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Keep the Cops Out of Our Shop, Seattle Bookstore Workers Propose
George Floyd was murdered by police after a retail worker reported that he had paid with an allegedly counterfeit $20 bill, and we know this was no isolated incident. So at the bookstore where I work, many of us have been thinking about the times when police have been called to our workplace.
After 500 Issues, A Look at Labor Notes Then and Now
How was Labor Notes #1, from February 1979, different from Labor Notes #500, the issue we just sent to the printer? There’s the obvious:
Tracking Remote Employees: How To Not Cross The Line
4 Overlooked Workplace Safety Hazards and What You Can Do About It
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: IAFF Fights Opioid Epidemic
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service + Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
While the world remains consumed by the COVID-19 pandemic, another public health crisis continues to rage. The opioid epidemic has ravaged our country, and it’s estimated that in the United States alone, nearly 130 people die every day from opioid overdose. The Fire Fighters (IAFF) have launched a new online resource, “Responding to the Opioid Epidemic,” a 10-segment video and podcast series. The series provides an in-depth understanding of opioid addiction and treatment, addiction treatment considerations for firefighters, and responsible approaches to pain management for firefighters.
IAFF General President Harold Schaitberger said, “The U.S. and Canada are in the midst of a severe public health crisis caused by a surge in opioid misuse, addiction and overdose. Our members have a front row seat to the devastating impact of this epidemic and need more resources and training to continue to address this challenge head-on. We also have to work with all levels of government and community organizations to keep this crisis from continuing to grow.” Visit IAFF.org/Opioid-Epidemic to learn more.
The “Other America”: The Poverty and Peril of Domestic Workers
Jobless claims jump, hitting highest level since mid-August
This Crisis Makes Clear: We Need a Four-Day Work Week, Now
Review: Forty Years of Working-Class Films
If you search for films about labor, one makes every list: Norma Rae. This most iconic of union movies was a critical and box office smash when it came out in 1979, the same year Labor Notes published its first issue. At that moment, when more Americans than ever before were union members, it wasn’t surprising that a movie about a gutsy labor organizer would prove popular.
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: CSEA Ramps Up Member-to-Member Election Campaign in California
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service + Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
While California may not be a battleground state when it comes to the presidential election, there are still important initiatives and state legislative races on the ballot. The California School Employees Association (CSEA) is not taking anything for granted. Instead, the union is pushing hard with its member-to-member phone call and text message program. “It’s exciting watching so many members volunteer their time to support election efforts,” CSEA President Ben Valdepeña said. He pointed out that thousands of calls and text messages have been sent to CSEA members over the past few weeks, with the get-out-the-vote outreach set to continue leading up to Election Day. CSEA and its member volunteers are fighting hard to pass Proposition 15, which would create fair and reliable funding for the state’s public schools.
Unions Are Beginning to Talk About Staving Off a Possible Coup
“Therefore, be it finally resolved that the Rochester Labor Council, AFL-CIO calls on the National AFL-CIO, all of its affiliate unions, and all other labor organizations in the United States of America to prepare for and enact a general strike of all working people, if necessary, to ensure a Constitutionally mandated peaceful transition of power as a result of the 2020 Presidential Elections.”
Join CWAers to Phonebank Together to Elect Biden!
Hundreds of CWAers across the country are phonebanking together to flip the Senate and to elect Joe Biden and Kamala Harris!
AT&T’s DSL Shutoff Will Leave Thousands of Consumers Without a Broadband Option
AT&T recently announced that it will discontinue DSL sales nationally and disconnect 160,000 DSL customers, only some of whom have access to another wireline service from AT&T.
CWA Leaders Build Skills at 2020 Minority Leadership Institute
Despite the challenges of the pandemic, eleven CWA leaders participated in the 2020 Minority Leadership Institute, held virtually this year.
How Unions Can Lay the Ground for the Next Upsurge
Accident at New Flyer Non-Union Plant Highlights Need for a Worker Voice
Last week at a non-union New Flyer bus part fabrication plant in Kentucky, a worker who was using a machine missing its safety guard, lost part of her finger in an accident.
CWA Urges New Mexico Supreme Court to Uphold State Oversight of CenturyLink
In February, the NMPRC approved a hearing examiner's recommendation to reject CenturyLink's claim that it should be exempt from regulation.
National Hispanic Heritage Month Profiles: Linda Chavez-Thompson
How Unions Can Lay the Ground for the Next Upsurge
I started in the labor movement in the mid-90s, when the fall in union density from 23 percent of the workforce in 1980 to 15 percent in 1994 had created a crisis at the top. In response, the “New Voices” slate led by the Service Employees’ John Sweeney defeated heir apparent Thomas Donahue in the first contested election in AFL-CIO history.
National Hispanic Heritage Month Profiles: Linda Chavez-Thompson
Throughout National Hispanic Heritage Month, the AFL-CIO will be profiling labor leaders and activists to spotlight the diverse contributions Hispanics and Latinos have made to our movement. Today's profile features Linda Chavez-Thompson.
