Service + Solidarity Spotlight: SMART Members Ready to Upgrade Filtration Systems to Prevent COVID-19
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 International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (SMART) said they are ready to get to work implementing the Biden–Harris administration’s new guidance for air filtration standards in businesses and schools. SMART welcomed this new standard, saying it was created in partnership between the union, environmental groups and the administration as the next step in the effort to protect against COVID-19.
“Proper ventilation is not only a key to our recovery, but it will also help cut building emissions, lower energy costs, ensure systems are meeting design intent and make buildings safe for occupants,” SMART said. “Employing a skilled, trained and certified workforce to complete this work is the surest way to ensure federal dollars are used effectively and efficiently to protect public health.”
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 03/21/2022 - 09:34Women's History Month Profiles: Edith Head
This year, for Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Edith Head of IATSE.
Eight-time Oscar winner Edith Head was one of the founders of the Costume Designers Guild in 1952. She was the inspiration for the character Edna Mode in the animated film "The Incredibles."
Kenneth Quinnell Sun, 03/20/2022 - 11:00Tags: Women's History Month
Women's History Month Profiles: Roslyn Austin-Stewart
This year, for Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Roslyn Austin-Stewart of AFGE.
Roslyn Austin-Stewart is an Air Force veteran. In her union roles, she has developed programs to educate her membership on how to properly file grievances and identify and document disparate treatment, harassment and discrimination. Austin-Stewart is also active with the California Labor Federation and the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor. In 2020, she became the first-ever recipient of the AFGE Veteran of the Year award for her military, civilian and volunteer service.
Kenneth Quinnell Sat, 03/19/2022 - 11:00Tags: Women's History Month
Women's History Month Profiles: Annette Wright-De Campos
This year, for Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Annette Wright-De Campos of the Culinary Union (UNITE HERE).
After becoming a Culinary Union member in 1987, Annette Wright-De Campos brought her children to the union picket lines because they benefited from the health plans members were fighting to keep. The strike was personal to her because her family needed the benefits a union contract provided. Being a Culinary Union member meant finding security and hope for her family.
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 03/18/2022 - 11:00Tags: Women's History Month
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: IATSE Donates $25K to Support Ukrainian Refugees
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 Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) made a $25,000 donation on Wednesday to support refugees who have fled the war in Ukraine. The union’s contribution was made through the International Trade Union Confederation’s relief fund and will go to provide basic necessities to Ukrainian refugees who have been forced from their homes during the Russian invasion.
“IATSE condemns the senseless and barbaric invasion of Ukraine by Russian Forces,” the union said. “We join the global labor movement in calling for an immediate end to Russia’s military aggression and violations of international law, and we support the global governments’ use of necessary sanctions and other strategic measures to pressure the Kremlin’s decision-makers to reverse course.”
Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 03/18/2022 - 10:00Union Veterans Council Becomes 7th AFL-CIO Constituency Organization
During the 2009 AFL-CIO Convention, the AFL-CIO passed a resolution to form the Union Veterans Council. From its inception, the UVC was a force multiplier for union veterans and all working families in their fight for economic freedom and security. And we are proud to announce today that because of our success and growth the UVC is becoming its own nonprofit labor organization that was just recognized by the AFL-CIO Executive Committee as only the 7th official constituency organization in history.
This decision by the UVC board, with the support of the AFL-CIO will allow us to scale our programmatic work and capacity to be even more effective as we fight to help union veterans and all working families better their lives.
The Union Veterans Council's foundation will remain unchanged and our mission to bring working-class veterans together to speak out on the issues that impact us most remains the same. With this recognition we are prepared to scale the UVC to be the labor movement's force multiplier and organization that is always there for the fight!
The Union Veterans Council was built to protect working-class veterans and their interests. We will continue to do so now with greater authority and reach. I want to thank everyone who was a part of this transition and for your continued support in the next part of our journey.
In addition to the UVC, the other AFL-CIO constituency organizations are: A. Philip Randolph Institute, Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance, Coalition of Black Trade Unionists, Coalition of Labor Union Women, Labor Council for Latin American Advancement and Pride At Work.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 03/17/2022 - 14:11Tags: Union Veterans Council
Together, We Win: Worker Wins
Despite the challenges of organizing during a deadly pandemic, working people across the country (and beyond) continue organizing, bargaining and mobilizing for a better life. This edition begins with:
Together, We Win: Senate Sends Postal Service Reform Act to Biden’s Desk: On Tuesday, the U.S. Senate passed the Postal Service Reform Act by a broadly bipartisan vote of 79-19. Together, the labor movement ensured it happened. America’s postal service unions are celebrating this landmark win to strengthen our U.S. Postal Service (USPS).
“This is a monumental victory for letter carriers and all Americans who depend on the Postal Service for affordable and high-quality universal service,” National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) President Fredric Rolando said. “I want to congratulate and thank all the NALC members who lobbied their members of Congress to win passage in the Senate and the House. Thanks to your support, dedication and action, bipartisan postal reform, that was 12 years in the making, has finally passed in both chambers.”
“It is not an exaggeration to say that this bill is one of the most critical pieces of postal legislation in modern history—the struggle to win postal reform has been 15 years in the making,” said American Postal Workers Union (APWU) Legislative and Political Director Judy Beard. “Thanks to the efforts carried out by postal workers, our sister unions, allied organizations and the American public, comprehensive postal reform is now a reality.”
“The Postal Service Reform Act repeals the burdensome 2006 mandate for the USPS to pre-fund its retiree health care benefits and aligns retiree health care with the best practices in the private sector that lower premiums for NPMHU members and our fellow postal employees as well as safeguarding benefits. According to the Congressional Budget Office, the legislation will save the federal government over $1.5 billion over the next 10 years,” National Postal Mail Handlers Union (NPMHU) National President Paul Hogrogian said. “I look forward to President Biden signing this bill into law and providing the Postal Service with much-needed fiscal stability.”
“The first overhaul of the Postal Service in more than a decade, this crucial postal reform legislation provides the Postal Service with substantial financial relief to help it remain viable well into the 21st century. I would like to personally recognize Chairman Peters, Ranking Member Portman and Majority Leader Schumer for their bipartisan efforts to get postal reform all the way to the finish line,” said National Rural Letter Carriers’ Association (NRLCA) President Ronnie Stutts. “I also want to thank all of the senators who voted ‘yes’ to help put America’s Postal Service on firm financial footing.”
