AFL-CIO
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Maryland Dispensary Workers Ratify First Contract
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Maryland Dispensary Workers Ratify First Contract
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 400 members at The Apothecarium cannabis dispensary in Maryland unanimously voted to ratify their first collective bargaining agreement.The new agreement contains a number of wins, including guaranteed wage increases over the life of the contract, paid bereavement leave, a formal grievance procedure, mandated work-week schedule postings, severance pay and more.“It’s great to work for a company that listens and actively works with the union to hear our needs and try and come to the best possible solution that works for everyone,” said Samira Wilson, who was also part of the bargaining committee. “And a big thanks to our union for being there and checking in on us to make sure that we have everything we need.”“I congratulate our Apothecarium members on their first collective bargaining agreement,” said Local 400 President Mark Federici. “Their activism and solidarity earned them a contract that improves their lives and strengthens their security.”
Kenneth Quinnell
Mon, 07/13/2026 – 09:54
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Columbus Metropolitan Library Workers Form Union
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Columbus Metropolitan Library Workers Form Union
Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Ohio’s State Employment Relations Board confirmed on Tuesday that staff members at the Columbus Metropolitan Library (CML) have successfully voted to form a union with the Ohio Federation of Teachers.The bargaining unit covers roughly 600 librarians, customer services specialists, youth engagement specialists, materials services associates, drivers, sorters and other library workers. Under the name CML United, workers came together to address concerns around working conditions and the library’s reliance on poorly compensated part-time employees. Despite facing multiple delays and unfair labor practices by management, workers persevered and overwhelmingly won their election.“We stood together, across different branches and different job titles, because we know that CML is a stronger library system for our communities when workers have a voice,” said Nancy Gillespie, an information services specialist at CML’s Whitehall Branch. “We not only know what changes are needed to improve conditions for CML workers, we also know what our patrons need and expect from their libraries because we’re the ones who have direct, daily communication with them.”
Kenneth Quinnell
Fri, 07/10/2026 – 12:47
Tags:
Organizing
Worker Wins: Building A Stronger Future Together
Worker Wins: Building A Stronger Future Together
Our latest roundup of worker wins includes numerous examples of working people organizing, bargaining and mobilizing for a better life.
IAM Union Members Win First Contract at Federation of American Scientists: Federation of American Scientists (FAS) workers—who are represented by IAM District 4—have approved their first union contract. IAM Union members perform cutting-edge work in AI policy, nuclear weapons monitoring, wildfire management, climate science and other areas that are critical to FAS’ mission. Their newly ratified contract contains a number of major wins, including a formal grievance procedure, establishment of a Labor-Management Committee, expanded bereavement leave, increases to salary bands and more. “FAS employees made history when they formed their union, and now they have built on that victory by securing a strong first contract,” said IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan. “This agreement gives IAM District 4 members a real voice on the job and establishes a foundation for continued progress.” “This first contract reflects the dedication and unity of FAS members and their bargaining committee,” said District 4 Directing Business Representative Jay Wadleigh. “Even under challenging circumstances, they stayed focused on securing workplace protections, preserving key benefits, and building a stronger future together.”Nurses at HCA HealthONE Swedish Join NNU: Registered nurses (RNs) at HCA HealthONE Swedish in Englewood, Colorado, have voted to join the National Nurses Organizing Committee/National Nurses United (NNOC/NNU). This is the nurses’ second election after the National Labor Relations Board ruled that their employer, HCA Healthcare, illegally interfered with a previous union vote held in 2024. Now that RNs have successfully secured their NNOC/NNU representation, they’re ready to start bargaining for a contract that has the benefits and protections needed to address the high turnover rate. “This is a huge victory for the nurses at our hospital and across the HCA system nationwide,” said Christina Michas, RN in the general rehabilitation unit at Swedish. “We showed HCA that, even when they try to