AFL-CIO
Women’s History Month Profiles: Angela Sheehan
Women’s History Month Profiles: Angela Sheehan
For Women’s History Month, we’re taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women’s history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today’s profile is Angela Sheehan of the Heat and Frost Insulators (HFIU).
Angela Sheehan made history as the first female business agent in HFIU Local 34, breaking barriers and paving the way for women in leadership roles. As a true trailblazer, she has shown that dedication and passion for her work can drive real change within the industry. Her unwavering commitment to her job is evident in the way she consistently goes above and beyond, never needing to be asked to volunteer for challenges. Sheehan’s leadership and enthusiasm inspire others to follow in her footsteps, shaping a more inclusive and dynamic future.
Kenneth Quinnell
Mon, 03/24/2025 – 10:06
Tags:
Women’s History Month
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: WGAE Announces Voluntary Recognition of Staff Union by Courier
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: WGAE Announces Voluntary Recognition of Staff Union by Courier
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 Writers Guild of America East (WGAE) are pleased to announce that they have reached an agreement for the voluntary recognition of Courier’s staff union. The 50-member bargaining unit includes reporters, editors, designers and social media managers.“We are pleased that COURIER has opted to voluntarily recognize our union at this crucial time when media workers everywhere are fighting for stronger protections against layoffs and better pay,” said the Courier United Organizing Committee. “We look forward to negotiating a strong contract that empowers every worker at COURIER as we navigate the ongoing transformation of our industry.”
Kenneth Quinnell
Mon, 03/24/2025 – 09:49
Tags:
Organizing
Protect Our Kids: What Working People Are Doing This Week
Protect Our Kids: 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:ICYMI – Executive Director @avincentjr was recognized for his dedication to advocating for our members in @PoliticsNYnews 2025 Labor Power Players list. Check out the impressive list of labor leaders and advocates who made it this year. https://t.co/qzd9pbzl26 pic.twitter.com/VGlvvSRQTX— Actors’ Equity (@ActorsEquity) March 20, 2025AFGE:What was the only thing to improve TSA employee engagement and satisfaction on the job? Collective bargaining and the 30% pay raises our union won for TSOs. https://t.co/9BF39pS1dP— AFGE (@AFGENational) March 20, 2025AFSCME:We see these changes for what they are – a back door effort to undermine and cut Social Security.They’re making it significantly harder for disabled and rural Americans to access Social Security. We won’t stand for it. https://t.co/bYwrAMvY4s— AFSCME (@AFSCME) March 20, 2025Alliance for Retired Americans:Members in CT, MS, and FL are taking action to save Medicaid, support labor, and stop DOGE’s Social Security attacks. We will never stop fighting for older and working Americans! #SaveMedicaid pic.twitter.com/bOws3hSxvG— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) March 19, 2025Amalgamated Transit Union:Our Local 1573-Brampton, ON, members are united in their fight for a better contract. #ATUStrongerTogether https://t.co/ERIM3wl6m5 #1u #canlab @OFLabour #UnionStrong #Brampton— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) March 20, 2025American Federation of Teachers:#ProtectOurKids pic.twitter.com/62Hmp8xwoP— AFT (@AFTunion) March 20, 2025American Postal Workers Union:The Postal Service belongs to the people, not the billionaires. ✊ Join us on March 20 as we make our voices heard nationwide, “Hands Off Our Public Postal Service! – U.S. Mail is Not For Sale!” Find an event near you ➡️ : https://t.co/SoZlz9HBsK pic.twitter.com/K3rlj8gYst— The American Postal Workers Union – APWU (@APWUnational) March 12, 2025Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:HAPPENING NOW: @AFAUnitedMEC Flight Attendants and allies are hitting the picket line at nearly 20 airports around the world to tell United management to get concessions off the table and deliver the industry-leading Contract we’ve earned! London & Guam kicking it off! #1u pic.twitter.com/eDOl1y9vaw— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) March 19, 2025Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers:ON STRIKE 🪧 24 members of BCTGM Local 3G (Battle Creek, Mich.) who make Knappen Baking Flour in Augusta, Mich. Support them by sharing!