Devastating Impact: In the States Roundup
It's time once again to take a look at the ways working people are making progress in the states. Click on any of the links to follow the state federations on Twitter.
Alaska AFL-CIO:
Red and blue states are facing the same devastating impact from the pandemic. @SenDanSullivan and @lisamurkowski it's time you pass federal aid for states, cities, towns and schools! #FundtheFrontLines
ACT NOW: Call your senator at 1-888-981-9704. https://t.co/ciHvUbyNXe
Arizona AFL-CIO:
Arizona's Electoral College! Proud to have Arizona's Labor Movement represented so prominently! https://t.co/c5MIM7kSW1
— Arizona AFL-CIO // #VotersDecided (@ArizonaAFLCIO) December 14, 2020California Labor Federation:
Here's the kicker. Not only are Californians stuck subsidizing these benefit fees after Uber's $78 billion IPO valuation -- these benefits are still 50% less than what drivers were guaranteed before Prop. 22.
California voters were duped. https://t.co/cuIdsv5vvr
Colorado AFL-CIO:
Here is what needs to happen ensure Colorado worker health and safety during the rest of the COVID-19 pandemic (all five, not just one or two on the list): https://t.co/0Hn0FsSUMa#copol #copolitics #coleg
— Colorado AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOCO) December 10, 2020Connecticut AFL-CIO:
We are saddened to inform you that former @AFTCT President Sharon Palmer has passed away. She was a fierce advocate for working people and she will be greatly missed. https://t.co/XtRPoofhi7
— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) December 8, 2020Florida AFL-CIO:
“The Century Foundation reports up to 12 million workers rely on unemployment programs, including nearly 500,000 in Florida. These workers could lose their benefits when two main CARES Act programs expire.”https://t.co/RAnGMj8I4M
— Florida AFL-CIO (@FLAFLCIO) December 15, 2020Georgia State AFL-CIO:
Go big or go home! ✊
S/O to members from @IUBAC and the Augusta Federation of Trades for getting out these awesome Vote @ReverendWarnock signs! #gapol pic.twitter.com/qBSKmzQu6n
Illinois AFL-CIO:
Ralph Martire | Blame death of 'Fair Tax' on deceptive campaign from mega rich https://t.co/rud2mQMD9t via @news_gazette
— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) December 6, 2020Indiana State AFL-CIO:
Safe staffing saves lives. https://t.co/0fD4hgiYN3
— Indiana AFL-CIO (@INAFLCIO) December 15, 2020Iowa Federation of Labor:
This holiday season, millions are w/out loved ones because of this pandemic. There is hope on the horizon, but states lack the funding needed to distribute the vaccine while public service workers are being laid off. Call 1-888-981-9704 & demand your senator #FundtheFrontLines!
— Iowa AFL-CIO (@IowaAFLCIO) December 15, 2020Kansas State AFL-CIO:
As a proud member of the Alliance for a Healthy Kansas, we are more committed than ever to doing all that we can to #ExpandKanCare. Please join our effort to increase access to health care, grow our economy & strengthen our health care system in 2021! #ksleg
— Kansas AFL-CIO (@KansasAFLCIO) December 8, 2020Maine AFL-CIO:
Thank you @TigNotaro! Suzy helps run our Unemployment Assistance Group and is about to be evicted with her disabled husband if Congress fails to pass a UI extension. #mepolitics @ExtendPua https://t.co/fiuVmgjUDm
— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) December 10, 2020Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
ICYMI: Press conference to the stop deep cuts to the MBTA. Speakers included @marty_walsh, @Kim_Janey, Lee Matsueda from @massCLU, Mike Vartabedian from @IAM264Boston, and @carmensunion589.
Join the fight: https://t.co/iSMC96LIpGhttps://t.co/3L7de1zMXy
Michigan State AFL-CIO:
Thank you @dananessel for standing up for Michigan. #1u https://t.co/tz7a7ovY80
— Michigan AFL-CIO ? (@MIAFLCIO) December 10, 2020Minnesota AFL-CIO:
Minnesota lawmakers pass COVID-19 relief package for businesses, workers. https://t.co/YU92VqYDV6
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) December 15, 2020Missouri AFL-CIO:
Be the one to ask your loved ones, co-workers, or anyone online if they are okay. It could save a life. pic.twitter.com/qekfomlLJK
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) December 13, 2020Montana AFL-CIO:
Together we can save lives and protect essential workers. #mtpol #maskupmt https://t.co/vBXA4AQe3N
— Montana AFL-CIO (@MTaflcio) December 7, 2020Nebraska State AFL-CIO:
2,000 postcards sent by Nebraska union volunteers. Thank you Brother Towey #1u https://t.co/jxwfp5i8AH
— NE State AFL-CIO (@NEAFLCIO) December 13, 2020New Hampshire AFL-CIO:
Glenn Brackett and Andrew Cline: Saving taxpayers millions of dollars is an issue that should unite all of us (Union-Leader op-ed) https://t.co/mtJhJvZgzw
— NewHampshire AFL-CIO (@NHAFLCIO) December 13, 2020New Jersey State AFL-CIO:
— New Jersey AFL-CIO (@NJAFLCIO) December 10, 2020New York State AFL-CIO:
Wishing all of our brothers and sisters a happy and healthy Hanukkah! #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/6nYGmiZzoz
— NYS AFL-CIO // #VotersDecided (@NYSAFLCIO) December 10, 2020Ohio AFL-CIO:
We know this must be difficult, @RepPaulMitchell, but we applaud your courage and conviction. We wish anyone in the @ohiogop had the same love of country you have. https://t.co/gRKs4THhzW
— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) December 15, 2020Oregon AFL-CIO:
There are 17 days until 12/31. We stand together calling for #orleg to extend the eviction moratorium and provide rent assistance. https://t.co/bG88l2H3KT
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) December 14, 2020Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:
— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) December 15, 2020Rhode Island AFL-CIO:
Read letter to Governor Raimondo from @AFTunion @rifthp @PTU958 on Charter School Expansion. #1U #Education #Schools #Teachers pic.twitter.com/RGvsOh8iQI
— Rhode Island AFL-CIO (@riaflcio) December 15, 2020Tennessee AFL-CIO Labor Council:
Ongoing studies and research continue to confirm this sobering reality for many of our brothers and sisters of color, with an emphasis on social and environmental situations. https://t.co/OREMlq0tRn
— Tennessee AFL-CIO // #VotersDecided (@tnaflcio) December 15, 2020Texas AFL-CIO:
The right of state employees to join a union are under attack. We ask union members and allies to stand in solidarity with @CWA6186 & send a letter.https://t.co/3X6k8gFd2L
— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) December 14, 2020Washington State Labor Council:
WSLC President Larry Brown writes: "We can fix our tax code and ensure we all have access to the great schools, affordable health care, and community services that our families need." #1u #waleg https://t.co/Kwf1770E6y
— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) December 14, 2020Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
Send some Wisconsin-made cheer this holiday season. View our list of made-in-Wisconsin goods and services at https://t.co/zLnxNWn3jd pic.twitter.com/iT31I63pIw
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) December 15, 2020 Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 12/15/2020 - 09:30Service + Solidarity Spotlight: The Season of Giving: Two-Day Food Drive Held in St. Louis
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.
Over the weekend, the Greater St. Louis Labor Council held a two-day food drive in partnership with Neighbors Helping Neighbors, the Greater St. Louis Area Council of Boy Scouts of America and the St. Louis Area Foodbank. The event was held at five different union halls across the region on Friday and Saturday.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 12/15/2020 - 09:25Tags: COVID-19, Community Service
A Dramatic Win: 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 several groups of organizers who won voluntary recognition of their new unions.
