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Fighting for Our Rights: What Working People Are Doing This Week Fighting for Our Rights: What Working People Are Doing This Week Welcome to our regular feature, a look at what the various AFL-CIO unions and other working family organizations are doing across the country and beyond. The labor movement is big and active—here's a look at the broad range of activities we're engaged in this week. Actors' Equity:
Disneyland cast members have filed for an election with the NLRB. https://t.co/tsWErejmdA — Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) April 17, 2024
AFGE:🔥The numbers are in! AFGE grew by 5.5% in 2023, making our union the fastest growing large union in the country.We're pushing towards our next goal of 325,000 members by the end of 2025.https://t.co/93Ne1MJNlO — AFGE (@AFGENational) April 17, 2024
AFSCME:.@PHLafscmeDC47 Kelli Gray shares her life-changing moment with @VP Kamala Harris. Thanks to Public Service Loan Forgiveness,$350K of her student debt has been wiped away. Now, Kelli's a thriving homeowner! https://t.co/k8jAt0yVJX — AFSCME (@AFSCME) April 16, 2024
Alliance for Retired Americans:Clearly, we can't always count on corporations to respect workers' right to organize.News stories like this show why we need the PRO Act. https://t.co/24phaSSMvN — Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) April 17, 2024
Amalgamated Transit Union:Our Halifax, NS, Local 508 ferry operators are burned out, time for Halifax Transit to address the worker shortage. https://t.co/plloArGY56 #ATUStrongerTogether #canlab @NS_Labour — ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) April 17, 2024
American Federation of Teachers:Happy National #SchoolLibraryMonth — a month-long celebration of school librarians and school libraries! This quote from author Kelly Barnhill sums it up best. pic.twitter.com/IegZ2t0BWE — AFT (@AFTunion) April 17, 2024
American Postal Workers Union:On Tuesday, April 16, the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee held a hearing to conduct oversight of the USPS, including the implementation of the Postal Service Reform Act of 2022. https://t.co/bbBZlkB51b — The American Postal Workers Union - APWU (@APWUnational) April 16, 2024
Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:#Chicago is a union town! Join us tomorrow, Thursday, April 18th at 1:00pm on the picket line at ORD with our @APFAunity American flying partners to fight against corporate greed. 📢 Let’s make some noise! RSVP here: https://t.co/XKX7KGQIpA pic.twitter.com/V4jvKOLgLh — AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) April 17, 2024
Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers:Workers @ Hearthside Food Solutions in London, Ky. have filed for a union election w/ BCTGM. They have been trying to unionize for over a decade & their friends in McComb, Oh. and Michigan City, Ind. hope to follow very soon. RT to show your support!#hfsworkersunited #unionyes pic.twitter.com/Sn4DtlaxKc — BCTGM International (@BCTGM) April 10, 2024
Boilermakers:NACBE has been around since 1975 as a great partner to the #Boilermakers union. So what does NACBE stand for and what do they do? 🤔 Check it out: https://t.co/KA2PfV6hEJ pic.twitter.com/FTI80IgNM8 — Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) April 17, 2024
Bricklayers:Proud of our #tilesetters of BAC Local 4 #California who are working on the campuses of Indio College and Palomar College! #tilesetting #tilesetter #skilledtrades #buildingtrades #unionstrong #construction #unionpride #1u pic.twitter.com/0Z8Ho44Ndk — Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) April 14, 2024
Communications Workers of America:🚨@rocnewsguild journalists are on strike!Here's how you can support: https://t.co/JOXEMoUDUS — CWA (@CWAUnion) April 16, 2024
Department for Professional Employees:Securing FY25 funding for the NEA and NEH at $211 million is critical to building more inclusive arts, entertainment, and media industries. Contact your representatives in the House and Senate and urge them to support increased federal arts funding. https://t.co/HmJweCo9ls — Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) April 16, 2024
Electrical Workers:My #IBEW Story: Kim Davis, @ibewlocal332 pic.twitter.com/VkjimTgfx2 — IBEW (@IBEW) April 17, 2024
Heat and Frost Insulators:Insulators Local 69 Business Manager Steven Overby joined the @AWFUnionPodcast to talk about the workload in Local 69’s jurisdiction. Listen to the full interview: https://t.co/BqZKsHRTPH pic.twitter.com/JcS5BIswyq — Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) April 16, 2024
