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For Immediate Release: April 16, 2024
Contact: Cheyenne Schoen, (412) 562-2446, cschoen@usw.org 

(PITTSBURGH) – United Steelworkers (USW) International President David McCall released the following statement today in response to the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) publication of a final rule updating standards to reduce worker exposure to silica dust:

“The USW welcomes the new rule on silica dust exposure. After the previous administration failed to act on this recognized hazard, our union is grateful that President Joe Biden and his administration once again are prioritizing workers’ health and safety.

“This rule will improve the working conditions and the quality of life for all workers covered under MSHA in the United States. By setting a low permissible exposure limit for silica dust, the new rule will help current miners and future generations of mine workers stay healthy on the job.

“The new ancillary requirements will help miners and other workers under MSHA’s jurisdiction, like those at cement plants, to identify high-hazard areas and the controls needed to reduce miners’ exposure to harmful silica dust. These provisions will allow workers to identify health issues earlier and lead to healthier and safer lives for all American mine workers.

“With this new rule, MSHA has taken a major step forward in making life better for American mine workers, on and off the job.”

The USW represents 850,000 workers employed in metals, mining, pulp and paper, rubber, chemicals, glass, auto supply and the energy-producing industries, along with a growing number of workers in health care, public sector, higher education, tech and service occupations.

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Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Wichita Nurses Ratify First-Ever Union Contracts at Ascension Hospitals

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

Registered nurses (RNs) at two Ascension-owned hospitals in Wichita, Kansas, voted overwhelmingly in favor of ratifying new two-year contracts. The RNs, represented by National Nurses Organizing Committee/National Nurses United (NNOC/NNU), voted 96% in favor of the contract at Ascension Via Christi St. Francis, and 100% at Ascension Via Christi St. Joseph. The RNs went on strike twice and threatened a third strike, if necessary. Highlights of the contract include safe staffing levels, improved safety guidelines for patients and nurses, and improved compensation and a transparent wage scale based on years of experience.

“This is a historic day for our union, our patients, our hospitals, and the entire city of Wichita,” said Shelly Rader, RN in the emergency department at St. Francis. “We’ve shown Ascension that nurses won’t back down when it comes to fighting for better patient care and better working conditions. We organized to fight for and win a strong contract, and we’re very excited to announce we’ve done just that now that nurses have approved this contract.”

Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 04/16/2024 - 07:35

We Need Shared Governance Back: The Working People Weekly List

Every week, we bring you a roundup of the top news and commentary about issues and events important to working families. Here’s the latest edition of the Working People Weekly List.

New Rule Would Stop Civil Service from Turning into Spoils System: “‘One reason for the stability of our federal government is federal employees continue doing their jobs and serving the American public even as political administrations come and go,’ said AFGE President Everett Kelley after OPM formally published its new rule on April 8. ‘Turning positions that demand technical expertise into political appointments filled based on partisan loyalty would undermine this fundamental tenet of our government and lead to chaos and corruption. Such actions would undermine our democratic, nonpartisan government and take us back to the 19th century when civil servants were hired based on political loyalty rather than professional ability.’”

Berea College Student Body, Administration Prepare for Vote on Potential Student Workers’ Labor Union: “Last month, student workers at Berea College announced their plans to organize a labor union—the first at any Work College in the country. Members of the United Student Workers of Berea are organizing for a number of reasons, including higher wages, negotiable job contracts and a formal grievance system. The group filed with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) in mid-March to hold a unionization vote. More than 1,300 undergraduate students would be represented. If the vote passes, they will be able to start negotiations with the school’s administration. Maggie Neal is a junior at Berea College and union organizer.”

UAOU Unites for Unionization Amid University’s Delays: “The United Academics of Ohio University, or UAOU, organized a solidarity event and discussion of the current state of unionizing at the Scripps Hall Amphitheater on Wednesday from noon to 1 p.m. to show OU leadership that faculty are ready to vote for unionization. Around 50 faculty members attended the event, sporting red UAOU buttons and holding signs expressing their reasons for advocating for unionization. ‘I want a union at OU to stop admin bullying and to ensure a better learning environment,’ read one sign. Other signs featured on UAOU’s Instagram state reasons for unionization such as, ‘Our working conditions are student learning conditions’ and ‘We need shared governance back!’ The gathering highlighted unity among various union groups present, including the Association of People Supporting Employment First, or APSE, and the International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers.”

U.S. Senate Backs Repeal of NLRB 'Joint Employer' Rule, Teeing Up Biden Veto: “The U.S. Senate on Wednesday narrowly approved a proposal, which President Joe Biden has vowed to veto, to repeal a National Labor Relations Board rule that would treat companies as the employers of many of their contract and franchise workers and require them to bargain with those workers' unions. The Senate, which is controlled by Democrats, passed the resolution in a 50-48 vote.”

Smith College Library Staff Unionizes: “On Tuesday, more than 40 Smith College library staffers did something that only 6% of private-sector workers in the United States can claim: joined a union. Locally, however, the workers who voted unanimously to join the Office and Professional Employees International Union are far from alone. So far, 2024 is already shaping up to be the biggest year in recent memory for union organizing in western Massachusetts. Federal data from the National Labor Relations Board show that at least 477 workers have unionized this year in the region—more than in any previous year since at least 2019. And it’s higher-ed workers who have driven that trend.”

Partners Coffee Workers Holding Vote to Join UFCW: “Workers at Partners Coffee in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, will vote this week on whether to join the United Food and Commercial Workers Local 1500, nearly two years after workers first started organizing at the shop. If the 22 baristas, roasters, production workers and kitchen employees vote to unionize on Thursday, they’ll join a wave of young workers at other coffee shops like Starbucks and Blank Street Coffee that have unionized since the pandemic.”

8 Ways the Biden Administration Is Improving the Lives of Service Workers: “The Biden administration is raising pay, building power, and improving living standards for service workers across the economy—including fast-food cooks, call center workers, teachers, home care workers, and federal employees. The Biden administration has received ongoing attention for its actions to improve the lives of blue collar workers—from walking the picket line with striking autoworkers to ensuring that its signature investments in American industry create good jobs. Pundits and the press often point to actions to expand and raise standards in the construction and manufacturing sectors as central to the Biden administration’s economic agenda. Yet the administration has also taken numerous steps to boost the earnings and wealth of service sector workers, empower them to come together in unions, and hold accountable corporations that violate their rights.”

