The ‘Year of Labor’ in 2023 Was Just the Beginning

When Alicia Weaver, a guest room attendant at the MGM Grand Detroit, went on strike last year with UNITE HERE, she didn’t know how long she would be on the picket line. All she knew was she and her co-workers deserved more: Better wages, after 24 years on the job; decent health care, so she didn’t have to choose between a doctor’s visit and paying rent; a chance to grow professionally and have a future at the company—something that hit home for Alicia as she looked down the strike line and saw her own son, also an MGM Grand Detroit employee. After 47 days on the picket line in the Detroit winter—in rain and freezing temperatures—Alicia and her co-workers won historic raises, benefits, job security and opportunities to grow their careers. 

When people ask me why the labor movement just had its most dynamic and successful year in a generation, I tell them about workers like Alicia—people whose lives changed because they stood together with their co-workers. For all the talk about macro trends and economic factors, the driving force behind the “Year of Labor” was simple: Being in a union makes your life better.

We’re in a moment of profound uncertainty and disillusionment across this country. Americans are fed up with politicians, institutions and the status quo. Approval ratings for Congress and most major institutions have plummeted to well below 50%. The labor movement is the one exception. Polling shows 71% of Americans believe in unions—more than two-thirds of people in this country, the highest number in the past 60 years. Unions are where people seem to have increasingly placed their hopes, their dreams and their aspirations for a better future.

It’s not hard to see why. Look around at the wins workers have earned, together, and the real change it makes in their lives and their families’ futures: UAW, which won 25% pay raises for employees' new contracts with the Big 3 automakers. The Teamsters, who took on UPS and won historic safety protections and wage increases. The Writers Guild of America and SAG-AFTRA, who stood up to the Hollywood studios and won protections against artificial intelligence (AI) that provide security and peace of mind. Some 900,000 union members secured double-digit wage increases this year in their new contracts. That’s the power of solidarity.

People also look at the labor movement and see that it increasingly looks like them. We’re bringing together people of every background—white, Black, brown, Asian American and Pacific Islander, and Indigenous; young and old; white collar and blue collar—to take on the absurd economic inequality. We are working in common cause, and we are winning.

So, where do we go in 2024? The AFL-CIO (where I serve as president) represents 60 unions and 12.5 million workers across this country, and our goal is simple: To make sure every working person has a good job that pays a living wage. A job where they are treated with dignity and respect. A job where they are free to come together and organize with their co-workers when things aren’t right. For decades, whenever workers have tried to improve their lives in this country, they’ve run into roadblocks. Right now, we need to make sure every road leads to a union.

We’re doing that by organizing the new sectors of the economy. All over the South, billions of dollars from President Biden’s historic infrastructure packages are being invested in clean energy projects, many driven by companies like Blue Bird, an electric bus manufacturer, whose workers organized with the United Steelworkers (USW)—and we’ll do the same thing across the South and the whole country, setting a standard that every job created by these investments is a good, high-wage, union job.

This post originally appeared at The Messenger.

Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 01/12/2024 - 11:32

Ready to Fight: 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.

Faculty at Second City Poised to Go on Strike: "The Chicago Federation of Labor said the faculty, music directors, and facilitators at Second City voted to join the Association of International Comedy Educators in 2021. The union said Second City leadership walked away from the table in December after three years of bargaining."

IATSE President: Workers 'Ready to Fight' in Upcoming Contract Talks with Studios: "IATSE international president Matthew Loeb did not rule out a potential 2024 crew strike when several of his union’s contracts come due this year in an appearance on Tuesday. 'Nothing is off the table, and we’re not going to give up our strength and our ability because they [studios] think they sapped us and everybody’s bank account got sapped because they were unreasonable for months and months,' asserted the crew union leader of his organization’s upcoming basic agreement negotiations with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers, set to start in early March. 'My folks aren’t going to just settle.'"

Video Game Workers Need to Further Unionize in 2024: "2023 was great for gamers. An incredible amount of fantastic new video games were released, like Baldur’s Gate 3, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and far too many more to list. Many have called it the best year for video games in over a decade. However, as several media commentators have already pointed out, the year was also a terrible one for the people who make video games. Over 10,000 people were estimated to have been laid off in the video game industry over the past year, about 10 times the amount of layoffs in 2022."

Employees, Not ‘Independent Contractors’: Labor Department Cracks Down on Bosses’ Misclassification Abuse: "The AFL-CIO praised the new curbs on independent contractors when DOL issued its draft of this new rule this past October. 'By restoring commonsense rules to determine who is an employee, and making it harder for employers to intentionally misclassify their employees as independent contractors, DOL’s announcement will increase protections and expand benefits to so many working people who have been subjected to corporate work-arounds,' federation President Liz Shuler said."

Ascension Union Now More Than 1,000 Nurses Strong: "National Nurses United grew this week after 96% of nurses voted in 225 new members to the Ascension Seton nurses’ union. Those 225 join 825 already unionized nurses who have been negotiating a contract with Ascension since they unionized with 72% of nurses voting in favor in the fall of 2022. Crucially, the new members are residents and fellows, who were previously barred from joining."

Millions of Gig Workers Could Qualify as Employees Under New Biden Rule: "Millions of gig workers, janitors, home-care workers, construction workers and truckers could be considered employees rather than independent contractors under a final rule announced Tuesday by the Labor Department. The rule effectively expands the reach of federal labor laws that require employers to extend certain benefits and protections to workers classified as employees. Those include the right to the minimum wage, overtime pay, unemployment insurance and Social Security benefits—which employers are not required to provide to independent contractors. The rule will 'help create a level playing field for businesses, protect workers from being denied the right to fair pay and affirm the vital role true independent contractors play in our economy by allowing them to thrive,' acting labor secretary Julie Su told reporters on a call Monday."

New Jersey Labor Movement Has Record Number of Union Members Sworn into the Legislature: "Today is the beginning of the new legislative session and the New Jersey State Labor Movement made history. The 2024/2025 Legislature will have a total of nine union members serving.  They are State Senators Vin Gopal (IBEW Local 400), Paul Moriarty (SAG-AFTRA), Troy Singleton (UBC) and Latham Tiver (IUOE Local 825).  In the Assembly are Wayne DeAngelo (IBEW Local 269), Christian Barranco (IBEW Local 102), Kevin Egan (IBEW Local 456), William Sampson (ILA) and Anthony Verrelli (UBC)."

Workplace Fatalities Up 5.7% in 2022: "'Every workplace fatality represents a family member who will never return home after a shift. An empty chair at the dinner table that never again will be filled. A loss that ripples through entire communities,' AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler said, 'We cannot and will not accept these tragedies as inevitable. Workplace deaths are preventable, but unchecked employers blame workers and treat people as disposable.'"

Las Vegas Hospitality Worker Unions Set Feb. 2 Strike Deadline: "Unions representing hospitality workers in Las Vegas said on Monday they will ask their 7,700 members to go on a strike on Feb. 2, if they do not have a labor contract by then. The Culinary Workers and Bartenders Unions are engaged in contract negotiations with 21 casino resorts in Las Vegas. The unions warned that they might launch targeted strikes sooner at individual properties if contract negotiations break down ahead of the strike deadline."

Twin Cities Postal Workers Rally Over Reported Spike in Targeted Robberies, Assaults: "Letter carriers for the United States Postal Service say violent crimes—namely assaults and robberies—against them have been through the roof in recent years. Union leadership for the National Association of Letter Carriers at a rally on the steps of Minneapolis’ central post office on Sunday said U.S. Postal Inspection Service data shows there have been 2,000 attacks against letter carriers across the country since 2020."

NLRB Complaint Alleges Lucid Fired Employees for Union Effort: "A federal labor regulator has filed a complaint against electric vehicle maker Lucid, accusing the company of firing two employees who supported a United Auto Workers union organizing effort at the company. The complaint was filed Tuesday by a regional director of the National Labor Relations Board in Arizona, who investigated the claim about the firings early last year. It was disclosed by the agency late Thursday."

IBEW Local 98 and Building Trades Announce The Superhero Project as Charity Partner for 2024 All Star Labor Classic: "The Philadelphia Building and Construction Trades Council has set a fundraising goal of $200,000 for the 2024 All Star Labor Classic, which would be the largest charitable donation the Superhero Project has ever received. This year’s showcase of the region’s best high school basketball players will be played on Sunday, April 14th at Holy Family University in Northeast Philadelphia."

At Least Five States Are Considering Requiring Full Minimum Wages for Tip Earners This Year: "Five states are deciding this year whether to ditch the practice of paying workers who earn tips less than the minimum wage. And activists say they’re bringing that fight to at least as many others, framing it as a key cost-of-living issue in an election year. Ballot measures pending in Michigan, Arizona, Ohio and Massachusetts, and a bill being reintroduced in Connecticut would eliminate a longstanding two-tiered pay system for tip-earning hourly workers like restaurant servers and bartenders, who earn a lower 'subminimum' wage than their nontipped counterparts. Only seven states already pay a single minimum wage regardless of tips. While more than two dozen others have raised subminimum pay for tip earners above the federal $2.13-an-hour floor—a rate last increased in 1991—those workers still earn less in base pay than their states’ minimum wage."

Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 01/12/2024 - 08:22

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Washington Conservation Action Staff Celebrates First Union Contract

Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

Washington Conservation Action (WCA) and Evergreen Workers Union (EWU) finalized a two-year contract. The EWU members, represented by the Communications Workers of America (CWA) Local 7800, voted to organize in August 2021. WCA leadership voluntarily recognized the union and the agreement was ratified on Oct. 11, 2023.

“This is an exciting step forward, not only for us, but for Washington’s environmental, labor, and progressive movement as a whole. By coming together in solidarity, we are organized to fight for a more just, equitable, and sustainable future,” the EWU said. “We are glad to conclude the bargaining process and look forward to our contract advancing the organization’s commitment towards fairness, diversity, transparency, and a livable planet. The collective bargaining agreement is significant in its institution of policies that further promote justice, equity and inclusion not just within Washington Conservation Action, but also the labor movement at-large.”

Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 01/12/2024 - 08:19

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Giant and Safeway Workers in the DMV Area Ratify Strong, New Contracts

Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

More than 2,000 members of United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 400 who work at Giant and Safeway stores in Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia ratified new contracts that strengthen wages and protect benefits. The four-year contracts include average pay increases over four years of 24%, no increases in health care costs over the next four years, improved language on minimum hours for part-timers, pensions and safety, and other benefits. Members at Giant Food voted 1,340-266 and members at Safeway voted 761–131 in favor of ratifying the agreements.

Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 01/11/2024 - 10:32

The 2024 AFL-CIO Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Civil and Human Rights Conference Starts Friday

The 2024 AFL-CIO Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Civil and Human Rights Conference begins Friday and runs through Sunday.

The 2024 AFL-CIO Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Civil and Human Rights Conference begins Friday and runs through Sunday. The conference in 2024 will occur at a crucial moment for the labor and civil rights movements, as workers across the country are organizing at historic rates for dignity, respect and justice, both on the job and in our communities.

We are facing unprecedented attacks on our rights from politicians and judges who would rather put the interests of corporations over the needs of working people. We will come together not only to strengthen the bond between our two movements, but also to reignite our shared commitment to democracy and winning racial and economic justice for all.

Learn more. Select sessions will be livestreamed starting Friday morning, and they can view at themlkconference.org and aflcio.tv.

Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 01/10/2024 - 09:40

Worker Power in the Age of Tech: 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:

Each month, Equity shares the names of recently deceased members in order to honor their passing and pay our respects. You may read about the losses in our community reported to Equity for December 2023 on the member portal. https://t.co/icpVkejuyb pic.twitter.com/bCpR6kvfKO

— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) January 9, 2024

AFGE:

ICYMI: AFGE Organizing Director David Cann joined @AWFUnionPodcast to discuss how we achieved our highest yearly growth in more than a decade in 2023 - and why 2024 is shaping up to be just as strong 💪

🔊Listen: https://t.co/GUEzQhz33s

— AFGE (@AFGENational) January 11, 2024

AFSCME:

The public sector may be growing but not quickly enough. Now is not the time to take the foot off the gas. #StaffTheFrontLines https://t.co/21GKYqnSJh

— AFSCME (@AFSCME) January 10, 2024

Alliance for Retired Americans:

41 states (including DC) have adopted #Medicaid expansion under the Affordable care Act. But neither @RonDeSantis nor @NikkiHaley helped expand health coverage as Governor by making sure that Florida and South Carolina are on that list. #GOPDebate #CNNDebate

— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) January 11, 2024

Amalgamated Transit Union:

This week in Las Vegas, NV, the ATU partnered with the AFL-CIO and other unions for the Labor Innovation and Technology (LIT) Summit, where worker power in the age of tech was at center stage. International Executive Vice President Yvette Trujillo attended the LIT Summit, pic.twitter.com/6TrncXqhUT

— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) January 11, 2024

American Federation of Musicians:

Please help us pass 1000 signatures! Tell the AMPTP It's Time for Musicians to Get Their Fair Share. https://t.co/WMpsg3OYXA #Solidarity @sagaftra @AFTRA @WGAWest @WGAEast @IATSE @Teamsters @unitehere @AFLCIO @CaliforniaLabor @NYSAFLCIO https://t.co/AoHRUSWRzv

— AFM (@The_AFM) January 9, 2024

American Federation of Teachers:

We gave away more than 1 MILLION books in 2023 to help kids explore new worlds and grow as confident readers. We're excited to keep the momentum going in 2024! 

📚#ReadingOpensTheWorld #RealSolutionsForKids pic.twitter.com/4jXgOXREoB

— AFT (@AFTunion) January 9, 2024

American Postal Workers Union:

Support Services Director Arrion Brown provides a summary of recent Information Technology/Accounting Services meetings with Labor Management. https://t.co/QL6T6q3u6b

— The American Postal Workers Union - APWU (@APWUnational) January 10, 2024

Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:

“Our union supports the FAA's quick & decisive action to ground certain 737 MAX 9 that do not meet the inspection cycles specified in the EAD. This is critical to ensure the safety of all crew & pax, as well as confidence in aviation safety." Full stmt: https://t.co/1oC0m82igt https://t.co/p1NPgDIBpr

— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) January 6, 2024

Boilermakers:

Congratulations to #Boilermakers celebrating milestones 👏 See the latest service pins: https://t.co/ZrazSRGNxu#BoilermakersUnion #UnionProud #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/dvlh5HyeJJ

— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) January 11, 2024

Bricklayers:

Our first level #bricklayers are off to a strong start at @Bac1Oregon training center! Their motivation & hard work are valuable qualities that will help them succeed in their #bricklaying journey.#apprenticeshipworks #apprentices #skilledtrades #buildingtrades #1u #unionstrong pic.twitter.com/WMdWNzCWHV

— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) January 8, 2024

Coalition of Labor Union Women:

Our latest newsletter is out! Members should check their email inbox for the first CLUW newsletter of the year. Not on our list? Make sure you sign up at https://t.co/mS57OG71XC to stay connected with us!📰🤩

— CLUW National (@CLUWNational) January 5, 2024

Communications Workers of America:

16,000 CWA-IBT passenger service agents at American Airlines overwhelming voted to ratify a new contract that provides wage increases, enhanced 401K benefits, increased profit sharing, and a no-furlough clause, among other industry-leading benefits.

When we fight, we win! ✊🔥 pic.twitter.com/0aDofwgiAd

— CWA (@CWAUnion) January 8, 2024

Department for Professional Employees:

“AI is neither safe nor responsible unless it does right by workers…. We need to ask: ‘What can AI do to make life better for working people?’” - @ActSecJulieSu #LITSummit2024 pic.twitter.com/vJbgRTFMhr

— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) January 10, 2024

Electrical Workers:

Indiana wireman Is a full-time foreman, free-time MMA fighter. https://t.co/YpLpJhC5Nb pic.twitter.com/PgNZEN2dwG

— IBEW (@IBEW) January 10, 2024

Heat and Frost Insulators:

On Jan. 7, Local 118 members placed a wreath at the Bentall Memorial Plaque in Vancouver in memory of the four construction workers who lost their lives in 1981 constructing Bental IV. Thank you, Brothers and Sisters, for representing our trade. pic.twitter.com/SuNNmBhbBS

— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) January 10, 2024

Ironworkers:

"Ed Smith was a giant in the labor community; his absence will be felt far and wide." - Iron Workers Union General President Eric Dean

STATEMENT: https://t.co/sLRT2ZEk5n pic.twitter.com/mZeEWAQP5X

— Iron Workers Union (@TheIronworkers) January 4, 2024

Jobs With Justice:

Jobs With Justice is mourning the passing of our longtime National Board Member, Ed Smith. A larger-than-life figure who dedicated his life to championing workers’ rights, Ed understood the deep importance of connecting labor and community. pic.twitter.com/KVvaZMMx8R

— Jobs With Justice (@jwjnational) January 8, 2024

Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:

January 11th is known as National Human Trafficking Awareness Day. We at LCLAA support all victims of human trafficking and condemn the actions of traffickers.

Join the Blue Campaign by using #WearBlueDay! pic.twitter.com/qvuQLtnlvU

— LCLAA (@LCLAA) January 11, 2024

Labor Heritage Foundation:

Songs about newsboys of yesteryear; Newsies this ain’t! https://t.co/AdTPtITi7C

— Labor Heritage (@LaborHeritage1) January 7, 2024

Laborers:

👏👏👏👏 https://t.co/10AgpYcb4e

— LIUNA (@LIUNA) January 11, 2024

Machinists:

We back Buy American, and the Bright Line West high-speed rail trains should be built by IAM members with @Alstom, not overseas through a loophole. 

We'll keep the pressure on. American trains should be built by American union members! ⚙️💪 https://t.co/4PhRuEw751

— Machinists Union (@MachinistsUnion) January 11, 2024

Maritime Trades Department:

MTD Executive Secretary-Treasurer Mark Clements is a part of the AFL-CIO delegation to #CES2024 and representing Maritime at the 5th annual Labor Innovation & Technology summit in Las Vegas https://t.co/ii34oq95Zt

— Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO (@Maritime_Trades) January 9, 2024

Metal Trades Department:

Over 30% of workers at the Mercedes-Benz plant outside of Tuscaloosa, Alabama, have signed union authorization cards, the United Auto Workers (UAW) announced on Tuesday. https://t.co/PjBmQzKvFH

— Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) January 10, 2024

National Air Traffic Controllers Association:

NATCA’s National Election Committee has officially released the Notice of Election and Election Rules for NATCA’s 2024 National Election. Next year, NATCA members will elect the NATCA President, Executive Vice President, and ten Regional Vice Presidents.
https://t.co/P1cJa7yMuH pic.twitter.com/cogzPnk70K

— NATCA (@NATCA) January 11, 2024

National Association of Letter Carriers:

Week 1 of the NALC Leadership Academy is underway for Class 28! Over the next 5 months, these members will gather for 3 week-long sessions to develop & enhance the knowledge and skills essential for NALC Leaders. We look forward to sharing updates from Class 28 as they progress! pic.twitter.com/1bPfzTq1Lt

— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) January 10, 2024

National Domestic Workers Alliance:

Privacy rights, wage protections and mandatory breaks are just a few of the labor rights New Jersey’s 50,000 care workers deserve.

And they are well on their way to winning! 

