Fighting for a Better Life: In the States Roundup
It's time once again to take a look at the ways working people are making progress in the states. Click on any of the links to follow the state federations on Twitter.
Alaska AFL-CIO:
Oh look, it's our birthday! 🎂🎈🎊 https://t.co/TcnncVVxzK
— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) December 5, 2022California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:
Huge congratulations to the workers at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences on this week’s voluntary recognition of their union!
They’re joining @AFSCMECouncil36, as part of the @cwuafscme Cultural Workers United campaign. https://t.co/iHTHri0070
Colorado AFL-CIO:
All of our love to the LGBTQ+ community this morning. Our hearts break for all those killed or injured at the hate inspired massacre at Club Q.
— Colorado AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOCO) November 20, 2022Georgia State AFL-CIO:
We’ve got your back @ReverendWarnock! Let’s bring this home Georgia! #1u pic.twitter.com/VnaCb0cT1y
— Georgia AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOGeorgia) December 3, 2022Illinois AFL-CIO:
It's a wrap! Veto session concluded late on Thursday.
Lawmakers and advocates came together from both sides of the aisle to fight for working Illinoisans.
The work isn't over yet, and we will be back at it for lame duck in January! pic.twitter.com/Oe9G10ZsyV
Indiana State AFL-CIO:
Incredible work by our union firefighters. https://t.co/4dWcXoDSwf
— Indiana AFL-CIO (@INAFLCIO) December 1, 2022Iowa Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO:
Labor History https://t.co/3cCzw6ZnrT
— Iowa AFL-CIO (@IowaAFLCIO) December 5, 2022Maine AFL-CIO:
Great article in @amjamboafrica about our Peer Workforce Navigator program to help job seekers apply for unemployment & connect them with union apprenticeships & well paying union jobs.https://t.co/6GgyaZP03Q
— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) December 5, 2022Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
It was an honor to be joined by President @JoeBiden at a Labor Phone Bank for @ReverendWarnock in #Dorchester, hosted by @IBEW103 with @MetroBTC, @GBLCBoston, @ewarren, @EdMarkey. Our most pro-union President ever knows that when the Middle Class has a chance, we all do. #mapoli pic.twitter.com/ExO52lwz0l
— Massachusetts AFL-CIO // Build Back Better (@massaflcio) December 2, 2022Minnesota AFL-CIO:
One week left to reach a deal before Minnesota nurses' strike https://t.co/iQWKImSd0d #1u @mnnurses
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) December 5, 2022Missouri AFL-CIO:
"District Council 58 currently has 4,200 members, and it continues to grow stronger and attract more employees into its fold." #1u https://t.co/Q2KAWAKuSX
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) December 5, 2022New Hampshire AFL-CIO:
Fiscal Comm. considers $40 million in federal funds thanks to our congressional delegation and Pres. Biden. Elections & advocacy matter! @AFTNewHampshire @AFSCME93 @SEIU1984 @NHNEAPrez @UAW2322 @PFFNH @Local_789 @NTULocal1044 @AFTunion @AAUP @AaupUnh @Ibew2320nh @Ibew490 @APWU pic.twitter.com/f4ZwakWUiM
— New Hampshire AFL-CIO (@NHAFLCIO) December 2, 2022New Jersey State AFL-CIO:
Join our sisters and brothers, the faculty and staff of Rutgers university, together with university students, as we rally to send a message to the administration and Board of Governors that we want fair union contracts now! pic.twitter.com/3zO9TWMCER
— New Jersey AFL-CIO (@NJAFLCIO) December 5, 2022New York State AFL-CIO:
Congrats to @RepJeffries, the incoming Democratic leader of the House of Representatives. Full statement from NYS AFL-CIO President Mario Cilento: https://t.co/SWk2vqGNva pic.twitter.com/vsxoFFcPk3
— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) November 30, 2022North Carolina State AFL-CIO:
Faced with the choice to organize the South or die, unions like National Nurses United have chosen to fight for a better life. #1u https://t.co/nS4eFHvQWy
— NC State AFL-CIO // #CountMeIn (@NCStateAFLCIO) December 2, 2022Ohio AFL-CIO:
Tomorrow, Georgia voters head to the polls. We want to thank #Ohio @AFLCIO staffer and former @TheIronworkers Jessica Risenburg for helping lead member-to-member local union mail and worksite mobilization. She left her family to help get this done for @ReverendWarnock! pic.twitter.com/bcuqeWJzXY
— 🇺🇦 Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) December 5, 2022Oregon AFL-CIO:
Amazon ordered to cease and desist from retaliating against workplace activists: https://t.co/yOtDF4pOBU #1u #UnionStrong #OregonLabor
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) November 28, 2022Rhode Island AFL-CIO:
Read this week's E-News--->https://t.co/hTCw3JM7sP @JoeShekarchi @GoIUPAT #1U #Unions #UnionStrong #Solidarity pic.twitter.com/3qSVoRroq0
— Rhode Island AFL-CIO (@riaflcio) December 1, 2022Texas AFL-CIO:
We are with CWA in this big moment... https://t.co/U9YpiHZVPT
— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) December 5, 2022Virginia AFL-CIO:
We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of labor champion @Donald_McEachin. He was a long time fighter for working people and represented working Virginians and our families well. @RepMcEachin will truly be missed. (1/2) https://t.co/1PWa5cdlu0
— Virginia AFL-CIO (@Virginia_AFLCIO) November 29, 2022Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:
TAKE ACTION: Send an email welcoming 18 new state legislators and urge them to support bills that make Washington’s ultra-wealthy pay their fair share. We need tax fairness NOW to invest in public education, transportation & accessible health care! https://t.co/VzGKHypIl1 #WAleg pic.twitter.com/jbSwbWm34J
— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) December 2, 2022Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
Vote for 8th Senate District to be held on April spring election https://t.co/LAiOcsAoeA via @madisondotcom
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) December 5, 2022 Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 12/05/2022 - 16:44Service + Solidarity Spotlight: AGMA Unveils Ballet Organizing Campaigns in Memphis and Fort Worth
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service + Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
The American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA) announced this week that it is moving ahead with two new organizing campaigns at ballet companies based in the South. The wave of artists organizing across the country continues as the dancers of Texas Ballet Theater in Fort Worth and Ballet Memphis have signed authorization cards to form their unions with AGMA.