illegally interfere with our elections, nurses will hold them accountable and keep fighting until we win the union protections we need.”Workers at Bridgewater Interiors Ratify New Agreement: UAW Local 400 members in Warren, Michigan, who work at Bridgewater Interiors voted overwhelmingly to ratify a new collective bargaining agreement. These workers manufacture seats for vehicles like Ford F-150s and Stellantis Dodge Ram trucks. Members secured a number of major wins, including a top rate of $35 per hour by the end of the contract lifetime, a cap on increases to their health care costs, more time off and a $2,000 ratification bonus. “UAW Local 400 members stood united,” said UAW Region 1 Director LaShawn English. “They told the company ‘$35 by 2030’—and because they made their voices heard, they walk away with a contract that delivers on their demand.” “After voting down an initial deal by 95% and voting to authorize a strike, UAW Local 400 members sent a clear message to Bridgewater management: no contract, no seats,” said UAW Local 400 President Mark Hemphill. “And no seats mean no trucks for Ford and Stellantis—that’s power and leverage, and we put it to work.”San Francisco Public Press Workers Form Union: Newsroom workers at the San Francisco Public Press have secured voluntary recognition from management as new members of the Pacific Media Workers Guild, The NewsGuild-CWA Local 39521. A supermajority of staff at the nonprofit newsroom signed union authorization cards and a mission statement in support of the organizing effort. Now that they have officially been recognized, members are focused on negotiating a contract that ensures increased transparency, a stronger editorial voice, fair pay and protections, and a sustainable work-life balance. “So much of our reporting centers on recognizing the dignity and rights of people in our communities,” said Madison Alvarado, a reporter at the organization for nearly five years. “I believe a union will help further that mission a little closer to home.” “A union gives us the stability to do our job better,” said Zhe Wu, a community beat reporter. “Knowing we have each other’s backs, especially as we see increasing threats on immigration, allows me to focus on what matters.”NOAA Fisheries Workers Join IFPTE: Workers at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA’s) Fisheries Pacific Islands Regional Office in Hawaii have overwhelmingly voted to form a union with International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE) Local 8A. Staff at NOAA Fisheries are responsible for the stewardship of the country’s ocean resources and wildlife habitats. This victory is especially powerful in the midst of unprecedented attacks on federal worker union rights. “Local 8A congratulates the more than 200 federal employees at the Pacific Island Fisheries location for voting to join Local 8A. It is as important now more than ever that federal employees band together and strengthen not only our working conditions, but protect the vital work that we all perform on behalf of American taxpayers. We look forward to getting the bargaining process started,” said Local 8A President Nick Tolimieri.NABET-CWA Members Ratify Contract with ABC-TV: Members of NABET-CWA who work at ABC-TV have successfully ratified a new master agreement at multiple company network and TV station operations. The contract language covers broadcast technicians, newswriters, producers and desk assistants in New York City; Chicago; Washington, D.C.; Los Angeles and San Francisco. Highlights include the highest wage increases in a four-year contract in more than 30 years, guardrails around generative artificial intelligence and more. “NABET-CWA and the ABC network locals involved are proud of the many contractual enhancements we’ve achieved in negotiations with ABC-TV,” said NABET-CWA President Charlie Braico. “The upgrades to wages, benefits and travel provisions will directly improve the lives of our daily hire and full-time staff members significantly. Our union solidarity and determination have proven once again that when we stand strongly together, we win, for members and for workers across the board.”Philadelphia Hospitality Workers Unanimously Ratify Tentative Agreement, End Strike: After a powerful nine-day strike, members of UNITE HERE Local 274 have secured a new collective bargaining agreement with the Sheraton Philadelphia Downtown hotel. Hospitality workers walked off the job at the city’s largest union hotel as World Cup games started and during preparations for Fourth of July celebrations. The new deal includes wage increases to $30 per hour for nontipped employees by January 2028, a reduction in room attendants’ daily quota, an 18% banquet gratuity, pension plan improvements and more. “When we said we were fighting for $30 [per] hour at the beginning of this campaign, a lot of people told us we were asking for the impossible,” said Shafeek Anderson, a steward at the Sheraton. “With this victory, we