Washington State Hospice Care Workers Vote Overwhelmingly to Join IAM: Master social workers and bereavement counselors at CHI Franciscan Hospice Care Center in University Place, Washington, voted overwhelmingly last week to join the Machinists (IAM). The vote was 37–2 and turnout was high for the new 44-person bargaining unit. “I couldn’t be more proud of everyone’s efforts in this dramatic win,” said Gary R. Allen (not pictured), the IAM general vice president of the Western Territory. “The collaborative efforts used during this campaign are improving our organizing culture and establishing the IAM in the health care industry….Our new members work in the hospice care unit—one of the most demanding and important roles in health care.” The campaign was a joint effort among the IAM’s Organizing and Healthcare departments, Western Territory and District 751.
Memphis Brewery Workers Vote to Join BCTGM: In the midst of a pandemic and in the face of an unrelenting, anti-union campaign, workers at Blue's City Brewing Company in Memphis, Tennessee, stood strong in solidarity and voted to have a voice in their workplace as members of Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers (BCTGM) Local 149. Because in-person meetings during the pandemic have been limited, the organizers used creative ways to educate and communicate with the workers throughout the campaign, including text messaging, animated videos, social media and small outdoor union gatherings while wearing masks and social distancing. ”Faith without hard work is nothing. With the very best team of organizers, I pushed on these last two weeks doing everything I could to make sure the workers were educated on their rights and felt safe in their decision to become members of our union,” said Local 149 President Letitia Malone. “We won because they believed we could.”
Minnesota Public Radio Staff Join SAG-AFTRA: The staff at Minnesota Public Radio's two music stations, 89.3 The Current and Classical MPR, have joined SAG-AFTRA, with more than 80% of employees voting to unionize. Steve Staruch, a host on Classical MPR, said: “This is an amazing day for those of us who work at Classical MPR. We have been heard, and with SAG-AFTRA’s representation, we now have a seat at the table when decisions are made about our careers and our families. With our colleagues at The Current, we look forward to negotiating contracts that acknowledge and reward our work, our dedication and our passion for serving our listeners.”
WGAE Members at Committee to Protect Journalists Ratify First Union Contract: The 30 members of the Writers Guild of America, East (WGAE), at the Committee to Protect Journalists ratified their first contract after a year of negotiations. The new three-year deal includes significant gains in salaries, worker protections and other benefits. Lowell Peterson, executive director of WGAE, said: “This collective bargaining agreement demonstrates the Committee to Protect Journalists commitment to a welcoming and innovative workplace for Guild-represented employees. It shows that employees who form a union can build upon what they love about the place they work and win real gains at the bargaining table.”
United Soccer League Players Affiliate with CWA: Members of the United Soccer League Players Association (USLPA) voted to join the Communications Workers of America (CWA). USLPA represents all United Soccer League Championship and League One players. USLPA Executive Committee member Tommy Heinemann said: “We are pleased to enter into this partnership with CWA and are grateful for the relationship we have forged over the past few years. Their union expertise combined with their proven track record of supporting workers is second to none. CWA is a community-focused organization, which aligns with our organization's belief that players play a vital role in developing and enhancing local communities. We view our collaboration with CWA as strong support for our organization in our prolonged fight to complete a historic collective bargaining agreement.”
Organizing Victory: Houston Teachers and School Staff Members Vote to Join AFT: In a huge win for the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) and the Texas labor movement, Houston educators and school support staff members voted overwhelmingly to elect the Houston Federation of Teachers (HFT) and the Houston Education Support Personnel (HESP), respectively, as their consultation organizations. More than 93% of teachers and in-school support staffers voted for HFT, and 80% of school support personnel, including school bus drivers, bus attendants, custodians and food service professionals, voted for HESP. Both unions are affiliates of AFT. Wretha Thomas, president of HESP, said: “Blue-collar workers and HESP members stand in unity with a strong voice in [the Houston Independent School District] and in Texas. We are proud to announce that all HESP blue-collar workers will have a voice at consultation. No more injustice.”
Content Creators at D.C.'s WAMU Vote to Join SAG-AFTRA: Content creators at WAMU 88.5 FM, licensed by American University, voted unanimously to be represented by SAG-AFTRA. The new union will begin negotiations toward their first contract. WAMU reporter Ally Schweitzer said: “This is a remarkable day. For the first time in the station’s history, employees have won the legal right to advocate for ourselves in the workplace. We look forward to negotiating in good faith with American University."
IAM Local 1580: Seasonal Employees at Seneca Foods Vote to Join Union: More than 193 seasonal employees at the Seneca Foods processing facility in Leicester, New York, voted to join the Machinists (IAM). The win was especially notable because even though just 30% of the workforce signed representation cards, an overwhelming majority of workers voted to join the union. The seasonal workers, most of whom are from Puerto Rico and work 12-hour shifts, will join IAM Local Lodge 1580, an affiliate of IAM District 65. “These employees have seen the disparity of how they are treated compared with how full-time workers in the facility are treated and compensated under a collective bargaining agreement,” said District 65 Directing Business Rep. Ron Warner. “They know we can make a difference, and that is why they voted for the IAM. Since the majority of the workers spoke only Spanish, I’d also like to give special thanks to [IAM] Chief of Staff Juan Negron and [Local 1580] Chief Steward Luis Diaz who were integral in communicating with our new sisters and brothers.”
IAFF Members Lead Campaign for Referendum to Hire Six New Firefighters: Members of the Fire Fighters (IAFF) Local 3432 in the small city of Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, led a campaign last month for a local referendum to increase the property tax levy to fund the hiring of six new firefighters. “Having six new firefighters/paramedics will enable us to better serve the community without exhausting our members with excessive amounts of overtime,” said Local 3432 President Tony Thomas. “The IAFF was with us every step of the way. From help with campaign strategy and messaging to the development of yard signs, mailers and ads, the international provided invaluable service and support.” Voters passed the referendum 66% to 34%.
AFM Reaches New Agreement with TV Networks: American Federation of Musicians (AFM) International President Ray Hair announced on Wednesday that the union had reached a new three-year agreement with CBS, NBC and ABC after months of difficult negotiations. In an email to members and supporters, Hair wrote: “Despite fierce resistance from the networks, we succeeded in obtaining a streaming residual when TV programs are exhibited on advertiser-supported [video on demand] (AVOD) streaming platforms. We also achieved annual wage increases and additional health and welfare contributions. The new AVOD residual is a fundamental, structural contract change that would not have been possible without the solidarity, activism, hard work and enormous time investment of all involved in the negotiations, for which I am very thankful.” The tentative agreement is subject to ratification.
Verso Books Staff Join Washington-Baltimore News Guild: Staff at Verso books voted to join the Washington-Baltimore News Guild, a unit of the NewsGuild-CWA. Managment voluntarily recogized the union. In an interview with Lithub, senior publicist Julia Judge and editor Ben Mabie said: "For many in the media, the union is, if anything, a sign of our common commitment to our work. It takes work getting the union off the ground and keeping it up. But that work of putting our shoulders on the wheel is perhaps the only thing that makes the promise of a life in publishing possible, where we can have some dignity on the job and the resources we need to make it into a lasting vocation."
California Nurses Secure New COVID-19 Protections: Members of the California Nurses Association (CNA), an affiliate of National Nurses United, secured a tremendous victory in the fight against COVID-19. New infection control measures match demands nurses have made since the beginning of the pandemic. Zenei Triunfo-Cortez, a president of CNA, said: “This is an amazing and welcome move. We applaud California for being a leader in requiring this type of testing program because it is desperately needed to fight this virus. There are simply too many asymptomatic people with Covid, and without robust testing, our hospitals will remain centers for spreading the disease instead of centers of healing as they should be.”