International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers:We're standing in support of the workers who print our money! IFPTE joins @DCLabor and @AFLCIO in calling on @BEPgov to stop the delay tactics and bargain a fair contract NOW! pic.twitter.com/UGBAA3yetH — IFPTE (@IFPTE) April 16, 2024
International Labor Communications Association:REMINDER: entry fees for the 2024 Labor Media Awards go up on April 20 from $40/entry to $60/entry! Submit your 2023 work to be considered for the contest by April 20 to pay the reduced fee! Learn more and submit: https://t.co/kgaMDbUFhM pic.twitter.com/U1QfMYzDY2 — International Labor Communications Association (@ILCAonline) April 16, 2024
Jobs With Justice:Today, we're sending solidarity & fortitude to Volkswagen workers in Chattanooga as they kick off their election to join @UAW. Each VW worker's vote to join the union marks a historic leap forward for all Southern workers and their right to stand united! #StandUpVW #StandUpUAW pic.twitter.com/zslSROJETz — Jobs With Justice (@jwjnational) April 17, 2024
Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:DYK? Only 56% of LGBTQI+ workers have paid sick leave, and just 31% have paid family leave. We need #PaidLeave for ALL families. #CareCantWait https://t.co/5cTSJwMZrd pic.twitter.com/TDYlY2K4BJ — LCLAA (@LCLAA) April 17, 2024
Labor Heritage Foundation:Hm, who can spot what’s missing at the Toledo Auto-Lite Strike Memorial? Anyone know where it is please email [email protected] pic.twitter.com/GrMURdhQTk — Labor Heritage (@LaborHeritage1) April 17, 2024
Laborers:Dive into the latest #ITK video from LIUNA for all things #PublicEmployees! You don’t want to miss it! WATCH NOW: https://t.co/rTr9b8awlK — LIUNA (@LIUNA) April 17, 2024
Machinists:The IAM applauds @POTUS's historic steps to safeguard U.S. shipbuilding and steel manufacturing workers, including launching a @USTradeRep investigation into China’s unfair trade practices in shipbuilding.Read full statement here: https://t.co/xi1v1H8V7I — Machinists Union (@MachinistsUnion) April 17, 2024
Maritime Trades Department:USTR MOVES FORWARD ON MTD-BACKED SHIPBUILDING PETITION@steelworkers @USTradeRep https://t.co/Sc296rYksY — Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO (@Maritime_Trades) April 17, 2024
Metal Trades Department:Kalypso and Royal IHC to Build First Jones Act-Compliant Offshore Wind Cable Layer https://t.co/GrYuQG4CKl — Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) April 16, 2024
Mine Workers:Live stream of @CecilRoberts , @ActSecJulieSu , @CWilliamsonWVMD ,and @NIOSH discuss the need to better protect miners from debilitating and deadly illnesses and announce new actions the @MSHA_DOL is taking to ensure all miners are protected on the job.https://t.co/RuqBzE0AlT — United Mine Workers (@MineWorkers) April 17, 2024
Musical Artists:Union busting relies on third-partying unions, presenting a union as external and negative. It's unfolding at Miami City Ballet, mirroring past Artist organizing efforts. Learn more about third-partying here: https://t.co/F9fQUcVmgZ pic.twitter.com/WefaTjHGlH — AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) April 17, 2024
National Air Traffic Controllers Association:The FAA will open its doors to new applicants nationwide from April 19 to 22. This is an opportunity to embark on a rewarding career, and be part of a team of highly trained and respected professionals. Learn more at https://t.co/pFKwIZ3Owg pic.twitter.com/3U322zttCQ — NATCA (@NATCA) April 17, 2024
National Association of Letter Carriers:Letter carriers appreciate your and @RepGarretGraves unwavering efforts to repeal the WEP & GPO! Thank you for your continued work. https://t.co/7sJEPEhiGo — Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) April 17, 2024
] National Day Laborer Organizing Network:Join @WeCount_Fl for Workers Memorial Day 2024! https://t.co/T1s4nZJ3m3 — NDLON (@NDLON) April 16, 2024
National Domestic Workers Alliance:Have you signed up for NDWA’s email or SMS list yet? If so you should have gotten the first clue in the Care Is Everywhere Scavenger Hunt! It’s not too late! Text “careworkers” to 33843 to submit the first clue and win a prize! pic.twitter.com/54sOT72rWP — Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) April 17, 2024
National Federation of Federal Employees:Lemie Gillesania Appointed as NFFE National Organizing Director:https://t.co/CO36i3xVGo — NFFE (@NFFE_Union) April 11, 2024