#knappenmilling #knappenmillingstrike #ulpstrike #bctgmpower #onstrike pic.twitter.com/LKMTNh82iy— BCTGM International (@BCTGM) March 13, 2025Boilermakers:Here’s what L-83’s Jess Mendenhall has to say about her #Boilermaker brotherhood experience.Jess is the second woman to complete the MOST Project Management course. Read the full story here: https://t.co/6UTASl0E9i pic.twitter.com/TM7ksyXcrs— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) March 19, 2025Bricklayers:Reminder – The deadline to apply for the U.S. Bates Scholarship are coming up next month!Full details can be accessed here: https://t.co/ZMyclV4ujx or through the link in our bio!#BestHandsInTheBusiness #Apprenticeship #ItsBetterInAUnion pic.twitter.com/knnhLcEbUi— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) March 20, 2025Communications Workers of America:Work in the videogame industry and ready for a union? Learn more about United Videogame Workers-CWA (@vgworkers): https://t.co/z3hK1H2dXS pic.twitter.com/QlEpqwIt0E— CWA (@CWAUnion) March 19, 2025Department for Professional Employees:In uncertain times, a union provides professionals with stability, as they have a voice in workplace decisions and the support of their coworkers. Learn more about the benefits of joining together in union here: https://t.co/JoD99wOaoR pic.twitter.com/uKqCE9hiUX— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) March 14, 2025Electrical Workers:This #WomensHistoryMonth we honor #IBEW women who have made history. Sisters like @AFLCIO President @LizShuler pic.twitter.com/yvWFlnXwHr— IBEW (@IBEW) March 19, 2025Fire Fighters:🖥️🔥🏢 For #firefighters, the growing presence of data centers requires specialized training, lots of planning, and close cooperation with on-site security and engineering teams. Learn more ⬇️https://t.co/H8BrtyKwDa— International Association of Fire Fighters (@IAFFofficial) March 19, 2025Heat and Frost Insulators:Did you know the journal is now available on our website & in the app?📲As leaders of sustainable practices, we believe how we produce our quarterly journal should reflect our commitment to a greener tomorrow.Want to go paperless? Update your settings in your membership… pic.twitter.com/5z63O4NZz8— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) March 19, 2025International Labor Communications Association:MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: ILCA member organizations like @AFGENational are working hard to uplift the stories of their members!https://t.co/1fsIcD1omO— International Labor Communications Association (@ILCAonline) March 18, 2025Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:🎭 SAG-AFTRA STANDS STRONG FOR DIVERSITY & ACCESSIBILITY! 🎭As major studios quietly roll back their DEI commitments under pressure from the Trump administration, SAG-AFTRA’s national board just reaffirmed its commitment to equity, diversity, and accessibility. pic.twitter.com/Zy0USKifpA— LCLAA (@LCLAA) March 19, 2025Labor Heritage Foundation:On today’s Labor Radio Podcast Daily (7:15a on WPFW): American Steel playwright Alex Lin, on today’s Labor Heritage Power Hour; 40K UC employees Alex Lin quote@wpfwdc @AFLCIO #1u #UnionStrong #LaborRadioPod Proud founding member of the Labor Radio Podcast Network pic.twitter.com/ngqB6eYFG2— Labor Heritage (@LaborHeritage1) March 20, 2025Laborers:#TBT — 121+ years of fighting, organizing, and WINNING! From job site safety to fair wages, union and non-union—we, #LIUNA stand up for ALL workers. When our backs are against the wall, Laborers don’t back down—we FIGHT and we WIN! #WeFightWeWin #ORGANIZE & #FeelThePower… pic.twitter.com/rekaBCYMMI— LIUNA (@LIUNA) March 20, 2025Maritime Trades Department:https://t.co/173YlFsyPTMTD Backs New Pro-Maritime Legislation— Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO (@Maritime_Trades) March 12, 2025Metal Trades Department:Rumor has it Trump to Pick Union-Busting Attorney for Key Labor Law Position. Crystal Carey became a partner last year at Morgan Lewis, which has been one of the most powerful management-side law firms in the country since the 1950s. https://t.co/xn90hDlvHe— Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) March 17, 2025Mine Workers:”The UMWA represents hundreds of West Virginia state employees, and we are proud to do so. We believe they deserve the same rights and respect on the job that any other worker anywhere