Philadelphia's University of the Arts Join AFT: More than 350 full-time and adjunct faculty at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia voted by 99% to join AFT. The faculty will negotiate for improved job security, livable wages, reasonable workloads, adequate health insurance and other issues. Assistant Professor Laura Frazure said: “Prior to being hired full time, I was an adjunct professor at UArts and several other institutions for 18 years—at times teaching at five different colleges. I am excited to win a union at UArts to give faculty a meaningful voice in university governance and a central role in defining the culture of the institution.”
Staffers at Film at Lincoln Center Vote 29-4 to Join UAW Local 2110: The National Labor Relations Board election included workers in film programming, development, communications and public-facing theater operations. The new unit is part of the Technical, Office and Professional Union, Local 2110 of the UAW. Dan Sullivan, an assistant programmer for Film at Lincoln Center, said: “We work at this organization because we love both the institution and the work we do. We want nothing more than the ability to concentrate on doing our jobs well, especially under these historically difficult circumstances. But in order for that to happen, we need the leverage and security that a union will bring.”
Workers at Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, Join UAW: An overwhelming majority of workers at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, have voted to join the UAW. The organizing drive succeeded in the face of challenges to the museum's operation because of COVID-19. Jon Feng, a members and visitors service representative at the museum, said: “I find this redistribution of power meaningful. I believe in our ability to work together to negotiate and then uphold a more just workplace for all.”
Kroger Workers in West Virginia Approve New Contract: By a vote of more than 3-1, members of United Food and Commercial Workers Local 400 voted to approve a new contract with Kroger. The three-year deal includes enhanced health care benefits, a program to reduce diabetes drug costs and wage increases. In a release, Local 400 said: “While no contract is perfect, this agreement is a significant improvement from the last offer that was resoundingly rejected. By standing together, we were able to preserve our health care funding for the life of the contract and make other improvements that resulted in a fair deal.”
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 12/14/2020 - 10:25Tags: Organizing
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: The Season of Giving: Local United Way Chapter Holds Annual ‘Adopt-A-Family’ Drive
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.
AFL-CIO Community Services, based in St. Joseph, Missouri, is pushing ahead with its annual Adopt-A-Family program to bring holiday joy to families in need. The program pairs donors with families who might otherwise go without Christmas celebrations this year. The United Way chapter said earlier this week that it is halfway toward meeting its goal of adopting some 400 families this year.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 12/14/2020 - 09:41Tags: COVID-19, Community Service
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: The Season of Giving: Dubuque Area Labor Harvest Ramps Up Food Distribution
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 Dubuque Area Labor Harvest last weekend distributed 193 free breakfasts to the elderly and low-income families. In addition, 57 boxes of food were delivered to those who are housebound. Later this month, the labor-sponsored food bank in Iowa will be delivering free Christmas meals to members of the community.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 12/11/2020 - 09:25Tags: Community Service, COVID-19
All Eyes on Georgia: 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:
The pandemic has left thousands of theater professionals with no income and the very real threat of losing health insurance. The #HEROESAct will help provide coverage for COBRA premiums. Tell Senate to protect artists - https://t.co/SbTun1K7Z8 pic.twitter.com/NncYtLgLkl
— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) December 9, 2020AFGE:
It is demeaning, dishonest and cruel for President Trump to support a pay freeze for feds months after he proposed a pay increase. Employees have been underpaid for years and deserve a raise, period. #1u https://t.co/R7EGLZ0RlZ
— AFGE (@AFGENational) December 9, 2020AFSCME:
Front-line workers battling the coronavirus pandemic have a critical need – child care assistance. Any relief package Congress passes must provide child care assistance to help these workers who are putting their lives on the line for their communities. https://t.co/OEX4TiJpIA
— AFSCME // #VotersDecided (@AFSCME) December 9, 2020Air Line Pilots Association:
The U.S. #airline industry and its pilots are essential to the distribution of a COVID-19 vaccine. Congress and government leaders must #ExtendPSP now to ensure critical infrastructure is in place to distribute a vaccine—American lives depend on it. https://t.co/Qtqv2MBQ4x
— ALPA (@WeAreALPA) December 10, 2020Alliance for Retired Americans:
Our loved ones are suffering and struggling to make ends meet while those who care for us battle a pandemic without protective equipment or enough hospital beds. We MUST move #ForwardTogether with real solutions to get the care we all need. pic.twitter.com/gJbTzW349u
— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) December 8, 2020Amalgamated Transit Union:
Ottawa Local fighting back strong. https://t.co/82l0dcGOBj #Labour #TogetherWeFightTogetherWeWin
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) December 9, 2020American Federation of Musicians:
#Broadway #Unions #StandUnited w/@LocalOneIATSE In Lockout ... "Sadly, @MetOpera is using this pandemic to its own benefit to lower worker pay and eliminate conditions at work for perpetuity.. https://t.co/yZO1xUm3bK @afm @AFMLocal47
— AFM (@The_AFM) December 10, 2020American Federation of Teachers:
ICYMI: Read & RT @JFT1559 @LaFedTeachers member Rosamund Looney's new blog about teaching in the "new normal" of #COVID19. #IamAFThttps://t.co/H3fi3iGRZw
— AFT (@AFTunion) December 10, 2020American Postal Workers Union:
In late November, 250 million people took part in what was widely considered the largest strike in history. Find out more about India's inspiring two-day general strike. #1u https://t.co/ChAJPPcBQj
— APWU National (@APWUnational) December 9, 2020Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance:
Huge s/o to our NC APALA member @SeeMiaRoll for her work organizing volunteers to canvass in Georgia! Keeping COVID safe and voters mobilized! #AllEyesOnGeorgia #AAPI2020 https://t.co/3GFQheOG8i
— Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance, AFL-CIO (@APALAnational) December 7, 2020Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:
?Flight Attendants & activists in #Vegas, be sure to RSVP to the upcoming #ReliefNow event outside offices of Senators Jacky Rosen & Catherine Cortez Masto!
Tuesday, 12/15
10am
333 Las Vegas Blvd.
S Las Vegas, NV 89101
RSVP: https://t.co/GES4EVbhVp#ExtendPSP #everydaycounts
Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers:
????? ??? ??? ?. ? ???? ??????? ??????? ??????????? ??? ????? ??? ???? ????: https://t.co/qcTkrTU2Oi pic.twitter.com/TKzFE8d60m
— BCTGM International (@BCTGM) December 5, 2020Boilermakers:
As Christmas approaches, #Boilermakers from @146Lodge are still getting Scrooged by #CESSCO. Here's the latest: https://t.co/pGIpxzedzu
Help us share https://t.co/eDL53Lxbb7 and add your name to #StandWith146. #BoilermakersUnion #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/pGzxbEW4yp
Bricklayers:
President-elect Biden needs a Congress that he can work with to help enact pro-labor legislation. Sign up to make calls for Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock tomorrow from 6-8pm. https://t.co/AO6B9ELoOs
— Bricklayers Union (@IUBAC) December 10, 2020California School Employees Association:
CSEA's members know the importance of providing young children a consistent learning environment staffed with professionals who can identify the unique learning needs of each student. That is why we support #AB22 to fund TK for all of CA's 4 year olds.https://t.co/WfL2UHafIQ https://t.co/c05r8VPWNx
— CSEA (@CSEA_Now) December 8, 2020Coalition of Labor Union Women:
NEW DATE! Friday, 12/11 @ 5 to 7 PM ET & 8 to 10 PM ET! @CLUWNational will host a SNAPPY HOUR phone banking event to GOTV in Georgia! Sign up for a shift and encourage other union women to join! RSVP here: https://t.co/RvpIdgS5HQ pic.twitter.com/N8a8j9EIUZ
— CLUW National (@CLUWNational) December 7, 2020Communications Workers of America:
Stand with Maximus workers fighting for a better future!
