Worker Wins: A Huge Step Forward
Our latest roundup of worker wins includes numerous examples of working people organizing, bargaining and mobilizing for a better life.
Alaska Flight Attendants Overwhelmingly Ratify Contract: Late last week, Alaska Airlines flight attendants—who are represented by the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA-CWA)—ratified a new three-year contract with 95% of members in favor of the deal. With a remarkable 91% voting participation, this industry standard-setting deal is being celebrated across membership. Highlights of this agreement include double-digit raises for the 7,000-member bargaining unit, boarding pay, company 401(k) match increase, higher per diems and more. “This contract will immediately and significantly improve the lives of Alaska Flight Attendants,” said Jeffrey Peterson, AFA-CWA MEC president at Alaska Airlines in a press release. “Alaska Flight Attendants’ solidarity pushed management to recognize our critical role to the safety and success of this airline. This contract also raises the foundation for the new joint Alaska-Hawaiian negotiations following the merger.”
NBC Digital NewsGuild Secures Tentative Three-Year Contract Deal: Editorial staff at NBC News, NBC News NOW and Today, represented by NewsGuild of New York, TNG-CWA Local 31003, reached a tentative agreement (TA) with the network on Friday. The scope of the deal covers approximately 300 digital staff who work as reporters, producers, editors, designers, videographers and in other roles. This victory has been years in the making: NBC NewsGuild members first organized in 2019 and, if this TA is ratified, it will be their first contract. The contract includes wins like the establishment of minimum salary floors, job security protections, an end to forced arbitration in cases of discrimination and harassment, and more. “This contract is a huge step forward for journalists at NBC News,” said Tate James, documentary video editor and unit chair in a NewsGuild of New York press release. “We will now have the job security essential to fighting for transparency and accountability without fear.” “NYGuild members contribute to the reach and value of NBC News every day,” said Susan DeCarava, president of The NewsGuild of New York. “I’m glad that NBC is finally recognizing their essential work by agreeing to a contract that enshrines the wages and workplace protections they deserve.”
Maryland State Supervisors Overwhelmingly Vote to Join AFSCME: In a victory more than a year in the making, nearly 5,000 supervisors who work for the state of Maryland have voted to form a union with AFSCME Maryland Council 3. State supervisors worked with AFSCME to pass legislation last year that granted them collective bargaining rights in Maryland. “With our AFSCME union, we as supervisors can finally have a say in workplace policies that affect us, such as expanded hours, how our scheduling works, how comp time works, and more,” said Michael Lawson, acting assistant superintendent and a bus maintenance supervisor at the Maryland Transit Administration. “We are experts at how our agencies and offices operate, and now we have a seat at the table to weigh in on decisions that shape our work, our services, and our agencies.”
Equity Reaches New Developmental Work Agreement with Broadway League: The National Council of Actors’ Equity Association (Equity) voted last week to ratify a new five-year Development Agreement with The Broadway League, ending an eight-month strike against early-stage development work. This agreement is used during the development of new works by members of The Broadway League—the trade organization representing theater producers and owners—before entering into an intended Production Contract engagement. The previous version of this contract expired in February of last year, after which the union unanimously voted to authorize a strike. Highlights of the new agreement include a cumulative pay increase of over 8%, more pre-production time for stage managers and the establishment of a new joint working group between the union and employers. “Today is a day to celebrate the hard work of Equity’s team in getting us back into the rehearsal halls and making some magic,” said Equity Negotiating Team Chair Stephen Bogardus in a press release. “The talent and commitment our members bring to their work is vital in transporting what’s on paper to the stage, and Development work sessions are a crucial step in that process. This was a long strike, but it was worth it. I know our members are looking forward to digging into the work we love doing while being more fairly compensated for that labor.”
Victory: Federal Court Finds Firing of Probationary Federal Employees Illegal: On Thursday, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California granted a temporary restraining order against the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and its acting director, finding that the termination of probationary federal employees was illegal because OPM had no authority to order it. The coalition of plaintiffs on the case include AFGE, AFSCME, United Nurses Associations of California/Union of Health Care Professionals (UNAC/UHCP) and various community ally groups. “This ruling…is an important initial victory for patriotic Americans across this country who were illegally fired from their jobs by an agency that had no authority to do so,” said Everett Kelley, national president of the AFGE. “These are rank-and-file workers who joined the federal government to make a difference in their communities, only to be suddenly terminated due to this administration’s disdain for federal employees and desire to privatize their work.” “We know this decision is just a first step, but it gives federal employees a respite,” said AFSCME President Lee Saunders. “While they work to protect public health and safety, federal workers have faced constant harassment from unelected billionaires and anti-union extremists whose only goal is to give themselves massive tax breaks at the expense of working people. We will continue to move this case forward with our partners until federal workers are protected against these baseless terminations.”
UAW Members Reach Tentative Agreement with Rolls-Royce, Averting Strike: UAW Local 933 announced that it secured a last-minute tentative agreement (TA) with Rolls-Royce late Wednesday night, right before their current contract expired. Local 933 represents over 800 workers at the Indianapolis facility where members manufacture aircraft engines for contracts with the U.S. government. Highlights of the deal include the elimination of wage tiers, profit-sharing, improved retirement benefits and a cost-of-living adjustment. In a huge victory for the bargaining unit, under this new TA, the lowest-paid workers would see a wage increase of nearly 70% over the lifetime of the contract. “Winning strong agreements is only possible when our members are organized and united,” said UAW President Shawn Fain. “It only happens when the company looks over the shoulder of our bargaining team and sees an army of fired up and fed up members who are ready to do what it takes to win what they deserve. That is exactly what happened here this week when hundreds of members showed up to rally in support of their bargaining team and show the company that they were ready to strike if needed.”