ATU Scores Two Landslide Union Election Victories in One Day: Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 689 in Maryland won two separate union elections by overwhelming margins last Tuesday, showing that transit workers are fed up with being mistreated and ready to organize and fight back. Overcoming what the workers called “disgusting union-busting tactics,” Loudoun County Transit employees voted 71–2 to form a union with Local 689. And workers at James H. Duffy Co., a private school bus contractor, unanimously voted 18–0 for union representation. “Companies in this region better take notice. You can either spend thousands or millions of dollars on union busting campaigns or you can use that money to take care of your workers,” said Raymond Jackson, president and business agent for Local 689. “And for any workers at a transit company where they feel disrespected and underpaid, come meet with us, our doors are always open.”
After Three Years of Organizing, IAM Members Win First Contract: More than 100 workers at the Cascades Containerboard plant in Niagara Falls, New York, ratified their first union contract earlier this week after voting almost three years ago to form a union with the Machinists (IAM). In their long struggle for respect at the bargaining table, the IAM members at the Canadian company rallied support from across the labor movement as well as members of Congress. “I could not be more proud of these members for their solidarity, courage and dedication to get the first contract for each other,” said IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President Brian Bryant. “This has been a long time coming, and there aren’t many groups that could continue to display the solidarity and patience these members have. The longer the process has gone on, the more resolve these members have shown.”
GMG Union-WGAE Members Ratify Strong Agreement: Members of the Gizmodo Media Group (GMG) Union-Writers Guild of America, East (WGAE) have won a powerful new contract, ending their six-day strike. They were the first digital media workers to organize with the WGAE, and on Wednesday, they overwhelmingly ratified a contract that achieved a long list of their goals. The new agreement covers workers at a number of popular websites owned by G/O Media, including Gizmodo, The Root and Lifehacker. “After six days of striking and four days of strong physical and virtual picket lines, our bargaining unit is thrilled to have a new contract,” the bargaining committee wrote. “Ninety-nine percent of the GMG Union voted to ratify the return-to-work agreement that raised wages for all union members, increased parental leave and minimum severance, required trans-inclusive health insurance and beat back management’s attempt to control how we spoke about our working conditions.”
Groundwork Workers Ratify First Union Contract: Workers with the Groundwork Collaborative Union ratified the first collective bargaining agreement in the company's history. With the ratification of the contract, the workers at Groundwork have secured increased pay, paid time-off, telework, promotion, hiring and other benefits. “Our members are so excited to enact this first contract as a critical step toward ensuring that staff—especially our Black and brown coworkers—are heard, supported, and valued in our workplace,” said Heather Henriquez a member of the Groundwork Collaborative Union.
Alaska Safeway Workers Secure New 3-Year Contract: The 1,000 members of the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 1496 that work for Carrs Safeway in Anchorage and Eagle River, Alaska, voted unanimously to approve a new contract. The new deal covers three years and includes significant pay increases, increased upward mobility and earning potential, improved access to dental and vision insurance and improved workplace safety.
Times Tech Workers Form One of the Largest Tech Unions in the Country: Tech workers at The New York Times voted to certify their new union, The Times Tech Guild, an affiliate of The NewsGuild-CWA (TNG-CWA), becoming one of the largest tech unions in the U.S. Negotiations will begin for their first contract and the workers are focused on improved pay, diversity and equity and more fairness in the workplace. The new unit represents about 600 software engineers, product managers, designers, data analysts and other workers. “We’re just elated and really soaking in what this means, not only for us as tech workers at The Times and for The New York Times but also for the tech industry as a whole,” said Nozlee Samadzadeh, a senior software engineer. “I think this is going to be the start of a wave of organizing in the tech industry.”
REI SoHo Workers in New York Overwhelmingly Vote to Join RWDSU-UFCW: Workers at the REI Co-Op in Manhattan voted with an 86% majority to join the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union-UFCW (RWDSU-UFCW). “History was made today! We’re excited to welcome the workers of REI SoHo into the RWDSU, marking the first-ever unionized REI store in the whole country,” said Stuart Appelbaum, president of RWDSU-UFCW. “These workers have vast expertise in their field and have worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic to serve the outdoor community. They have stuck together through a horrendous union-busting campaign and have come out the other side stronger. The workers of REI SoHo are ready to negotiate a strong contract that will allow them to uphold the co-op’s progressive values while providing the top-notch service REI customers have come to expect. With a seat at the table, workers can make working at REI safe and sustainable for years to come.” The new bargaining unit will cover more than 100 workers, including all full- and part-time sales specialists, technical specialists, visual presentation specialists, shipping and receiving specialists, certified technicians, operations leads, sales leads, and shipping and receiving leads. “I am proud to be here in this moment with my coworkers at REI SoHo as a part of this new wave of unionization efforts that is sweeping the nation,” said Claire Chang, a member of the union’s organizing committee. “As members of the RWDSU, we know we will be able to harness our collective strength to advocate for a more equitable, safe, and enriching work environment. A union is necessary for many of us to achieve more stability and security in our lives which could allow for us to explore and play more outside of work!”
New Jersey Food Processors Win New Contract That Raises Wages and Protects Benefits
UFCW Local 152: More than 70 members of UFCW Local 152 ratified a new contract with Aunt Kitty’s Foods in Vineland, N.J. Aunt Kitty’s is owned by Hanover Foods; this location produces chili and soup for other companies. The new three-year contract includes large across-the-board wage increases, protects existing health care benefits and allows members to opt in for voluntary supplemental benefits, including life and disability insurance and sickness. Members also can pay into Local 152’s fund that assists members suffering financial hardship because of illness or injury. Many members also will receive additional paid sick leave.
SAG-AFTRA Reaches Agreement with New York Public Radio Over Unfair Labor Practice Claims: In 2021, SAG-AFTRA filed an unfair labor practice claim with the National Labor Relations Board. This week they reached a settlement and SAG-AFTRA has withdrawn the claim. Provisions of the settlement include “an extension of just cause protections to reporters and on-air hosts; a one-time 3% wage increase in July 2022 for all bargaining unit employees making under $100,000 per year; enhancements to NYPR’s parental leave policy; and a resolution of claims brought by the union regarding personnel issues pertaining to individual staff members.”
