Celebrating Black History Month: 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:
Bravo, @WydettaC ! You're an amazing union leader and we send you our gratitude and respect 🙌🏾
via @AFLCIO
#BlackHistoryMonth https://t.co/gPf90kCvn3
AFGE:
WFP and AFGE Y.O.U.N.G. are proud to introduce the first-ever episode of the AFGE Y.O.U.N.G. Podcast! New episodes will be released every 2 weeks on @Spotify, @Apple Podcasts, and @GooglePlay. #1u
Take a listen and let us know what you think: https://t.co/22tvJeEXQq pic.twitter.com/YYC5KRqh1t
AFSCME:
NEW TODAY: We joined nearly 160 advocacy groups calling on Congress to work with the Biden administration on passing the critical investments in the #BuildBackBetterAct.
— AFSCME (@AFSCME) February 3, 2022Alliance for Retired Americans:
Read our blog post to see why Medicare doesn't cover rapid at home COVID-19 tests: https://t.co/EZoXoCDZwx
— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) February 2, 2022Amalgamated Transit Union:
#COVID19 #1u #OmicronVarient #Transit pic.twitter.com/xqCMslqd97
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) February 3, 2022American Federation of Musicians:
It’s #GroundhogDay and again @nabtweets is arguing that recording artists should not be paid for their work. @nashmusicians @davepomeroy56TN will testify in front of Congress on behalf of musicians. #fairpay Watch live February 2 at 10 a.m. ET https://t.co/ePpapYmyit pic.twitter.com/no7iuVYPhi
— AFM (@The_AFM) February 2, 2022American Federation of Teachers:
#ICYMI: AFT President @rweingarten talks about the AFT partnership with NewsGuard, and the movement to teach children how to think, rather than what to think. pic.twitter.com/3QpODQgjYJ
— AFT (@AFTunion) February 3, 2022American Postal Workers Union:
Can you name a time when the USPS was tapped to perform an essential service during a national crisis? We'll start: distributing the smallpox vaccine in the 1800s https://t.co/RnrYcs8Eb4
— APWU National (@APWUnational) February 3, 2022Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance:
Justice for 365 #NagaWorld hotel & casino workers wrongly fired in #Cambodia!
--
Release 8 union leaders jailed while peacefully walking a picket line!
Please RT!@LRSUnion @IUFglobal @IndustriALL_GU @AFLCIOGlobal @APALAnational @cvoule @ShibaniMahtani @pakhead @hkbeech
Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:
We remember USAir Flight 1493 and SkyWest 5569. Flight 1493 was a scheduled passenger flight from Syracuse to SFO via D.C., Columbus, and LA. Upon Landing at LAX, Flight 1493 accidentally collided with SkyWest Flight 5569, a Metroliner turboprop aircraft, on the runway. pic.twitter.com/VjoyeStpDm
— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) February 1, 2022Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers:
The @BCTGM Local 37 @RichProducts workers who make cakes for @BaskinRobbins, @ColdStone & retail outlets have been on strike since Nov. 3.
DO NOT BUY these cakes until their employer negotiates a fair contract so they can return to work!#RichProductsPoorWorkers #1u pic.twitter.com/95wejz9kmZ
Boilermakers:
Today we recognize brother Martin Williams, National Coordinator of State Legislative Affairs, M.O.R.E. Work Investment Fund. #BoilermakersUnion #BlackHistoryMonth #UnionProud pic.twitter.com/RM8GDhM76I
— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) February 2, 2022Bricklayers:
Congrats to @imiweb Director Scott Conwell on receiving the TCAA’s 2021 Carl V. Cesery Award from @TileMagazine! Be sure to check out his most recent podcast appearance below⬇️https://t.co/Pvfm4iECWg https://t.co/x2TlZbQA2D
— Bricklayers Union (@IUBAC) February 1, 2022California School Employees Association:
Thank you, @AsmVillapudua, for your strong support of our quarter million classified school employees across California! https://t.co/lRMUeUg5cg
— CSEA (@CSEA_Now) January 31, 2022Coalition of Black Trade Unionists:
Back Together Again! #CBTU22 #unions #blacklabor #BlackLivesMatter #1u pic.twitter.com/upBJuTuP3H
— CBTU (@CBTU72) January 28, 2022Communications Workers of America:
"In the process of organizing, I was able to talk to coworkers I don’t normally talk to in my everyday work...My union work made my life better because now I actually have more friends that I can talk to and go to for support.” 🥰✊ @eaworkers_union #1u https://t.co/w1T4AygqjP
— CODE-CWA (@CODE_CWA) February 3, 2022Department for Professional Employees:
Solidarity with @UnionAtCAP/@IFPTE members! https://t.co/3SN20HGGol
— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) February 3, 2022Electrical Workers:
#IBEW Black history: The IBEW chartered Jacksonville, Fla., Local 100, in 1900 as the first local exclusively for Black workers. Its president was J.H. Mays of the Southern Bell Telephone Co. #BlackHistoryMonth pic.twitter.com/LW7TACr965
— IBEW (@IBEW) February 3, 2022Fire Fighters:
February is American Heart Month. The #IAFF encourages our members to follow these tips to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. #IAFFSafetyTips pic.twitter.com/LIcyDUU1uL
— IAFF (@IAFFNewsDesk) February 3, 2022Heat and Frost Insulators:
We're looking for the next generation of Mechanical Insulators! If you are in the Dallas area, please consider joining our Local 21 Registered Apprenticeship Program. Learn more here: https://t.co/9NlY3ocn8z
— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) February 3, 2022International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers:
IFPTE Applauds Introduction of Legislation to Create Independent Immigration Court https://t.co/e46lLiBrJz
— IFPTE (@IFPTE) February 3, 2022Ironworkers:
The Canadian government launched an advertising campaign to promote the skilled trades as a strong first-choice career path for youth and young adults. #skilledtrades https://t.co/vX7DP0mB3Z
— Ironworkers. (@TheIronworkers) February 1, 2022Jobs With Justice:
If someone says they're "not anti-union" but don't believe a union is "the right move," they're probably anti-union! #TheMoreYouKnow https://t.co/Vb8fzWWDW0
— Jobs With Justice (@jwjnational) February 2, 2022Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:
For too long, wealthy and powerful special interests have rigged the system to favor corporations instead of people. We need a Supreme Court justice who will not pick and choose whose rights they care about – a justice who will put justice first. We need a #JusticeForAll. pic.twitter.com/ovKfmZbBZI
— LCLAA (@LCLAA) February 2, 2022Laborers:
Great news for workers! #Wagetheft needs to stop! Great work @workersdefense, @SSwldc #UnionStrong! https://t.co/HF1GZN7TKr
— LIUNA (@LIUNA) February 3, 2022Machinists:
Congratulations SINTTIA for winning your election at the General Motors factory in Mexico! #1u https://t.co/Xg6A6nQLBF
— Machinists Union (@MachinistsUnion) February 3, 2022Maritime Trades Department:
MARITIME LABOR BLASTS PROPOSED USVI RUNAWAY FLAGhttps://t.co/kaOTCAB50f
— MaritimeTrades (@Maritime_Trades) February 1, 2022Metal Trades Department:
In honor of Black History Month, we would like to pay homage to A. Philip Randolph, who led the first African American labor union with the Brotherhood of the Sleeping Car Porters. He aided in the March on Washington as director of Jobs and Freedom.#blackhistorymonth pic.twitter.com/8RJFEMF0i4
— Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) February 2, 2022Mine Workers:
President @CecilRoberts is back on the #UMWA picket line against Warrior Met Coal. Thank you President @sappelbaum from the @RWDSU for standing with UMWA miners fighting for a fair contract!
Photo Credit: @brett_wallace pic.twitter.com/yjBjENqG51
Musical Artists:
AGMA launches contract summary webpage for AGMA Opera Soloists (Principal Artists): https://t.co/4BS8c83H7a pic.twitter.com/8j4Vnx07kr
— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) February 2, 2022National Air Traffic Controllers Association:
Salt Lake Center (ZLC) Legislative Representative Tyler Ellis and National Legislative Committee Alternate Northwest Mountain Region Representative Caryn Morrison (ZLC) recently attended an event with Utah @RepChrisStewart. https://t.co/8seDgAUg6f pic.twitter.com/SpixcsWD9z
— NATCA (@NATCA) February 3, 2022National Association of Letter Carriers:
The February edition of The Postal Record is now available online! Keep up with the latest from your union and browse articles online or listen while you’re on the go.
📘 Read: https://t.co/XlSp1lgYKi
🎧 Listen: https://t.co/Lz3yGpu596 pic.twitter.com/32eCTMJTsP
National Day Laborer Organizing Network:
A city that harasses, fines, and impounds the cars of immigrant day laborers trying to make a living. This your vision for #SanBernardino, @MayorJValdivia? It’s time to reimburse the fines n stop harassing workers. Let’s talk long term solutions. #Dale #CaminataPorRespeto pic.twitter.com/N5FMVMbIb2
— NDLON (@NDLON) January 29, 2022National Domestic Workers Alliance:
Voting rights protect all other rights.
We need the Senate to act like it.
National Federation of Federal Employees:
Tell Senate Leader Schumer - Confirm Biden FLRA Nominees NOW! - https://t.co/4t5La4Cj76
— NFFE (@NFFE_Union) February 1, 2022National Nurses United:
Throughout the pandemic nurses have struggled with increased rates of #WorkplaceViolence, lack of #SafeStaffing and protections, & fighting misinformation.