Biden Promotes 'Care Economy' Spending in Speech to Care Workers: “President Joe Biden called for increased pay for care workers, and guaranteed paid leave for those who care for family members, in a speech Tuesday at Washington, D.C.'s Union Station. Biden highlighted his administration's investments in what he called the care economy, before a group of caregivers that included representatives from the AFL-CIO, AARP and National Domestic Workers Alliance.”

Biden Announces Student Debt Relief for Millions in Swing-State Pitch: “President Biden on Monday announced a large-scale effort to help pay off federal student loans for tens of millions of American borrowers, seeking an election-year boost by returning to a 2020 campaign promise that was blocked by the Supreme Court last year. Biden’s new plan would reduce the amount that 25 million borrowers still owe on their undergraduate and graduate loans. It would wipe away the entire amount for more than 4 million Americans. Altogether, White House officials said, 10 million borrowers would see debt relief of $5,000 or more.”

Rebuild the Key Bridge with Local Union Labor: “As the city of Baltimore and the wider region grapple with the aftermath of an unthinkable tragedy, we must mourn the six men who lost their lives in the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse last month, and never forget how fragile life can be, especially on a job site—any job site. We also must recognize that we are at a crossroads. How we choose to rebuild will shape the physical landscape of our city and define our commitment to our workers, our communities and our children. We must seize this moment as an opportunity to rebuild responsibly, safely. We must rebuild with a highly trained local workforce that is paid prevailing wages. And we must rebuild around responsible union contractors who partner with minority-owned businesses.”

The Rize Event Center Joins UNITE HERE Local 74: “The Rize Event Center, a new full-service catering and restaurant facility, has joined UNITE HERE Local 74....The restaurant is open two nights a week on Mondays and Wednesdays. ‘Our goal is to connect families, people and community at a price they can afford,’ said owner Betsey Mitchell. ‘We decided to open the restaurant two days a week to make ends meet, and it’s been a big hit.’ Mitchell, who’s owned restaurants with her mother in the past, said she was delighted to learn there was a union for hospitality workers in the St. Louis area. She’s a former teacher at St. Louis Public Schools and was a member of AFT Local 420, and her husband was a 25-year member of Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 562.”

Absent Radical Labor Law Reform the Nation Could Be In Trouble: “Unions and labor activists have been warning that unless labor law is updated corporations will take advantage of the current law and its loopholes to set back progress on countless issues important to Americans. Current labor law, for example, allows bosses to drag their feet for years, at times, in negotiations with workers. Bill Samuel says, that when it comes to a top issue such as comprehensive pro-worker labor law reform, you have to take the long view about accomplishing it. Make that the very long view, as in decades. Which is what Samuel has done as the AFL-CIO Government Affairs Director for almost 24 years. He’ll retire soon.”

Autoworkers at Alabama’s Mercedes-Benz Plant File for a Union Election: “Mercedes-Benz workers in Vance, Alabama, will vote on whether to join the United Auto Workers (UAW). On Friday, the UAW filed for an election to represent all 5,200 of the plant’s hourly employees, after the union said a supermajority of workers at the company’s mammoth plant signed union cards in three months. Jeremy Kimbrell, a measurement machine operator at the plant, said as part of the UAW’s announcement: ‘At Mercedes, at Hyundai and at hundreds of other companies, Alabama workers have made billions of dollars for executives and shareholders, but we haven’t gotten our fair share. We’re going to turn things around with this vote. We’re going to end the Alabama discount.’”

UVM Graduate Students Form a Union to Bargain for Better Pay and Benefits: “Last week, University of Vermont graduate students voted 373-9 to form a union in an election involving nearly two-thirds of the students in the bargaining unit. Among the top priorities for the students will be better pay and health care benefits, which currently don't cover vision or dental. ‘I'm personally excited not just about increased pay but the health benefits,’ said Neil Traft, a second-year doctoral student in the complex systems and data science program. ‘A huge thing for me is dental and vision. I need work done on my wisdom teeth. I wear glasses and contacts. It will affect me directly.’”

Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 04/15/2024 - 10:34

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Machinists Local 811 Gives Back to Houston Shelter

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

Every year, the Machinists (IAM) Local 811 Women’s Committee does a community service event in Houston. This year, the committee chose the Mission of Yahweh, which is a sanctuary for homeless women and children.

“We contacted the shelter to find out what their needs were,” said Local 811 Women’s Committee Chair Sarah Monderoy Garcia. “When we held our membership appreciation day, we asked every member to bring three items, and from there, we kept it going as long as we could.”

They delivered hundreds of dollars worth of canned goods, baby food, diapers, wipes and women’s clothing.

“My thanks go out to our membership, the Chair of the Community Services Committee, Roderick Lightfoot, and Women’s Committee member Evelita Iveritt,” Garcia said. “We’re always looking for a way to give back, and their efforts helped make this all come together, from collecting goods to delivering them. Without their assistance and contributions, this wouldn’t have been a successful outcome.”

Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 04/15/2024 - 09:52

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Arizona Labor Unions Host Successful Citizenship Fair, with More in the Works

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

Arizona labor organizers, union members, immigration lawyers and their clients filled the Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT) Local 86 hall in Phoenix last month for the Arizona AFL-CIO’s inaugural citizenship fair.

Nearly two dozen applicants worked closely with lawyers and union volunteers to fill out applications for naturalization, known as the N-400, to complete their last step to becoming a U.S. citizen. Once those forms were complete, attendees were directed to head straight to the post office to mail them off to avoid a higher filing fee. The Arizona AFL-CIO has been planning this free community fair for around three months, with more planned for the future, and every volunteer was a local union member. Organizers noted that, for a number of applicants, they were motivated to become naturalized citizens in order to finally have a say in the election process, which often decides where their tax dollars go.

Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 04/12/2024 - 10:09

Renee Hough has been a member of USW Local 1557 at U.S. Steel Clairton Coke Works in southwestern Pennsylvania for 27 years. She works as a utility technician, or loader; it’s a job that Hough loves and that came along at the right time, and saved her life.

As Hough prepares to retire in less than two years, she finds herself looking back on her decision to leave an abusive marriage more than two decades ago. At the time, she knew she needed a good-paying job that would provide her the resources to leave and take her kids with her, and her job then as a cook at Denny’s wasn’t cutting it.