has a right to expect…” – Cecil E. Robertshttps://t.co/R90PlU9QRO— United Mine Workers (@MineWorkers) March 18, 2025Musical Artists:AGMA Ratifies 3-Year Agreement with Cincinnati Opera: https://t.co/EkC4wcwIk0 pic.twitter.com/82OKKsEmVg— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) March 13, 2025National Air Traffic Controllers Association:President Nick Daniels served on a panel at the @NBAA Joint Board of Directors and Advisory Council meeting w/ panelists @AirlinesDotOrg SVP Sharon Pinkerton and former @FAANews Acting Administrator Billy Nolanhttps://t.co/3mTMO4fcPI pic.twitter.com/gtL4tvR7ry— NATCA (@NATCA) March 20, 2025National Association of Letter Carriers:On March 23, we’re putting this fight on the MAP! Join letter carriers across the nation as we #fightlikehell for the universal service Americans rely on. 📢 We’re delivering our message, loud & clear: #HELLNO to dismantling USPS!Find your local rally ➡️… pic.twitter.com/nYQvUjxCgA— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) March 11, 2025National Domestic Workers Alliance:Sharon, an NDWA member and Medicaid recipient in North Carolina, shares how Medicaid cuts would impact her family and community:”We need [Medicaid] to send our families, our loved ones, to the doctor—because no one can afford a doctor bill.”Watch: pic.twitter.com/csLSz9rYwx— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) March 19, 2025National Nurses United:RNs at VA facilities across the country send a clear message to our trans patients in response to attacks on their care: You will not be erased and we will continue to fight for you. https://t.co/VX3rrYsisp— NationalNursesUnited (@NationalNurses) March 20, 2025NFL Players Association:This past week, members got down to business at our annual Board of Player Representatives meeting to shape the future of our union while soaking up paradise. Here’s to leadership, building on our gains and solidarity! 🌴 pic.twitter.com/L5hOr4M5oI— NFLPA (@NFLPA) March 19, 2025North America’s Building Trades Unions:“Girl jobs” and “boy jobs”? Nah, just union jobs. These young women are gearing up to build the future.https://t.co/HOHR3EJ0ot— The Building Trades (@NABTU) March 20, 2025Office and Professional Employees:A critical care transport nurse at Kapi’olani Medical Center for Women and Children, 32-year union member Rose Agas-Yuu has committed her career to her patients. As president of HNA/OPEIU Local 50, she works every day to better the lives of nurses and patients across Hawai’i. pic.twitter.com/fhuKeP49Id— OPEIU | #UnionStrong (@OPEIU) March 17, 2025Painters and Allied Trades:The fight for workers’ rights has always been about more than just wages—it’s about our fundamental right to speak out and organize for a better future. Let’s continue to stand strong, speak up, and protect the rights that make our democracy stronger. pic.twitter.com/aVYajNr705— IUPAT (@GoIUPAT) March 19, 2025Professional Aviation Safety Specialists:.@PASSprezdc on probationary workers reinstated: “Although termination emails indicated they were being let go for performance reasons, we learned from supervisors this could not be further from the truth.” Let them continue their service to flying public. https://t.co/rAvUtTery3— PASS (@PASSNational) March 17, 2025Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:Hey @RWDSU members: the RWDSU Record has officially gone digital! Stay up to date on news from around the union!Check out the first edition that hit inboxes this morning: https://t.co/tMPfKOIA0SSubscribe to ensure you receive the next edition: https://t.co/pH9Q6jLAHF pic.twitter.com/FCRKvTrxjY— RWDSU (@RWDSU) March 20, 2025Roofers and Waterproofers:As temperatures rise and roofing projects pick up, it’s crucial to stay ahead of seasonal safety risks. Spring weather can be unpredictable. Now’s the time to double-check your gear.✅ Inspect your harness.✅ Check your ladder.