Both dancer groups sent letters to the management of their companies. The dancers at Ballet Memphis declared: “We believe in the future of this company. Our unionization will foster a stronger and more cohesive workplace culture and boost the company’s standing within the dance community.”
The dancers at Texas Ballet Theater stated: “This decision was made after extensive discussion, research, and careful consideration about the best steps to ensure the success of TBT and its current and future dancers.”
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 12/05/2022 - 09:45Service + Solidarity Spotlight: MLBPA’s Playmakers Classic Raises Funds for Charitable Initiatives
🎥 Now Playing: The Playmakers Classic presented by @fanatics! pic.twitter.com/LBGF0RznFJ
— MLB Players Trust (@MLBPlayersTrust) November 30, 2022Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service + Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Whether they’re on or off the field, members of the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) are always driven to make positive change. Earlier this week, the union hosted its inaugural Playmakers Classic fundraising event to support the charitable arm of the MLBPA. The MLB Players Trust helps a wide range of charitable initiatives, including youth development and disaster relief.
“Suffice to say, having all the players together and having an opportunity to raise money for the Players Trust…is something that I’m excited about and looking forward to doing,” MLBPA Executive Director Tony Clark (pictured above, left) said at the event.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 12/02/2022 - 09:37Stand with Railroad Workers: 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:
Check out this week's Equity Weekly:
🔵 RSVP for your Regional Membership Meeting
🔵 We're Hiring Audition Monitors
🔵 Audition Town Hall Video
🔵 New Agreement with Paramount Theatre
🔵 and more!
Read more in the member portal today - https://t.co/HXXjTmFQmZ pic.twitter.com/GRndR83hBG
AFGE:
Find out more about what's being done to improve customer service and reduce delays at the Social Security Administration→ https://t.co/6fP76lhKtx
— AFGE (@AFGENational) December 1, 2022AFSCME:
President Saunders: “@RepJeffries, @RepKClark, @RepPeteAguilar and @WhipClyburn are four proven labor champions in Congress. Together in leadership, they will be a force for working people across the country.” https://t.co/L1qeMLYHxC
— AFSCME (@AFSCME) November 30, 2022Alliance for Retired Americans:
Scammers are on the prowl, but there are ways to shut them down. Here are some computer security tips from @AAgencyonaging and @NCOAging https://t.co/Ab5WzU2IaL
— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) December 1, 2022Amalgamated Transit Union:
Our Local 508-Halifax, NS, is in the holiday spirit with their Stuff A Bus charity drive to collect toys, food, and other donations for families in need in their community. #ATUStrongerTogether #stuffthebus pic.twitter.com/tt3oohAWNT
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) December 1, 2022American Federation of Teachers:
What's really dangerous is disrespecting and diminishing the work of educators, school support staff, healthcare workers, public employees, higher ed faculty, and graduate workers.
We don't need scapegoating. We need solutions. pic.twitter.com/bOT6sapSFn
American Postal Workers Union:
What are you thankful for? #Thanksgiving pic.twitter.com/s5W83N1rPj
— The American Postal Workers Union - APWU (@APWUnational) November 24, 2022Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance:
A wonderful evening hosting the APALA National Executive Board and supporting the UAW academic workers strike against unfair labor practices in the University of California system! pic.twitter.com/VyrNnGSrfG
— APALA LA Chapter (@APALALosAngeles) November 21, 2022Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:
Flight Attendants stand with Railroad Workers. Their fight is our fight! As it stands, rail workers do not have a single day of guaranteed paid sick leave.
📱📱 Call 202-224-3121 to demand your Senators vote FOR seven days guaranteed paid sick days for railroad workers! pic.twitter.com/ZZgWpkj7dY
Boilermakers:
ICYMI: Industrial Sector Operations #Boilermakers met for the ISO Conference in Las Vegas this July, where members heard from leaders from the industrial, metal trades and railroad sectors. Read more: https://t.co/2eyBPMDz5O#BoilermakersUnion #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/SmpDDNEjuM
— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) December 1, 2022Bricklayers:
Got 10 minutes? Help NIOSH understand they ways construction workers manage pain. The survey is voluntary, and your information will not be shared with your employers or coworkers. https://t.co/7WQP5Y4cPv
— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) November 29, 2022Coalition of Black Trade Unionists:
Sen. Raphael Warnock fires up voters at a Souls to the Polls rally in Atlanta on Sunday. With every vote at stake and the stakes so high, the message was simple: TURNOUT! TURNOUT! TURNOUT! #GA #Runoff #GeorgiaRunoff pic.twitter.com/Xe17HZSvoG
— CBTU (@CBTU72) November 28, 2022Coalition of Labor Union Women:
Sister Donna Brockington was active with CLUW for many years and a dedicated and passionate leader of our Metro DC chapter. pic.twitter.com/ivR3fpPVro
— CLUW National (@CLUWNational) November 20, 2022Communications Workers of America:
CWA members in Georgia are working hard to get out the vote for Senator Raphael Warnock ahead of the December 6 runoff election! pic.twitter.com/PzDewnEnkM
— CWA (@CWAUnion) December 1, 2022Department for Professional Employees:
Join us in telling Congress to pass the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act: https://t.co/3OIAYFybs0 pic.twitter.com/jLxuWpNd6I
— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) November 30, 2022Electrical Workers:
Just six days left #Georgia! #LetsWinThis #Warnock #IBEW pic.twitter.com/KNMRiHQgEW
— IBEW (@IBEW) December 1, 2022Heat and Frost Insulators:
What a view! On the job at a Coal Fired Power Plant in West Virginia with members of Local 2, Pittsburgh. pic.twitter.com/CjCAtjGCqC
— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) December 1, 2022International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers:
IFPTE Stands in SOLIDARITY with AFT President Randi Weingarten #1u https://t.co/5a8UIthJ6e
— IFPTE (@IFPTE) November 23, 2022International Labor Communications Association:
This #MemberMonday we’re spotlighting @PASSNational! The Professional Aviation Safety Specialists represents more than 11,000 employees of the FAA and Department of Defense who install, maintain, support and certify air traffic control and national defense equipment. pic.twitter.com/0UUvqqidiX
— International Labor Communications Association (@ILCAonline) November 28, 2022Ironworkers:
Today @ironworkers25 signed an articulation agreement with @OCCollege. This is the beginning of a great relationship! #Opportunities #students #apprentices #college #apprenticeships #Careers #welding #construction #MotivationMonday #skilledtrades #earnwhileyoulearn pic.twitter.com/Wb60oN0IHJ
— Ironworkers Local 25 (@Ironworkers25) November 28, 2022Jobs With Justice:
Help support Jobs With Justice this #GivingTuesday and your contribution will help those facing retaliation for organizing their workplaces.
