workers. Our people deserve better, and we welcome the opportunity to fight for them with the power of the PRO Act supporting us. We thank President Trumka for his fight for all working people and look forward to seeing the PRO Act become a reality. It is time for American workers to reclaim their rightful place as the backbone of America.”
Missouri AFL-CIO:
The PRO Act motivated us this past election cycle to mobilize for a pro-worker trifecta in the U.S. House, Senate, and White House. Working families won a mandate and we call on Congress to pass the PRO Act to increase worker power, rebuild our economy fairly and grow Missouri’s labor movement. “Workers in America favor unions and tens of millions want to join one,” stated Missouri AFL-CIO President Jake Hummel. “Research shows that nearly 60 million people would vote to join a union today if given the opportunity. The PRO Act eliminates barriers and empowers workers to organize for a strong voice on the job in a union.” The PRO Act is the most significant worker empowerment legislation since the Great Depression because it will: 1. Empower workers to exercise our freedom to organize and bargain. 2. Ensure that workers can reach a first contract quickly after a union is recognized. 3. End employers’ practice of punishing striking workers by hiring permanent replacements. Speaking up for labor rights is within every worker’s rights—and workers shouldn’t lose our jobs for it. 4. Hold corporations accountable by strengthening the National Labor Relations Board and allowing it to penalize employers who retaliate against working people in support of the union or collective bargaining. 5. Repeal “right to work” laws—divisive and racist laws created during the Jim Crow era—that lead to lower wages, fewer benefits, and more dangerous workplaces. 6. Create pathways for workers to form unions, without fear, in newer industries like Big Tech. “65% of Americans approve of labor unions, one of the highest marks in a half-century,” stated Missouri AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Merri Berry. “Inequality has skyrocketed because union membership has dwindled and policymakers have failed to pass pro-worker labor laws. The PRO Act is a once in a generation labor law bill that could change the trajectory for workers in Missouri.” The PRO Act will make America’s economy work for working people. When union membership is greater, our wages are better. Between 1948 and 1973, when New Deal-era laws expanded and enforced collective bargaining, hourly wages rose by more than 90%. But over the next 40 years—from 1973 to 2013—hourly wages rose by just over 9% while productivity increased 74%. As it is, workers are not getting paid a fair share of what we produce. “The PRO Act is more than labor law reform, it’s civil rights legislation. A union contract is the single best tool we have to close racial and gender wage gaps, and to ensure dignity and due process for workers, regardless of where we were born, who we are, or what industry we work in,” stated Missouri AFL-CIO Vice President Reginald Thomas. “Expanding collective bargaining will increase protections for women, people of color, immigrants, and the LGBTQ community in areas where our laws are still falling short. We must pass the PRO Act.” The Missouri AFL-CIO is strongly calling on Congress to make the PRO Act a priority piece of legislation and pass it to empower Missouri’s workers.
Montana AFL-CIO:
At the Montana AFL-CIO we represent over 50,000 workers who believe all working people deserve good jobs and the power to determine their wages and working conditions. Montana’s working families know it is vital that congress pass the PRO Act—the most significant worker empowerment legislation since the Great Depression. Across the country nearly 60 million people say they would join a union today if they could. However, greedy corporations are trying to block workers' efforts to organize by using woefully outdated labor laws that interfere with the collective bargaining process and tell workers what they can and can’t negotiate for, undermining workers’ fundamental rights to speak for themselves. Just take the “right to work” laws being proposed in our state legislature. These laws are being pushed by an out-of-state corporate front group attempting to enrich billionaires while depressing wages and local economic prosperity. “It is time, we as workers, take back that power and we urge our members of congress to pass the PRO Act. Montana’s working families have the right to a voice on the job and the right to negotiate for wages that keep a roof over their heads,” stated Montana AFL-CIO Executive Secretary Al Ekblad. “Not only are we going to reject the so-called “Right to Work” laws in the legislature-- we’re going to be fighting for more than the status quo because Montana’s working families deserve it.”
Nebraska State AFL-CIO:
The AFL-CIO is the conduit that unifies the labor movement across America. No matter if you are living in a right-to-work State, have a labor friendly Governor, high union density or just the opposite, we all are unified as brothers and sisters seeking fairness and equality and we want what is the very best opportunities for working people. Never before have we seen the need in this country to tip the balance and provide workers with the means to ensure that their voice is heard and have the ability to bring fairness and equality back into the workplace. It is time to get the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act passed. For far too long, this country has been rigged against union workers and those choosing to organize. Passing this legislation will provide a clear path for workers to organize without interference or intimidation from their employer. The purpose of the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) is to provide a way for working people to collectively bargain with their employer, so they have a say in their working conditions, but employers have abused this act and the true intent has been whittled away with lack of enforcement and penalties for employers who try to circumvent the process. The Pro Act will strengthen the National Labor Relations Act and truly provide a path forward for those seeking to organize a union. Union support among workers is high and now is the time to pass the Pro Act to truly allow those who want a better life for themselves and their family the ability to do so. We must all work together to handle the public health crisis in a way that we protect all workers, we must all work together to prevent systemic racism and we must all work together to ensure equity and equality for all Americans. Working with the National AFL-CIO and all labor organizations throughout the United States, we will persevere in our efforts to pass the PRO Act and make this nation one that works for all working people.
New Jersey State AFL-CIO:
With the expected re-introduction in Congress of the Protecting the Right to Organize Act on Thursday, February 4–the PRO Act–America’s workers will begin their campaign to achieve the meaningful federal labor law reforms they have been seeking for decades. The PRO Act, which was blocked by the previous anti-worker Senate, will give everyone the right to organize and bargain collectively for better wages, benefits and workplace conditions through a good union contract. Once the PRO Act is passed, key provisions of the legislation will give working men and women the ability to reach a first contract after organizing, repeal so-called “right-to-work” laws that lead to lower wages, ban the hiring of permanent replacement workers to punish striking employees, and strengthen the National Labor Relations Board, which became the lapdog of big business under the previous administration. Two-thirds of Americans favor labor unions, and half of America’s workers in every sector of labor would join a union if they could. The PRO Act will give America’s working men and women a real say in their futures. We need the PRO Act. The New Jersey State AFL-CIO urges the House and Senate to pass the PRO Act quickly in a bipartisan manner.
North Shore Labor Council (Massachusetts):
The North Shore Labor Council stands firmly with our sisters and brothers across the country in support of the PRO ACT. Working to organize new members into the labor movement over the years, we’ve seen how employers and their hired guns can use the weakness of the current law to undermine working people’s democratic rights to form a union with their co-workers. For decades, the system designed for the bosses, by the bosses, has contributed to a society where the rich and powerful wield an inordinate amount of power. To restore the vibrancy of our democracy, the working class needs more power in the workplace, the marketplace, and at the ballot box. Passing the PRO ACT is an important step in that direction.”
New York State AFL-CIO President Mario Cilento (CWA):
The New York State AFL-CIO stands shoulder-to-shoulder with union members across the country in support of the PRO (Protecting the Right to Organize) ACT. It is the most significant worker empowerment legislation since the Great Depression because it will expand collective bargaining ensuring workers can exercise our freedom to organize. Once a union is recognized, it will ensure workers reach a first contract quickly and it will hold accountable any employer who punishes striking workers or retaliates against collective bargaining. We already know that when union membership is greater, our wages, benefits and quality of life are better. Passing the PRO ACT is exactly the legislation we need to help lift working people out of the most challenging health and economic crisis of our lifetime. We call on all members of New York’s congressional delegation to support the bill and fight for its swift passage.”
North Carolina State AFL-CIO President MaryBe McMillan (IUOE):
The PRO (Protecting the Right to Organize) Act being reintroduced in Congress today is a game-changer for workers in North Carolina. After seeing the PRO Act pass the U.S. House in 2020 only to be blocked by an anti-worker Senate, working people poured our hearts and souls into electing new leaders and won a mandate for federal action in the last election. Now with President Biden and pro-worker majorities in both houses of Congress, we have a generational opportunity to make America’s economy and democracy work for working people again. The PRO Act does that by ending misleading and racist “right to work” laws and creating meaningful consequences for employers that retaliate against workers for simply exercising their right to organize. All working people should have the freedom to join together in unions and collectively negotiate for better, safer working conditions. We strongly urge every member of our congressional delegation to sponsor the PRO Act and fight for its passage.