“Staff is yelled at, hit, scratched. We hear about it on a day-to-day basis. It is unrelenting." 💔 https://t.co/EBOIGc7vSr
NWSL Players Association:
A statement from the Players Association: pic.twitter.com/7piQ0n9i0z
— NWSLPA (@nwsl_players) February 1, 2022NFL Players Association:
.@arikarmstead wanted to help his hometown of Sacramento; so he started a free football camp.
Since then, our 5th Alan Page Community Award finalist has opened Armstead Academy, making a huge impact on kids--and his No. 1 fan in Hawaii. #CommunityMVP
🔗: https://t.co/iS5jhSsEip pic.twitter.com/wtuEBx8aI3
North America's Building Trades Unions:
“I feel like it was an unknown calling that I just so happened to stumble upon."
Meet Nathan Allred, a @smartunionworks apprentice paving his way forward in the #BuildingTrades 👏https://t.co/unK9j4ulK9
Office and Professional Employees:
✊✊✊ @Nava_United just requested from their employer, @NavaPBC, voluntary recognition of their union with @techunion1010.
Tech workers are increasingly organizing for and winning better conditions at work through the power of their unions. https://t.co/dcxVELEmYd pic.twitter.com/K6UqaVjG6a
Painters and Allied Trades:
"You're a part of something so big when you join our union's apprenticeship program. We may be just a local here in Tennessee, but we all stand together everywhere as one. It's a beautiful thing." pic.twitter.com/Jt5lxxssoY
— IUPAT (@GoIUPAT) February 3, 2022Plasterers and Cement Masons:
“39% of families of construction workers are enrolled in one or more safety net program at a cost of almost $28 billion per year. ...Three times as many construction workers as all workers lack health insurance.” This is the impact of the non-union sector. https://t.co/NaQ3mAylil
— OPCMIA International (@opcmiaintl) February 3, 2022Professional Aviation Safety Specialists:
And let us honor the service of all the Tuskegee Airmen, including Brigadier General Charles McGee who "slipped the surly bonds of earth" just last month. Lives well lived, changing aviation forever. @TAINational #BlackHistoryMonth #aviation #publicservice https://t.co/ynyMIX38Im
— PASS (@PASSNational) February 1, 2022Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:
ICYMI: retail workers at @REI’s SoHo location are organizing the first union at any REI store! Give the workers a follow @reiunionsoho to stay updated on their fight! #REIunionhttps://t.co/Ctw2MjykJy
— RWDSU (@RWDSU) February 3, 2022Roofers and Waterproofers:
Ladder levelers reduce the risk of falls from extension ladders by improving stability. Learn more at: https://t.co/G70JFy6aAH #roofersafety365 pic.twitter.com/HQN5wNNzoM
— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) January 31, 2022SAG-AFTRA:
Last year, #sagaftramembers snuggled up on the couch for the @SAGawards in their finest haute couture. Check out how @mindykaling, @leslieodomjr and more tuned in to the #sagawards in style sans the silver carpet. #tbt https://t.co/KtZypLCCbT?
📸 Chelsea Lauren/Shutterstock pic.twitter.com/w1K6srGy1V
Seafarers:
U.S. Maritime Unions Slam Plans for a USVI Ship Registry https://t.co/IlooBzo39E #1u #maritime
— Seafarers Union (@SeafarersUnion) February 3, 2022Solidarity Center:
Union & civil society representatives in #Nepal met w/ Chief Election Commissioner Dinesh Thapalitya to discuss voting rights of #migrantworkers. The chief commissioner expressed his commitment to work toward ensuring their rights. @GAATW_IS @mfasia_ @GCMigration @thisweekinnepal pic.twitter.com/SBsQfKzckD
— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) February 3, 2022The NewsGuild-CWA:
Welcome -- officially -- to the family. We're proud to have you join our ranks. https://t.co/2OEK3ZgFvy
— NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) February 3, 2022Theatrical Stage Employees:
BREAKING: @IATSE798 files Unfair Labor Practice Charges against @TheAtlantaOpera, alleging the employer illegally retaliated against Hair and Makeup workers for attempting to form a union. pic.twitter.com/jk109s6hDo
— IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) February 2, 2022Transport Workers Union:
#BlackHistoryMonth https://t.co/JqP7WbNaf3
— TWU (@transportworker) February 3, 2022Transportation Trades Department:
We support the TSA Security Threat Assessment Application Modernization Act, which would reduce the amount of ⏰ and 💸 that transportation workers spend to maintain multiple @TSA security credentials as a requirement of their frontline jobs. https://t.co/Ab3kzZN268
— Transportation Trades Department (@TTDAFLCIO) February 3, 2022UAW:
UAW PRESIDENT RAY CURRY ISSUES STATEMENT ON THE NEED TO PASS REP. CINDY AXNE’S STRIKING WORKERS HEALTHCARE PROTECTION ACT
Full statement https://t.co/V7I5aWZePE
Union Label and Service Trades Department:
Congrats NWSLPA - we're so proud of you and your historic first agreement. #1U #NWSLPA #Solidarity #UnionYes @nwsl_players
— Union Label Dept. (@ULSTD_AFLCIO) February 2, 2022Union Veterans Council:
Hey @sappelbaum we hear that @BAmazonUnion workers are fighting for their community and themselves in Brookwood AL!
The @unionveterans stands ready to send in our support 🪂 for you and these brave workers! #1u https://t.co/vFmF722PS6
UNITE HERE:
👑 https://t.co/7vAQxzABGX pic.twitter.com/eO7wPHCpgU
— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) February 3, 2022United Food and Commercial Workers:
Six more weeks of winter? No matter what the groundhog predicts - without shadow of a doubt, a union at your workplace will guarantee that your voice will be heard!
Learn more: https://t.co/CUsp1wr7dU#GroundhogDay #1u pic.twitter.com/c02NAwbfFQ
United Steelworkers:
Starbucks union push spreads to 54 stores in 19 states https://t.co/kIJCIETgul
— United Steelworkers (@steelworkers) February 3, 2022United Students Against Sweatshops:
Spend your Valentine's eve demanding that universities put students and workers over profit 😘💖Join us on Sunday 2/13 for campaign updates, guest speakers, and more as we kick off another semester of organizing! Register: https://t.co/KpRbTYaduH pic.twitter.com/d3W1bIFL1M
— USAS (@USAS) January 25, 2022Utility Workers:
Keith Holmes, president of the Gas Workers Employees Union Local 686, UWUA, warns that low-income residents and workers who depend on good, union jobs must not be swept to the side as Philadelphia considers what a just transition would look like. https://t.co/2OyUpyyTFL
— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) February 3, 2022Working America:
"Go speak to the working class and see how they feel," she said. "I will tell you, [the child tax credit] helped a lot. And now I'm in a predicament where I can't work because there is no child tax credit to help me with day care."https://t.co/dCygP8m5Uo
— Working America | Pass the #PROAct (@WorkingAmerica) January 31, 2022Writers Guild of America, East:
Check out WGA member @AlexEdelman's off-Broadway show JUST FOR US, which is now running at the @CherryLnTheatre through February 19. https://t.co/jqneBQP8Cj
— Writers Guild of America, East / #PROAct (@WGAEast) February 2, 2022 Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 02/04/2022 - 10:30Economy Gains 467,000 Jobs in January; Unemployment Steady at 4%
The U.S. economy gained 467,000 jobs in January, and the unemployment rate was essentially unchanged at 4%, 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 said:
Mercifully, local government employment is up 313,000 since last year, and is likely because of the American Rescue Plan helping state and local governments, with a heavy target on getting money to the local government level.
Over the year, wage growth was solid, at a little over 5%, and except for those low-wage workers in leisure and hospitality, running around current inflation projections. Leisure and hospitality workers, at 13% pay increases, are benefiting from rising minimum wages, most of which are indexed to inflation. So, the Fed should not see anything to suggest wages are out of hand.
He also tweeted:
With the spike in COVID from the Omicron variant, this report puts today's #JobsReport in context, most restaurant workers don't have paid sick days
Line cooks have the highest risk of dying during pandemic, plus other riskiest jobs: study https://t.co/cl49gdSEG3
Good news for Black workers, January's labor force participation was back up to 62.0%, the share holding jobs was up to 57.7% and the share unemployed down to 6.9%. All good. But, still worse than the (all races) high school dropout unemployment rate of 6.3%. @AFLCIO
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) February 4, 2022
A good sign for the labor market is that Black labor force participation (which is the most sensitive to actual firm hiring) has reversed its recent decline and bounced back to equal white labor force participation. #JobsReport @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/XRnUtxRj0l
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) February 4, 2022
The rapid rise in the share of Americans holding jobs is tremendous, but the @federalreserve must note the distance we have to go to get back to pre-pandemic levels, and the full recovery from the Great Recession. We can't risk a permanently smaller economy. @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/h5LUFACATQ
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) February 4, 2022
Job gains were widespread (moving right on the chart), with big gains in lower wage industries (moving down on the chart). Leisure & hospitality gains were big, Professional services (consultants and temporary help) and retail trade leading the way. @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/QrWJ1eGzkC
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) February 4, 2022
Total private sector average hourly wage rose 5.7%, but slightly lower for the highest wage industries, construction and durable goods manufacturing, the big gains were low wage workers getting minimum wage boosts from the #Fightfor15 and inflation indexing by states, 13% @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/783YhF9P0e
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) February 4, 2022
This chart from @BLS_gov ( https://t.co/Kjxdf9vX10 ) shows the rapid return of self-employment (which includes gig work). The household survey captures both that and the lower dark line which is payroll employment in the household survey. Self-employment is rising faster. @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/sQSjWzLSTa
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) February 4, 2022
Look at who is stressed. The index of aggregate weekly hours is a comparison to 2007 (the pre Great Recession economic peak). January 2022 over January 2021 look at the biggest increase: leisure & hospitality. Restaurant workers face high incidence of COVID @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/p8T42i51QO
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) February 4, 2022
The reallocation of women to higher wage industries is a silver lining in the she-session. Women gaining footholds in higher wage industries is good for the economy, it expands the pool of experienced workers and lowers inflationary pressures. Pass @POTUS #BuildBackBetter now.