A second-generation American of Mexican descent, Chavez-Thompson grew up in Lubbock, Texas. An oft-told anecdote from her childhood told the story of a young Chavez-Thompson convincing her father that her mother should stay home and care for the household rather than working in the fields. She and her siblings threatened to walk off the job in support of her mother. Her father agreed and Chavez-Thompson got her first organizing victory.
In 1967, she started working as a secretary at the Laborers (LIUNA) local in Lubbock. As the only bilingual staff member, she soon became the union representative for Spanish-speaking LIUNA members. Before long, she was drafting grievances for workers and representing them in administrative proceedings.
Later, she moved to San Antonio and began working with AFSCME. In 1986, she began serving as a national vice president for the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement. Her accomplishments and hard work helped her become an international vice president of AFSCME in 1988, and in 1993, she was elected to serve as a vice president on the AFL-CIO Executive Council. In 1995, she won her election to become the federation's first elected executive vice president. She was the first person of color to hold one of the AFL-CIO's top three positions.
During her time as an AFL-CIO officer, Chavez-Thompson focused heavily on recruitment, particularly trying to convince more women and people of color to join unions. She also focused on teaching the importance of unions to young people. Even more successful were her efforts to partner with community groups in recruiting members and fighting back against anti-union efforts. She represented the federation and working people in a variety of organizations, including the National Interfaith Committee for Worker Justice, the Institute for Women’s Policy Research, the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute, the United Way of America and the Democratic National Committee. She also was elected president of the Inter-American Regional Organization of Workers, a part of the International Confederation of Free Trade Unions.
Chavez-Thompson retired from the AFL-CIO in 2007.
This post originally appeared on the AFL-CIO blog in 2018.
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: IBEW Members Volunteer Labor of Love for Crisis Center in Missouri
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service + Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
A crisis center and shelter in Jefferson City, Missouri, now has bright, efficient lighting, thanks to a dozen Electrical Workers (IBEW) volunteers who were proud to lend a hand. The members of Local 257 gave their time and talent to help the community’s Rape and Abuse Crisis Service (RACS) spare funds that are badly needed to aid and shelter survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. The workers at the center expressed their gratitude.
“We were glad to answer the call. That’s what we do as IBEW members,” said local President Joel Vanderslice (pictured on the right), who helmed the project. “And we want to thank RACS for everything they do, and for being such a great organization to work with.”
Through energy audits, RACS leaders learned that a lighting upgrade could save thousands of dollars in coming years, with the additional benefit of making their two-story building safer and more secure. The center, which can house up to 36 residents, was largely vacant at the time IBEW members were there volunteering, as the pandemic forced RACS to spread out its services.
Make a Family Plan to Vote: 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:
Actors' Equity is fighting for diversity, inclusion and the principles of equal opportunity for all who work in the theatre industry. By submitting your self-ID, you can help Equity fight against hiring bias and discrimination. https://t.co/p2c1r3DgSY pic.twitter.com/lguGMytUCI
— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) October 8, 2020
AFGE:
All while @SecWilkie and @realDonaldTrump team up to take away VA workers’ right to a union and a fair contract! https://t.co/3ty6yPqjPr
— AFGE (@AFGENational) October 8, 2020
AFSCME:
By walking away from negotiations on COVID-19 #stimulus legislation, @realDonaldTrump has shown the true measure of his callousness and cruelty today. He simply doesn’t care. Read more about this tragic failure of leadership: https://t.co/qrZGSow3cS pic.twitter.com/4CoVBnZeRo
— AFSCME (@AFSCME) October 6, 2020
Air Line Pilots Association:
Attention ALPA pilots! ALPA has partnered with Cage Marshall Consulting to create a series of webinars for ALPA members who may need assistance or guidance during this current aviation industry downturn.