Send a letter to Maximus: https://t.co/1RrdomxJJJ#1u pic.twitter.com/M4kpC1IUqv
Department for Professional Employees:
Solidarity with @SavetheMetIAOne! Shame on @MetOpera for locking out these union professionals during a pandemic! #SaveTheMet https://t.co/8MKTxfBrLe
— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) December 9, 2020Electrical Workers:
Members of Chicago #IBEW Local 134 are helping Illinois firefighters understand some of the hidden challenges presented by rooftop and utility-grade solar installations. https://t.co/gYD9dkHLQN
— IBEW (@IBEW) December 9, 2020Fire Fighters:
Mission, TX Local 3609 Proud to Help Feed the Hungryhttps://t.co/tsuBuO5vMi
— IAFF (@IAFFNewsDesk) December 10, 2020Heat and Frost Insulators:
As a mechanical insulator, your work will range from multi-million-dollar projects to regular maintenance. With training from an apprenticeship program, you will have the skills necessary to take on any project. Learn more here: https://t.co/DxgG8GRq9S
— Insulators Union ? (@InsulatorsUnion) December 10, 2020International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers:
We stand with these workers!https://t.co/s2Dqq2RXdk
— IFPTE (@IFPTE) December 3, 2020Ironworkers:
A career at Iron Workers Local 512 was the unexpected right fit for this Millennial college graduate. #apprenticeshipworks #apprenticeship https://t.co/9BDgVnNyRP
— Ironworkers. (@TheIronworkers) December 9, 2020Jobs With Justice:
This 1% includes US Senators @KLoeffler + @Perduesenate — they got even richer during the pandemic by using their secret covid briefings to inform their own stock portfolios, making MILLIONS in the process ?
They literally got richer while GA got sickerhttps://t.co/fzDhTMW6DZ
Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:
In Georgia, early vote starts on December 14! Make a plan to vote early. Your vote will have a critical impact on the policies that are passed in the next four years! ✊?
Find my early voting location: https://t.co/EYrZtDjnKi#LatinoLaborVota #VoteReady pic.twitter.com/a1FRnPfzyD
Machinists:
May the festival of lights bring you blessings. Happy #Hanukkah! pic.twitter.com/M7iJLd0mhH
— Machinists Union ✈️?? (@MachinistsUnion) December 10, 2020Metal Trades Department:
It is with a heavy heart that we relay the passing of retired MTD General Rep. James Seidl. RIP brother, God bless. https://t.co/pmecrw2bFS pic.twitter.com/UMP3zsj8nm
— Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) December 6, 2020Mine Workers:
“Thousands of #UMWA members are unemployed right now, both in the coal industry and in other industries. ... Our members did nothing wrong, yet they and their families are hurting." UMWA International President @CecilRoberts https://t.co/FEioGHewaN
— United Mine Workers (@MineWorkers) December 7, 2020Musical Artists:
AGMA received notification today that the Metropolitan Opera has locked out the stagehands of Local One, @IATSE. AGMA stands in solidarity with Local One. FULL STATEMENT: https://t.co/JJMLwgWwfy pic.twitter.com/wF67bOWm7I
— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) December 7, 2020National Air Traffic Controllers Association:
Every week on the Ali on the Run Show podcast, Ali Feller talks with inspiring people, like NATCA Denver/Centennial ATCT (APA) member and National Legislative Committee Northwest Mountain Region Representative Jenny Benjamin. https://t.co/2KFLqAS1UY
— NATCA (@NATCA) December 9, 2020National Association of Letter Carriers:
Thank you for your dedicated service, Arcola Hall, and congratulations on your retirement! Arcola has retired after 33 years with the Postal Service. She’s a member of NALC’s New York City Branch 36. #PostalProud #1u pic.twitter.com/KCrqwypaVk
— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) December 9, 2020National Day Laborer Organizing Network:
Necessary reminder.
WE DON’T BELIEVE SOME MUST SUFFER FOR OTHERS TO ADVANCE. WE ARE IN THIS TOGETHER.#MigrantJusticePlatform https://t.co/IVjukbN4o4
National Domestic Workers Alliance:
As the Georgia January 5th runoff election approaches, take it from NDWA We Dream in Black members — voting is a key way to make a difference in our lives and communities. Make sure you have a plan to vote. https://t.co/c2aknwv1rs pic.twitter.com/EgAUUerNFn
— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) December 9, 2020National Federation of Federal Employees:
It is with heavy hearts that NFFE mourns the passing of five of our members who fell victim to the very pandemic they were helping to combat as frontline personnel. #COVID https://t.co/svWHwUyA8D
— NFFE (@NFFE_Union) December 9, 2020National Nurses United:
Employers have taken advantage of every opportunity presented during the #Covid19 crisis to maximize profits.
NNU's new white paper "Deadly Shame," offers concrete solutions to protect patients and win equity for nurses. #ProtectNurses
? https://t.co/YSZKaULAMV pic.twitter.com/Lfvrda9ZZZ
National Taxi Workers Alliance:
Check out these beautiful cabbies driving through Delaware on the way to DC to demand COVID relief for the working class not the billionaires! pic.twitter.com/F25DRg1Ivh
— NY Taxi Workers (@NYTWA) December 10, 2020NFL Players Association:
Adversity breeds resilience. Congratulations to @DeMarcusWare + his company @driventowin which is now an NFLPA licensee! https://t.co/vqP1V2AdFZ
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) December 10, 2020North America's Building Trades Unions:
#DYK: You can earn a scholarship worth over $7,000 from NABTU’s Governing Board of Presidents by enrolling in @RowanUniversity’s BA in Construction Management degree completion program ??
Visit https://t.co/lB6Y51MYb2 to learn more today! pic.twitter.com/HYdbmCP4oy
Painters and Allied Trades:
Every day our members are on the ground in Georgia reaching out to voters, fighting for a pro worker senate, and fighting to get the PRO Act passed! pic.twitter.com/2IqOKQzCU6
— IUPATDC77 (@GOIUPATDC77) December 10, 2020Plasterers and Cement Masons:
The #OPCMIA 12th Annual Patrick D. Finley Scholarship Fund application is now available on our website! Applications must be returned no later than April 1, 2021. Winners will be notified in July 2021 and announced in the Summer JOURNAL. https://t.co/1MxmaTfn4n pic.twitter.com/5fMUwgy75s
— OPCMIA International (@opcmiaintl) December 7, 2020Professional Aviation Safety Specialists:
PASS remembers lives lost & valor displayed. President Roosevelt declared the following day: "No matter how long it may take us to overcome this premeditated invasion, the American people in their righteous might will win through to absolute victory." And we did. #PearlHarborDay https://t.co/RX2EPguk03
— PASS (@PASSNational) December 7, 2020Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union-UFCW:
If you plan to shop in-person this holiday season, respect retail workers!
