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Worker Wins: A Historic First

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

Kalamazoo Planned Parenthood Workers Win Union Election in Historic First: Workers at Planned Parenthood’s Kalamazoo Health Center made history last week by voting to form a union with United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 951, making them the first to do so in west Michigan. The bargaining unit is composed of eight medical assistants at the medical center. Through joining UFCW, the staff is aiming to improve the workplaces so they can provide the best care possible for their patients. “I was happy to have a hand in organizing our clinic and to put my ‘yes’ vote in the ballot box for representation with the UFCW,” said staff member Deedee Rounds in a Local 951 media release. “My personal motivation was to strengthen the position of working-class people in my workplace. Without working people, the crops don’t grow, the trains don’t run and, in this instance, the clinics don’t open.”

Civic News Co. Staff Unanimously Ratify New Contract: Writers Guild of America East (WGAE) members who work for Civic News Company unanimously voted on Monday to ratify their second contract since unionizing. The Civic News Guild unit includes reporters, story editors, engagement team and visuals staff at nonprofit publications like Chalkbeat, Votebeat and Healthbeat, which is set to launch this summer. The two-and-a-half year deal includes major wins for workers, including dedicated sick leave time, increased paid parental leave, new provisions around artificial intelligence, regular yearly raises, higher minimum starting salaries and more. “We’re proud to see our members at Chalkbeat, Votebeat and Healthbeat win a strong new contract. These members create essential news resources across vital topics, and they deserve union protections that reflect how important their work is,” WGAE President Lisa Takeuchi Cullen said.

San Diego Convention Center Workers Secure TA, Averting Strike Before Comic-Con: San Diego Convention Center food and beverage workers, who are represented by UNITE HERE Local 30, reached a tentative agreement (TA) on Friday, averting a potential strike two weeks before the largest annual pop-culture convention was set to open. UNITE HERE’s negotiations have been with Sodexo Live, a food and beverage services company contracted by the convention center for events like San Diego Comic-Con, which draws in more than 135,000 attendees. The old contract covering 650 cooks, dishwashers, bartenders, servers, baristas and food concession workers at the event space expired on June 30 and, two days prior to the TA, more than 99% of members had voted in favor of authorizing a strike if they didn’t get a fair deal. And their unwavering commitment to one another has paid off: the TA ensures massive pay raises among other wins. Under the new agreement, non-tipped workers will get a $3-an-hour increase each year over the lifetime of the contract—that means the overall percentage wage boost for staff will range from 55% to 67%. The union also secured health benefits for a number of staff who currently don’t work enough hours to qualify for health insurance and an agreement related to a defined pension benefit plan. “We are happy to report that we just settled an amazing contract for our members,” Local 30 President Brigette Browning said. “We need to schedule ratification, but we are confident it will be approved by the membership.”

Biden Signs Fire Grants and Safety Act, Sending Millions to Local Departments: President Biden signed the Fire Grants and Safety Act last week, reauthorizing millions of dollars in grants for fire departments across the United States that will fund staffing, training and equipment. The bill reauthorizes the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA’s) Assistance to Firefighters (AFG) and Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grants through fiscal year 2028 and extends the sunset for the programs to September 2030. Through nearly $700 million in annual funding, fire departments around the country rely on this assistance to hire and retain firefighters, buy modern equipment and provide training to keep members safe. The Fire Fighters (IAFF) union has worked tirelessly alongside lawmakers to ensure this legislative victory for both firefighters and the countless communities they serve. “To be sure, AFG and SAFER grants have saved the lives of people in every state, including the lives of firefighters,” said IAFF General President Edward Kelly. “These are critical funding sources that ensure our communities are protected by properly staffed, appropriately equipped fire departments. We are grateful to President Biden for his leadership and dedication to the fire service, and to Sens. Gary Peters (D-MI), Susan Collins (R-ME), and Tom Carper (D-DE) and Reps. Bill Pascrell (D-NJ) and Thomas Kean (R-NJ) for their efforts getting this bill across the finish line and to the President’s desk.”

Vallejo City Council Approves New Contract with IBEW: The Vallejo City Council last week approved with near unanimity a new contract with the Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 1245, which was overwhelmingly ratified by membership days prior. The memorandum of understanding (MOU) secures key wins like wage increases, improvements to medical benefits and more. Council members approved a two-part resolution—which recognized the tentative agreement and passed a notice of intent to amend the city’s 2024–25 budget and salary plan—and also took an opportunity to commend the dedication of city workers. The union credits this hard-won victory after months of negotiations to members’ commitment to making strong appearances at City Council meetings and to an outpouring of support from labor and faith allies in the community. “It’s a great day,” Local 1245 Business Manager Bob Dean said. “This is a victory that belongs to the hard-working men and women of the City of Vallejo and everyone who supported them.”

Workers at Second Better Buzz Location Vote to Join UFCW: Baristas, trainers and shift supervisors at the Better Buzz Coffee’s Mira Mesa location voted to join United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 135 on Monday, a second victory for workers at the regional coffee chain since May. Mira Mesa staff and their union member peers at the flagship Hillcrest location are organized under the name Better Buzz United. Workers have cited concerns about wages, benefits, scheduling and overall workplace safety as primary reasons for seeking union representation. These exciting and consecutive successes at Mira Mesa and Hillcrest are part of a larger effort to give workers the power to improve their conditions and wages as Better Buzz Coffee—which is one of the largest local coffee chains in San Diego County—rapidly expands across Southern California, Arizona and Nevada. “It’s a shame that a company boasting about its rapid expansion and plans to further grow continues to neglect the workers who are the lifeblood of their business,” Local 135 Organizing Director Maribel Mckinze said. “The employees at Better Buzz Mira Mesa have shown the strength workers have when they unite to fight for what they have rightfully earned. While the company has its plans for expansion, so does the union.”