Then she saw an advertisement announcing that U.S. Steel was hiring in Clairton. It seemed like it was written in the stars, as getting the job would make her a fourth-generation union member.

“I needed better pay and security so I could remove myself from that situation,” Hough said.

A LIFE-CHANGING PROCESS

She got the job and began saving money. Seven months in, she was well on her way when her husband beat her so badly she had to spend a night in the hospital. Hough’s mother convinced her that this incident was a turning point she could not ignore. The next day, Renee moved in with her mother and began the process of divorcing her husband.

“I wouldn’t have been able to leave if I didn’t have my job to fall back on,” Hough said. “I owe both the union and my mother so much for that.”

What followed was a pain-staking year involving lots of counseling, court hearings, and other appointments. Hough believes unions can and should use their bargaining power to add language into contracts that allows time off for survivors of domestic violence for this reason.

Some local unions in recent years have done exactly this, including Local 2699 in Ontario, Canada. The USW’s Raising the Bar on Women’s Health and Safety action guide can be a resource for other locals looking to do the same thing.

Hough, who serves as chair of her local’s Women of Steel Committee, believes that this topic needs to be discussed more because of the shame and stigma that can go along with it, especially for men. She also wants other survivors to know they aren’t alone.

“If my story helps just one person, then it’s worth it,” Hough said.

When she isn’t working, Hough loves to bowl and spend time with her family, especially her three grandchildren.

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If you or a loved one are experiencing domestic violence in the United States, you can contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE, or 7233. Additionally, teen survivors of domestic abuse can call Love Is Respect, a dedicated hotline for minors, at 1-866-331-9474.

You can also reach out to USW District 1 Assistant to the Director Teresa Cassady, who has offered to be a safe and nonjudgmental ear for members experiencing abuse, at tcassady@usw.org.  

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Wisconsin Gov. Evers Protects Child Labor Law with Senate Bill 436 Veto

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

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers delivered remarks Monday at the Wisconsin State Council of Machinists’ 2024 spring conference in Madison and vetoed S.B. 436, which would have eliminated the requirement that employers obtain a work permit in order to employ 14- or 15-year-olds.

The work permit process keeps young workers safer at work through parental oversight and gives critical information about where kids work and what jobs they’re doing to Wisconsin’s Department of Workforce Development, so it can better enforce child labor laws. In 2017, then-Gov. Scott Walker, a national disgrace, signed a bill passed by fellow Republicans in the state Legislature that eliminated the work permit requirements for 16- and 17-year-olds. The bill Evers vetoed would have expanded and built on this exemption.

“Governor Evers continues to stand up for the safety of our kids by protecting child labor law in Wisconsin,” said Wisconsin State AFL-CIO President Stephanie Bloomingdale. “The dangerous push to weaken child labor law in Wisconsin and across the country comes at a time when more children are harmed at work or work hazardous jobs.”

“Eliminating these permits would have been a reckless gamble with the well-being of young people,” said Machinists (IAM) International President Brian Bryant in a press release. “Work permits are not merely red tape. They are essential shields protecting our children from exploitation, unsafe conditions, and disrupted education. By vetoing this bill, Gov. Evers has shown clear leadership in prioritizing the safety and welfare of Wisconsin’s future workforce.” 

Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 04/11/2024 - 10:01

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Austin Pets Alive Workers File to Become Nation’s Largest Animal Shelter Union

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

Austin Pets Alive (APA) animal shelter employees in Texas filed to form a union with Machinists (IAM) District 776 on Thursday, taking a first step toward creating the largest animal shelter union in the country. Austin Pets Allied Workers (APAW) members are calling for voluntary recognition from management. Their core bargaining goals include implementing policies supporting the well-being and safety of both animals and workers, increasing wages, improving benefits, and codifying fair employment practices.

“I want to join with my co-workers to form a union because workers like me who are on the front lines of animal care deserve to feel safe and supported in our mission-fulfilling work at APA,” said Ryan Martinez, an APA staff member. “I know that a strong union contract negotiated by affected employees is the best way to make that happen, which will ultimately improve conditions for the animals in our care.”

Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 04/10/2024 - 10:10

Fighting for Respect: In the States Roundup

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

Alabama AFL-CIO:

Tent going up for our 14th annual Legislative Appreciation Day. pic.twitter.com/GHOisF8gXA

— Alabama AFL-CIO (@AlabamaAFLCIO) April 3, 2024

Alaska AFL-CIO:

It's been over a year since the House State Affairs Committee had one meaningful conversation on defined benefit pensions. #akleg

Send an email to members of the House State Affairs Committee to demand a hearing today!https://t.co/yRAKHBBCE0

— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) April 8, 2024

Arizona AFL-CIO:

Workers at #SkyHarborAirport have been fighting tirelessly for nearly 7 months for a fair contract. They’re demanding livable wages, affordable health insurance, pensions, for workloads, and above all, RESPECT. pic.twitter.com/S7QYz50uX3

— Arizona AFL-CIO (@ArizonaAFLCIO) April 4, 2024

California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:

Shaping the future of work for Californians couldn’t be more urgent.

Our #caleg package prioritizes jobs > AI/automation; labor standards on public $s; strong public services & worker rights on the job.

Read our 2024 legislative priorities press release: https://t.co/VLWuoq8ETv pic.twitter.com/Wg5Ym3HQzg

— California Labor Federation (@CaliforniaLabor) April 3, 2024

Colorado AFL-CIO:

We’re proud to endorse Bryan Lindstrom for HD 36 and want to thank our members for joining and guiding our interviews for endorsement! #coleg #copols pic.twitter.com/QsCstqZWpN

— Colorado AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOCO) April 5, 2024

Connecticut AFL-CIO:

HAPPENING NOW: @RepJohnLarson is announcing new $462 million federal investment in F135 modernization, which supports thousands of Connecticut manufacturing jobs! The @MachinistsUnion builds the best jet engines in the world. pic.twitter.com/AhjlqUioWG

— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) April 4, 2024

Florida AFL-CIO:

Florida has the HIGHEST number of teaching vacancies in the nation! https://t.co/8JtzkAwW94

— Florida AFL-CIO (@FLAFLCIO) April 9, 2024

Illinois AFL-CIO:

Proud of the IL AFL-CIO's Resource Director Amy Rueff who received the Decatur Trades + Labor Assembly's lifetime achievement award.