BCTGM Members at Jon Donaire End Strike, Ratify New Contract: Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers (BCTGM) Local 37 (in Los Angeles) members on strike against Rich Products-owned Jon Donaire Desserts plant in Sante Fe, California, voted on Wednesday to ratify a new collective bargaining agreement, bringing an end to the strike that began on Nov. 3, 2021. The new contract provides wage increases, maintains health care coverage and improves working conditions—demands that workers fought for. About the agreement, BCTGM International President Anthony Shelton said: “This has been a long and difficult fight for our striking members and their families. With each new day on that picket line, fighting for what they deserve, our members grew in strength, courage and determination. The Jon Donaire members made enormous sacrifices in order to achieve a fair contract that provides significant wage increases, maintains their excellent health insurance and improves working conditions. The BCTGM is grateful for the tremendous fraternal support we received from across the labor movement throughout the country—from Los Angeles to Buffalo, N.Y., the backyard of Rich Products.”
Workers at iHeartPodcast Network Secure Voluntary Recognition of New Union: After weeks of negotiation, workers at the iHeartPodcast Network have secured voluntary recognition of their new unit, which is represented by WGAE. The 110-member unit consists of writers, producers, editors and others in storytelling roles in Atlanta, Los Angeles and New York. “We’re incredibly excited to win official union recognition and secure our seat at the table to bargain for appropriate wages and benefits, accountability mechanisms, and other long-standing issues for our colleagues and ourselves,” said the members of the iHeartPodcast Network Organizing Committee. “We now look forward to engaging in good-faith negotiations with the company, and are confident that this process will ensure the continued success and stability of the podcast industry.” Top priorities for the new union are raising wages and benefits to industry standard levels, job growth opportunities, job security, better working conditions and other gains. The workers will now begin negotiating their first contract.
IAM Members at Hawaiian Airlines Overwhelmingly Ratify Strong Contracts with Job Protections, Pay Raises: Some 2,500 IAM members overwhelmingly ratified strong five-year contracts with Hawaiian Airlines on Wednesday. These union members won the best job protections and largest pay raises for clerical and related agents, as well as ramp, aircraft and ground support equipment mechanics in the airline’s history. The new agreements provide significant wage increases, limit employee contributions for health care and raise mandatory overtime pay. “Our members at Hawaiian Airlines and across the transportation sector have kept the world moving through[out] this pandemic,” said Richard Johnsen, IAM’s chief of staff to the international president. “They deserved a contract that gives them the respect they have earned, and I’m proud to report that this has been accomplished.”
UFCW 7 Gets Another Victory in Colorado: The same union that led a successful strike against King Soopers in January has scored another victory for working people in Colorado and Wyoming. UFCW Local 7 reached a tentative agreement with Safeway and Albertsons stores. The contract covers 5,400 employees and will provide wage increases and substantial gains in health care, vacation and sick leave. “This agreement, which was secured without the need for a strike, ensures that workers receive paid sick leave, fair pay, a safe workplace, and access to affordable health care,” Local 7 President Kim Cordova said.
Texas National Guard Members Join Texas State Employees Union: Members of the Texas National Guard joined the Texas State Employees Union (TSEU), an affiliate of Communications Workers of America (CWA) and the Texas AFL-CIO. These workers spoke up about the unacceptable working conditions the state has provided them while they have been deployed at the Texas-Mexico border. Texas AFL-CIO President Rick Levy said: “The Texas AFL-CIO welcomes Texas National Guard troops joining the Texas State Employees Union. We applaud TSEU leadership for extending its vision to help our troops address the inexcusable work environment they are navigating in ‘Operation Lone Star.’ Texas National Guard troops bravely serve our state and nation on many fronts, including disaster relief. They did not sign up for unclear assignments outside their traditional jurisdiction, late paychecks, or disruption of everyday lives and threats to mental health caused by an open-ended, politicized deployment. Members of our Texas National Guard serve with pride. They deserve better than what Gov. Greg Abbott has created—an ill-defined operation with no end in sight. All workers deserve a union. National Guard members subjected to this stunt know that using their voice together is how change happens. The Texas AFL-CIO joins with TSEU in demanding that the state respect their work in a manner consistent with their sacrifice.”
Duke University Press Workers Vote to Join The NewsGuild-CWA: After a turbulent year of organizing, workers at Duke University Press have successfully voted to join TNG-CWA. The university contested the election, but the National Labor Relations Board repeatedly denied requests for a new election. The workers are asking Duke to respect the election results and begin bargaining. The new union is seeking to negotiate a $45,000 pay floor for all employees and to improve paid medical leave and parental leave benefits.
Nurses Celebrate Step Forward for Gender Equity in California’s Workers’ Comp System: Last week, members of the California Nurses Association/NNU (CNA/NNU) applauded the California state senate for passing a bill that will ensure that nurses and other health care workers are automatically presumed to be eligible for workers’ compensation if they experience some common work-related conditions. California already has laws on the books that grant many public safety workers who are predominantly men presumptive eligibility for certain conditions. “It’s so common that nurses have to jump through hoops, while we’re sick or hurt, just to receive paid time off for illnesses or injuries that we got at work,” explained Cathy Kennedy, RN, president of CNA/NNU. “The disparity in workers’ comp protections is sexist. Our heroic first responders and law enforcement workers deserve all the protections they have. Nurses are simply asking for those same protections.”
Air Traffic Controllers in Tennessee Join NATCA: The National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) announced on Monday that workers at the John C. Tune Federal Contract Tower are joining the union. Located in West Nashville, Tennessee, John C. Tune Airport (JWN) is the busiest general aviation airport in the state. Workers at the tower serve the needs of regional, corporate and private aircraft. “JWN [workers] joined NATCA because of the dedicated and passionate members who will go above and beyond to help protect our rights and working conditions,” said JWN Facility Representative Keith Cole. “Being a part of NATCA means that we have a union that cares for its membership and is ready to fight day in and day out to protect our rights and benefits.”
Workers at Civic Tech Company Win Recognition for Wall-to-Wall Union with OPEIU: A supermajority of eligible employees at Nava PBC requested voluntary recognition of their union on Thursday, and earlier today, their employer agreed. The unit of 171 employees at the public benefit corporation organized with Office and Professional Employees (OPEIU) Tech Workers Union Local 1010. Workers’ goals are to promote transparency in internal company policies, ensure pay equity, increase staff well-being and retention, and to attract new talent in a highly competitive space. “As I’ve grown as a software engineer, I’ve seen the company grow by hundreds of people,” said Sharon Warner, a senior software engineer at Nava since 2016, who explained the company’s growth has made the prospect of a union contract ever more appealing. “One unfortunate side effect of that growth is the distance between workers and leadership has grown, too. Our union will provide a framework for how to scale and maintain an open, transparent culture.”