Defenders of Wildlife Union Stage 2-Day Unfair Labor Practice Strike: Staff at Defenders of Wildlife, a national conservation nonprofit, held a two-day unfair labor practice (ULP) strike this week in response to management’s refusal to bargain in good faith—the first strike in the organization’s 77-year history. Workers voted overwhelmingly to join Defenders United—which is part of Office and Professional Employees (OPEIU) Local 2—in 2021. Last October, Defenders of Wildlife President and CEO Jamie Clark unilaterally revoked union members’ annual merit increases while giving nonbargaining unit staff the usual wage bump. Additionally, two months prior, management also refused to extend new parental leave benefits to union-represented workers. In response, the union filed ULP charges over the withdrawn raises and lack of access to new benefits, which are pending an investigation by the National Labor Relations Board. In recent negotiations, management has further insulted workers by insisting on a previously unannounced “salary cap” that would prevent at least seven bargaining unit members from receiving any raise—ever again. After voting in favor of strike authorization, staff picketed on July 9 and 10 in front of Defenders of Wildlife’s headquarters in Washington, D.C., in an effort to persuade management to bargain in good faith and restore union members’ access to raises and improved leave. Workers were joined on the picket line by other local union members as well as AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler. “Enough is enough,” said Kathleen Callaghy, a member of Defenders United’s Contract Action Team. “We work hard every day trying to save America’s wildlife, earning salaries that don’t keep pace with inflation. Withholding raises and extended maternity and bereavement leave specifically from unionized workers—the lowest paid staff in the organization—is, to us, clear discrimination and retaliation against unionized staff.” Sign the Petition: Tell Defenders of Wildlife Management to Bargain in Good Faith.

Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 07/23/2024 - 11:00

Tags: Organizing

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Equity and Off-Broadway League Ratify New 4-Year Contract

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

Members of Actors' Equity Association and the Off-Broadway League ratified a new four-year contract. The new agreement goes into effect July 28 and goes through 2028. The contract provides salary increases, changes to overtime calculation, increased compensation and requirements for understudies and stage managers, continued and expanded opportunities for digital exhibition of league productions, expanded time off and sick leave provisions, expanded diversity, equity and inclusion protections, and safe and sanitary provisions.

"The new Off-Broadway Agreement is proof of what can be accomplished at the bargaining table when both sides bring respect and a positive attitude,” said Bernita Robinson and Richard Topol, Equity’s co-chairs of the Off-Broadway Negotiating Team. “After hearing from our fellow members, we sat down to negotiate knowing what our ultimate goals were.”

“We as co-chairs are proud of the many gains made across the board with regard to wages, safety and working conditions, especially for stage managers and understudies. And we thank our partners across the table for working with us in such a positive manner. We are hopeful that this deal with help the Off-Broadway theatre community continue to thrive.”

Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 07/23/2024 - 10:20

USW Atomic Energy Workers Council (AEWC) President Jim Key, who also serves as an appointee to the U.S. Department of Labor Advisory Board on Toxic Substances and Worker’s Health, visited the White House on July 10 to witness President Joe Biden sign into law the Accelerating Deployment of Versatile, Advanced Nuclear for Clean Energy (A.D.V.A.N.C.E.) Act.

The bipartisan bill, which passed the Senate by a vote of 88-2 and the House by 393-13, sets forth provisions to incentivize the development and deployment of domestically produced advanced nuclear fuel technologies and to clean up hazardous land.

Key leads union-related activity at the former Gaseous Diffusion Plant in Paducah, Ky., and sees the new law as having the potential to bring scores of valuable new union jobs to the area.

“This bill lays the groundwork for bringing thousands of family-sustaining wages and good health care benefits to our region, both in the future of small modular reactors (SMRs) and in the resulting labor needed to manufacture SMR components,” said Key.

Click here to read more about what the ADVANCE Act means for Paducah and to watch Key on WPSD Local 6 News.

Click here to download this Info Alert as a PDF.

Last year, the Michigan Legislature passed Senate Bill 271 of 2023 (Public Act 235 of 2023). This bill calls for Michigan to produce all of its energy from clean sources by 2040. An amendment was added to address the specific concerns of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. This amendment requires Michigan’s Public Service Commission to prepare a report on the U.P.'s unique energy needs and limitations.

Work on the report has begun and as part of that, the Michigan Public Service Commission is holding a public hearing on July 30. This hearing is intended to provide members of the public an opportunity to share comments regarding the unique conditions influencing electric generation, transmission, and demand in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

USW members have long led the fight within the labor movement to help both America and the world meet important climate goals, while also creating and maintaining good, family-supporting jobs in our union. However, we want to be clear that these decisions must be well thought out and not rushed. This is our opportunity to talk about the impacts on the U.P. and those who live and work there.

 

Please Join Us for this Important Hearing!

DATE:

Tuesday, July 30, 2024

TIME:

6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

LOCATION:

Northern Michigan University
Northern Center Ballroom II
1401 Presque Isle Avenue
Marquette, Michigan 49855

Click HERE for more details about the hearing and how you can participate.

For additional information, please contact District 1 Rapid Response Coordinator, Sue Browne at sbrowne@usw.org or 269 - 838 – 5956.

Click here to download this Action Call as a PDF.

USW members have long led the fight within the labor movement to help both America and the world meet important climate goals, while also creating and maintaining good, family-supporting jobs in our union. However, not all legislation shares these goals and right now the Massachusetts legislature is pushing policies that are short-sighted, rushed, and premature.