Amy got her first union card at 18 when she went from making $3.35 to $6.50 an hour + weekends off. She has not looked back since!#1u pic.twitter.com/PMmt5RR9jb

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

Kentucky State AFL-CIO:

New Bill, Same Stink
Don't let them repeal KY's Child Labor Laws with Frankfort Tricks
In a last minute attempt to pass this bad legislation, Reps in the KY House are seeking to amend SB 369 to include the bad language of HB 255 in an innocuous Senate Billhttps://t.co/eCIs0pXzRw pic.twitter.com/xxWq9Rda9v

— Kentucky AFL-CIO (@aflcioky) March 27, 2024

Maine AFL-CIO:

Protect mail delivery! #Savethepostoffice https://t.co/7A1Am59cBo

— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) April 9, 2024

Massachusetts AFL-CIO:

Nursing home workers deserve substantial wage increases, affordable healthcare, and safety to continue the best care to residents. Join @UFCW1445 tomorrow and show your support for nursing home workers. pic.twitter.com/3C1ow5qp1q

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

Michigan State AFL-CIO:

April is National Volunteer Month, a month dedicated to celebrating community leaders like union member Abigail Baum, who received last year's Walt Campbell Community Service Award.https://t.co/FW1RYbRdCl

— Michigan AFL-CIO ✊ (@MIAFLCIO) April 2, 2024

Minnesota AFL-CIO:

Workers at Indeed Brewing Co. Just Formed a Union https://t.co/aBYvOiVFnw Another #union brewery in Minnesota! @unitehere17 #1u

— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) April 7, 2024

Missouri AFL-CIO:

#GoUnion, get more. #1u #UnionWages #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/mMAhOURDSE

— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) April 4, 2024

Montana State AFL-CIO:

Railroad workers are joining together to protect safety on the job and the safety of our communities! 
Thanks to the advocacy of @SMARTunionTD, @BLET, and @TTDAFLCIO the Transportation Department finalized a rule this week requiring two-person crews on railroads. #1u

— Montana AFL-CIO (@MTaflcio) April 5, 2024

Nevada State AFL-CIO:

The @northernnvlabor put on an amazing Cesar Chavez Celebration Day last night. Our two principal officers spoke about the importance of engaging the Latino community along with Business Manager Eloy Jara with @liuna Local 169. pic.twitter.com/9asm9NVM9l

— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) April 6, 2024

New Hampshire AFL-CIO:

“Right-to-Work” is up for a vote by the @TheNHSenate today. Thank you, to our Brothers and Sisters for coming out today to show our Senators that “Right-to-Work” is STILL WRONG for NH!#NHPolitics #Solidarity #1u pic.twitter.com/6TLa3f5qoK

— New Hampshire AFL-CIO (@NHAFLCIO) April 5, 2024

New York State AFL-CIO:

Still need to do your taxes? You may be eligible to file online for free with IRS Direct File: https://t.co/bbhhd1OB8d pic.twitter.com/TRdfp0soRB

— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) April 5, 2024

Ohio AFL-CIO:

Generations of workers, including you, are better because @AFLCIO #Union workers of the past risked and some gave their life so you could write stupid sh*t like this, then enjoy the weekend and ensure your kids aren't in a factory instead of public schools. Worst. Take. Ever. https://t.co/yWyq6FFvgh

— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) April 8, 2024

Oregon AFL-CIO:

Have you joined our mailing list? Sign up now to get the latest updates about strikes, rallies, and actions across Oregon.

Together we will keep Oregon #UnionStrong ✊https://t.co/eJ2LJ30qiD pic.twitter.com/p0mLTzUv8J

— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) April 8, 2024

Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:

One small step for gamers, one giant leap for techkind —Congratulations to the Sega union who became the nation's first major video game company to get a signed union contract. #PowerToThePeople #1uhttps://t.co/Y7VoFV1j4A

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

Rhode Island AFL-CIO:

WJAR agrees to pay workers time and a half on Sundays https://t.co/bebLSCsTtu via @BostonGlobe

— Rhode Island AFL-CIO (@riaflcio) April 9, 2024

Tennessee AFL-CIO Labor Council:

We can see the light at the end of the legislative tunnel, but we've still got a few more weeks to go.

With TN's statewide voucher scheme in jeopardy, click below to take action and ask your lawmakers to vote "NO" on this disastrous plan! #TNLeg #1uhttps://t.co/MxNOks0IsN

— Tennessee AFL-CIO (@tnaflcio) April 8, 2024

Texas AFL-CIO:

We joined members of ⁦@AustinNewsGuild⁩ as they began a planned four-day strike against the Austin American-Statesman. Talks toward a first contract are about to hit the 3-year mark. Outrageous. Gannett needs to bring good faith to bargaining table. #1u #SolidarityForever pic.twitter.com/RP3EEyV14E

— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) April 5, 2024

Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:

Solidarity with Port Angeles paraeducators on strike today! 

The district needs to settle a fair contract and allow paraeducators to get back to doing their job — supporting students. @washingtonea https://t.co/dkxMpjgIi1

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

Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:

Gov. Evers Vetoes Republican-Backed Bill to Roll Back Child Labor Protections, Bring More Kids into State’s Workforce https://t.co/8mOebGMkMQ

— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) April 8, 2024

Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 04/09/2024 - 10:18

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Los Angeles City Workers Ratify Contracts with Robust Wage Increases

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

Six AFSCME locals representing more than 10,000 Los Angeles City workers ratified new contracts with robust wage increases and other benefits. AFSCME locals 741, 901, 2006, 2626, 3090 and 3672 began negotiations with the city in August 2023 as a part of the Coalition of Los Angeles City Unions, which negotiates benefits for all Los Angeles city employees represented by AFSCME, the Laborers (LIUNA), the Operating Engineers (IUOE), the Los Angeles/Orange County Building Trades, Service Employees International Union (SEIU), and the Teamsters. Union members ratified the tentative agreements in March. 

The workers secured a 22% cost-of-living adjustment over the five-year life of the contract, allows members to cash out all of their unused sick time from their 100% sick time bank when they retire, increases the minimum pay of employees to $25 per hour by 2026, provides 12 weeks of parental leave, allows workers to cash out unused personal leave at the end of each calendar year, among other benefits.

“I have been with the city for 20 years, and never have I had a contract of this magnitude,” said Larry Gates, president of Local 3090. “In speaking with my members, almost all are overwhelmingly excited and grateful for the hard work and dedication of the negotiations committee.”

Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 04/09/2024 - 10:00

Reinvigorating the Labor Movement: 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.

Rail Unions Hail Biden’s Two-Person Crew Mandate: “The nation’s rail unions and the AFL-CIO’s Transportation Trades Department are hailing the Biden administration’s final rule mandating two-person crews on all but a few of the nation’s freight trains. The rule, strenuously opposed by the nation’s freight railroads, orders a minimum two-person crew—the engineer and the conductor—on all freight trains, especially those miles-long trains the nation’s big Class I railroads run. The unions have lobbied for two-person crews, both at the Transportation Department, the parent agency of the FRA, and on Capitol Hill, for years, but the rail lobby has always blocked congressional action. And it convinced the GOP Trump regime’s FRA to allow one-person crews, as a money-saver.”

Austin Pets Alive Workers File to Become Nation’s Largest Animal Shelter Union: “On Thursday, Austin Pets Alive! (APA) animal shelter employees filed to become the largest animal shelter union in the country, according to a news release. The release said APA employees filed a representation petition with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) requesting recognition of their union, Austin Pets Allied Workers (APAW). The release said the majority of approximately 200 APA workers signed union cards with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, along with support from the National Veterinary Professionals Union.”

Harvard Law School Academic Workers Vote 62-3 to Unionize: “Harvard Law School clinical workers voted 62-3 on Wednesday in favor of unionizing under Harvard Academic Workers-United Auto Workers. Out of 110 eligible voters in the unit, 80 percent showed up to the polls at Roscoe Pound Hall, despite the rainy weather. After the votes were certified with the National Labor Relations Board Wednesday evening, HAW-UAW Clinical can move forward in negotiations with Harvard. In addition to the 65 official votes cast, 12 workers also voted under challenge.”

IATSE Sees Fears and Promise of Artificial Intelligence: ‘We Want the Spoils’: “When the Writers Guild of America went on strike last May, union leaders argued that artificial intelligence posed an existential threat to writers, painting a picture of a dystopian future in which TV shows might be crafted by one writer and a machine. Ten months later, the tone in Hollywood labor circles has shifted significantly. At a March 3 rally in Los Angeles, Matthew Loeb, international president of IATSE, argued that AI has the potential to make union members’ jobs easier. ‘We want some of the spoils of artificial intelligence,‘ Loeb said.”

Philly College Adjuncts Fight for Stability: “To draw attention to the struggles of adjunct or ‘contingent‘ faculty, instructors from Temple, University of the Arts, Community College of Philadelphia and several other schools will hold a rally outside City Hall on Friday with state Sen. Nikil Saval, state Rep. Rick Krajewski, and other supporters. ‘We’re keeping the focus on how the most vulnerable faculty are not only experiencing all of the instability and the political pressures that have been leveled at higher ed, but they’re also the ones bearing the brunt of these unnecessary cuts,‘ said Bradley Philbert, an adjunct at UArts and an officer with the United Academics of Philadelphia, an affiliate of the American Federation of Teachers union.”

MAGA House Republicans Attack Workers Again: “The Republican House majority on the Education and the Workforce Committee—ideologues for whom ‘Labor‘ in its title was a dirty word so they removed it–attacked workers again. This time, they approved House Joint Resolution 116, the equivalent of a law if a president signs it, would abolish the Biden Administration Labor Department’s new rule that makes it much tougher for shady businesses to misclassify their workers as ‘independent contractors.‘ The committee OK’d it on a party-line vote on March 21, just before lawmakers skipped town for another of their many two-week recesses. In its place: A Trump-era rule which gives those bosses a much freer hand, and lets them deprive workers of the right to organize, while cutting ‘labor costs‘ for the crooks in half, one estimate says. HJRes 116 would enshrine the anti-worker Trump rule forever. Trump’s ‘rule unfairly tipped the scales toward businesses rather than the workers DOL is supposed to protect,‘ the unions and their allies retorted in a joint letter to House and Senate legislative leaders, anticipating floor fights on this Republican brainstorm.”

East Bank Redevelopment Project Update: Master Developer, Labor Union Strike Deal: “This memorandum of understanding between Fallon and Laborers' International Union of North America Local 386, also known as LIUNA, strengthens worker pay and security protections, said Ethan Link, vice president of LIUNA Local 386. The Madison-based union represents construction workers and Vanderbilt University service workers. Workforce development apprenticeship programs are key to the union's efforts to keep job sites active with limited labor supply.”

How a Union Battle Could Decide Who Wins the U.S. Senate: “Tim Burga, president of the Ohio branch of the AFL-CIO—America's largest federation of unions—told Newsweek that once organized labor mobilizes around a candidate, unions can tap into their extensive networks and existing infrastructure, to spread political messages. Through worksite outreach campaigns, door-to-door volunteers, and manpower to deploy traditional campaign mailers, unions can play a pivotal part in turning out voters. With Brown's robust labor record, Burga expects him to garner support across the board, saying, ‘I couldn't even quantify. It's really strong.‘”

Barnes & Noble Workers Plan Union Drive at Largest U.S. Bookstore Chain: “Workers at America’s largest chain of bookstores are gearing up for a nationwide union drive after six Barnes & Noble outlets voted to organize over the past year. ‘Many more‘ stores will unionize, according to booksellers demanding better pay and conditions. At locations that already have, employees accuse the chain’s management of dragging their heels during contract negotiations. James Daunt, the CEO, is said to have embarked upon a months-long campaign to dissuade employees from voting in favor.”

Liz Shuler Wants AI to Reinvigorate the Labor Movement: “Liz Shuler was standing inside a university lab one day a few years ago when she saw the future of everything—in a cutting board. At the time Shuler was secretary-treasurer of the AFL-CIO, one of America’s most storied labor organizations, and she’d come to Pittsburgh’s Carnegie Mellon University with a delegation that included members of Unite Here, the union representing hundreds of thousands of workers in the hospitality industry. Their mission: to get a glimpse at how technology might impact the workplace in the years ahead. It didn’t take long before that impact became clear, at least in the kitchen. One of the professors at CMU, a school known for its prowess in technology and design, was demonstrating a cutting-edge cutting board that was able to measure how fast someone sliced vegetables, as well as the quality of their motion.”