Staff at New America Vote to Join NPEU: A supermajority of staff at nonpartisan public policy think tank New America voted to join the Nonprofit Professional Employees Union (NPEU). More than 60 eligible employees are covered by the new unit, which comes as the result of two years or organizing. The workers are seeking to build a more equitable and supportive workplace through improving transparency in pay and promotions, improving benefits and addressing organizational inequality related to race, gender, disability and immigration status. In a statement, New America United said: “We are all honored to work at New America and are deeply committed to its mission. We believe that a union is the best way to work towards the vision of New America we all hope to fulfill.... We are excited to begin the collective bargaining process and a new, more cooperative chapter in the path-breaking work that takes place every day at New America.”
King Soopers Workers Approve New Contract: Workers at King Supers (owned by Kroger Co.) went on a 10-day strike at the start of the year and that action led to a tentative contract that was recently approved by the workers. The new three-year contract covers 80 stores and includes $170 million in wage increases and additional health care investments. More than 95% of workers will see pay increases of $2 or more in the first year.
Credit Union Workers in Rochester Unanimously Join CWA: Workers at Genesee Co-op Federal Credit Union in Rochester, New York, won voluntary union recognition last week after unanimously expressing their desire to form a union with CWA Local 1170. The workers organized as part of the Committee for Better Banks, a CWA project. Genesee Co-op regularly collaborates with unions and other organizations, to advocate for a more just financial system. “We are incredibly proud to welcome Genesee Co-op credit union workers into our union family and take steps forward to a strong contract that improves their wages and working conditions,” said John Pusloskie, president of Local 1170. “Organizing a union is no easy task, but these workers have come together with a determination to truly create a better workplace for all.” He praised the credit union for respecting its workers’ right to form a union.
National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) Players Ratify First Union Contract: Members of the NWSL Players Association ratified the first collective bargaining agreement in NWSL history. The new contract includes increased salaries, increased minimum salaries, improved retirement benefits, housing stipends, a new free agency system and improvements to player safety. “From our inception, the Players Association has put players first,” said NWSLPA president Tori Huster. “Our mission in this historic CBA was to put this same philosophy at the center of NWSL’s future. With the amount of care and attention that we have given this process since Fall 2020, we are proud that players can confidently enter the tenth season of the NWSL in a better position than ever before.”
Vice Media Postproduction Workers Overwhelmingly Approve New Contract: Postproduction workers at Vice Media ratified a new three-year contract. The new deal reduces working hours without reducing compensation. The agreement was approved by 97% of eligible employees, who are represented by Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 700, the Motion Picture Editors Guild. The workers are based in Brooklyn and work on unscripted television, digital video and broadcast news. The contract ensures that the lowest-paid workers get the biggest increase. “Behind every piece of content on a screen there are hundreds of talented workers losing sleep and time well-spent with their loved ones,” said Ilari Polsonetti, an editor for "Vice News Tonight" and a member of the negotiating committee. “Today we said enough is enough, a different way of working in film and TV is possible. I hope what we accomplished here can be a stepping stone towards reclaiming the healthier work-life balance that is so badly needed in our industry.” The Hollywood Reporter has reached out to Vice Media for comment.
Workers at Elizabethtown Gas Form a Union with UWUA: Seventy workers from Elizabethtown Gas’ customer experience team have voted overwhelmingly to join the Utility Workers (UWUA) Local 601. The new members of Local 601 work in the call center, billing department and walk-in customer service centers. They are joining many of their co-workers who were already represented by UWUA, including meter readers, first responders, and measurement and regulation techs. “It was time for us to have a voice at the table to promote positive changes in the workplace to benefit us and our families,” explained Matthew Loda, a customer service representative II. “UWUA gives us that voice.” The New Jersey State AFL-CIO’s officers applauded Local 601’s organizing victory and welcomed these new union members into the state’s labor movement.
Newport News Shipbuilding Workers Tentatively Agree to 5-Year Contract: Workers at Newport News Shipbuilding, represented by the United Steelworkers (USW) Local 8888, tentatively agreed to a new five-year contract. The new agreement includes wage increases and pension improvements. Newport News Shipbuilding is the largest industrial employer in Virginia, with 12,000 workers in this collective bargaining agreement, alone. “This is a solid contract with the improvements we fought hard to win,” said Charles Spivey, president of Local 8888. “I believe this is the best deal we could bring back to our membership at this time. We stood our ground to be treated and rewarded as Essential Shipbuilders....We are pleased that the union is continuing to honor all current contract terms and conditions and that we continue to meet our mission in building ships for the U.S. Navy.”
Hundreds of Health Care Workers in Pennsylvania Vote to Join USW: Throughout the country, health care workers are joining together to fight for better pay, better benefits and safety on the job. The latest organizing win comes from some 500 health care workers at Kane Community Living Centers across the Pittsburgh region who voted unanimously last Friday to join USW. Their new bargaining unit will consist of certified nursing assistants (CNAs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs), dietary and recreation aides, housekeeping workers, and material handlers at the four Allegheny County-run assisted living and senior facilities. The new USW members said the result was a long time coming. “We’ve been striving all year to make this election happen, and I am so glad we can now move on to the work of bargaining a fair contract,” said Desirae Beatty, a 17-year employee at Kane. “We have shown the county and Kane that we can organize and move as one.”
SAG-AFTRA Reaches Agreement with Super Bowl Halftime Producers: Professional Dancers Will Not Be Asked to Work for Free: Following an “open and frank discussion,” the producers of the Super Bowl halftime show have agreed with SAG-AFTRA that professional dancers will not be asked to work as volunteers for the massively popular TV event. In a statement released on Tuesday, SAG-AFTRA said: “It is important to note that [producer] Roc Nation had always contracted for 115 paid SAG-AFTRA professional dancers as part of the stage show. We are grateful to Roc Nation, their producer and in particular our member Jay-Z, for their collaboration and commitment to professional artists. As a union, we believe all working participants should be paid and compensated for their labor, and we will be advising our professional dancer members that they should not be rehearsing or working on the Super Bowl Halftime Show without compensation. Like millions of Americans, we are looking forward to this seminal moment in hip hop history.” The agreement follows complaints from professional dancers who had been encouraged to volunteer to work the field show without compensation.