The Massachusetts Senate recently passed S2838. This bill strips both the “obligation to serve” (a requirement of the state to continue to allow gas companies to provide gas connections) and the Gas Safety Enhancement Program (GSEP). The GSEP program was created in 2014 to ensure that leak-prone gas pipes, a common occurrence with the harsh winters and centuries-old infrastructure in the state, are replaced – important work that our members do. The program provides for the safety of our workers, first responders, and our communities.

We are thankful that the House did not also pursue this path. The final bill will be reconciled by a six-
member conference committee of Senators and Representatives before July 31st. We are asking two
things of the conference committee:

• Maintain the GSEP program (do not include section 101 from the Senate bill).
• Maintain the “obligation to serve” (do not include sections 69 and 97 from the Senate bill).

The disregard for serious safety concerns, coupled with the lack of understanding about the jobs our members perform, is shameful. One Senator was quoted as saying he “can appreciate that transition sometimes cause inconvenience” and “it’s always a pain to change jobs.” Let’s be clear about something: the loss of a job to a working family is not an inconvenience, its life-changing. These workers and their communities deserve better.

We Need Your Help Today!
We need you to help to stop the reckless Senate language from appearing in the final bill!
Click HERE to send a pre-written email to your Massachusetts Senators and Representatives.

Dismantling safety programs in the name of saving costs for the energy transition is an unnecessary and highly irresponsible step. We can afford to do both. With thousands of miles of leak-prone pipe left in disrepair, our members will be less safe on the job and the general public will be at greater risk in their homes and businesses. Put Massachusetts’ safety first! Ask the conferees to NOT include sections 69, 97 and 101 from the Senate bill in the final energy bill.

For additional questions about this issue or ways to get involved in Rapid Response, contact Mark McDonald, USW District 4 Rapid Response Coordinator, at (716) 553-0239 or mmcdonald@usw.org.

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

(PITTSBURGH) – The United Steelworkers (USW) union today proudly endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris for president.

“When our union endorses a candidate, we first and foremost consider their values, and even more importantly, how they put those values into action,” said USW International President David McCall. “And Vice President Harris is a crucial part of the most pro-labor administration of our lifetimes, backing innumerable initiatives to help advance the interests of working families.”

McCall pointed to Harris’ strong record of delivering for workers during her time in office, noting that the USW enthusiastically endorsed her twice before as a vice presidential candidate.

“Vice President Harris cast the critical, tie-breaking vote when it came to securing more than a million workers’ pensions, including those of 120,000 USW members,” said McCall.

“She also was essential in the administration’s efforts to return the National Labor Relations Board to its mission of empowering working people, rather than serving the interests of wealthy corporations,” McCall said. “And her efforts chairing the White House Task Force on Worker Organizing and Empowerment are proving to be an essential part of the administration’s goal of helping more workers realize the benefits of union membership.”

These include more than 1,500 workers at bus manufacturer Blue Bird Corp. in Fort Valley, Ga., who now know the power of a union contract after voting in May 2023 to join the USW.

“Kamala Harris listens to working people, she understands their concerns, and she works hard to address those issues head-on, with real results,” McCall said. “We need to look no further than the fact that she has been instrumental in the administration developing this nation’s first real industrial policy in decades.

“Vice President Harris has been a true partner,” McCall said. “We look forward to continuing to work with her, and we are proud to give her our endorsement.”

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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The Rise of the ‘Union Curious’: 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.

UAW Slams Trump After He Criticizes Leader at RNC: “The International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America (UAW) slammed Donald Trump after he said its leader, Shawn Fain, should be fired for letting car makers build factories outside the country during his remarks at the Republican National Convention (RNC) Thursday night. The union clapped back in a post on X, formerly Twitter, shortly after, writing, ‘@realDonaldTrump is a scab and a billionaire and that’s who he represents. We know which side we’re on. Not his.’”

Hollywood Crew Members Ratify New IATSE Contract: “Film and TV crew members have ratified a new three-year contract with the entertainment companies following a relatively smooth bargaining period on the heels of two major Hollywood strikes. Members of the Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) approved the new Hollywood Basic Agreement this week by a ratification vote of 85.9% to 14.1%, with a ‘historically high’ turnout, according to the union. The basic agreement covers some 50,000 below-the-line workers based primarily in Los Angeles, including cinematographers, costume designers, set decorators, editors and lighting technicians. Union members also ratified the Area Standards Agreement, which covers 20,000 tradespeople working in other production hubs across the United States.”

U.S. Union Organizing and Unions’ Election Wins Are Surging, NLRB Says: “Unions are filing petitions to hold elections and winning them at rates not seen in decades, according to data released by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) on Wednesday, likely a reflection of the agency’s adoption of policies favored by unions during the Biden administration. The board in a release said it has already received more than 2,600 union election petitions during the fiscal year that ends Sept. 30, surpassing the total for the full previous fiscal year. NLRB regional offices have seen a 32% increase in the number of petitions filed compared with this time last year, the agency said.”

Support for Unions Growing Strong Among Young Workers: “Support for organized labor is at a high not seen since the 1960s, with 71% of Americans saying they approve of unions, according to Gallup. Among members of Generation Z, unions have a 64.3% approval rating, according to the Center for American Progress.”

The Rise of the ‘Union Curious’: “Americans’ approval of unions and willingness to vote for them at their workplaces have increased although union membership has continued to drop in recent years. Even more remarkable than the growth of union support has been the decline of outright opposition to unions and the rise of the ‘union curious.’ A large generational divide that was not apparent even a few years ago is emerging. Workers ages 30 and younger are far more likely than older workers to report both support for and uncertainty about unionization.”