— ALPA (@WeAreALPA) October 8, 2020
Register here: https://t.co/oKKruIfmdQ
*ALPA member number is required. pic.twitter.com/B6H3YONw32
Alliance for Retired Americans:
Are you planning to:
— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) October 5, 2020
☑️ Vote early
☑️ Vote by mail
☑️ Vote on Election Day
Whatever you choose, just make sure to vote. (visit https://t.co/bsxrGohd0z to get #VoteReady) pic.twitter.com/JtnIticfUD
Amalgamated Transit Union:
As hero ATU members transport people during the #COVID19 pandemic, they deserve #hazardpay as essential workers on the frontlines. #TogetherWeFightTogetherWeWin #1u pic.twitter.com/EwsUtUJppW
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) October 8, 2020
American Federation of Musicians:
TY @questlove https://t.co/59QUWRrZ4b Many of our fellow musicians depend on residuals to earn a living and to feed their families. @The_AFM is asking the networks for a fair wage for #tvmusicians, healthcare benefits and parity in pay with other creatives. #RespectUs #FairPay pic.twitter.com/rIU7IxXdPM
— AFM (@The_AFM) October 8, 2020
American Federation of Teachers:
"#DoYourJob Mr. President get us the protective equipment we need to do our jobs, to save lives." Today, AFT has joined fellow unions & environmental allies to sue the federal government for its failure to provide #PPEforAll. @rweingarten https://t.co/97p6zlslAi
— AFT (@AFTunion) October 8, 2020
American Postal Workers Union:
APWU's Labor 2020 campaign is fighting to defend the public Postal Service this election season - sign up here to volunteer. *Do not click, share, react to or read this post on work time or USPS/federal property. https://t.co/j6nuexhyWg
— APWU National (@APWUnational) October 8, 2020
Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance:
More than 11 million AAPIs are eligible to vote this year. Make sure everyone in our communities has access to their voting rights! Join APALA’s weekly text and phone banks! 📣
— Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance, AFL-CIO (@APALAnational) October 7, 2020
Phone bank: https://t.co/0vnPqAnWOo
Text bank: https://t.co/XUQ9YmBgcA pic.twitter.com/O1FudQ5Ifr
Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:
Tweet your members of Congress: https://t.co/PFfgWQZ9pu
— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) October 8, 2020
Write your members of Congress: https://t.co/QUhCsGIXtG
Sign up to RSVP or Host #ExtendPSP #ReliefNow Events: https://t.co/iQQcW2KKBT
Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers:
September is Pet Health Insurance month and @UnionPlus has you covered with exclusive union member discounts on pet insurance. Get a free quote TODAY 👉 https://t.co/zXbCkCmxH0 #1u pic.twitter.com/Ulf0H32ZB0
— BCTGM International (@BCTGM) September 23, 2020
Boilermakers:
Congratulations to the 2020 #BoilermakersUnion scholarship winners! 🎉🎓 Read more here: https://t.co/XnT9GXwWM4 pic.twitter.com/GJW4IxKQUC
— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) October 8, 2020
Bricklayers:
.@bacmwlocal7 apprentices getting the best masonry training in the business. 👷 https://t.co/0oTdSNfoR5
— Bricklayers Union (@IUBAC) October 6, 2020
California School Employees Association:
#AB2234 will give school personnel commissions independence from district influence, ensuring staff receive fair hearings. Thank you @EdChau49 for sponsoring and @GavinNewsom for signing! https://t.co/GLQrrFGL6U
— CSEA (@CSEA_Now) September 10, 2020
Coalition of Black Trade Unionists:
PAY ATTENTION
— CBTU (@CBTU72) October 6, 2020
There’s only 27 days until Election Day. Have you made your FAMILY PLAN to vote? No excuses. Get specific! Go to https://t.co/UiAn2wEnxO to get started. #2020Election
Coalition of Labor Union Women:
📣 This is it: October voter registration deadlines are approaching in over 25 states for the fall elections. Check the voter registration deadlines here: https://t.co/uSL4Wps50n Don’t miss your chance to make your voice heard: https://t.co/zRFmBHJ5Mv pic.twitter.com/5riCoWxLvM
— CLUW National (@CLUWNational) October 5, 2020
Communications Workers of America:
BREAKING: Labor unions representing millions of frontline workers joined environmental groups to sue the government for failing to provide #PPEforAll.https://t.co/HynuS1xzll
— CWA (@CWAUnion) October 8, 2020
Department for Professional Employees:
Kickstarter is paying for retaliating against an employee who helped organize their coworkers. #1u https://t.co/x1yGeVNoxx
— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) October 8, 2020
Electrical Workers:
#IBEW photo contest deadline has been extended to Nov.1. https://t.co/7ygxHIAO0F
— IBEW (@IBEW) October 7, 2020
Farm Labor Organizing Committee:
Black/Brown Unity Coalition is working to expand on code of conduct with police https://t.co/JJ0o1Jsv81 via @toledonews
— Farm Labor Organizing Committee (@SupportFLOC) October 5, 2020
Fire Fighters:
RT @SPFFAL534: While digging through union documentation we discovered these inaugural meeting minutes of the SPFFA; affiliating with the IAFF @IAFFNewsDesk dated Sept 23rd, 1937. A treasured piece of union history. @opffa @iaff13thdvp pic.twitter.com/6lLBTjjQwa
— IAFF (@IAFFNewsDesk) October 8, 2020
Heat and Frost Insulators:
You won't find your latest edition of the USA Magazine in the mailbox because it should be in your inbox!
— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) October 8, 2020
Check it out, USA went digital!