Every donation of $75 or more receives an awesome JWJ X Starbucks Workers United travel mug!!
Donate today! 👇🏾https://t.co/DRU2aa8SpX pic.twitter.com/D67HRamcA5
Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:
Are you ready to become a U.S citizen? Join @CFLCLAA for their final Free Citizenship Clinic of the year this Saturday, December 10! Call or text (689) 210-8790 to schedule an appointment. pic.twitter.com/RDXLBImBPw
— LCLAA (@LCLAA) December 1, 2022Laborers:
Today was a big win for workers! Just a few short hours ago the - the Ontario Superior Court of Justice has struck down #Bill124. The legislation that imposed a 1% wage cap on public sector employees. #Onpoli #OnLab
— LiUNA! Local 3000 (@LiUNA3000) November 29, 2022Machinists:
Our union has called on @POTUS to adequately fund the F-35 defense program, for the best interest of our national security and for the American workers it supports.
Read our letter to the President ⬇️⚙️💪 https://t.co/IT4d4NjQJn
Metal Trades Department:
“Workers should be able to take for granted that they can stay home and take care of themselves if they’re sick,” #WorkersFirsthttps://t.co/5e9J72idAc
— Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) December 1, 2022Mine Workers:
The UMWA Women's Auxiliary will be hosting a Santa Brunch on December 17th! The Alabama Auxiliary has been essential in providing much-needed supplies and has been amazing at building moral during this strike. Shout out to all the women stepping up to make this possible! pic.twitter.com/WEjm7R2Rox
— United Mine Workers (@MineWorkers) December 1, 2022Musical Artists:
Dancers of Texas Ballet Theater Take Steps to Unionize: https://t.co/8kBvwQhFnp pic.twitter.com/GNJvTLvmOy
— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) November 30, 2022National Air Traffic Controllers Association:
Every year, NATCA offers a scholarship program for spouses, children, stepchildren, and legally adopted children of NATCA members. McKenzie Farrell, child of Donald Farrell (Chicago Center, ZAU) is among this year’s winners. https://t.co/0rx75ttYul pic.twitter.com/zOEPqScZsy
— NATCA (@NATCA) December 1, 2022National Association of Letter Carriers:
The December issue of The Postal Record is now available online! Don't miss NALC President Fredric Rolando's final President's Message, a retrospective article on his tenure as president, stories of letter carriers giving back this holiday season and more. https://t.co/XgNspwh3Ii pic.twitter.com/jSJ4lxJzJl
— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) December 1, 2022National Day Laborer Organizing Network:
Pledge your support to #NDLON this #GivingTuesday by making a donation. Your donation ensures the sustainability of our work such as our Arts and Culture Programming.
Stand in Solidarity with us and make a donation: https://t.co/uNFDWdijKx#Immigration #ImmigrantRights pic.twitter.com/ERTe1Xl0nU
National Domestic Workers Alliance:
This #GivingTuesday, join the Care Revolution.
Donate below to make a difference in the lives of domestic workers across the country ⤵️https://t.co/zG5OehXeVn pic.twitter.com/5EsW0D9Tw6
National Nurses United:
We work day and night to care for our patients at great risk, especially now with Covid, the flu, and RSV.
Health care systems must listen to @nynurses and guarantee #SafeStaffing, safe working conditions, and work to recruit & retain experienced RNs. https://t.co/c7bIlHdLMM
National Taxi Workers Alliance:
Check out this whole great thread from our siblings at @VendorPower https://t.co/4HyGNVKRRc
— NY Taxi Workers (@NYTWA) November 26, 2022NWSL Players Association:
Well deserved! 👏 https://t.co/1u8ieNYIVu
— NWSLPA (@nwsl_players) November 30, 2022NFL Players Association:
Congratulations are in order to @gkittle46 + @jalenramsey for being named to the @ForbesUnder30 list this year 👏
Both players are active with endeavors off the field–Kittle has a deep endorsement portfolio and Jalen is an avid investor. https://t.co/gL4bcO4sc5 #ForbesUnder30 pic.twitter.com/mckYycaGZZ
North America's Building Trades Unions:
“This program gave me hope for my future… I have something I’ve never had: a path to self-sufficiency."
Registered Apprenticeships are an earn-while-you-learn ladder to a family-sustaining middle class career 💪https://t.co/rcAGICunf4
Office and Professional Employees:
Congress has the power to pass the #PregnantWorkersFairnessAct and require employers to make reasonable accommodations for workers with pregnancy-related limitations.
Take a moment to tell your senators to support this important piece of legislation ⏩️ https://t.co/0xkcFu4718 pic.twitter.com/5FNf2NpvBt
Painters and Allied Trades:
When our union was first founded, many painters died from the trade due to lead poisoning known as painter's colic.