Union Reaches Tentative Agreement with Altice/Optimum in West Virginia: “Members of the Communications Workers of America (CWA) employed by Universal Cable Holdings, LLC, part of Altice USA, Inc., have reached a tentative agreement with their employer for a new contract covering CWA-represented employees working under the Optimum brand in West Virginia. The new agreement includes 7.69% compounded wage increase over the three-year contract as well as new minimum salaries for technicians, resulting in an average wage increase of 10.6% in the highest-populated technician title. A ratification vote is being scheduled.”

Civic News Company Writers Unanimously Ratify New 2.5-Year Contract: “The writers at Civic News Company have a new deal. The 29-member bargaining unit, which is represented by the Writers Guild of America East (WGAE), unanimously voted to ratify their second contract since unionizing. The two-and-a-half-year contract includes ‘major improvements’ to paid sick leave, salary minimums and short-term disability, the guild says. ‘We’re proud to see our members at Chalkbeat, Votebeat and Healthbeat win a strong new contract. These members create essential news resources across vital topics, and they deserve union protections that reflect how important their work is,’ WGAE President Lisa Takeuchi Cullen said in a statement.”

Met Council AFSCME Workers Vote to Authorize Strike: “More than 700 employees of the Metropolitan Council could go on strike. AFSCME Council 5 and AFSCME Local 668 say 94% of union members voted to authorize a strike after not being able to reach an agreement on a contract. The hundreds of union employees represent many divisions of the Met Council, including wastewater workers, Metro Transit accident investigators, payroll, information technology and more.”

Eugene Symphony Announces Three-Year Contract with American Federation of Musicians (AFM) Local 689: “The board of directors at the Eugene Symphony has ratified a new three-year contract with its 82 players. The contract includes pay rises and provision to begin hiring for vacant positions and takes the orchestra through to 2027. By the end of the contract, players will have received annual raises totaling 10.5%. At present, 18 chairs in the orchestra are vacant, and hiring processes to fill those jobs will begin immediately. The contract also makes provision for greater flexibility, allowing smaller groups of players to perform concerts in the community.”

Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 07/22/2024 - 10:20

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Bethesda Game Studios Workers Join Communications Workers of America

Working people across the United States regularly step 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 Bethesda Game Studios voted to join the Communications Workers of America (CWA). The workers consist of 241 developers, artists, engineers, programmers and designers who have either signed a union authorization card or indicated that they wanted union representation via an online portal. Microsoft has recognized the union.

“We are so excited to announce our union at Bethesda Game Studio and join the movement sweeping across the video game industry. It is clear that every worker can benefit from bringing democracy into the workplace and securing a protected voice on the job. We’re thrilled to get down to brass tacks and win a fair contract, proving that our unity is a source of real power to positively shape our working conditions, our lives, and the company as a whole,” said Mandi Parker, senior system designer and member of CWA.

The unionization at Bethesda is the latest in a surge of organization at video game companies, following Sega of America, Activision Blizzard, ZeniMax, Tender Claws and more.

Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 07/22/2024 - 09:56

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

(PITTSBURGH) – United Steelworkers (USW) International President David McCall issued the following statement today after Joe Biden announced he would not seek reelection, thanking the president for his unwavering commitment to advancing the interests of working families:

“We are deeply grateful to President Joe Biden for his lifetime of service and especially for the past three and a half years as he navigated our nation out of a deadly pandemic and put us on a path to widespread, shared prosperity.

“President Biden’s commitment to workers has never faltered. He promised that he would spearhead transformational infrastructure investments, develop a much-needed industrial policy, safeguard retirement security, strengthen workers’ access to collective bargaining, secure our broken supply chains and build healthier communities.

“And on every one of these promises, he delivered.

“Most importantly, President Biden continually sought to unify our nation, to represent the interests of all Americans, not just the wealthy few or the well connected.

“Our union thanks Joe Biden for his exemplary leadership, and we vow to carry his mission forward as we work to build a brighter future for everyone.”

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.

###

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Kalamazoo Planned Parenthood Workers Unionize

Working people across the United States regularly step 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 Planned Parenthood’s Kalamazoo Health Center became the first Planned Parenthood site in West Michigan to unionize. They will be represented by United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 951. They will start negotiating their first contract and they say union representation is a step in the right direction toward a lasting career.

“I was happy to have a hand in organizing our clinic and to put my ‘yes’ vote in the ballot box for representation with the UFCW,” said Deedee Rounds, medical assistant at Kalamazoo Planned Parenthood. “My personal motivation was to strengthen the position of working-class people in my workplace. Without working people, the crops don’t grow, the trains don’t run, and in this instance, the clinics don’t open.”

Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 07/18/2024 - 10:08

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: San Diego Convention Center Workers Secure TA, Averting Strike Before Comic-Con

Working people across the United States regularly step 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.

San Diego Convention Center food and beverage workers, who are represented by UNITE HERE Local 30, reached a tentative agreement (TA) on Friday, averting a potential strike two weeks before the largest annual pop-culture convention was set to open.

UNITE HERE’s negotiations have been with Sodexo Live, a food and beverage services company contracted by the convention center for events like San Diego Comic-Con, which draws in more than 135,000 attendees. The old contract covering 650 cooks, dishwashers, bartenders, servers, baristas and food concession workers at the event space expired on June 30 and, two days prior to the TA, more than 99% of members had voted in favor of authorizing a strike if they didn’t get a fair deal. And their unwavering commitment to one another has paid off: the TA ensures massive pay raises among other wins. Under the new agreement, non-tipped workers will get a $3-an-hour increase each year over the lifetime of the contract—that means the overall percentage wage boost for staff will range from 55% to 67%. The union also secured health benefits for a number of staff who currently don’t work enough hours to qualify for health insurance and an agreement related to a defined pension benefit plan.

“We are happy to report that we just settled an amazing contract for our members,” Local 30 President Brigette Browning said. “We need to schedule ratification, but we are confident it will be approved by the membership.”

Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 07/17/2024 - 09:57

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Workers at Jewish Family Services Secure Union

Working people across the United States regularly step 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 Jewish Family Services voted overwhelmingly to join Communications Workers of America (CWA) Local 6400 as Jewish Family Services Workers United. The victory comes after months of organizing and sustained union avoidance tactics from management. Workers cited high turnover and a toxic work environment among their reasons for organizing.

“We won both,” said Natashia Pickens, executive vice president of Local 6400. “This was a hard-fought win. They were pushing very hard to stop this, and it came down to the vote. We are very excited for the workers, and we are looking forward to building a collaborative process with Jewish Family Services. Workers will have a voice on the job, and a say in what happens to them in the workplace. And the company has to work with them on some of the issues they have there in the center.”

Jewish Family Services provides services for children, families and older adults designed to help alleviate hunger and improve mental health. They also operate the Harvey Kornblum Jewish Food Pantry and child abuse prevention programs.

Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 07/16/2024 - 08:34

Tags: Organizing

Tonya Clark works at aluminum manufacturer Arconic in Northern Iowa and is a proud member of Local 105. She serves in a multitude of positions, including steward, trustee, recording secretary for Women of Steel, Civil and Human Rights Chair, and delegate.

For Clark, helping others comes naturally. Prior to getting hired at Arconic, she worked in home healthcare where she served some of the most vulnerable community members. Now, she is grateful to lend a hand via her union that feels like home.

“I love being a part of a union,” said Clark. “It’s like being in a family, and you’re fighting for what is right.”

Clark said that there are plenty of members who don’t understand what it means to be in a union. She believes it requires looking at the bigger picture.

“It’s not just about wages,” Clark said. “You meet wonderful people, you learn different things. It’s so much more.”

Clark uses her privilege in the union to give back to the surrounding community. Before coming to Arconic roughly ten years ago, she would donate clothing and serve food at a local homeless shelter. Now, she’s honored that her Local 105 siblings participate with her in this and other projects.

“A lot of these people have mental issues, or they’re lost because they have no family left, or they’ve been assaulted and don’t know how to find themselves again,” Clark said.

This empathy is what has always guided her, because she knows what it means to struggle.

“I didn’t always have a lot of money when my kids were younger. I would stand in the Toys for Tots line, even when it was cold and my toes were freezing,” she said. “Now, it’s my turn to help, and I do it happily.”

Clark is someone who has, literally, given someone the clothing off her back. During a dinner at the shelter, a young girl mentioned that she didn’t own a jacket. Clark removed her coat and gave it to the girl, no questions asked.

“I just like to see a smile on people’s faces,” Clark said.

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Vallejo City Council Approves New Contract with IBEW

Working people across the United States regularly step 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 Vallejo City Council last week approved with near unanimity a new contract with the Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 1245, which was overwhelmingly ratified by membership days prior.

The memorandum of understanding secures key wins like wage increases, improvements to medical benefits and more. Council members approved a two-part resolution—which recognized the tentative agreement and passed a notice of intent to amend the city’s 2024–25 budget and salary plan—and also took an opportunity to commend the dedication of city workers. The union credits this hard-won victory after months of negotiations to members’ commitment to making strong appearances at City Council meetings and to an outpouring of support from labor and faith allies in the community.

“It’s a great day,” Local 1245 Business Manager Bob Dean said. “This is a victory that belongs to the hard-working men and women of the City of Vallejo and everyone who supported them.”

Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 07/15/2024 - 10:03

Building a Southern Economy for All: 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.

President Biden Attends Meeting with Union Leaders at AFL-CIO: “President Biden delivered remarks at a meeting with national union leaders at the AFL-CIO headquarters in Washington, D.C. ‘We’re gonna build this country from the bottom up and the middle out, not the top down,’ he said, and drew a contrast between himself and his Republican presidential challenger Donald Trump on plans for the economy and labor. He was introduced by AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler.”

Unions and Communities Are Building a Southern Economy for All: “Gov. Brian Kemp and five other Southern governors recently sent a chilling statement to working people in this state: Don’t you dare join a union. While politicians in the South have a long and sordid history of thwarting workers’ legal right to stand together in a union, these brazen and highly inappropriate threats no longer carry the weight they once did. Workers at the Blue Bird electric bus factory in Macon made history last year by voting to join the United Steelworkers and last month ratified their first contract, which included substantial wage gains, health and safety protections, and much more. These workers and many others in the South who choose to stand together in a union are sending a powerful message to anti-union governors like Kemp: We won’t be bullied.”

Three Ways Project 2025 Will Impact American Workplaces: “A 922-page document, the Mandate for Leadership 2025: The Conservative Promise, also known as Project 2025, has been a big topic of conversation as the presidential election draws near. The document, which contains a detailed right-wing proposal of drastic changes for the next Republican president to implement, was drafted by the conservative think tank Heritage Foundation. The leader of the Heritage Foundation, Kevin Roberts, stated in a podcast interview that Republicans are in the midst of ‘taking this country back’ and that the U.S. is currently in a second American Revolution that will ‘remain bloodless if the left allows it to be.’ Although several Trump administration officials contributed to the document, former president Trump has claimed to know nothing about it. Every American should understand Project 2025 and its potential long-term impacts. This article explores three major shifts that the authoritarian playbook will cause in the American workplace if implemented.”

Biden Administration Makes Largest-Ever Federal Grant to NY/NJ: Gateway Tunnel Is Finally Funded: “Yesterday, elected officials from New Jersey and New York announced that $6.88 billion in federal funding for the Hudson Tunnel Project has been obtained. The long-awaited project now has enough federal funding to begin the full construction phase. This is the largest federal funding commitment to a rail transportation project in over a decade. The New Jersey State AFL-CIO thanks the Biden Administration for delivering on their commitments to increasing the number of good paying union jobs, while investing in much needed improvements to infrastructure.”