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) February 4, 2022
We should continue to take the labor force participation numbers with a grain-of-salt, 72% of the newly employed in January were "not in the labor force" (i.e. not looking) in December, a very high success rate (72%) compared to those who flowed into unemployment. @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/FTBC3pa4BB
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) February 4, 2022Last month’s biggest job gains were in leisure and hospitality (+151,000), professional and business services (+86,000), retail trade (+61,000), transportation and warehousing (+54,000), local government education (+29,000), health care (+18,000) and wholesale trade (+16,000). Employment showed little change over the month in mining, construction, manufacturing, information, financial activities and other services.
Among the major worker groups, the unemployment rates for adult men (3.8%) and White Americans (3.4%) edged up in January. The jobless rates for teenagers (10.9%), Black Americans (6.9%), Hispanics (4.9%), adult women (3.6%) and Asian Americans (3.6%) showed little or no change over the month.
The number of long-term unemployed workers (those jobless for 27 weeks or more) declined in January and accounted for 25.9% of the total unemployed.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 02/04/2022 - 09:43Black History Month Profiles: Jesse Johnson
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 their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Jesse Johnson of UNITE HERE.
Jesse Johnson is a bartender at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and executive board member and union shop steward of UNITE HERE Local 2. A longtime Bay Area resident, Johnson has worked at the airport for more than 40 years and led numerous contract fights, including a strike in 2014 and SFO food service workers' current push for affordable health care in the face of COVID-19.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 02/04/2022 - 09:30Tags: Black History Month
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: AFM Calls on Congress to Pass Fair Pay Legislation for Musicians
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.
Musicians and vocalists do not receive a single cent when their recordings are broadcast on AM and FM radio stations. Incredibly, the United States is one of only a handful of countries (including Iran, North Korea and China) that has no law requiring a broadcast performance royalty to be paid to artists, musicians and singers. The American Music Fairness Act (H.R. 4130), now pending in Congress, is designed to remedy that and provide royalty payments to artists, session musicians and vocalists when their recordings are broadcast over AM and FM radio.
On Wednesday, Dave Pomeroy, president of the American Federation of Musicians (AFM) Local 257 in Nashville, Tennessee, testified in front of the House Judiciary Committee, urging representatives to take action on behalf of music creators across the country. “Music is one of the United States’ greatest exports, and its positive impact on our economy and the everyday lives of Americans is immeasurable,” Pomeroy said. “But what is measurable is the billions of dollars that U.S. terrestrial radio makes on the backs of those who create the content that drives their advertising revenue.”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 02/04/2022 - 09:27Black History Month Profiles: Wydetta Carter
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 their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Wydetta Carter of Actors' Equity.
First Vice President Wydetta Carter has served on many committees and negotiating teams throughout her 30-plus years as an Equity member, and is currently serving as one of the leads on the negotiating team for touring and as chair of the Chicago Area Theatre Committee. Carter’s other priorities include membership education, proactive communication and a push onward for diversity, equity and inclusion in all areas of the theater industry. “One of my mottos for Equity is TALK,” she said. “Transparency. Action. Leadership. Knowledge.” She is the first Black officer to serve the union in over 40 years, and the highest-ranking Black woman in the history of Equity.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 02/03/2022 - 11:20Tags: Black History Month
Black History Month Profiles: Kwami Barnes
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 their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Kwami Barnes.
Kwami Barnes, is a proud 20-year member of CWA. He currently serves as a union steward, and formerly a chief and assistant chief steward of CWA Local 4603 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. A graduate of the CWA Minority Leadership Institute, Barnes has been an active member on his local’s legislative/political and civil rights committees. He has had the honor of working with organizations such as the Poor People's Campaign (PPC), where he mobilized with his fellow union members and community allies to bring awareness to the unfair distribution of wealth, equity, basic healthcare, education and other problems in our country. He has led efforts to train and engage other activists with the PPC and other community organizations like the Working Families, Fight for Fifteen and Voces de la Frontera.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 02/03/2022 - 10:00Tags: Black History Month
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: Minnesota AFL-CIO Makes History with New President
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.
Bernie Burnham was sworn in today as the 10th president of the Minnesota AFL-CIO. As a Pacific Islander, Burnham is the first person of color to lead the Minnesota federation. She is only the second woman to hold the position. Burnham was elected unanimously and succeeded outgoing President Bill McCarthy, who began his tenure as president in 2015.
Prior to election, Burnham served as vice president of Education Minnesota, which is affiliated with both the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) and the National Education Association (NEA). Before that she worked for 14 years as an elementary school teacher in Duluth, where she served five years as president of the Duluth Federation of Teachers (AFT).
“Becoming president of the Minnesota AFL-CIO is the next step in a journey that began 22 years ago for me,” Burnham said. “When I was hired as a teacher in the Duluth Public Schools, I was a woman of color who took an unconventional route into the teaching profession. I didn’t know if I would be accepted, but my new union family embraced me,” Burnham said. “It’s an honor and privilege to be elected to this office. I am committed to continuing the Labor Movement’s fight for a state where everyone earns a fair return on their work, where every child can pursue their dreams, and where every family that’s struggling today will get what they need, things like accessible healthcare, modern roads and bridges, safe housing, and world-class schools.”
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 02/03/2022 - 09:33Black History Month Profiles: Paul Anthony
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 their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Paul Anthony of UNITE HERE.
"Being a Culinary Union member [for 31 years] means that I am able to represent, help and inform workers of the rights they have—which have been earned through years of fights, marches and strikes—that is what it means to me."
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 02/02/2022 - 10:00Tags: Black History Month
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: CSEA-Sponsored Bills Introduced in California State Legislature
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service + Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Members of the California Legislature have introduced two bills of critical importance to students and families in the state’s public schools and sponsored by the California School Employees Association (CSEA). S.B. 878, the Road to Success, would establish a state-funded program to ensure that every public school student in California gets transportation to and from school each day. And S.B. 874, legislation to ensure parity for employees in merit districts, would provide the same promotional probation procedures for classified employees in merit system districts as nonmerit system employees.
“Employees who strive for advancement in their workplace should not fear losing their job due to statutory ambiguity, yet that is the case for some California classified school employees. S.B. 874 would provide clarity for employers and give employees the security to develop their professional skills and grow their careers,” said CSEA President Matthew “Shane” Dishman.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 02/02/2022 - 09:34Join the Campaign to Restore Tax Fairness for Arts Workers
Many of the AFL-CIO’s arts and entertainment unions are launching a joint campaign to tell Congress to restore tax fairness for arts workers by supporting the Performing Artist Tax Parity Act (PATPA), H.R. 4750 and S. 2872. The PATPA will be a game changer for arts workers, allowing them to once again deduct common business expenses that come with practicing their crafts. The campaign is working to build additional support in Congress so that the bill is brought up for a vote in the coming weeks.
We need your help amplifying this joint effort, backed by the Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE), Actors’ Equity Association (Equity), the American Federation of Musicians (AFM), the American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA), SAG-AFTRA and Stage Directors and Choreographers Society (SDC), and the AFL-CIO. Using the link below, please urge your members of Congress to co-sponsor PATPA and encourage our members to do the same by spreading the word about this campaign.
Send a Letter to Your Members of Congress Today!
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 02/01/2022 - 14:13No More Bad Jobs: 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.
New Contract with King Soopers Is Industry Leading, Union President Says: “The agreement approved by Denver-area King Soopers employees after a 10-day strike is an industry-leading contract that fixes longtime problems, said Kim Cordova, president of the United Food and Commercial Workers Local 7. Union members voted Monday to ratify the contract, officially ending the labor dispute that involved more than 8,000 employees in Boulder, Parker and the Denver area. Employees at King Soopers and City Market stores in other parts of the state will vote on the contract Wednesday through Monday. ‘The work that our members did by going out on strike and taking a stand against King Soopers’ unfair labor practices, it’s really going to set the bar and the standard, hopefully, for workers around the country to really strive for that kind of change,’ Cordova said.”
AFL-CIO’s Department for Professional Employees Urges Congress to Approve Increased Funding for the Arts & Public Broadcasting: “The AFL-CIO’s Department for Professional Employees is urging Congress to increase federal funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting to $565 million in fiscal year 2022 and the National Endowment for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Humanities to $201 million each—funding levels that were passed by the House of Representatives in July. ‘This is a critical moment for helping ensure that creative professionals can get back to work in the wake of the economic devastation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic,’ DPE President Jennifer Dorning said in a letter to the chairs, vice chairs and ranking members of the Senate and House appropriations committees. ‘The CARES Act and American Rescue Plan helped creative professionals get through the worst of the pandemic and allowed them to start to get back on stage and return to sets, but the reality is that industry employment remains below pre-pandemic levels. Increased NEA, NEH, and CPB funding will help ensure that professionals working in the arts and public media can fully recover from the pandemic.’”