Workers at St. Anselm Secure Election Victory Despite Aggressive Union-Busting: In the midst of intense anti-union pressure from management, workers at popular Washington, D.C., restaurant St. Anselm successfully voted to form a union with UNITE HERE Local 25. The lucrative dining spot is operated by STARR Restaurant Group—which refused to voluntarily recognize the union earlier this month—and the new bargaining unit covers both the front- and back-of-house workers. This victory was the first of three STARR-operated restaurants in the city to hold elections to join Local 25 as part of a larger DC Restaurant Workers Rising organizing effort. Staff are celebrating this powerful victory, and are eager to sit down at the bargaining table and secure a contract with improvements to working conditions and wages. “I’m so proud of what we won today because I know it means real change is coming—in our paychecks, our benefits, and how workers at STARR restaurants are treated,” said Bridget Killburn, a baker at St. Anselm. “I’m excited for my colleagues at Pastis and Le Diplomate to join us in winning their union in the coming weeks.”
Reconsidered Goods Thrift Store Workers Unanimously Vote to Form Union: On Monday, the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union-UFCW (RWDSU-UFCW) announced that workers at Reconsidered Goods in Greensboro, North Carolina, voted unanimously to form a union. Staff at the thrift store have become the second retail location in the city to join RWDSU-UFCW this year after their union brothers, sisters and siblings at REI Greensboro won their election last month. But the path to get here wasn’t easy: management attempted to exclude two people from the proposed bargaining unit, forcing workers to go on strike until all eligible staff could vote. Members cited concerns like safety issues, working conditions, wages and scheduling as core focuses for when they enter bargaining. “There has been no doubt in my mind that we would win this election,” said fabric specialist Yvonne Rabel. “We’ve been working hard for over a year to build a sense of community and camaraderie with each other….Our community has been nothing but supportive of our goals to ensure a safer work environment, and we’re going to continue to work toward these goals during negotiations. I can’t say whether I expect our directors to be collaborative or not, but I’m hopeful we can work on a solution that includes the workers having a say in the decisions that affect them.”
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 03/04/2025 - 12:06Fed Up and Taking Action
The government can work for billionaires or it can work for working people—but not both.
So when Elon Musk created his own unaccountable pseudo-government department, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), to fire federal workers and jeopardize the programs working people rely on, we launched our own “Department of People of Who Work for a Living (DPWL)” to hold these billionaires accountable.
The DPWL was out in force last week as working people participated in more than 104 actions in 31 states and Washington, D.C. Some unions and working people planned rallies, others scheduled meetings with their members of Congress, and some attended town halls to speak out.
Here are some highlights from workers who spoke at last week’s protests against DOGE’s actions:
“I'm sad that I lost my job. But I'm also sad I'm not going to be able to help these people anymore who desperately need it,” said fired Environmental Protection Agency employee Nyla at a rally in Chicago.
“I’ve wanted to work for [the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration] NOAA a long time,” said an anonymous protester in Juneau, Alaska. “If I cared about money, I would have gone to Wall Street, but I care about our environment and our people. And NOAA provides a lot of services to Alaska, the rural and coastal communities here really get a lot of information from us, and I’m worried.”
“I had to apply for unemployment, and on the very same day I did that, Elon Musk tweeted a meme calling the 10% of the poorest Americans members of the parasite class,” said Kristin Jenn, a fired federal worker in Austin, Texas.
When you think of federal government workers, you may think of Washington, D.C., but the truth is 85% of federal employees live and work all over the country, with large numbers in states like California, Texas, Florida and Georgia.
Job cuts are being felt nationwide, hurting communities, local economies and services in red and blue states alike.
That’s why we’ve launched the DPWL website to share information and resources for workers and communities affected by these attacks on federal workers.
See our map, take action and learn more about how unelected billionaires and their agenda are affecting working people.
Thank you for supporting America’s working families.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 03/04/2025 - 11:10Action Alert: Protect Our Kids: Find an Action Today Near You!
Today, March 4, educators, students, parents and community allies will stand up against assaults on public education and on opportunity for America’s kids.
The American Federation of Teachers (AFT) is calling on lawmakers to strengthen, not undermine, our local public schools and the services they provide to children, families and communities. Find an action near you happening today!
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 03/04/2025 - 11:00Women's History Month Profiles: Sylvia J. Ramos
For Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Sylvia J. Ramos of the Communications Workers of America (CWA).
Sylvia J. Ramos began her career in 1981 at Southwestern Bell in San Antonio, where she held various roles, including bilingual service representative and job steward with CWA Local 6143. She chaired the organizing and mobilizing committees, led successful organizing campaigns, and received the AFL-CIO “A Woman’s Place Is in Her Union” award in 1998. Ramos later became an AT&T strategist and CWA staff representative, and chaired many bargaining committees. In 2023, she made history as the first Latina chief of staff at CWA, where she advocates for workers’ rights, including the impact of artificial intelligence on labor.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 03/04/2025 - 10:27Tags: Women's History Month
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Maryland State Supervisors Overwhelmingly Vote to Join AFSCME
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
In a victory more than a year in the making, nearly 5,000 supervisors who work for the state of Maryland have voted to form a union with AFSCME Maryland Council 3.
State supervisors worked with AFSCME to pass legislation last year that granted them collective bargaining rights in Maryland.
“With our AFSCME union, we as supervisors can finally have a say in workplace policies that affect us, such as expanded hours, how our scheduling works, how comp time works, and more,” said Michael Lawson, acting assistant superintendent and a bus maintenance supervisor at the Maryland Transit Administration. “We are experts at how our agencies and offices operate, and now we have a seat at the table to weigh in on decisions that shape our work, our services, and our agencies.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 03/04/2025 - 10:21Tags: Organizing
Women's History Month Profiles: Patricia Redding
For Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Patricia Redding of the Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE).
Patricia Redding has been an IATSE member for seven years. She serves on her local’s women’s and diversity, equity and inclusion committees, and volunteers with food pantries and holiday toy drives her local participates in. Her inspirations are Michelle Obama, retired IATSE Vice President C. Faye Harper and fellow Local 479 sister Jennifer Hutchins. “Being an IATSE member means a lot to me. I was hungry to learn more about my union and wanted to be in a position to give more to our union members.”
Kenneth Quinnell Sun, 03/02/2025 - 10:46Women's History Month Profiles: Brittney Davidson
For Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Brittney Davidson of the Heat and Frost Insulators (HFIU).