Ohio AFL-CIO President Tim Burga (USW):
The introduction of the PRO Act is welcome news and a very important part of the Workers First Agenda that the labor movement is pushing for in this Congress. The PRO Act is needed because our woefully outdated labor laws are no longer effective as a means for working people to have our voices heard. By empowering workers to exercise our freedom to organize and bargain, the PRO Act will hold corporations accountable by strengthening the National Labor Relations Board and allowing it to penalize employers who retaliate against working people in support of the union or collective bargaining. Public support for unions is soaring. In a recent Gallup survey, 65% of Americans have a favorable view of labor unions and another study by MIT showed that nearly 60 million Americans would join a union in their workplace if they could. Here in Ohio, we are marking the 10-year anniversary of our effort to repeal SB5. By more than a margin of two-to-one, Ohioans rejected the attack on Ohio public employees’ right to collectively bargain in 2011. A union contract is the single best tool we have to raise wages, close racial and gender wage gaps, and to ensure safety, dignity and due process for workers, regardless of where we were born, who we are or what industry we work in. We commend Senator Brown and Representatives Beatty, Kaptur and Ryan for signing on to the bill as co-sponsors. We will be working with our entire delegation to do the same.
Oregon AFL-CIO President Graham Trainor (IBEW):
Today’s introduction of the PRO (Protecting the Right to Organize) Act in the 117th Congress is a generational opportunity and the cornerstone of the American Labor Movement’s Workers First Agenda. Passed by the House in 2020, this critical legislation has been blocked by an anti-worker Senate majority, but working people fought tooth and nail to secure a pro-worker trifecta in the House, Senate, and the White House to ensure we can pass laws like the PRO Act that help working people. Our nation’s labor laws are woefully ineffective and no longer allow for working people to be heard. Inequality has skyrocketed because union membership has dwindled and policymakers have failed, year after year, to pass laws to fix the problem. Our economy before the COVID-19 pandemic was fractured, with all the wealth resting in the hands of the few while far too many struggled to provide for their families. Since last March, it has only gotten worse, but our resolve has never been stronger. We have to make American’s economy work for working people and greater union membership is key to solving our nation’s woes. It is time to build back better, with unions. The PRO Act’s positive economic impact cannot be overstated, as tens of millions of Americans say they would join a union if given the opportunity. The majority of Americans support unions and collective bargaining, the highest mark in nearly half a century. This is about making that opportunity easier for more workers, because we know that through a union we see a fair return on our hard work and a safe way to speak up on the job. Passing the PRO Act is not just a way to make joining a union easier, it will put our country on a path toward greater equity. A union contract is the single best tool we have to close racial and gender wage gaps, and to ensure dignity and due process for workers, regardless of where we were born, who we are or what industry we work in. Oregon’s unions applaud Senators Wyden and Merkley for their continued commitment to stand with working people in reforming our nation’s labor laws, as well as Congresswoman Bonamici, Congressmen DeFazio and Blumenauer for their support of the PRO Act last year on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives. Unfortunately, we continue to be disappointed by Congressman Schrader’s lack of support for the PRO Act, the only Democratic member of Oregon’s House delegation to oppose the most significant worker empowerment legislation since the Great Depression when it came up for a vote in 2020. We look forward to working with Oregon’s Congressional delegation to ensure the PRO Act becomes the law of the land this year. Working Americans have been demanding help and economic relief since long before the pandemic. This bill is one of the most meaningful changes Congress can make to help our nation live up to its promise of freedom and equality.
Pennsylvania AFL-CIO President Rick Bloomingdale (AFSCME) and Secretary-Treasurer Frank Snyder (USW):
Pennsylvania workers are about to see a new day for their rights on the job. The multi-billion-dollar union-busting industry will do everything it can to continue to deprive and attack workers' rights. But the power of working people will seize this moment, and their voices will be heard. We commend our Commonwealth's bi-partisan delegation of PRO Act co-sponsors for their commitment to all working people. We urge the rest of our representatives to do sign on and support this step toward economic justice," remarked President Rick Bloomingdale. "So-called 'right to work' laws are the last actual vestige of Jim Crow legislation. Designed by an architect of hatred, these laws aimed to keep Black workers out of unions in the South. It worked so well in depriving all working people of their rights on the job that corporations and anti-union interests exported this legislation to every state they could to destroy workers' rights across the Country. The PRO Act will finally remove this discriminatory attack on economic rights in America. This is an historic act in the fight to dismantle systemic discrimination and racism," stated Secretary-Treasurer Frank Snyder.
Rhode Island AFL-CIO President George Nee (OPEIU) and Secretary-Treasurer Patrick Crowley (NEA):
The Rhode Island AFL-CIO stands firmly with our sisters and brothers across the country in support of the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act. Working to organize new members into the labor movement over the years, we’ve seen how employers and their hired guns can use the weakness of the current law to undermine working people’s democratic rights to form a union with their co-workers. For decades, the system designed for the bosses, by the bosses, has contributed to a society where the rich and powerful wield an inordinate amount of power. To restore the vibrancy of our democracy, the working class needs more power in the workplace, the marketplace, and at the ballot box. Passing the PRO ACT is an important step in that direction.
Tennessee AFL-CIO Labor Council President Billy Dycus (USW) and Secretary-Treasurer A.J. Starling (ATU):
Today’s introduction of the PRO (Protecting the Right to Organize) Act is a pivotal moment for working families across the country and right here in Tennessee. For too long, our antiquated labor laws have made it difficult to effectively make our voices heard and secure a seat at the table. Passing the PRO Act gives us an opportunity to change the conversation and ensure that the components of a Workers’ First Agenda are sufficiently implemented, ushering in the bold change that we deserve. In the “Right to Work” state of Tennessee, we’ve seen the negative effects of what happens when the power and influence of big business goes unchecked. From dismally-low wages that have failed to rise with the cost of living for generations, to a higher number of workers dying on the job, those who have made it their mission to keep us down must be held accountable for their actions. The PRO Act is a good first step in making sure that happens. Working families joined together and spoke up in record numbers this past November. Now, we must do the same again to ensure that this historic legislation passes both chambers of Congress, is signed by President Biden, and ultimately becomes law. By increasing worker power, we can rebuild our economy fairly and ensure that it works for all working families. We are prepared to join together in solidarity with our brothers and sisters across the country so that we begin our journey of building back better.
Texas AFL-CIO President Rick Levy (TSEU/CWA) and Secretary-Treasurer Montserrat Garibay (AFT):
The Texas economy benefits when working people have a fair shot at improving their lives by speaking up together on the job. By taking out decades of one-sided barriers to forming unions, the PRO Act would raise standards for all Texas working families. As the pandemic shines new light on how central workplace safety, job security and decent benefits are to working families, the popularity of labor unions has reached a generational high. But there is a gap between approval of unions (nearly two-thirds in the Gallup poll) and union membership (less than 11% nationally and less than 6% in Texas). A big part of that gap stems from major flaws in federal law that have allowed union busters to thrive. The PRO Act would restore meaning to our national goal, declared in federal law, of encouraging collective bargaining. Proposed reforms in the bill include elimination of so-called ‘right to work’ laws. The laws, which originated in Texas and stand as a relic to Jim Crow, go hand in hand with poverty wages, absence of key benefits, on-the-job discrimination, and lax worker safety. Americans voted for change on Nov. 3. It is time to give the legitimate desire of working people to join unions a fair shot. We call on Congress to pass the PRO Act so President Biden can sign it into law.
Virginia AFL-CIO:
Virginia AFL-CIO recognizes that for too long now workers have been denied the basic right to join together and now is the right time to do the right thing by passing the PRO Act because it helps us build an economy that works for all working families. America’s democracy, economy, and livelihood continues to be built on the backs of the working people. We cannot stand by and continue to allow the voices of workers to be muted while their work is capitalized upon. Simply put–the right to organize isn’t something that should be negotiated. Virginia AFL-CIO believes in restoring our middle class and to do it, we must strengthen the collective power of workers to negotiate for better pay and safer working conditions–passing the PRO Act is the step needed to secure guaranteed fairness on the job through the collective power of workers.
Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:
Last year, Washington’s Sens. Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell co-sponsored the PRO Act, and Reps. Suzan DelBene, Rick Larsen, Derek Kilmer, Pramila Jayapal, Kim Schrier, Adam Smith and then-Rep. Denny Heck all co-sponsored and voted for it. This year, the WSLC is urging each of them—and new Rep. Marilyn Strickland—to continue supporting the PRO Act. The WSLC will also be asking Republican Reps. Jaime Herrera Beutler, Dan Newhouse and Cathy McMorris Rodgers to reconsider their past opposition. The PRO Act is comprehensive labor legislation that would strengthen workers’ right to organize a union and bargain for higher wages, better benefits, and safer working conditions. It passed the U.S. House of Representatives in 2020, but was blocked by an anti-labor majority in the Senate. Last fall, this bill motivated union members across the nation to mobilize for a pro-worker trifecta in the U.S. House, Senate and White House. Working people won a mandate and now they want passage of the PRO Act. “Our labor laws are woefully outdated and no longer empower working people to have their voices heard,” said WSLC President Larry Brown. “The National Labor Relations Act was passed in 1935, but it has been chipped away ever since. Now, forming a union is unacceptably difficult, and for some, it’s impossible. Studies have shown that 60 million Americans would join a union today if they could. The PRO Act is their chance to regain their freedom to choose a union. It’s time to pass the PRO Act and build back better with unions!” “After decades of wealthy corporations undermining our labor laws and four years of the Trump Administration’s attacks on workers’ rights, the PRO Act will restore workers’ ability to join together to demand their fair share of the economic growth they drive,” said Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA), Chair of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee. “This legislation is critical to supporting workers in Washington state and across the country during this pandemic and to building back an economy that works for everyone—not just those at the very top. It’s time we pass the PRO Act and protect workers’ right to stand together and fight for better pay, quality health care, a safer workplace, and a secure retirement.” The most significant worker empowerment legislation since the Great Depression, the PRO Act will: 1. Empower workers to exercise our freedom to organize and bargain. 2. Ensure that workers can reach a first contract quickly after a union is recognized. 3. End employers’ practice of punishing striking workers by hiring permanent replacements. Speaking up for labor rights is within every worker’s rights—and workers shouldn’t lose our jobs for it. 4. Hold corporations accountable by strengthening the National Labor Relations Board and allowing it to penalize employers who retaliate against working people in support of the union or collective bargaining. 5. Repeal “right to work” laws—divisive and racist laws created during the Jim Crow era—that lead to lower wages, fewer benefits and more dangerous workplaces. 6. Create pathways for workers to form unions, without fear, in newer industries like Big Tech. “Inequality has skyrocketed because union membership has dwindled and policymakers have failed to pass pro-worker labor laws,” Brown said. ”The PRO Act is more than labor law reform, it’s civil rights legislation. A union contract is the single best tool we have to close racial and gender wage gaps, and to ensure dignity and due process for workers, regardless of where we were born, who we are or what industry we work in.”
Wisconsin State AFL-CIO President Stephanie Bloomingdale (AFT):
America can build back better with unions by ensuring the passage of the PRO Act. Our woefully outdated labor laws no longer serve as an effective means for working people to have our voices heard and our rights realized. As a result, income inequality has skyrocketed and too many workers lost jobs or faced unsafe working conditions during the pandemic. Workers are embracing collective action with a dedication not seen in generations. Research tells us that nearly half of all nonunion workers would join a union if given the chance. Yet the system is stacked against a worker ever signing a first union contract. Companies spend millions to break or skirt labor law and face such low consequences that illegal anti-union tactics are commonplace. A union contract is the single best tool we have to close racial and gender wage gaps, raise wages to build a strong middle class, and ensure dignity and due process for workers, regardless of where we were born, who we are or what industry we work in. The passage of the PRO Act would help bring the American Dream within reach for millions of workers and spur economic growth for all. The PRO Act is the most significant worker empowerment legislation since the Great Depression. We thank Senator Tammy Baldwin, Representative Gwen Moore, Representative Mark Pocan, and Representative Ron Kind for co-sponsoring the PRO Act and call on the entire Wisconsin congressional delegation to support this vital legislation. It’s time for bold action for America’s working people. It’s time for the PRO Act.
Wyoming State AFL-CIO:
The Wyoming AFL-CIO representing working families joins in the national call for Congress to pass the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act being introduced today. Across Wyoming in 2020, American heroes in grocery stores, the U.S. Postal Service, hospitals and more became known as “essential workers,” and many of them had to risk their lives by going to work in unsafe conditions. Later we came to find out, in 2020, Wyoming once again led the nation in on-the-job deaths per capita. As the coronavirus crisis continues into 2021 and deadly workplace risks remain, there has never been a more important time to give workers more voice and power. “For Wyoming’s workers coming home from work is a roll of dice. The PRO Act is the first step in protecting families from the heartache of missing someone around the dinner table because they didn’t have a voice on the job. We urge every Wyoming congress member to support the PRO Act, stand with workers, and keep returning home. The PRO Act would hold employers accountable and institute civil penalties for violations of the law, our state desperately needs this legislation,” stated Wyoming AFL-CIO Executive Secretary Tammy Johnson.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 02/10/2021 - 11:18Tags: PRO Act
Black History Month Profiles: Sheila E.
This year, for Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only the conditions for working people in our community, but also across the country. Today's profile is Sheila E.
One of life’s constants for Sheila E. comes down to a simple phrase: follow the beat. And her impeccable inner rhythm is the pulse behind a trailblazing career that still knows no bounds. She is a world-class drummer and percussionist whose credits read like chapters in a music history book: Ringo Starr. Marvin Gaye, Prince, Beyoncé, Herbie Hancock, Diana Ross, Lionel Richie, Gloria Estefan and George Duke. Sheila is also a Grammy and Emmy Award-nominated singer/songwriter behind the seminal hits “The Glamorous Life” and “A Love Bizarre.” She is a fearless multi-instrumentalist equally proficient on guitar and bass. Actress. Mentor. Philanthropist.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 02/10/2021 - 08:24Philip J. Jennings: My Words in Tribute to John Sweeney
How sad we are to receive the news that our union brother, John Sweeney, has been taken from us. I first met John over 30 years ago. He had an immense impact on life and on a generation of emerging leaders who mourn together at this sad loss. I send my sad condolences to Maureen, Tricia and John Junior.
He was elected president of SEIU in 1980, having spent 20 years as first a contract negotiator and then president of the legendary SEIU 32b local in New York. The local was a union power in New York and counted over 40,000 janitor members. A militant local that had negotiated a collective agreement that provided janitors with a decent life and dignity on the job.
I had joined the FIET secretariat in 1980 and in those years, as workplaces evolved and white-collar unions grew their base into the wider services sector, new horizons for union activity opened.
Relationships were established with John and his SEIU team and those new organizing horizons opened for FIET. We committed to the idea that our global union work should embrace janitors, cleaners and security guards. It was John and his lively and ambitious team that became a key force for FIET to develop and grow the sector. A FIET World Congress resolution in 1987 and the FIET Property Services sector were founded in 1988. He had set the wheels in motion to grow at home and grow union strength abroad.
John, a New Yorker, made his home in Bethesda, Maryland. In the Bible, Bethesda possessed a pool where miracles of healing occurred.
Under John's leadership, the membership of SEIU doubled. It was considered a union miracle at a time of slipping union membership.
This organizing success was no miracle. His cure was to invest in organizing, increase the financial resources available, to trust and build a strategy and compose a brilliant, creative and committed team to deliver on the promise. A legacy that produced a further doubling of SEIU's membership the following decade with Andy Stern at the helm.
John had the appearance of an old-school labor man from a bygone era but how those appearances deceived. He was soft spoken, until he made one of his speeches and then no microphones were required, he employed words that conveyed confidence and hope. He challenged and encouraged you to see the possibilities of international union work in a new light.
In the words of Seamus Heaney, "Believe that further shore is reachable from here."
From a low membership base, the FIET Property Services sector rapidly grew, and today at UNI Global Union, the sector has well over 1 million members and a presence in each continent. They have become a global union power.
John insisted that organizing had to be front and center of our international work. With the increasing global reach of multinational companies, he wanted those organizing campaigns to go global and they did. Today Uni Global Union has several global agreements with the major property services companies.
That seemed a long way off when we began our work in property services. He encouraged us to take international solidarity campaigns beyond supportive messages to coordinated action across borders. John recognized the importance of working with and developing confidence with unions that had long-standing relations in those companies where the head office was based.
To bridge mutual understanding, he encouraged international union delegations to visit with American workers employed in the same multinational. It was always an eye-opener as another hitherto hidden side to corporate behavior was revealed. From anti-union busting campaigns, victimization and intimidation of employees, to third-class wages and unsafe conditions. He felt that if those delegations could walk in the shoes of his members, if even for a day, those human exchanges would build comprehension, sympathy and support.
John and his team introduced us to another style of campaigning, in the words of the late congressman and civil rights legend John Lewis to make 'good trouble.' A whole new playbook emerged from street theater, encounters with CEOs on golf courses and sometimes at church, to shareholder leverage campaigns. This included deep financial analysis, looking at who owned the properties, who invested in them and, of course, who the tenants were. During financial roadshows, CEOs were often surprised to field questions about why they treated their janitors, cleaners and security guards, many of whom immigrants were, so badly.
The aim was to make these invisible workers—who usually toiled through the night—more visible.
Always eager to take the concerns of these invisible workers to the public street demonstrations became a regular occurrence. I recall the SEIU Justice for Janitors campaign in Century City, Los Angeles, on June 15, 1990, when the SEIU called a demonstration to highlight the plight of the janitors. The march was met with a violent reaction from the notorious Los Angeles police. It became worldwide news.