The Biden Jobs Boom Is Bigger Than We Thought: “When it comes to what’s been called the ‘Great Resignation,’ there’s nothing new about Americans quitting their jobs to look for something better. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that from 2015 to 2019, an average of 38 million full-time and part-time working people voluntarily left their jobs per year—and that excludes retirements and layoffs. In 2021, those voluntary ‘quits’ jumped to 47 million, the highest level ever. The pandemic almost certainly played a role by inspiring workers to reconsider their life choices. But for most people, moving from ruminating to resigning requires confidence that they can find a good position somewhere else. That’s why huge numbers of quits only happen in a booming job market. People who quit in 2021 generally found new positions much faster than normal. The number of open jobs waiting to be filled averaged 9.6 million per month in 2021, 47% higher than the average for 2015 to 2019.”
Georgia AFL-CIO Endorses Democrat Abrams for Governor: “A major union in Georgia is endorsing Democrat Stacey Abrams’ campaign for governor. The Georgia AFL-CIO announced its endorsement at a news conference with Abrams in Atlanta on Wednesday. The union also endorsed Abrams early in her previous run for governor. Union President Charlie Flemming said Abrams would work to ‘fight our skyrocketing racial and economic inequities.’ ‘She knows that working people and their families have needs that must be met, and she has done that work and will continue to do that work to address them,’ he said.”
Howard University Professor Says Americans Are Quitting ‘Bad Jobs’: “William Spriggs, a professor in Howard University’s Economics Department and an economist for AFL-CIO, cautioned that the government’s job numbers shouldn’t frighten anyone. ‘The problem of job matching was going to be a problem once we, the United States, showed a policy of separation as opposed to retention to make it through the virus,’ Professor Spriggs remarked. He said the federal government placed workers on unemployment, separating them from their jobs with no reconnection plans.”
Employer Appeals for Temporary Worker Visas Meet Union Pushback: “Liz Shuler, president of AFL-CIO, said in a statement that employers have misused the H-2B program to lower wages, discriminate against and exploit both U.S. and foreign workers. ‘To steer our country towards a just economic recovery, we need to fix the systems that are failing workers, rather than expanding failed models,’ she said.”
‘We Will Not Beat This Pandemic Until We Stop the Spread of the Virus at Work’: Backlash Against Supreme Court’s Decision to Block Biden’s Vaccine Mandate: “AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler had some strong words for the the Supreme Court justices, and their ruling to stay enforcement of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s vaccine mandate, saying the organization was ‘disappointed’ in the court’s decision. ‘While infections and hospitalizations surge, we again urge the Biden administration to require employers to provide protections beyond vaccines.’”
Advancing Dr. King’s Voting Rights Legacy: “But now, in 2022, as we honor Dr. King on his birthday, voting rights are under siege. Last year alone, 19 states passed 34 laws restricting access to the ballot box and silencing the voices in particular of communities of color, voters with disabilities, young people and other historically underrepresented groups. The powerful forces behind these laws have made a ruthless calculation. They know that they can’t win on the merits, that their agenda doesn’t have enough public support to win fair and square, so they are rigging the system instead. In Dr. King’s native Georgia, Stacey Abrams and other activists have worked relentlessly in recent years to register, organize and mobilize voters in huge numbers.”
Voting Rights Fight, 2022 Elections, Take Center Stage at AFL-CIO’s MLK Conference: “Talk about having a lot on your plate: The AFL-CIO’s annual Martin Luther King conference will have big-ticket issues to discuss, namely criminal justice reform, an economy that works for all workers—including Blacks—and most of all, voting rights. ‘Throughout our history, the labor movement has stood up for the disenfranchised and those on the margins of our democracy,’ says AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler, who will keynote the conference, along with Executive Vice President Tefere Gebre and Secretary-Treasurer Fred Redmond. ‘That work continues today as we push for passage of the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, which will protect the right to vote for all eligible Americans’ as well as the Freedom To Vote Act, she adds. ‘Anti-worker politicians continue to use every tool at their disposal to rig our democracy to their benefit. Their actions pose a real threat to America’s representative government. In response, union members are doing everything we can to promote democracy—both in our workplaces and at the ballot box,’ Shuler declared on January 7.”
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 02/01/2022 - 10:47Black History Month Profiles: Julien Johnson
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 their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Julien Johnson of Office and Professional Employees (OPEIU).
A hardworking young man, Julien Johnson goes beyond the call of duty at the regional labor council and for students in the Building Futures–MC3 Program. Johnson has worked with groups like the Ohio Legislative Black Caucus, NAACP, A. Philip Randolph Institute, Coalition of Labor Union Women and Coalition of Black Trade Unionists, fighting for workers' rights and the rights of people of color throughout Ohio.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 02/01/2022 - 10:00Tags: Black History Month
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: UA Celebrates Massive Increase of Work Hours in Biden’s First Year
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 United Association of Union Plumbers and Pipefitters (UA) reacted on Thursday to recent news reports, which show President Joe Biden is far ahead of his predecessor in approving projects on public lands that are putting UA members to work. The union lauded the fact that in Biden’s first year in office, UA members put in 6.6 million work hours in the pipeline industry—1.4 million more hours than the year before.
“President Biden knows our energy future can only be built with an all-of-the-above energy approach. We’ve already seen UA man-hours in the pipeline industry increase in his first year alone—and we’re poised to grow our market share even more as a streamlined permitting process and increased infrastructure funding mean more projects for our members,” said UA Director of Pipeline and Gas Distribution Chad Gilbert.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 02/01/2022 - 09:30People Over Corporate Profits: 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:
Each year organized labor from all corners of Alabama gather in Montgomery for the Legislative Appreciation/Road Kill BBQ. Locals from several Internationals proudly display their grilling skills & surprising recipes. This year we are forced to cancel the event. #1U #COVID19 pic.twitter.com/UoJ7hc10ln
— Alabama AFL-CIO (@AlabamaAFLCIO) January 25, 2022Alaska AFL-CIO:
Great news coming out of H L&C! It’s time to get HB 220 across the finish line and on the desk of @GovDunleavy! #akleg #1u https://t.co/LazdqT8jpY
— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) January 27, 2022Arizona AFL-CIO:
🧵We're excited to announce the launch of the Arizona Labor Dispatch — a weekly email newsletter for union members, pro-worker activists, and supporters of Arizona's labor movement. pic.twitter.com/HdTL55AoEM
— Arizona AFL-CIO (@ArizonaAFLCIO) January 21, 2022California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:
Today, legislators will have the opportunity to once again make CA a national leader. #AB1400 would make high quality health care more affordable and more accessible to ALL. #CALeg, send the message that we put people over corporate profits!#CalCare #UnionStrong
— California Labor Federation (@CaliforniaLabor) January 31, 2022Colorado AFL-CIO:
👀 Keep your eyes out. Railroaders may strike to ensure they can spend time with family. This video explains what is at stake. #copolitics https://t.co/KbALG2iKXs
— Colorado AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOCO) January 24, 2022Connecticut AFL-CIO:
"No one should have to work two or three jobs because they can’t make enough at one job or a second job," said one worker, who asked to remain anonymous due to fear of retaliation. #UnionYES #1u https://t.co/zERUsyyQ8p
— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) January 28, 2022Florida AFL-CIO:
“These positions are some of the most powerful unelected positions in the state that control billions of dollars in public funds,” Gothard said. “This law is a recipe for corruption, where Florida students are left paying the ultimate price.”https://t.co/92mnvyaDdS
— Florida AFL-CIO (@FLAFLCIO) January 28, 2022Georgia State AFL-CIO:
Georgia’s future is on the line. The stakes of this election could not be higher. We know Stacey Abrams is the governor Georgia needs and our unions are ready to give her our full support. #1u pic.twitter.com/EU3SZvlzrL
— Georgia AFL-CIO // Pass The #ProAct (@AFLCIOGeorgia) January 27, 2022Indiana State AFL-CIO:
The point of threatening Indiana’s underpaid teachers with litigation is a calculated effort by politicians to silence teachers and create classrooms devoid of content that acknowledge the deep divisions in our society.