Because of our union's efforts to ensure safety and regulation in our trades, lead-based paint was finally banned and tens of thousands of lives have been saved. pic.twitter.com/CvlGk563Di
Plasterers and Cement Masons:
#OPCMIA General President Daniel E. Stepano has released a holiday season video wishing all members well, announcing his January 31st retirement, and reflecting on his time as this great union’s top officer. Please watch here:https://t.co/tYhPKN6RP5
— OPCMIA International (@opcmiaintl) November 29, 2022Pride At Work:
Last week, the Marriage Protection Act was advanced for a final vote in the Senate. Contact your Senators at (202) 224-3121 and ask them to vote to codify marriage equality into law!#LoveWins#RepealDOMA#MarriageEquality
— Pride at Work (@PrideatWork) November 28, 2022Professional Aviation Safety Specialists:
PASS members @flymemphis are among the many dedicated public servants at the FAA who keep this economy moving, support @FedExPilots & get millions of packages in the air. Thanks @SecretaryPete for your support and for joining us yesterday! #aviationsafety #publicservice https://t.co/HwCCgAjQkW
— PASS (@PASSNational) November 30, 2022Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:
The @RWDSU Southeast Council is out in Camilla, GA today with @ReverendWarnock for a meet and greet! Early voting is already underway in GA for the Senate Runoffs; let's get out the vote for our brother Raphael Warnock! Find your pollsite: https://t.co/m447h1BS3e pic.twitter.com/CxIbDEAHgY
— RWDSU (@RWDSU) November 30, 2022Roofers 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/SS3wZ2YgbS #roofersafety365 pic.twitter.com/iiNqQPS7xz
— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) November 30, 2022SAG-AFTRA:
Today we honor the lives lost to HIV and AIDS related complications and celebrate the millions living with HIV and continuing to thrive. We thank our #sagaftramembers for their dedication and efforts in raising funds and awareness to combat HIV/AIDS. #WorldAIDSDay pic.twitter.com/KO80tJfm5x
— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) December 1, 2022School Administrators:
Check out the @KeepitMadeinUSA holiday Gift Guide, featuring 120+ companies from all 50 states, D.C., and Puerto Rico that make their products in the United States! #MadeinUSAGifts #MadeinAmericahttps://t.co/LfzOy4AQ5b
— The School Leader (@AFSAUnion) November 29, 2022Seafarers:
#1u #ITF @ITFglobalunion pic.twitter.com/gRqkL9mr34
— Seafarers Union (@SeafarersUnion) November 28, 2022Solidarity Center:
As the #16Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign gets underway, #women #tradeunionists worldwide are building on their momentum to end sexual harassment and gender violence at the workplace. #GBVH #RatifyC190https://t.co/dKhzpcAUPN
— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) December 1, 2022The NewsGuild-CWA:
"Local news is being murdered by firms like Gannett. The path to a viable future for Gannett is not austerity." @gaufre
"We’re fighting for our families, for our neighbors, and our right to news and information that is central to our lives." @susandecaravahttps://t.co/lpR1ig33Ez
Theatrical Stage Employees:
Last but certainly not least, meet our final #NationalNativeAmericanHeritageMonth member spotlight, Eric Moore. Thanks Eric, for being a proud member of our union family for 25 years! #1u pic.twitter.com/BV6hlZx1FM
— IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) November 30, 2022Transport Workers Union:
.@NewYorkStateAG Letitia James surprised the TWU Working Women's Committee meeting, where she encouraged women to take leadership roles, run for office, and get involved in their union. cc @TWULocal100 @CentralLaborNYC @TwuSamuelsen pic.twitter.com/AnU6hcpc8Y
— TWU (@transportworker) December 1, 2022Transportation Trades Department:
In this house, we support rail workers.
Do your Senators? Call them at 202-224-3121 and tell them to support rail workers by voting YES on seven days of paid sick leave.
Speak up! ✊ pic.twitter.com/mwQsgx4otM
UAW:
“Our members stood up for improved wages and working conditions that truly reflect their value to the University of California system,” says UAW President Ray Curry. https://t.co/G6sIDscTjc #1u
— UAW (@UAW) November 30, 2022Union Veterans Council:
Statement by Union Veterans Council Executive Director Will Attig On Current Rail Worker Labor Negotiations
Veterans serve as an integral part of the US railroad workforce– approximately 20-25% of all rail workers are #Veterans. #1U https://t.co/9EU7P5KIId
UNITE HERE:
This Giving Tuesday, make a donation in support of working people who are on the ground fighting for democracy in Georgia! ✊🏽✊🏿✊🏻 #givingtuesday2022 #workerstothefronthttps://t.co/PpNIggf7Lv pic.twitter.com/z3fdKic11A
— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) November 29, 2022United Food and Commercial Workers:
A Native woman must work until today, November 30, in order to make the same amount made by a white man in 2021.
Learn more about how pay inequality impacts women: https://t.co/mTZktYGNhR#GenderPayGap #PayEquality pic.twitter.com/uVCTA7Uzz6
United Steelworkers:
When you shop this holiday season, look for the Made in the USA label! Our friends at @KeepitMadeinUSA have this handy gift guide: https://t.co/RiEyVZWLTN #USWMade #1u pic.twitter.com/0v6jxqGLaG
— United Steelworkers #EverybodysUnion (@steelworkers) December 1, 2022Utility Workers:
“The system hasn’t been stressed in this manner in the past, and probably more importantly, it hasn’t been as widespread.” - John Moura, NERC’s director of reliability assessment and system performance analysishttps://t.co/q6V5l31Ghl
— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) December 1, 2022Working America:
Giving a special thanks to all the farm workers, grocery store clerks, public transit drivers, airline/airport workers, and so many others who make the holiday season possible for all of us! #1u https://t.co/z4DtW4F4ti
— Working America | GO VOTE (@WorkingAmerica) November 24, 2022Writers Guild of America, East:
"Most people can’t afford to just give up a job when they are faced with a threat like that. I don’t care how nicely a boss asks you, when a ‘choice’ comes from higher up, it is mired in some fear." https://t.co/N0O1wqXJza
— Writers Guild of America, East (@WGAEast) December 1, 2022 Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 12/01/2022 - 16:42Service + Solidarity Spotlight: NFLPA Members Lend a Helping Hand for Thanksgiving
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service + Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Members of the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) make a point to pour back into their communities, and that’s especially true during Thanksgiving. The union put together an extensive list to give just a sample of the many unique ways current NFL players spread the holiday spirit to families in their hometowns and team cities. The list includes Jonathan Jones (pictured above), the Week 12 NFLPA Community MVP, who hosted a tailgate in his college town of Auburn, Alabama, that raised enough funds to feed 450 families suffering from food insecurity.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 12/01/2022 - 09:42Take Action: Protect Pregnant Workers
Too many employers discriminate and retaliate against pregnant workers when they ask for necessary workplace accommodations so they can continue to work and have a healthy pregnancy. The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act would change that. Take two minutes to send a letter to your senators asking them to support pregnant workers.
