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Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Sam Adams Boston Brewery Workers Vote to Join UFCW 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 the original Sam Adams Boston Brewery location in Jamaica Plain have gone public with their intent to join the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 328.Bartenders, beer ambassadors, cooks and key holders delivered a letter to management last week announcing their organizing effort. Staff cited concerns around job security, fair treatment, equality, the consistency of workplace policies, and wages and benefits.“If you’re talking to management over and over and over again and nothing’s changing, you’ve got to try something different,” said Zafi Smith, a senior beer ambassador. “Seeing my coworkers reinvigorated by this has been incredible.” Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 08/21/2026 - 11:19 Tags: OrganizingContinue reading→

Worker Wins: When Workers Stand United, They Win and Build a Stronger Future Our latest roundup of worker wins includes numerous examples of working people organizing, bargaining and mobilizing for a better life. Over 2,000 ShopRite Workers Approve New Contract: Meat, seafood and deli workers represented by United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 152 at more than 60 ShopRite supermarket locations have voted to ratify a new collective bargaining agreement. The new contract covers members across southern New Jersey, eastern Pennsylvania and Delaware. Highlights of the deal include higher starting rates for department managers and classified positions, annual wage increases that reward seniority, protections for employer-funded health benefits, expanded vacation and more. “This win belongs to our members. Their solidarity, strength, and determination allowed our negotiating committee to deliver a historic new contract. When workers are engaged and stand together, they win together,” said UFCW Local 152 President Daniel Ross. “Being on the union negotiating committee was my pleasure. I was honored to be tasked with the responsibility of speaking up for our members,” said shop steward and ShopRite employee Paul Vasapollo.AGMA and Dallas Black Dance Theatre Announce First Collective Bargaining Agreement: After more than two years of organizing and negotiating, American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA) members have announced the ratification of their first collective bargaining agreement with Dallas Black Dance Theatre (DBDT). Highlights of the deal include guaranteed minimum workweeks for the dancers and a minimum number of dancer positions each season, along with a seniority-based wage scale with improved minimum weekly salaries and built-in increases over the life of the contract. AGMA members also won protections for existing health insurance and retirement contribution benefits, stronger leave policies, the creation of a joint labor-management committee and more. “We understand the significance of this moment and the path that brought us here,” the dancers on the AGMA Negotiating Committee said in a press release. “We’re proud to have negotiated a first contract that provides meaningful protections for today’s dancers while strengthening the company for those who will come after us.” “A great deal happened to make this moment possible,” said Griff Braun, AGMA national organizing director. “We have never forgotten the former DBDT dancers who organized their workplace and stood together during an extraordinarily difficult chapter in the company’s history. Their efforts helped make this agreement possible. I have been equally inspired by the commitment, professionalism, and solidarity of the current DBDT dancers, who carried that work forward at the bargaining table. This first contract makes DBDT a safer, more supportive, and more sustainable workplace for artists today and for generations to come.”Ashland Specialty Chemicals Workers Ratify New Contract; Secure Raises, Other Benefits: The Texas City Metal Trades Council reached a new agreement with Ashland Specialty Chemicals, ending a 42-day unfair labor practice (ULP) strike. “Our Texas City Metal Trades Council members showed up for each other, every single day,” said Lewis Crawford, Operating Engineers (IUOE) Local 564 business agent and lead negotiator for the Texas City Metal Trades Council, AFL-CIO. "A strike is never easy. It asks everything of our members and their families, and this one asked more than most. We didn't win every fight at that table—but we won something no contract can put a price on: trust, unity, and a brotherhood forged on that picket line. We're not just going back to work. We're going back stronger, together, than the local that walked out 42 days ago." The new contract includes: a 9.25% wage increase over three years, 80 hours of paid incidental sick leave, 25 weeks of short-term disability leave, limited incidental craft work, increased vacation days, restored packager bidding rights and restored seniority for bidding on new positions. “We’re proud of the union members who put it all on the line to guarantee safety for themselves and their community,” said Texas AFL-CIO President Leonard Aguilar. “The labor movement joined together to support the Texas City Metal Trades Council. Their new contract sends a powerful message to working people across Texas: when workers stand united, they win and build a stronger future for themselves and their families.”Over a Thousand Natural Food Workers in Washington Ratify Strong Contracts: Grocery store workers at 16 PCC Community Markets in the greater Seattle area who are represented by United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 3000 have ratified powerful collective bargaining agreements. The new contracts covering staff in the grocery and meat departments include better wages and benefits, protections for members who may be targeted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), increased premiums for night shift roles, increased employer contribution to workers’ training fund, and more. “This victory didn’t come easily,” the PCC bargaining team said in their ratification announcement. “The upshot isn’t just an industry-leading contract we’re proud of. Before this