#UnionRoofers#RoofingSafety#RoofersUnion pic.twitter.com/PmAiJggZTk— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) March 19, 2025SAG-AFTRA:On this episode of the SAG-AFTRA podcast, check out a conversation between labor leaders where they explore what unions are doing about A.I., from crucial provisions to ethical A.I. frameworks. Listen now! https://t.co/cjoqTYJBba pic.twitter.com/SxB54p1qKq— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) March 20, 2025Service Employees International Union (SEIU):Yolanda, a special ed assistant, is on the frontlines of Trump’s attack on public education. His latest move to eliminate the Department of Education threatens her job & the students she supports—along with school aides, bus drivers, custodians & educators who keep our schools… pic.twitter.com/rTiCULim8A— SEIU (@SEIU) March 20, 2025The NewsGuild-CWA:NEW: Trump’s cuts to the U.S. Agency for Global Media threaten press freedom worldwide.Journalists at Radio Free Asia are speaking out—these cuts gut independent reporting where it’s needed most.https://t.co/ej0Eu658Cs— The NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) March 18, 2025Theatrical Stage Employees:Today’s #WomensHistoryMonth spotlight is Cat Hutchinson! An IATSE member for 17 years & Local B-192’s Secretary/Treasurer for nearly 4, Cat says being in the union has shaped her as a working mom—showing her daughter the power of a forward-facing labor movement! Cat, you rock! pic.twitter.com/xTU25f79LK— IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) March 18, 2025Transport Workers Union:. @TWULocal100 showing TWU’s 💪🏾💪 in Albany, #NY. President John “We will take no crap from management” Chiarello, and more than 2,000 members of #AmericasFightbackUnion, are promoting L100’s legislative agenda in the state capital. @TwuSamuelsen pic.twitter.com/9gadtOEqhP— TWU (@transportworker) March 19, 2025Transportation Trades Department:We salute the gains that Amtrak has made under its current leadership, including record ridership in 2024.We remain committed to working with the next leader to build on this progress and support a 21st century passenger rail network that connects communities across America. https://t.co/BJF2DknXHu— TTD | America’s Transportation Unions (@TTDAFLCIO) March 19, 2025UAW:”One, two, three, four — no temps in the door!” Cummins has never had temporary workers at its OshKosh facility, but that’s exactly what the company is pushing for now in hopes of dividing the workforce. Local 291 members aren’t falling for it! pic.twitter.com/BTLCxB98Nz— UAW (@UAW) March 20, 2025Union Veterans Council:The @unionveterans strongly opposes the dismantling of the Dept. of Education. Such actions are an affront to our democracy and threaten the educational opportunities of the most vulnerable among us, including minorities, those in poverty, and individuals with disabilities.— Union Veterans Council🪖✊ (@unionveterans) March 12, 2025UNITE HERE:Celebrating Women’s History Month ✊🏽✊🏻✊🏿 Karlene Daynes, Local 261—”For me, being a woman in this labor movement means not being silenced and raising your voice for power and equality for all women.” pic.twitter.com/Y2Dnoq3MqP— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) March 19, 2025United Food and Commercial Workers:UFCW stands with postal workers & members of the community nationwide as we fight against the threat of an illegal & hostile takeover of the USPS.‼️Events are happening all over the country tomorrow, March 20.‼️Visit https://t.co/sVbvqVYfMC to find an event near you! pic.twitter.com/DNwbuIyx3r— UFCW (@UFCW) March 19, 2025United Steelworkers:DYK? Siblings at Local 5429 in Olean, N.Y. are the skilled hands behind the high-quality @cutcocutlery found in kitchens across the country. These union-made blades aren’t just sharp—they’re built to last a lifetime. Strong, reliable, and crafted with care by union members. pic.twitter.com/VBtjLgNcFg— United Steelworkers #EverybodysUnion (@steelworkers) March 20, 2025Utility Workers:🎒Students are eligible for entry into the UWUA Scholarship Program during the scholarship year that coincides with their graduation from high school. 2025 grads can apply today! https://t.co/URsD5SYgfD pic.twitter.com/Oxux6sz7lm— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) March 20, 2025Writers Guild of America East:Welcome to the WGAE, @CourierNewsroom! The 50-member bargaining unit, which includes reporters, editors, designers, and social media managers represents the core creative and editorial staff who contribute to COURIER’s work and mission. pic.twitter.com/ACRS5NJsoV— Writers Guild of America East (@WGAEast) March 20, 2025
Kenneth Quinnell
Thu, 03/20/2025 – 10:05
Women’s History Month Profiles: Maxine Lachnite-Pelker
Women’s History Month Profiles: Maxine Lachnite-Pelker
For Women’s History Month, we’re taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women’s history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today’s profile is Maxine Lachnite-Pelker of the Heat and Frost Insulators (HFIU).