The PWFA would create a clear standard requiring employers to engage with workers and provide reasonable accommodations to workers with pregnancy-related limitations.
The accommodations can include:
- More frequent breaks
- Flexibility in schedule for doctor appointments
- Reassigning tasks that include heavy lifting
PWFA has bipartisan support in both the U.S. Senate and House, and is endorsed by organizations and groups across the political spectrum.
The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act will allow pregnant people to remain on the job to support their families without risking their health or the health of their baby.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 11/30/2022 - 15:10Take Action: Give Our Demands to Broadway
Sign the pledge to tell The Broadway League that you support the actors and stage managers. And as an audience member, you will respect any job action it may take!
Actors’ Equity Association has been bargaining with The Broadway League since September on the contract governing Broadway and sit-down productions.
It’s not an easy process—but the negotiating team is focused on doing everything it can to ensure the actors and stage managers of Broadway get appropriate levels of coverage, more humane schedules and safer workplaces.
As audience members, we must be ready to support these workers in whatever they need to do to get the contract they deserve.
And we need to respect any job action they may take in support of creating a theater industry that can be as empowering and inspiring for its workers as it is for those of us in the audience.
Sign the pledge to say you support the Broadway actors and stage managers.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 11/30/2022 - 09:57Service + Solidarity Spotlight: IBEW Goes All-In for Georgia’s Runoff Election
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service + Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
The Electrical Workers (IBEW) union is executing a key element of the labor movement’s political organizing program in Georgia by holding worksite visits focused on the issues and the candidates who will fight for working families. Sen. Raphael Warnock, who is endorsed by unions, is running a strong runoff campaign in the Peach State, and his win would provide a key vote for our pro-labor agenda in the Senate.
IBEW leaders and volunteers visited hundreds of members of IBEW Local 613 working at the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and QTS Data Centers last week. There are plans to hold additional worksite visits this week at Facebook and several manufacturing plants.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 11/30/2022 - 09:46Solidarity Brewing: In the States Roundup
It's time once again to take a look at the ways working people are making progress in the states. Click on any of the links to follow the state federations on Twitter.
Alaska AFL-CIO:
Crossing a picket line undermines the collective power of all workers.
Incredible showing of solidarity from the faculty of the UC system! ✊ #1u https://t.co/KlFzHDuZxl
California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:
SOLIDARITY BREWING: Two Peet’s Coffee locations in Davis, CA send signed union cards to the NLRB.
“I got the highest mark you can get and that raise was 50 cents. With inflation, that’s less money than I made last year. It radicalized me.”https://t.co/hUuU2a9CBR
Colorado AFL-CIO:
TONIGHT: Special labor music episode on the Labor Exchange (11/28) listen on KGNU 6:00 pm 88.5 FM 1390 Denver/Boulder https://t.co/fuXuspLb93 #1u #solidarity pic.twitter.com/Rs73F5hQPz
— Colorado AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOCO) November 28, 2022Connecticut AFL-CIO:
Affiliates of the CT Building Trades provide 17 joint apprenticeship training programs to allow workers a pathway to career and financial stability. Union apprenticeships are paid, and graduates finish their programs without any debt. @NABTU https://t.co/gv5i8B5YvG
— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) November 21, 2022Georgia State AFL-CIO:
🔥 Sen. Warnock is a true champion of our movement who works with the interest of our working families in mind.
We're all in to re-elect him to the Senate—but we can't do it alone. Do YOU have a plan to vote?
Make one now: https://t.co/MIAxuAdUNY pic.twitter.com/1uxBr5rKRx
Illinois AFL-CIO:
Traveling for the holidays? Make sure to thank a union member.
Flight attendants to baggage handlers to concession workers - they are there for you when you're on the go.
Whether you're staying home or heading out, here are some travel tips:https://t.co/oK7accSIZo
Indiana State AFL-CIO:
Only 36% of newly organized units reach a collective bargaining agreement within one year, and only 58% after two years.