Major Nebraska Labor Federation Backs U.S. Senate Candidate Dan Osborn: “Independent U.S. Senate candidate Dan Osborn has announced significant endorsements from major Nebraska unions for his campaign, along with the achievement of collecting enough signatures to qualify for the November ballot. Osborn, a U.S. Navy and Nebraska Army National Guard veteran and steamfitter from Omaha, was joined by local union leaders/members at the Steamfitters & Plumbers Local Union #464 in Omaha on his lunch break to make the announcement Thursday. At the event, the Nebraska State AFL-CIO—the state chapter representing the federation of labor unions in the United States—announced their support for Osborn in the U.S. Senate race, challenging incumbent Senator Deb Fischer. ‘…because we know he will be a champion for working people,‘ said Lori J. Meyers, Communications Director/Mobilization Coordinator for the Nebraska State AFL-CIO. ‘Osborn has proven that he will fight to ensure that workers have a voice in the workplace, protect, and strengthen labor standards and expand employment protections. Our affiliates believe that Dan Osborn is the right person to represent working people in the U.S. Senate.‘”

‘The Right to Organize Is on the Line,’ Casey Says as He Picks Up Labor Endorsement: “Shortly after thanking dozens of trade union members and leaders for endorsing his reelection bid, U.S. Sen. Bob Casey, D-Pa., stood near a wall-size mural of an overalls-clad working man gazing past the Pittsburgh skyline and concluded the 2024 election cycle could be summed up in one word: rights. ‘If you and I were having this conversation, say, 15-20 years ago, and you were saying this election would be about women’s rights, workers’ rights and voting rights, I’d have said, ‘Well, that’s not where the election’s going to be because those rights are settled,’ Casey said. ‘But now those three rights are on the line, in this election. His specific focus on this day: workers’ rights. Dressed in jeans and a gray pullover, Casey made his argument to a friendly crowd—he was visiting the Plumbers Union Local 27 headquarters in North Fayette, a suburb west of Pittsburgh, to receive the endorsement of the Pittsburgh Regional Building Trades Council. The council supports 33 local unions representing a broad swath of workers, from carpenters to plasterers to electrical workers to bricklayers.”

Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 04/08/2024 - 10:15

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: DreamWorks Animation Production Workers Vote to Join the Animation and Motion Picture Editors Guilds

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

DreamWorks Animation production workers are joining their artist and technician colleagues in The Animation Guild (Theatrical Stage Employees [IATSE] Local 839) and their editor colleagues are joining the Motion Picture Editors Guild (IATSE Local 700). More than 90 production workers who work on television and feature films voted to join the two IATSE locals, while 41 voted against unionization. The workers include production assistants, production coordinators, post production supervisors and post production assistants, and they have worked on the recent releases like "Kung Fu Panda 4," "Ruby Gillman: Teenage Kraken" and "Trolls Band Together."

“Production workers know what’s best for their roles and lives, and with the recent announcements of significant company policy changes like increased outsourcing and a disallowal of most remote work for production staff, they felt a sense of urgency,” said Animation Guild organizer Allison Smartt.

Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 04/08/2024 - 10:02

Economy Gains 303,000 Jobs in March; Unemployment Down to 3.8%

The U.S. economy gained 303,000 jobs in March, and the unemployment rate was down slightly, to 3.8%, according to figures released Friday morning by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

March's biggest job gains were in health care (+72,000), leisure and hospitality (+49,000), construction (+39,000), retail trade (+18,000), other services industry (+16,000) and social assistance (+9,000). Employment showed little or no change over the month in other major industries, including mining, quarrying and oil and gas extraction; manufacturing; wholesale trade; transportation and warehousing; information; financial activities; and professional and business services. 

Among the major worker groups, the unemployment rate for Black Americans (6.4%) increased in March, while the rates for Hispanics (4.5%) and Asian Americans (2.5%) decreased. The jobless rates for teenagers (12.6%), adult women (3.6%), White Americans (3.4%) and adult men (3.3%) showed little or no change over the month.

The number of long-term unemployed workers (those jobless for 27 weeks or longer) was little changed in March and accounted for 19.5% of the total number of people unemployed.

Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 04/05/2024 - 12:01

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Tillamook Bus Drivers Secure 5-Year Contract

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

Workers at Tillamook County Transportation District in Oregon unanimously ratified a five-year contract that raises starting wages about 22% over the life of the contract. Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 757 represents 26 workers, including drivers, dispatchers and vehicle maintenance employees. Other benefits include adding Juneteenth as a paid holiday, providing workers with five days of paid bereavement leave and doubling the rate of annual vacation accrual for workers in their first two years on the job. 

Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 04/05/2024 - 10:06

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Qantas Airways Aircraft Maintenance Engineers Vote to Join IAM

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

Qantas Airways aircraft maintenance engineers (AMEs) at Los Angeles International Airport overwhelmingly voted to join the Machinists (IAM). The new unit consists of 150 workers.

“I am grateful in being able to serve to bring respect and honor to those fellow mechanics who have honored and respected an old dog trying to learn new tricks,” said Edward Berg, a Qantas AME and lead inside organizer. “This career and field are new to me, and I’m humbled and proud to be working alongside those who really care about their craft. I hope in the upcoming negotiations that management will see the majority of those mechanics who care about their responsibilities and do right by them.”

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

Worker Wins: We Deserve Safe Working Conditions

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

Sega of America Workers Ratify Union Contract, Protecting 150 Employees: Workers at Sega of America have ratified their first collectively bargained contract with the U.S. arm of the multinational video game and entertainment company, setting new standards for the industry. The agreement covers about 150 full-time and temporary employees in a variety of roles, including brand marketing, localization, marketing services, product development, sales and quality assurance (QA). Members of Allied Employees Guild Improving Sega (AEGIS), an affiliate of the Communications Workers of America (CWA), secured important concessions, including base-building raises for all employees, protections against layoffs, a fair grievance process and a commitment to crediting people on games they’ve worked on, including early QA testers, who are often the lowest-paid in the chain of production. 

Museum Workers Ratify Deal with MASS MoCA, Ending Weekslong Strike: After holding the picket line for nearly three weeks, unionized workers at the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA) have successfully ratified a new contract that delivers victories on core member issues. MASS MoCA Union members, who are part of International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America (UAW) Local 2110, voted to approve the two-year deal Tuesday evening after a unanimous endorsement from the bargaining committee. Wins include an increase in base wages to $18 an hour, a 3.5% across-the-board raise, additional holiday pay—as well as overtime pay for shifts lasting longer than 10 hours—and more. 