campaign, PCC was in danger of sliding into the corporate void. By standing together, we helped slow that slide and reclaim our co-op for the workers and members who built this place. Our fight doesn't end here. This win provides a foundation we can use to keep building the democratic, worker-powered co-op that PCC members and workers deserve.”Houston Mayor Signs Executive Order Raising Wage for Airport Workers: Houston Mayor John Whitmire signed an executive order (EO) last week that will provide major wage increases for thousands of George Bush Intercontinental Airport, William P. Hobby Airport and Ellington Airport workers. Members of Service Employees International Union (SEIU) attended the signing of the EO, which compels air carriers, and concessions and airport contractors to immediately raise pay to $20 an hour. Over the next two years, the wage rate will continue to grow, reaching $23 an hour by January 2028. “Today we celebrate a big victory for airport workers who have worked long and hard for a raise,” said Elsa Flores, president of SEIU Texas. “This wage increase is the product of workers coming together as a union and having the unwavering support of pro-labor leaders like Mayor John Whitmire and Council Member Joaquin Martinez.”Times Square Hotel Workers Secure New Contracts: Members of the Hotel and Gaming Trades Council who work at the Fairfield by Marriott New York Manhattan Times Square and the Four Points by Sheraton Midtown have won their first union contract after 47 days on the picket line. Workers at the New York City hotels voted to form a union back in 2022. In the years spent negotiating their first contract, staff have faced numerous unfair labor practices from management, including bad-faith bargaining and discrimination against union supporters. Hotel and Gaming Trades Council members walked off the job at the end of June and encouraged guests to boycott the locations for nearly three weeks in order to secure this victory. “No one who works full time should have to choose between making rent and filling their prescription,” said New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani at a rally in support of the hospitality workers. “No one should spend their days straining to make tourists feel comfortable only to spend their nights in pain from back-breaking workloads.…But above all, no one should forget this very simple truth: New York City is a union town. And we will always stand union strong.” Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 08/20/2026 - 12:35 Tags: OrganizingContinue reading→

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Times Square Hotel Workers Secure New Contracts 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 the Hotel and Gaming Trades Council who work at the Fairfield by Marriott New York Manhattan Times Square and the Four Points by Sheraton Midtown have won their first union contract after 47 days on the picket line.Workers at the New York City hotels voted to form a union back in 2022. In the years spent negotiating their first contract, staff have faced numerous unfair labor practices from management, including bad-faith bargaining and discrimination against union supporters. Hotel and Gaming Trades Council members walked off the job at the end of June and encouraged guests to boycott the locations for nearly three weeks in order to secure this victory.“No one who works full time should have to choose between making rent and filling their prescription,” said New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani at a rally in support of the hospitality workers. “No one should spend their days straining to make tourists feel comfortable only to spend their nights in pain from back-breaking workloads.…But above all, no one should forget this very simple truth: New York City is a union town. And we will always stand union strong.” Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 08/20/2026 - 10:39Continue reading→

Democracy in Action: 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:The Independent Theatre Contract is still new, but it's already effecting change, making the union more efficient and smoothing the on-ramp for theatres to work with us. Learn about how Equity conceived of, built and rolled out this agreement. https://bit.ly/4fxxRw5[image or embed]— Actors' Equity Association (@actorsequity.bsky.social) August 17, 2026 at 11:57 AMAFSCME:In her final Convention keynote speech, Secretary-Treasurer Elissa McBride applauded the power and organizing prowess of AFSCME members and urged them to continue organizing to give more workers a voice on the job.https://t.co/UCxS3mNat3— AFSCME (@AFSCME) August 18, 2026Air Line Pilots Association:Safer skies shouldn't be a partisan choice. It's not ROTOR Act vs. ALERT Act — Congress should take the best of both and pass one strong aviation safety bill that closes critical gaps and honors the victims of PSA Flight 5342. pic.twitter.com/OdrpEN3WYW— Air Line Pilots Association (@ALPAPilots) August 18, 2026Alliance for Retired Americans:The Ohio Alliance hosted a town hall on Social Security's 91st anniversary. People of all ages showed up and they had a consistent message for Congress: Protect our earned benefits now and for generations to come! pic.twitter.com/KHvsl8bodZ— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) August 18, 2026Amalgamated Transit Union:Make sure you are staying informed about the latest news, campaigns, politics, and all the issues impacting our Union, our members, and our industry by subscribing to our e-newsletter, the ATU Dispatch today at https://t.co/2zRvpNDZrE pic.twitter.com/AfWxIsiCwI— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) August 19, 2026American Federation of Teachers:AFT is suing to block a rule limiting visas for international students. Discouraging students from studying here is a loss for students, campuses and our economy. @rweingarten.bsky.social said the govt is “breaking the law for its own political purposes... hurting Americans & American enterprise.”