?️wear a mask
?️keep 6 ft of distance from others
?️hand sanitize before AND after shopping
?️treat workers with dignity and respect! #StopTheSpread #ThankEssentialWorkers https://t.co/pFk3XCNati
Roofers and Waterproofers:
If you’re working outside in the cold, remember to dress in layers to keep warm and dry! Find more tips at: https://t.co/cGvnA1JUbd #roofersafety365 pic.twitter.com/hyCUIE2diR
— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) November 30, 2020SAG-AFTRA:
Let's extend a warm SAG-AFTRA welcome to #contentcreators from @TheCurrent & @ClassicalMPR who voted to recognize SAG-AFTRA as their union in a landslide election @MPRMusicUnions https://t.co/XzTvEsIr6W
— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) December 10, 2020Seafarers:
ENTIRE AMERICAN MARITIME INDUSTRY HONORED FOR ‘DELIVERING THE GOODS’ THROUGHOUT VIRUS https://t.co/b3jX7Zd6hg
— Seafarers Union (@SeafarersUnion) December 10, 2020Solidarity Center:
42 #journalists were killed in 2020, part of a global trend that has seen 2,658 journalists killed in the past 30 years, per new @IFJGlobal report. https://t.co/ed0GeUVZbs
— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) December 10, 2020The NewsGuild-CWA:
Austin journalists are joining the Texas organizing wave! “No matter what happens next, we will continue to advocate for the readers we serve. But moving forward as the Austin NewsGuild, we are also choosing to advocate for ourselves.” @AustinNewsGuild https://t.co/pg1jwHC7fJ https://t.co/tg8COYxUyF
— NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) December 9, 2020Theatrical Stage Employees:
Call us crazy, but maybe we shouldn’t give ultra powerful mega-corporations a license to kill workers in the form of blanket liability protection.
In America, it’s the employer’s responsibility to provide access to a safe workplace. Period.
Transport Workers Union:
The TWU is proud to endorse the AV tenets put forth by @SafeRoadsNow. We remain fully committed to ensuring that advancements in AVs are implemented in a way that prioritizes the workers who actually use, operate, and maintain these vehicles. https://t.co/co3D6zjoFL
— TWU (@transportworker) November 30, 2020Transportation Trades Department:
Yesterday, with his wife and daughter by his side, TTD president Larry Willis, 53, succumbed to injuries sustained on November 22 in a tragic biking accident. TTD Secretary-Treasurer Greg Regan issues this statement of mourning and remembrance: https://t.co/lzG1psyl5D
— Transp. Trades Dept. (@TTDAFLCIO) November 30, 2020UAW:
We need to be using every tool available to us save millions of jobs and help American workers, including extending unemployment benefits. https://t.co/kXn6LvkH9l
— UAW (@UAW) December 9, 2020Union Label and Service Trades Department:
"President-elect Joe Biden's new administration gives the Democratic Party the opportunity to reprioritize working families at the center of our legislative agenda." https://t.co/LTHIYr7ZR3
— Union Label Dept. (@ULSTD_AFLCIO) November 30, 2020Union Veterans Council:
Why is the #NDAA important? Well, it pays our troops. And specifies our defense budget. And clarifies defense policies for the coming year.
Unsurprisingly, Trump doesn’t care about any of that. Another low bar Trump can’t clear. #Veterans
UNITE HERE:
Hotel workers have suffered a lot this year, and their union, the Georgia Hospitality Workers’ Union, are going door-to-door to make sure people vote. https://t.co/QzYSDTUbQ6
— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) December 10, 2020United Food and Commercial Workers:
BIG WIN: @UFCWLocal1776 helped secure #PaidLeave for thousands of hardworking families in #Pittsburgh!
With a strong coalition of community groups, UFCW members helped pass a new policy that ensures workers with #COVID19 get the paid leave they need. #1uhttps://t.co/UWT66CSSEE
United Steelworkers:
Our own Tom Conway discusses COVID-19 relief package on the Leslie Marshall Show, give it a listen, here ---> https://t.co/nIcOIf6WS5 #USWWorks
— United Steelworkers (@steelworkers) December 8, 2020United Students Against Sweatshops:
With universities putting profit over student and worker lives, USASers are leading the fight against unsafe campus reopening policies and worker layoffs amidst the pandemic. We need your support this #GivingTuesday to continue building the movement! https://t.co/MqANZJMddu pic.twitter.com/b8T0iKB6ap
— USAS (@USAS) December 1, 2020Utility Workers:
Wherever there’s a need, utility workers are on the scene!
Sign our petition NOW to show your support for utility workers, who deserve to be recognized as first responders. ✊✊✊https://t.co/OMnozIfs3L pic.twitter.com/fjiGBIsSFN
Working America:
"Shamefully, nearly 10% of U.S. companies have used the crisis to cut or suspend the 401(k) match...What’s their excuse? U.S. corporate profits hit a record in the third quarter, thanks to the federal stimulus bonanza underwritten by you and me." https://t.co/P8g93lQ60N
— Working America (@WorkingAmerica) December 7, 2020Writers Guild of America, East:
.@CPJ_union's 1st contract:
> Minimum $58,000 for assistants
> 3.25% raise retroactive to Jan 1, 2020
> Salary increases of 2.25% in 2021, 2.5% in 2022 and 2.5% in 2023
> Health, vision, dental & life insurance
> 20 weeks severance
> Remote work policyhttps://t.co/kE2BZViq0V
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: ATU Calls on Governors to Prioritize Front-Line Transit Workers in Vaccine Distribution
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.
With hundreds of transit workers killed, including 96 ATU members, from COVID-19, the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) has called on governors across the United States to prioritize front-line transit workers in the first rounds of COVID-19 vaccine distributions. ATU International President John Costa wrote a letter to every governor to inform them of the request and offer logistical support in vaccine distribution. “The recent promising news of multiple quality vaccines for the coronavirus has lifted the spirits of all Americans, including the hundreds of thousands of transportation workers who have been on the front lines working through this very dark period in our nation’s history,” Costa wrote in the letter to governors. “On behalf of the ATU, the labor organization representing the majority of these brave workers, we urge you to provide early vaccine access and availability for our members in the transit and school bus industries.”
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 12/10/2020 - 09:21Tags: COVID-19, Community Service
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: USW Members Help Energy Department Reach Cleanup Milestones
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.
United Steelworkers (USW) members at the cleanup sites of the former Paducah Gaseous Diffusion Plant in Paducah, Kentucky, and Portsmouth Gaseous Diffusion Plant in Piketon, Ohio, helped the Department of Energy (DOE) reach two cleanup milestones this fall. The atomic workers’ conversion project reached a turning point last month when the Paducah site shipped the first load of depleted uranium oxide cylinders onto a specialized rail car bound for a federal waste facility in Andrews, Texas. The Piketon plant is in the planning stages of shipping its depleted uranium oxide to the Texas waste facility. Tom Lamerson, a USW Local 1-689 division 2 committee person at the Piketon plant, said, “You feel you’re doing a huge service to the community, the environment and the country. We are getting rid of it safely and efficiently.” In Paducah, the DOE also marked 25 years of successful operations in removing groundwater contaminants.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 12/09/2020 - 09:51Tags: COVID-19, Community Service
Economy Gains 245,000 Jobs in November; Unemployment Declines to 6.7%
The U.S. economy gained 245,000 jobs in November, and the unemployment rate declined to 6.7%, according to figures released Friday morning by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The improvements reflect the continued resumption of economic activity that previously was curtailed because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
In response to the November job numbers, AFL-CIO Chief Economist William Spriggs tweeted:
@BLS_gov reports payroll increased 245,000 in November while the unemployment rate edged down to 6.7% but that was because the labor force participation rate fell, so the share of people employed also edged down by 0.1% Big problem, rising share of long term unemployed. @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/BW0kzRCSbJ
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) December 4, 2020The Black unemployment rate in November was 10.3% (still above the national unemployment rate for high school dropouts of 9.0%). A key reason the Black/white unemployment rate ratio stabilizes at around 2:1 is because of labor force participation rates changes. @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/8lQ0U7iaQf
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) December 4, 2020This string is important to get the full picture of the depth of the current labor market crisis. Tragically, our economy and the plight of American workers has become partisan. Rallying our economic forces to serve American workers in need is not viewed as a common objective.