New Partnership Expands Veteran Job Opportunities in Southern California’s Utility Sector: The Utility Workers Military Assistance Program (UMAP), in partnership with UWUA Local 132 and Southern California Gas (SoCalGas), recently launched a new program to tackle homelessness among veterans through training and employment opportunities. UMAP’s effective training-to-placement model will benefit 40 veterans over the next several months, and those who successfully graduate will work for SoCal Gas as leak technicians. “This exciting new partnership between UMAP and SoCal Gas will create a clear path forward for veterans who otherwise may have faced uncertainty about what to do next after leaving the military,” said UWUA Director of Veterans Affairs and Workforce Development Rick Passarelli. “Veterans are looking for a hand up and not a handout, and this program is a lifeline when they need it. We’re excited this program can begin to benefit veterans in California.”
New York Veterinary Workers Among First in Nation to Unionize: Workers at Veterinary Specialists and Emergency Services in Brighton, New York, became among the first workers at a veterinary hospital in the country to join a union, voting by more than a 2-1 margin for the union. The new unit will be affiliated with the IAM. The workers are seeking better pay and better working conditions to help them fight burnout and turnover. "We're gonna band together and actually be able to have the conversations we've been hoping for and hopefully they'll be good negotiating partners through that process with us," said Sam Estes, an ultrasound technician and organizer.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 03/17/2022 - 13:24Tags: Organizing
Take Action: Confirm Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson to the Supreme Court
After 232 years, the first Black woman has been nominated to the U.S. Supreme Court: Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson. And if we have anything to do with it, she’ll also be the first Black woman to serve on the Supreme Court. The Senate must confirm her immediately.
Judge Jackson is eminently qualified for this critical lifetime position. Her distinguished legal career includes:
- Her term on the U.S. District Court in Washington, where she ruled on more than 550 cases;
- Her tenure as an assistant federal public defender; and
- Her experience serving as vice chair of the U.S. Sentencing Commission.
We are confident she will bring her clear commitment to equal justice and fairness to the highest court in the land.
Being the first is never easy and Judge Jackson is doing what so many women have done before her, breaking barriers to ensure that she is not the last.
Add your name to our petition say you support Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 03/17/2022 - 10:34Women's History Month Profiles: Lynda Bloomberg
This year, for Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Lynda Bloomberg of the Professional Aviation Safety Specialists (PASS).
Lynda Bloomberg joined PASS in 1997, the same day she arrived at the FAA after military service. Working in a heavily male-dominated technician workforce, Bloomberg held union representative positions at every facility where she has worked. She continues her fight to ensure the union contract is enforced equitably, regardless of gender or ethnicity.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 03/17/2022 - 10:00Tags: Women's History Month
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: BCTGM Donates Union-Made Food to AFM Members on Strike in San Antonio
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 members of the Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers (BCTGM) know what it’s like to go through a tough strike. Securing fair contracts with food manufacturing giants like Kellogg, Nabisco and Jon Donaire Desserts all within the past year was no easy task. And it’s because of this dedication to solidarity that the international union is donating food made by its own members to support striking musicians at the San Antonio Symphony.
For months, the 72 members of American Federation of Musicians (AFM) Local 23 have been on strike against the symphony, demanding a fair contract that recognizes their labor to make the cultural organization a success. Local 23 President Richard Oppenheim expressed his thanks to the BCTGM and said this support could not have come at a better time.
“How do we as labor help our sisters and brothers?” asked AFL-CIO Executive Vice President Emerita Linda Chavez-Thompson. “We provide what’s needed to help achieve a better livelihood. Whether this be guidance, sweat, manpower or, in the case of striking symphony workers, food. Labor is always there for each other when times call for solidarity.” Chavez-Thompson was among the volunteers packing up donated food at the San Antonio AFL-CIO offices last week.
The San Antonio central labor council and the United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County will be delivering the food to all families of Local 23 in the coming days. The donated bread and snack products were made by BCTGM Local 111 members at the Bimbo Bakeries USA plant in San Antonio.
Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 03/17/2022 - 09:35Women's History Month Profiles: Noemi Barrera
This year, for Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Noemi Barrera of the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW).
Noemi Barrera was the lead organizer at Pindar Vineyards during the historic effort to form the first unionized agricultural workforce in the state of New York.
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 03/16/2022 - 10:00Tags: Women's History Month
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: NNU Applauds Decision to End Texas’ Investigations of Trans Youth and Their Families
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.
National Nurses United (NNU) on Friday applauded a Texas judge’s decision to stop child abuse investigations into transgender youth and their families on the grounds of providing gender-affirming care. The union also affirmed its support for transgender youth, their families and the entire LGBTQ+ community. As politicians in states across the country continue to push for policies that endanger the health and safety of these communities, nurses are saying enough is enough.
“While it would be easy to view these attacks simply as political gamesmanship, and they are that, they are also a very real and grave threat to the health, existence and futures of transgender people,” said NNU President Zenei Triunfo-Cortez, RN. “Nurses know our first responsibility is to our patients, to care for them, and to advocate on their behalf based on available evidence.”
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 03/16/2022 - 09:30Equal Pay Day: 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:
Happy to see SJR 12 pass the Senate unanimously! This legislation encourages Congress to eliminate harmful social security provisions that hurt many of Alaska’s retirees. On to the House!#akleg pic.twitter.com/7EgWbCEO3q
— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) March 11, 2022Arizona AFL-CIO:
Thank you for sharing your story, @lailaddaltonn. Arizona's labor movement stands with you, and all @Starbucks workers who are fighting for better working conditions. #UnionYES @SBWorkersUnited https://t.co/0an3PoF72r
— Arizona AFL-CIO (@ArizonaAFLCIO) March 5, 2022California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:
Unions are working people standing TOGETHER, arm in arm!
We stand with you!@UFCWWSC8 #UnionStrong #1u #WhenWeFightWeWin https://t.co/3PwNU3LaPS
Colorado AFL-CIO:
It’s happening #copolitics @SBWorkersUnited United we will win! @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/EjkaDqICW2
— Colorado AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOCO) March 11, 2022Connecticut AFL-CIO:
.@UFCW Local 371 Organizing Director Jessica Petronella breaks down the types of anti-union tactics management will engage in to scare workers.