Find all the great content at your fingertips. https://t.co/ybPZM84kqK
International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers:
#WhenWeStrikeWeWin ! https://t.co/FG7E6Uqnzm
— IFPTE (@IFPTE) October 8, 2020
International Labor Communications Association:
You're on deadline! It's time to submit your best work of 2019 into our Labor Media Awards contest. You can't win if you don't enter. Deadline is approaching. https://t.co/Z5ZipUIwY2 pic.twitter.com/UJyWtkL6ai
— Labor Communications (@ILCAonline) September 11, 2020
Ironworkers:
Recent studies are casting serious doubt about the safety, resiliency, sustainability, and efficiency of Mass timber and engineered wood products like CLT. For more information, visit https://t.co/AqvFvJLIPQ pic.twitter.com/SMwVRanZfD
— Ironworkers. (@TheIronworkers) October 7, 2020
Italian American Actors:
GIAA - the Guild of Italian American Actors - is proud to join our sister union @ActorsEquity in endorsing @JoeBiden & @KamalaHarris @carlofiorletta, GIAA president https://t.co/fy77Y2dcGd
— GIAA (@GIAA_Union) September 21, 2020
Jobs With Justice:
Seven months into a pandemic -- and we're STILL asking thousands of frontline workers to go to work WITHOUT the PPE they need 😷
— Jobs With Justice (@jwjnational) October 8, 2020
Unions and activists have had no choice but to sue 👉 https://t.co/BszKDsP62w pic.twitter.com/h2Hp9vBqhT
Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:
Click here if you haven't registered✍🏽https://t.co/rvlwDWgH8Y...#Changeisintheballot #VoteReady #2020elections #Vote
— LCLAA (@LCLAA) October 8, 2020
Laborers:
The COVID-19 outbreak is an unprecedented global threat to our health and welfare, our economy, and our way of life! #VOTE for the candidate who has your back! #LIUNAVotes2020 #LIUNAForBiden #Covid
— LIUNA (@LIUNA) October 7, 2020
LEARN MORE: https://t.co/2aHuUtEd6S pic.twitter.com/LF3q41pNoi
Longshoremen:
@ILAUnion @TheILAmobileApp – ILA Employees covered under MILA will not experience a loss or reduction of the MILA coverage they had in the 2020 Contract year caused by COVID-19. https://t.co/r9OFHCBpRB
— Int'l LongshoreAssoc (@ILAUnion) October 1, 2020
Machinists:
In Pennsylvania, @IAM_Local_1776 is getting out the vote for #TeamJoe! pic.twitter.com/x1LMpSzJ8e
— Machinists Union ✈️🚊🚀 (@MachinistsUnion) October 6, 2020
Metal Trades Department:
The Coalition Chronicle spotlighted MTD President James Hart in its September edition. In the article, the newsletter highlighted President Hart's recent presentation to the DSB discussing the labor perspective on the issue of industrial capability ... https://t.co/14OQjyBKRB pic.twitter.com/s7rpdgNRYz
— Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) September 30, 2020
Mine Workers:
During these troubling times, we want to give a shout out to our members in Local Union 8431! These aviation bus drivers are located in Denver, Colorado. Thank you for all that you do! #1u pic.twitter.com/rLKvcXegCm
— United Mine Workers (@MineWorkers) October 1, 2020
Musical Artists:
That’s a wrap! To access the entire series of safety webinars -- co-hosted by AGMA and @SDCweb and featuring our medical experts -- login to MyAGMA and, from the dropdown menu, select “COVID-19: A Collective Response.” pic.twitter.com/BoVLtwyy8x
— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) October 2, 2020
National Air Traffic Controllers Association:
Meet Tom Morello our honorary NATCA Brother and Union Activist:
— NATCACharitable (@NATCACharitable) October 8, 2020
We are so proud and honored that our brother @tmorello is speaking out to support @NATCA, NCF, and #SuicidePrevention. Please watch as our brother and legend calls on us to support one another, NCF, and @afspnational pic.twitter.com/Aq2nob3YUf
National Association of Letter Carriers:
An elderly customer's full mailbox alerted carrier Karl Herklotz. He informed a neighbor, who in turn called police to do a welfare check. The woman was found on the kitchen floor & had broken her hip. She's recovering in the hospital. #HeroesDelivering https://t.co/UroMgiVkjj
— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) October 8, 2020
National Day Laborer Organizing Network:
We’re EXTREMELY excited to work with @ernestoyerena + @obeygiant for the distribution of these incredible posters! #StopFascism #AltoAlFascismo #VoteAgainstHate #VotaContraElOdio #SoloElPuebloSalvaAlPueblo #MutualAid #UnmaskHate
— NDLON (@NDLON) October 3, 2020
More info: https://t.co/RceJATMGDo pic.twitter.com/Dd7oyG4bHl
National Domestic Workers Alliance:
The legacy of Black domestic workers is one of leadership and courage. Because of our ancestors, we are powerful. Learn about the #UnbossedAgenda and the work we’re doing to bring it to life. https://t.co/Xuv972UduE
— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) October 8, 2020
National Federation of Federal Employees:
In what seems like the longest twelve months ever, NFFE ended the Fiscal Year in active fashion on the #legislative front. https://t.co/pawyXPx7sX
— NFFE (@NFFE_Union) October 5, 2020
National Nurses United:
We are heartbroken to learn of the death of NNU member Sally Solon Fontanilla, RN, who lost her life on the front line of #Covid19.