The NJ #DomesticWorkersBillofRights has passed in the state legislature:https://t.co/zTjYz5doVY

— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) January 11, 2024

National Nurses United:

Nurse leaders standing strong for worker rights today with @AFLCIO President @LizShuler & champion for working people @ActSecJulieSu, at the Annual Labor Innovation and Technology Summit. #LITSummit2024 pic.twitter.com/mM2WbGEBff

— NationalNursesUnited (@NationalNurses) January 11, 2024

North America's Building Trades Unions:

“At the heart of this economic resurgence lies the pivotal role of union labor in ensuring substantial investments translate into successful projects and good, high-paying jobs for skilled local tradespeople.” 👏💪https://t.co/hwEWoUwR0w

— The Building Trades (@NABTU) January 8, 2024

Office and Professional Employees:

OPEIU was chartered on this day in 1945. Here’s to 79 more years of fighting the good fight! ✊ pic.twitter.com/v1sfaPQT0w

— OPEIU | #UnionStrong (@OPEIU) January 8, 2024

Painters and Allied Trades:

What is worker misclassification? Some employers in the construction industry attempt to evade the FLSA and the NLRA by misclassifying their employees as “independent contractors” or 1099 workers.

Learn more here 👉 https://t.co/aOoza9e4js pic.twitter.com/nZ6QU05DbZ

— IUPAT (@GoIUPAT) January 10, 2024

Plasterers and Cement Masons:

“With this latest action to strengthen economic security, labor-management relations & family-sustaining job opportunities, @POTUS is yet again demonstrating his rock-solid commitment to...all workers” @NABTU Pres. McGarvey on the Biden PLA Exec. Order.https://t.co/4HYvteRJVj

— OPCMIA International (@opcmiaintl) January 10, 2024

Professional Aviation Safety Specialists:

Thank you @PeteSessions for meeting w/ PASS Sec-Treas @PASScfodc Carlos Aguirre, FAA employee & PASS safety rep Tim Lindsey today to discuss FAA funding & implementation of BIL funds in Texas especially @cityofwaco Regional Airport. #publicservice #infrastructure #aviationsafety pic.twitter.com/QR9x9JkS0K

— PASS (@PASSNational) January 9, 2024

Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: workers at Autoneum in Oregon, Ohio are proud members of @RWDSU Local 379! #MembersAtWork pic.twitter.com/neZUIW3M4A

— RWDSU (@RWDSU) January 11, 2024

Roofers and Waterproofers:

If you’re working 6 or more feet above a lower level, your employer is required to provide you with fall protection – learn more at: https://t.co/SS3wZ2XImk #roofersafety365 pic.twitter.com/ug6DOFmPCF

— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) January 10, 2024

SAG-AFTRA:

That's a wrap on #LITSummit2024! 🎬 Insightful and inspiring discussions with leaders across labor, entertainment and technology about the future of workers in the innovation age are available on YouTube. Watch now: https://t.co/ylXAI8OQj5 pic.twitter.com/XGsLVZbg7D

— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) January 11, 2024

The NewsGuild-CWA:

Very disappointing behavior by @Gannett to not recognize Martin Luther King Jr. https://t.co/6ohNLVPt7Y

— NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) January 10, 2024

Transport Workers Union:

The @MTA should hold Hudson Valley hearings as @RepPatRyanNY says, and give public sector workers, like transport workers, CP discounts. pic.twitter.com/gr7ABVBLZ3

— TWU (@transportworker) January 11, 2024

UAW:

The brand may be foreign, but the labor is American. 

And American workers don't just roll over and take what we're given.

Mercedes workers in Alabama are ready to Stand Up.
    
And the whole working class is ready to stand with them.#StandUpUAW #1u #UAW pic.twitter.com/FB8MHxeYko

— UAW (@UAW) January 10, 2024

UNITE HERE:

"With corporations clamoring to use AI and other technology to either automate away jobs or shift the work onto consumers, it’s up to the labor movement to ensure workers have a seat at the table so that technology improves lives for workers and the public."

— D. Taylor https://t.co/qr6ouHCLVB pic.twitter.com/J16ral3QaP

— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) January 9, 2024

United Association of Union Plumbers and Pipefitters:

United Food and Commercial Workers:

UFCW members work hard and in response, we fight hard to ensure that the paychecks workers receive reflect this effort. 

According to a recent analysis from CNN, nearly 900,000 unionized workers won immediate pay hikes of 10% or more in 2023.

This is #WhyUnionsMatter pic.twitter.com/PfSXAAEJ79

— UFCW (@UFCW) January 10, 2024

United Steelworkers:

Our new Steelworkers members at @BlueBirdBuses will be there to show that clean energy jobs can and should be UNION jobs! #USW #1u https://t.co/Zbuy3kLbvh

— United Steelworkers #EverybodysUnion (@steelworkers) January 8, 2024

Utility Workers:

UWUA Safety Director Scotty MacNeill shares important updates from two recent conferences in the latest issue of The Utility Worker magazine. https://t.co/fXjkA8rcAT pic.twitter.com/85X5pTQiow

— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) January 11, 2024

Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 01/10/2024 - 09:36

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Singers of Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra and Chorale Secure Unanimous Union Victory with AGMA

Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

The singers of Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra and Chorale (PBOC) unanimously won their union election to the American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA), two months after signing union authorization cards. Negotiaons for their first contract are expected to begin shortly.

"We proudly celebrate the victory of the Artists of Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra and Chorale,” said AGMA National Executive Director Sam Wheeler. “Their triumph reflects the enduring power of collective action and the profound impact that artists can have when they join together. The addition of these exceptional singers to our union only makes us stronger.”

Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 01/10/2024 - 08:20

It's Better in a Union: In the States Roundup

It's time once again to take a look at the ways working people are making progress in the states. Click on any of the links to follow the state federations on X (formerly Twitter).

Alabama AFL-CIO:

We're excited the AFL-CIO Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Civil and Human Rights Conference will be here in Montgomery, Alabama this weekend! #MLK2024

— Alabama AFL-CIO (@AlabamaAFLCIO) January 8, 2024

Alaska State AFL-CIO:

Join us Saturday, January 13th for a #RedForEd rally in Town Square Park! #1u #akleg #akgov pic.twitter.com/xSE8SAxlhC

— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) January 5, 2024

California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:

Unions from all over CA came to vote on Labor’s endorsements in the 2024 Pre-Primary Election! We made over 100+ endorsements, including 35 union members & leaders running for office! Check the full list of Labor-endorsed candidates🔥⬇️ https://t.co/WhusE7PKBA #2024LaborsChoice

— California Labor Federation (@CaliforniaLabor) December 6, 2023

Florida AFL-CIO:

A strong majority of Floridians support labor unions in a recent poll.

“I’m very optimistic...There’s an organic nature to why people are in labor unions in spite of being up against forces that have all the money and all the megaphones.”https://t.co/jBPaB443n5

— Florida AFL-CIO (@FLAFLCIO) January 3, 2024

Illinois AFL-CIO:

Last month, Hire 360's Green Energy cohort toured the Norfolk Southern Expansion project.

Attendees were able to meet members from a variety of unions, ask questions and see them in action at work on active construction site. pic.twitter.com/eywEuYVkrO

— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) January 8, 2024

Indiana State AFL-CIO:

A big congratulations to the @EvansNewsGuild for their unionization effort! https://t.co/sI3oITifz7

— Indiana AFL-CIO (@INAFLCIO) January 8, 2024

Iowa Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO:

🙏 🙏 🙏 https://t.co/2eURx217lW

— Iowa AFL-CIO ✊ (@IowaAFLCIO) January 4, 2024

Massachusetts AFL-CIO:

Boston's own Ben Affleck and Matt Damon threw some shade at the Golden Globes last night. If you don't have time to watch the clip, it roughly translates to "It's better in a union, how 'bout them apples?"https://t.co/zGg8lyogoH

— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) January 8, 2024

Minnesota AFL-CIO:

Earned safe and sick time goes into effect, providing Minnesotans with guaranteed sick leave https://t.co/OCgo4Gauaa #1u #mnleg

— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) January 8, 2024

Missouri AFL-CIO:

Thank you to all the snow plow drivers who will work long hours this winter season to clear our roads and keep us safe. pic.twitter.com/rOZopiC96H

— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) January 8, 2024

Nevada State AFL-CIO:

While our Friends & Family Dinner is sold out, there is still space to buy an ad in our program book-- perfect to promote your business or advertise your candidacy. 

email Carlos at chernandez@nvaflcio.com if you're interested in purchasing an ad. pic.twitter.com/N26kPE3kb8

— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) January 5, 2024

New Hampshire AFL-CIO:

“Right-to-Work” (HB 1377) is back. The first public hearing is on 1/10 @ 3:00 PM. Please stand in #Solidarity with NH working families and sign in to register your opposition by using this link: https://t.co/1XUMH2zctU#NHPolitics #1u #RTW pic.twitter.com/H4acvogNXC

— New Hampshire AFL-CIO (@NHAFLCIO) January 3, 2024

New York State AFL-CIO:

Thank you and stay safe out there! pic.twitter.com/tYgTFhP8Wl

— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) January 7, 2024

North Dakota AFL-CIO:

CHI St. Alexius and nurses ratify agreement! 22% over three years!https://t.co/ecqKSTFwIP

— North Dakota AFL-CIO (@NDAFLCIO) January 4, 2024

Ohio AFL-CIO:

From @Teamsters to @AFGENational to @AFSCME to @reiunion to @OFTunion to @steelworkers to bipartisan electeds like @TomPattonOH and so many from the @OhioHouseDems, we say thank you for showing #Solidarity with the striking @MachinistsUnion https://t.co/GZGfh58we7

— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) January 9, 2024

Oregon AFL-CIO:

Joining a union is an indelible right every worker should have in our country. 

As Eisenhower so aptly put it, those who stand in the way are fools. #UnionStong #UnionPower pic.twitter.com/5xgcA0Qs1P

— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) January 9, 2024

Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:

Hollywood and auto strikes have workers and unions eager for more gains in 2024! #PowerToThePeople #YearOfTheWorkerhttps://t.co/FNYJ5IMwLg

— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) January 8, 2024

Rhode Island AFL-CIO:

Join us next week for our first virtual Lunch and Learn of 2024! 