Brittney Davidson isn’t just breaking glass ceilings—she’s smashing them with a sledgehammer. First female executive board member of Local 119? Check. First female trainer of the local? Check. Financial trustee? Sergeant-at-arms? You bet. Trailblazing comes naturally to Davidson. She isn’t just good at the job—she’s great. She trains the next generation, makes sure the work’s done right and keeps the union’s future positive. She’s got the grit, the know-how and the leadership to back it all up.
Kenneth Quinnell Sat, 03/01/2025 - 10:46Strike Totals Remain High: 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.
Brightline's 'Onboard Service' Employees Vote to Join Union: “About 100 Brightline employees will join the Transport Workers Union (TWU) following a vote with the National Mediation Board last month. In a news release after the Jan. 14 vote, the Transport Workers Union of America said, ‘this is the largest newly organized group of railroad workers nationwide in over 20 years.’”
Actors’ Equity And The Broadway League Reach Agreement On Thorny Issues Around New Work Development: “Actors’ Equity Association has reached a deal with the Broadway League on a new five-year Development Agreement, resolving an eight-month strike prohibiting Equity members’ participation in early stages of development work. The National Council of Actors’ Equity Association, the labor union representing more than 51,000 professional actors and stage managers in live theatre, announced today that it had voted to ratify a new five-year Development Agreement, concluding an eight-month strike against The Broadway League, the trade organization representing theater producers and owners.”
The U.S. Postal Service Is More Efficient Than You Think. Privatizing It Could Cause Problems for Many: “‘The Postal Office remains the most affordable way to ship,’ Brian Renfroe, president of the National Association of Letter Carriers, told CNN. ‘The destruction of any part of the public service we provide is going to have one bottom line result for the customers, it’s going to cost more and take longer to get there.’ ‘It really comes down to the core meaning of a public service,’ he said. ‘The Post Office is going to serve you at the same cost no matter where you are. That really should be the very definition of a public service.’”
Reconsidered Goods Unionizes: “Reconsidered Goods is nestled on the corner of the Food Lion on Spring Garden Street, across the street from Pho Hien Vuong. Unlike its surrounding businesses, Reconsidered Goods is a 501c nonprofit organization that takes donated materials and helps divert them from landfills, putting them into the hands of artists, makers, teachers, children, and other reuse advocates to create something new. Their mission is to promote sustainability, environmental awareness, community engagement, and creative expression through reuse, education, and the arts. Unfortunately, despite the organization’s noble morals, the staff of Reconsidered Goods have had enough. Due to safety regulations, lack of training, and more the workers have banded together to try and unionize to get these policies changed.”
Workers at D.C.'s St. Anselm Secure Unionization as STARR Group Challenges Vote Outcome: “Hundreds of employees at some of D.C.'s most lucrative restaurants are overjoyed following the news of their union vote. On Friday, St. Anselm employees voted 51-42 in favor of unionizing. In mid-January employees with five restaurants: Le Diplomate, Pastis, and St. Anselm, operated by STARR Restaurant Group; and Rasika and Modena, operated by Knightsbridge restaurant group, announced they were organizing a union with UNITE HERE Local 25. The unit covers the front and back of house and includes servers, bussers, dishwashers, cooks and bakers.”
Keystone Ski Patrol Union Votes to Ratify New Contract Following Negotiations: “Nearly all 81 members of the Keystone Ski Patrol Union voted to accept a new contract with Keystone Resort that will last through the 2026-2027 ski season. The announcement follows months of back and forth between management at Vail Resorts and the union that formed in 2024. Union bargaining team member Jake Randall said that after workers at Keystone’s sister resort in Park City Utah went on strike, Vail Resorts was ready to come to the table. ‘We actually came to an agreement pretty quickly after the strike ended,’ Randall said. ‘We put it to a vote with overwhelming support. We did have a couple no votes in there, but the sentiment of the group is that we made a lot of progress with this contract.’”
Picketing May Have Peaked but Union Strike Totals Remain High: “Unions led fewer strikes against U.S. employers last year than in 2022 or 2023, according to Bloomberg Law labor data. But the 236 walkouts called in 2024 still represent the third-highest annual total in almost two decades, suggesting that the post-pandemic trend of labor unrest is still far from over. After unions initiated only 86 strikes in shutdown-riven 2020, strikes took place with increasing frequency in the ensuing three years—from 164 in 2021 to 317 in 2022 to 356 in 2023—as workers sought to assert more control over their job security and compensation. It took until 2024 for the tide of strikes to subside (to 236) rather than rise.”
Children’s Theatre Company Ratifies 1st Ever Contract With IATSE: “A state theatre company has ratified its first-ever contract with a theatre union. The Children's Theatre Company (CTC) in Minneapolis has completed an almost two-year process and come to terms with the International Alliance of Theatrical State Employees (IATSE) Local 13.”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 02/28/2025 - 12:02Black History Month Profiles: Alfred Winters
For Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently actively making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Alfred Winters of the Heat and Frost Insulators (HFIU).
Alfred Winters is currently in his fourth year of HFIU Local 1's apprenticeship program. Since starting, he has proven to be an asset to the local. Winters works with Brand Safeway in the field. In 2024, he represented Local 1 at the Regional Apprentice Competition, showcasing both his expertise and his commitment to excellence in the trade. He serves as a delegate to the Southwestern Illinois Building Trades Council, where he plays a key role in advocating for the interests of the union. His representation of Local 1 at career fairs has been instrumental in attracting and encouraging minority workers to join the trade.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 02/28/2025 - 10:03Tags: Black History Month
Black History Month Profiles: Yusuf Al-Shabazz
For Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently actively making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Yusuf Al-Shabazz of UNITE HERE.
Yusuf Al-Shabazz got his start with UNITE HERE Local 11 when he helped organize to bring the union into the American Airlines (AA) airport lounges at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport. He was fired unfairly from the AA Lounges for organizing the union in 2023, and his case is still pending with the NLRB. He then got a job as a cook at the Hyatt Tempe Mission Palms and now serves as a chief shop steward of his co-workers. In the recent contract fight at Hyatt, 21-year-old Al-Shabazz helped lead his co-workers out on strike. They went on to win an incredible contract with life-changing raises and a pension. His sister is also a member of Local 11 with Starbucks at the Phoenix Airport.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 02/28/2025 - 10:03Tags: Black History Month
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Workers at St. Anselm Secure Election Victory Despite Aggressive Union-Busting
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
In the midst of intense anti-union pressure from management, workers at popular Washington, D.C., restaurant St. Anselm successfully voted to form a union with UNITE HERE Local 25.