[image or embed]— AFT (@aft.org) August 19, 2026 at 11:20 AMAmerican Postal Workers Union:Democracy in Action: LIVE from the Convention Floor https://t.co/ogUj1DB5Hu— The American Postal Workers Union - APWU (@APWUnational) August 18, 2026Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:Flight Attendants save lives. We are aviation’s first responders and the last line of defense in aviation security. We are the first impression and the smile of aviation connecting the people of our nations.Happy National Aviation Day to Aviation’s First Responders! pic.twitter.com/wZMrftvVAd— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) August 19, 2026Boilermakers:Watch the story about Local 549 (Pittsburg, California) #Boilermakers, who saw the rusting fixtures of the SS Red Oak Victory museum and brought tradeswomen together to restore it: https://t.co/29qylyPyHE— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) August 18, 2026Bricklayers:Alex Jacobi, Director of our Member Assistance Program, shared a powerful reminder on the @ulanetwork: when someone is struggling, genuine care and sincerity matter more than having the right words. You do not need a perfect script to show up and make a difference.#UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/hdcPnAJPjf— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) August 18, 2026Communications Workers of America:Today, game workers and allies are taking action at Save Our Devs actions across the US and Canada to call out layoffs and corporate greed in the industry and to demand fair first contracts across Microsoft’s gaming studios. pic.twitter.com/ljqGaoPZgJ— CWA (@CWAUnion) August 18, 2026Electrical Workers:Google funding means more jobs, training for #IBEW members. https://t.co/61WPdj8uGe— IBEW (@IBEW) August 19, 2026Fire Fighters:🔥 WISCONSIN ORGANIZING VICTORY! 👏 Congrats to newly organized Lake Geneva, WI Local 5625 who received their official #IAFF Charter. Welcome to our great union!#UnionStrong@PFFW pic.twitter.com/vCav7cnMHL— International Association of Fire Fighters (@IAFFofficial) August 17, 2026International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers:“Your fight is America’s fight.”Gov. @JBPritzker joined us at the 2026 SMART Leadership Conference with a powerful reminder: From keeping workers and communities safe to building our nation’s hospitals, factories and housing, SMART members are making progress possible every day. pic.twitter.com/lP33WA8YnK— SMART Union (@smartunionworks) August 19, 2026International Union of Police Associations:pic.twitter.com/JQMhQluCEk— International Union Of Police Associations (@IUPA34233) August 19, 2026Laborers:105 years ago today, the 19th Amendment was ratified, expanding the right to VOTE for women across America. At the ballot box. On the job. In our unions. Our voice is our POWER! Use it. #power #laborhistory #vote pic.twitter.com/tVTDw58xOx— LIUNA (@LIUNA) August 18, 2026Machinists:Members of the @IAMW3Center’s Leadership I class toured our Headquarters today!Great way to cap off a week of learning and solidarity. 💪🏽⚙️ pic.twitter.com/TuR6C8iMMD— IAM Union (@IAM_Union) August 14, 2026Major League Baseball Players Association:In 2021, Trey Mancini’s peers selected him as AL Comeback Player in Players Choice Awards voting after he beat Stage 3 colon cancer to return to the Baltimore Orioles’ starting lineup. He retires with 129 career homers, a 2022 World Series ring, and a legion of friends and… pic.twitter.com/MMVtqNm993— MLBPA (@MLBPA) August 18, 2026Maritime Trades Department:SIU Statement on Second Extension of Waiver@SeafarersUnion https://t.co/o2bVTLjFH7— Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO (@Maritime_Trades) August 18, 2026National Air Traffic Controllers Association:NATCA President Nick Daniels, NATCA Executive President Mick Devine, Central Region Regional Vice President Aaron Merrick (NCE), and National Training Representative Jamaal Haltom (Las Vegas ATCT, LAS) led the largest meet and greet for FAA Academy students in OKC this year. pic.twitter.com/gTPTb5tziD— NATCA (@NATCA) August 18, 2026National Association of Letter Carriers:Being there for our communities is part of the job. Ogden, UT Branch 68 letter carrier Joseph Baty shows us the importance of paying attention and stepping up when it matters most. #MemberMonday pic.twitter.com/l2Qjfws6zz— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) August 17, 2026National Lacrosse League Players Association:The AFL-CIO Sports Council Stands in Solidarity with First Women’s College Sports Union As Members Fight for Official Recognition https://t.co/kPz4xCsl39— NLLPA (@NLLPA) August 14, 2026National Nurses United:Nursing means we fight for our patients, our profession, and each other. Organizing a union is how we protect that. Learn more here: https://t.co/YE0pATHX8v pic.twitter.com/wA3cW1IVsi— National Nurses United (@NationalNurses) August 17, 2026National Taxi Workers Alliance:Gig bosses are the new leaders in poverty wages. Uber, Lyft, DoorDash, Grubhub, and Instacart together now have more workers that rely on food stamps than any other company in America — more than Walmart, Amazon, and McDonalds — and they're among the top three whose workers…— NY Taxi Workers (@NYTWA) August 18, 2026NFL Players Association:This week's offseason #CMVP, @JEluemunor took his camp across the pond ✈️ The @giants offensive lineman brought his Main Show Football Camp back to the UK, giving a new generation of athletes the opportunity to learn and experience American football. The multi-day camp series… pic.twitter.com/Ve8k56vrdM— NFLPA (@NFLPA) August 15, 2026North America's Building Trades Unions:Congrats to our August 2026 Tradeswomen Hero Award winners!Keep up the great work💪 pic.twitter.com/IuBd2EZvRP— The Building Trades (@NABTU) August 18, 2026Painters and Allied Trades:Rest in peace to our brother from District Council 57, Kevin Johnston. Brother Johnston was a proud bridge painter and was considered by his co-workers to be the best of the best. He will be missed. pic.twitter.com/khaZGVYqiy— IUPAT (@GoIUPAT) August 19, 2026Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:Labor rights are human rights. Today we recognize those who fight daily for justice in their communities. An injury to one is an injury to all. 