Watch the full video & learn how you can help protect workers from captive audience meetings: https://t.co/GegpsovezE pic.twitter.com/1kHscJPzeW
Florida AFL-CIO:
The 2022 Florida Legislative Session officially came to a close today.
Click here to read our Sine Die brief for a look at the key bills that faced Florida's working families this session: https://t.co/0ymi1y3xVj pic.twitter.com/Q0To2HF4QP
Georgia State AFL-CIO:
It’s a beautiful day to walk back your vote, @MeshaMainor! #WalkItBackMesha https://t.co/t5TiQf9daV
— Georgia AFL-CIO // Pass The #ProAct (@AFLCIOGeorgia) March 14, 2022Indiana State AFL-CIO:
The Biden administration is proposing changes designed to push up wages for workers at federally-funded construction projects such as interstates. 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼https://t.co/wcEpjNC9P5
— Indiana AFL-CIO (@INAFLCIO) March 14, 2022Iowa Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO:
The latest Iowa Daily Labor News! https://t.co/2BR5wHa2Rq Thanks to @UAW @AFTunion @IBEW #innovationfund #ibew
— Iowa AFL-CIO (@IowaAFLCIO) March 15, 2022Maine AFL-CIO:
Portland Professional Firefighters & @MachinistsUnion Local S7 joined Cummins workers (IAM 477) on the picket line in solidarity this week in Scarborough!
https://t.co/XSZ5FzFaBL #solidarity #1u #FairContractNow
Maryland State and D.C. AFL-CIO:
We want to thank everyone who came out last night for the #LaborReception. #1u #solidarity pic.twitter.com/esMTAXb2FI
— Maryland State and DC AFL-CIO (@MDDCStateFed) March 10, 2022Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
Proud to hold the line with @MachinistsUnion every day until an agreement is reached #1u https://t.co/ozn6IM52Fs
— Massachusetts AFL-CIO // Build Back Better (@massaflcio) March 9, 2022Michigan State AFL-CIO:
In just one month @coffee_comrades have already made such an impact on the American labor movement! @unitehere #NoContractNoBeans #ComradesInCoffee https://t.co/uW0m4Rkvcu
— Michigan AFL-CIO 💉💪 (@MIAFLCIO) March 15, 2022Minnesota AFL-CIO:
Educators are striking for safe, stable schools. https://t.co/z26DEQohsR #1u @MFT59 @MFT59ESP
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) March 15, 2022Missouri AFL-CIO:
Missouri's own Gina Walsh speaking about solving issues that address women in the trades. Take a listen! #WomenInConstructionWeek https://t.co/IcdBBiHT39
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) March 10, 2022Montana State AFL-CIO:
Today, working people let candidates know that workers are the economy and workers are watching. #mtpol #mtgov #unionstrong pic.twitter.com/bEqa9CpwV6
— Montana AFL-CIO (@MTaflcio) March 14, 2022New Hampshire AFL-CIO:
This is what #Solidarity looks like #NHPolitics #1u @PFFNH @Iaff856 ✊ https://t.co/nHlMfET8sO
— NewHampshire AFL-CIO (@NHAFLCIO) March 15, 2022New Mexico Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO:
✊ Celebrating 135 years of union brothers and sisters ✊ https://t.co/Q7jpEfThRG
— ✊ NMFL ✊ (@NMFLaflcio) March 15, 2022New York State AFL-CIO:
Ascension Living has the money to pay their Our Lady of Peace nursing home workers fairly, they just don't want to. Get the full story on our new episode of the Union Strong Podcast coming Monday, March 14th. pic.twitter.com/3GhrTyivsY
— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) March 12, 2022North Carolina State AFL-CIO:
For all NC workers currently organizing for a better life and all those thinking of doing the same, we have one thing to say. #UnionYES #1u @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/CspyBjG44l
— NC State AFL-CIO // #OrganizeTheSouth (@NCStateAFLCIO) March 10, 2022Ohio AFL-CIO:
The trade #union movement is stepping up to help the working people of Ukraine. Many have already given to great organizations. But if you have a few more dollars think of helping through the @ituc https://t.co/ADalH8OojG
— 🇺🇦 Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) March 15, 2022Oklahoma State AFL-CIO:
— Oklahoma State AFL-CIO (@OK_AFL_CIO) March 15, 2022Oregon AFL-CIO:
The Oregon AFL-CIO is proud to endorse State Rep. @MarkMeekOR! With strong, pro-worker leaders in office we can truly make progress for working families across the state. Learn more at https://t.co/XUMz6T70Ib pic.twitter.com/GQ8Hvy7Sja
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) March 12, 2022Rhode Island AFL-CIO:
We at the RI AFL-CIO were honored to meet @SecMartyWalsh at this morning’s Greater Rhode Island LERA breakfast meeting pic.twitter.com/jgftw96ytM
— Rhode Island AFL-CIO (@riaflcio) March 11, 2022Tennessee AFL-CIO Labor Council:
🚨LEGISLATIVE ALERT! It's a busy day as two major pieces of anti-worker legislation are scheduled to be heard. If you haven't done so already, please click below and tell state lawmakers to stop trying to manage private businesses & employees! #1u https://t.co/GC4wULaPKV
— Tennessee AFL-CIO (@tnaflcio) March 15, 2022Texas AFL-CIO:
Today marks the number of extra days women have to work to earn the same amount as their male counterparts in a year – and the gap is even wider for women of color.
Unionizing helps minimize pay disparities, but ALL women deserve to be paid a fair wage. #EqualPayDay pic.twitter.com/IsCqOSQBIG
Virginia AFL-CIO:
Today is #EqualPayDay . We aren’t standing for the nickel, dimes, and petty pennies on the dollar that women are earning. There’s strength in equality, and we are here for it. pic.twitter.com/B5y0OZjY7n
— Virginia AFL-CIO (@Virginia_AFLCIO) March 15, 2022Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:
After 111 days on strike, Merlino Construction finally brought a proposal to @Teamsters 174 members -including a provision to gut these workers' right to honor picket lines. This is union-busting, not negotiating. Shame on Merlino Construction! #OneDayLonger #1u https://t.co/CXCGa4QkVz
— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) March 10, 2022Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
JOIN US March 18: Ellen Bravo and Larry Miller in conversation with Tony Baez at Boswell Books in Milwaukee. Discussing their new novel celebrating a lifetime of organizing.