This month we address Gun Violence as a labor issue with the @RICAGV1, NEA RI, and @MEAFLCIO 

Register here: https://t.co/viW9uAajbW pic.twitter.com/GuRzolhEmY

— Rhode Island AFL-CIO (@riaflcio) January 8, 2024

Tennessee AFL-CIO Labor Council:

Instead of continuing to stack the deck in favor of big business and corporate special interest groups, we need to level the playing field by rewriting our broken labor laws to give workers a fair shot at building off of last year's major victories. #1u https://t.co/bzM30wul71

— Tennessee AFL-CIO (@tnaflcio) January 5, 2024

Texas AFL-CIO:

Congratulations to @NationalNurses on yet more amazing organizing. #1u https://t.co/GJi7hlq1vh

— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) January 4, 2024

Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:

Washington State’s 2024 Legislative Session kicks off today! It’s a short session, so we only have 60 days to change the game for working folks. #WAleg

WSLC Pres. @aprilr_sims runs us through some of the bills we're fighting for. Full agenda @TheStandWA: https://t.co/yLJoFdEXzM pic.twitter.com/nb5jpui1x4

— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) January 8, 2024

West Virginia AFL-CIO:

“We’re seeing demand, and our apprenticeship programs are looking at ways that they’re prepared to have that workforce in place to not just build it but maintain those facilities for years to come,” WV ACT Director Justin Williams said.https://t.co/RQcJUaPgMA

— West Virginia AFLCIO (@WestVirginiaAFL) January 2, 2024

Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 01/09/2024 - 10:09

5th Annual Labor Innovation & Technology Summit

Co-founded by SAG-AFTRA, the AFL-CIO, and AFL-CIO Tech Institute, the 5th Annual Labor Innovation & Technology Summit will be held on Tuesday, January 9, and Wednesday, January 10. Programming on January 9 will be livestreamed and is free and open to the public. The Labor Innovation & Technology Summit brings together leaders from across the labor movement, entertainment sector and technology space to discuss what innovation means for the future of workers.

The Summit centers working people in conversations about innovation and technology change while focusing on worker advocacy, policies and programs that ensure working people thrive alongside innovation. From information and education to labor-management collaboration and training initiatives, the Summit shines a light on the people driving change and progress.

This year’s program is cosponsored by AFSCME, the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU), the Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE), National Nurses United (NNU), the Transport Workers Union (TWU), the Transportation Trades Department (TTD), UNITE-HERE and the United Association of Union Plumbers and Pipefitters (UA).

For more information and to watch Tuesday's livestreamed sessions, visit the Labor Innovation & Technology Summit website.

Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 01/08/2024 - 14:08

'When We Fight, We Win': 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.

Union Negotiating Strategy Pays Off in SoCal Hotel Deals: "The recent spate of tentative contract agreements between Southern California hotels and their unionized workers appeared to materialize out of the ether. After months with little progress reported, several deals were struck in succession, including the announcement of agreements with 10 hotels in a single day and another four soon thereafter, which brought the total to 24 in all. With workers at nearly 40 other hotels still seeking deals they can agree to, the larger picture is not complete. But what is becoming apparent is that the union’s negotiating strategy, willingness to call out hotels and their parent companies by name, and tactic of selective strikes have begun to click."

Fairfax Connector Workers Authorize Strike as Contract Negotiations Continue: "Hundreds of Fairfax Connector workers could strike if contract talks between their union and employer break down. Nearly a month after the end of their existing contract with Transdev, which operates Fairfax County’s public bus system, union drivers, mechanics and other employees voted on Dec. 29 to authorize a strike, the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 689 announced yesterday."

Laborers Local 773 Officials Have Confirmed That Edward M. Smith, Retired CEO and President, Has Died: "Laborers Local 773 officials have confirmed that Edward M. Smith, the retired CEO and president, has died. Smith had a long, distinguished career with the Laborers' International Union of North America. After joining LiUNA at age 13, he was elected business manager of Laborers Local 773 at age 21. Smith later became International Union Vice President and Midwest Regional Manager."

'When We Fight, We Win': VP Congratulates Culinary Union but Workers' Fight Isn't Over: "Hundreds of Culinary Union Local 226 workers gathered Wednesday to hear a congratulatory message from the United States Vice President Kamala Harris. Harris' visit to Las Vegas comes on the heels of a historic employment deal made between three resort corporations: Caesars Entertainment, MGM Resorts and Wynn Resorts in November."

Ohio State Wexner Medical Center Health Care Workers Vote to Unionize: "Health care workers at Ohio State University's (OSU) Wexner Medical Center have voted to join the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM). According to a press release, the nearly 1,000 workers are composed of Patient Care Associates (PCA) and Psychiatric Care Technicians (PCT)."

Labor Unrest in 2024 Poised to Leverage Union Contract Gains: "After a year of record-breaking strikes, expiring contracts in 2024 signal another significant but likely smaller potential wave of labor unrest. More than 1.1 million workers are covered by large union contracts that are due to end next year, according to a Bloomberg Law analysis of filings with the federal mediation service."

Unions Poised to Capitalize on U.S. Labor Board Rulings That Bolstered Organizing: "The coming year will reveal the full impact of a U.S. labor board's recent rulings that were seen as providing a major boost to union organizing and whether those changes can withstand legal challenges amid a series of high-profile labor campaigns. Democratic President Joe Biden's appointees to the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) paved the way in 2023 for workplaces to unionize outside of the decades-old secret ballot election process, made it easier for unions to organize franchise and contract workers, and expanded the type of worker conduct protected by U.S. labor law, among other significant moves."

Seafarers International Union President Emeritus Mike Sacco Has Died: "Seafarers International Union President Emeritus Michael Sacco passed away on Dec. 28, 2023, in St. Louis, surrounded by his family. He was 86 years old and passed away from natural causes. Brother Sacco was the longest-serving president in Seafarers (SIU) history, having led the organization from 1988 until his retirement in February 2023, a period spanning nearly 35 years. 'Mike’s leadership at the Seafarers International Union benefited generations of merchant mariners and all working people,' AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler said in an article announcing Sacco’s retirement in March 2023. 'Mike led his union with integrity and a fighting spirit that he learned as a rank-and-file member.' SIU President David Heindel described Sacco in the same article as 'an inspiration to members and officials alike.'"

Blue-Collar Workers Won Big in 2023, Defying Bleak Predictions: "A year that started out with bleak prospects, including a widely predicted recession, shaped up to be a boon for the average American worker—and one of the most triumphant for organized labor in a generation. More than 525,000 workers in the United States walked off the job in 2023, according to Bloomberg Law’s database of work stoppages, making it one of the three biggest strike years since 1990. Many of those strikes led to big concessions from employers, such as the landmark deal reached by the UAW in October."

Biden Rule Mandates Project Labor Agreements on Major Federal Building Projects: "President Joe Biden and Acting Labor Secretary Julie Su on Dec. 18 announced a new game-changing federal rule that, according to the AFL-CIO, will not only benefit workers, but also make our tax dollars go further by making construction projects more efficient. The rule mandates the use of Project Labor Agreements (PLAs) for large federal construction projects that cost $35 million or more. In expanding the use of PLAs, contractors and subcontractors will have to negotiate with unions to set terms for project construction—ensuring that the safety and dignity of workers are prioritized on the jobsites."

Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 01/08/2024 - 10:02

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Detroit Bus Drivers Secure Increased Pay, Safety in New Contract

Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

Detroit bus drivers, members of Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 26, secured increased pay, stronger bonuses and better safety in their new contract. The drivers will immediately receive a $3 per hour wage increase. Starting pay for new drivers is now $19.15 per hour. The maximum pay for those who have worked for at least four years increases from the current cap of $22.61 to $25.61 per hour. The attendance bonus available to drivers will increase from $1,000 to $1,500. 

"This is a great day for [the Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT)]. I drove for DDOT for 34 years and know how important this wage increase is for our drivers," added Local 26 President Schetrone Collier. "But this is just as much for the public as it is our drivers. This increase will help us hire and retain more drivers, so the public can know when they are at a stop and need to get to work or the doctor, DDOT is going to show up when we are supposed to. That's everyone's goal."

Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 01/08/2024 - 08:57

Economy Gains 216,000 Jobs in December; Unemployment Unchanged at 3.7%

The U.S. economy gained 216,000 jobs in December, and the unemployment rate was unchanged at 3.7%, according to figures released Friday morning by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

December’s biggest job gains were in government (+52,000), leisure and hospitality (+40,000), health care (+38,000), social assistance (+21,000), retail trade (+17,000), construction (+17,000), and professional and business services (+13,000). Transportation and warehousing (-23,000) saw losses in December. Employment showed little change over the month in other major industries, including mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction; manufacturing; wholesale trade; information; financial activities; and other services.

Among the major worker groups, the unemployment rates for teenagers (11.9%), Black workers (5.2%), Hispanic workers (5.0%), adult men (3.5%), White workers (3.5%), adult women (3.3%) and Asian American workers (3.1%) showed little change in December.

The number of long-term unemployed workers (those jobless for 27 weeks or longer) was little changed in December and accounted for 19.7% of the total number of people unemployed.

Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 01/05/2024 - 11:02

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Nurses in Resident and Fellow Programs at Ascension Seton Medical Center Austin Vote Overwhelmingly to join NNU

Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

Registered nurses in the resident and fellow programs at Ascension Seton Medical Center (ASMC) in Austin, Texas, voted 96% in favor of representation by the National Nurses Organizing Committee (NNOC), an affiliate of National Nurses United (NNU). The 225 RNs in these programs will join the 825 RNs who won their union election in September 2022. There now are more than 1,000 nurses represented by NNOC/NNU at Ascension Seton Medical Center in Austin and more than 2,500 represented throughout the Ascension system.

“We do the same work as any other union RN at this facility,” said Liz Bartling, RN and member of the resident program. “To the detriment of RNs and our patients, Ascension has maintained a ridiculous position that we should not join with our union colleagues at this facility. This vote clearly demonstrates that the registered nurses at Seton Main are united to advance the common interests of RNs and our patients—safer staffing, increased RN retention and a protected voice in patient care.”

Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 01/05/2024 - 10:00

Embracing Equality: 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:

Equity’s Diversity and Inclusion Department is excited to announce the launch of a new series: Embracing Equity. From age to disability to nationality, Equity members’ identities do not exist in a vacuum. pic.twitter.com/m5v6O5eZJ9

— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) January 3, 2024

AFGE:

AFGE is picking up where we left off 💪 

1,051 net new members added for the month of December! pic.twitter.com/HXl5Udc2Lq

— AFGE (@AFGENational) January 4, 2024

AFSCME:

Rest in power Elmore Nickleberry, the AFSCME brother who took part of the iconic 1968 Memphis Sanitation Workers’ Strike. https://t.co/kalBim49BZ

— AFSCME (@AFSCME) January 3, 2024

Alliance for Retired Americans:

Retiree news can come right to your inbox every Friday. Subscribe to our newsletter here: https://t.co/kFOB9Pb3ZT pic.twitter.com/Ohu4uHGiTk

— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) January 4, 2024

Amalgamated Transit Union:

We send our condolences to the victim of this unfortunate incident and join our Local 569-Edmonton, AB, in calling on the City to investigate the bus door design flaws to prevent this from happening again.https://t.co/QMBoQ6SRFe

— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) January 4, 2024

American Federation of Musicians:

Wishing you a New Year filled with health, happiness, and prosperity. 🎊 🥳 🎉 pic.twitter.com/W03EdW2yUB

— AFM (@The_AFM) January 1, 2024

American Federation of Teachers:

Shylynn Dixon's story is tragically not unique. Social media companies like @MetaNewsroom must do more to protect kids and communities. https://t.co/YcGDvfGpOo pic.twitter.com/CP6Be16J3H

— AFT (@AFTunion) January 4, 2024

Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:

Jan is National Slavery & Human Trafficking Prevention Month. We can take a stand against human trafficking by recommitting ourselves to end it on planes. As Flight Attendants & aviation's first responders, we are uniquely positioned to identify human traffickers & assist victims pic.twitter.com/2c3UKdUhrG

— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) January 4, 2024

Boilermakers:

ICYMI: The winter issue of the #Boilermaker Reporter has hit mailboxes 📬 Be sure to read your copy or find it online: https://t.co/sXYaDLWGbn#BoilermakersUnion #UnionStrong #UnionProud pic.twitter.com/jtG6G50PBM

— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) January 3, 2024

Bricklayers:

Proud of our Local 4 #California #tilesetters! Their quality work turned the project into art! 🎨#tradecareers #baclocal4socal #skilledtrades #buildingtrades #unionstrong💪 #1u pic.twitter.com/WkqawdIi6A

— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) January 3, 2024

Coalition of Labor Union Women:

ICYMI: Convention highlights from Minneapolis! Join us in May 2024 at our 50th Anniversary Celebration.https://t.co/QjQV73F70P

— CLUW National (@CLUWNational) December 14, 2023

Communications Workers of America:

Find out about the damage caused by @Gannett and what the NewsGuild-CWA is doing to fight back for our local news! 

✅RSVP for the virtual event on Tuesday, Jan 9, at 7pm EST: https://t.co/4DW3aObJ3I https://t.co/74yuY0xHWr

— CWA (@CWAUnion) January 4, 2024

Department for Professional Employees:

“As a PCA, I am so happy to have a voice in the workplace finally.” @MachinistsUnion https://t.co/ELL3k04D4W

— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) January 4, 2024

Electrical Workers:

"For many, the New Year means resolutions to exercise more, quit smoking or lose weight. Here is another resolution I hope you consider: do your part to build a bigger and stronger #IBEW in 2024." https://t.co/Q5bLV857ma pic.twitter.com/skgZ1aPUU9

— IBEW (@IBEW) January 4, 2024

Heat and Frost Insulators:

Local 64 out of Tulsa is celebrating 104 years of being a chartered union! Congratulations! pic.twitter.com/1788WsrnYc

— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) January 4, 2024

International Labor Communications Association:

RESULTS ARE IN: congrats to all the winners of the 2023 ILCA Labor Media Awards! Thousands of entries that tell the story of the global labor movement were judged by experts in the field across the industry. Check out the full list of winners: https://t.co/NbWoxdt4fS pic.twitter.com/0182s0djTM

— International Labor Communications Association (@ILCAonline) December 18, 2023

Ironworkers:

"Ed Smith was a giant in the labor community; his absence will be felt far and wide." - Iron Workers Union General President Eric Dean

STATEMENT: https://t.co/sLRT2ZEk5n pic.twitter.com/mZeEWAQP5X

— Iron Workers Union (@TheIronworkers) January 4, 2024

Jobs With Justice:

That's a wrap! The worker power we witnessed in 2023 has energized the entire country and we can't wait to see what victories are ahead. We'll be standing shoulder-to-shoulder with workers in 2024 as they demand thriving wages, safety, the freedom to organize, & SO MUCH MORE. pic.twitter.com/Nx8COM4xH7

— Jobs With Justice (@jwjnational) December 31, 2023

Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:

Our collective journey continues, and with you back in the fold, we are poised for even greater achievements. Let's embark on this new phase with enthusiasm, solidarity, and the unwavering belief that together, there's nothing we cannot accomplish.
Welcome 2024! pic.twitter.com/7zSYxU9Hzn

— LCLAA (@LCLAA) January 3, 2024

Labor Heritage Foundation:

🎶On today’s Labor Heritage Power Hour radio show, 1p @WPFWDC hear about @AFSCME prez Lee Saunders' favorite labor song @Kahn75Si @Heartland_Labor #LaborHeritagePowerHour #AmericanWorkers #LaborRadioNetwork #LaborSongs #LaborHistory #RadioShow" pic.twitter.com/hb1258HAnX

— Labor Heritage (@LaborHeritage1) January 4, 2024

Laborers:

LiUNA Sisters are building up stronger communities and inclusive pathways in the industry while knocking down barriers every step of the way! Let’s give it up for our LiUNA Sisters working across all sectors, who build and better our country! pic.twitter.com/mB9sRA8xb1

— LiUNA! Canada (@LiUNACanada) January 3, 2024

Machinists:

NEW: Nearly 1,000 healthcare professionals at the Ohio State University’s Wexner Medical Center have voted to join the IAM!

The workers joined together for improved staffing, substantial pay raises and reinforced benefits that come with a union contract.https://t.co/PNwfzEavzl

— Machinists Union (@MachinistsUnion) January 3, 2024

Mine Workers:

President Roberts joined America’s Work Force Union Podcast and discussed the dangers of silica dust, the Warrior Met Strike in Alabama, and outdated protective equipment for miners.https://t.co/ZtriJAOJOq

— United Mine Workers (@MineWorkers) January 2, 2024

National Air Traffic Controllers Association:

NATCA’s National Election Committee has officially released the Notice of Election and Election Rules for NATCA’s 2024 National Election. Next year, NATCA members will elect the NATCA President, Executive Vice President, and ten Regional Vice Presidents.
https://t.co/P1cJa7yMuH pic.twitter.com/xcwOwlcMTz

— NATCA (@NATCA) January 3, 2024

National Association of Letter Carriers:

NALC and the Postal Service have agreed to an extension of the joint route evaluation and adjustment process until May 31, 2024, including an additional opt-in period to include delivery zones for evaluation and adjustment. Learn more here: https://t.co/o9g6FKfSDE

— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) January 3, 2024

National Domestic Workers Alliance:

As we close out the final day of the year, we’re celebrating the incredible wins domestic workers fought for this year! 

We made history, changed lives, and we’ll be back at it next year! pic.twitter.com/BPKTl6YrWL

— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) December 31, 2023

National Federation of Federal Employees:

NFFE President Erwin: Federal Worker Pay Increase for 2024 Not Enough to Offset Inflation Plus Federal-Private Pay Gaphttps://t.co/UylkoUuATy

— NFFE (@NFFE_Union) January 2, 2024

National Nurses United:

🎉 Our union family at @Ascensionorg Seton Medical Center in Austin is growing!

RNs in the resident and fellow programs have voted 96 percent in favor to join NNU. There's now more than a thousand union nurses in Austin! 📈 https://t.co/EjUXimIUZK

— NationalNursesUnited (@NationalNurses) January 4, 2024

NWSL Players Association:

That is Tori Huster. That is *our* President. 

We celebrate you, your career, and all you have meant to us. Thank you for gracing us with your presence and for being you, Tori. https://t.co/MxWSCyc1Zs

— NWSLPA (@nwsl_players) December 31, 2023

NFL Players Association:

Sending everyone best wishes for the New Year! 🎆 What's one goal you're setting for 2024? pic.twitter.com/XINsrlKj4b

— NFLPA (@NFLPA) January 1, 2024

North America's Building Trades Unions:

"This building for electricians is like Harvard University. It's like the cream of the crop."

Read about the newly renovated, state-of-the-art @IBEW training center in Boston.https://t.co/t8XlDP8btu

— The Building Trades (@NABTU) January 3, 2024

Office and Professional Employees:

As we reflect on the past year and celebrate the new one, we look forward to continuing to build power at work and in our communities, bringing the benefits of union membership to more working families.

Have a safe, happy and joyful New Years! pic.twitter.com/2CZdOpGVfw

— OPEIU | #UnionStrong (@OPEIU) January 1, 2024

Painters and Allied Trades:

"I'll be the first woman journeyworker out of our Local 1590 in Sarnia, Canada. I'm a role model for other women because if they see I can do it, they think they can do it too."

IUPAT women like DC 46's Jada Marsh are breaking down barriers for women in the trades every day! pic.twitter.com/FCklxmJj3O

— IUPAT (@GoIUPAT) January 3, 2024

Plasterers and Cement Masons:

👍 @ActSecJulieSu: Are you looking to start a new career path?