The new economic reality was present: changing ownership structures, soulless portfolio entries in financial institutions' balance sheets, demanding above market rates of return, slipping union contract coverage, new and international service providers. In this case, the Danish ISS was resisting the local organizing drive. The celebrated film "Bread and Roses" is based on the plight of these mainly immigrant workers. Today, UNI Global Union celebrates Justice for Janitors Day on June 15 each year. I know John was thrilled to know the day had gone global. We won local recognition and negotiated a global agreement with ISS.
On the opening day of the 1991 FIET congress in San Francisco, John and American union leaders led the 2000 delegates in a demonstration against the unfair labor practices of Apple computer against its own janitors. The march turned into an act of solidarity with the Russian people, as a coup occurred there during that weekend.
John dared us to act, pushed us beyond the customs of the day and it transformed organizations and lives and it was always conducted with a personal modesty and a warm human touch.
He wanted to know you and about you. He would pull my leg about my Welsh roots and say "How could Wales inflict me on the world?" I would say, "You live in Bethesda, that’s also a Welsh town." I idly said to John, "You should visit Wales. We can do it in a day." He accepted. My bluff was not to be called. He and Maureen took the dawn train from London to Cardiff. With my mother in tow and much talk of the Oscar winning movie "How Green was my Valley," a tale of life in a Welsh mining village, off we went to the valleys of the Welsh Rhondda. They were immersed in the miners' struggles, the mining towns, learned the history of the red flag at Cyfartha Castle, saw the site of the Aberfan tragedy and at lunch consumed the very Welsh lava bread (a Welsh delicacy made from seaweed). Our day concluding with an interview next to the Cardiff city center statue of Aneurin Bevan, the founder of the National Health Service born in those same Welsh mining valleys. They were both in London in time for dinner. He always asked how my mother and family was.
He took his ideas to the AFL-CIO and, as president, transformed it into an important political force. He built new alliances, he championed union organizing, migrant workers, the invisible workers, equality, the fight against racism and discrimination and for unions to be inclusive.
He brought a new focus and intensity to international trade union work and stressed the need for new economic alternatives to the neoliberal thinking of the day. He sought a more robust International Labor Organization, wanting them to take a bigger stick to breaches of freedom of association. He argued for a stronger social dimension to trade deals and sought for the World Trade Organization demonstrations in Seattle to be a wakeup call to policymakers. He worked in close cooperation with the global union movement to tackle the 2008 financial crisis including exchanges with President Barack Obama.
In 2007, he hosted a major global union organizing event in Washington, D.C., with 200 people present. Ideas were shared about union growth, global campaigning and the struggle against anti-union laws. The ideas exchanged had a strong impact on me and those reflections resulted in a new strategic direction for Uni Global Union and the 'Breaking Through' plan as our organizing plan was and continues to be known. He took us to the Capitol to lobby political leaders for labor law reform and for the Employee Free Choice Act. We all hope that the Joe Biden labor reform promises will be delivered and when they are, we will remember John.
John had an immense impact on my life. He gave you confidence to keep improving and striving and never to forget why you were doing this work, whether it was in the streets with workers or at the G20 and Davos corridors of power, to "believe that further shore is reachable from here."
Philip J. Jennings served as general secretary of UNI Global Union from 2000-2018 and general secretary of the International Federation of Commercial, Clerical, Professional and Technical Employees (FIET) from 1989-1999.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 02/09/2021 - 12:13Black History Month Profiles: John Clayton
This year, for Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only the conditions for working people in our community, but also across the country. Today's profile is John Clayton.
John Clayton is a natural born multitasker. The multiple roles in which he excels—composer, arranger, conductor, producer, educator, mentor and bassist extraordinaire—garner him a number of challenging assignments and commissions. His accomplishments include a Grammy Award and eight additional nominations. He has worked with artists, including Diana Krall, Paul McCartney, Regina Carter, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Gladys Knight and Queen Latifah. He is a co-founder of the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra and the Clayton Brothers Quintet.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 02/09/2021 - 09:27Service + Solidarity Spotlight: Houston AFM Members Perform Concerts for COVID Patients
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 April, the Houston Methodist Center for Performing Arts Medicine launched Musicare, a pilot program with the Houston Professional Musicians' Association, an affiliate of the American Federation of Musicians (AFM). Since then, AFM members have performed more than 400 concerts for ICU patients at Houston Methodist. In the early days of the program, the shows were performed for the hospital surgical ward, but in recent times the shows have been overwhelmingly for COVID-19 patients. And the program is seeing positive results. Houston Symphony cellist Brinton Smith spoke about the experience: “Sometimes you think people aren’t really all there, and then you see that they’re crying, or you get some kind of emotional response. The people who really love music have these powerful responses that you never forget.”
Read more about the program.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 02/09/2021 - 08:30Tags: Community Service, COVID-19
Disregard for Health and Safety: 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.
Amazon Has ‘Disregard for Health and Safety of Its Own Employees:’ RWDSU President: "Yahoo Finance’s Alexis Christoforous and Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union president Stuart Appelbaum discuss Amazon’s upcoming vote to unionize workers in Alabama. First of all, I'd say that a majority of the workers at the plant have already signed cards saying that they want to union at that facility. I know that there are a lot of complaints about the dehumanization and the mistreatment of workers at the Amazon facility. People get their assignments from robots. They're fired by text message. And they feel that the robots are treated better than the human beings who work there. There are a lot of concerns about health and safety. Even before the pandemic, the pace at the fulfillment center was unsustainable."
Ron Bieber: Congress and Biden Should Act on an Agenda for Working People: "Now we have a unique opportunity to continue to improve the lives of working folks with a workers first agenda supported by the AFL-CIO, the country’s federation of national and international labor unions that represent millions of working men and women. First is empowering workers. Stronger unions are essential to helping our country address and move forward out of each of the crises facing us right now, so we are hopeful that the Biden administration works with Congress to enact the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act and the Public Service Freedom to Negotiate Act."
Column: Biden Sweeps Trump’s Rabidly Anti-Union Appointees Out of a Key Federal Labor Agency: "Continuing his considerable effort to strip the government of all vestiges of Trumpism, President Biden on Tuesday swept a clutch of union-busting officials out of a little-known but all-important federal labor relations agency. The agency is the Federal Service Impasses Panel, which rules on disputes over government union contracts when an agency and its union can’t reach agreement."
AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Shuler Talks Tech and Jobs: "'We are going to insert ourselves at every table,' Shuler said. 'If we don’t get workers to the table, there’s going to be more of what Trump tapped into,' she said, in reference to angry voters who feel left behind by globalization. 'Training works better when you talk to workers. They can tell you what will and won’t work when automating. We’re not always hostile—we can be collaborators and make it go well.'"
John J. Sweeney, 1934-2021: "John Sweeney, who led an era of transformative change in America’s labor movement, passed away Feb. 1 at the age of 86. Sweeney was one of four children born to Irish immigrants in a working-class Bronx neighborhood shortly after the Great Depression."
Amazon’s Anti-Union Blitz Stalks Alabama Warehouse Workers Everywhere, Even the Bathroom: "Amazon is the great white whale, a target that labor groups have longed for years to organize, said Richard Trumka, president of the AFL-CIO, which is providing personnel and strategic guidance to aid the RWDSU. 'We’ll give them whatever they need to help them win,' Trumka said. 'It’s an important, important drive.'”
Pandemic Wears on Essential Workers: ‘Everybody Forgets That You’re Still on the Front Line’: "In March, when Americans were just starting to adjust to a locked-down world and no one could have predicted how long the pandemic would last, The Wall Street Journal interviewed essential workers, from a subway operator to a home-health aide. The Journal recently talked to the same group again to see how they have fared in a crisis that has so far led to more than 440,000 U.S. deaths and a transformation of the U.S. economy that is painful for many. The workers expressed a mix of frustration, exhaustion and determination. Most still see the importance of what they do, and some have seized on the demand for services like home deliveries to boost their incomes. Others have stopped working, partly out of fear of getting infected. Others have no choice but to keep going and feel lucky they still have jobs."
Biden Moves Quickly to Show Union Workers that Democrats Care: "Richard Trumka, president of the AFL-CIO, are more optimistic about the prospects for organized labor than they’ve been in many years. 'I know what he is. Joe Biden’s a blue-collar guy,' said Trumka, who like Biden is from a working-class area in Pennsylvania and has known the president for 40 years. 'He understands working people, the importance of a paycheck, importance of health and safety on the job, importance of having a union.… He understands all of that. It’s not something he picked up in the polls. It’s what he believes.'”