have shown the whole industry that nothing is impossible when workers stick together.”PPPWU Members Vote to Affiliate with IAM Union: Members of the Printing Packaging & Production Workers Union of North America (PPPWU) have voted to affiliate with IAM Union, creating a powerful new partnership. IAM/PPPWU represents approximately 16,000 workers across the printing, packaging, paper converting, graphic communications and related manufacturing industries throughout North America. “This is a historic day for our union and our members,” said IAM/PPPWU International President Israel Castro. “After careful consideration and discussion across our union, our members have chosen a path that strengthens our future while protecting everything that makes the PPPWU unique. This affiliation gives our members access to additional resources, training, bargaining support and opportunities for growth while ensuring our union remains led by the members who built it. We are proud of our history and excited about what we can accomplish together with the IAM [Union].” “I want to congratulate President Castro, Secretary-Treasurer Santangelo, the General Board, district and local leaders and the membership on this historic vote,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “The IAM Union is proud to welcome these hardworking men and women into our union family. Together, we will continue growing our collective strength and ensuring workers have the resources and support they need to win.”Albertsons Grocery Store Workers Join UFCW: Ninety staff members at two Albertsons stores in New Mexico have voted to form a union with United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 1564. The Albuquerque Eubank Boulevard NE bargaining unit covers meat cutters, meat wrappers, butcher block clerks and deli clerks. Over at the Rio Rancho Ridgecrest Drive location, checking, stocking, receiving, produce, bakery, deli and e-commerce staff are included in their bargaining unit. “The success we are seeing with Albertsons is a result of successful contract negotiations with Albertsons in 2025, a strong and respected organizer in Sylvianna and union leadership committed to organizing and bargaining to increase leverage for Albertsons’ members in 2029,” said Greg Frazier, president of UFCW Local 1564.Mississippi Sawmill Workers Vote to Join USW: Workers at the Big River Forest Products lumber mill in Gloster, Mississippi, have voted to form a union with the United Steelworkers (USW). Approximately 140 operators, mechanics and other workers are now part of the new bargaining unit. “More and more workers across the South are doing what our new members at Big River elected to do—leverage the power of solidarity and collective action to build better lives,” said USW International President Roxanne D. Brown. “The entire community benefits from a union contract.” “Members in these industries collaborate across companies and borders to negotiate better contracts and safer workplaces,” said USW International Vice President Luis Mendoza, who oversees paper-related bargaining for the union. “We’re excited to welcome the workers at Big River, knowing they will both contribute to our mission and draw strength from their colleagues unionwide.”Gateway Film Center United Workers Ratify Contract: Members of AFSCME Local 281 who work at the Gateway Film Center in Columbus, Ohio, have unanimously voted to ratify their first union contract. The Gateway Film Center United (GFCU/Local 281) bargaining unit—which is part of AFSCME Ohio Council 8—first formed its union back in 2024. Highlights of the deal include more predictable scheduling, on-call pay, formal grievance procedures, work attire stipends and more. “This contract represents a huge win and delivers stability for our team that has been sorely needed,” said Ashby Daugherty, an admissions and membership services associate. “With systems in place to allow employees to grow—reasonable annual wage increases, a path for part-timers to build to full-time employment—along with improvements to scheduling and training, we’ve made the Gateway a better place for us to work. I’m very excited about what we’ve managed to build together.” Production Assistants Ratify Three Warner Bros. TV Union Contracts: Members of Production Assistants United, an affiliate of Laborers (LIUNA) Local 724, who work on three Warner Bros. shows have ratified their first union contracts. The staffers on “Abbott Elementary,” “Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage” and “All American” all unanimously approved their separate collective bargaining agreements. Highlights of the contracts include a minimum wage rate of $20 an hour for new hires, double pay for working holidays and establishment of a subcommittee to explore career advancement for production assistants. “You cannot run a production without production assistants,” Production Assistants United Director of Organizing Ethan Ravens said in a statement. “The idea that the workers