? https://t.co/6DFbQmW1xj
The failure to support state and local governments, straining from collapsed revenue and rising demands for services, will be a mark on Trump and the Republican senate as they leave office. A failure to fight even a "good war" to protect Americans from unprecedented death levels https://t.co/xVU5wZACW1
— William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) December 4, 2020Last month's biggest job gains were in transportation and warehousing (145,000), professional and business services (60,000), health care (46,000), leisure and hospitality (31,000), construction (27,000), manufacturing (27,000), financial activities (15,000) and wholesale trade (10,000). Government employment (-99,000) and retail trade (-35,000) lost jobs over the month. Employment in other major industries, including mining, information and other services, showed little change in November.
In November, the unemployment rates declined for adult women (6.1%). The jobless rates for the other major worker groups showed little or no change for the month: teenagers (14%), Black Americans (10.3%), Hispanics (8.4%), adult men (6.7%), Asians (6.7%) and White Americans (5.9%).
The number of long-term unemployed workers (those jobless for 27 weeks or more) rose in November and accounted for 36.9% of the total unemployed.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 12/04/2020 - 12:40On the Anniversary of the AFL-CIO Merger, Listen to How It All Began
On this day 65 years ago, the American Federation of Labor and the Congress of Industrial Organizations, the country’s two leading labor federations, joined together to consolidate working people’s goals and activism in pursuit of a better tomorrow. The AFL-CIO’s first president, George Meany, spoke to the new federation’s first convention in New York on Dec. 5, 1955.
As we look forward to another year of fighting on behalf of the hopes and aspirations of working people, let’s take some time to look back at how it began and keep in mind the many who came before us, those who built the foundation upon which we now stand.
Courtesy of the University of Maryland, we can listen to Meany’s speech at that first convention, presented in two parts:
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 12/04/2020 - 10:49Service + Solidarity Spotlight: IAFF Members Lead Campaign for Referendum to Hire Six New Firefighters
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 Fire Fighters (IAFF) Local 3432 in the small city of Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, led a campaign last month for a local referendum to increase the property tax levy to fund the hiring of six new firefighters. “Having six new firefighters/paramedics will enable us to better serve the community without exhausting our members with excessive amounts of overtime,” said Local 3432 President Tony Thomas. “The IAFF was with us every step of the way. From help with campaign strategy and messaging to the development of yard signs, mailers and ads, the international provided invaluable service and support.” Voters passed the referendum 66% to 34%.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 12/04/2020 - 10:34Tags: COVID-19, Community Service
Strengthening Collective Bargaining Rights: In the States Roundup
It's time once again to take a look at the ways working people are making progress in the states. Click on any of the links to follow the state federations on Twitter.
Alaska AFL-CIO:
Vic Fischer on what needs to happen now that the 2020 Election is over:
"The next step? Finish the process of recalling Gov. Dunleavy and his divisive agenda."@recalldunleavy#recalldunleavy#akleg#akgovhttps://t.co/4e0WuV76xW
Arizona AFL-CIO:
The Arizona AFL-CIO is preparing to organize constituency groups and would like to have your responses to the following survey: https://t.co/0vIZb3qWN6
— Arizona AFL-CIO // #VotersDecided (@ArizonaAFLCIO) November 20, 2020California Labor Federation:
Almost one year ago, Google fired its workers for organizing. Today the NLRB declared Google violated US labor laws by spying and retaliating against workers who were organizing protests.
This is huge. The labor movement stands with you @GoogleWalkout! #Solidarity https://t.co/x9vYy4eq42
Colorado AFL-CIO:
"In truth, we all have a responsibility to do our part to protect others during this pandemic. Corporations are not excluded from this truth." #coleg #nofreepasses https://t.co/diCzUwcN59
— Colorado AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOCO) November 30, 2020Connecticut AFL-CIO:
#PaidLeave is coming to Connecticut! Paid family & medical leave provides workers paid time off when they need to care for themselves or a loved one, or welcome a new child without risking their paycheck. @PaidLeaveforCT https://t.co/FWSGHA6m0q
— Connecticut AFL-CIO // #VotersDecided (@ConnAFLCIO) December 1, 2020Florida AFL-CIO:
“This is already a crisis situation that will only get worse, especially after December when the CDC protections expire,” said Tom DiFiore of Bay Area Legal Services,"https://t.co/WrjQcnwyYL
— Florida AFL-CIO (@FLAFLCIO) November 30, 2020Georgia AFL-CIO:
"We have the power to strengthen collective bargaining rights and ensure working people can set the terms of their employment."
Thank you @ossoff and @GaryPeters for speaking on these important issues and hosting labor leaders and members on today's Labor Town Hall. pic.twitter.com/NhS4K0VZCx
Indiana State AFL-CIO:
Biden’s team has promised to prioritize policies aimed at women and minority workers especially devastated by the pandemic.https://t.co/RJEvPtY7eS
— Indiana AFL-CIO (@INAFLCIO) December 2, 2020Iowa Federation of Labor:
BluSky workers in Cedar Rapids win victory against wage theft https://t.co/1mZQ2ecLqI
— Iowa AFL-CIO (@IowaAFLCIO) November 30, 2020Maine AFL-CIO:
Great piece in @MainerNewsCoop about brewery unions! https://t.co/YpNBo78Chh
— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) November 30, 2020Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
We are also proud to stand with our brothers and sisters at UFCW 1445 going into negotiations with @SaintVincentMA. pic.twitter.com/h7QRDnm0HT
— Massachusetts AFL-CIO // #VotersDecided (@massaflcio) December 1, 2020Michigan AFL-CIO:
On the International Day for the Elimination of #ViolenceagainstWomen, the @ituc is calling on governments to commit to a world of work free from violence and harassment. #1u pic.twitter.com/gV9vpFEmmw
— Michigan AFL-CIO ? (@MIAFLCIO) November 25, 2020Minnesota AFL-CIO:
We can all do our part to slow the spread of COVID-19. Encourage your union siblings, coworkers, friends, family, and neighbors to download COVIDaware MN today: https://t.co/WPFHFeVwo8. #1u #StaySafeMN pic.twitter.com/WC9YHHP887
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) November 23, 2020Missouri AFL-CIO:
"Right-to-Work", Paycheck Deception, and cuts to unemployment have been pre-filed.
Once again the Missouri Legislature is trying to undermine the will of the people and take money from our paycheck and CUT unemployment benefits during the middle of a global pandemic. pic.twitter.com/8yDtztBIcl
Montana AFL-CIO:
Let's work together to keep our families safe and healthy #maskupmt #mtpol https://t.co/X6ypqUAXMi
— Montana AFL-CIO (@MTaflcio) November 25, 2020Nebraska AFL-CIO:
#HEROESAct https://t.co/XMlZLWvPGl
— NE State AFL-CIO (@NEAFLCIO) November 23, 2020Nevada State AFL-CIO:
Front line workers deserve our appreciation. Thank you for working through Thanksgiving, and many other holidays, during such trying and troubling times. Glad to see President-elect @JoeBiden showing thanks to the #FrontLineHeroes, too! #MaskUpNV #UnionStrong https://t.co/ScOtEQI8q6
— Nevada State AFL-CIO (@NVAFLCIO) November 27, 2020New York State AFL-CIO:
New York State AFL-CIO supports NYSNA nurses at Albany Medical Center in their fight for a fair contract https://t.co/Hx0gA3DUSy
— NYS AFL-CIO // #VotersDecided (@NYSAFLCIO) December 1, 2020North Carolina State AFL-CIO:
What gets me out of bed in the morning is… by Dave C. on PBS American Portrait #AmericanPortraitPBS https://t.co/9MHRbLBl1R @DaveCoker_PFFG @IAFFNewsDesk #1u
— NC AFL-CIO // #VotersDecided (@NCStateAFLCIO) November 20, 2020Ohio AFL-CIO:
Working people across the country should never forget you were the first state Democratic Chair to oppose TPP, putting people over corporations. We know you believe in your heart our economy is unfair to working families, and you fought day and night to try to #UnrigTheEconomy https://t.co/F7M7KMCjxs
— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) December 1, 2020Oklahoma State AFL-CIO:
It is with great sadness to inform you Myrna Burman, former OK AFL-CIO Political Director and OPEIU #381 Union Member, has passed away.