Amazon’s Cynical, Anti-Union Attack on Mail Voting: "A battle over voting by mail is again being waged in an electoral contest. But now it’s Amazon that opposes a mail-ballot election in order to thwart a unionization effort at an Alabama fulfillment center. In November, Jeff Bezos, Amazon’s chief executive, rejected Donald Trump’s falsehoods about voter fraud, writing on Instagram just after the election, 'By voting in record numbers, the American people proved again that our democracy is strong.' Now, however, Amazon’s opposition to mail balloting threatens to undermine workplace democracy. In the era of Covid-19, it also endangers public health."
Aviation Unions Are Asking Congress for $15 Billion to Extend Furlough Protections: "A coalition of aviation unions has asked congress for a $15 billion extension for a furlough protection program, warning a lack of funding would lead to layoffs. The funding would extend the current Payroll Support Program through September 30. Otherwise, it would expire on March 31. 'Without these actions, wide-scale layoffs in the industry will begin as early as March 31st,' the unions wrote in a letter addressed to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, along with others."
A New Day for Labor in the South?: "'The whole South has right-to-work laws, this is where they originated,' MaryBe McMillan, president of the North Carolina AFL-CIO, told Facing South. 'It would be a completely different environment here in North Carolina to be able to collect fair share fees from workers who are already represented by a union, so that it's not just union members who are paying but everybody's that's reaping the benefits of a union contract who can put in some money towards the administration and implementation of a contract and union representation.' McMillan is also encouraged by Biden's support for reforms that would allow public employees to collectively bargain, something prohibited in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia, and the PRO Act's heightened penalties and enforcement measures against employers who threaten and even fire workers who attempt to unionize. 'It's really important that companies face stiff penalties when they break the law and violate workers' rights,' said McMillan. 'That's especially important here in the South, where we see a real hostile, union-busting climate.'"
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 02/08/2021 - 12:57Black History Month Profiles: LaTanya Cline
This year, for Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only the conditions for working people in their community, but also across the country. Today's profile is LaTanya Cline.
LaTanya Cline is a member of United Domestic Workers of America (AFSCME Local 3930). Cline is a home care provider to many individuals, including her husband, a military veteran. She is also one of the hardest-working union organizers you'll ever meet. Whether she's dancing and welcoming people to food distributions, door-knocking to organize home care providers or talking to voters, Cline shows up time and time again for working families and her community.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 02/08/2021 - 08:37Service + Solidarity Spotlight: Alabama AFL-CIO: In the Wake of Disaster, Unions Step Up and Make the Difference
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 Monday, Jan. 25, a devastating tornado touched down in Fultondale, Alabama. Immediately, the state federation, along with allied labor organizations, jumped in to help. Unfortunately, the homes of two union siblings were damaged beyond repair. In response to the tragedy, a list of approximately 400 union volunteers who are able and willing to help clean up and rebuild has been sourced. Last weekend, union members brought equipment to help in the cleanup efforts. The disaster occurred not too far from the site of one of the most important union campaigns in the nation, the organization of the Amazon workers at the Bessemer plant. In a recent column for the Alabama Political Reporter, Alabama AFL-CIO President Bren Riley (USW) touched on both:
“We confidently believe that Fultondale will fully recover from this natural disaster. And we also have full faith in Bessemer’s courageous Amazon workers as they begin their union vote next week. Not everyone is or knows a union member, but if you do, you know the importance of our fight. That’s why when workers need our help, time and time again, we show up. And we’re not going anywhere.”
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 02/08/2021 - 07:55Tags: Community Service, COVID-19
Black History Month Profiles: William Lucy
This year, for Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who have made Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only the conditions for working people in their community, but also across the country. Today's profile is William Lucy.
The famous slogan, "I Am A Man," is credited to William Lucy, who was elected president of Public Services International in 1994, the first African American to hold the post. He co-founded the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists in 1972. In 1995, he was appointed to the AFL-CIO Executive Council. He served as vice president of the AFL-CIO's Maritime Trades Department, Department for Professional Employees and the Industrial Union Department. Lucy was secretary-treasurer of AFSCME from 1972 until his retirement in 2010. Lucy co-founded the Free South Africa Movement, a grassroots anti-apartheid campaign, and was part of an AFL-CIO delegation monitoring elections when Nelson Mandela was elected the first black president of South Africa.
Kenneth Quinnell Sun, 02/07/2021 - 13:24Economy Gains 49,000 Jobs in January; Unemployment Down to 6.3%
The U.S. economy gained 49,000 jobs in January, and the unemployment rate fell to 6.3%, according to figures released Friday morning by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
In response to the January job numbers, AFL-CIO Chief Economist William Spriggs tweeted:
Payroll employment was essentially flat in January, +49,000. The unemployment rate fell in the household survey from 6.7% to 6.3% on households reporting increases in employment @AFLCIO
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) February 5, 2021In a reversal of December, in January women gained 87,000 payroll slots, while men lost 38,000. Two months of flat job gains, Congress needs to act now on @POTUS plan to get the virus under control. @AFLCIO
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) February 5, 2021Local governments added payroll in education 49,400 but lost 13,300 in other areas, similarly among state government employment, up 36,100 but down elsewhere 5,700. Our state and local governments need help to get a strong public sector response to the virus. @AFLCIO
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) February 5, 2021The number of long term unemployed increased in January from 3.96 million to 4.02 million, and their share of the unemployed increased from 37.1 to 39.5% These show it will be very hard to get the unemployment number down. We need help now to slow that growth. @AFLCIO
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) February 5, 2021The stress of the labor market is most intense for women, single head of household, for whom the unemployment rate increased in January from 7.2 to 8.3% as the number unemployed increased 111,000 to 845,000. We need Congress to pass @POTUS plan now. @AFLCIO
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) February 5, 2021In January the unemployment rate fell for Blacks from 9.9 to 9.2% but it remains higher than the unemployment rate for high school dropouts, which in January fell to 9.1%. The need for racial equity couldn't be more obvious. @AFLCIO @rolandsmartin @APRI_National @CBTU72
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) February 5, 2021Our inability to control the virus has halted job recovery in the lowest paid (moving down the chart) service sectors of the economy, leisure & hospitality and retail losing (moving left on the graph) the most jobs. The outlier for job gains were temporary help services. @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/JHjfSFMkbe
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) February 5, 2021The labor force flow data, from December to January, shows worker optimism: those unemployed in December were more likely to find work than to leave the labor force; those not in the labor force were more likely to find jobs than be unemployed when they reentered. 1/3 pic.twitter.com/bdC18F4AsV
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) February 5, 2021The problem in the labor market is a shortage of jobs, and the affect of virus on keeping people out of the labor force. The household supplemental questions show that the virus is keeping a disproportionate share of Black and Hispanic workers out. 2/3 https://t.co/AygZ0odeCW
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) February 5, 2021These all indicate how urgent it is to pass @POTUS plan to address the virus. Republicans don't want it passed in reconciliation because that would only require a majority of the Senate. We don't have time for Republican Senators to finally grasp the situation.
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) February 5, 2021Last month's biggest job gains were in professional and business services (+97,000), local government education (+49,000), state government education (+36,000), private education (+34,000), wholesale trade (+14,000) and mining (+9,000). The biggest losses were in leisure and hospitality (-61,000), retail trade (-38,000), health care (-30,000), transportation and warehousing (-28,000), manufacturing (-10,000) and construction (-3,000). Employment in other major industries, including information, financial activities and other services, showed little change in January.
In January, the unemployment rates decreased for teenagers (14.8%), Black Americans (9.2%), Hispanics (8.6%), adult men (6.0%), adult women (6.0%) and White Americans (5.7%). The unemployment rate for Asians (6.6%) rose slightly.
The number of long-term unemployed workers (those jobless for 27 weeks or more) barely changed in January and accounted for 39.5% of the total unemployed.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 02/05/2021 - 16:39Pass the Pro Act: 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.