— NationalNursesUnited (@NationalNurses) October 8, 2020
Our solidarity is with her family during this challenging time, and with all nurses in the fight for optimal PPE.https://t.co/KOdq2aMP6V
National Taxi Workers Alliance:
Cabbies are doing a SLOOOOOWWWW DOWN for debt relief.
— NY Taxi Workers (@NYTWA) October 8, 2020
No more bankruptcies! No more suicides! pic.twitter.com/Vbr2LLihlx
NFL Players Association:
The signs of a mental illness can sometimes be subtle–check in with someone you trust, or take the NFL Life Line Wellness Check: https://t.co/YJB2wg8Y0W. #mentalhealthawareness pic.twitter.com/uWdsBz34EM
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) October 8, 2020
North America's Building Trades Unions:
Throwing it wayyyy back today.
— The Building Trades (@NABTU) October 8, 2020
Watch this video of #BuildingTrades union members from 1929 😱 https://t.co/aAUXxpcvM5
Office and Professional Employees:
A president who cares about working people wouldn’t have intentionally reduced the effectiveness of OSHA. #BuildBackBetter https://t.co/S0tqbxmnao
— OPEIU (@OPEIU) October 7, 2020
Painters and Allied Trades:
When we stand together as workers, we have the power to improve the lives of the entire working class and the ability to transform this country so it works for all of us.
— IUPAT (@GoIUPAT) October 8, 2020
Plasterers and Cement Masons:
“At least 33 million workers are being hurt by the coronavirus recession... Fiscal aid to S&L govts and extending the unemployment insurance provisions of the CARES Act...would create or save 5.3 million and 5.1 million jobs...” https://t.co/u38yLwmmD7
— OPCMIA International (@opcmiaintl) October 8, 2020
Professional Aviation Safety Specialists:
From the beginning, current administration & political appointees have attacked bargaining rights of federal workers. JFK granted those rights in 1962 declaring they contribute "to the effective conduct of public business." PASS will continue to fight for our members' rights. #1u https://t.co/9noLlPgRBI
— PASS (@PASSNational) October 5, 2020
Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:
The #NYHeroAct creates enforceable safety standards to protect NY's essential workers. “It should have happened a long time ago,” said RWDSU member and #COVID19 survivor Beena Martinez. #ProtectNYHeroes
— RWDSU (@RWDSU) October 8, 2020
Read more from @StevenWishnia in @LaborPressNY: https://t.co/vY3dd5Mgks pic.twitter.com/geS89ixGcj
Roofers and Waterproofers:
Construction workers who work on roofs or other high places are at risk of being struck by lightning. Protect yourself during a storm: https://t.co/w5NYMoB4ja #roofersafety365 pic.twitter.com/MCoK1ENPN1
— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) September 30, 2020
SAG-AFTRA:
What's your voting plan? Here's a handy checklist to make sure you're ready! https://t.co/KX2bPtjV5B https://t.co/Bh8usvGCed #sagaftramembersvote #sagaftravotes #VOTE #Election2020 pic.twitter.com/VESnapWCaX
— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) October 8, 2020
School Administrators:
Our schools, which he demanded open in-person, lack the #PPE, #Plexiglass and technology to continue to operate safely in-person or connect all students online and cannot wait until after the election for a funding infusion.
— The School Leader (@AFSAUnion) October 7, 2020
Solidarity Center:
In #Bangladesh, 1 million+ garment workers have been fired or furloughed due to cancelled orders and buyers’ refusal to pay. Despite a govt package of $500m+ to factories to help mitigate job losses, workers report not being paid for 2 months or more.https://t.co/m2CfmPWkrx
— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) October 8, 2020
The NewsGuild-CWA:
With the loss of 1/4 of newspapers in the past couple of years, we’ve lost journalists showing up community board meetings and keeping us informed on the issues that matter. We must support local journalists and #SaveTheNews.
— NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) October 8, 2020
Theatrical Stage Employees:
The "Friends" apartment became one of the most popular dwellings in the world thanks to ADG Local 800 Member John Shaffner. https://t.co/71t6xYpy8w
— IATSE (@IATSE) October 8, 2020
Transport Workers Union:
TWU International Representative Theotis James is doing some phone banking for Joe Biden and Kamala Harris. You can also be part of the fun - tonight! Click on the link below to sign up. #GOTV #Election2020 #Labor2020 #Vote2020https://t.co/7OGvgLjtR2 pic.twitter.com/ux9ZFagw9f
— TWU (@transportworker) October 8, 2020
Transportation Trades Department:
Hours after Trump announced his positive Covid-19 test, his administration rejected a plan by transportation labor unions to require masks on planes & trains. Read more in @RollingStone:https://t.co/VGu9onon6J
— Transp. Trades Dept. (@TTDAFLCIO) October 3, 2020
UAW:
All voters deserve to have their voices heard without interference or misinformation.