https://t.co/vehYIm48CK
Iowa Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO:
The latest Iowa Daily Labor News! https://t.co/UpzmK4F9iR Thanks to @CWAUnion @SEIU #protectallworkers
— Iowa AFL-CIO (@IowaAFLCIO) January 31, 2022Kentucky State AFL-CIO:
502.852.5417 https://t.co/EBX9NjMgUP
— Kentucky AFL-CIO (@aflcioky) January 18, 2022Maine AFL-CIO:
Federal firefighters work 72-hour weeks to protect our Naval bases & our communities. We interviewed two of them this week to discuss the critical work they do & Federal Firefighters Fairness Act (HR 2499).https://t.co/qrqPFKMpnn@IAFFNewsDesk #mepolitics
— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) January 28, 2022Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
#ThankAUnion every weekend, but especially during weekends with two feet of snow coming #1u #solidarity pic.twitter.com/Nc9QpjNUu4
— Massachusetts AFL-CIO // Build Back Better (@massaflcio) January 28, 2022Michigan State AFL-CIO:
.@GovWhitmer's plan to repeal the #PensionTax means NO TAXES on retirement income by 2025! pic.twitter.com/im0KrJ2a5N
— Michigan AFL-CIO 💉💪 (@MIAFLCIO) January 31, 2022Minnesota AFL-CIO:
Unions are ‘strike-ready’ to win urgent demands (via @MNReformer) https://t.co/bteCLTpUZY #1u pic.twitter.com/twDlNBOIcT
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) January 31, 2022Missouri AFL-CIO:
The Missouri Apprentice Ready program in Kansas City is currently accepting applications for their next classes. Applications are due by February 1st. Learn more and apply here: https://t.co/OvlkOGH3nU pic.twitter.com/37MEugCnml
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) January 31, 2022Montana State AFL-CIO:
Our freedom of speech in the workplace is the most important right we have in our daily lives. Learn more at https://t.co/KeJEOPFmGM. #unionstrong #knowyourrights pic.twitter.com/H5qC6uLQmX
— Montana AFL-CIO (@MTaflcio) January 31, 2022Nevada State AFL-CIO:
Susie Martinez, Exec. Secretary-Treasurer “I know how hard housekeepers work. I worked the front desk for 30+ years. We have to make sure hotels follow SB4 rules for #DailyRoomCleaning and disinfecting and doing all the things they are required to protect employees and guests” pic.twitter.com/KmVsZ7KcFL
— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) January 28, 2022New Hampshire AFL-CIO:
ASCFME's Bobby Jones and IBEW's Sen. Kevin Cavanagh show their support for the Nashua Teachers' Union (AFT local 1044)! With allies like this, how can Nashua's teachers possibly loose? @NTULocal1044 @AFTNewHampshire @AFSCME @SEIU1984 @AFSCME @AFSCME93 @IBEW @UAW2322 pic.twitter.com/vWdXPIJqrW
— NewHampshire AFL-CIO (@NHAFLCIO) January 31, 2022New York State AFL-CIO:
The New York State AFL-CIO applauds the recommendation made by the Farm Laborers Wage Board this afternoon. Read the statement by NYS AFL-CIO President Mario Cilento: https://t.co/B8U0UjOTHF
— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) January 28, 2022North Carolina State AFL-CIO:
Woot woot! Congratulations, Madam President Helena Thornton! 🎉👏✊ First Woman President of Victory Lodge 1725 https://t.co/tRK6F6iIpV via @MachinistsUnion @1725Lodge #1u
— NC State AFL-CIO // #OrganizeTheSouth (@NCStateAFLCIO) January 26, 2022Ohio AFL-CIO:
Last week, we showed the #Youngstown billboard thanking @TimRyan for his vote to pass the @POTUS bipartisan #Infrastructure Bill that will create 560,000 jobs in all 88 counties. But don't worry Trumbull County, this one is on the Warren outerbelt. pic.twitter.com/EvWbOHb3lr
— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) January 31, 2022Oregon AFL-CIO:
#OregonLabor is ready to do some amazing work in the 2022 #OrLeg. Here’s a rundown of everything we’re fighting for: https://t.co/tGIBqVO4AG
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) January 30, 2022Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:
Honored to see @AFLCIO’s @STRedmond at @PhillyAFLCIO’s COPE Conference. “There’s a place for everyone in this labor movement!” ✊ pic.twitter.com/AbpE23HBhP
— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) January 31, 2022Rhode Island AFL-CIO:
Today, government oversight will question @RIPTA_RI & health insurance execs about a recent cyber attack. @PatCrowley401 Sec. Treasurer, RI AFL-CIO, will be there to ask how 1000s of state employees' personal data was stolen & what can be done about ithttps://t.co/YjVT6tRrn7
— Rhode Island AFL-CIO (@riaflcio) January 31, 2022Tennessee AFL-CIO Labor Council:
🚨ACTION ALERT! Discussions about worker representation should be left up to employers and employees without outside influence from anti-worker politicians. Click below to ask your legislators to vote "NO" on HB 1856! #1u https://t.co/GC4wUKTeTn
— Tennessee AFL-CIO (@tnaflcio) January 28, 2022Texas AFL-CIO:
Yesterday, our President @RickTxAFLCIO partnered with @SAALocal67, @TeriCastilloD5, & other labor leaders to honor the legacy of striking workers & specifically celebrate the legacy of Tenayuca & other women of color who fought for working people. https://t.co/fXf9yqesLs
— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) January 31, 2022Virginia AFL-CIO:
🤓🗞📰 Read all about the union efforts: https://t.co/kgwlrc9ojd #valeg #rva #UnionStrong #1u
— Virginia AFL-CIO (@Virginia_AFLCIO) January 31, 2022Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:
It's WSLC Legislative Conference day! Our favorite #WaLeg holiday. You can follow along live on Facebook as we talk about worker-first policies, speak with legislators, and get pumped for a year of action for working people: https://t.co/PWwTOspiTP pic.twitter.com/xZR5TE7JyJ
— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) January 28, 2022Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
Wausau Communications of America union members protest unfair working conditions https://t.co/LdSecczUrM
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) January 31, 2022 Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 01/31/2022 - 16:20Service + Solidarity Spotlight: Pittsburgh’s Labor Movement Responds to Shocking Bridge Collapse
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.
“Things like this should never happen in a country of ours.” That was the message from Allegheny/Fayette Central Labor Council President Darrin Kelly (IAFF), a Pittsburgh firefighter who was at the scene of the massive bridge collapse that left at least 10 people injured. “It’s just surreal to see this in our city,” he told WESA. “It underscores how important it is we realize that it’s everybody’s duty to protect each other and build a stable infrastructure.”
The major bridge collapsed around 6:39 a.m. ET, just hours before President Joe Biden planned to come to Pittsburgh to emphasize the immediate need to modernize our infrastructure by implementing the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Biden met with first responders at the site and surveyed the wreckage this afternoon. With 446 bridges in Pittsburgh, “we’re going to fix them all,” he promised. The recently enacted Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act will invest $40 billion in new bridge construction nationwide, including $1.6 billion to fix Pennsylvania’s bridges.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 01/31/2022 - 09:36Speak With One Voice: 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:
Work at Actors' Equity!
We have a full-time position open in New York - Product Owner.
Learn more and apply on our website: https://t.co/pEvipfsfj2 pic.twitter.com/fFRqOKWc0Q
AFGE:
Take a look at the latest AFGE Government Standard and read how we're working to secure as many legislative victories as we can to improve the lives of government workers and their families. #1u https://t.co/iUdyCS13AU
— AFGE (@AFGENational) January 27, 2022AFSCME:
Thanks to changes made by the Biden Admin, more working people and families are eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit (#EITC), which could lower your taxable income or give you a larger refund. See if you qualify: https://t.co/BxfuhYv6a3
— AFSCME (@AFSCME) January 28, 2022Alliance for Retired Americans:
USPS will start mailing free at-home COVID tests soon!
Make sure you order yours here: https://t.co/rs5cgbdkAShttps://t.co/gmv14xmXzA
Amalgamated Transit Union:
This morning in Pittsburgh a bridge collapsed with a bus on it, our members at Local 85 were heroes getting everyone off the bus safely. With President Biden going to Pittsburgh today to tout the historic Infrastructure bill, that ATU helped secure. #1u #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/WmRNtN4wP9
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) January 28, 2022American Federation of Musicians:
Join with us to tell Congress to restore tax fairness for working-class musicians, stage managers, singers, dancers, actors, stagehands and other arts workers by supporting the Performing Artist Tax Parity Act: https://t.co/mklKXyB5X7
— AFM (@The_AFM) January 28, 2022American Federation of Teachers:
This morning, AFT released the results of a National Survey of Public School Parent Voters conducted with Hart Research Associates and Lake Research Partners.
Here's a thread with a few of the key findings. 🧵 https://t.co/o4vSSiC13y
American Postal Workers Union:
APWU Live with President Mark Dimondstein https://t.co/CCAGyLRn19
— APWU National (@APWUnational) January 25, 2022Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance:
Tweet at your Senator to demand action on #immigration this year. We won’t accept any excuses for inaction! It’s time for Congress to keep its promise and deliver a path to citizenship: https://t.co/h6LAOCg8Dj #WeAreHome #GreenCardsNow #DisregardTheParl
— Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance, AFL-CIO (@APALAnational) January 28, 2022Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:
AFA Piedmont Flight Attendants today announced a TA that includes substantial wage increases, no cuts to healthcare program, & work rule improvements.
“We organized to mobilize action. We spoke with one voice... And we won.” https://t.co/LEWceklTS1 #1u pic.twitter.com/VkBhU8f1kN
Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers:
Jon Donaire workers on strike in Sante Fe Springs, Calif. are only asking for a $1 per year raise over the 3-year contract.
Read this letter from U.S. House of Representatives 👉 https://t.co/yIR6CPEfxQ#RichProductsPoorWorkers pic.twitter.com/1fv9AQfLd8
Boilermakers:
#Boilermakers l👀k out for the monthly issue of the IBB Update that hits inboxes Friday 📥
Not subscribed? Sign-up for news updates here: https://t.co/6rInXnDk2V pic.twitter.com/yuh0m7xEbr
Bricklayers:
"I think the tragedy is that we have a Congress with a Senate that has a minority of misguided senators who will use the filibuster to keep the majority of people from even voting." - Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., 1963 #MLKDay2022 pic.twitter.com/UcY3lriOtj
— Bricklayers Union (@IUBAC) January 17, 2022California School Employees Association:
CSEA is proud to sponsor @NancySkinnerCA's #SB878 to ensure that all public-school students are offered safe and reliable transportation to school and back home. #RoadtoSuccess https://t.co/beEHu8z1os
— CSEA (@CSEA_Now) January 25, 2022Coalition of Black Trade Unionists:
Back Together Again! #CBTU22 #unions #blacklabor #BlackLivesMatter #1u pic.twitter.com/upBJuTuP3H
— CBTU (@CBTU72) January 28, 2022Coalition of Labor Union Women:
When Virginia became the 38th state to ratify the ERA, all constitutional requirements for the ERA to become the 28th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution were satisfied. Yet, the ERA has not been published by the Archivist, who has an administrative duty to publish the amendment..