🌍 #WorldHumanitarian Day #SolidarityForever #HumanRights pic.twitter.com/QhD8lZd0Vk— RWDSU (@RWDSU) August 19, 2026SAG-AFTRA:A conversation between acclaimed recording artist #Finneas and SAG-AFTRA NED & Chief Negotiator @DuncanCI reveals that success might just be a result of an exceptional appetite for hard work. Read more in SAG-AFTRA magazine: https://t.co/kR9qC2fLZQ.Photo credit: Dennis Leupold pic.twitter.com/vI1G9jwuGl— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) August 19, 2026Service Employees International Union:Congrats to thousands of Minnesota nursing home workers who secured new hourly wage floors, despite fierce resistance, across four job categories: $22.50 for Certified Nursing Assistants, $23.50 for trained medication aides, $27 for licensed practical nurses, and $19 for all…— SEIU (@SEIU) August 19, 2026Solidarity Center:At the Solidarity Center's Global Labor Leadership Initiative, young worker leaders don't just gain the skills to build a stronger global labor movement, they also create a new union family 💙 pic.twitter.com/NmNfjXSwHp— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) August 19, 2026The NewsGuild-CWA:NEW: Today, we joined a lawsuit challenging the Department of Homeland Security’s decision to end a longstanding visa framework that will affect foreign journalists working in the U.S, along with international students and scholars. pic.twitter.com/kxvPSfywxS— The NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) August 18, 2026Transport Workers Union:The TWU Air Division is gathered together for a safety summit on National Aviation Day, with Flight Attendants, AMTs, Dispatchers, Ramp Workers and more uniting to discuss critical safety issues and how to make our workplaces safer! pic.twitter.com/pvzhuzGB3m— TWU (@transportworker) August 19, 2026Transportation Trades Department:In 1932, civil servants were up against wage cuts, furloughs & nonexistent benefits. 94 years ago on August 18th, these conditions inspired them to form @AFGENational. Despite the challenges, both old & new, AFGE has never stopped fighting for federal workers. Happy Founding Day! pic.twitter.com/0OJw0IjmQ2— TTD | America's Transportation Unions (@TTDAFLCIO) August 18, 2026UAW:"We have to reassert the sovereignty of people above profits in America."— UAW President Walter Reuther pic.twitter.com/SerfRlrse6— UAW (@UAW) August 17, 2026UNITE HERE:The math is clear and AJ Capital Partners and Graduate by Hilton Hotels are failing an open book test. Graduate by Hilton Hotels are themed around nearby colleges and universities, embracing the nearby community. BUT, as a community themed brand, they need improvement! pic.twitter.com/wRuU5FQD1H— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) August 18, 2026United Association of Union Plumbers and Pipefitters:📸 From the 41st General Convention #UASolidarity2026 pic.twitter.com/FkbMqtEdaE— United Association (@UAPipeTrades) August 19, 2026United Food and Commercial Workers:Oak Harbor Safeway pharmacy techs have officially voted to join @UFCW_3000!Despite an intimidation campaign from management, the pharmacy tech crew stood together for their right to bargain for the wages, benefits, & protections they know they deserve.https://t.co/IEBpoUtULO pic.twitter.com/Sa5icsgLKK— UFCW (@UFCW) August 17, 2026United Steelworkers:Yesterday, USW siblings, labor leaders and supporters came together at our headquarters to launch our campaign to elect pro-worker candidates and vote union strong. pic.twitter.com/6QXJrRo4Ef— United Steelworkers Union (@steelworkers) August 19, 2026Writers Guild of America East:The WGA is proud to represent workers across scripted Film/TV, nonfiction production, podcasts, online media, news, and more! Get updates directly from our members by following our union Starter Pack: go.bsky.app/HXsRu2w[image or embed]— Writers Guild of America East (@wgaeast.bsky.social) August 18, 2026 at 11:23 AM Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 08/19/2026 - 11:45Continue reading→

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Houston Mayor Signs Executive Order Raising Wage for Airport Workers 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. Houston Mayor John Whitmire signed an executive order (EO) last week that will provide major wage increases for thousands of George Bush Intercontinental Airport, William P. Hobby Airport and Ellington Airport workers.Members of Service Employees International Union (SEIU) attended the signing of the EO, which compels air carriers, and concessions and airport contractors to immediately raise pay to $20 an hour. Over the next two years, the wage rate will continue to grow, reaching $23 an hour by January 2028.“Today we celebrate a big victory for airport workers who have worked long and hard for a raise,” said Elsa Flores, president of SEIU Texas. “This wage increase is the product of workers coming together as a union and having the unwavering support of pro-labor leaders like Mayor John Whitmire and Council Member Joaquin Martinez.” Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 08/19/2026 - 10:03Continue reading→

The Fight for Dignity: 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. Alaska AFL-CIO:$10.6 TRILLION in corporate tax cuts since 2001.💰Nearly $2 trillion went straight to the richest 1%, while our schools and public services keep getting slashed. Is this economy working for you? https://t.co/pZgSmlc60z pic.twitter.com/HvFP8Qvois— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) August 17, 2026California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:"We are thankful for the leadership of Appropriations Committee Chairs Sabrina Cervantes and Buffy Wicks, Senate President Pro Tem Monique Limón, and Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas, for passing California Labor's full package of legislation creating first-in-the-nation guardrails…— California Federation of Labor Unions (@CaliforniaLabor) August 13, 2026Connecticut AFL-CIO:The Connecticut labor movement mourns the passing of former Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman, a champion of working people. pic.twitter.com/AZSIkVvPZX— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) August 12, 2026Florida AFL-CIO:📷IT'S ELECTION DAY!