The lucrative dining spot is operated by STARR Restaurant Group—which refused to voluntarily recognize the union earlier this month—and the new bargaining unit covers both the front- and back-of-house workers. This victory was the first of three STARR-operated restaurants in the city to hold elections to join Local 25 as part of a larger DC Restaurant Workers Rising organizing effort. Staff are celebrating this powerful victory, and are eager to sit down at the bargaining table and secure a contract with improvements to working conditions and wages.
“I’m so proud of what we won today because I know it means real change is coming—in our paychecks, our benefits, and how workers at STARR restaurants are treated,” said Bridget Killburn, a baker at St. Anselm. “I’m excited for my colleagues at Pastis and Le Diplomate to join us in winning their union in the coming weeks.”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 02/28/2025 - 10:02Tags: Organizing
Hands off Medicaid: 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:
We are pleased to announce that we have reached a deal on a new Development Agreement! Work on this agreement may resume immediately. Read our press release for details - https://t.co/OkO4ClwZll pic.twitter.com/a8405Cblcd
— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) February 27, 2025
AFGE:
AFGE will challenge any unlawful terminations of our members and federal employees across the country.https://t.co/CM2zsuFe3W
— AFGE (@AFGENational) February 22, 2025
AFSCME:
A big welcome to nearly 5K supervisors who work for the State of Maryland. They overwhelmingly chose @AFSCMEMaryland as their union. https://t.co/krF8jmds3V
— AFSCME (@AFSCME) February 27, 2025
Alliance for Retired Americans:
BREAKING: Retirees affected by WEP/GPO repeal can expect to get retroactive payments backdated to January 2024 by the end of March, according to SSA officials. https://t.co/HdQIgj1wIf
— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) February 27, 2025
Amalgamated Transit Union:
Tonight, International President John Costa hosted a virtual town hall for our Local President/Business Agents in the U.S. to acknowledge and strategize around the landscape of the first month of the Trump administration and the impact on our members and industry. The town hall… pic.twitter.com/rmODAH7Uch
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) February 27, 2025
American Federation of Musicians:
More than 1,000 musicians joined together to release this album, in protest to the UK government’s proposed changes to copyright law, which would allow artificial intelligence companies to use artists’ copyrighted work without permission. #isthiswhatwewant…
— AFM (@The_AFM) February 26, 2025
American Federation of Teachers:
Hands off Medicaid: Send a letter here https://t.co/MWHtW0cJIw#DontCutMyMedicaid pic.twitter.com/y3Tb2sOmWZ
— AFT (@AFTunion) February 21, 2025
Boilermakers:
“As data centers and AI-driven energy demands surge, the Boilermakers are positioned at the forefront of emerging energy technologies.” - Johnny Baca, Director, M.O.R.E. Work Investment Fund. Read more from IBB's presence at PowerGen2025. ➡️ https://t.co/VXdP4pOoay pic.twitter.com/3qhEvLHbyp
— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) February 27, 2025
Bricklayers:
We were thrilled to be a part of the 30th annual Bowling for Gold tournament hosted by the Community Services Agency!
The BAC sent 5 teams to help in raising money for union members and their families in need!#BestHandsInTheBowlingLanes #SkilledTrades #Apprenticeships pic.twitter.com/7l6ltGgHSH
— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) February 27, 2025
Communications Workers of America:
Solidarity with @UPTECWA members on strike! https://t.co/8TlDRoQjbO
— CWA (@CWAUnion) February 26, 2025
Department for Professional Employees:
Solidarity with @WGAEast/@MSNBCunion members! https://t.co/vyZo61vxGO
— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) February 26, 2025
Electrical Workers:
Good choice! https://t.co/435m1D5ze7
— IBEW (@IBEW) February 26, 2025
Fire Fighters:
🚨 Big win for fair pay! After a hard-fought battle, Osceola, Fla., battalion chiefs will now receive the overtime pay they deserve. 👏 #UnionStrong #FairPay #IAFF
https://t.co/zcHjNw9dQ5
— International Association of Fire Fighters (@IAFFofficial) February 27, 2025
Heat and Frost Insulators:
Become a Union Member 💪
Whether you have experience working in the Insulation industry or are new to the trade — now is the time to earn a higher wage & better benefits.
➡️Learn more & become a member today: https://t.co/yjahHngRTW#InsulatorsUnion #Insulators #InsulatorPride… pic.twitter.com/QlXF7OlH6l
— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) February 26, 2025
International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers:
IFPTE stands in Solidarity with Postal Workers and denounces any efforts to privatize our Postal Service https://t.co/Os8dNlCb7t
— IFPTE (@IFPTE) February 22, 2025
Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:
@AttorneyMartinez delivers an important message for the immigrant community from Capitol Hill during the reintroduction of The American Dream and Promise Act pic.twitter.com/kSc1TjAuHD
— LCLAA (@LCLAA) February 27, 2025
Labor Heritage Foundation:
🔥 Powerful speeches & inspiring music at last night’s MLK “Gonna Take Us All” Ball! 🎶✊ A packed crowd at McGinty’s heard from Jamie Raskin, Sara Nelson & more, pushing back against attacks on workers. “By all means, keep moving.” #MLK #Solidarity #1uhttps://t.co/a7W04NGNud pic.twitter.com/mFCZ8DlkZa
— Labor Heritage (@LaborHeritage1) February 26, 2025
Laborers:
#TBT to LIUNA apprenticeship back in the day!
Our commitment to world-class training has never changed, but wow—our facilities sure have! From then to now, #LIUNA has been building stronger workers, safer job sites, and brighter futures.
#ThrowbackThursday #apprenticeship pic.twitter.com/ub3IBwVeBi
— LIUNA (@LIUNA) February 27, 2025
Machinists:
An overwhelming UNION YES from 60 Unifi Aviation (owned 49% by @Delta) ground handling workers based in San Jose, Calif., who last week voted to join our union!