Maxine Lachnite-Pelker began her insulator career in 1988, working first as a helper and then starting her apprenticeship in early 1989. She worked hard for many years as an insulator and a mother, retiring in September 2021. She is now a project engineer with a signatory insulating contractor. Lachnite-Pelker is a trailblazer in her industry and an inspiration to all women in her local, showing what can be accomplished by working hard and working together.
Kenneth Quinnell
Thu, 03/20/2025 – 08:41
Tags:
Women’s History Month
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Labor Leaders File Ballot Proposal That Would Make Colorado a Just-Cause Employment State
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Labor Leaders File Ballot Proposal That Would Make Colorado a Just-Cause Employment State
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.
Leaders at the Colorado AFL-CIO and Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 105 have proposed a ballot measure that would make Colorado the second state in the country to have just-cause employment.In 49 U.S. states, employers can fire a worker at any point, for any reason (or no reason at all). Initiative 43 would prohibit companies with more than eight staff from terminating or suspending a worker without performance reason—including things like repeated policy violations and gross insubordination. If the measure makes it on to the 2026 ballot and Colorado voters pass it, workers also would be able to sue for wrongful dismissal and employers could be required to reinstate workers, pay them back pay and cover the fees incurred by workers’ attorneys.“Colorado workers should expect common-sense workplace protections that prevent them from being unfairly fired,” said Dennis Dougherty, executive director of the Colorado AFL-CIO. “Bad-faith employers arbitrarily fire workers to undermine worker rights, derail union organizing and take in record profits.”
Kenneth Quinnell
Thu, 03/20/2025 – 08:39
Worker Wins: A Long, Hard-Fought Victory
Worker Wins: A Long, Hard-Fought Victory
Our latest roundup of worker wins includes numerous examples of working people organizing, bargaining and mobilizing for a better life.
San Joaquin County Nurses Ratify New Contract: Members of the California Nurses Association, an affiliate of National Nurses United (NNU), who work for the San Joaquin County health system voted overwhelmingly last week to ratify a new three-year contract. Registered nurses (RNs) secured this victory after going on a one-day unfair labor practice strike earlier this year and issuing another notice of a work stoppage that was set to begin March 9. Highlights of the deal include improved safety provisions, stronger nondiscrimination language and competitive wage increases. “This has been a long, hard-fought victory for San Joaquin County nurses,” said Kelly Mertz, an RN in the trauma department, in an NNU press release. “With this contract, San Joaquin County can be a competitive health care employer—meaning it can recruit and retain experienced nurses and avoid staffing crises. Our collective union power, our solidarity, and our commitment to each other and to patient safety brought this monumental contract to reality. We have once again proven that when nurses stand up and fight for what is right, we win.”SAG-AFTRA Reaffirms Commitment to DEI and Accessibility: In the wake of studios rolling back equity pledges under the Trump administration, SAG-AFTRA’s national board passed a resolution this weekend acknowledging the vital role that diversity and accessibility plays in the entertainment industry and reaffirmed the union’s commitment to these principles. In recent weeks, major studios have silently scrubbed their websites of DEI commitments and dropped commitments to equitable hiring and promotion practices as the White House rails against these initiatives in both the federal and private sector. SAG-AFTRA pushed back against this trend and highlighted the union’s historic commitments to the authentic portrayal of the “American Scene,” which references a contract clause that affirmed a nondiscrimination policy across productions. “For decades, SAG-AFTRA has advocated for equal employment opportunity within the entertainment and media industry, including meaningful representation of historically underrepresented communities and holding employers accountable to their commitments,” said SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher and SAG-AFTRA National Executive Director Duncan Crabtree-Ireland in a joint announcement. “That advocacy continues unabated, and is as important now as it has ever been. We will be engaging directly with employers to reaffirm their obligations under the various SAG-AFTRA