📷TODAY is the #FloridaPrimary! From partisan primaries on Governor to nonpartisan school board races, there is an opportunity today for EVERY Floridian to make their voice heard and push us towards a brighter Florida this November. Make your voice heard! pic.twitter.com/2Dd1YA6fjt— Florida AFL-CIO (@FLAFLCIO) August 18, 2026Illinois AFL-CIO:In Illinois, it gets HOT in the summer. Heat safety standards keep workers safe and job sites running smoothly. These protections should be strengthened, not rolled back.https://t.co/IWzyu2HRnT— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) August 8, 2026Michigan State AFL-CIO:⚒️ 113 years ago, the Copper Country changed forever. Anna "Big Annie" Clemenc stood tall to lead the fight for worker dignity. On August 22nd, we honor her legacy. Join us as we celebrate the hands that built the UP! RSVP for the event here: https://t.co/f8kkIP8Eft… pic.twitter.com/uftGbO9SkV— Michigan AFL-CIO ✊ (@MIAFLCIO) August 18, 2026Minnesota AFL-CIO:"The Trump administration continues to weaponize our federal government to intimidate our unions, our communities, and anyone who peacefully opposes their radical authoritarian agenda." https://t.co/bIqDa8AjIG— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) August 13, 2026Missouri AFL-CIO:Via the @STLLaborTribune : The Missouri Secretary of State is blocking the Respect Missouri Voters referendum from being on the ballot even though it was signed by more than 367,000 Missourians & would require ballot summaries to be unbiased, and accurate:https://t.co/idOIJIKqbJ— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) August 14, 2026Nevada State AFL-CIO:Day ✌🏼 of the 7️⃣0️⃣th Constitutional Convention is in the books! “The Nevada State AFL-CIO is bigger than any one problem, any one election, or any one disagreement,” said Executive Secretary-Treasurer Susie Martinez in her opening remarks. pic.twitter.com/qjeqcN5btQ— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) August 18, 2026New Hampshire AFL-CIO:Tickets + Sponsorships are now on sale for the 2026 @NHAFLCIO #LaborDay Breakfast. Get your tickets today by following this link: https://t.co/8fA6YvkvXO#NHLabor #Solidarity #NHPolitics pic.twitter.com/dvKdk17gge— New Hampshire AFL-CIO (@NHAFLCIO) August 3, 2026New York State AFL-CIO:On the picket line today with our @NYHTC family who are fighting for a fair contract at Fairfield & Four Points Times Square! #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/zTXu1BWcbX— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) August 13, 2026North Carolina State AFL-CIO:PRESS RELEASE: North Carolina State AFL-CIO Applauds Gov. Stein’s Veto of House Bill 958Read the statement from President Braxton Winston on our website here: https://t.co/QewrAazYDG pic.twitter.com/O2iXQoZOIC— NC State AFL-CIO (@ncstateaflcio.bsky.social) (@NCStateAFLCIO) August 17, 2026Oregon Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO:Oregon Labor is proud to stand in solidarity with the women's basketball players at @OregonState and all of the courageous college athletes organizing to secure a real seat at the table! #Organize https://t.co/2lqB5U4ppa pic.twitter.com/JcZGxMPVOD— Oregon Labor Federation, AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) August 11, 2026Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:Building your union? Yeah, that looks good on you. ✊ pic.twitter.com/GxTrS6eVFH— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) August 11, 2026Texas AFL-CIO:In Texas, greedy CEOs are making BANK while we’re struggling to make ends meet.➡️ Average S&P 500 CEO pay in Texas: $3,385,868,612➡️ Median Texas worker pay: $48,620It’s time to vote #WorkersOverBillionaires! Check out the full @AFLCIO report: https://t.co/YagjoPukbR pic.twitter.com/nm9dT3N36y— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) August 14, 2026Virginia AFL-CIO:🎉RE-ELECTED! Congratulations to President Doris Crouse-Mays & Sec-Treasurer Jason Parker on their re-election to lead the VA AFL-CIO! Now, let’s get back to work building a stronger labor movement for VA! #1u #solidarity pic.twitter.com/bBFYj2xE2F— Virginia AFL-CIO (@Virginia_AFLCIO) August 14, 2026Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:🎮✊ SAVE OUR DEVS!Join game workers and allies in Redmond to stand with union video game workers facing layoffs at Microsoft. An injury to one is an injury to all!📅 Tuesday, Aug. 18 | 12–1PM📍 Microsoft Redmond Campus 15607 NE 40th St pic.twitter.com/nykz6joygX— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) August 14, 2026Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:Average pay of CEOs of S&P 500 companies rose to record $22.8 million following Elon Musk's nearly $1 trillion compensation, AFL-CIO findshttps://t.co/Pl1a0OHFDF— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) August 14, 2026 Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 08/18/2026 - 11:41Continue reading→

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Over a Thousand Natural Food Workers in Washington Ratify Strong Contracts 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. Grocery store workers at 16 PCC Community Markets in the greater Seattle area who are represented by United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 3000 have ratified powerful collective bargaining agreements.The new contracts covering staff in the grocery and meat departments include better wages and benefits, protections for members who may be targeted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), increased premiums for night shift roles, increased employer contribution to workers’ training fund, and more.“This victory didn’t come easily,” the PCC bargaining team said in their ratification announcement. “The upshot isn’t just an industry-leading contract we’re proud of. Before this campaign, PCC was in danger of sliding into the corporate void. By standing together, we helped slow that slide and reclaim our co-op for the workers and members who built this place. Our fight doesn't end here. This win provides a foundation we can use to keep building the democratic, worker-powered co-op that PCC members and workers deserve.” Kenneth Quinnell Tue, 08/18/2026 - 10:23Continue reading→