Get the deets on the severe union-busting campaign these workers faced to get their union 🔽👀https://t.co/t1S1RetmQa
— Machinists Union (@MachinistsUnion) February 26, 2025
Mine Workers:
The January/February issue of the journal proudly features Belinda Biafore as its Associate Membership Spotlight.
Belinda Biafore is an Associate Member and long-time supporter of the United Mine Workers. Sister Biafore is the former West Virginia...https://t.co/5tMbj1wAGI
— United Mine Workers (@MineWorkers) February 27, 2025
Musical Artists:
AGMA Joins the Human Artistry Campaign to Advocate for the Rights of Artists in the Age of AI: https://t.co/c7MToluWjw @human_artistry pic.twitter.com/DfOcw6CSf6
— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) February 26, 2025
National Air Traffic Controllers Association:
Here’s what NATCA members accomplished last week pic.twitter.com/erXC7jAdZW
— NATCA (@NATCA) February 25, 2025
National Association of Letter Carriers:
ICYMI ➡️ The Social Security Administration announced that the agency will begin to pay retroactive benefits & will increase monthly benefit payments for those impacted by the WEP & GPO. For more info about this #SocialSecurityFairnessAct update, visit: https://t.co/icGoaW0Fdr
— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) February 27, 2025
National Domestic Workers Alliance:
Domestic workers are the cornerstone of a healthy economy. Yet, they have been excluded from our federal labor protections for far too long.
We must recognize their essential work and invest in a care infrastructure that genuinely supports the livelihoods of all Americans. pic.twitter.com/wuwZXN4hYI
— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) February 26, 2025
National Nurses United:
Nurses condemn the senseless, unacceptable violence at UPMC Memorial in Pennsylvania and @HCAhealthcare Florida Palms West Hospital.
Our employers must adopt nurse-led #WorkplaceViolencePrevention plans and safe staffing to protect staff and patients.https://t.co/L6Qv5G3ZRl
— NationalNursesUnited (@NationalNurses) February 25, 2025
NFL Players Association:
The 3rd edition of the NFLPA Team Report Cards is here! 📊
With free agency ahead, these insights help players evaluate workplace conditions across all 32 teams. Progress is happening, but there’s more work to do.
See the full list of team grades here: https://t.co/Dkn4WES7mn pic.twitter.com/WpgG218vVV
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) February 26, 2025
North America's Building Trades Unions:
“It makes all the sense in the world to work to recruit more women into the trades. Women want all the same Middle Class wages as men, and they want safety and a voice on the job. Women are good union members, and when unions are stronger, the Labor Movement is stronger.” -…
— The Building Trades (@NABTU) February 27, 2025
Office and Professional Employees:
OPEIU Local 40 nurses at Rochester Henry Ford Hospital are currently facing a critical situation, fighting for a fair contract after TWO LONG YEARS of negotiations with two different administrations.
Stand in solidarity with nurses → https://t.co/MtMMrdBSl2
— OPEIU | #UnionStrong (@OPEIU) February 27, 2025
Painters and Allied Trades:
This Black History Month, we honor the relentless fight for justice that began with the Black Lives Matter movement. From breaking barriers within our union to standing shoulder to shoulder for equality, we push for a future where every life is valued and every voice heard. pic.twitter.com/O6Bevz9ul3
— IUPAT (@GoIUPAT) February 20, 2025
Professional Aviation Safety Specialists:
On @CNN @PASSprezdc Spero talked safety critical jobs @FAANews represented by PASS & the PEOPLE! "It seems to be a pattern of cyberbullying—let’s call it that. Folks are rattled, they are shaken. Instead of concentrating on their jobs, it's chaos & panic"https://t.co/7s8xsi5z5Y
— PASS (@PASSNational) February 24, 2025
Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:
CONTRACT VICTORY: congrats to @RWDSU Mid South Council members at Fresh Mark in Salem, Ohio! These workers recently ratified a new contract that includes the largest wage increases of any prior union contract at their facility!
Learn more: https://t.co/LFcmxkVAgj pic.twitter.com/BaAYHiHZln
— RWDSU (@RWDSU) February 27, 2025
Roofers and Waterproofers:
Join a #union, and chances are you'll live longer and happier! Makes sense...
- higher wages,
- quality benefits, like health insurance,
- better workplace safety standards,
- less stress knowing you'll receive a pension in retirement.https://t.co/SckxkfKUA3
— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) February 26, 2025
SAG-AFTRA:
We are deeply saddened by the death of Gene Hackman and his wife. The SAG Award- and five-time Oscar-winner was among the finest actors of his generation. His tremendous legacy of work will live on. May he #RIP. #SagAftraMember since 1959 https://t.co/hlBf038ieq
— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) February 27, 2025
Service Employees International Union (SEIU):
💥Tariffs & deportations don’t protect workers—they divide us while corporations profit. The real solution? International solidarity. We must stand together across borders to fight exploitation and build power! pic.twitter.com/GGaD02L6rb
— SEIU (@SEIU) February 27, 2025
Theatrical Stage Employees:
Revitalizing America’s arts, media, and entertainment industries starts with investing in the people who make it happen.
These priorities would protect workers’ earnings, uphold safety and fair labor standards, and secure vital funding for cultural projects and productions. pic.twitter.com/TPb94CpKFA
— IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) February 27, 2025
Transport Workers Union:
TWU International Pres. Samuelsen greeting the hard-working members of Local 234 who operate & maintain the @SEPTA system in Philly. L234 secured a solid contract last year after a strategic & intense campaign with a strike authorization vote. @TwuSamuelsen pic.twitter.com/hmzxlVY1N6
— TWU (@transportworker) February 26, 2025
Transportation Trades Department:
Allies from across the labor movement joined @NALC_national in their rally yesterday to show this administration that we will fight to save the postal service. #FightLikeHell pic.twitter.com/kOn9K3Tx0d
— TTD | America's Transportation Unions (@TTDAFLCIO) February 25, 2025
UAW:
"Chants of 'What’s disgusting? Union busting!' could be heard all along Eastern Parkway. People from other institutions, including the Whitney Museum of American Art, were present to support their colleagues." @UAWRegion9Ahttps://t.co/77xP3F9p2r
— UAW (@UAW) February 27, 2025
Union Veterans Council:
Veterans feel ‘left behind’ and ‘disparaged’ after Trump’s government cuts: Iraq Veteran
Once again, the Union Veterans Council is on the frontlines, fighting for those who fought for us. https://t.co/Jp6ROkU3Jw via @msnbc
— Union Veterans Council🪖✊ (@unionveterans) February 27, 2025
UNITE HERE:
Black History Month Leader Spotlight ✨
Pierre Whitaker, Lead Service Attendant & UNITE HERE Local 23 Amtrak Chapter President—"For over a century we have been at the forefront of the fight to have our work respected, and despite many challenges, today we are stronger than ever." pic.twitter.com/WAHYgZkeN7
— UNITE HERE Local 23 (@unitehere23) February 26, 2025
United Food and Commercial Workers:
Nearly 100 @UFCWLocal152 members at Berks Foods have ratified a strong new contract!