Alabama AFL-CIO:
Thanks! #1U https://t.co/1erW2lDfG1
— Alabama AFL-CIO (@AlabamaAFLCIO) February 2, 2021Alaska State AFL-CIO:
Alaska is one of 22 states that saw increases in the percentage of workers covered by a union! This proves that Alaska truly is #UnionStrong! https://t.co/zuEPZ1BVqg
— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) February 3, 2021California Labor Federation:
The pandemic has exposed the structural inequities in our society as BIPOC communities bear the brunt of this disease. We need to increase hazard pay for essential workers, flatten the curve & prioritize vaccines for working-class communities of color. This is devastating. https://t.co/xt6SasiY7r
— California Labor Federation (@CaliforniaLabor) February 4, 2021Colorado AFL-CIO:
— Colorado AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOCO) February 4, 2021Connecticut AFL-CIO:
.@TheIronworkers Local 15 Business Manager Joe Toner explains how the Killingly Energy Center will create hundreds of jobs, bring in millions in private investment, and provide cleaner & more reliable energy for CT. https://t.co/7SW6MMUNjS
— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) January 28, 2021Florida AFL-CIO:
"Around 12 million Americans lost out on those jobless benefits after the unemployment programs expired, according to a study by The Century Foundation."https://t.co/tC2YPaCzpg
— Florida AFL-CIO (@FLAFLCIO) February 4, 2021Georgia State AFL-CIO:
The COVID-19 virus is still surging. @BrianKempGA and the @GaRepublicans are still failing our state with their incompetent response. Now is the time for MORE accountability for employers, not less. Tell your lawmaker to vote NO on #HB112! #1u #gapol https://t.co/S9OAqu3Ahh
— Georgia AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOGeorgia) February 3, 2021Illinois AFL-CIO:
— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) February 2, 2021Indiana State AFL-CIO:
Indiana should be doing more to protect our educators. https://t.co/cY1R0xHiM3
— Indiana AFL-CIO (@INAFLCIO) February 4, 2021Iowa Federation of Labor:
Americans agree — 74% of the public says it’s “extremely important” for federal aid to prioritize states, cities, counties and schools, especially Medicaid and education. #FundtheFrontLines. https://t.co/EmfIGiNDLZ pic.twitter.com/AZJWtSd1Yn
— Iowa AFL-CIO (@IowaAFLCIO) February 4, 2021Kansas AFL-CIO:
We must #ExpandMedicaid to remain a competitive option for families and businesses.
— Kansas AFL-CIO (@KansasAFLCIO) February 2, 2021Kentucky State AFL-CIO:
From @ForwardKy - authored by our own Executive Board member, Berry Craig:
“COVID is real. I know. So stop playing politics with your — and my — health.”https://t.co/bqgYCar9pi
Maine AFL-CIO:
If we want to create a working class movement for #ClimateJustice climate policies must respect workers’ rights & create good paying jobs with benefits. #mepolitics https://t.co/9SbvzKyjie
— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) January 27, 2021Maryland State and D.C. AFL-CIO:
Pass. The. PRO Act. https://t.co/ZPAWxGy70d
— Maryland State and DC AFL-CIO (@MDDCStateFed) January 26, 2021Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
The @massaflcio celebrates #BlackHistoryMonth.
✊?✊?✊? pic.twitter.com/9qgsjxveLY
Michigan State AFL-CIO:
Don't miss President @RonBieberMI's column this morning on the importance of Congress and Biden passing the @AFLCIO's Workers First Agenda as soon as possible. READ >>> https://t.co/iQAaD1Nb6v #1u #PassthePROAct
— Michigan AFL-CIO ? (@MIAFLCIO) February 4, 2021Minnesota AFL-CIO:
A paraeducator is devoted to her students, even at great risk https://t.co/SeKBtbtGe1 Powerful story from a member of @SEIULocal284. Workers like Melissa deserve better than this. #1u #mnleg @MNReformer pic.twitter.com/YNgRSrnrIY
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) February 3, 2021Missouri AFL-CIO:
A little snow can’t stop our activism in fighting for Missourians! We continue to call on Senator Hawley to resign after his incitement of the insurrection at the Capitol riots. He is not representing Missourians! #ResignHawley pic.twitter.com/MIKiFdEPF7
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) January 27, 2021Montana State AFL-CIO:
On Friday, Montanans spoke loud and clear against HB168. Now out-of-state interests are at it again with SB89. Here in Montana, we know the difference between standing up for working families and out of town special interests. Tell your representatives NO on #SB89! #MTLeg #MTpol pic.twitter.com/xPAKUsEm7x
— Montana AFL-CIO (@MTaflcio) January 25, 2021New Hampshire AFL-CIO:
Congratulations to Sen. Hassan on her new appointment to Veterans' Affairs. We look forward to working with her on pending legislation, especially on the Health, Education, Labor and Pension (HELP) Committee. Let's pass the PRO Act!https://t.co/3dKgkpJ2nq
— NewHampshire AFL-CIO (@NHAFLCIO) February 3, 2021New Jersey State AFL-CIO:
“Having someone leading OSHA who stands for what the agency’s name means – occupational safety and health – that’s what every worker needs,” New Jersey State AFL-CIO President Charles Wowkanech said. https://t.co/YvM0bMW575
— New Jersey AFL-CIO (@NJAFLCIO) January 22, 2021New York State AFL-CIO:
Shame on Siemens Energy - The men and women who built the company deserve better. USW @steelworkers have the full resources of the New York State AFL-CIO in their fight for respect, dignity, and justice. https://t.co/at77zpP38Y
— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) February 3, 2021North Carolina State AFL-CIO:
When more people come together in unions, working people have the power to make the American Dream possible for everyone--Black, brown, and white. https://t.co/gO5NMQ7Pyr #PassThePROAct #1u
— NC AFL-CIO // #VotersDecided (@NCStateAFLCIO) February 4, 2021North Dakota AFL-CIO:
ND Lawmakers Hear Plan for No-Cost Lunch for All Students https://t.co/kZrMQqkjp7
— North Dakota AFL-CIO (@NDAFLCIO) January 28, 2021Ohio AFL-CIO:
We hope those who care about equal access to quality public education for every student across the country read this important column by Ohio @AFLCIO Secretary-Treasurer and @OFTadvocate @AFTunion President @mcropper1 https://t.co/BblIi90bbU
— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) February 3, 2021Oregon AFL-CIO:
Pride at Work, American Federation of Teachers (AFT), and Oregon Tradeswomen, along with an expert legal team from Democracy Forward and National Women’s Law Center are suing the government over Trump's final swipe at the rights of LGBTQ workers. https://t.co/lqnhP59MEQ
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) February 4, 2021Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:
— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) February 4, 2021Rhode Island AFL-CIO:
Black History Month Lesson Plans and Resources https://t.co/9OmrNJuG4j #1u #BlackHistoryMonth
— Rhode Island AFL-CIO (@riaflcio) February 3, 2021Tennessee AFL-CIO Labor Council:
ICYMI last week, this is how the Republican supermajority chooses to govern in Tennessee. https://t.co/S4KAbCpnwe
— Tennessee AFL-CIO (@tnaflcio) February 3, 2021Texas AFL-CIO:
PRESS RELEASE: "We need vaccines and effective public health policies, and we need them now. What we don't need is a Governor who wants to be the next Donald Trump." #txlege #1u https://t.co/ZJyfNpLawo
— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) February 2, 2021Virginia AFL-CIO:
Celebrating #BlackHistoryMonth with the inspirational powerhouse @aliciagarza #BlackLivesMatter pic.twitter.com/OBO8Dl8iZe
— Virginia AFL-CIO (@Virginia_AFLCIO) February 4, 2021Washington State Labor Council:
We are proud (and fortunate) to have Laurel and Jasmin helping the WSLC pursue our 2021 Workers' Recovery Agenda in Olympia. #1u #waleg https://t.co/RjxR0SYqYB
— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) February 2, 2021Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
Take a minute to contact the Assembly in support of protecting frontline workers with Wisconsin's mask mandate https://t.co/TP2lxxSm5h
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) February 3, 2021 Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 02/05/2021 - 16:22The Power and Importance of Unions: 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:
An important and heartfelt message from our awesome members in Nashville.