holding productions together should have a union, a voice, health care and a pension is not radical. It is inevitable. These contracts prove the momentum is real, and it is only going to keep growing.” “The unanimous ratification of these agreements sends a powerful message: workers want a voice, and they want representation,” LIUNA Local 724 secretary-treasurer Alex Aguilar Jr. said in a statement. “The unity shown by production assistants demonstrates the strength of this movement and the power of workers standing together in solidarity.”Magic: The Gathering Arena Developers Vote to Join CWA: This week, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) confirmed that “Magic: The Gathering Arena” workers have won their union election to join the Communications Workers of America (CWA) in a landslide victory. Under the banner of United Wizards of the Coast-CWA (UWOTC-CWA), workers first filed for a vote in April and requested that management voluntarily recognize them. Members have cited concerns around lack of layoff protections, threats to remote work, generative artificial intelligence (AI) and heavy workloads as core motivators for organizing. “After months of planning, waiting and organizing, our dream is finally a reality; the votes have been counted, and our union of UWOTC-CWA has been officially elected,” the union said in a social media post. “From this day forward, we have a union….We stand on the shoulders of giants, and we can only hope that our victory in turn inspires others to start unionizing at their own workplaces. Change is possible when workers stand together!”IBEW Reaches Tentative Agreement to End PECO Strike: Members of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 614 reached a powerful new tentative agreement Monday night, ending their three-day strike against PECO. United in solidarity, linemen, gas technicians, mechanics, call center workers and back office workers stood shoulder to shoulder and won all of their major contract priorities at the electric company. “Tonight, we declare victory,” Larry Anastasi, the president and business manager of Local 614, said in a statement. “IBEW Local 614 is ending our strike with a historic win and a landmark contract. This is the beginning of a new era at PECO, one where greed does not go unchecked and the workers who make modern life possible get the respect and dignity we are owed.”WLRN Public Radio Staff Ratify First CBA: SAG-AFTRA members who work at WLRN, South Florida’s NPR station, have unanimously ratified their first collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Reporters, hosts, anchors and producers at the radio station and its digital properties first announced their intent to organize in 2024. And now, after months of negotiations with the South Florida Public Media Group, members have a new contract that ensures higher wages, clear standards for promotions, artificial intelligence (AI) guardrails and more. “We live in one of the most expensive markets in the country. Our first contract is a lifeline for us. It means that we can keep doing what we do with better pay, better work conditions and better benefits than we’ve ever had before,” said members of the bargaining committee in a statement. “At a time when public media and the journalism industry as a whole are under increasing pressure, it’s more important than ever to have a seat at the table. We’re much stronger with our contract in effect, and we can focus on the important work that South Florida relies on.”
Kenneth Quinnell
Thu, 07/09/2026 – 10:27
Tags:
Organizing
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: WLRN Public Radio Staff Ratify First CBA
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: WLRN Public Radio Staff Ratify First CBA
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.
SAG-AFTRA members who work at WLRN, South Florida’s NPR station, have unanimously ratified their first collective bargaining agreement (CBA).Reporters, hosts, anchors and producers at the radio station and its digital properties first announced their intent to organize in 2024. And now, after months of negotiations with the South Florida Public Media Group, members have a new contract that ensures higher wages, clear standards for promotions, artificial intelligence (AI) guardrails and more.”We live in one of the most expensive markets in the country. Our first contract is a lifeline for us. It means that we can keep doing what we do with better pay, better work conditions and better benefits than we’ve ever had before,” said members of the bargaining committee in a statement. “At a time when public media and the journalism industry as a whole are under increasing pressure, it’s more important than ever to have a seat at the table. We’re much stronger with our contract in effect, and we can focus on the important work that South Florida relies on.”
Kenneth Quinnell
Thu, 07/09/2026 – 10:16
Our Voice, Our Power: What Working People Are Doing This Week