The 3-year contract includes annual wage increases, a longevity bonus, affordable health benefits, improved vacation policies, & extended funeral leave.
➡️ https://t.co/ULa0ImD45B pic.twitter.com/Oq9LpoefeI
— UFCW (@UFCW) February 27, 2025
United Steelworkers:
Nellie Carabello, a former public sector worker and proud SOAR activist, shares how an eye-opening experience with harassment led her to embrace union activism. Hear her story in the latest Solidarity Works podcast—first in a series with SOAR activists! https://t.co/I6lC6EgKdt pic.twitter.com/OYnaGD85ni
— United Steelworkers #EverybodysUnion (@steelworkers) February 27, 2025
Utility Workers:
🛬 ICYMI: Our well-trained union siblings from @afa_cwa were heroes when Delta flight overturned in Toronto. https://t.co/MgEmY15fgB
— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) February 26, 2025
Writers Guild of America East:
Are you ok with the workers behind shows like Alone, The First 48, and Pawn Stars being disrespected by mgmt with substandard union contract proposals? Neither are we! The time for @WeAreITVA to agree to a fair contract is NOW.
Sign the petition: https://t.co/TFWxB0PbSI #1u
— Writers Guild of America East (@WGAEast) February 27, 2025
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 02/27/2025 - 12:45Black History Month Profiles: Willie Douglas
For Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently actively making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Willie Douglas of the Bricklayers.
Willie Douglas on what it meant to him to work on the Emmett Till house restoration project: “This project was an honor and a privilege to be a part of! It is a great feeling to know that, moving forward, my work and the work of our BAC apprentices will be mentioned in the same sentence as this historical landmark that is the home of one of the people that helped start the civil rights movement. The murder of Emmett Till was one the most horrendous things that has taken place in American history, but the result of what it sparked is truly amazing. I know that I would not have gotten this opportunity had it not been for the union and people like Hector Arellano trusting and believing in me. I am grateful and appreciative for his confidence in me to get this job done as well as every one of my union brothers and sisters that had a hand in this project.”
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 02/27/2025 - 10:01Tags: Black History Month
Black History Month Profiles: Elizabeth Ward-Robertson
For Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently actively making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Elizabeth Ward-Robertson of the Seattle Education Association.
Since joining the Seattle Education Association (SEA), an affiliate of the Washington State Labor Council and the Martin Luther King Jr. Labor Council, Elizabeth Ward-Robertson has played a pivotal role in advancing educational support and equity. She began her union advocacy work serving as the treasurer of the Seattle Association of Educational Office Professionals before being elected as president. She now serves as the elected director of the SEA Center for Racial and Social Justice, emphasizing equity and inclusion within the education system, fighting for equity for SEA members and the students they serve. Ward-Robinson centers equity in her work, striving to uplift SEA members and support marginalized communities.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 02/27/2025 - 10:01Tags: Black History Month
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Reconsidered Goods Thrift Store Workers Unanimously Vote to Form Union
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
On Monday, the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union-UFCW (RWDSU-UFCW) announced that workers at Reconsidered Goods in Greensboro, North Carolina, voted unanimously to form a union.
Staff at the thrift store have become the second retail location in the city to join RWDSU-UFCW this year after their union brothers, sisters and siblings at REI Greensboro won their election last month. But the path to get here wasn’t easy: management attempted to exclude two people from the proposed bargaining unit, forcing workers to go on strike until all eligible staff could vote. Members cited concerns like safety issues, working conditions, wages and scheduling as core focuses for when they enter bargaining.
“There has been no doubt in my mind that we would win this election,” said fabric specialist Yvonne Rabel. “We’ve been working hard for over a year to build a sense of community and camaraderie with each other….Our community has been nothing but supportive of our goals to ensure a safer work environment, and we’re going to continue to work toward these goals during negotiations. I can’t say whether I expect our directors to be collaborative or not, but I’m hopeful we can work on a solution that includes the workers having a say in the decisions that affect them.”
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 02/27/2025 - 09:59Workers Deserve Better: 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 X.
California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:
No matter who we voted for, we all know cutting Medicaid (Medi-cal) will be a disaster! Call your Congressperson today! #HandsOffMyMedicaid #handsoffourmedicaid pic.twitter.com/Y8rN2F4lQk
— California Federation of Labor Unions (@CaliforniaLabor) February 25, 2025
Colorado AFL-CIO:
We are strongly opposed to HB25-1206 Local Governments Tip Offsets for Tipped Employees. This misguided and inequitable bill would cut tipped workers wages— $4/hr in Denver, more than $8000/year. #coleg #copolitics pic.twitter.com/lbczJ6PZAi
— Colorado AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOCO) February 25, 2025
Connecticut AFL-CIO:
CT AFL-CIO President @EHawthorne3 notes the hypocrisy of a bill allowing the state to require staff to work in person: "Every member of the General Assembly has effectively participated in a hearing remotely"
*This public hearing allowed for in-person & remote participation* pic.twitter.com/sBCaxsL1XY
— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) February 20, 2025
Illinois AFL-CIO:
‼️ SAVE THE DATE‼️
The annual USA BBQ Bash Competition & Fundraiser is coming up in June!