Get to Know AFL-CIO's Allied Groups: Labor Heritage Foundation This is the next post in our series that will take a deeper look at each of our allied groups. The series will run weekly until we’ve covered each of the departments. Next up is the Labor Heritage Foundation (LHF). Name of Organization: Labor Heritage FoundationMission: The LHF works to preserve, promote and strengthen the culture, history and arts of the American labor movement through education, media and creative expression. LHF maintains a network of activists, artists and leaders. They perform, speak, provide training and produce materials that are useful for the promotion of the history, culture and importance of the American labor movement.Current Leadership: Chris Garlock serves as executive director. Jennifer Schwartz serves as accounting officer. Patrick Dixon and Harold Phillips serve as producers.Current Campaigns/Policy Agenda: LHF produces the “Labor Heritage Power Hour” radio show/podcast and the “Labor History Today” podcast. Each year, LHF brings together labor artists and supporters at the Great Labor Arts Exchange and showcases labor-themed movies at the D.C. Labor FilmFest. The organization also presents the Joe Hill Award and the Solidarity Forever Award, as well as the virtual Labor Grammys and the Labor Oscars. LHF works to keep labor songs alive through its affiliation with the D.C. Labor Chorus and provides resources to working people looking for an in-depth understanding of labor history and culture through its Labor Landmarks Map, Labor History Database, Labor Chorus Database, Labor Film Database, Labor Music Database, Labor Quotes Database and playlist of protest songs.Learn More: Website, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Blue Sky Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 08/17/2026 - 14:19Continue reading→

Stronger and Better Together: 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. S&P 500 CEO Pay Jumps to Record as Musk-Inspired Compensation Plans Spread: “Musk's pay ‘changes the dynamic when other CEO compensation plans come up, boards use it as a reference,’ Fred Redmond, the AFL-CIO's secretary-treasurer, said in a telephone interview. Meanwhile, said Redmond, wages of employees are being held back by the rise of artificial intelligence and a National Labor Relations Board run by Republicans, whom labor leaders view as hostile to union organizing efforts. ‘As we talk to our members, they're pissed off over what's happening to them, and they feel as though they should be more vocal in terms of calling attention ‌to inequality,’ ⁠Redmond said. He noted union representation has hit the highest level in 16 years.”University of Chicago Press Union Wins Landslide Election: “93 votes in favor, 12 against: workers at The University of Chicago Press (UCP) voted by a landslide to unionize with the Chicago News Guild, Local 34071 of The NewsGuild-CWA. The election—with votes counted on July 8 and the results officially certified by the National Labor Relations Board on July 16—marks another win for labor organizing in Chicago cultural institutions and in the publishing industry nationwide. ‘We were feeling confident going into it, but it’s really great to have that level of support and affirmation for our union,’ said Meredith Nini, senior promotions manager at the press and UCP Workers Guild member.”Cooper-Siegel Community Library Workers Unionize with Help from USW: “Workers at the Cooper-Siegel Community Library in Fox Chapel and its Sharpsburg branch voted to unionize with the United Steelworkers union last month. A vote took place July 29 with 16 out of 21 eligible voters participating, according to National Labor Relations Board records. The vote was 13-3 in favor of unionizing. Part-time library services assistant Cameron Smith was part of the organizing committee. ‘We’re excited to see what comes next and work with management,’ Smith said.”High School Grads Gain Valuable Skills in IAM CREST Workshops: “Thirty-eight students enrolled in the International Association of Machinists Union District 15 Corporation for Re-Employment and Safety Training (IAM CREST) attended financial education workshops on ‘How to Avoid Scams, Frauds and Identity Theft’ and ‘Basic Banking.’ The workshops were sponsored by Communities First Initiative (CFI) and Santander Bank at IAM District 15 in Lyndhurst. This is one of many financial education presentations that CFI has conducted throughout the state as a result of the huge increase in the number of people who have experienced scams, frauds and identity theft.”Interest in Union Membership Up Across Nation: “Liz Shuler, president of the AFL-CIO, who represents some 15 million workers, said tripling union membership is not a pipe dream. More than one in three private-sector workers belonged to a union in the 1950s. ‘Back in the 1950s when, frankly, our wages were actually growing along with the economy and when economic growth meant that all of us won, not just the billionaires,’ Shuler contended.”TC Phil Musicians Vote to Unionize: “The musicians of the Traverse City Philharmonic have voted ‘overwhelmingly’ to unionize, according to a Tuesday announcement. They will join the American Federation of Musicians (AFM), becoming union members of the AFM Local 56. The organizing effort ‘began when TC Phil violinist Kaylee Erlewein contacted AFM Local 56 in April 2026 regarding concerns about the orchestra’s operations,’ the release states. ‘Over the next four months, a musician-led organizing committee—supported by the AFM’s Organizing Department and Local 56—conducted one-on-one conversations with their TC Phil colleagues to discuss these concerns and the possibility of union representation.’”IAFF President Edward Kelly Outlines Firefighter Safety, Cancer Benefits and Labor Priorities at 58th Convention: “IAFF General President Edward Kelly used his opening address at the union’s 58th Convention to set out priorities on firefighter safety, occupational cancer benefits, collective bargaining, staffing, public safety and the future of the fire service. Speaking during the Opening Ceremony in Arlington, Texas, Kelly said the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) would remain ‘all in’ on protecting members and their families across the United States and Canada. Kelly said the pledge was rooted in the dangers of the fire service and the union’s responsibility to reduce risks wherever possible.”About 40 Graduate by Hilton Berkeley Workers Unionize: “About 40 workers at the Graduate by Hilton Berkeley hotel voted to unionize in late July. Staff working as housekeepers, restaurant servers, bartenders, front