— CLUW National (@CLUWNational) January 26, 2022Communications Workers of America:
Nearly a decade has passed since Senate Democrats put an end to the filibuster for executive nominations, but Republicans, on behalf of their corporate sponsors, continue to abuse the confirmation process.
Read more from CWA President Chris Shelton:https://t.co/q3VEBrU9LX
Department for Professional Employees:
Yesterday, we joined entertainment unions and employers in urging the House and Senate to include the Performing Artist Tax Parity Act in any omnibus legislation for FY 22. https://t.co/DvFS1Et7S6
— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) January 28, 2022Electrical Workers:
— IBEW (@IBEW) January 27, 2022Fire Fighters:
Wear appropriate shoes in ice and snow and watch out for slick surfaces. Falls on ice can be deadly. #IAFFsafetytips pic.twitter.com/K53NyiIBvl
— IAFF (@IAFFNewsDesk) January 28, 2022Heat and Frost Insulators:
When disease control matters, in medical facilities for doctors, nurses, visitors & patients, insulation matters. https://t.co/poXrkoAd0r
— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) January 28, 2022International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers:
Leadership at @amprog should be ashamed of their employees making $42k a year while living in one of the most expensive cities in America. Embarrassing. We stand with @UnionAtCAP!
— IFPTE (@IFPTE) January 26, 2022Ironworkers:
Major labor unions are pushing the National Labor Relations Board to restore Obama-era precedent that made it easier for unions to organize small groups of a company's employees, over the objections of business groups.https://t.co/oRBsrF32Fu
— Ironworkers. (@TheIronworkers) January 25, 2022Jobs With Justice:
Big news for 390,000 federal contractors. https://t.co/EoFUpELJ2i
— Jobs With Justice (@jwjnational) January 28, 2022Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:
LCLAA Congratulates Xiomara Castro the First Female President of Honduras and urges the Biden-Harris administration to support policies that honor the rights and improve the lives of people in Honduras. #honduras #president pic.twitter.com/wwMw4b7VAA
— LCLAA (@LCLAA) January 27, 2022Labor Heritage Foundation:
JANUARY 27: Online screening, With Babies and Banners (with filmmaker Lyn Goldfarb). This Oscar-nominated documentary tells the dramatic story of the women of the great General Motors sit-down strike— an event that changed American labor history. Register:https://t.co/oGO3tZL8Tx
— Labor Heritage (@LaborHeritage1) January 25, 2022Laborers:
Good news! #LIUNA #UnionStrong https://t.co/Bh3MIvHMVq
— LIUNA (@LIUNA) January 28, 2022Machinists:
It's the least we can do for those who sacrificed everything for our freedom. Machinists Union members volunteer cleaning up wreaths at @ArlingtonNatl. pic.twitter.com/20UCESTxbi
— Machinists Union (@MachinistsUnion) January 28, 2022Metal Trades Department:
The sentiments of Dr. King ring as true today as they did in 1958. I will continue to stand up for what is right for working families, even in the most challenging of times and circumstances. Will you join me? pic.twitter.com/bIYo6G3SN7
— Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) January 17, 2022Mine Workers:
Alabama coalminers on strike for 10 months vow not to be ‘starved out’ https://t.co/ZNsbjKhpLg
— United Mine Workers (@MineWorkers) January 26, 2022Musical Artists:
AGMA Announces New National Executive Director: https://t.co/gvs8DVR6xP pic.twitter.com/gUfqPny2nM
— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) January 28, 2022National Air Traffic Controllers Association:
.@NATCACharitable supported more than 30 holiday programs across the country. NATCA members at facilities in 19 states led the contributions to holiday charity programs. https://t.co/idYI9wfy3K pic.twitter.com/2EOmpGkizI
— NATCA (@NATCA) January 28, 2022National Association of Broadcast Employees and Technicians-CWA:
ABC Negotiations: Bulletin #12#negotiations #bulletin #Union pic.twitter.com/u17v5h7aOj
— NABET-CWA (@NABETCWA) January 25, 2022National Association of Letter Carriers:
Does one of your fellow letter carriers deserve to be highlighted? Let us know who (+ a photo), the branch, & why they deserve the highlight via email at social@nalc.org. There's a chance your fellow letter carrier will be featured in our new #MemberMonday series. pic.twitter.com/VZmjDuGyhc
— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) January 28, 2022National Day Laborer Organizing Network:
4 months ago, we launched a Blue Ribbon Commission (BRC) of workers and worker orgs from across the country that have confronted/denounced workplace abuse. The goal: Make visible the rampant abuses facing migrants and demand action by President Biden to respect their rights. 1/7 pic.twitter.com/sozFBCK6c4
— NDLON (@NDLON) January 26, 2022National Domestic Workers Alliance:
The pandemic exposed what many care workers already knew to be true…
That care workers are underpaid and overworked and without them other work wouldn’t be possible. The Senate needs to invest in care workers because #CareCantWait https://t.co/qZ2QwhsOcA
National Federation of Federal Employees:
From article below, NFFE-IAM President Randy Erwin: “This is a tremendous stride towards ensuring all federal workers are paid a living wage that allows for them to provide for their families. No employee working for the federal government should be struggling to make ends meet.” https://t.co/LMZLReC4Hz
— NFFE (@NFFE_Union) January 21, 2022National Nurses United:
Earlier this month #UnionStrong RNs paid tribute to fallen nurses in a powerful candlelight vigil outside the White House and called to end preventable nurse deaths.
It’s time President @JoeBiden follow through on his promise to #ProtectNurses and prioritize public health. pic.twitter.com/aa7PmkFjpk
NWSL Players Association:
It’s time. #ContractNow pic.twitter.com/0l1UnObZxR
— NWSLPA (@nwsl_players) January 25, 2022NFL Players Association:
Not only do we have @nflpabowl guys in town – but some familiar rookie faces are here signing their @PaniniAmerica trading cards 😎 @8kMike @ZachWilson @TheRealF1ash pic.twitter.com/bQiFuGuk6e
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) January 28, 2022North America's Building Trades Unions:
“There's no reason in the 21st century why people are still exposed to this substance that was poisoning people back in the 18th century.”@VP is visiting Milwaukee to discuss the good-paying, union jobs that will come from lead pipe removal 👏https://t.co/0Ta82cfyZx
— The Building Trades (@NABTU) January 24, 2022Office and Professional Employees:
Unionizing is one of the most effective forms of self-care. And one of the only kinds that could possibly lead to you owning a sweet bomber jacket. https://t.co/2D6QMKEhQZ
— OPEIU ║ #PassThePROAct ✊ (@OPEIU) January 25, 2022Painters and Allied Trades:
Our union’s trades build vital & transformational infrastructure that profoundly impacts how we live like hospitals.
IUPAT DC 39 LU 1984 is hard at work on the new Acute Care Hospital in Corner Brook, Newfoundland, expanding their long-term care facility and cancer care program. pic.twitter.com/nxIBuqYsIe
Plasterers and Cement Masons:
— OPCMIA International (@opcmiaintl) January 25, 2022Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:
"The pandemic has proven just how essential farmworkers are in our lives and finding a path to paid overtime after a 40-hour week is the moral thing to do."
Lower the OT threshold for NY farmworkers to 40 hrs/wk! #FarmworkerOvertime @jessicaramos https://t.co/GAoQzh08Si
Roofers and Waterproofers:
Welcome to the movement, #GenU! Let's see tens of thousands of you unite and organize and make it happen. Let's normalize #union workplaces in America. @SBWorkersUnited https://t.co/WPCbr4onue
— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) January 28, 2022SAG-AFTRA:
The Performing Artist Tax Parity Act (PATPA) would provide tax relief to our members making less than 100k (or 200k w/ spouse). #PATPA levels the playing field for arts workers.
We’re only 2,289 more signatures away from reaching our goal of 25,600!
Sign: https://t.co/OmnIePZBNU
Solidarity Center:
148 #journalists in #Mexico have been killed since 2000, making it the deadliest country in the Western Hemisphere in which to practice journalism, per @pressfreedom https://t.co/tvbNmczduR
— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) January 28, 2022The NewsGuild-CWA:
Solidarity with @sfcguild in the fight for a fair contract! https://t.co/JqsW70cjFz
— NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) January 28, 2022Theatrical Stage Employees:
Architects are trained creative professionals facing issues similar to those faced by entertainment workers, including uncompensated OT, over-use of unpaid internships, and employee misclassification.