Medical School Residents at Western Michigan University Vote to Unionize: Over 260 residents and fellow physicians at the Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine (WMed) overwhelmingly voted to form a union as the Resident & Fellow Alliance (RFA), an affiliate of American Federation of Teachers (AFT) Michigan. Medical workers are aiming to create a voice for residents and fellows at WMed in addition to improving patient care, raising salary standards, creating more flexibility in time off and codifying fair educational stipends. Members say that the 60- to 80-hour workweeks they regularly put in aren’t reflected in their pay and that residency programs leave them with few avenues to negotiate over issues such as working conditions. With the union, they’ll have more of a say. 

UNITE HERE Members Ratify New Contract with 34 Southern California Hotels: Thousands of Southern California hospitality workers represented by UNITE HERE Local 11 overwhelmingly voted to ratify a new contract containing historic wins after repeated rolling strikes since the summer of 2023. Workers at 34 hotels, who led the largest hotel strike in modern U.S. history, won higher pay, increased employer contributions to pensions, fair workload guarantees, health care protections and more. This includes room attendants, cooks and other nontipped workers at some of Los Angeles’ most high-end properties, such as the Beverly Hilton and the Waldorf Astoria. By the end of this contract, workers will see a 40%–50% increase in wages, with half of the rise being delivered in the first year of the agreement. 

California AMC Workers Vote to Unionize with IATSE: Workers at the Universal Cinema AMC at CityWalk Hollywood in Universal City, California, have officially voted to unionize with the Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE). Ushers, cooks, bartenders and all other nonmanagement employees of the theater are part of the new bargaining unit. This victory is the second location of the national theater chain to unionize with IATSE; the first was AMC DINE-IN South Bay Galleria 16 in Redondo Beach, California. Staff first filed for their election at the National Labor Relations Board in February, citing concerns with low wages and unfair scheduling practices. 

SAG-AFTRA Members Ratify TV Animation Contracts: In a ratification vote that ended on Friday, SAG-AFTRA members have ratified new three-year television and basic cable animation contracts covering voice actors, with overwhelming support. The new contract provides for 7% wage increases in the first year of the contracts—which will be retroactive to July 1, 2023—and additional increases in the second and third year, establishes Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Juneteenth as contractual holidays and allows SAG-AFTRA to request up to two meetings a year with companies and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers to ensure performers are paid on time. In terms of artificial Intelligence protections, the deal includes strong language that states a “voice actor” can only refer to humans, grants rights to performers when any digital replica is “recognizable” as them, provides foreign residuals when a voice actor’s work is digitally translated into another language and exhibited, and mandates that producers must negotiate with with the union if they use a synthetic voice instead of a voice actor. 

TWU Local Reaches Tentative Agreement with Allegiant Air: Transport Workers Union (TWU) Local 577, representing 1,700 flight attendants working for Allegiant Air, announced a tentative agreement last week on a five-year contract. Bargaining began in August 2022 and would be Local 577’s second-ever contract if ratified. The agreement secures wage increases ranging from 20% to 41.2% for members, with an average wage increase of 25%. In addition to pay bumps, workers also would get improvements to contractual pay credits based on the amount of time a flight attendant spends on duty, yearly pay increases of 3% throughout the life of the contract, lump sum bonuses at ratification, health insurance benefits and improved 401(k) match. 

Shelf Life Books Becomes First Richmond, Virginia, Bookstore to Form a Union: Workers at a popular new and used bookstore in Richmond, Virginia, have officially joined United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 400. Shelf Life Books staff made history as the first unionized bookstore in the city, with the owners choosing to voluntarily recognize the union after every eligible worker signed authorization cards. Members hope that by joining a union, they’ll be able to strengthen the largest independent bookstore in Richmond and improve their job security amid trends in the bookseller industry as corporate giants like Amazon eat into local businesses. 

Nitehawk Cinema Workers in New York Join Union Despite Union-Busting Campaign: After notifying management last month of their intention to organize with the International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America (UAW) Local 2179, workers at Nitehawk Cinema’s Prospect Park location in Brooklyn voted in favor of the union last weekend. Staff at the dine-in theater cited unfair labor practices, unstable pay, harassment and scheduling and safety concerns as core reasons for forming a union. The Nitehawk Workers Union bargaining unit includes full and part-time bartenders, line cooks, food runners, porters and servers. While the Nighthawk owner and management deployed scare tactics, spread misinformation about unions and intimidated staff across departments, workers secured a victory in their election. 

AGMA and Dance Theatre of Harlem Announce Unanimous Union Victory for Dancers: After just over a month since coming forward with their intent to organize, dancers at the Dance Theatre of Harlem (DTH) have won their election to form a union with the American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA). The vote was unanimous and DTH management has publicly stated its intention to work in good faith with AGMA to improve the well-being of its dancers and strengthen the industry as a whole. Established in 1969, Dance Theatre of Harlem holds the distinction of being the first Black classical ballet company. While it used to be an AGMA company, DTH closed its doors in 2004 and severed ties with the union. Then, when it resumed operations in 2012, it reopened as nonunion. 

Oakland Museum of California Workers Win Voluntary Recognition of Union: The Oakland Museum of California voluntarily recognized OMCA Workers United, an affiliate of AFSCME Council 57 Cultural Workers United and the museum’s first union, last week. Back in February, museum workers first announced their plans to form a union to secure better wages to keep up with Bay Area cost of living, affordable health care and a voice at the institution—specifically to weigh in on how OMCA can better embody values of equity and anti-racism. OMCA Workers United represents a range of staff roles, including preparators, curators, designers, ticketing and retail associates, and program developers. 

Oregon Public Broadcasting Workers to Join SAG-AFTRA: Workers at Oregon Public Broadcasting (OPB) and KMHD Jazz Radio have announced that they will join SAG-AFTRA. The notice was sent to management last week, and staff are asking for voluntary recognition. The unit would include roles like hosts, reporters and digital, audio and video producers who are dedicated to telling important and compelling stories from around the Pacific Northwest and through radio, TV and online media. Both OPB and KMHD have seen immense growth over the past few years, with KMHD solidifying its place as one of the region's most respected jazz stations. 