— UAW (@UAW) October 2, 2020
For the information you need to cast your ballot, visit https://t.co/IE8ZROeUPc. https://t.co/SWKlg9aNBZ
Union Label and Service Trades Department:
Trump’s Manufacturing Record Stinks, Newest Data Shows | Washington Monthly https://t.co/iVPb16WKlw
— Union Label Dept. (@ULSTD_AFLCIO) October 1, 2020
Union Veterans Council:
Not just the flu... https://t.co/loU6Apa7xa
— Union Veterans Council (@unionveterans) October 6, 2020
UNITE HERE:
#COVID19 turned us into frontline workers. We keep travel safe by protecting the health of our guests – but we need PPE & social distancing to do it. Thanks for the shout-out Sen. @KamalaHarris! #VPDebate
— UNITE HERE #TakeBack2020 (@unitehere) October 8, 2020
But when it comes to knocking in battleground states... we got it covered! pic.twitter.com/vZkW2Cr1DL
United Food and Commercial Workers:
BREAKING: 56,000 @StopandShop grocery workers just secured #HazardPay for bravely stepping up this past summer to keep families fed as #COVID19 continues.@UFCW will keep fighting until all America's brave frontline workers get #HazardPay they deserve. https://t.co/K7BlxHdY8B pic.twitter.com/fbl0L46whq
— UFCW (@UFCW) September 25, 2020
United Steelworkers:
Five weeks of free union education https://t.co/Z5yDhp9Amt #USWUnity
— United Steelworkers (@steelworkers) October 8, 2020
United Students Against Sweatshops:
USAS Coordinating Committee signed on and joined the @DenverLaborFed, and you should too! Justice for #ElijahMcClain ✊🏾 Drop the charges on anti-racist organizers! #DropTheChargesCO #1u https://t.co/OWEP2pHrCV
— USAS (@USAS) October 3, 2020
Utility Workers:
Ready to vote? Our union values and the ability to organize and have your voice heard is on the ballot this November. Don’t leave your future to chance - make your voting plan today. https://t.co/td0rVFohBX pic.twitter.com/XV1fzO9NSD
— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) October 8, 2020
Working America:
Outdated labor laws and cuts to worker protections have worsened the effects of the pandemic and failed American workers. Workers’ rights are human rights.https://t.co/cxGIsakQTv
— Working America (@WorkingAmerica) October 8, 2020
Writers Guild of America, East:
Collective bargaining will ensure that creative professionals at Parcast have a seat at the table. We look forward to negotiations and we welcome the @ParcastUnion to the Guild.
— Writers Guild of America, East (@WGAEast) October 6, 2020
Read the full WGAE statement here: https://t.co/ZfkKUfuomP https://t.co/F4r93DtjWg
Cyberbullying: What to Do If You’re Being Bullied or Abused During Remote Work
The Details of Worker Abuse at One of the World’s Largest Logistics Companies Are Appalling
With City’s Economic Future in Doubt, Can New York Unions Stop the Cuts?
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: Wyoming AFL-CIO and Affiliates Register New Voters in Cheyenne
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service + Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
The Wyoming State AFL-CIO held a voter registration drive outside at the Cheyenne Historic Depot Plaza on Oct. 3, as part of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Local 279’s annual chili cook-off, supporting the local’s Fill the Boot campaign in raising funds for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. It was the single best registration drive in Wyoming this year, a place where local races are often won and lost by a handful of votes. Another voter registration drive will be held Oct. 10 at the Electrical Workers (IBEW) hall. State federation Executive Secretary Tammy Johnson (USW) said: “We had a fabulous event with our brothers and sisters from IAFF, IBEW, Laborers (LIUNA), AFGE and the Communications Workers of America (CWA). The Wyoming State AFL-CIO is proud to be part of a giving, vibrant and growing union movement.”
East Bay Health Care Workers Strike Forces County to Disband the Boss
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: ‘Drive Thru to Beat the Flu’ Event Hosted by Hawaii State AFL-CIO
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service + Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
The Hawaii State AFL-CIO’s Labor Community Services Program partnered with My Health Solutions in anticipation of an active flu season amidst a global pandemic. To combat the “twindemic” of COVID-19 and influenza, a drive-through flu vaccination clinic called Drive Thru to Beat the Flu was held in Honolulu last Saturday and Sunday. “Our clinic was available to everyone with or without insurance. So many of our people have either been furloughed or have lost their jobs and their health insurance due to COVID-19. We know a healthier community is a way to get people back to work and create more stability in our lives. We intend to take this program to the neighboring islands in November,” said Catherine Lederer (AFSCME), director of the Labor Community Services Program. Some 700 people were vaccinated over the two days.