We stand with architectural workers' right to organize w @arch_workers_u! pic.twitter.com/6bh2KcBmmd
Transport Workers Union:
.@bridgetfleming has always been a champion for working people. We need her in DC now to fight for good, union jobs. https://t.co/PfShmitAPd
— TWU (@transportworker) January 27, 2022Transportation Trades Department:
Congratulations to Deirdre Hamilton on being sworn in at the National Mediation Board, the government body that facilitates labor-management relations in the aviation and rail industries. Her swearing-in restores a pro-worker majority to the Board. ✊ https://t.co/IPqrmzWUIr
— Transportation Trades Department (@TTDAFLCIO) January 26, 2022UAW:
Taxes should be fairer for seniors and working people. @GovWhitmer wants to repeal the retirement tax, saving half a million households an average of $1,000 a year. #MISOTS22
— UAW (@UAW) January 27, 2022Union Veterans Council:
Across the country union veterans are stepping up to run for office, at all levels! @steelworkers union veteran @chazforcongress is just one more example of how this community continues to serve, check his story out! #1u #UnionVets https://t.co/yVI4ERyqPL
— Union Veterans Council🪖✊ Pass the #PROAct (@unionveterans) January 24, 2022UNITE HERE:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Hotel Workers Hold National Day of Action Shining Light on “Shadow Bosses” Driving Cuts to Services in the Hospitality Industry
—With Events in 21 Cities, UNITE HERE Calls to Close Hotel Owners’ Tax Loophole, End Job Cuts
RELEASE: https://t.co/kHctxCuokn pic.twitter.com/aT5R3BT312
United Food and Commercial Workers:
🥮Today is #NationalChocolateCakeDay and we want to thank all UFCW members in grocery stores and bakeries across the country, who help make everyone's celebrations sweeter.
Visit your UFCW store today and pick up some delicious union-made chocolate cakes! pic.twitter.com/WUP2iZeata
United Steelworkers:
The National Labor Relations Board says the nascent Amazon Labor Union has enough support from workers to hold an election for a Staten Island work site https://t.co/QK8Nqk6rHi via @WSJ
— United Steelworkers (@steelworkers) January 28, 2022United Students Against Sweatshops:
Spend your Valentine's eve demanding that universities put students and workers over profit 😘💖Join us on Sunday 2/13 for campaign updates, guest speakers, and more as we kick off another semester of organizing! Register: https://t.co/KpRbTYaduH pic.twitter.com/d3W1bIFL1M
— USAS (@USAS) January 25, 2022Utility Workers:
What’s your favorite pro-worker film? 🎬 Bonus points for one from the past 15 years! https://t.co/xdgHDf84J4
— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) January 28, 2022Working America:
We are stronger when we stick together! #strikekingsoopershttps://t.co/sL4CpotIHc
— Working America | Pass the #PROAct (@WorkingAmerica) January 23, 2022Writers Guild of America, East:
Listen to the latest from the #OnWritingPodcast now!
Shownotes and the episode transcript: https://t.co/koxnpMwCg4 https://t.co/Ke87E1113f
How Our Collective Voices Can Be Heard: Worker Wins
Despite the challenges of organizing during a deadly pandemic, working people across the country (and beyond) continue organizing, bargaining and mobilizing for a better life. This edition begins with:
Slate Workers Ratify Second Union Contract as Members of WGAE: The 56 members of Slate Union-WGAE unanimously ratified their second contract with the online magazine, Writers Guild of America, East (WGAE) announced on Monday. The new three-year contract includes significant wage increases, 13 weeks of paid parental leave and a budget of $10,000 a year for diversity initiatives, to be spent at the discretion of the labor-management committee. Workers at Slate won union recognition in January 2018, and ratified their first collective bargaining agreement in January 2019. The Slate bargaining committee said: “In just more than three years since our first contract with the WGAE, the union has significantly improved the economic and employment conditions of Slate’s staff. This contract improves upon the previous one with five additional weeks of parental leave, higher salary floors, guaranteed increases in annual cost of living raises for more than half of the staff, and other critical benefits. We are proud of the work we did with the WGAE to secure this contract and are hopeful for the future of Slate.”
IAFF Gains New Affiliate in Michigan: The Fire Fighters (IAFF) welcomed the new members of Perry Fire Rescue-IAFF Local 5360 as the international union’s newest affiliated union in Michigan. “The Michigan Professional Fire Fighters Union leadership has done an incredible job organizing new IAFF locals and increasing membership,” said IAFF 8th District Vice President Mark Sanders. “Our new Perry Rescue Local 5360 members will be great assets to the 8th District and the state of Michigan. It is great to have them as part of the IAFF family.” The Perry Area Fire Rescue is a combination fire department with a growing number of full-time firefighters who provide fire and EMS response to several jurisdictions in Shiawassee County. “As decisions are being made about the future of our department, we want to make sure we have a seat at the table,” said Local 5360 President Seth Arabanas. “We look forward to doing our part to move our department forward and to network with other IAFF locals like ours.”
UFCW Members at King Soopers Ratify Agreement to End Strike: After a 10-day strike, thousands of workers at King Soopers in Colorado, represented by United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 7, ratified a three-year collective bargaining agreement with their employer on Monday. This groundbreaking contract meets many of the union members’ demands, including significant wage increases, better health care and pension benefits, new paths to full-time employment and enhanced safety measures at work. “From the beginning of this process, we promised our members that we would procure the very best contract we could. We are excited that our members voted overwhelmingly to ratify this industry-leading contract that will ensure King Soopers will respect and protect Essential Workers as well as pay them fairly,” said Local 7 President Kim Cordova. “This would not have been possible without the support of our allies throughout Colorado and across the country. To those who stood alongside our members, honored the picket line, and showed up in solidarity, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.”
IATSE Local 8’s Training Center in Philadelphia Secures $1 Million State Grant: With a proud legacy of preparing workers for good union jobs in Pennsylvania’s entertainment industry, Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 8 will receive $1 million from the state to expand its training center in Philadelphia. State Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler announced the grant award on Jan. 14, which will support Local 8’s project to renovate its facility and train more entertainment workers. “The entertainment industry is one of the fastest growing segments in our economy. As we continue to grow and service this industry, we are pressed to provide the training necessary to keep the work in Pennsylvania,” said former Local 8 President and Business Manager Michael Barnes, who is now IATSE’s first international vice president. “Working with Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler, Local 8 was successful in obtaining state matching funding to expand our training facility to address the anticipated demand for entertainment following the COVID-19 pandemic.”
Raven Workers Launch Video Game Union: Workers at Raven Software’s quality assurance (QA) department on Jan. 21 launched their new union, the Game Workers Alliance Union, with the Communications Workers of America (CWA). They are seeking voluntary recognition from their employer as a supermajority of workers expressed their desire to form a union at the studio owned by video game giant Activision Blizzard. These video game employees mostly work on the popular Call of Duty series. “Today, I am proud to join with a supermajority of my fellow workers to build our union, Game Workers Alliance (CWA). In the video game industry, specifically Raven QA, people are passionate about their jobs and the content they are creating,” said Becka Aigner, QA functional tester II at Raven. “We want to make sure that the passion from these workers is accurately reflected in our workplace and the content we make. Our union is how our collective voices can be heard by leadership.” On Dec. 6, more than 60 Raven workers walked out in protest after Activision Blizzard laid off 12 of the studio’s QA testers. The Raven QA strike was the third work stoppage since Activision Blizzard was sued in late July over sexual harassment and misconduct claims. Earlier this week, CWA responded to Microsoft’s plan to acquire Activision Blizzard and called for workers’ voices to be heard in the future direction of the company.
WGAE Members at Salon Ratify Second Collective Bargaining Agreement: Salon staffers unanimously ratified their second contract since joining the Writers Guild of America, East (WGAE). The new three-year contract includes salary increases, minimums salaries, longevity bonuses, expanded paid parental leave, strong diversity language and other benefits. In a statement, the Salon bargaining committee said: “We worked hard and in good faith with management to secure a contract that will vastly improve life for current and future employees. We believe the contract will not only lift the standards at Salon, but in the industry. Raising the salary floor and pay equity were high priorities for us, and now no WGAE member will make under $60,000. And our minimums for all titles better reflect the quality of our work and the dedication of our colleagues.”
Veterinary Workers in Upstate New York Make History, Vote to Join IAM: Veterinary assistants and technicians in Brighton, New York, voted overwhelmingly to form a union with the Machinists (IAM)—and these new union members are the first veterinary workers on the East Coast to form a union. The National Labor Relations Board announced the results in mid-January as more than two-thirds of workers voted in favor of forming the VSES Employees for Change-IAM to collectively bargain with their employer. Sam Estes, an ultrasound technician, told WXXI News: “We’re gonna band together and actually be able to have the conversations we’ve been hoping for and hopefully they’ll be good negotiating partners through that process with us.” “This historic election resulted from courageous workers in the veterinary industry who not only wanted to make change for themselves but wished to set an example for veterinary workers all across the nation,” IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr. said. “I congratulate Liz Hughston and the National Veterinary Professionals Union for their partnership to make this victory a reality. Today’s victory put the veterinary industry and private equity investors on notice about making sure their business model is based on equity and respect.”
New Jersey State AFL-CIO Gets Pro-Worker Bills Over the Finish Line: The New Jersey State AFL-CIO is celebrating a string of legislative victories that came at the tail end of the state’s last legislative session. Several pieces of legislation advocated for by the state federation and its affiliates passed both houses or were signed into law this month. They include the Responsible Collective Negotiations Act, which ends the ability to impose contracts, creates a new topic of “permissive” subjects of negotiations and fixes several membership issues caused by the U.S. Supreme Court’s Janus v. AFSCME decision. The state legislature also passed bills to toughen penalties for assaults on New Jersey’s transit workers, promote apprenticeship programs in public works projects and mandate periodic cancer screening for firefighters. New Jersey State AFL-CIO officers, President Charles Wowkanech (IUOE) and Secretary-Treasurer Laurel Brennan (Workers United), said: “As a new legislative session begins today, the New Jersey State AFL-CIO thanks legislative leadership, Gov. [Phil] Murphy and all the legislators that voted in support of a pro-worker agenda throughout the ‘lame duck’ session of the legislature that ends today.”