A Memorial Service will be held:
Thurs – Nov 19 @ 11am
Join via Zoom: https://t.co/GuF6aOSSfh
ID: 853 9673 7630
Code: 0CRhNX
Oregon AFL-CIO:
Oregon AFL-CIO President @graham_oregon on @kgw explaining why workplace protection is critical to slowing the spread of COVID-19:https://t.co/p1a7OfrO5A #ORpol #ORleg
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) December 2, 2020Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:
— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) November 25, 2020Rhode Island AFL-CIO:
Read Rhode Island Committee on Occupational Safety and Health (RICOSH) Winter's Newsletter. #1U #Safety #SafetyFirst pic.twitter.com/EVfUv7d4b2
— Rhode Island AFL-CIO (@riaflcio) December 1, 2020Tennessee AFL-CIO Labor Council:
Electing @ossoff and @ReverendWarnock to the US Senate means stronger unions, good paying jobs and healthier businesses. Georgia, let’s make that happen. #1u pic.twitter.com/VQnrwFhZTA
— Tennessee AFL-CIO // #VotersDecided (@tnaflcio) December 2, 2020Texas AFL-CIO:
Congrats. Welcome to the union family! #1u #ApprenticeshipWeek https://t.co/BPTMkdFkrg
— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) November 13, 2020Virginia AFL-CIO:
Wishing our leading lady of labor in Virginia a very happy birthday today! Wish Virginia AFL-CIO President Doris Crouse-Mays a happy birthday in the comments below! pic.twitter.com/thmSHlx06z
— Virginia AFL-CIO (@Virginia_AFLCIO) November 18, 2020Washington State Labor Council:
This is a fun and challenging opportunity to learn more about issues important to working families, our labor movement, public policy and the legislative process. Apply now! #1u #waleg https://t.co/kYuVFmL9Ry
— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) November 16, 2020Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
Volunteer mask sewers continue to help provide virus protection to front line workers who are without. We are workers protecting workers. https://t.co/frvizq0ort pic.twitter.com/82DuTaP3Iu
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) December 1, 2020 Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 12/03/2020 - 13:52Service + Solidarity Spotlight: Rebuilding the Energy Industry: Wyoming AFL-CIO Comes Out in Support of Energy Rebound Program
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 Wyoming State AFL-CIO and its 18,000 union members are applauding Gov. Mark Gordon for investing money from the CARES Act into the state’s new “Energy Rebound Program” to keep energy workers on the job throughout the pandemic. The $15 million state initiative will save jobs in the struggling oil and gas sector. In a recent column for SweetwaterNOW, state federation Executive Secretary Tammy Johnson (USW) emphasized the importance of using the funding to keep in-state workers employed. “Done right, this cash will put hundreds of oil and gas workers back to work in the state. Yet this effort will miss its mark, if these dollars are not specifically earmarked to provide jobs to Wyoming workers,” she wrote.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 12/03/2020 - 10:07Tags: Community Service, COVID-19
Local Union President Elected to the New York State Senate
Labor stalwart John Mannion has been officially elected to the New York state senate to represent a district in the Syracuse suburbs. Mannion is the president of a local New York State United Teachers (NYSUT/AFT-NEA) union and he received steadfast support in his campaign from the Central New York Area Labor Federation and its affiliates.
A popular high school teacher in his district, he leveraged his ties with his community and his regional labor movement to secure the win. “This year we have faced unimaginable challenges—an uncontrolled pandemic, the economic uncertainty that followed and a federal government that has failed to respond….As I head to Albany next session, I hope that my work there will help restore our faith in our elected leaders and government,” Mannion wrote in an email to supporters. His election to the state senate in a close race means that pro-labor senators will hold a 43–20 supermajority in the upper house for the first time ever.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 12/02/2020 - 10:59Service + Solidarity Spotlight: College Students Campaign in Runoff Election with Support from Georgia AFL-CIO
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.
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell’s reign of power over the U.S. Senate may be coming to an end soon if voters in Georgia manage to flip two seats in runoff elections early in the new year. Working people are campaigning in support of pro-labor candidates Jon Ossoff and the Rev. Raphael Warnock. Students at Clark Atlanta University, with support from the HBCU Green Fund and the Georgia State AFL-CIO, led voter registration drives this weekend targeted at registering new voters. Students and volunteers also participated in door-to-door literature drops in Clayton County to remind voters about the runoff election on Jan. 5 and that early voting starts on Dec. 14.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 12/02/2020 - 09:53Tags: COVID-19, Community Service
Amtrak to Give Horn Salute to Honor Legacy of TTD President Larry Willis
On Wednesday, Dec. 2, Amtrak will honor the legacy of Transportation Trades Department (TTD) President Larry Willis with a horn salute. Larry died Sunday from injuries he sustained in a cycling accident near Great Falls Park in Maryland. He was 53.
“Larry was a true champion of the nation’s transportation network and the workers who make it possible,” said Amtrak CEO William Flynn. “Larry was a strong advocate for Amtrak and believed in the need for a robust, modern, well-funded national passenger rail network for the nation. Our thoughts are with Larry’s family, his TTD and labor colleagues, and all of those in the transportation industry that were touched by Larry’s deep passion and fierce advocacy for transportation workers during this difficult time.”
Amtrak engineers across the country will simultaneously blow one long whistle at noon ET on Wednesday, Dec. 2, to honor Larry’s life work in support of passenger rail and his deep passion and fierce advocacy for transportation workers.
“The collective hearts of America’s labor movement, particularly transportation unions, are broken by the tragic death of our brother. Larry brought a love of workers and a deep understanding of transportation issues to his leadership of TTD,” AFL-CIO President RIchard Trumka said. “He paid incredible attention to detail, always looking for opportunities to win more power and prosperity for the working people who move America.”
“For more than 20 years, Larry dedicated his life to the labor movement, working tirelessly to enhance the rights and livelihoods of those who work on the front lines of our transportation system,” TTD Secretary-Treasurer Greg Regan said. “His mastery of complex legal and regulatory issues set the foundation for TTD’s policy leadership, and raised the bar for demanding and enforcing worker protections throughout our nation’s transportation system.”
Willis leaves behind his wife, Amy, and daughter, Samantha.
“Larry’s passing is a reminder that we cannot take a single day for granted, and the AFL-CIO will honor his memory by fighting for the issues he championed and the people he loved,” said Trumka. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Larry’s wife and daughter, along with the entire TTD family, during this difficult time.”
Dennis Loney Tue, 12/01/2020 - 14:05Working People Plan Diverse Activities for Thanksgiving
For Thanksgiving weekend, many working families will take time off to share a meal, either virtually or in person. Many others have to work over the weekend. And still others will be helping out their friends and neighbors during these tough times. Here is a sampling of the activities various unions will be participating in for Thanksgiving:
- Maine: The 18th annual Solidarity Harvest, co-sponsored by the Eastern, Southern and Western Maine labor councils, is made possible by the efforts of more than 50 unions, faith groups and other organizations. This year, the project is expected to provide 1,400 Thanksgiving meals to union and community members who are experiencing hard times.