With City's Economic Future in Doubt, Can New York Unions Stop the Cuts?
The COVID-19 pandemic has killed nearly 25,000 New York City residents. The worst of the public health crisis may have passed, but its dire toll has triggered a second crisis. Shutting down huge swaths of the economy was necessary to save lives, but the deep freeze on economic activity has plunged the city into its worst fiscal crisis since the troubled 1970s.
Reality TV and Real Work in the Fishing Industry
East Bay Health Care Workers Strike Forces County to Disband the Boss
On day two of their five-day strike, Alameda Health System workers in California's East Bay won a landmark victory. After years of stalling, the elected Board of Supervisors of Alameda County suddenly announced they would disband the unelected Board of Trustees that has long mismanaged this public safety-net health care system.
National Hispanic Heritage Month Profiles: Henry L. 'Hank' Lacayo
Throughout National Hispanic Heritage Month, the AFL-CIO will be profiling labor leaders and activists to spotlight the diverse contributions Hispanics and Latinos have made to our movement. Today's profile features Henry L. "Hank" Lacayo.
A longtime staple of labor, political and academic circles in California, Henry L. "Hank" Lacayo was a force from his beginnings in the labor movement in the 1950s all the way up to his passing in 2017. He was born in Los Angeles in 1931 but moved to Mexico when he was young. He returned to California for high school. Upon graduating, he joined the Air Force. After his military service ended, Lacayo went to work at North American Aviation (later Rockwell International) in 1953. Within a few years, he not only became involved in UAW Local 887, he quickly rose to a full-time employee of the local and served as editor of its newspaper.
UAW President Walter P. Reuther encouraged Lacayo to continue his labor activism, and in 1962, he was elected president of Local 887, a position he held for 10 years. He represented more than 30,000 working people at Rockwell, both as union president and chief national negotiator for UAW-Rockwell contracts. His hard work led to an assistant director position for the UAW Western Region, covering nine states, along with serving as the region's political director.
In 1974, he moved to Detroit to work at UAW's national headquarters. He served as an administrative assistant to three UAW presidents and was appointed national director of the political and legislative department and later national director of the public relations and publications departments. He retired from the UAW in 1986 but continued in public life.
He created H.L. & Associates, a consulting firm representing clients in labor and management, government, community relations, senior citizen advocacy and international affairs. He actively participated in the California State University Channel Islands (CSUCI) institute that bears his name, the Henry L. "Hank" Lacayo Institute for Workforce & Community Studies. He also advised presidential administrations, from John F. Kennedy to Barack Obama. He devoted time to civic duties, including strengthening the Ventura County Community Foundation and establishing the Destino Hispanic Legacy Fund that provides scholarships and other funding to the Latino community. Lacayo received an honorary doctorate from CSUCI and was inducted into the Pacific Coast Business Times Hall of Fame in 2012.
Check out this video tribute to Lacayo:
This post originally appeared on the AFL-CIO blog in 2018.
The Right to Vote Safely: 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.
National Hispanic Heritage Month Profiles: Henry L. 'Hank' Lacayo: "Throughout National Hispanic Heritage Month, the AFL-CIO will be profiling labor leaders and activists to spotlight the diverse contributions Hispanics and Latinos have made to our movement. Today's profile features Henry L. 'Hank' Lacayo."
FLOC Co-Hosts Black/Brown Unity Coalition Peace Rally: "On Saturday, members of the Farm Labor Organizing Committee (FLOC) co-hosted the Black/Brown Unity Coalition peace rally. At the end of 2017, the coalition came together and signed a historic code of conduct agreement with the Toledo Police Department that brought reform to the department and developed a community grievance mechanism."
ILA Secures Contractual Protections for Members Impacted by COVID-19: "Thousands of members of the Longshoremen (ILA) are set to benefit from an amendment to the union’s master contract with their employers at the United States Maritime Alliance Ltd. (USMX). ILA International President Harold Daggett told members in a letter sent last week that those covered under the union’s contract will not experience a loss of health care coverage because of any reduction in their 2020 work hours caused by COVID-19."
A Big Organizing Win in the South: Worker Wins: "Our latest roundup of worker wins begins with one of the largest hospital organizing victories in the South since 1975 and includes numerous examples of working people organizing, bargaining and mobilizing for a better life."
Texas AFL-CIO Fights for the Right to Vote Safely: "Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, an anti-worker politician, is making a last-minute attempt to suppress votes ahead of unexpectedly competitive elections in the Lone Star State. With a month left to vote, Abbott signed an executive order on Thursday limiting each county to only one drop-off site for those voters who wish to turn in their ballots early. Texas AFL-CIO President Rick Levy (TSEU/CWA) responded, calling it an attempt to suppress the right to vote."
National Hispanic Heritage Month Profiles: Esther López: "Throughout National Hispanic Heritage Month, the AFL-CIO will be profiling labor leaders and activists to spotlight the diverse contributions Hispanics and Latinos have contributed to our movement. Today's profile features Esther López."