Our Voice, Our Power: 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:Equity publishes member-written letters reflecting on the lives of their fellow members who have passed away. Fill out the member commemoration form in the member portal to share your letters of remembrance. https://members.actorsequity.org/member-commemoration[image or embed]— Actors’ Equity Association (@actorsequity.bsky.social) July 6, 2026 at 11:56 AMAFSCME:When workers at the Geneva Public Library District in Illinois decided to form a union, they turned to AFSCME Council 31. The workers want a voice on the job and a real say in the decisions that shape their workplace. https://t.co/1EY9N91PhX— AFSCME (@AFSCME) July 8, 2026Air Line Pilots Association:On July 7, 2007, Delta Air Lines Flight 77 departed Rome for Atlanta with 277 passengers and approximately 149,000 pounds of fuel onboard. What happened next showed why having two pilots on the flight deck matters. 🧵 pic.twitter.com/l9lnvj4bv3— Air Line Pilots Association (@ALPAPilots) July 7, 2026Alliance for Retired Americans:Here’s the periodic reminder if we #ScrapTheCap, all Americans will get the Social Security benefits we’ve paid for with every paycheck (and the billionaires will still be billionaires). It’s a win-win for everyone! 🎊— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) July 7, 2026Amalgamated Transit Union:Working people across Mississippi are standing in solidarity with our Local 1208 JTRAN members in their fight for a fair contract. Thanks for the support. #OurVoiceOurPower #1u @AFLCIO https://t.co/QEnAR0qc1I— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) July 8, 2026American Federation of Teachers:”Devices down, eyes up, hands-on.” Read @rweingarten.bsky.social’s full remarks outlining a bold new vision to boost teaching and learning in the AI era ⤵️ open.substack.com/pub/randiwei…[image or embed]— AFT (@aft.org) May 27, 2026 at 1:59 PMAmerican Postal Workers Union:Vote-by-Mail! It’s safe, secure, and effective. Hear what fellow Americans have to say: pic.twitter.com/9wrwuWJQIC— The American Postal Workers Union – APWU (@APWUnational) July 7, 2026Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:13 years ago today, Flight Attendants onboard Asiana Airlines Flight 214 that crash-landed at San Francisco airport on July 6, 2013, safely evacuated 288 passengers from the burning plane. pic.twitter.com/jTsxTrJWU5— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) July 6, 2026Boilermakers:Everyone at the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers’ headquarters wishes our #Boilermaker brothers and sisters, their families and all our union friends and partners in the labor movement a safe and happy Fourth of July weekend! 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/Z0ZIH29Sqc— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) July 3, 2026Bricklayers:Happy Independence Day! 🎆 This 4th of July, we celebrate the hands that build America!Proudly built by our members of #NewJersey ADC, MetLife Stadium stands ready to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final.#UnionStrong #4thOfJuly #WorldCup2026 pic.twitter.com/CwAH2sFFYX— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) July 4, 2026Communications Workers of America:Microsoft has eliminated an initial wave of 1,600 jobs across its Xbox division, including hundreds of union video game workers represented by CWA.Our union will take all necessary legal and contractual action to defend our members and their rights.https://t.co/tx4CjcI0bG— CWA (@CWAUnion) July 7, 2026Department for Professional Employees:We stand with @sciamunion.bsky.social. Springer Nature decided to sell Scientific American and layoff staff after they organized a union with @wgaeast.bsky.social. We call on the publication’s new owner, LabX Media, to recognize the union & bargain a fair contract. actionnetwork.org/petitions/an…[image or embed]— Department for Professional Employees, AFL-CIO (@dpeaflcio.bsky.social) July 1, 2026 at 4:42 PMElectrical Workers:Solidarity at work: Long Island Railroad workers win long overdue raises. https://t.co/MJ4axg9DHD ✊✊✊ pic.twitter.com/xNK4x6ctRI— IBEW (@IBEW) July 6, 2026Fire Fighters:🔥The National #Firefighter Registry for Cancer was signed into law #OnThisDay in 2018. The registry collects data on cancer in fire fighters to help scientists study the link between the two, which could lead to better prevention and safety protocols.https://t.co/fyaNqbTyjE pic.twitter.com/RFfhDzO8oK— International Association of Fire Fighters (@IAFFofficial) July 7, 2026Heat and Frost Insulators:Heat & Frost Recovery Group 🦎Looking for support? Join a Zoom-based support group only for union insulators & their families to address struggles with addiction & mental health. 📲 Weekly Zoom meetings on Thursdays at 7:00pm EST. 