Some employers drag out the bargaining process by stalling. We must pass the PRO Act to help protect workers in this situation. https://t.co/Nepepwinga
Iowa Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO:
OPINION: Working people key in driving midterm wins — and we’re just getting started https://t.co/0qeZaQHdxv
— Iowa AFL-CIO (@IowaAFLCIO) November 29, 2022Maine AFL-CIO:
There will be a “sip-in” to support workers who are holding a union vote at Little Dog coffee shop in Brunswick from 11am to 3pm on Wed., Nov. 30. If you’re in the neighborhood stop by & show some support! https://t.co/MIrFQ6ceFq
— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) November 26, 2022Maryland State and D.C. AFL-CIO:
Congratulations to #LaborEndorsed candidate, @GarySim13775417 for his victory in the district 12B Delegate race! #VoteUnion pic.twitter.com/HpS4ZzUU6n
— Maryland State and DC AFL-CIO (@MDDCStateFed) November 19, 2022Michigan State AFL-CIO:
Support the labor movement, buy union ✊✊ https://t.co/AAl8bAX5aV pic.twitter.com/WbOXHRaVCI
— Michigan AFL-CIO ✊ (@MIAFLCIO) November 23, 2022Minnesota AFL-CIO:
#Labor2022 was a member to member voter mobilization program independent of any party or candidate. Union volunteers knocked on 62,000 doors! #1u #mnleg #mngov pic.twitter.com/f2U7ovBF4N
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) November 22, 2022Missouri AFL-CIO:
Yup. #1u pic.twitter.com/9eHHoJ047i
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) November 28, 2022Nevada State AFL-CIO:
Congratulations to @NVSenateDems & Senate Majority Leader @Nicole4Nevada on your incredible leadership! #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/DM7wNO7r0R
— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) November 16, 2022New Hampshire AFL-CIO:
Education day at the Gov. Budget Comm. w/numbers from Universities, Community Colleges, & Dept. of Ed. (pictured: Caitlin Davis & Tammy Vaillancourt - NH ed.) @AFTNewHampshire @AFSCME93 @SEIU1984 @NHNEAPrez @UAW2322 @PFFNH @Local_789 @NTULocal1044 @AFTunion @AAUP @AaupUnh @APWU pic.twitter.com/7xvIomXRGw
— New Hampshire AFL-CIO (@NHAFLCIO) November 29, 2022New York State AFL-CIO:
Happy Thanksgiving! pic.twitter.com/xLjEV6kmC9
— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) November 24, 2022Ohio AFL-CIO:
Want to help re-elect @ReverendWarnock? Shoot us a DM and we can get you hooked up to a phone bank to call fellow @AFLCIO #union members in Georgia about getting out the vote! https://t.co/ZvFZmHP9Oy
— 🇺🇦 Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) November 28, 2022Oregon AFL-CIO:
Amazon ordered to cease and desist from retaliating against workplace activists: https://t.co/yOtDF4pOBU #1u #UnionStrong #OregonLabor
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) November 28, 2022Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:
Congratulations to our president, Angela Ferritto, who has been named to the transition leadership board for Josh Shapiro and Austin Davis. #1u #powertothepeople #UnionStrong #UnionProud https://t.co/NWl198GBMy
— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) November 23, 2022Rhode Island AFL-CIO:
Thank you Speaker @JoeShekarchi and Senate President @SenatorRuggerio for joining our executive board meeting today.
We appreciate you taking the time to speak with us and we look forward to our continued work fighting for working people https://t.co/WACbBRKvrF
Texas AFL-CIO:
“The Fort Worth NewsGuild is dedicated to fair conditions for Star-Telegram employees. No amount of union busting will change that,”: @FortWorthGuild We stand in solidarity with the journalists at the Star-Telegram. #1uhttps://t.co/aO1LpMIXIk
— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) November 29, 2022Virginia AFL-CIO:
We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of labor champion @Donald_McEachin. He was a long time fighter for working people and represented working Virginians and our families well. @RepMcEachin will truly be missed. (1/2) https://t.co/1PWa5cdlu0
— Virginia AFL-CIO (@Virginia_AFLCIO) November 29, 2022Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
#WeRollTogether 🎲 Support organizing workers at Noble Knight Games. Let workers know #WeRollTogether when you come in to the store, in the Order Notes at online checkout and on social media. @CWAunion @NkgUnited #1u #WIunion pic.twitter.com/c9dsSwOcxM
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) November 23, 2022 Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 11/29/2022 - 13:09Service + Solidarity Spotlight: On Black Friday, Workers Around the World Demand That We ‘Make Amazon Pay’
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service + Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
On Black Friday, workers around the world demanded that Amazon be held accountable for its unacceptable labor practices. During the busiest days of the holiday shopping season, the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union-UFCW (RWDSU-UFCW) bolstered more than a dozen actions in cities across the United States, including Bessemer, Alabama, and New York City, which were part of the global “Make Amazon Pay” effort. More than 80 labor unions, and allies in 32 countries around the world, held strikes and protests to Make Amazon Pay for its terrible working conditions, and its impact on the planet and local communities.
“No matter where Amazon operates anywhere in the world, the conditions and the existential threat are the same, and that’s why workers everywhere are standing up and demonstrating and striking today,” RWDSU-UFCW President Stuart Appelbaum (not pictured) said on Friday. “We need to let the world know that Amazon needs to change.”
Workers at the Amazon facility in Bessemer, who were the first to file for a warehouse-wide union election in the U.S., were joined by their Mine Workers (UMWA) union brothers, sisters and siblings still on strike at Warrior Met Coal.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 11/29/2022 - 09:55Tags: Amazon
Never Bet Against Workers: 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.
Apprenticeships Provide Skills for Longterm Employment: “Last week, the Oklahoma Institute for Child Advocacy hopefully connected two organizations that will both benefit from a tremendous opportunity to provide jobs for young people. Earlier this year, I had the pleasure of visiting with Jimmy Curry, the Oklahoma president for the AFL-CIO. We were discussing both our jobs at a backyard cookout held by one of our mutual friends in south Oklahoma City and I asked him what programs are in the labor movement that support young people. My father was a member of the Operating Engineers while working as a building contractor, so I knew personally the benefits one receives in a career through a trades union, but wanted to know if there were other things available. Jimmy pointed out an opportunity for high school students to learn a profession through CareerTech classes, which could lead to an apprenticeship through a labor association that would provide a job. For those not familiar with an apprenticeship, this is a pathway to learn a skilled trade through planned, supervised, on-the-job training and related classroom instruction. An apprentice is a regular part of the workforce and earns wages while acquiring important skills. The length of the tuition-free apprenticeship ranges from three to five years.”
Right to Work Isn't Working for Michigan: “Michigan Democrats scored historic victories in the midterm elections, taking control of the state House, Senate, and the governor’s mansion for the first time since 1983. The wins were thanks, at least in part, to the Democrats’ pro-worker, pro-jobs agenda. Now it’s time for Democrats to show that their pro-worker agenda isn’t just talk. One good way to do that would be for the legislature, as a first order of business, to repeal Michigan’s decade-old right-to-work law. By getting rid of a law that weakened Michigan’s labor unions, Democratic lawmakers would make a powerful statement that they are ready and eager to help workers win higher wages and better benefits.”