Economy Gains 661,000 Jobs in September; Unemployment Declines to 7.9%: "The U.S. economy gained 661,000 jobs in September, and the unemployment rate declined to 7.9%, according to figures released Friday morning by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The improvements reflect the continued resumption of economic activity that previously was curtailed because of the COVID-19 pandemic."
MM&P Backs COVID-19 Relief Funding for Maritime Security Program: "Masters, Mates & Pilots (MM&P) thanked the House leadership and supports the new version of the HEROES Act, introduced in Congress earlier this week to provide COVID-19 relief. The legislative package includes emergency funding for the Maritime Security Program, which provides America’s military access to a variety of vessels, including privately owned U.S.-flag ships operated by members of MM&P and other U.S. maritime unions."
Poor People’s Campaign Marches on the Supreme Court: "The Rev. Dr. William J. Barber II, co-chair of the Poor People's Campaign: A National Call for Moral Revival, led 100 leaders of different faiths in a silent march from Capitol Hill to the Supreme Court to honor the lives of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Breonna Taylor, and to remind us all of the importance and urgency of voting. 'My brothers and sisters, I would rather not be here to render judgment on what’s going on. But I do know there comes a time when the men and women of God have to call it,' Barber explained."
Vote for Worker-Friendly Candidates: In the States Roundup: "It's time once again to take a look at the ways working people are making progress in the states."
UWUA Helps America’s Veterans Transition to Good Jobs: "The Utility Workers’ (UWUA’s) Power for America Training Trust Fund (P4A) announced last week it is the recipient of a $200,000 Lumina Foundation grant to help service members successfully transition into post-military careers."
Service + Solidarity Spotlight: FLOC Co-Hosts Black/Brown Unity Coalition Peace Rally
Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service + Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
On Saturday, members of the Farm Labor Organizing Committee (FLOC) co-hosted the Black/Brown Unity Coalition peace rally. At the end of 2017, the coalition came together and signed a historic code of conduct agreement with the Toledo Police Department that brought reform to the department and developed a community grievance mechanism. The rally served as a call to action for all members of the community to unite and join the Black/Brown Unity Coalition to implement this agreement citywide. FLOC President Baldemar Velasquez said: “The job of the citizenry and the democratic society is for the people to take control, to reform, to change and to bring some kind of reconciliation to the harmful things in our institutions. But it takes a united front of citizens, of residents, of human beings to compel institutions to change.”
CWA Exposes AT&T's Failures on Broadband and Good Jobs
New reports that expose how AT&T has left communities without access to next-generation fiber networks and eliminated good jobs received wide media and political attention this week.
Labor Unions Sue Federal Government to Protect Frontline Workers From COVID-19
CWA joined other labor unions and environmental groups to sue the federal government over its failure to provide adequate reusable respirators, N95 masks, gloves, and other personal protective equipment to essential workers.
CWAers Phonebank Together to Elect Biden!
With only a few weeks left until Election Day, more than 500 volunteers have made thousands of calls in the past couple of days alone to flip the Senate and to elect Biden-Harris!
Death on the Job: The Toll of Neglect, 2020
This week, the AFL-CIO released its yearly report on the state of safety and health protections for America's workers.
Trump’s Anti-Worker Labor Board
In his State of the Union address this year, President Trump declared that “our agenda is relentlessly pro-worker.” Despite this populist posturing, any sober assessment of Trump’s first term will show that it has been an all-out assault on labor.
Understaffed and Unsafe, Bay Area Hospital Workers Strike
![Big crowd of members in a hallway, many fists in air. Front row holds oversized photo signs with captions: "OVERFLOWING, UNSAFE SHARPS DISPOSAL: THIS IS WHAT UNDERFUNDING LOOKS LIKE." "BLO{***}ATER LEFT UNATTENDED FOR DAYS: THIS IS WHAT UNDERSTAFFING LOOKS LIKE." "PATIENTS DISCHARGED IN FILTHY CLOTHING."]](https://www.labornotes.org/sites/default/files/styles/blog_thumb/public/main/articles/Untitled%20design%20%283%29.png?itok=fKJujI_x)
UPDATE, October 9: Striking workers at Alameda Health System are https://labornotes.org/blogs/2020/10/east-bay-health-care-workers-strike-forces-county-disband-bosscelebrating a victory in the midst of their strike, as the Board of Supervisors suddenly announced they would disband the unelected Board of Trustees that has long mismanaged this public safety-net health care system.
Workers at eight campuses of the Alameda Health System (AHS) in California’s East Bay will begin a five-day strike on October 7.
Detroit Bus Drivers Strike over Violent Attacks
Detroit bus drivers, the first essential workers in the country to strike for safety during the pandemic, pulled a wildcat work stoppage again Friday, angry over escalating violence against drivers. Often the attacks are triggered, they said, by a driver's request that a passenger wear a mask.