RSVP at https://t.co/mRRO3MwtVF pic.twitter.com/SoL8FsHHi6
Relief for the Postal Service: 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.
Congress Passes $50 Billion U.S. Postal Service Relief Bill: “In a rare display of bipartisanship for a narrowly divided Congress, the 79-19 vote follows approval by the U.S. House of Representatives in early February and sends the bill to President Joe Biden for his signature. AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler, whose union represents postal workers, said the bill was the culmination of ‘15 years of efforts to fund and strengthen USPS.’”
Phinney, Crowley and Toner: Workers Have a Climate Plan for Region: “Amidst omicron, political discord and extreme weather disasters, 2022 hasn’t brought much good news. But flying under the radar is a game-changing story about state budget surpluses that could set New England on a path to tackling some of the biggest issues of our time: climate collapse and deep inequality. Studies show that New England is warming faster than the global average. We got a glimpse of the impacts of climate breakdown during storm-fueled power outages from Hurricane Ida and this winter’s nor’easter—but intensifying weather is just the beginning. Rising seas could wipe out entire communities along our region’s coastline.”
‘A Voice That Needs to Be Heard’: “Asked about specific legislative goals for this new enhanced partnership, Randi Weingarten, AFT president, cited the AFT’s and AAUP’s previously announced New Deal for Higher Education. The proposed legislative agenda seeks reinvestment in higher education at the state and federal levels, the end of mass employment of low-paid adjunct instructors, academic freedom surrounding the teaching of inequality and U.S. history, student debt relief, and increased college access. Weingarten said the expanded relationship between the AFT and AAUP is a ‘game changer for higher education, and I think it’s a game changer for democracy. Democracy is under assault, and a strong higher education movement is needed to bolster and protect it. And I think this partnership is more than the sum of its parts.’”
Solar Panels; Liz Shuler; Local Sports; The PLAYERS : “Liz Shuler, the first female president of the AFL-CIO, spoke in Jacksonville on Friday about her vision for growing the power of labor in America, especially after two years of the pandemic.”
Punching In: No Retreat, No Surrender in $15 Per Hour Wage War: “The labor movement won’t compromise on a minimum wage less than $15, largely because rampant inflation has made that number less significant than it used to be, AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler said in an interview with Bloomberg Law. ‘Fifteen dollars, when we were fighting many years ago, sounded high,’ Shuler said. ‘But today it’s continuing to lose value if we don’t index it to inflation, so we think that’s the baseline.’”
MLB Players Association Launches $1 Million Fund to Assist Seasonal Workers Affected by Owners' Lockout: “‘Whether you're a worker on the baseball field, or a worker behind the scenes, we all deserve respect and dignity on the job,’ AFL-CIO president Liz Shuler said in a statement. ‘The labor movement will do everything in our power to support these and all workers.’”
Biden to Use Federal Purchasing Power to Increase U.S. Manufacturing: “Goods can be purchased by the federal government with tax dollars if just 55 percent of their parts were manufactured here. On Friday, President Biden plans to unveil a new regulation upping that standard to 75%. The new rule updates the Buy America Act, a 1930s-era law that requires the federal government to use taxpayer dollars on goods that are manufactured domestically.”
America Added 678,000 Jobs in February, Smashing Forecasts: “The U.S. economy added 678,000 jobs in February, exceeding economists' expectations. It was the best month for job growth since July. The nation has 2.1 million jobs to go before hitting the February 2020 level and recouping all positions lost in the pandemic, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported Friday.”
The Economy Is Recovering Fast. But We Need to Ensure It Works for Everyone: “Over the last 12 months, the economy has added 6.6 million jobs, an astonishing pace. And while there is still a significant gap in the labor market, we are on track to return to pre-pandemic labor market conditions before the end of 2022—a recovery that is roughly eight years faster than the recovery from the Great Recession, according to our own calculations. And that's because, unlike in the aftermath of the Great Recession, Congress did what was needed to spur a strong recovery this time around. We would have millions fewer jobs today if Congress had not enacted the Covid relief and recovery measures it did. And these policies have not only made the recovery faster overall, but particularly so for historically disadvantaged groups.”
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 03/15/2022 - 10:32Women's History Month Profiles: Barbara Dolney
This year, for Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Barbara Dolney of the Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE).
Over the past two years, IATSE Local 896's Barbara Dolney has helped to keep thousands of working people in their homes by working with fellow union members to organize events connecting Houston-area renters with assistance and free legal aid.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 03/15/2022 - 10:00Tags: Women's History Month
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: Kentucky Labor Steps Up to the Plate to Help Communities
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.
Think “solidarity,” that old union byword, is just an empty phrase these days?
Think again.
Better yet, talk to Tim Morris, executive director of the Greater Louisville Central Labor Council (GLCLC), and to Liles Taylor, Kentucky State AFL-CIO political coordinator.
They’ll clue you in about scores of union members from coast to coast who have donated about $300,000 to help their Kentucky union brothers and sisters who were among the victims of deadly tornadoes that ravaged western and south central Kentucky on the night of Dec. 10-11.
Morris and Taylor volunteered to head the Union Member Disaster Relief program. It's a four-way partnership between the GLCLC, the state AFL-CIO and the Kentucky and Metro United Way. The program provides money for paying bills and for food, clothing and shelter for union families in need.
The relief effort is personal for Morris and for Tim Sanders, a member of Louisville United Auto Workers Local 862. He's also labor liaison to Metro United Way.
Morris grew up in Ohio County. Sanders is a Hart County native.
One of the twisters struck Hartford, the Ohio county seat, as well as nearby Centertown and Olaton. But the tornado missed Horse Branch, where Morris's mother, brother and sister-in-law live. That tornado or another one roared through Munfordville, the Hart County seat, and also damaged Hardyville, Canmer and Horse Cave, the latter near where Sanders grew up.
Morris turned 37 on Dec. 11. He knew nothing of the massive tornado system dubbed “the Beast” until he saw shocking news reports on TV at home in Louisville. The tornadoes killed 80 Kentuckians and left a 165.7-mile long trail of destruction in their wake.
Fearful for his family, Morris frantically tried to phone his mother but couldn’t get through. She called him about 2 a.m., Louisville time.