National Nurses United:These are the lengths our corporate bosses will go to in order to keep us from our right to a voice on the job and a safe and healthy workplace. 😡This award-winning piece by @jamieson is a must-read for all workers! https://t.co/NTy7OvvIKl — NationalNursesUnited (@NationalNurses) April 17, 2024
NWSL Players Association:Happy #NationalSiblingDay to the iconic duos, past & present of the NWSL! pic.twitter.com/sm5CnCyzJV — NWSLPA (@nwsl_players) April 10, 2024
NFL Players Association:Congratulations are in order to @CharlieBatch16 who opened a brand new home for his @BestoftheBatch foundation! 👏 https://t.co/lDkknUyELD pic.twitter.com/JC3Ystb7Rc — NFLPA (@NFLPA) April 12, 2024
North America's Building Trades Unions:Skilled trades are on the rise! 💼🛠️ Exciting to see young people realize what we have always known, the building trades are in the business of changing lives💪#InfrastructureGenerationhttps://t.co/AjaKJ9ywtG — The Building Trades (@NABTU) April 17, 2024
Painters and Allied Trades:Our members are at the forefront of protecting our nation's infrastructure & buildings from corrosion and wear.Here's our sister Sarah Jean doing thermal spray coating on a project in Connecticut, which is often applied to bridges, dams, piers and onshore & offshore facilites. pic.twitter.com/x7WwGDwd6o — IUPAT (@GoIUPAT) April 17, 2024
Plasterers and Cement Masons:Hannah Hamer is a proud @526admin journeyperson and #OPCMIA apprenticeship graduate!https://t.co/aSRIEBlpt2 pic.twitter.com/zHRY231ljh — OPCMIA International (@opcmiaintl) April 17, 2024
Pride At Work:PA FOLKS! https://t.co/SZLo3zmkJY — Pride at Work (@PrideatWork) April 16, 2024
Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:NY State Senator @JabariBrisport supports the #RetailWorkerSafety Act, which puts the onus on retail employers to provide safe workplaces for their workers without further criminalization.Will you join us? Write to NYS legislators: https://t.co/ZU1sHknitU pic.twitter.com/qw7YamF3AM — RWDSU (@RWDSU) April 17, 2024
Roofers and Waterproofers:Today belongs to the Volkswagen employees in Alabama who are voting in an election to unionize their workplace with @UAW. They are fighting for a brighter future. They are standing up for each other. #UnionYes pic.twitter.com/imfGSDuFbv — Roofers Union (@roofersunion) April 17, 2024
SAG-AFTRA:Check out the SAG-AFTRA podcast for an inside look at the world of video gaming with #SagAftraMember @NoshirDalal and NED & Chief Negotiator @DuncanCI. Discover performer challenges and why fair treatment is non-negotiable. 🎮🎙️ Listen now! https://t.co/jYGcxtymyU pic.twitter.com/4kZITm72dV — SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) April 17, 2024
Solidarity Center:Our survey of leather tannery workers in #Bangladesh shows that industrial pollution, dangerous working conditions and low wages are leaving workers and their families vulnerable to the increasing effects of the #climate crisis in the country. pic.twitter.com/4jLvOmTOT3 — Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) April 17, 2024
The NewsGuild-CWA:"We know that Gannett needs us, whether or not it wants to admit it. More importantly, we know that Rochester needs us—but we need a contract."Read from @CitizenMurphy on why D&C @rocnewsguild journalists are on strike:https://t.co/sMwOIYDizS — NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) April 16, 2024
Theatrical Stage Employees:The #WNBADraft at the Brooklyn Academy of Music was UNION-MADE by the proud kin of IATSE Local 4! 💪 pic.twitter.com/TcoOdxJxSd — IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) April 17, 2024
Transport Workers Union:.@skift writes on the new @Allegiant contract. The deal “makes Allegiant crews some of the best paid among U.S. ultra low-cost airlines” https://t.co/im7DxLGXs2 — TWU (@transportworker) April 17, 2024
Transportation Trades Department:The labor movement stands united against the hostile takeover attempt of Norfolk Southern Railroad. ✊The @AFLCIO is urging @nscorp shareholders to reject Ancora's proposed takeover, which would result in significant rail staffing and safety decreases: https://t.co/03m8QeTMfz pic.twitter.com/oqInhVsQuU — TTD | America's Transportation Unions (@TTDAFLCIO) April 16, 2024
UAW:After reaping nearly $6B in profits in 2023, Daimler Truck said they plan to increase stock dividends by 46%, instead of sharing the wealth with the workers who produce the profits. It's why Daimler workers are done playing second fiddle and are preparing to STAND UP! pic.twitter.com/aAG8pHrRGS — UAW (@UAW) April 16, 2024