contracts and that they remain in full compliance with those commitments.”Federal Court Orders Reinstatement of Fired Probationary Federal Employees: On Thursday, a U.S. District Court judge ordered the immediate reinstatement of fired probationary workers at the Departments of Veterans Affairs, Agriculture, the Interior, Energy, Defense and the Treasury and mandated that these agencies must immediately cease termination of probationary staff. Additionally, the judge also barred the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) from giving any guidance to federal agencies on which employees should be terminated. The plaintiffs in this case include AFGE, AFSCME, the United Nurses Associations of California/Union of Health Care Professionals, the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA-CWA) and multiple advocacy groups. “AFGE is pleased with Judge [William H.] Alsup’s order to immediately reinstate tens of thousands of probationary federal employees who were illegally fired from their jobs by an administration hell-bent on crippling federal agencies and their work on behalf of the American public,” said Everett Kelley, national president of AFGE, in a press release. “We are grateful for these employees and the critical work they do, and AFGE will keep fighting until all federal employees who were unjustly and illegally fired are given their jobs back.” “Public service workers are the backbone of our communities in every way,” said AFSCME President Lee Saunders in a press release. “Today, we are proud to celebrate the court’s decision which orders that fired federal employees must be reinstated and reinforces they cannot be fired without reason.”UFCW Members Ratify Utah’s First Cannabis Union Contract: United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 99 members who work at Utah-based dispensary WholesomeCo made history last week when they ratified their contract, becoming the state’s first cannabis industry workers to do so. Workers first organized with UFCW in November 2023 as part of the union’s larger national Cannabis Workers Rising campaign. The history-making deal includes guaranteed wage increases over the contract lifetime, company-provided insurance coverage, paid meal breaks, a ratification bonus and other huge wins. “With the ratification of this historic contract, WholesomeCo will continue to be a great place to work while helping raise the standard of living for employees industry-wide,” said Local 99 President Jim McLaughlin.IATSE Secures Tentative Agreement for Off-Broadway Workers: After a two-month strike, the Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) and the Atlantic Theater Company said Monday that they had reached a tentative agreement (TA) covering production workers. The bargaining unit spans nearly 100 workers at the off-Broadway nonprofit theater who will soon vote on whether to accept the TA terms. Stage crew handle vital roles for performances at the New York City venue like audio, videography, hair and makeup, costuming, props, carpentry and lighting. “The proposed agreement includes significant compensation increases including comprehensive benefits that both parties believe reflect the essential contributions of the production crew to Atlantic Theater Company’s success,” said IATSE in a press release. “Ultimately, after extensive discussions and dialogue, the Atlantic Theater Company is poised to become the first not-for-profit theater company producing solely Off-Broadway in history to have a union agreement covering production classifications.”
Kenneth Quinnell
Wed, 03/19/2025 – 12:09
Tags:
Organizing
Women’s History Month Profiles: Rachelle Martin
Women’s History Month Profiles: Rachelle Martin
For Women’s History Month, we’re taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women’s history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today’s profile is Rachelle Martin of AFSCME.
Rachelle Martin does so much it’s hard to know where to begin. She’s the single mother of two daughters, the co-chief steward at the Washington State Department of Health, a Washington Federation of State Employees executive board member, as well as the president of a fiscal sponsorship nonprofit, all while attending graduate school for her master’s degree in public administration. Her work as the first woman president of the Thurston-Lewis-Mason Central Labor Council is truly incredible.
Kenneth Quinnell
Wed, 03/19/2025 – 10:00
Tags:
Women’s History Month
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Video Game Workers Launch Industrywide Union with CWA
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Video Game Workers Launch Industrywide Union with CWA
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.