With the help of our community, we can get through this difficult moment in time the same way we always do: Together. https://t.co/FSlE721L3Y
AFGE:
This is a win for federal workers nationwide. FSIP is a critical component in the federal negotiating process, and we look forward to President Biden's future picks issuing just decisions, unencumbered by political interference. #1u https://t.co/GGghz7GJOw
— AFGE (@AFGENational) February 3, 2021AFSCME:
A bipartisan call is going from more than 400 mayors to Congress – go big on funding the front lines. The @USMayors are echoing what AFSCME has been saying for months. #FundtheFrontLines https://t.co/cOKZgZysFx
— AFSCME (@AFSCME) February 3, 2021Alliance for Retired Americans:
A bipartisan group of lawmakers introduced a bill to ease a major financial burden on the USPS by eliminating a requirement that it fund retirement benefits decades ahead of time. https://t.co/T5FUN6qF5L #SaveUSPS pic.twitter.com/rnFXCn0Gp3
— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) February 3, 2021Amalgamated Transit Union:
Today, Int. Pres. John Costa kicked off a Shop Steward and Executive Board Member zoom training with more than 25 Local Shop Stewards and Executive Board members from across the ATU. #TogetherWeFightTogetherWeWin pic.twitter.com/VD4RaTqGWQ
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) February 3, 2021American Federation of Musicians:
Our AFM-EPF pension plan is one of 100s of multiemployer union pensions in critical status because of aging demographics, declining participation, and reduced contributions. Support the Reconciliation Package and ensure our pension remains secure: https://t.co/eXYQ1KYKJQ
— AFM (@The_AFM) February 2, 2021American Federation of Teachers:
We agree with @teachcardona - American Rescue Act is key to how our schools move forward post-COVID. Our students need mental health services, extended learning over the summer, extended day and wrap around services. Tell your lawmaker to pass the act: https://t.co/pa8eW6WrxR
— AFT (@AFTunion) February 3, 2021American Postal Workers Union:
Removing the 2006 prefunding mandate is a critical step to Save the Post Office - Let's get it done in 2021! https://t.co/fUXiocXBVM
— APWU National (@APWUnational) February 3, 2021Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance:
Excited to see AAPI leaders in #Redistricting @kathayccc at @commoncause @snarecha at @allontheline
Vik Malhotra at @FCCPTweets
Leading a panel with @OHorganizing @scsj to train 200+ folks: "We the People have cracked open [barriers to redistricting]"
Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:
Our economy depends on aviation, and aviation depends on people feeling safe onboard our planes. Tell your governor that Flight Attendants should be prioritized as frontline essential workers and moved to Tier 1b. https://t.co/Fgnh5roL2Z
— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) February 3, 2021Boilermakers:
Tuesday Newsday: In a recent #CCUS ? article, read what scientists believe will play a crucial part in saving us from climate-change induced devastation here: https://t.co/uSQPscKDd4@GlobalCCS pic.twitter.com/gphkY92PGi
— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) February 2, 2021Bricklayers:
Our member Mike Guerriero of Local 1 #NewYork is on @ToughAsNailsCBS. We are cheering for you, Mikey! #1u https://t.co/kW1RVQ4Src
— Bricklayers Union (@IUBAC) February 3, 2021California School Employees Association:
CSEA encourages @CAgovernor @GavinNewsom to appoint @RobBonta as #CA's next AG. He will be a defender of the defenseless, a fighter for fair dealing, a guardian of justice, and a caretaker of the California Dream. pic.twitter.com/WdBF08Fer7
— CSEA (@CSEA_Now) January 19, 2021Coalition of Black Trade Unionists:
CBTU is thrilled to congratulate our sister Clayola Brown, on her appointment as the AFL-CIO’s new Civil, Human and Women’s Rights Director. Clay’s stellar career has prepared her for this challenge, and she will be a fierce champion of equity. Congrats sister! @APRI_National pic.twitter.com/8HYLqAuhWJ
— CBTU (@CBTU72) February 3, 2021Coalition of Labor Union Women:
We LOVE this inspiring video! https://t.co/IGab68JG8w (via @WWLIorg) #WomenLeaders #WomenInGovernment
— CLUW National (@CLUWNational) January 31, 2021Communications Workers of America:
Instead of letting workers organize Amazon would rather harass them on the toilet. https://t.co/vswLbXdo28
— CWA (@CWAUnion) February 2, 2021Department for Professional Employees:
“The essence of trade unionism is social uplift. The labor movement has been the haven for the dispossessed, the despised, the neglected, the downtrodden, the poor.” - Labor leader A. Philip Randolph #1u #BlackHistoryMonth pic.twitter.com/WDvzUWrWqw
— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) February 3, 2021Electrical Workers:
"One of the many things we've learned from this pandemic is the power and importance of unions in making sure the backbone of our two countries, working families, are rewarded and protected for their valuable contributions." https://t.co/Po6EvszYun
— IBEW (@IBEW) February 3, 2021Farm Labor Organizing Committee:
February 5th we are vaccinating more Lucas County residents. If you are 70 years or older, or an employee of K-12 schools, you are eligible to be vaccinated at our Toledo office. Call 419-243-3456 or email flocoh@floc.com to confirm your spot! https://t.co/NKDX8iLjTk
— Farm Labor Organizing Committee (@SupportFLOC) February 2, 2021Fire Fighters:
Bernalillo County Fire Dept. creates #firehouse tour for students https://t.co/htPuqKExU9 @NMPFFA
— IAFF (@IAFFNewsDesk) February 3, 2021Heat and Frost Insulators:
Congratulations Local 37 and all of the Brothers and Sisters who have helped make our Local successful! We celebrate you on your 90 year milestone! pic.twitter.com/62z3PNZ2Qw
— Insulators Union ? (@InsulatorsUnion) February 3, 2021International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers:
#SHAME! I have a question for @StephenEWells, how much donor money have you wasted on these hundreds of hours of meetings? Union busting lawyers are expensive??? https://t.co/dwgrznTCVJ
— IFPTE (@IFPTE) February 2, 2021Ironworkers:
Following a wholly unique year, Mary Van Buren, the president of the Canadian Construction Association, shares with On-Site the organization’s expectations and the top issues it’s tracking heading into 2021.https://t.co/XuVfxePpUw
— Ironworkers. (@TheIronworkers) January 29, 2021Jobs With Justice:
Many cities don't record racial data on evictions, but we do know this — of all the eviction actions pursued during the pandemic, most were filed in predominately Black neighborhoods ??
Housing is a racial justice issue. Period.#BlackHistoryMonth https://t.co/T3IZIZ15ZA
Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:
We must #ProtectFamilies pic.twitter.com/rT2IQh81WV
— LCLAA (@LCLAA) February 3, 2021Laborers:
#LIUNA congrats @PeteButtigieg - who in now confirmed as the Secretary of Transportation by a Senate vote of 86-13. #infrastructureNOW https://t.co/EyPliYYS8k
— LIUNA (@LIUNA) February 3, 2021Machinists:
The Machinists are leading the fight on Capitol Hill for an extension of the airline Payroll Support Program (PSP) to keep tens of thousands of IAM members employed. https://t.co/8ol0JzsWps
— Machinists Union ✈️?? (@MachinistsUnion) February 3, 2021Metal Trades Department:
Civil rights and workers rights go hand in hand. On the 3rd day of #BlackHistoryMonth we highlight Velma Hopkins who in the 1940s led 10,000 workers in a fight for better pay and racial and gender equality for workers of R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company. https://t.co/zUsbsptAmW pic.twitter.com/OgWBdwjNuk
— Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) February 3, 2021Mine Workers:
“Now Consol needs to live up to its obligation under the law and ensure that these retirees – all of whom worked for Consol – get the health care it promised them and they earned through decades of incredibly hard work.” - President Cecil E. Robertshttps://t.co/35pR72dnjd
— United Mine Workers (@MineWorkers) February 3, 2021Musical Artists:
Visit https://t.co/c31Mzi8ZQx to read Ray Menard's open letter to President Biden (@potus) and Vice President Harris (@vp) about the need for Arts funding & an Arts leader in the Cabinet! Also available on AGMA's website. pic.twitter.com/8HCDeUAV6d
— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) January 21, 2021National Air Traffic Controllers Association:
UPDATE: While the COVID-19 national emergency has stopped most activities everywhere in our country, NATCA’s members know we’re seeing less traffic at many facilities. pic.twitter.com/Q5Jookb7BV
— NATCA (@NATCA) February 3, 2021National Association of Letter Carriers:
Gerald R. Bielak was recently honored for 3️⃣5️⃣ years of NALC membership! Gerald is a member of Buffalo-Western New York Branch 3. Thank you for more than three decades of membership, and congratulations! #UnionStrong #PostalProud pic.twitter.com/h2xnpuOcm5
— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) February 3, 2021National Day Laborer Organizing Network:
"We filed a complaint, and we fought back bc we weren't paid what they owe us, but i was threatened, they said they'd call immigration."
And Biden can act to address this crisis today. #DALE #TrabajoSiMigraNo
con @la_colaborativa #ndlon @ULAnewhaven y mas! pic.twitter.com/KHkMY7Tj4G
National Domestic Workers Alliance:
Sandra, a cleaner and Nanny in New York, had her hours and pay cut back during the pandemic and worried about paying rent. Then, she came down with COVID-19 and worried about her life. https://t.co/OmjYClrhGw
— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) February 3, 2021National Federation of Federal Employees:
The average American is unaware that the transition for a new presidential administration begins long before the November general election. NFFE members stand to benefit from our early and consistent engagement w/the Biden transition team. https://t.co/RChBgpBo81
— NFFE (@NFFE_Union) January 27, 2021National Nurses United:
To kick off #BlackHistoryMonth— in a year when fascist white supremacy has already reared its ugly head— we lift up
✨Salaria Kea✨
a Black nurse born in 1917 Milledgeville, Georgia, who helped fight against the fascist invasion of Spain.