✨ This is your sign to start a Registered Apprenticeship ✨ pic.twitter.com/WxDgJiHwyX

— OPCMIA International (@opcmiaintl) December 30, 2023

Pride At Work:

Our very own National Executive Board Vice President, Jarel Sanders was featured on Labor Heritage Power Hour discussing the new film "Rustin". Have a listen to the podcast to learn more about this unique film from an Organizers standpoint: https://t.co/Os1ACTPN8G #1u pic.twitter.com/jvVBcPAkeV

— Pride at Work (@PrideatWork) January 2, 2024

Professional Aviation Safety Specialists:

PASS membership is growing & we're hiring! We're seeking an organizer to join our Organizing & Member Education Dept. Enjoy bringing union rights to the workplace? Join our team! #1u #unionsolidarity #publicservice https://t.co/sTzdWiLGwx

— PASS (@PASSNational) January 3, 2024

Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:

Here’s some @RWDSU trivia for you on #NationalTriviaDay: RWDSU President Emeritus Lenore Miller was not only the first woman president of the RWDSU, but the first woman union president to serve on the @AFLCIO Executive Council! pic.twitter.com/tlgXwJ1or5

— RWDSU (@RWDSU) January 4, 2024

Roofers and Waterproofers:

Working outside this winter? Check out these tips on how to stay warm! https://t.co/7EkCpt7tQC#roofersafety365 pic.twitter.com/IHt1pY6KLk

— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) January 4, 2024

SAG-AFTRA:

🌟Did you know? Our #SagAftraMembers can explore a world of free opportunities with @sagaftraFOUND including virtual workshops and panels, on-camera labs in Los Angeles and New York, and more! 🎥🗽 Dive in at https://t.co/TnqmAAKWzM pic.twitter.com/1MI1icz0xU

— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) January 4, 2024

Seafarers:

From the @ITFglobalunion 
Michael Sacco https://t.co/3iHblyOVZo

— Seafarers Union (@SeafarersUnion) December 30, 2023

Solidarity Center:

We stand in solidarity with brave steel workers in Iran fighting for decent wages and recognition as permanent employees.https://t.co/lopQvNtmLL

— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) January 4, 2024

The NewsGuild-CWA:

The newsroom at CQ Roll Call launched a union today!

“I’m proud to support the CQ Roll Call Guild, where we’re fighting for better pay and benefits, stronger job protections, and greater say in management decisions that affect us" @ksophiewillhttps://t.co/YEejKq8gpA

— NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) January 3, 2024

Theatrical Stage Employees:

Thanks to all of our members who participated in our Fourth Annual IATSE Holiday Photo contest.

To check out our contest winners and honorable mentions go here: https://t.co/swTC9j7X6e

— IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) January 4, 2024

Transport Workers Union:

People became more fearful of driverless vehicles in 2023 - for good reason. The public is being used as guinea pigs for deadly dangerous tech. When will the @NHTSAgov take regulatory control, and investigate all #robotaxis? @TwuSamuelsen #AutonomousVehicles #union #RoadSafety pic.twitter.com/9BotDbUf9d

— TWU (@transportworker) December 30, 2023

Transportation Trades Department:

We join our maritime union siblings in mourning the loss of Michael Sacco, who served as president of the Seafarers International Union for close to 35 years until his retirement last year. https://t.co/zu2a6vyZe0

— TTD | America's Transportation Unions (@TTDAFLCIO) January 3, 2024

UAW:

Today, 33 U.S. Senators are calling on 13 non-union auto companies to refrain from union-busting as over 150,000 autoworkers have launched campaigns to organize with the UAW. https://t.co/0BvmY4XRxy pic.twitter.com/sNsU9hfnIz

— UAW (@UAW) January 4, 2024

Union Label and Service Trades Department:

Minimum-wage workers in 22 states will be getting raises on Jan. 1 https://t.co/VpzeedY1P5

— Union Label Dept. (@ULSTD_AFLCIO) December 28, 2023

UNITE HERE:

In the last installment of our look 2023 year in review, we worked hard to build and strengthen our political power. pic.twitter.com/omF27sxehq

— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) December 31, 2023

United Food and Commercial Workers:

Workers at the Barnes & Noble store at the Almaden Plaza Shopping Center in San Jose, CA, voted in favor of representation by @UFCW5. 

Welcome to UFCW! 

Learn more: https://t.co/8t7Niwi4sV pic.twitter.com/boIjP4uTdA

— UFCW (@UFCW) January 2, 2024

United Steelworkers:

Our members take seriously our responsibility making the high-quality tin plate used to properly preserve canned foods on which our country relies. That's why we're testifying before Congress today to try to save the tin industry from unfair trade. Watch: https://t.co/HW0TkJMLrr pic.twitter.com/bNJIEH6pDO

— United Steelworkers #EverybodysUnion (@steelworkers) January 4, 2024

Utility Workers:

This advice applies year-round but is especially important in cold, snowy weather. Stay safe on the job! pic.twitter.com/IY7agwTuwq

— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) January 4, 2024

Writers Guild of America, East:

WGA, @TelevisionAcad and Fox are happy to announce that we've reached an agreement to include the Writing for a Variety Series category in the 75th #Emmy Awards telecast airing live on @FOXTV on January 15, 2024, at 8pm EST/5pm PST.

— Writers Guild of America East (@WGAEast) January 3, 2024

Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 01/04/2024 - 10:44

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Nearly 1,000 Health Care Workers at Ohio State University’s Wexner Medical Center Vote to Join IAM

Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

Nearly 1,000 patient care associates and psychiatric care technicians at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center voted to join the Machinists (IAM). The organizing effort was a collaboration between IAM and the Ohio State University Nurses Organization, a local of the Ohio Nurses Association and an affiliate of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), which represents approximately 4,000 registered nurses at Wexner Medical Center.

“The resilience and unity demonstrated by the patient care associates at Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center has been nothing short of inspiring,” said IAM Organizing Department Grand Lodge Representative Ali Rhodes. “We are proud to welcome them into the IAM family, and we look forward to working together to secure better conditions for all.”

Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 01/04/2024 - 10:16

Happy New Year! In the States Roundup

It's time once again to take a look at the ways working people are making progress in the states. Click on any of the links to follow the state federations on X (formerly Twitter).

Alaska AFL-CIO:

BIG UNION WIN 🚨

Wells Fargo employees at its Albuquerque, New Mexico branch won their union election today! First big bank employees to be represented by a union. 

Workers at a branch in Bethel, AK have their election tomorrow! #WFunion #UnionYes #1u https://t.co/dZo4ORW3YU

— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) December 21, 2023

California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:

This holiday season, we're celebrating the incredible workers who made 2023 a year of #HotLaborSummer, an everlasting #SolidaritySeason, the Year of Strikes. 

Happy Holidays, and here's to making 2024 even hotter with more solidarity, wins, and union power! #UnionizeCalifornia pic.twitter.com/CYSdxTpWSg

— California Labor Federation (@CaliforniaLabor) December 25, 2023

Connecticut AFL-CIO:

Congratulations to the first cannabis workers in CT to ratify their union contract!

HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:
– Up to 25% wage increases over 3 years
– Increased holiday pay
– Guaranteed PTO
– Secured retirement & health insurance
– Increased safety measures
– Job protection https://t.co/Vl0eanU4a2

— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) December 29, 2023

Georgia State AFL-CIO:

Union power isn't just about fair pay; it's about a collective voice. When we stand together, we make our workplaces and communities stronger. #UnionStrong #Unity #LaborRights #1u #georgialabor #joinus #unity #unionsforall pic.twitter.com/auuAmXwRiP

— Georgia AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOGeorgia) December 28, 2023

Illinois AFL-CIO:

It's never too early to start planning.

The New Year is a great time to think about the future of apprenticeships for youth.

That's why the @USDOL is launching its first-ever Youth Apprenticeship Week in May.

More here: https://t.co/zpkvDq3vbT pic.twitter.com/dIddTkH76q

— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) January 2, 2024

Indiana State AFL-CIO:

There we so many major union victories in 2023, more than we have seen in a long time. In 2024 let's keep up the momentum and keep up the winning! A Happy New Year from us to you. pic.twitter.com/ZtmstK2at7

— Indiana AFL-CIO (@INAFLCIO) January 1, 2024

Maine AFL-CIO:

We are incredibly proud of our fellow Mainer & former BIW shipbuilder Brian Bryant who has just become the 15th President of the Machinists Union! Give him a follow, will ya? https://t.co/SrsvjD6gVP

— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) January 2, 2024

Massachusetts AFL-CIO:

Simple. Join a union. https://t.co/lbmE7cHC43

— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) January 3, 2024

Minnesota AFL-CIO:

Hundreds of thousands of workers won life-changing union contracts in 2023 by going on strike. 

And we're just getting started.https://t.co/HMdHuciXra

— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) January 3, 2024

Nebraska State AFL-CIO:

Looking forward to a prosperous year! In Solidarity! #UnionStrong #ItsBetterInAUnion pic.twitter.com/dKD1KLXuVf

— NE State AFL-CIO (@NEAFLCIO) January 1, 2024

Nevada State AFL-CIO:

With the college application deadline right around the corner, not every child wants to attend a traditional 4-year college. Lets normalize the conversation around kids finding their own path. pic.twitter.com/5t9kXr817s

— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) January 2, 2024

New York State AFL-CIO:

You can hear more about this on our latest episode of the #UnionStrong podcast, "It's Not a Nursing Shortage; It's a Staffing Crisis" https://t.co/eTlSzQApBc https://t.co/cbPph8EeMr

— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) December 21, 2023

North Carolina State AFL-CIO:

In 2023, unions were more popular than ever, and through the power of solidarity, we won union elections, fair contracts, and better policies across our country and NC. Read what we accomplished together in our 2023 Annual Report: https://t.co/vHdKLWg7cx #1u #ncpol #countmein pic.twitter.com/Dze5MCUd1a

— NC State AFL-CIO // #CountMeIn (@NCStateAFLCIO) December 30, 2023

Ohio AFL-CIO:

No small victory! Congratulations to the @GHPL_United workers on their first contract with @OFTunion @AFTunion. Library workers across #Ohio understand #ItsBetterInAUnionhttps://t.co/BxmhOOF3M7

— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) January 2, 2024

Oregon AFL-CIO:

What’s your #NewYearsResolution? 