In an historic development, workers across the United States and Canada are launching United Videogame Workers-CWA Local 9433 (UVW-CWA), a direct-join, industrywide video game union with the Communications Workers of America (CWA) in partnership with the American Federation of Musicians (AFM). UVW-CWA builds off of mobilization following the Game Developers Conference in 2018, which was a launching pad for the start of Game Workers Unite, an international grassroots organization dedicated to labor organizing the video game industry. The launch of UVW-CWA also coincides with the fifth anniversary of CODE-CWA, which has helped more than 6,500 tech and video game workers organize to join the union since 2020. “The creation of this union was not done in isolation; it’s a cumulative effort by the thousands of video game workers who have been fighting for years to redefine what it means to stand together and reclaim power in one of the largest and highest-grossing industries on the globe,” said Tom Smith, CWA’s senior director of organizing. “These workers are taking a bold stand, joining together to build power for the workers behind the games we all know and love.”“Our mission is to take back our lives, our labor, and our passion from those who treat us like replaceable cogs; to empower our fellow workers; to link up arms with the laid off, with the freelancer, with the disillusioned contractor, with the disenfranchised and the marginalized, with the workers laboring invisibly to keep this industry afloat,” reads UVW-CWA’s mission statement. “We are going to create a game industry that works for us, one that nourishes its talent and invests in its future, rather than constantly seeking short-term profits. We are the ones that make the games, so we must be the ones that set the terms of how we work.”
Kenneth Quinnell
Wed, 03/19/2025 – 09:50
Defend the Public Postal Service: In the States Roundup
Defend the Public Postal Service: In the States Roundup
It’s time once again to take a look at the ways working people are making progress in the states. Click on any of the links to follow the state federations on X.
Alaska AFL-CIO:BREAKING: The Alaska House just voted to pass HB 69, which would increase the BSA by $1,000. This is a huge win for Alaska’s working families. #akleg #RaiseTheAKBSA pic.twitter.com/EIHvA3F6S1— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) March 12, 2025Arizona AFL-CIO:Today Union members joined Veterans at the Tucson VA Hospital rallying against VA employee layoffs 💪 Currently, over 2,400 VA workers have already been laid off, with an alarming plan to eliminate an additional 80,000 jobs. @AFGENational pic.twitter.com/Ss4Fv7bNHT— Arizona AFL-CIO (@ArizonaAFLCIO) March 15, 2025California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:CA @AsmSadeElhawary introduced AB 1331 (sponsored by @CaliforniaLabor ) – which bans California employers from using invasive surveillance technology to monitor their workers in private, off-duty areas, such as the break room, the bathroom or an employee’s personal vehicle. The… pic.twitter.com/wRRjiqAGl9— California Federation of Labor Unions (@CaliforniaLabor) March 18, 2025Colorado AFL-CIO:This Women’s History Month, we recognize the astonishing legacy of “Flaming” Milka Sablich, a true labor champion and leader in the 1927 coal miners strike right here in Colorado. l pic.twitter.com/JKyTJ2PWbh— Colorado AFL-CIO ✊ (@AFLCIOCO) March 15, 2025Connecticut AFL-CIO:Powerful labor town hall with Senators Murphy & Blumenthal. We are fortunate in CT to have two strong Senators fighting every day for working people. But make sure to continue reaching out & telling your stories about how federal cuts and freezes will impact working families. pic.twitter.com/vrXMg1nIX4— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) March 17, 2025Illinois AFL-CIO:NEXT WEEK: Chicago Climbing Gym workers at First Ascent have announced their intent to form a union. Join them for a night of climbing and solidarity on March 20, from 7-9 PM, to show management that the labor movement has their back. Sign up:https://t.co/tGkihAHdUR pic.twitter.com/w5qF2GErSe— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) March 15, 2025Maine AFL-CIO:Join postal workers & letter carriers for rallies to protest attempts to privatize the USPS!