🔗 To learn more and for the Zoom Meeting ID… pic.twitter.com/5agEmcN521— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) June 29, 2026International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers:”Unions are here to help people.”In SMART Local 33’s Meet a Member series, Wheeling, West Virginia member Ezra Cavicchia talks about his journey into the trade and how the union sheet metal trade is already paying off for him and his career: https://t.co/JZinPVKWVk— SMART Union (@smartunionworks) July 7, 2026International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers:Working People Across North America Need a Workers-First Trade Policyhttps://t.co/kHcqoVFvn8— IFPTE (@IFPTE) July 3, 2026International Union of Police Associations:The I.U.P.A. brings you the NewsWatch every week. Click on this link to see the latest news for I.U.P.A. members! https://t.co/g3n6KdALt2 pic.twitter.com/ZoODC12yC3— International Union Of Police Associations (@IUPA34233) July 8, 2026Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:This Independence Day, we celebrate the enduring ideals of freedom and democracy. Freedom is more than a promise—it is a responsibility. It is shown through our actions, our participation, and our commitment to one another.#IndependenceDay #4thofJuly pic.twitter.com/KurARLjWaY— LCLAA (@LCLAA) July 4, 2026Laborers:LABORERS just got stronger. Congratulations to the workers at Ammega in Beacon, NY for choosing the strength of LIUNA Local 235. Welcome to the LIUNA family, where working people stand TOGETHER and win! #UNIONYES #OrganizeorDie #workersrights pic.twitter.com/5Q6QEOLjbY— LIUNA (@LIUNA) July 7, 2026Machinists:IAM District 4 members at the Federation of American Scientists have secured a first contract! The agreement establishes new workplace protections, strengthens worker rights, and builds a foundation for future gains.https://t.co/t1l9fH0C6V— IAM Union (@IAM_Union) July 8, 2026Major League Baseball Players Association:I’d be willing to die protecting that flag, but I won’t bleed on it.”In an upcoming episode of the Stitch by Stitch Podcast, Rick Monday shares the unforgettable words of a young injured service member he met while visiting Walter Reed Medical Center with his wife, Barbalee. pic.twitter.com/pTeY1uSf7K— MLBPA (@MLBPA) July 4, 2026Major League Soccer Players Association:Happy 250th Independence Day!🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/ElITc7EqLV— MLSPA (@MLSPA) July 4, 2026Maritime Trades Department:AFL-CIO Adopts Resolution on Revitalizing Domestic Shipbuildinghttps://t.co/AHu0UGe5fc@AFLCIO— Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO (@Maritime_Trades) June 30, 2026Musical Artists:AGMA Announces 2026 and Beyond Strategic Action Plan: www.musicalartists.org/agma-announc…[image or embed]— American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA) (@weareagma.bsky.social) April 2, 2026 at 1:31 PMNational Air Traffic Controllers Association:NATCA is pleased to announce the winners of the 22nd Annual Archie League Medal of Safety, along with the winner of the 11th Region X Commitment to Safety Award. https://t.co/R5PsChGhMr pic.twitter.com/9Fe4Iwu7UV— NATCA (@NATCA) July 7, 2026National Association of Letter Carriers:NALCU is your one-stop shop for official online training for NALC members taught by NALC members. Log in to the Members Only portal on https://t.co/HD8dYbBUl3 to get started. pic.twitter.com/Ef6xpYBPAd— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) July 8, 2026National Nurses United:800 Denver nurses are celebrating a historic union victory! 🏔️Nurses first tried to unionize in 2024 and @HCAhealthcare illegally interfered with the election. 😡 Despite their union busting and 2/3 turnover of nursing staff, we fought back and won!https://t.co/RSKCoTLMHK— National Nurses United (@NationalNurses) July 3, 2026NFL Players Association:Welcome Dr. Myron L. Rolle 👏Read the full announcement: https://t.co/Lukgs4Mjek https://t.co/gvQmtE36fs— NFLPA (@NFLPA) July 6, 2026North America’s Building Trades Unions:A good union job can change your life. Earn while you learn, avoid student debt, and build a career with great pay, healthcare, and retirement benefits.That’s why more women are building a career in the trades💪https://t.co/BWaai5WenW— The Building Trades (@NABTU) July 8, 2026Operating Engineers:The Statue of Liberty, a gift from France, was assembled in Paris, shipped in 350 pieces, and raised in 1886 by Operating Engineers. Today, she proudly stands as a symbol of freedom and the spirit of America. #IUOE #OperatingEngineers #BuildingHistory #StatueOfLiberty #America250 pic.twitter.com/546gtI6uRr— International Union of Operating Engineers (@iuoe_union) July 3, 2026Painters and Allied Trades:“The life is good, you just gotta work hard.”Sergio Villanueva, an apprentice with Local 636, DC 36, shares some advice for those who are interested in joining our trades. Show up, work hard, listen to your teachers and fellow members, and make sure you go to your union… pic.twitter.com/W2DjJdTwOZ— IUPAT (@GoIUPAT) July 8, 2026Professional Hockey Players’ Association:For decades, Bert Villarini has been a trusted advocate for professional hockey players.At last week’s PHPA Annual Meetings, Bert was surprised with the Curt Leichner Distinguished Member Award in recognition of his longstanding commitment to the Association and its members.