A Union Yes Vote Changed My Life: “It’s a special thing to get to vote in a union representation election. You’re lucky if it happens once in your life, as it did for me in 1984 when I voted for what would become Local 34, the clerical and technical workers’ union at Yale. That vote changed my life, and that union made me who I am. I want to share some of that experience for the members of Local 33, so they can reflect on what this moment means for them.”
Growing Number of Professional Workers Support Unions: “In a survey six years ago, 56% of health care workers said they would support a union at work. Then came COVID. The latest: Now, 71% of these workers said they'd support such efforts, according to a survey of more than 1,800 nonunionized professional workers conducted in August and released this week from the AFL-CIO, the U.S. labor federation. Why it matters: Union popularity is at a 57-year-high in the U.S.—but here's a sign that organizing is increasingly viewed positively among a set of workers that's historically been less likely to organize. Less than half of union members in the U.S. are professionals. By the numbers: Support for unionizing rose to 65% from 60% among all professionals, defined as those with at least an associate's degree who hold a job where a degree is required.”
Never Bet Against Workers: “For the better part of this year, the Oregon labor movement planned and implemented a robust, targeted grassroots campaign that relied on the most powerful tactic: conversations between union members about the issues that matter. We know that the best way to break through the noise is to reach workers where they are at. The national AFL-CIO took the same approach in battleground states and districts facing the most hotly contested races. In every state and in every major region, AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler focused on deepening the labor movement’s investment in year-round organizing and bringing voter discussions back to basic economics. We in the labor movement often say during election campaigns that there is a key factor that polls simply can’t predict: a people-powered field program meeting likely voters where they are at.”
Student Loan Borrowers Who Applied for Biden's Debt Relief Shouldn't Have to Worry About Living with 'Crushing Student Loan Debt: “‘The AFL-CIO is extremely disappointed in the partisan legal effort to shut down the Biden administration's life-changing student loan relief. Borrowers who have filed for forgiveness should not have to wonder if they will once again be forced to live with crushing student loan debt as a result of a court challenge,’ AFL-CIO director of government affairs Bill Samuel said in a statement. ‘With the payment pause end date of Dec. 31 rapidly approaching, the AFL-CIO will continue to advocate for the full implementation of the Biden administration's student loan debt cancellation plan.’”
AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler: The Labor Transformation at CNBC Work Summit: “Whether it’s video game developers, or minor league baseball players who just joined the AFL-CIO, graduate researchers at the University of California—the workplace is the workplace no matter what kind of work you do, and it’s working people coming together, having that conversation that forms a union. And businesses don’t need to be afraid of that.”
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 11/29/2022 - 08:38National Native American Heritage Month Profiles: Irene Gonzalez
Throughout National Native American Heritage Month, the AFL-CIO will be profiling leaders and activists to spotlight the diverse contributions Native Americans have made to the labor movement and toward expanding the rights of working people. Today's profile features Irene Gonzalez of AFSCME.
Irene Gonzalez, vice president with the Los Angeles County Deputy Probation Officers’ Union, AFSCME Local 685, is a proud member of the Picayune Rancheria of the Chukchansi Indians, a federally recognized tribe of Indigenous people of California. Gonzalez grew up in the San Joaquin Valley area of California, shuttling between foster homes in Tulare, Visalia and Atwater, and has committed her life to restorative justice and union activism.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 11/28/2022 - 14:51Service + Solidarity Spotlight: Labor Movement Strongly Condemns Mike Pompeo’s Disgusting Assault on America’s Educators
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service + Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Statement from AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler on Mike Pompeo’s shameful attack on teachers:
Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo’s characterization of the heroic work America’s teachers do every day as “filth” was a hurtful assault on all those who work tirelessly to provide our children with the education they so richly deserve. America’s labor movement strongly and forcefully condemns Pompeo’s dangerous remarks that were clearly meant to incite, creating risk for teachers and their families.
Teachers and school staff deserve praise and gratitude from our nation’s leaders. With Pompeo’s toxic, hurtful rhetoric aimed at educators and their advocates, it’s a stark reminder of just how far extremists will go to diminish and disrespect hard-working teachers just to score cheap political points. Make no mistake—when Pompeo called American Federation of Teachers (AFT) President Randi Weingarten, the union’s elected leader, “the most dangerous person in the world,” he attacked all working people who work every day to build America’s future.
Dangerous rhetoric such as Pompeo’s attack on teachers has no place in our political discourse. The American labor movement stands in solidarity with AFT President Weingarten, all parents and every educator in this country who works day and night to provide every opportunity for children to learn and who inspires them to follow their dreams.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 11/28/2022 - 09:55National Native American Heritage Month Profiles: Laurita Curley
Throughout National Native American Heritage Month, the AFL-CIO will be profiling leaders and activists to spotlight the diverse contributions Native Americans have made to the labor movement and toward expanding the rights of working people. Today's profile features Laurita Curley, an airway transportation system specialist at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and member of the Professional Aviation Safety Specialists (PASS).
Laurita Curley began her career at the FAA as an intern in 2001 and currently works as a radar/communications technician in Albuquerque, New Mexico. She has been a PASS member for 20 years. A member of the FAA’s Native American Alaska Native Coalition, Curley participates in STEM career fairs that cater to students who are Native American. “PASS has allowed me to be part of a union that cares about disadvantaged groups and minorities,” Curley said.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 11/25/2022 - 11:00National Native American Heritage Month Profiles: Delores “Dede” Lone Wolf
Throughout National Native American Heritage Month, the AFL-CIO will be profiling leaders and activists to spotlight the diverse contributions Native Americans have made to the labor movement and toward expanding the rights of working people. Today's profile features Delores “Dede” Lone Wolf, recording secretary for the Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 2366.