She had good news: all the family had survived unhurt, and their homes were undamaged. “Waking up on my birthday knowing that everybody was alive and okay was the best birthday present that I could ever have,” Morris said.
Sanders still has aunts and uncles in Hart County. "Luckily, none of them were hurt," he said. "But the tornado took out some barns within a couple of hundred yards of where they live."
Sanders is quick to praise the nationwide response disaster relief program. "It's incredible that labor unions are sacrificing and making commitments to help people they don't even know."
He explained, "We are processing everything through the United Way of Kentucky, which encompasses the entire state. They are in our office."
Sanders said his role "is bringing people together. For example, I am also a UAW member. We have a local (2164) there in Bowling Green at the Corvette plant."
Parts of Bowling Green also sustained severe tornado damage. So Sanders reached out to Kelsey Bragg with Local 2164. "She's going to be an advocate for us by going out and seeking families and letting people know that to utilize these funds, they need to apply for them."
Said Taylor, who lives in Midway, which the tornadoes spared: “It is extremely rewarding to help our union brothers and sisters and their families in their time of need. It’s been amazing to see the resiliency of those impacted and the selflessness they express. Often when we tell them that the funds are available to them, they tell us to give the money to someone else in greater need.”
Besides dispatching financial and other aid, Morris and Taylor supply important information, such as how to get help from federal and state agencies and where to find housing, food, clothing and other supplies.
Union members harmed by the tornadoes can apply for Union Member Disaster Relief assistance by filling out an online form that’s on the state AFL-CIO website. Clicking on “DISASTER” will take them to the form: https://ky.aflcio.org/disaster
The form also has a link for donations. Checks with "Union Disaster Relief" in the memo line may be mailed to: United Way of Kentucky, P.O. Box 4653, Louisville, KY 40204-0653.
Morris said it may take from two to five years for the devastated areas to rebuild and recover fully. “But we are going to keep on assisting folks until our funds run out.”
The fund got a big boost last month when the UAW chipped in $134,000 to the United Way of Kentucky. "We are our brothers' keepers. We are our sisters' keepers," Louisville WDRB TV quoted Mark Dowell, a member of UAW Local 862 and UAW Region 8 Southeastern CAP representative and Retired Workers CAP representative. "When one of us hurts, we need to jump in and help each other...we love each other just like brothers and sisters in our own family. So if somebody...needs help, we're going to be there for them. So that's what makes me a proud union member today, and I will die a proud union member."
Jeff Wiggins, state AFL-CIO secretary-treasurer, and Jerald Adkins, president of Working Strategies LLC, are two of many others who are helping with the program.
Wiggins, from Reidland, a Paducah suburb, said the Union Member Disaster Relief effort is more proof that “union people have good hearts. They give until they can’t give any more. They volunteer their time, their services, their expertise. Labor steps up to the plate to help communities.”
He and Adkins, from Frankfort, have traveled throughout western Kentucky helping distribute aid and videoing the destruction. "Upon awakening on Dec. 11 and seeing news clip after news clip of the devastating tornado damage in western Kentucky the night before, I knew immediately that I needed to do something to help all of the union members who had lost cars, houses and even family members."
He said Kentucky State AFL-CIO President Bill Londrigan phoned him on Dec. 13. "He said that they needed immediate help in western Kentucky to determine the needs of all the union members who were impacted by the storm and that they were going to partner with the United Way of Kentucky to raise funds for those members impacted."
Adkins soon made the first of many trips to western Kentucky to survey the destruction. "I also visited union members while they were in the process of trying to dig through and salvage sentimental items. I knew that even though we couldn't bring back their houses, every penny raised through the program would be instrumental in helping those folks with immediate relief in paying their mortgage or rent, paying their utility bills, putting food on the table and buying essentials for everyday living."
"It was amazing to see how quickly the fund grew, and it made my heart feel good knowing that 100% of this fund was going to union brothers and sisters and their families who were in desperate need."
This post originally appeared at the Kentucky State AFL-CIO.
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 03/15/2022 - 09:29Women's History Month Profiles: Jaclyn Agredano
This year, for Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Jaclyn Agredano of the Utility Workers (UWUA).
Jaclyn Agredano is a leader with UWUA Local 132 who is stepping up to build her leadership skills in a male-dominated field. She attended UWUA's Train the Trainer program in July. Agredano is a shop steward and was recently appointed chair of the Women’s Caucus Committee of Local 132.
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 03/14/2022 - 10:00Service + Solidarity Spotlight: Actors’ Equity Releases Report on Diversity and Inclusion
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.
Actors’ Equity Association (Equity) has issued a report tracking the demographics of how its members are hired for acting and stage management work, and how much they were paid during 2020. The study, entitled Theatre at a Crossroads: Hiring Bias and Wage Gaps in 2020, found that there were persistent job and pay gaps for its members of color. It also revealed that male workers were paid more than their female and nonbinary counterparts for the same amount of work.
“We are disappointed by the realities of the data: while there was some incremental progress here and there in 2020, the theatre fell far short of fulfilling its promises of diverse and inclusive hiring,” said Kate Shindle, president of Equity. “We call on everyone who makes hiring and pay decisions in the theatre to demonstrate their commitment through their actions as well as their words.”
Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 03/14/2022 - 09:28Women's History Month Profiles: Bobbi Stover
This year, for Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Bobbi Stover of the Mine Workers (UMWA).
Bobbi Stover is a UMWA nurse at New River Health. "I love being a member of the UMWA because I have a voice in my workplace that I otherwise would not have. Being in the union ensures that I have a seat at the table when it comes to my wages and benefits," Stover said.
Kenneth Quinnell Sun, 03/13/2022 - 09:36Women's History Month Profiles: Helena Thornton
This year, for Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Helena Thornton of the Machinists (IAM).
Helena Thornton is the first woman president of IAM Victory Lodge 1725 in Charlotte, N.C. A member of the North Carolina State AFL-CIO's Carolina Labor School Class of 2014, Thornton has been a shop steward, recording secretary and auditor in her union. "I'm truly a full-blown machinist," said Thornton, always eager to talk about the benefits and power that come from being in a union, even to her kids and grandkids. "They'll say, 'Everything you say is union,' because it is! If you don't have a union, it's going to be hard for you."
Kenneth Quinnell Sat, 03/12/2022 - 09:28