desk agents and others notified owners of the Hilton-branded hotel in early July they intended to hold an election to join Unite Here Local 2, after filing a notice with the National Labor Relations Board to hold the legally protected vote.”5 Unsung Films that Dramatize America’s Rich Labor History: “The U.S. is in the midst of a new upsurge of union organizing. Is a Hollywood drama about angry Starbucks baristas or frustrated Amazon warehouse workers far behind? Hollywood studios and independent producers have long depicted the collective efforts of working people to improve their lives and gain a voice in their workplaces and the larger society.”Roxanne D. Brown: Want to Rebuild the Middle Class? Triple Union Membership: “My mom was a single parent. She raised my brother and me, paid every bill on time, and bought a house of her own, breaking into the middle class with hard work and a union job. She also showed me how to make my own way in the world, and now she’s preparing for a retirement she spent decades earning.”PNBC, Rainbow Push and AFL-CIO Join to Fight Voter Suppression: “A predominantly Black denomination, a faith-based civil rights group and the nation’s largest union have joined forces to fight systemic racism and voter suppression. ‘We decided we’re stronger and better together and so today we thought it would be appropriate to announce a prophetic partnership between AFL-CIO, Rainbow Push Coalition and the Progressive National Baptist Convention,’ newly installed PNBC President Keith W. Byrd Sr. said during the denomination’s 65th annual session last month. He was joined by AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Fred Redmond and Yusef Jackson, president of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition and son of the late Civil Rights champion Jesse Jackson.” Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 08/17/2026 - 13:01Continue reading→

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Ashland Specialty Chemicals Workers Ratify New Contract; Secure Raises, Other Benefits 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 Texas City Metal Trades Council reached a new agreement with Ashland Specialty Chemicals, ending a 42-day unfair labor practice (ULP) strike.“Our Texas City Metal Trades Council members showed up for each other, every single day,” said Lewis Crawford, Operating Engineers (IUOE) Local 564 business agent and lead negotiator for the Texas City Metal Trades Council, AFL-CIO. "A strike is never easy. It asks everything of our members and their families, and this one asked more than most. We didn't win every fight at that table—but we won something no contract can put a price on: trust, unity, and a brotherhood forged on that picket line. We're not just going back to work. We're going back stronger, together, than the local that walked out 42 days ago."The new contract includes: a 9.25% wage increase over three years, 80 hours of paid incidental sick leave, 25 weeks of short-term disability leave, limited incidental craft work, increased vacation days, restored packager bidding rights and restored seniority for bidding on new positions.“We’re proud of the union members who put it all on the line to guarantee safety for themselves and their community,” said Texas AFL-CIO President Leonard Aguilar. “The labor movement joined together to support the Texas City Metal Trades Council. Their new contract sends a powerful message to working people across Texas: when workers stand united, they win and build a stronger future for themselves and their families.” Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 08/17/2026 - 12:27Continue reading→

Service & Solidarity Spotlight: AGMA and Dallas Black Dance Theatre Announce First Collective Bargaining Agreement 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. After more than two years of organizing and negotiating, American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA) members have announced the ratification of their first collective bargaining agreement with Dallas Black Dance Theatre (DBDT).Highlights of the deal include guaranteed minimum workweeks for the dancers and a minimum number of dancer positions each season, along with a seniority-based wage scale with improved minimum weekly salaries and built-in increases over the life of the contract. AGMA members also won protections for existing health insurance and retirement contribution benefits, stronger leave policies, the creation of a joint labor-management committee and more.“We understand the significance of this moment and the path that brought us here,” the dancers on the AGMA Negotiating Committee said in a press release. “We’re proud to have negotiated a first contract that provides meaningful protections for today’s dancers while strengthening the company for those who will come after us.”“A great deal happened to make this moment possible,” said Griff Braun, AGMA national organizing director. “We have never forgotten the former DBDT dancers who organized their workplace and stood together during an extraordinarily difficult chapter in the company’s history. Their efforts helped make this agreement possible. I have been equally inspired by the commitment, professionalism, and solidarity of the current DBDT dancers, who carried that work forward at the bargaining table. This first contract makes DBDT a safer, more supportive, and more sustainable workplace for artists today and for generations to come.” Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 08/14/2026 - 10:16Continue reading→

12 Things You Need To Know from AFL-CIO's 2026 Executive Paywatch ReportContinue reading→