Union Label and Service Trades Department:🔥🔥 “We’re going to win,” said Lisa Elliott, a quality control worker at VW. “We have the momentum. I know this will be a [historic] event.” https://t.co/C5WDEL3C0B — Union Label Dept. (@ULSTD_AFLCIO) April 17, 2024
UNITE HERE:🍻 https://t.co/JEC5bSHVOX — UNITE HERE (@unitehere) April 15, 2024
United Food and Commercial Workers:Get ready to expand your knowledge & skills w/ the UFCW Discount College Program. Access a wide range of program options from certificates to bachelor's & even master's degrees. Part-time or full-time, online classes make learning convenient for you!➡️ https://t.co/vJfcSxhgs0 pic.twitter.com/UijkXr0agY — UFCW (@UFCW) April 17, 2024
United Steelworkers:The U.S. Mine Safety and Health Administration today realized a longtime USW priority when it issued a final rule updating standards to significantly reduce worker exposure to silica dust.Learn more: https://t.co/p6bVyyWtIM pic.twitter.com/ycQ6diEcEB — United Steelworkers #EverybodysUnion (@steelworkers) April 16, 2024
Utility Workers:MUST READ: Wind turbine technician is expected to be one of the fastest growing jobs this decade, and Wired magazine profiled one of our members to get the scoop. 🧵 https://t.co/ITMos2aKJh pic.twitter.com/WUnVvwHSHb — UWUA National (@The_UWUA) April 17, 2024
Working America:Stay cool during heat waves with the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)! Learn more about how this federal program may help cover your cooling costs and even repair your AC unit. Check out if you qualify here: https://t.co/HdcHFNx4BS #LIHEAP #WorkingAmerica pic.twitter.com/s4dsEf1L8w — Working America (@WorkingAmerica) April 16, 2024
Writers Guild of America East:"S" is for solidarity! Show your support for WGA members at Sesame Workshop fighting for a fair deal before their current contract expires THIS Friday. #1uSend a letter to execs calling for a fair union contract that protects writers at Sesame:https://t.co/T9XvpGBzMH — Writers Guild of America East (@WGAEast) April 17, 2024
Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 04/17/2024 - 15:43 — Apr 17 -
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Send a Letter and Tell Congress to Support Increased Federal Arts Funding 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 — Apr 17
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Thank A Union: In the States Roundup Thank A Union: 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). Alaska AFL-CIO:
The list goes on and on. #UnionStrong #1u pic.twitter.com/3G0nv8Vbrf — Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) April 12, 2024
Arizona AFL-CIO:Internet access is vital in today's world, and the Affordable Connectivity Program has helped millions get online. But it's running out of funding in TWO WEEKS. Call/email Congress to fund the ACP now to ensure access for all! #FundACP #InternetForAllhttps://t.co/CaIPbyl4Pw — Arizona AFL-CIO (@ArizonaAFLCIO) April 11, 2024
California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:Thanks to the Biden administration’s new site https://t.co/5hRHAtcpOO Californians have more options than ever to file their federal taxes for FREE! Free CA state return filing and free tax prep help is also available — check out our video for more info! pic.twitter.com/A4BCsxzPCe — California Labor Federation (@CaliforniaLabor) April 10, 2024
Connecticut AFL-CIO:After 10 hours on strike, facilities workers at the University of New Haven won a new contract! #solidarity @217unitehere https://t.co/mPa9GlGOHf — Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) April 12, 2024
Florida AFL-CIO:Gov. DeSantis works for the bosses, not for you. https://t.co/3QgZNQ18jB — Florida AFL-CIO (@FLAFLCIO) April 12, 2024
Georgia State AFL-CIO:#sundayvibes https://t.co/uGKqDe3IEp — Georgia AFL-CIO (@AFLCIOGeorgia) April 14, 2024
Illinois AFL-CIO:A "commitment" to responsible supply chains + sustainability without signing onto the Accord is just lip-service when complacence is a matter of life + death. Tomorrow, 4/16, join @WorkersUnited to tell @LEVIS to #SignTheAccord.📍Levi's, 600 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago🕑 4PM pic.twitter.com/pHeCSo0bDA — Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) April 15, 2024
Maine AFL-CIO:Here's our latest on our progress on the state budget, Buy American legislation & support for Federal & State workers during government shutdowns https://t.co/v4zwOValM0 — Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) April 12, 2024