Workplace Heat Rules Proposed by Biden Administration to Protect Workers: “A rule proposed by federal workplace safety regulators would offer some workers protection from extreme heat. The regulation pitched by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recognizes that climate change makes dangerous high heat days more common, said Matt Schlobohm, executive director of the Maine AFL-CIO labor union. ‘Employers obviously can’t control everything about the weather and the temperature, but workers deserve fundamental rights and protections and we need to adjust to this new reality and this rule is a great step in that direction,’ Schlobohm said.”

Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese Strengthen Players' Union Seeking Larger Piece of Financial Pie: “As the WNBA enjoys a surge in attendance and TV ratings, negotiates a lucrative media-rights deal and prepares to add four teams that will net tens of millions in expansion fees, the players want a larger slice of the pie. So here's what is likely to happen: Before the Nov. 1 deadline, the Women's National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) will opt out of the existing Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) set to run through 2027, with added star power. Clark and Reese will be in the fold. The players' association is in a new position thanks to Clark, Reese and the rest of the WNBA's rookie class, said Gary Roberts, the former dean of the Indiana University law school whose expertise includes sports law. ‘This is really the first draft class that has gotten this kind of attention that would give the union some bargaining leverage," Roberts said. ‘And it’s all about leverage.’”

Advancement of Immigrant Rights Is a Win for ALL Workers: “The AFL-CIO lauds President Biden’s action to remove barriers to citizenship and good jobs for long-term members of our workforce, our communities, and our unions. Immigrant rights are workers’ rights, and any policies that strengthen protections for immigrants are key to our efforts to build worker power and lift standards in our industries. Until all workers, regardless of immigration status, have equal and enforceable rights in this country, employers will continue to underpay, mistreat, and misclassify the hardworking immigrants who help keep our economy running. In the face of decades of shameful congressional inaction, the Biden administration has taken a sensible and much-needed step forward.”

Biden to Extend Overtime Protections for 1 Million Workers: “President Biden is extending overtime protections to 1 million workers who make less than the median individual salary and is vowing to take more action if re-elected. The executive action announced Monday will extend protections to workers making less than $43,888 per year, the White House said in a statement.”

Biden Unveils $1.7 Billion to Boost EV Production at U.S. Auto Factories: “The Energy Department on Thursday unveiled $1.7 billion for retooling 11 auto factories to make electric vehicles and their components, with a focus on facilities that have shuttered or could close without federal help. The president met Wednesday with the executive council of the AFL-CIO, the country’s largest federation of trade unions. ‘Building a clean energy economy can and should be a win-win for union autoworkers and automakers,’ Biden said in a statement Thursday. ‘This investment will create thousands of good-paying, union manufacturing jobs and retain even more—from Lansing, Michigan to Fort Valley, Georgia—by helping auto companies retool, reboot and rehire in the same factories and communities.’”

U.S. Miners' Union Head Calls House Republican Effort to Block Silica Dust Rule an 'Attack' on Workers: “The head of the national mine workers’ union on Friday condemned what he characterized as an effort by House Republicans to block enforcement of a long-awaited federal rule directed at curbing workers' exposure to poisonous, deadly rock dust, calling it ‘a direct attack on the health and safety of coal miners.’ United Mine Workers of America International President Cecil E. Roberts said a budget provision—approved by a U.S. House subcommittee Thursday—prohibiting the Department of Labor from using funding to enforce a silica dust rule operators must be in compliance with next year is ‘morally reprehensible’ and that the action ‘undermines the principles of fairness and justice that our country stands for.’”

Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 07/15/2024 - 09:15

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Versant Workers Secure Strong Contract Gains, Job Security

Working people across the United States regularly step 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.

Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 1837 members who work at Versant Power ratified a three-year collective bargaining agreement after federal mediators were brought in. The contract includes significant improvements to wages, benefits, working conditions and job security. All workers will see wage increases of 4% in 2025, 3% in 2026, and 3% in 2027. Several positions will also see market adjustments.

"These targeted market adjustments are crucial to remaining competitive in the labor market," said Renee Gilman, assistant business manager for Local 1837. "We've seen ten first-class lineworkers leave Versant in the past year due to better pay offered by outside contractors. These adjustments help retain our existing workforce, ensuring we have qualified members on the system ready to restore power to customers when needed. It also helps to attract good, new talent to Versant."

Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 07/12/2024 - 11:57

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

PITTSBURGH – United Steelworkers (USW) International President David McCall today issued the following statement after the AFL-CIO executive board unanimously reaffirmed its commitment to reelecting President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris: 

“President Biden from his first day in office has been an unwavering ally in the fight for workers’ rights, advocating tirelessly for working families rather than corporate interests.

“This includes the American Rescue Plan, which restored retirement security for more than a million workers, including 120,000 USW members, who stood to lose their pensions through no fault of their own.

“The Biden-Harris administration also crucially paired transformative investments with a strong worker-centered trade policy to lay the foundation for the industrial policy our nation has long needed, fostering an environment in which our domestic industries can thrive and the jobs of the future are good, union jobs.

“We need elected officials who share our values, and Joe Biden and Kamala Harris have proven time and again that they prioritize working Americans. Looking to the future, the choice is clear: we need a second Biden-Harris term.”

The USW represents 850,000 workers in North America employed in many industries that include metals, mining, rubber, chemicals, paper, oil refining, the service, public and health care sectors and higher education. For more information: www.usw.org.

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

PITTSBURGH – The United Steelworkers union (USW) today commended the Biden administration’s proclamation strengthening rules for steel and aluminum to qualify for trade benefits between the United States and Mexico. 