A thread (1/10) #NurseTwitter pic.twitter.com/2moTd3rxNV
National Taxi Workers Alliance:
Undocumented immigrants pay billions into a tax system from which they will never benefit
Not even during the worst economic crisis in a century. @NYGovCuomo: #FundExcludedWorkers NOW!https://t.co/K6UhjkDu8E
NFL Players Association:
You don't want to miss this conversation with some of the most inspiring athletes who are changing the narrative around mental health–@haydenrhurst, @dsleon45, @SollyThomas90, @21DM_ERA & @thatLGUY join us at 2pm ET. https://t.co/SJqiGBZ6fL
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) February 3, 2021North America's Building Trades Unions:
NABTU President Sean McGarvey issued the following statement in recognition of #BlackHistoryMonth
?: https://t.co/kVsRl191FK pic.twitter.com/ZOk3yZ3XDj
Office and Professional Employees:
Today we honor Shirley Chisholm: teacher, activist, congresswoman, presidential candidate and fighter for justice. #BlackHistoryMonth #1u pic.twitter.com/lujEgL9sGH
— OPEIU #PassThePROAct ✊ (@OPEIU) February 2, 2021Painters and Allied Trades:
What Amazon is able to get away with is what employers nationwide are allowed to get away with and spotlights just how broken our labor laws are today.
Some of these shameful practices by employers should be illegal and would be if the PRO Act was the law of the land.
Plasterers and Cement Masons:
With this Congress we will finally see some great labor legislation get passed. Help by sending a letter in support of the National Apprenticeship Act! And please share with your friends and family. https://t.co/G1v5ZVD65l
— OPCMIA International (@opcmiaintl) February 2, 2021Professional Aviation Safety Specialists:
PASS congratulates @USDOT Secretary @PeteButtigieg & applaud secretary for his pro-worker positions; know he will ensure that the FAA employees we represent have resources & staffing necessary to perform their safety critical work on behalf of America. https://t.co/ADp7g2lvgy
— PASS (@PASSNational) February 2, 2021Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:
"[The @BAmazonUnion] has always been and will continue to always be the people of Bessemer, the workers at Amazon coming together. This was theirs, and will always be theirs" -@RWDSU organizer Joshua Brewer #BAmazonUnion #UnionBustingIsDisgusting #1uhttps://t.co/Ii8Ez5MtKZ
— RWDSU (@RWDSU) February 3, 2021SAG-AFTRA:
Production is coming back! Check out our deep dive into the booming Chicago production scene Thurs, Feb 11 at 9:30 am PT/12:30 pm ET. RSVP today https://t.co/ymM1jZTK8b #sagaftramembers
— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) February 3, 2021School Administrators:
"A seasoned teacher, principal, district administrator and state official, Cardona is a bold and welcome choice by President Biden for US Secretary of Education. Read our full statement." @EvieBlad @laurameckler @drsuperville @ngaudiano @laurenonthehill @kalynbelsha @emrichards pic.twitter.com/kNwDp66qsp
— The School Leader (@AFSAUnion) February 3, 2021Seafarers:
Pandemic Doesn’t Stop SIU Philanthropy - Seafarers International Union https://t.co/r8Erjmfcf1
— Seafarers Union (@SeafarersUnion) February 2, 2021Solidarity Center:
Labor lawyers & worker rights activists in conversation to share strategies to ensure workers worldwide have access to justice--check it out! @ILAW_Network @CorpAcctLab @ituc https://t.co/e5PGVckqks
— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) February 3, 2021TCU/IAM:
A moving tribute to the dedicated @MTA @MetroNorth @LIRR men and women that tragically lost their lives to COVID. We must dedicate ourselves to protecting those that keep us moving. #WearAMask #1u https://t.co/f8s1KWJhoH
— Transportation Communications Union/IAM (@TCUnionHQ) January 27, 2021The NewsGuild-CWA:
BREAKING: As vulture hedge fund Alden Global Capital moves to take majority control of @TribPub, the NewsGuild is asking the U.S. Secretary of the Treasury to conduct an investigation into Alden’s secretive offshore ownership structure. @UStreasuryhttps://t.co/gMibOjqfPS
— NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) February 3, 2021Theatrical Stage Employees:
Congratulations to the IA kin behind this year's Golden Globe nominated productions! https://t.co/9dwyfPVNd3
— IATSE (@IATSE) February 3, 2021Transport Workers Union:
Public transit is a civil right. But it’s being systematically denied from millions of people in thousands of communities across the country.
Catch the #TransitEquityDay Community Hearing on Transit Equity tomorrow Feb. 3 at 3 PM ET.
Join us: https://t.co/b66P24o4Ea pic.twitter.com/Exo1Tb7R2d
Transportation Trades Department:
UPDATE: A federal mask mandate is now in effect for all travelers on planes, trains, busses & ferries. Transportation labor initially called for a federal mask mandate in July. It was rejected by the Trump Administration the same day former President Trump came down w/ covid. https://t.co/laHiuhKPgn
— Transp. Trades Dept. (@TTDAFLCIO) February 2, 2021UAW:
The labor movement and civil rights movement have historically shared one core belief: ALL people have the right to earn a fair and dignified living — regardless of race, occupation, or socio-economic status. https://t.co/hVWsFEHpLm
— UAW (@UAW) February 3, 2021Union Label and Service Trades Department:
Teacher: What Americans keep getting wrong about our unions during the pandemic - The Washington Post https://t.co/xumbgM8QI9
— Union Label Dept. (@ULSTD_AFLCIO) February 3, 2021Union Veterans Council:
More than 4,000 veterans have died from Covid in VA care. And thousands more are losing jobs, economic security, and support.
Let’s get this bill passed and get relief for all those who need it #Veterans #CovidReliefhttps://t.co/lrgaPUGru6
UNITE HERE:
A pandemic that took our loved ones & our jobs.
A Trump presidency fueled by white supremacy.
An anti-worker GOP majority bent on maintaining power, no matter the cost.
2020 challenged all of us. But rather than give up, UNITE HERE fought back—& took back what's ours. pic.twitter.com/62XWvQD3Mz
United Food and Commercial Workers:
.@Kroger is closing grocery stores to retaliate against a new law mandating #HazardPay for brave workers risking #COVID exposure daily to feed our families.
No company is above the law and this ruthless money grab will not go unanswered. @UFCW statement: https://t.co/ZtWPEZ38Lk pic.twitter.com/5BYxFsrln4
United Steelworkers:
How Poverty Makes Workers Less Productive https://t.co/yxuoKRnh7r #1u
— United Steelworkers (@steelworkers) February 3, 2021Utility Workers:
Did you know that you can access the full #UWUA magazine online? Take a moment to read all of the happenings going on in YOUR Union! https://t.co/T4fi0eG7sx pic.twitter.com/D2Hzijm2jF
— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) February 3, 2021Working America:
Warehouse workers in Bessemer, AL have come together to make Amazon a safer, better place to work! @NYT shares the story of how and why @BAmazonUnion workers began organizing with @RWDSU. #BAmazonUnion #UnionYes #1u https://t.co/p4kjLgnzyO
— Working America (@WorkingAmerica) January 25, 2021Writers Guild of America, East:
And the nominees for the 2021 #WritersGuildAwards in Television, New Media, News, Radio/Audio, and Promotional Writing are...https://t.co/Ew6GdRjMwf
— Writers Guild of America, East (@WGAEast) February 3, 2021 Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 02/05/2021 - 13:04Black History Month Profiles: Kendrick Roberson
This year, for Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only the conditions for working people in their community, but also across the country. Today's profile is Kendrick Roberson.
Kendrick Roberson, a member of AFGE Local 2429, is an adjunct professor at the prestigious Pepperdine University in Malibu, California. He is the chair of AFGE's National YOUNG committee and is heavily involved in political and legislative issues, primarily the Black Lives Matter movement, through his advocacy and activism. In his private life, Roberson is a doctoral candidate at the University of Southern California. Roberson also previously spent time as a Department of Defense steward.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 02/05/2021 - 10:01Service + Solidarity Spotlight: WGAE Supports Investigation into Racism, Misogyny Allegations at CBS
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 Writers Guild of America, East, released a statement Wednesday regarding an on-going investigation into alleged misconduct at CBS Television Stations. Some current and former employees of CBS affiliate stations allege they have experienced widespread racism and misogyny in the workplace. “The Writers Guild of America, East has reached out to CBS regarding the investigation of [alleged] misconduct by executives at local CBS television newsrooms. The union made it clear to CBS that employees must be able to tell their truth to investigators without fear of retaliation from management. Further, we asked CBS to meet with us for a contract-obligated Diversity Committee meeting,” the union said.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 02/05/2021 - 09:07