Worker Wins: Needing a Stronger Voice Our latest roundup of worker wins includes numerous examples of working people organizing, bargaining and mobilizing for a better life. CapMetro Workers Reach Strong Tentative Agreement, Averting Strike: Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 1091 members who work for CapMetro have reached a tentative agreement after months of negotiations, averting a potential work stoppage. Workers at the regional public transportation provider in Austin, Texas, are employed by subcontractor Keolis. In June, union members voted nearly unanimously to authorize a strike. Their unity and bravery have paid off in the form of a powerful tentative contract that would guarantee a 12% wage increase with full retroactive pay from Jan. 1, a contract signing bonus and more vacation. “Our members worked hard for this contract, and we believe it strikes the right balance between meeting their needs and maintaining the high standard of service that the residents of Austin deserve,” said ATU Local 1091 President and Business Agent Brent Payne.TC Philharmonic Musicians Vote to Join AFM: Traverse City Philharmonic musicians have overwhelmingly voted to join American Federation of Musicians (AFM) Local 56. The northern Michigan professional orchestra has entertained music lovers in the region for more than seven decades. Performers worked with AFM to build out a grassroots organizing campaign so they can negotiate a contract to address workplace concerns and give workers a fair say in the institution’s future. “The TC Phil has been my ‘home’ since age eleven, and it is one of the main reasons I became a professional violinist and teacher,” said violinist Kaylee Erlewein. “However, in recent years, decisions by the TC Phil management, discussions with my colleagues, and years of service on the Players’ Committee led me to believe that the musicians needed a stronger voice. The necessary next step was to join with the American Federation of Musicians. We look forward to working with AFM Local 56 to make the orchestra stronger than ever, for many years to come.”NYC Ferry Workers Unanimously Vote to Join Transport Workers Union: The New York City Ferry’s marine diesel technicians and welders have decisively voted to form a union with the Transport Workers Union (TWU). The 65 members of the bargaining unit work for Hornblower Group, a marine transport contractor, and they are ready to fight for a contract that ensures fair pay and stronger benefits. “We are growing our ranks at the New York City Ferry with this latest organizing victory, as technicians and welders can see the day-in-day-out fight we bring on all fronts and want to be a part of it,” said TWU International President John Samuelsen in a statement. “We will now begin work on a critical first contract to bring big gains for NYC Ferry workers, just like we have for decades with NYC Subways, trains, buses, planes, and bikes.”  “The highly skilled NYC Ferry workers are trusting in the industrial power of the TWU in New York to deliver a crucial first contract while showing up to fight for them on all fronts, no matter what,” said TWU Special Projects Coordinator Alejandro Arroyo in a press release. “Across New York City and New York State, the TWU is showing over and over again why we are America’s fightback union, organizing the unorganized and standing up for every worker against powerful interests.”Former Anaheim Marriott Staff Win Major Settlement: Last week, UNITE HERE Local 11 hosted a press conference to celebrate a landmark settlement for 29 former Anaheim Marriott workers after the California Labor Commissioner found that the hotel had violated state labor law. The $2.75 million payout resolves a citation revolving around the hotel’s failure to comply with the state’s right-to-recall requirements, which compel management to offer available jobs to eligible former employees who were laid off during the COVID-19 pandemic. Servers, cooks and room attendants filed complaints and bravely fought back against the Anaheim Marriott’s attempt to violate the 2021 law. “I want to be very clear with employers that if you break the law in California, we are going to hold you accountable,” California State Labor Commissioner Lilia Garcia-Brower said.ABC News Digital Staffers Join WGAE: The staff behind ABCNews.com and ABC News’ social media platforms are officially members of the Writers Guild of America East (WGAE), marking an important win for digital staff as the news organization continues to face scrutiny from the Trump administration. The new bargaining unit covers approximately 50 workers, including digital reporters, digital editors, digital video producers and social media producers. In a statement, the bargaining unit said, “The industry is changing at a rapid pace, and we want to help shape the version of ABC News that will emerge from this transition. We are excited to join hundreds of our ABC News Broadcast colleagues and thousands of our fellow Disney employees who are represented by unions.” “The WGAE has represented unionized workers at ABC News since the 1960s,” WGAE President Tom Fontana added. “We appreciate that management engaged in productive conversations for recognition, and we look forward to winning union protections for ABC News’ digital staff.”Years of Advocacy from SMART-TD and ATU Lead to Critical Bus Operator Safety Legislation: Following years of vocal advocacy by bus and transit members of the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers’ Transportation Division (SMART-TD) and the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU), lawmakers have now introduced the bipartisan Bus Operator Safety and Security Act. This legislation would require newly purchased, federally funded fixed-route buses—with a length of 30 feet or longer—to include protective barriers fully enclosing the operator’s workstation. The legislation is co-sponsored by Sens. Jack Reed (R.I.) and Josh Hawley (Mo.), and its House of Representatives companion bill was introduced by Reps. Shomari Figures (Ala.) and Jefferson Van Drew (N.J.). SMART-TD is hailing the tireless efforts of its Bus Department, National Legislative Department, and Bus and Transit Assault Prevention and Safety (BTAPS) Committee as key to helping this issue break through in the halls of Congress. “Not a day goes by that I don’t hear about one of our members being shot, stabbed, spit on, verbally abused, and more. Every day, at least 42 transit workers are assaulted on U.S. transit systems,” said ATU International President John Costa in a press release. “The Bus Operator Safety and Security Act invests in critical transit security measures, including an enclosed driver workstation, to better protect our transit workers, riders, and communities. Operator safety is about public safety.” Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 08/13/2026 - 11:24 Tags: OrganizingContinue reading→