How about standing together with your coworkers and organizing a union? 

If you’re ready to get started, head to https://t.co/08IJx7trTX pic.twitter.com/XCoWeukbjO

— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) December 30, 2023

Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:

2023 was an extraordinary year for #LaborUnions! #1u #PowerToThePeople #SolidaritySeasonhttps://t.co/bRKc1mYcWg

— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) December 22, 2023

Rhode Island AFL-CIO:

Welcome back from holiday break! 
Enjoy this feature of the unsung workers who didn't get to take the holidays off, Rhode Island's public service workers: https://t.co/kQuvdU2tyh

— Rhode Island AFL-CIO (@riaflcio) January 2, 2024

Tennessee AFL-CIO Labor Council:

With a week left until the Tennessee General Assembly reconvenes, this hypothetical legislation is badly-needed, and we're hopeful that it will be introduced. #TNLeg #1u https://t.co/jhVRmZQa4m

— Tennessee AFL-CIO (@tnaflcio) January 2, 2024

Texas AFL-CIO:

In 2023, Texas workers proved definitively that they are and will continue to be at the front lines of the labor movement.

This year, we're going to organize like never before, fight like hell, and build the Texas of our future. 

Happy New Year!

— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) January 1, 2024

Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:

“Nothing moves without workers. Our labor is the backbone of our economy. And in 2023, workers fought and won.”

Read WSLC President April Sims’ PNW labor year-in-review at @TheStandWA https://t.co/jSAu3T38oZ pic.twitter.com/2CqZZrXG0s

— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) December 31, 2023

West Virginia AFL-CIO:

“We’re seeing demand, and our apprenticeship programs are looking at ways that they’re prepared to have that workforce in place to not just build it but maintain those facilities for years to come,” WV ACT Director Justin Williams said.https://t.co/RQcJUaPgMA

— West Virginia AFLCIO (@WestVirginiaAFL) January 2, 2024

Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:

Solidarity with @WFNHP workers as they launch their union organizing drive at Planned Parenthood Wisconsin. pic.twitter.com/aHgdFYhPqi

— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) December 30, 2023

Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 01/03/2024 - 08:58

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Barnes & Noble Workers in California Join UFCW Local 5

Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

Workers at the Barnes & Noble store at the Almaden Plaza Shopping Center in San Jose, California, voted 90% in favor of union representation with United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 5. The election concluded a monthslong campaign where workers overcame strong company opposition to join the growing number of unionized Barnes & Noble locations that include New York City; Brooklyn, New York; Hadley, Massachusetts; and Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey.

The workers are seeking to address low and stagnant wages, inadequate health benefits, and a failure of management to address health and safety concerns at the workplace.

“We are seeing a bigger movement in retail organizing at companies that have always prided themselves as being ‘progressive,’” said Local 5 organizer Freddi Farias. “Workers are beginning to see through the façade and hold companies accountable to the values that they claim to have.”

Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 01/03/2024 - 08:25

Worker Wins: Stop Spending Money on Union Busting

Our latest roundup of worker wins includes numerous examples of working people organizing, bargaining and mobilizing for a better life. 

NLRB Upholds Portillo’s Union Election Win: Hot diggity dog! Last week, National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) officials upheld the results of an April union election at a Portillo’s food preparation facility in Addison, Illinois. Workers at the plant prepare iconic menu items, such as Italian beef and sweet peppers, for local Portillo’s restaurants. Other members of the bargaining unit include forklift operators, mechanics and sanitation workers. Staff voted this spring to unionize with Ironworkers, but Portillo’s objected to the successful vote within days. Local NLRB officials then issued a report overruling the company’s objections, which Portillo’s promptly appealed. On Dec. 18, National Labor Relations Board Regional Director Angie Cowan Hamada ruled again, in favor of the union. “I feel very happy because once again, we demonstrated to Portillo’s that our union election was clean,” said Portillo’s worker Fernando Jimenez, who has worked at the facility for more than three decades. “We want them to finally sit down and negotiate our contract, and stop spending money on union busting.”AP News Guild Secures Christmas Eve Contract Deal: Do you believe in Christmas miracles? The Associated Press (AP) News Guild—part of The NewsGuild-Communication Workers of America (TNG-CWA)—announced Christmas Eve that they have finally struck a deal with management on a three-year contract after 19 months of negotiations. AP workers secured wins up and down the contract including bonuses, raises, pathways to permanent positions for temporary employees, parental leave increases and more. “This announcement follows rounds of intense discussions with the company over the last two weeks, culminating in even more intense discussions over the last two days. Our efforts were backed by strong member pressure through social media, petitions and emails to AP executives,” AP News Guild said in a statement.IBEW Signs Agreement for Largest Renewable Energy Project in North American History: The Electrical Workers (IBEW) signed a project labor agreement last week as part of the largest renewable energy project in North American history. Pattern Energy’s 3.5-gigawatt Sun Zia wind project has been in the works for years, but thanks in part to the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the Inflation Reduction Act (signed by President Biden this year and in 2022, respectively), shovels are finally hitting dirt in this massive clean energy infrastructure. In addition to producing enough clean power for more than 3 million homes, the $1.3 billion, 580-mile transmission line stretching from New Mexico to Arizona is estimated to create more than 2,000 construction jobs. “The IBEW leads the way in recruiting and training the highly skilled workforce needed to build out a clean energy infrastructure and a resilient and modern grid,” said IBEW International President Kenneth W. Cooper in the press release.Ohio Nurses Win Insurance Pricing Arbitration Against University of Cincinnati Medical Center: Part-time nurses at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center (UCMC) are celebrating a huge win after an arbitrator ruled that a sudden hike to their insurance rates violated their contract. The Ohio Nurses Association (ONA)—a state constituent of the American Nurses Association and American Federation of Teachers (AFT)—represents 1,450 registered nurses at the medical center, 300 of whom are part-time employees. The fight started back in 2020 when UCMC increased insurance rates for the part-time nursing staff despite the contract clearly outlining that all nurses were entitled to the same rates. The ONA argued that part-time employees were unfairly targeted, with some facing up to a 60% increase in their medical costs and premiums. However, thanks to the diligence of union leadership in the grievance process, the ONA has received notice that the hospital will issue reimbursement for the past three years in 2024. “People are excited. They see that when we work together, we can get something done,” said Kelly Hickman-Begley, vice president of the Registered Nurses Association of UCMC, the chapter represented by the ONA. Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 01/02/2024 - 09:38

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Washington Center NATCA Member Brighten Holidays with Toy Drive

Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

Members of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) members at Washington Center in Virginia contributed generously to at-risk youth for the holidays. The members purchased several thousand dollars’ worth of toys in support of Loudoun Mobile Hope, a group that provides support and emergency shelter to young people up to age 24 who are at-risk, precariously housed or homeless. The organization empowers these young people to become self-sufficient and experience improved well-being. Mobile Hope’s toy drive, which supplements the Toys for Tots program, has a goal of collecting 10,000 toys this year for local children.

Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 01/02/2024 - 08:52

Worker Wins: Best Contracts Ever

Our latest roundup of worker wins includes numerous examples of working people organizing, bargaining and mobilizing for a better life. 