Dede Lone Wolf has served as recording secretary for IBEW Local 2366 in Lincoln, Nebraska, for three terms. She is also the union steward on the factory floor at Schneider Electric, where Square D circuit breakers are manufactured. In her free time, she enjoys attending her grandchildren's sporting events.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 11/23/2022 - 11:00Service + Solidarity Spotlight: Rest in Power, Fred Ross Jr. (1947–2022)
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service + Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
On Sunday, we lost an enthusiastic union leader and friend of many in the labor movement. Fred Ross Jr. followed in the footsteps of his father, who campaigned alongside César Chávez and the United Farm Workers (UFW). Ross began his organizing career with UFW and went on to serve in several other unions, focusing many of his efforts on defending the rights of immigrant workers. Earlier this year, he retired from his position as lead organizer for Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 1245 in California—a role he had held for 12 years and one in which he re-energized the union’s organizing efforts.
Ross’s career in organizing teaches us many valuable lessons, including the need to prioritize in-person conversations, build powerful coalitions and always make sure our campaigns are fun and optimistic. We share our gratitude to Brother Ross for his decades of service to the labor movement and his legacy of hopeful organizing. May his family and loved ones take comfort knowing that we are stronger because of his lifetime of dedication and service to working people.
In lieu of flowers, his family is inviting donations to the Fred Ross Project for those who are so inclined.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 11/23/2022 - 09:36Take Action: NFL Players Need Safer Fields
All employees are entitled to the safest working environment possible—including NFL players. NFL Players Association (NFLPA) members should not have to work on fields that cause a higher rate of injuries. If you stand in solidarity with our union brothers, please take 30 seconds to add your name and urge the NFL to replace slit-film surfaces.
Just as there are different types of grass, there are also different types of turf (monofilament, dual fiber and slit film).
The slit-film playing surface has statistically higher in-game injury rates compared to all other surfaces. The NFL and its experts have agreed with the data and acknowledged that slit-film fields are less safe.
There are currently seven teams that use slit film in their stadiums: the New York Giants, New York Jets, Detroit Lions, Minnesota Vikings, New Orleans Saints, Indianapolis Colts and Cincinnati Bengals.
The NFL has refused to ban and remove these fields and won’t commit to making any future change.
NFL players are doing their job and going to work, just like everyone else. And they deserve safe working conditions, too!
Please take 30 seconds to add your name and tell the NFL that players need safer fields.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 11/22/2022 - 12:51National Native American Heritage Month Profiles: Alex Osif
Throughout National Native American Heritage Month, the AFL-CIO will be profiling leaders and activists to spotlight the diverse contributions Native Americans have made to the labor movement and toward expanding the rights of working people. Today's profile features Alex Osif of the Mine Workers (UMWA).
Alex Osif worked for Peabody Coal Company for more than 30 years at the Black Mesa and Kayenta mines on the Navajo and Hopi reservations. He has served his union in numerous positions, including as a member of the Health and Safety Committee, recording secretary and, currently, president. Osif is also very active in helping miners with black lung issues.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 11/22/2022 - 11:00Service + Solidarity Spotlight: Equity Takes to Times Square for ‘It’s About Time Broadway’ Rally
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service + Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Some 200 members of Actors’ Equity Association (Equity) and their supporters came together on Thursday in Times Square to chant, raise their voices and share their stories of why ongoing contract negotiations with the Broadway League are so important. Equity’s actors and stage managers on Broadway are fighting for a new contract that enhances work coverage rules, scheduling and safety on the job. The union has been negotiating with the Broadway League since September. Click here to see photos and video from the rally.
Join Equity’s campaign and stand with the workers of Broadway.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 11/22/2022 - 10:10Alliance for Retired Americans Hosts 2022 Retirement Security Symposium
More than a dozen speakers from unions, government agencies, young workers and other groups shared strategies to address the continuing retirement security emergency in the United States at the Alliance for Retired Americans' Retirement Security Symposium: An Intergenerational Seminar. Attendees discussed pensions as well as other cornerstones of retirement security, including Social Security and Medicare. Several dozen attendees attended in person at AFL-CIO headquarters in Washington, D.C., and scores more participated virtually.
Alliance President Robert Roach Jr., convened the event and made opening and closing remarks. Alliance Executive Director Richard Fiesta gave a presentation on Social Security and Medicare.
“Strengthening and expanding Social Security and educating younger workers about the value of traditional pensions are essential for both policymakers and union organizers,” Roach said. “We are building an intergenerational movement that includes more young workers joining the fight to defend our pensions. It is a key part of the effort to improve the retirement security of all Americans.”
AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler gave the opening remarks in a special video about labor’s role in the passage of the American Rescue Plan, which included the Butch Lewis Act.
Rep. John Larson of Connecticut, chair of the House Ways and Means Social Security Subcommittee, spoke about the need to protect and expand Social Security now.
“Social Security is the nation’s number one insurance program, the number one anti-poverty program for the elderly and children, and Republicans are talking about holding the debt ceiling hostage to make cuts at a time when the program needs to be enhanced,” he said. “It needs to be enhanced because people are getting below-poverty-level checks; there hasn’t been an increase in more than 50 years.”
You can watch Larson’s full remarks here. Other highlights included the following:
- Senior officials from the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC) spoke about the PBGC’s Pension Insurance programs, Special Financial Assistance Program for multiemployer plans under the American Rescue Plan and PBGC reports.
- Meghan Rozarie, senior associate with the Retirees Organization and Field Services Department of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), offered a presentation that detailed how the retirement crisis had affected her own family.
- Mike Walden, incorporator and former president of National United Committee to Protect Pensions (NUCPPTM), and Ken Stribling, current NUCPPTM president, represented pension warrior Rita Lewis.
- Ilana Boivie, senior economist for the Strategic Resources Department with the Machinists (IAM), presented “Trends in Retirement Bargaining: What Do (Young) Workers Want?”
- Sisto Campana, labor advocate with AFSCME, updated participants on the status of public pension plans.
Videos of the presentations and additional material are available here.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 11/21/2022 - 15:03