The proclamation requires that steel be “melted and poured” in North America and aluminum be “smelted and cast” not in countries of concern to qualify for zero tariffs when traded between the two countries under the Section 232 relief measures.

“President Biden’s actions today are yet another example of his support for domestic steel and aluminum workers,” said USW International President David McCall. “The president is helping to close loopholes in the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) that allowed for foreign steel and aluminum to enter the United States through Mexico without significant value being created in that country.  

“From infrastructure investments to Buy America enhancements to raising tariffs on China to direct investments in these industries to today’s proclamation, President Biden has a long record of support for steel and aluminum.”

McCall said that global overcapacity and surging imports remain an ongoing concern and that the U.S. market continues to be a be a target for predatory and unfairly traded shipments of basic steel and aluminum products.

“We’re grateful that the president takes this threat seriously and continues fighting to achieve a level playing field for American workers,” McCall said.

The USW represents 850,000 workers in North America employed in many industries that include metals, mining, rubber, chemicals, paper, oil refining, the service, public and health care sectors and higher education. For more information: www.usw.org.

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Worker Wins: A Shared Vision for the Future

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

Cannabis Workers in Arizona Ratify a First Union Contract: Workers at Local Joint by Zen Leaf and Zen Leaf–Chandler cannabis dispensaries in Arizona voted to ratify their first union contract last month with United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 99. This marks a historic milestone as they become the first cannabis industry union members to do so in the state’s history. The ratification vote comes nearly two years after both dispensaries voted in favor of organizing with Local 99. In 2021, the locations were acquired by Zen Leaf’s parent company, Chicago-based Verano Holdings—a multistate operator that owns more than 120 dispensaries across 13 states. Some workers report that the buyout was a huge motivating factor for the union drive, giving them the voice on the job they needed. The four-year contract includes major wins like guaranteed wage increases, seven paid holidays, paid time off, paid bereavement leave, a 401(k) option, seniority and qualification-based promotions, and just-cause discharge. “Today marks a significant milestone not just for Zen Leaf employees, but for all Arizona cannabis workers,” said Local 99 President Jim McLaughlin. “With guaranteed wage increases and seniority-based promotions, workers at Zen Leaf can finally plan for their futures and forge a career path in the industry they helped build. This goes to show that Arizona’s cannabis industry works best when workers have a seat at the table.”

Biden Proposes New Rule to Protect 36 Million Workers from Extreme Heat: Last Tuesday, President Joe Biden proposed a new rule to protect workers from excessive heat on the job as tens of millions of people in the United States already have been under heat advisories this year. The Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA’s) new measure would establish the nation’s first federal safety standard addressing excessive heat in the workplace. The proposed rule includes requirements for identifying heat hazards, developing heat illness and emergency response plans and implementing work practice standards like regular rest breaks, access to shade and water, and heat acclimatization for new employees. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, from 1992 to 2022, a total of 986 workers across all industry sectors died from exposure to heat, with construction accounting for about 34% of all occupational heat-related deaths. “The AFL-CIO has long called for these prevention measures to be codified in federal law, and we are glad to see President Biden and Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su take the threat of extreme heat seriously with this important action,” said AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler in a press release. “We urge OSHA to work with unions to strengthen the rule’s provisions and finalize it as quickly as possible so that workers can return home safely to their families at the end of each work shift.” Read the full statement from the AFL-CIO here.

The Brookings Institution Staff Union Secures Landmark Three-Year Agreement: Brookings United—the staff union for workers at the nonprofit research organization The Brookings Institution—announced that members have voted to ratify a three-year collective bargaining agreement (CBA). The union is an affiliate of the Nonprofit Professional Employees Union (NPEU), a local of the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE). Building on an initial yearlong contract reached in May 2023, the new CBA includes wage increases with set salary floors, extended paid family leave, improved retirement benefits and processes to strengthen communication pathways between management and members. “We are proud to have secured our first full collective bargaining agreement,” said Naomi Maehr, president of the Brookings United bargaining committee. “This milestone would not have been possible without years of hard work from countless organizers, bargaining team members, and stewards, as well as the support of our membership who unanimously ratified this agreement.” “Congratulations to the Brookings Institution and all of our Brookings United members on this monumental contract,” said NPEU President Amy Chin-Lai. “I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know this team throughout the bargaining process, and I am proud of the assistance that NPEU was able to offer to our members throughout these negotiations. By coming together around a shared vision for the future, you were able to negotiate an agreement that will have a positive impact on the working lives of Brookings staff for years to come.”

Biden to Extend Overtime Protections to 1 Million Workers: In an executive action announced Monday, President Biden extended overtime protections to 1 million workers; he has pledged to continue to further expand these safeguards if reelected. The new overtime protections stem from a rule finalized in April in a section of the Fair Labor Standards Act based on an updated Department of Labor (DOL) calculation. Now, workers making less than $43,888 a year are eligible for extra pay when they work long hours, putting more money in the pockets of workers. Additionally, the Biden administration has vowed to further extend these protections to another 3 million workers by increasing the overtime threshold to $58,656 next year. “For more than 80 years, the 40-hour workweek has been a pillar of fairness for American workers,” said Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su in a DOL news release. “Today, our rule to restore that balance by expanding overtime protections for our nation’s lower-paid salaried workers goes into effect. The Biden-Harris administration is giving millions a chance to reclaim their time and share in the economic prosperity that they help create, and we will continue to do good by the people that make this country great.”