Ice Cream Producers Organize at Ben & Jerry’s Waterbury Plant: Workers at Ben & Jerry’s flagship plant in Waterbury, Vermont, won union recognition Wednesday by way of card-check and joined United Commercial and Food Workers (UFCW) Local 371. Ben & Jerry’s parent company, Unilever, agreed to neutrality in unionization efforts earlier this year, paving the way for ice cream processors to organize for representation at the iconic frozen treat brand. Workers at the plant have been organizing for months to ensure that they could codify the benefits and rights they currently have. Ronald Petronella, president of Local 371, applauded the neutrality commitment and said, “We’re just very pleased that Ben & Jerry’s chose to go down this path rather than to be in an adversarial situation.”Culinary Union Announces Tentative Agreements for New 5-Year Contracts with Mirage/Hard Rock and Tropicana: UNITE HERE Culinary Union in Las Vegas announced on Wednesday exciting new tentative agreements reached between The Mirage (now owned and operated by Hard Rock International) and Tropicana Las Vegas casino resorts. Calling the new five-year deals the “best contract[s] ever,” these negotiations impact some 2,000 hospitality workers in a city where the economy is famously driven by tourism. Earlier this month, another tentative agreement was made with the Four Seasons Las Vegas hotel that would cover an additional 300 hospitality workers. These wins come after the Culinary Union has already settled new contracts this year with the three casino giants, MGM Resorts, Caesars Entertainment and Wynn Resorts—ahead of massive events like the Formula One 2023 Las Vegas Grand Prix and Super Bowl LVIII—ensuring the workers who make the entertainment capital of the world run are protected and paid fairly.Tech Workers at Princeton Public Schools File to Unionize: Technology workers at Princeton Public Schools in New Jersey unanimously submitted a petition to the New Jersey Public Employment Relations Commission to unionize with Office and Professional Employees (OPEIU) Local 32. The group, Princeton Public Schools Technology Association (PPSTA), requested voluntary recognition, but was refused. “We believe we can better address our job responsibilities once our concerns with staffing levels, budgetary constraints, and workplace conditions are reviewed and resolved,” the group said in the petition.Cannabis Workers in Colorado Ratify First Contract: Members of United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 7 who work at the Green Dragon cannabis grow house in Denver overwhelmingly voted to ratify their first union contract. They are the first grow house unit to unionize under the new Colorado law that allows agriculture workers to form a union. The workers are concerned about workplace safety and job security at the facility. The new 18-month contract includes multiple raises during the lifetime of the agreement, two retention bonuses, the creation of a safety committee, protections against “at will” employment and accrued vacation time for the workers, which they previously did not have.In Historic Election, University Medical Center Nurses in New Orleans Vote to Join NNOC/NNU: Registered nurses at University Medical Center (UMC) New Orleans voted in favor of joining National Nurses Organizing Committee/National Nurses United (NNOC/NNU), the union announced on Dec. 9. Despite a union-busting effort from management, nurses voted 82% in favor of the union with over 90% turnout. “This is a historic day for UMC, for New Orleans and the surrounding area, and for all of Louisiana and the South,” said Dionne Jones, an RN in the in-house nurse pool at UMC. “Nurses at our hospital wanted a voice so we can speak up for our patients and ourselves, and we wanted a seat at the table to be involved in shaping the future of our hospital. Now that we’ve won our union, we have both.”University of Hawaii Professional Assembly Votes to Join Forces with AFT: The University of Hawaii Professional Assembly (UHPA) board of directors voted unanimously to affiliate with the American Federation of Teachers (AFT). The AFT executive council is expected to vote to accept the 3,000-member UHPA as an affiliate this week. “The UHPA board strongly believes it is a critical time to affiliate with the AFT to benefit our members. Academic freedom and the rights of faculty are increasingly under siege across the nation. Politics interfere with university decisions, and faculty are in the crosshairs,” said David Duffy, president of the UHPA board of directors and principal investigator of numerous botany- and zoology-related research projects that have secured millions of dollars in extramural (nonstate) grants for the University of Hawaii. “We also continually face challenges in our state with ongoing, meddlesome legislation that undermines the University of Hawaii’s autonomy and threatens individual faculty and programs—clear violations of our state constitution.”OPEIU Members and TruStage Reach Tentative Contract Agreement: Workers at TruStage, an insurance company based in Madison, Wisconsin, reached a tentative contract agreement after nearly two years of negotiations that led to a strike last spring. Office and Professional Employees (OPEIU) Local 39 represents 450 TruStage workers. “We will be taking the next week to meet with our members and to vote on the contract,” said Kathryn Bartlett-Mulvihill, OPEIU Local 39 president and business manager.After Nearly 5 Years, Engineering Association Member Timothy Hubbard Wins Back His Job: Timothy Hubbard, who was unjustly fired by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), won back his job, with back pay, after an arbitrator ruled in his favor. Hubbard is a member of the Engineering Association, International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE) Local 1937. He worked as a radiation protection technician at TVA and was a Local 1937 steward at the time he was fired. The arbitrator found that “the grievant’s termination is to be set aside and the grievant is to be returned to work with back pay and no loss of seniority or benefits.” “I have been waiting now for five years for this day to come,” Hubbard said. “I, and my union, knew that TVA fired me without cause, and did so without providing me any due process.…If I told you that this has not taken a toll on my family and me, both personally and professionally, I’d be lying. All of us as workers need the protections that come with a union card, and that is exactly what I got from my Union.”Netflix Production Accountants Unionize with IATSE: Production accountants who work at Netflix in New York and New Jersey unionized with Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 161. Production accountants are broadly responsible for “recording all financial transactions on a project; managing compliance; and paying third parties, cast and crew on TV shows and films.” “I don’t think it gets mentioned enough within our industry the importance that the accounting department plays within a production,” said second assistant production accountant Ignacio Brea. “The goal for all of us involved in this campaign is really to empower accountants across the board to just take ourselves more seriously, as well. Because accounting is an integral part of productions.”Conagra Maintenance Workers in Indiana Join UFCW Local 700: The 28 maintenance workers at Conagra Bakery joined United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 700 because they want the same benefits and treatment as their unionized colleagues who work in the processing division of the same plant and in the maintenance division at the other Conagra plant in Indianapolis. “We’re excited to work together and negotiate a contract that provides a good work-life balance and creates equitable treatment for everyone in the department,” said UFCW Local 700 President Tracy Bartak. “Conagra Bakery maintenance workers deserve the same type of job protections as everyone else in the plant.”SAG-AFTRA Members Approve 2023 TV/Theatrical Contracts Agreement: Members of SAG-AFTRA ratified the 2023 TV/Theatrical Agreement on Tuesday with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers. Members approved the new, multiyear contracts covering television, theatrical and streaming production by a vote of 78%. The contract includes more than $1 billion in new compensation and benefit plan funding, outsized gains to the traditional residuals formulas, a new compensation model for performers working in streaming, a substantial bonus on top of existing streaming residuals structures, compensation escalation for principal and background actors, detailed informed consent and compensation guardrails for the use of artificial intelligence (AI), hair and makeup equity, meaningful protections for the casting process, sexual harassment prevention protections, and more. “I’m proud of our SAG-AFTRA membership,” SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher said. “They struck for 118 days to grant the TV/Theatrical Negotiating Committee the necessary leverage to secure over $1 billion in gains, along with the union’s first-ever protections around AI technology. Now they’ve locked in the gains by ratifying the contract. SAG-AFTRA members have remained incredibly engaged throughout this process, and I know they’ll continue their advocacy throughout our next negotiation cycle. This is a golden age for SAG-AFTRA, and our union has never been more powerful.”Hospital Doctors in Oregon and Washington Vote to Organize: Doctors at six Legacy Health hospitals in Oregon and Washington voted overwhelmingly to organize. The vote was certified by the National Labor Relations Board on Nov. 17. Hospital doctors are unionizing to improve local health care and give front-line providers a voice in the decisions that impact their patients’ care, communities’ health and hospital working conditions. The doctors will be members of the Pacific Northwest Hospital Medicine Association, an affiliate of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT). “We’re caring for more people who are sicker than ever before. We need more staff to give our patients the time and attention they need,” said Eric Seymour, a pediatric hospitalist at Randall Children’s Hospital in Portland, Oregon. “Hospital administrators aren’t at the bedside to see the problems and aren’t listening to providers’ solutions. We voted to unionize so the people caring for you can advocate for you and your family. We need a seat at the table to ensure we have the staff, tools and support we need to properly care for our patients.”WGAE Members at MSNBC Ratify First Union Contract: After more than two years of negotiations, Writers Guild of America, East (WGAE), members at MSNBC overwhelmingly ratified their first collective bargaining agreement on Tuesday. The nearly 300-member bargaining unit at MSNBC won a three-year contract that includes a minimum 3% pay increase every year for the next three years, a ratification bonus, guaranteed minimum severance for layoffs and other gains. “We are excited to say that we have ratified our first contract after 2 years of negotiations,” the union said in a statement. “We are proud to share that this contract addresses priority issues from our members like continued remote work flexibility, additional payment for performing extra work, night shift payment, and the right to turn down standby requests. The contract provides meaningful economic gains for our members.”Detroit Casino Council Members Ratify Historic New Contract with MGM Grand Detroit: Union members with the Detroit Casino Council voted overwhelmingly on Dec. 2 to ratify a new contract with MGM Grand Detroit after 47 days on strike. The five-year agreement covers 1,700 workers and includes the largest wage increases ever for MGM Grand Detroit workers, a bonus, no health care cost increases for employees, workload reductions, other job protections, first-ever technology contract language and more. The Detroit Casino Council includes UNITE HERE Local 24, UAW Local 7777, Operating Engineers (IUOE) Local 324, the Michigan Regional Council of Carpenters and Teamsters Local 1038. “Both my son and I have been on strike together, so for me the fight to protect our healthcare and win better wages was always about something bigger for my family and the next generation,” said Alicia Weaver, a guest room attendant for 24 years at MGM Grand Detroit and member of Local 24. “Together—with the rest of our MGM family who stood with us on that picket line in the rain and frigid temperatures—we made history, and I’m proud of what we accomplished by taking a stand together.”After Monthslong Strike, USW’s Nurses Win Safe Staffing at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital: United Steelworkers (USW) Local 4-200 and Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, New Jersey, reached a tentative contract agreement on Friday. Nurses have been on strike since Aug. 4. The union's 1,700 members must still vote to ratify the contract. “Safe staffing is essential to both patient care and reducing burnout among health care workers,” said Judy Danella, RN, president of Local 4-200. “This contract sets the necessary staffing ratios so that we can spend more time with each of our patients and keep ourselves safe on the job. This agreement was hard-fought, but our sacrifice ultimately paid off with a fair contract that addresses nurses’ most urgent concerns. The local bargaining committee unequivocally recommends ratification.” “This is a testament to the courageous leadership of these local unions and the solidarity of their members,” said New Jersey State AFL-CIO President Charles Wowkanech. “Also, the support for our sisters and brothers from every sector of our labor movement contributed to the victories of reaching collective bargaining agreements that will be voted on in the coming weeks. It’s been a long hard fight for all of these members, but thankfully, they were all eligible for unemployment insurance, which sustained many of them during the strike.”Solidarity Delivers! IBEW Local and Atlantic City Electric Reach Tentative Agreement: Members of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 210 reached a tentative agreement with Atlantic City Electric in New Jersey after a strike that began on Nov. 5. The contract still needs to be ratified by the workers. It includes pay increases, more vacation and holiday time, and a work-from-home option for some workers. In a statement, the IBEW said: “Late Friday evening IBEW local union 210 and Atlantic City Electric reached a tentative agreement. A ratification vote shall take place on Tuesday. The union is eager to get back to work, to once again provide the quality electric service the ratepayers of South Jersey deserve. I am proud of the solidarity that the members of 210 displayed during this entire process! It was truly inspirational to witness the support from the community and local businesses as we fought for a better future!”Experis Game Solutions Workers Win Vote to Organize with IAM: On Thursday, workers at Experis Game Solutions, a subsidiary of ManpowerGroup, voted to organize with the Machinists (IAM). The 42 test associates, software test engineers and data software analysts that form the new bargaining unit in Milwaukee will immediately begin preparing for contract negotiations. The workers are seeking to address low pay, burnout, a lack of job security and unaffordable health insurance, among other issues. “We could not be prouder of the forceful message Experis workers delivered to their employer yesterday: that they are ready to be compensated fairly for the skills and hard work they bring to their jobs every day,” said IAM District 10 Directing Business Representative Alex Hoekstra. “We welcome them into the IAM family and will have their backs at every step of the way as they negotiate their first contract. When 83% of workers agree that it’s time to bargain, it’s time to bargain.” Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 12/15/2023 - 11:35