- Indianapolis: The annual Circle of Lights event, presented by Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 481, this year will be a special made-for-TV-only affair, featuring Santa, musical acts from the Tom Wood Talent Search and the lighting up of Monument Circle to kick off the holiday season.
- Kansas: Machinists District Lodge 70, in association with the Wichita/Hutchinson Labor Federation, has launched its Salvation Army Angel Tree program to collect gifts for children in the community.
- San Diego, California: The San Diego and Imperial Counties Labor Council, in association with the San Diego Food Bank, distributed 500 turkeys and 600 meal kits to local families. The labor council also began collecting for its annual toy drive, which continues through Dec. 17.
- Washington: The Washington State Labor Council is calling on members and supporters to stay home, stay safe and give to union-organized charitable efforts, including the Foundation for Working Families, the Southwest Washington Central Labor Council’s Presents from Partners and the Teamsters (IBT) Local 117 Toy Drive.
- Chicago: The Chicago Federation of Labor teamed up with the Chicago Regional Council of Carpenters, IBEW Local 134 and McCormick Place to distribute holiday meals to more than 2,000 union members and their families. Most of the meals were given to workers at McCormick Place, which has been shut down since March.
- Atlantic City, New Jersey: Thousands of laid-off workers were assisted through Operation Feed Atlantic City’s Special Holiday Food Distribution. The New Jersey State AFL-CIO and its affiliated unions, the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority and the Community FoodBank of New Jersey delivered turkey dinners, homemade treats and other groceries to ease the food insecurity that has gripped this resort region throughout the pandemic.
- Oklahoma: The Central Oklahoma Labor Federation is once again partnering with the emergency assistance group Upward Transitions to distribute holiday baskets for union members and their families. Supplies such as canned food, hot chocolate mix and paper goods are needed this year more than ever.
- Texas: Local unions, including AFGE Local 1920 and AFGE District 10 worked with Star Group—Veterans Helping Veterans to give away more than 500 turkeys and bags of fixings to local families.
- Air Line Pilots: Members of the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) across the country are participating in various holiday activities, including Pilots for Kids, which helps hospitalized children.
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: UFCW Demands Action in Face of Shocking COVID-19 Failures
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 Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Tyson Foods after at least five meatpackers died and more than 1,000 others were infected with coronavirus at the company’s plant in Waterloo, Iowa. The lawsuit alleges that employees were ordered to report to work even if they were sick. Supervisors allegedly bet money on how many workers would be infected.
UFCW International President Marc Perrone demanded that action be taken: “These stunning safety failures make clear that the Trump administration and Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds care more about industry profits than protecting America’s front-line workers. Protecting our country’s meatpacking workers is essential to keeping our food supply secure. We are continuing to call on elected leaders to implement an enforceable national safety standard, increased access to PPE and COVID-19 testing, and rigorous proactive inspections. Without immediate action, deadly outbreaks like this will quickly spread across the Midwest and cause COVID-19 cases to spike even higher. Our country’s meatpacking workers, and the millions of American they serve, deserve and expect better from those sworn to protect us.”
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 11/25/2020 - 10:14Tags: COVID-19, Community Service
Breakthrough for Organized Labor and Clean Energy
Her goal was to go beyond good intentions and rhetoric. So Liz Shuler, as secretary-treasurer of the AFL-CIO, the second-highest position in the labor movement and, as it happens, highest-ranking woman in the federation’s history, went to Scandinavia in 2019. She leveraged AFL-CIO’s relationships with their sister union federations to talk directly with top management at some of the largest renewable energy companies in the world.
The big idea was to make an example of offshore wind—a template for how union labor will build the clean energy future.
Over the next year, she worked to bring leading renewable energy project developers from Norway and Denmark to the table with building trades unions. She connected state labor federations along the East Coast of the U.S. in a working group on offshore wind. She quietly talked with elected leaders. This is her forte. She comes from a building trades union; she’s adept at building bridges. And through months of crises, amid a pandemic, she kept the conversation alive.
But Shuler isn’t one for self-promotion. She lets results speak for themselves.
Here they are: a game-changing partnership that sets the standard for the entire offshore wind industry. And with it, an example for solar and other emerging technologies.
It’s based on a model the Rhode Island Building & Construction Trades Council pioneered for the Block Island Wind Farm project—the first offshore wind project in the U.S. Now, Danish renewable energy group Ørsted and North America’s Building Trade Unions (NABTU) have a deal to use union labor to build multiple offshore wind projects up and down the East Coast.
Pick your adjective. Breakthrough. Landmark. The Danish fantastiske. However you want to say it, this is a big deal. It’s a framework for an emerging, high-growth industry. It involves a company ranked most sustainable in the world, and as NABTU President Sean McGarvey put it, “Our highly trained men and women professionals have the best craft skills in the world.” Now they’ll have a path to offshore wind work up and down the Atlantic coast.
Development of 15 active commercial leases in the U.S. will support $25 billion in annual economic output and about 83,000 jobs in the next decade. This, and 30 gigawatts of offshore wind capacity. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 1 gigawatt can power about 110 million LED bulbs. Multiply that by 30, and you’ve got a lot of power.
Plus proof of concept. Thinking of adapting to climate change as a matter of either-or when it comes to jobs is a false choice. President-elect Joe Biden made that argument when announcing his climate policy: “When I think about climate change, the word I think of is ‘jobs.’” And if you’re wondering what kind of jobs, in Biden’s 15-page plan, the word union appears 32 times.
The announcement is progress on two fronts: clean energy for a sustainable future and jobs for economic recovery. With the future uncertain for sectors like hospitality, where workers are disproportionately women of color, an equitable economic recovery depends on pathways to good-paying jobs in high-demand growth industries.
A little-known fact everyone should know: After the U.S. military, NABTU and its employer partners run the largest workforce training network in the country. And NABTU-registered apprenticeships are the gold standard for construction craft training. Offshore wind offers another accessible path to family-supporting construction careers.
There is more work ahead to bring low-road employers in the renewable sector up to union standards. But the agreement between Ørsted and NABTU shows results—the promise of good union jobs. NABTU crafted the agreement language, and throughout the process, their leadership brought credibility and consistency. Ultimately, the agreement is a hopeful paradigm in workforce-development and labor-management cooperation.
It was possible thanks, in part, to leaders building bridges with eyes on the horizon and a vision to move labor forward. As Shuler said, “This is the first big step toward the vision we share with President-elect Biden of a growing clean-energy economy powered by union jobs, and the AFL-CIO is pleased to be part of this growing energy market and looks forward to the future.”
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 11/24/2020 - 10:46Service + Solidarity Spotlight: Iowa Federation of Labor Joins Legal Fight Over State OSHA Protections
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 Iowa Federation of Labor joined the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Iowa and a number of other unions and advocacy groups in filing a federal complaint against the state’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) on Nov. 13, asserting that regulators failed to protect people from COVID-19 outbreaks during the pandemic.
President Charlie Wishman (AFT) of the Iowa Federation of Labor said his labor federation joined the suit because there seems to be a lack of concern for the health and safety of working Iowans.
“Iowa OSHA is supposed to protect workers, not corporations. Now with COVID-19, we’re seeing more of the same, but with a new and terrible twist,” Wishman said. “When Iowa workers are exposed to COVID-19, it doesn’t threaten just their health and the health of their co-workers. It also threatens the health of their families, their friends and everyone they come into contact with. Worker health is community health.”
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 11/23/2020 - 13:44Tags: COVID-19, Community Service