June 14, 2025 | 12 - 5 pm
Torstenson Youth Conservation
Education Center
13735 Cook Rd., Pecatonica, IL 61063 pic.twitter.com/fKKMsnfMiB
— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) February 24, 2025
Kentucky State AFL-CIO:
🚨Kentucky workers deserve better. Say NO to HB 398!🚨
This bill puts profits over people, takes away local control, and puts workers' safety at risk.
Take action NOW—use this link to email your representative and demand they protect Kentucky workers: https://t.co/WHumShISv1
— Kentucky AFL-CIO (@aflcioky) February 19, 2025
Maine AFL-CIO:
"They are recklessly cutting and gutting vital services to give tax cuts to billionaires." - Matt Schlobohm, Maine AFL-CIO https://t.co/Qy6bdvCdJp
— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) February 24, 2025
Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
Great morning demanding #CareNotCuts! https://t.co/BCbQsEcrEX pic.twitter.com/4ynF6Y8EKf
— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) February 25, 2025
Michigan State AFL-CIO:
STATEMENT: Michigan Labor Movement Calls for Court to Uphold the Constitution, Rule Against Republican Speaker Matt Hall’s Unconstitutional Effort to Kill Pro-Worker Legislation https://t.co/xUYTmVavun
— Michigan AFL-CIO ✊ (@MIAFLCIO) February 24, 2025
Minnesota AFL-CIO:
Lawmakers at the #mnleg need to know that working Minnesotans won’t have our #PaidLeave delayed, rolled back, or denied. Take Action Now. #BetterInAUnion https://t.co/Q1p9ugSE6x
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) February 25, 2025
Missouri AFL-CIO:
Are you ready to vote in the March 4th primary and April 8th general elections? Find a list of Labor-endorsed candidates here and be sure to cast your #vote! https://t.co/scFV9pVAVJ
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) February 24, 2025
Nevada State AFL-CIO:
For Black History Month we are highlighting @SEIU1107 President Michelle Maese!
Michelle is a Supervisor for Clark County Child Protective Services and has been a SEIU Local 1107 member for over 15 years. pic.twitter.com/6wwN13DxVB
— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) February 24, 2025
New York State AFL-CIO:
ACTION: Cuts to federal funding will have serious consequences for working people & their families. Call your representative in Congress and ask them to vote against any budget resolution that cuts funding for healthcare, infrastructure & public education: https://t.co/uzMOArI0Pi
— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) February 25, 2025
Ohio AFL-CIO:
Making the rich and corporations pay their share of taxes will do way more than attacking veterans who work at the VA hospitals. https://t.co/Xy0ahhNzlw
— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) February 23, 2025
Oregon AFL-CIO:
Today, hundreds of union members from across Oregon are meeting with legislators to advocate for #OregonLabor legislative priorities, including SB 916 which would extend unemployment benefits to striking workers.
This is what #WorkerPower looks like when we stand arm-in-arm to… pic.twitter.com/vNFCC8apEN
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) February 25, 2025
Texas AFL-CIO:
No worker should go without pay.
Watch Jeff Ormsby, Executive Director of @AFSCME Texas Corrections, testify to the Texas Senate Finance Committee on the urgency of ensuring our correctional officers are compensated for working overtime: pic.twitter.com/B7LFBwugJo
— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) February 24, 2025
Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:
West Virginia AFL-CIO:
Nothing more American like destroying a 250 year old institution.
🚨🚨CALL TO SUPPORT🚨🚨OUR @NALC_National LETTER CARRIERS!!! pic.twitter.com/ieM2KER1xV
— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) February 21, 2025
Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
Federal layoffs in Madison hit dairy research, VA hospital https://t.co/2shZ6A3gkr via @CapTimes
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) February 24, 2025
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 02/26/2025 - 11:49Black History Month Profiles: Bryant Preston
For Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently actively making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Bryant Preston of the Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE).
Bryant Preston currently serves as president of the Colorado AFL-CIO, bringing with him a wealth of experience from his longstanding involvement with IATSE. Since joining the union in 2004, he has held numerous leadership roles, including his election as business representative in 2017—a position he held until 2023. That year, he transitioned to president of IATSE Local 7 and also took on a position within IATSE International’s trade show department. In addition to these responsibilities, Preston serves as secretary for IATSE’s district that encompasses Colorado, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 02/26/2025 - 10:10Black History Month Profiles: Kirby Boyce
For Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently actively making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Kirby Boyce of the Machinists (IAM).
Kirby Boyce began his journey as a machinist in 1999 at Pratt & Whitney’s engine facility in Cheshire. In 2004, he was elected as an IAM union steward and later served as recording secretary. The Cheshire facility closed in 2011, and Boyce moved to the East Hartford branch of Pratt & Whitney, where he joined IAM Lodge 1746. His commitment to safety led to his role as health and safety representative. In 2017, Kirby was elected president of Lodge 1746 and became vice president of the Greater Hartford Central Labor Coalition. He also served as treasurer of the Connecticut State Council of Machinists for five years. Currently, Boyce is the president of the Eastern Connecticut Area Labor Federation.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 02/26/2025 - 09:56Service & Solidarity Spotlight: NALC Rallies to Save the Postal Service from Attacks
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
On Monday, the National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) held a rally in Washington, D.C., to protest potential incoming efforts by the Trump administration to privatize the U.S. Postal Service (USPS).
NALC members, labor leaders and community allies gathered to defend this essential government agency after reports of a planned executive order that would fire the Postal Service Board of Governors and place the agency under the control of the Department of Commerce.
“The U.S. Post Office is a cornerstone of every community, in our largest cities and our smallest towns. It is cherished. It is trusted,” said AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Fred Redmond. “Letter carriers are the heart and soul of the U.S. Postal Service….We’re going to fight like hell for the Postal Service. We’re going to fight like hell for our unions.”
NALC President Brian Renfroe told the crowd: “Let’s be very clear about what this is: a dedicated attack on the 640,000 dedicated people who work at the Postal Service, on the service we provide and on the hundreds of millions of Americans who rely on the service we provide every single day.”
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 02/26/2025 - 09:56Worker Wins: Collectively Standing Together
Our latest roundup of worker wins includes numerous examples of working people organizing, bargaining and mobilizing for a better life.