Nurses Ratify New Contract with MyMichigan: Last week, after 18 rounds of bargaining over the course of six months, members of the Michigan Nurses Association—an affiliate of National Nurses United (NNU)—who work at MyMichigan Medical Center Sault voted to ratify a new contract. Nurses staged a strike in April, voted to authorize an additional work stoppage in June and held the line at multiple pickets in order to secure this victory. And their bravery has paid off. The new contract covers approximately 120 members and includes wage increases that will move the top-of-the-scale wage beyond $50 an hour by the end of the contract. “We’re proud of our solidarity and strength as a union that made this possible, as well as the amazing community support for which we are so grateful,” said Colleen Waucaush, RN, president of the Michigan Nurses Association local bargaining unit at the hospital, in a press release. “This journey was worth it to set up a better future for local nurses and our hospital, which ultimately means a better future for everyone in the eastern U.P. Nurses never lost our focus on providing the best care possible for our patients, and we’re proud that this contract will support making that happen every day at our hospital.”

Michigan Kroger Workers Ratify New Contract: Last week, members of United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 951 in Michigan voted to ratify a new Kroger contract that secures major improvements to wages and benefits. The three-year contract went into effect on Sunday, triggering immediate wage increases of up to $1.50 per hour. The agreement also includes provisions that ensure more paid time off for workers with 18 years of service, prevent increases in the weekly cost of health and welfare benefits for the life of the agreement and that establish improvements to workplace safety protocols. In total, the Local 951 bargaining committee secured a commitment from Kroger of more than $8 million in associate health care investments and more than $500,000 in investments for retirement benefits. “We fought hard for significant wage increases and an overall improved contract for the Kroger members,” said Courtney Phillips, secretary-treasurer of UFCW Local 951. “I am proud of the members who served on the bargaining committee and worked together to achieve contract gains that improve the lives of their fellow members.” Jackie Davis, who works at a Kroger in Saginaw, Michigan, added in a news release: “I have been on the bargaining committee in the past and this is the most money I have ever seen from the company. I am very proud. The committee was able to come together and made decisions for what was best for all the employees.”

UAW Reaches Historic TA at BMW’s Regional Distribution Center in Pennsylvania: International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America (UAW) members who work at the BMW Regional Distribution Center in Palmer Township, Pennsylvania, have won a historic tentative agreement (TA) that includes wage increases and an end to the two-tier wage system. The contract, if ratified, also would secure major improvements in areas of worker concerns like policies on time off, uniforms, overtime exemptions and attendance. This victory was made possible in part by members’ unwavering commitment to solidarity through the bargaining process. Before the TA was reached, workers flexed their power by voting 99% in support of authorizing a strike—sending a clear message to BMW that they were willing to do whatever it took to secure the provisions they deserve. Additionally, to keep the pressure on to win a contract before the current agreement’s June 30 expiration, workers organized red shirt days and held multiple rallies in front of the facility. “We knew that if we stuck together and refused to be divided, we could win,” said Zach Haas, chief steward and bargaining unit chair. “This agreement is going to mean a better life for me and my co-workers.”

IATSE Secures TAs on Area Standards Agreement and Basic Agreement: The Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) secured major wins last week with announcements of tentative agreements (TAs) on all issues for the Area Standards Agreement (ASA) and the Basic Agreement. The latest agreement between IATSE and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) for the studios and streamers means that, if members vote for ratification, it will avert another summer of Hollywood strikes. The Basic Agreement TA comes after more than three months of bargaining and includes provisions like a 7% raise in minimums in the first year, followed by raises of 4% and 3.5% (which matches the terms won by SAG-AFTRA last fall). Other notable victories include increases to overtime compensation, new protections around artificial intelligence (AI) and more. The ASA TA was announced Thursday and came after two days of talks. The contract includes some identical language like the same scaled wage increases and improved overtime compensation as in the Basic Agreement, as well as wins like Juneteenth added as a holiday and improved bereavement leave. The remaining Hollywood negotiations that need to be settled before the July 31 contract expiration date are the AMPTP‘s contract talks with the Teamsters.

ATU Local 757 Reaches Tentative Agreement with TriMet: The Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 757’s bargaining committee reached a tentative agreement (TA) Tuesday with transit agency TriMet on a proposed new working and wage agreement. Operators, maintenance staff and other workers at TriMet are responsible for the daily functioning of bus, light rail and commuter rail service that connects the Portland, Oregon, metropolitan area. Highlights of this new contract include a 13.64% wage increase over the lifetime of the agreement, two additional floating holidays, a new monthly child care subsidy, the first annual increase in hourly “longevity” pay in 25 years, an increase to the employer-sponsored retirement and more. “This truly is a landmark agreement proposal that will greatly benefit ATU 757 members in a variety of ways, including personally and financially,” said Local 757 President Shirley Block. “As my tenure with TriMet and leading the ATU Local 757 comes to a close, I know this contract leaves my union brethren in a much better situation and sets them up for a prosperous future.”

Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 07/10/2024 - 10:41

Tags: Organizing

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: AFSCME Members Who Save Student’s Life Honored with Service Award

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.

Jushawn Rucker (left) and David DiPasquale (right), who are members of AFSCME Local 2419 (New York Council 66), have been awarded the union’s Never Quit Service Award for their heroism when a junior varsity basketball player collapsed during a game.

The award recognizes AFSCME members who go above and beyond to make their communities better. A perfect example of this unwavering commitment to public service is when Rucker—a school security officer—and DiPasquale—an athletic trainer—sprang into action last year at one of the schools in the Rochester City School District in western New York. The workers had been alerted that a student was having a medical emergency in the gym and they immediately came to his aid, performing CPR and calling for an automated external defibrillator (AED). By the time the paramedics arrived, the student was starting to show signs of revival and was taken to a hospital where he made a full recovery. Rucker’s and DiPasquale's quick thinking, CPR training and leadership instincts undoubtedly helped prevent the injury from becoming a tragedy. They are another powerful example of the everyday heroics of public service workers across the country.

Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 07/10/2024 - 10:33