Madison Sourdough Workers Ratify Union Contract That Boosts Pay, Benefits: Workers at Madison Sourdough in Wisconsin, who are affiliated with United Food and Commercial Workers Union (UFCW) Local 1473, have ratified their first contract with the bakery, nine months after negotiations launched in June 2023. The agreement, a first-of-its-kind in Madison, Wisconsin, raises base pay and includes guaranteed annual raises, along with paid sick time and other benefits, for around 40 bakers, baristas, dishwashers, cooks and delivery drivers. Additionally, Madison Sourdough Workers United and the bakery have established a joint labor-management safety committee. 

Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 04/03/2024 - 09:34

Tags: Organizing

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Phoenix Passes Landmark Rule Requiring Heat Protection for Outdoor Workers

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

The Phoenix City Council unanimously passed an ordinance last week that will provide protections from extreme heat for thousands of outdoor workers in the hottest city in the United States.

The rule requires employers to provide workers access to shade from the sun, rest, water and air conditioning as well as training on recognizing signs of heat stress. This will apply to city contractors and their subcontractors who work outdoors, including airport and construction workers. Its passage was aided by a citywide campaign led by members of UNITE HERE Local 11, SEIU’s Airport Workers United, and other labor and community organizations.

Currently, there are no federal standards that protect outdoor workers from extreme heat, making this ordinance game-changing for an issue that is literally life or death. In 2023, heat killed 340 people in Phoenix and 645 people in Maricopa County. Three out of four of those fatalities took place outdoors.

Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 04/03/2024 - 09:27

One of SOAR’s Three-Fold Purposes

SOAR has identified its purpose as threefold. Per the SOAR constitution, one of the three reasons for our existence is "to engage in political and legislative action." The USW has given us a number of ways to do this. One of the ways SOAR members can be involved is by participating in an online membership survey currently accessible on the uswvoices.org website. Information on how to access this survey is available in the beginning of this newsletter. This survey asks you to identify priorities regarding important issues facing working and retired Americans today.

As you know, the USW endorses candidates, not parties. Therefore, candidates must commit to supporting the core issues deemed important by our members. In April, the USW will begin holding town hall meetings to hear from our members so they can weigh in on the matters we consider most important to us. I encourage SOAR members to participate in these meetings when scheduled in your area.

In May, the SOAR Executive Board will meet in Washington, D.C., and then participate in the USW Rapid Response, Legislative and Policy Conference.

One of the tools SOAR representatives will be armed with when meeting with our elected representatives to discuss the issues our union has identified as a priority is their voting record compiled by the Alliance for Retired Americans, whose mission is "to protect and expand retirement security for all Americans." 

The Alliance publishes all U.S. senators’ and representatives’ annual and lifetime voting records on key retirement security issues. Learn more about the 2023 Congressional Voting Record on page 11 of this newsletter.

SOAR Chapters will soon be asked to get involved in helping to elect candidates whose values best align with ours as a union and who support our position on issues determined to be important by our members. SOAR members can volunteer by attending rallies, making phone calls, helping to write postcards to our members, and writing letters to the editor to ensure our members understand who stands with us on our issues and who does not.

The link for signing up to volunteer to write postcards is already active on the uswvoices.org website.

Whether taking the survey, participating in a town hall meeting, or writing postcards, SOAR members have plenty of opportunities to engage in political and legislative action.

-Bill Pienta, SOAR President

Your Union, Your Voice

Based on the cover of this newsletter, you've likely concluded that our union is embarking upon another round of the Your Union, Your Voice campaign.   

Our union first launched Your Union, Your Voice in 2020 to ensure USW members' and retirees' opinions were reflected at every level of our union's work.  

We circulated a union-wide membership survey and held dozens of town hall meetings, providing valuable opportunities for our district directors, other elected union leaders and staff to hear what was on our members' and retirees' minds. 

Because this feedback proved so vital in shaping our union’s work, we repeated this effort in 2022 (see the results on page 9 of this newsletter), and it continues to inform our efforts as we head into 2024.   

Beginning in April, USW districts will again hold town hall meetings in locations across the United States. All USW members, retirees, and families are welcome to attend and participate in these important discussions.  

Additionally, our union has launched another membership survey to gauge our members' and retirees' views on some of the biggest issues facing working and retired Americans today.

You can access the survey here. Town hall meetings will be posted on this website, publicized through our social media channels, and shared by USW districts.

Our common values, such as fair pay, safe workplaces, a secure retirement, and vibrant communities, connect us as union members. 

Please take the time to attend a town hall meeting, participate in this survey, and share this information widely throughout your SOAR chapters and fellow USW retirees and families. 

One of SOAR’s Three-Fold Purposes

SOAR has identified its purpose as threefold. Per the SOAR constitution, one of the three reasons for our existence is "to engage in political and legislative action." The USW has given us a number of ways to do this. One of the ways SOAR members can be involved is by participating in an online membership survey currently accessible on the USWvoices.org website. Information on how to access this survey is available on the cover page of this newsletter. This survey asks you to identify priorities regarding important issues facing working and retired Americans today.

As you know, the USW endorses candidates, not parties. Therefore, candidates must commit to supporting the core issues deemed important by our members. In April, the USW will begin holding town hall meetings to hear from our members so they can weigh in on the matters we consider most important to us. I encourage SOAR members to participate in these meetings when scheduled in your area.

In May, the SOAR Executive Board will meet in Washington, D.C., and then participate in the USW Rapid Response, Legislative and Policy Conference.

One of the tools SOAR representatives will be armed with when meeting with our elected representatives to discuss the issues our union has identified as a priority is their voting record compiled by the Alliance for Retired Americans, whose mission is "to protect and expand retirement security for all Americans." The Alliance publishes all U.S. senators’ and representatives’ annual and lifetime voting records on key retirement security issues. Learn more about the 2023 Congressional Voting Record on page 11 of this newsletter.

SOAR Chapters will soon be asked to get involved in helping to elect candidates whose values best align with ours as a union and who support our position on issues determined to be important by our members. SOAR members can volunteer by attending rallies, making phone calls, helping to write postcards to our members, and writing letters to the editor to ensure our members understand who stands with us on our issues and who does not.

The link for signing up to volunteer to write postcards is already active on the USWvoices.org website. 

Whether taking the survey, participating in a town hall meeting, or writing postcards, SOAR members have plenty of opportunities to engage in political and legislative action.