@APWUnational Bangor & Portland – Thurs, March 20, 2025@NALC_National Portland – Sun, March 23, 2025 https://t.co/R7zAMaL7JW— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) March 17, 2025Massachusetts AFL-CIO:Happy St. Patrick’s Day! We are remembering many leaders who built and grew the labor movement. Also thankful for the Massachusetts labor family, which was well represented at our union night fundraiser for the Steven A. Tolman Addiction Fund with the Dropkick Murphys on Friday. pic.twitter.com/LJFl5TLuvl— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) March 17, 2025Michigan State AFL-CIO:It’s time for lawmakers — Democrats and Republicans — to put politics aside and work together to get pro-worker bills that have already passed the legislature signed into law.Call on the MI House and Gov. Whitmer to do right by working families: https://t.co/HLCYuDtE8X pic.twitter.com/hSaEE1jy96— Michigan AFL-CIO ✊ (@MIAFLCIO) March 18, 2025Minnesota AFL-CIO:”Folks who claim to represent Minnesota businesses, like the @MN_Chamber, will try to tell you #PaidLeave is bad for business. As a thriving small employer and retailer, I can tell you that it is just the opposite.” #mnleg https://t.co/CBGmrqGBDK— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) March 17, 2025Missouri AFL-CIO:Seven different #Unions introduced students to career paths at a career pathway showcase last month, this is a great way to offer alternatives to a four-year college and encourage trade apprenticeships! https://t.co/2cMauV0GWp— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) March 16, 2025Nebraska State AFL-CIO:Thursday March 20th 3:30pm – 4:30pmStart at the southeast corner of 10th& Pacific St., and move to the northeast corner of 13th & Pacific St.Omaha pic.twitter.com/g1oGR27lEB— NE State AFL-CIO (@NEAFLCIO) March 13, 2025New York State AFL-CIO:On the latest episode of the #UnionStrong podcast we sit down with @NYSDOLCommish to discuss the key workforce elements in the Governor’s budget proposal, including worker protections, investments in childcare, workforce training initiatives, and more: https://t.co/cmbjDWkuwV— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) March 12, 2025North Carolina State AFL-CIO:We support @NC_Governor Josh Stein’s call for a pause on scheduled corporate and personal income tax cuts for millionaires and the wealthy few in order to invest in families and workers instead. #ncpol #1u pic.twitter.com/8KtoT2yEvA— NC State AFL-CIO (@ncstateaflcio.bsky.social) (@NCStateAFLCIO) March 13, 2025Oregon AFL-CIO:As an Oregon Department of Human Services worker with @seiu503, Holly Smith works with Oregonians at the lowest income levels in our state. SB 916 is for striking workers who are already in impossible positions. #ORPol #ORLeg #SB916 #OregonLabor #OregonAFLCIO pic.twitter.com/FplFtEp3f9— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) March 14, 2025’Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:Losing jobs and a weakened economy were not on the ballot. We voted for American workers, to protect good-paying union jobs, and build an economy that works for everyone, not just billionaires. #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/J2tPlqndmt— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) March 13, 2025Texas AFL-CIO:#HB1078 is a common-sense bill to help veterans get information on the benefits they’ve earned!USW (@steelworkers) Local 759 President Raj Penn & USW Local 13-2001 President Aquarius Johnson testified in support of the bill at the hearing ⬇️ #txlege pic.twitter.com/884QbvvHiX— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) March 17, 2025Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:These virtual sessions are free, and offered on March 20, April 30, and May 29 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Click the link below for more info ⬇️⬇️⬇️ https://t.co/DpPyOeklkn— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) March 18, 2025Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:Early voting for Wisconsin election starts Tuesday: How to vote for Supreme Court, other April races https://t.co/386hAvSDFe via @journalsentinel— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) March 17, 2025
Kenneth Quinnell
Tue, 03/18/2025 – 10:07
Women’s History Month Profiles: Sue Martin
Women’s History Month Profiles: Sue Martin
For Women’s History Month, we’re taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women’s history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today’s profile is Sue Martin of AFSCME.
Sue Martin is the first female president/secretary-treasurer of the Nebraska State AFL-CIO and a member of the Nebraska Association of Public Employees (NAPE)/AFSCME Local 61. She helped lead successful ballot initiatives to increase the minimum wage and institute paid sick leave in Nebraska. With her admirable dedication and passion for the state’s labor movement, Martin is highly regarded by Nebraska affiliates, elected officials and coalition partners.
Kenneth Quinnell
Tue, 03/18/2025 – 09:59
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Women’s History Month