Maine Democratic Party Staffers Gain Voluntary Recognition of New IBEW Local: Staffers at the Maine Democratic Party voted to be represented by IBEW Local 1837 and the party voluntarily recognized the new unit. “We’re all really excited. All of our staff are very much on board with it,” said April Thibodeau, party affairs director and a shop steward. “By forming a union, we hope that we can set better work-life boundaries, create more permanency in our staff, and strengthen the relationship between the Maine Democratic Party and the labor movement in Maine.”
Art Institute of Chicago Workers United Certified by NLRB: Employees at the Art Institute of Chicago voted to form a union, becoming an affiliate of AFSCME. The Council 31 unit consists of 266 art installers, curators, custodians, librarians and retail workers. “Winning our union means a voice in our workplace and a chance to improve working conditions for ourselves, our colleagues and those who will follow us for generations to come,” said museum archivist Anna Feuer. The new union members are seeking higher wages and better working conditions.
Animation Guild Organizes First Company Outside of Los Angeles with Titmouse Studio in New York: Employees at Titmouse, the New York studio that produced "Harriet the Spy" and "Superjail!," have voted to join The Animation Guild, IATSE Local 839. This is the first group of employees from outside of Los Angeles County to organize with the guild since it was chartered in 1952. Titmouse management voluntarily recognized the union, which includes 3-D modelers, directors, storyboard artists, prop designers and others. The new union is seeking to review worker classification and role definitions, improve overtime payments and unrealistic schedules, set wage floors and upgrade health benefits. “I’m overjoyed that my students and young peers will be able to thrive in an environment that supports them from today forward. To my fellow New Yorkers in animation and production, I’m confident that our collective pain is being recognized now that we have a seat at the table,” said Titmouse story artist Chrissy Fellmeth.
WGAE Members at Jewish Currents Ratify First Union Contact: Seven members of the Writers Guild of America, East (WGAE) who work at Jewish Currents unanimously ratified their first union contract with their employer this month. Founded in 1946 and relaunched in 2018, Jewish Currents is a daily digital and quarterly print publication dedicated to covering the Jewish left, and the left more broadly. The editorial staff organized with the WGAE in July 2020 and received immediate voluntary recognition. Their inaugural contract includes significant wage increases and improvements to benefits. Lowell Peterson, WGAE’s executive director, said, “The editorial staff at Jewish Currents won a contract that includes fair pay, benefits, work-hours and a seat at the table with the Board of Directors. It is through the power of collective bargaining that workers can win a real voice in their work life.”
IUOE Local 49 in Minneapolis Approves New Contract, Cancels Potential Strike: Members of Operating Engineers (IUOE) Local 49 who work for the city of Minneapolis ratified a new contract in early January. The union, which represents 110 public service workers who are equipment operators and mechanics, had voted last month to authorize a strike if necessary. “This was a challenging negotiation, but it has now come to an end, and our members look forward to continuing to do the work necessary to make the city of Minneapolis function,” Local 49 said in a statement. “Budgets are a priority document, and we expect Twin Cities public sector entities to make their frontline workers more of a priority in future years. Our members keep cities operating and they have earned that respect.”
Columbia University Student Workers Tentatively Approve New Contract: Student workers at Columbia University tentatively agreed to a new contract that raises wages and improves health benefits. The workers ended a 10-week strike upon reaching the tentative agreement. The contract includes pay raises, dental insurance, an emergency medical fund and other benefits. “It has been a really, really long road,” said Lilian Coie, a member of the bargaining committee. “Even though the agreement isn’t perfect, we’re very happy with it.”
Image Comics Staffers Form Comic Book Workers United: Creating the first union in comics publishing, workers at Image Comics voted to form Comic Book Workers United (CBWU), an affiliate of the Communications Workers of America. “We’re beyond thrilled to announce that today we, Comic Book Workers United, have WON our union election, making Image Comics the FIRST unionized comic book publisher in the United States,” a statement from CBWU said....Winning this election is only the beginning—as always, we are #drawninsolidarity and are eager to continue working together with CWA on the next steps towards securing a strong, fair, and exemplary first contract for comic book publishing workers.”
Federal Firefighters Secure New Benefits and Safety Measures: Firefighters who work for the federal government will enjoy new benefits and safer working conditions with the passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), recently signed into law by President Biden. A priority provision for the Fire Fighters (IAFF) in the 2022 NDAA will permit federal firefighters to voluntarily swap shifts. It also establishes a new parental bereavement leave benefit and requires the Department of Defense to prevent the use of toxic chemicals in firefighting foams. “The demanding 72-hour workweek required of our federal fire fighters is nothing short of brutal. I know firsthand just how difficult it can be to tend to personal or family matters without the flexibility of shift trades,” said IAFF General President Edward Kelly. “Correction of this oversight is long overdue, and I am confident this legislative victory will go a long way in resetting the work-life balance of those impacted. I am also very pleased that our federal brothers and sisters will have access to a new parental bereavement leave benefit available to them following the loss of a child. Perhaps most importantly, the provisions around toxics [perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)] will provide additional tools to extinguish cancer from the fire service.”
Workers at Politics and Prose Form First Bookstore Union in Washington, D.C.: Workers at bookstores and cafés across the country are joining together to have a collective voice on the job. The employees at Washington, D.C.’s Politics and Prose are among a growing number of these workers forming unions, having received voluntary recognition from their employer. The new members of United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 400 are the first workers at a bookstore in the nation’s capital to create a union. “We are proud to join the growing movement of booksellers and baristas across the country who have unionized their workplaces,” said the Politics and Prose Workers Union organizing committee. “Forming our union has not only served as an affirmation of our shared values within the Politics and Prose community, it will also strengthen our workplace and ensure the long-term success of our beloved community hub. We look forward to negotiating our first contract and welcoming more bookstore workers in D.C. and beyond into our union family.”
UNITE HERE Workers at Colonial Williamsburg Unanimously Ratify New Contract: Workers at Colonial Williamsburg, members of UNITE HERE Local 25, voted unanimously to ratify their new contract. The new contract includes pay increases, dramatic changes to mandatory overtime policies, a new system for assigning overtime and other benefits. “We have said throughout this campaign that teaching history should not mean re-living it at work,” said John Boardman, executive secretary-treasurer of UNITE HERE Local 25. “Now, our members can take pride in the fact that they have won 21st-century working conditions at Colonial Williamsburg.”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 01/28/2022 - 10:00Service + Solidarity Spotlight: New Partnership Expands Veteran Job Opportunities in Southern California’s Utility Sector
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service + Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
The Utility Workers Military Assistance Program (UMAP), in partnership with Utility Workers (UWUA) Local 132 and Southern California Gas (SoCalGas), recently launched a new program to tackle homelessness among veterans through training and employment opportunities. UMAP’s effective training-to-placement model will benefit 40 veterans over the next several months, and those who successfully graduate will work for SoCal Gas as leak technicians.
“This exciting new partnership between UMAP and SoCal Gas will create a clear path forward for veterans who otherwise may have faced uncertainty about what to do next after leaving the military,” said UWUA Director of Veterans Affairs and Workforce Development Rick Passarelli. “Veterans are looking for a hand up and not a handout, and this program is a lifeline when they need it. We’re excited this program can begin to benefit veterans in California.”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 01/28/2022 - 09:27Service + Solidarity Spotlight: UFCW Members at King Soopers Ratify Agreement to End Strike
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.
After a 10-day strike, thousands of workers at King Soopers in Colorado, represented by United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 7, ratified a three-year collective bargaining agreement with their employer on Monday. This groundbreaking contract meets many of the union members’ demands, including significant wage increases, better health care and pension benefits, new paths to full-time employment and enhanced safety measures at work.
“From the beginning of this process, we promised our members that we would procure the very best contract we could. We are excited that our members voted overwhelmingly to ratify this industry-leading contract that will ensure King Soopers will respect and protect Essential Workers as well as pay them fairly,” said Local 7 President Kim Cordova. “This would not have been possible without the support of our allies throughout Colorado and across the country. To those who stood alongside our members, honored the picket line, and showed up in solidarity, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.”
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 01/26/2022 - 09:27Service + Solidarity Spotlight: Elevator Constructors Commend Efforts to Protect Children from Dangerous In-Home Elevators
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.
Three companies that sell in-home elevators agreed to federal regulators’ request earlier this month to recall their products for being dangerous to children. Elevator Constructors (IUEC) General President Frank Christensen welcomed the companies’ recall, as well as the work of regulators at the Consumer Product Safety Commission and advocacy groups like Kids in Danger that helped make it happen.
“Residential elevators, when not properly installed, inspected and modified, are not safe, especially for children who have been hurt and even killed after becoming trapped between residential elevators’ interior car and exterior hall doors. The gap between these two doors—ultimately, a very preventable issue—turns in-home elevators into death traps,” Christensen explained in a press release last week. “As long as this hazard exists, our union will do everything in its power to assist in identifying a sustainable, affordable solution to this problem, which we strongly believe should include a combination of regular inspections, proper registration policies and the incorporation of space guards where needed.”
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 01/25/2022 - 09:28