Federal Court Orders DOE and OPM to Stop Sharing Private Data with DOGE Affiliates: On Monday, the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland issued a temporary restraining order prohibiting the Department of Education (DOE) and the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) from disclosing sensitive personal information to employees affiliated with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The American Federation of Teachers (AFT)—which is the lead plaintiff in the case—argued that the DOE and OPM violated the Privacy Act by granting DOGE affiliates unauthorized access to systems containing sensitive personal information, including Social Security numbers, bank account information, health records and other private data. In a post shared to social media, AFT President Randi Weingarten said: “The Department of Education is prevented from sharing personal information of AFT members and members of the other plaintiffs with Elon Musk and DOGE. This is huge news in the fight against Elon Musk stealing our private information.” In addition to AFT, the lawsuit's plaintiffs include the Machinists (IAM), the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE), National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association and the National Federation of Federal Employees.
Oregon Nurses Vote to Approve Tentative Agreement After 46 Days on Strike: Members of the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA)—an affiliate of the AFT—approved a tentative agreement with Providence Health & Services on Monday night after over a month on the picket line. The agreement covers nurses at all eight striking facilities across the state who walked off the job earlier this year to secure a contract that ensures fair treatment and working conditions. Highlights include wage increases ranging from 20% to 42% over the life of the contract, guaranteed penalty pay for missed breaks and meals, improvements to nurse workloads, and more. “This milestone represents a significant achievement for ONA nurses, marking a powerful step forward in their ongoing commitment to fair wages, safe staffing, and high-quality patient care,” ONA said in a press statement. “These hard-won agreements reflect the dedication and determination of ONA nurses who stood strong in their fight for fair treatment, safe working conditions and better healthcare for their communities.”
Children’s Theatre Company Staff Ratify First Union Contract: Front-of-house workers at the Children’s Theatre Company (CTC), who are represented by Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 13, have ratified their first collective bargaining agreement. This bargaining unit at the country’s largest theater for young audiences includes ushers, ticket takers, performance supervisors, concessions leads and other critical staff who work directly with customers. Organizing began in February 2023, and by April 80% of eligible staff had signed union authorization cards. IATSE then requested voluntary recognition in December, which Children’s Theatre Company acknowledged a month later. “While bargaining began slowly, we have appreciated the consistent attention to these negotiations from CTC throughout and since the company underwent a change in both the artistic and managing director roles last summer,” said a representative from the union. “We are pleased that our work together has produced meaningful gains for member employees and strengthened CTC’s workforce.”
UFCW Strike Secures Return-to-Work Agreement; Union Will Continue Bargaining with King Soopers: United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 7, which represents over 10,000 striking King Soopers workers in Colorado, announced Monday that the union secured a return-to-work settlement and will be back at the negotiating table with management. The strike-ending settlement includes provisions that ensure no workers will lose their health care during bargaining and prevent the Kroger-owned grocery chain from locking out staff so the union can resume talks over the new contract. UFCW members initially walked off the job earlier this month after management’s repeated bad-faith tactics—including intimidation, gutting retiree health benefits and illegal disciplinary threats—forced them into an unfair labor practice strike. “We have taken a big step forward and ensured that Kroger knows that staffing is a key concern to workers and customers alike,” said UFCW Local 7 President Kim Cordova in a press release. “We will go back to the bargaining table and continue our fight for a fair union contract for us, our customers and the communities we serve. This strike was about thousands of everyday grocery store workers, collectively standing together and facing one of the largest corporations in America and saying ENOUGH. Our strike was just the beginning of this effort and elevated staffing in grocery stores to a national level with more workers and allies joining together.”
Ski Patrol Union Reaches Tentative Agreement with Keystone Ski Resort: Members of the United Professional Ski Patrols of America (UPSPA), Communications Workers of America (CWA) Local 7781, who work at Keystone Resort have reached a tentative agreement (TA) on their first contract with Vail Resorts. Organized under the name Keystone Ski Patrol (KSP) Union, workers have been in negotiations with the largest resort operator in North America since September 2024. Over the course of bargaining, patrollers have staged a protest and filed unfair labor practice charges with the National Labor Relations Board. “Keystone Resort and the Keystone Ski Patrol Union are pleased to announce that they have reached a new tentative agreement through May 31, 2027,” the union and management said in a joint statement. “Together, the resort and union are looking forward to a great rest of the season.”
Labor Defeats Right to Work Legislation in New Hampshire: In a win for working people, the latest version of “right to work” legislation introduced in the New Hampshire Legislature last week has been indefinitely postponed, effectively killing the bill. Different iterations of House Bill 238-FN have been introduced dozens of times since the 1980s, all seeking to undermine union negotiating power and make New Hampshire the region’s only right to work state. “For the fortieth consecutive time, so-called ‘Right-to-Work’ is dead,” said New Hampshire AFL-CIO President Glenn Brackett in a joint statement with other labor leaders. “Once again, today, a bipartisan coalition of legislators did their job, listened to their constituents, and voted to kill House Bill 238-FN, this year’s version of the fraudulently titled ‘Right-to-Work.’ Every new legislature for the last 40 years has seen this attack on workers’ rights and every legislature, regardless of which party is in the majority, has rejected it.”
IAM Becomes First Labor Union Recognized as VSO: Last month, the IAM became the first union to be recognized as a national Veterans Service Organization (VSO) for its work advocating for veteran members across the country through IAM’s Veterans Services Program. This designation from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) means IAM will get access to more vital resources, support securing benefits for members and the formal backing of the VA. It also signifies that the union is now able to increase its support of veteran members through assisting with claims, advocating for benefits, pushing for legislative changes and more. “We will now be able to grow our organization and set a new standard of care for all IAM Veterans,” said IAM Veterans Services Coordinator Richard Evans. “For the IAM itself, this recognition is a testament to our hard work, dedication, and tireless advocacy on behalf of those who have served in our military. It shows that this organization is equipped with the tools, knowledge, and resources to effectively help Veterans navigate the challenges they face after service. Whether it’s securing healthcare, disability benefits, or educational opportunities, this recognition strengthens our ability to fight for veterans’ rights and ensure they receive the care and support they deserve.”
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 02/25/2025 - 14:11Tags: Organizing