Massachusetts AFL-CIO:Shoutout to @GBLCBoston for holding an informative legislative breakfast this morning pic.twitter.com/MAGyybfRJt — Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) April 11, 2024
Michigan State AFL-CIO:Eid Mubarak to our Muslim brothers and sisters as the Holy Month of Ramadan comes to a close. pic.twitter.com/QcGNpdm2J2 — Michigan AFL-CIO ✊ (@MIAFLCIO) April 10, 2024
Minnesota AFL-CIO:We’re at the Capitol today rallying support of the #DebtFairness Act. This bill would end some of the worst practices that medical debt collectors use. #1u #mnleg pic.twitter.com/oxzgB7Ursp — Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) April 15, 2024
Missouri AFL-CIO:Orange cones ahead? Slow down and proceed with caution. Let’s protect our road workers and ensure everyone gets home safely. #WorkZoneAwarenessWeek #NWZAW pic.twitter.com/h8zaPWFnIq — Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) April 15, 2024
Nevada State AFL-CIO:Today, the delegates of the Nevada State AFL-CIO convened at IBEW 357 union hall and voted to endorse the following candidates for the 2024 election cycle. pic.twitter.com/YB4F8wMxYC — Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) April 13, 2024
New York State AFL-CIO:Union drip ❤️ https://t.co/B7pr5IZrPg — NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) April 11, 2024
North Carolina State AFL-CIO:"[W]e stand united with our @UAW family, and their families, like we do in our schools and communities every single day." @NCAE Op-Ed: In NC auto workers’ fight for better wages, public school teachers see themselves https://t.co/pvgJfq3Mym @cardinalandpine #StandUpDaimler #1u — NC State AFL-CIO // #CountMeIn (@NCStateAFLCIO) April 11, 2024
Ohio AFL-CIO:The @GOP talks about being pro American worker, but almost never has the votes to help us! https://t.co/equt3lkWEW — Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) April 15, 2024
Oregon AFL-CIO:Huge thanks to the @GoIUPAT @DOLJobCorps painters for your work on our exterior walls! pic.twitter.com/UXUVW1xgXh — Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) April 15, 2024
Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:"It shows that our union and our congressmen are behind us 100 percent," Rob Jones, an operating technician 1 for U.S. Steel on the Mon Valley said.https://t.co/qWo3mZdaVv — PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) April 15, 2024
Rhode Island AFL-CIO:Happy 121st Birthday 🎂🎂 to our union siblings at @LIUNA ! Here's to another 121 years and 1 million members. #Solidarity #HappyBirthday #Union @GPBrentBooker @GSTMFSabitoni @LIUNA @LIUNALocal271 @LIUNANewEngland https://t.co/ntZuQe14Lt — Rhode Island AFL-CIO (@riaflcio) April 13, 2024
Tennessee AFL-CIO Labor Council:With flow motion now in effect on the Hill, the proceedings will begin to move even faster and with less restrictions.Learn more about what that means for the bills that we're still tracking in our latest legislative update ⬇ #TNLeg #1uhttps://t.co/jCzJC9pPz7 — Tennessee AFL-CIO (@tnaflcio) April 15, 2024
Texas AFL-CIO:We stand in solidarity with United Steelworkers 13-227 and call on management to negotiate in good faith toward a fair contract. #1u https://t.co/KL4tf1Q2Dd — Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) April 15, 2024
Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:The sound of solidarity is ringing across downtown Bellevue as striking @ibewlocal46 Limited Energy electricians and supporters rally for a fair contract. Solidarity forever with these brave workers! #1u pic.twitter.com/DH2A6inTQI — Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) April 15, 2024
Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:Worker power. The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) announced last week that the number of union election petitions rose 35% during the first six months of fiscal year 2024 compared to the same period last year. pic.twitter.com/rgc2nytLtg — WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) April 15, 2024
Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 04/16/2024 - 09:14 — Apr 16 -
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Wichita Nurses Ratify First-Ever Union Contracts at Ascension Hospitals 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 — Apr 16
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We Need Shared Governance Back: The Working People Weekly List 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 — Apr 15
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