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For Immediate Release: April 24, 2024
Contact: Jenn Wood, jwood@usw.org, 412-562-1160

PITTSBURGH – Workers at The Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh today voted overwhelmingly to join the United Steelworkers (USW) union.

“We are thrilled to become USW members and are eager to get to work bargaining a first contract that ensures museum staff can continue to support Pittsburgh’s youngest learners,” said Annette Mihalko, an educator at the museum. “We’re extremely proud that The Children’s Museum was recently voted among the top museums in the country, and we know that’s in large part because of the work we do day in and day out. We look forward to having a seat at the table and a voice in the decisions that impact our workplace.”

The 65 newly unionized workers serve as educators, events staff, cleaning associates, exhibits technicians, retail associates, visitor services professionals and more. The workers announced their intent to organize last month at a public event in Allegheny Commons Park West, citing their desire weigh in on critical issues like improved workplace health and safety, greater patron satisfaction and more transparent communication.

“It’s an honor to welcome the dedicated employees of The Children’s Museum to our union,” said Bernie Hall, USW District 10 director. “Every day, children and families from across our region rely on these workers to provide a safe, welcoming atmosphere for children to learn and play. We know the patron experience will only be enhanced as workers are able to have a voice on the job and a say in their working conditions.”

The USW also represents more than 500 museum employees at all four of Pittsburgh’s Carnegie Museums. As of last year, the Carnegie employees were the largest museum union in the United States.

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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For Immediate Release: April 22, 2024
Contact: R.J. Hufnagel, (412) 562-2450, rhufnagel@usw.org

(PITTSBURGH) – The United Steelworkers union (USW) today filed unfair labor practice charges with the Pennsylvania Labor Relations Board (PLRB) in response to the University of Pittsburgh administration’s failure to respond to the union’s requests for information necessary for contract bargaining.

The USW has represented about 3,400 members of the Pitt faculty since the workers voted overwhelmingly to unionize in October of 2021. The union members and the administration have been bargaining for more than a year in an effort to reach a first contract, but the faculty has faced numerous delays in receiving responses from the administration.

“The faculty union could have a contract agreement in place already, if it were not for the administration’s repeated delay tactics,” said Bernie Hall, director of USW District 10, which includes more than 50,000 Steelworkers union members across the state of Pennsylvania. “In fact, we’ve reached the point where we are in agreement on every point, aside from one section that would give the administration the unilateral authority to withhold pay increases in the event of a loss of enrollment or funding.”

The information the USW is seeking from the university is necessary for the union to finalize contract proposals related to pay and benefits. The union also filed charges with the PLRB against the administration last fall following similar delays.

 “The University of Pittsburgh is a world-class institution precisely because of the hard-working faculty and staff,” said Hall. “It’s past time for the administration to stop drawing out the bargaining process with unnecessary delays and return to the bargaining table to finalize an agreement that is fair to both sides.”

Thousands of Pitt support staff members and graduate student workers are also moving forward with their efforts to become USW members.

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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Leaders with the USW traveled to Argentina this month to attend the SOEPU (United Petrochemical Workers and Employees Union) Congress and forge relationships with chemical workers in South America.

USW attendees included International Secretary-Treasurer John Shinn, Carolyn Kazdin (retired from Strategic Campaigns Department), and Local 12075 President and Dow-Dupont North American Labor Council Chair (DNALC) Kent Holsing.

On the first day of the conference, April 8, Shinn was able to provide a report on the state of the chemical sector in North America while Holsing spoke on the DNALC. Activists from Argentina presented reports on the negative effect of President Milei's recent decree on labor law, which will potentially devastate working families, unions, and the country as a whole.

“It is incumbent on all of us to educate our members not just on the situation we experience at home but also about the experiences of workers around the world,” said Shinn. “Corporations have gone global, therefore our movement must be global as well.”

The second day of the conference provided an opportunity for the USW attendees and others to meet with municipal and provincial leaders. They were also presented with a proclamation recognizing the USW’s participation and the importance of the SOEPU and its Congress.

The SOEPU Congress closed with Secretary General Mauricio Brizuela urging delegates to understand the history and importance of labor's struggle, and the fight that is forthcoming to ensure the wellbeing of the union's members and their families.

“This conference was a ringing success for the SOEPU and solidified the importance of solidarity across borders,” said Holsing. “The struggle and challenges that are faced in one country and its unions will be felt and experienced by another country and its unions.”

For Immediate Release: April 17, 2024

Contact: Jess Kamm Broomell, (412) 562-2444, jkamm@usw.org 

(PITTSBURGH) – Members of the United Steelworkers (USW) today proudly welcomed President Joe Biden to the union’s International Headquarters as he announced a series of aggressive steps his administration is taking to further ensure U.S. trade policy supports workers and their communities.

This included Biden’s announcement that his administration is initiating an investigation of Chinese commercial shipbuilding in response to the Section 301 petition the USW and four other labor organizations filed last month. 

“A robust commercial shipbuilding industry is necessary for meeting our national defense and economic security needs, but unfortunately, our domestic capacity has withered as a result of China’s non-market policies,” said USW International President David McCall. “We’re grateful that the president is taking this threat seriously and pursuing a full investigation.”

Biden further announced that he is calling on the U.S. trade representative (USTR) to triple tariffs on Chinese steel and aluminum to help curb global overcapacity, as well as pushing Mexico to address the surge of Chinese and other foreign-made steel and aluminum that is entering the United States over its Southern border.

He also reiterated his position that U.S. Steel should remain domestically owned and operated, rather than allowing it to be sold to Japanese-owned Nippon Steel.

“Tens of thousands of good, union jobs hang in the balance as a result of illegal trade practices and corporate greed,” McCall said. “We’re grateful that President Biden is continuing to take bold action to ensure a level playing field for American workers.”

Ultimately, McCall said, a truly worker-centered trade policy goes beyond short-term fixes to include ongoing strategic investments to build out the nation’s supply chains and manufacturing base.

“By combining a firm stance on unfair trade with the work the administration has done on infrastructure, clean technology, microchips and more, President Biden is ensuring U.S. global competitiveness and widespread prosperity well into the future,” McCall said.

The USW represents 850,000 workers 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: Send a Letter and Tell Congress to Support Increased Federal Arts Funding

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.

American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA) members' voices are critical in ensuring members of Congress support the funding of the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) at $211 million for fiscal year 2025.

It's easy to contact representatives and senators and tell them to support this funding increase. AGMA has co-sponsored a letter-writing campaign set up by the Department for Professional Employees, AFL-CIO, through Action Network. The letter has been drafted, so all that senders need to do is insert a few details.

Congress is already making decisions about next year’s funding for the NEA and NEH and needs to hear from union creative professionals about the need to increase federal arts funding.

Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 04/17/2024 - 08:07

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