… pic.twitter.com/KlQnUZnosk— PHPA (@thephpa) July 3, 2026Professional Aviation Safety Specialists:As we celebrate, remember this day never about fireworks or cookouts. It’s about ideals the Declaration of Independence represents—250 years later, American Experiment goes on. Many PASS-represented employees @FAANews are at work keeping skies safe! #America250 #PublicService. pic.twitter.com/ZQFcTptBOh— PASS (@PASSNational) July 3, 2026Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:Steward Spotlight! 🫡 Today we’re shouting out the leaders who help resolve grievances and keep our shops running fairly. You are the heartbeat of the RWDSU! #StewardSpotlight #UnionLeadership #1u pic.twitter.com/MmkjiZ5PeU— RWDSU (@RWDSU) July 7, 2026Roofers and Waterproofers:Please be careful out there!Construction workers are at risk for heat-related illnesses and, in severe cases, death. However, these illnesses and deaths are preventable.For more resources visit https://t.co/sDESSPwmsz#safety #safetyfirst #heat pic.twitter.com/SbtLR1wMfZ— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) July 2, 2026SAG-AFTRA:Despite how common performance capture use has become, there are still many misunderstandings about who, what, and how. Learn more on the SAG-AFTRA podcast with #SagAftraMember Woody Schultz and SAG-AFTRA NED & Chief Negotiator @DuncanCI! 🎧 Listen now: https://t.co/huq3JUDAhF pic.twitter.com/nFrZnwintP— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) July 8, 2026Service Employees International Union:For 250 years, working people have built this country.Not CEOs. Not billionaires. Working people.From caring for our communities to keeping our economy running, workers have been the backbone of America. This #July4th, we honor that legacy and continue the work of building a… pic.twitter.com/HLIe1HQkIy— SEIU (@SEIU) July 4, 2026Solidarity Center:”The rapid expansion of carbon markets across Africa is deeply consequential for workers… At its core, this is about the future of work, democratic governance, & the realization of rights.” More about worker rights in carbon markets in Africa here👉🏽 https://t.co/EdLQp2DeON pic.twitter.com/wSwJomHW1k— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) July 6, 2026The NewsGuild-CWA:Our @hcnunion members just won a first contract with so many wins! https://t.co/2VS7bxCnHS— The NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) July 2, 2026Theatrical Stage Employees:Hot Off the Press! The Q2 Official Bulletin is now available.⁰⁰Featuring:⁰📌 Two Countries, One Union Feature⁰📌 Juilliard Workers Secure Landmark Union Victory.⁰📌 Local Union News⁰⁰🔗 Check it out here: https://t.co/Gg77j2K6r3 pic.twitter.com/hpALj6jNKK— IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) July 3, 2026Transport Workers Union:July 4: Independence Day Today we celebrate 250 Years of Independence from the British Empire. We honor our United States of America, the greatest country the world has ever known, founded on democratic values which continue to guide us forward in our pursuit of life, liberty,… pic.twitter.com/Q9uOSuVqmw— TWU (@transportworker) July 4, 2026Transportation Trades Department:POLICY STATEMENT: Lawmakers must work together to pass an aviation safety bill of the highest standard, which includes integrated ADSB-In technology. Preventing future collisions and saving lives is a no-brainer. https://t.co/nLgQcMKYxm pic.twitter.com/1yzTMkuAz5— TTD | America’s Transportation Unions (@TTDAFLCIO) July 7, 2026UAW:In a new white paper, “Trade and the American Dream: NAFTA, the USMCA, and the Future of the Working Class,” the UAW outlines a bold new vision for pro-worker trade policy amid the backdrop of USMCA renegotiations. To read the white paper, visit https://t.co/KqCZIaiXeS pic.twitter.com/YuDclgL1Ta— UAW (@UAW) June 29, 2026Union Veterans Council:As we kick off this historic holiday weekend celebrating #America250 , We Honor the dual foundation of our country: the service members who defended our freedom, and the union labor movement that built it.Wishing all a safe and powerful 4th of July weekend! pic.twitter.com/QxommD0U64— Union Veterans Council🪖✊ (@unionveterans) July 3, 2026UNITE HERE:Last week, Local 1 members & Madison community leaders stood with them because no one fights alone. For almost a year, Hilton Madison workers have been fighting for a 1st union contract with better wages, quality, affordable healthcare, & respect. pic.twitter.com/QlRC7vu9IF— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) July 7, 2026United Food and Commercial Workers:L1445 members at Gorton’s Seafood in MA, have reeled in a NEW 3 year contract!After rejecting the company’s first offer, they came back with meaningful wage increases, better health insurance, more flexible PTO, & stronger scheduling protections.🔗 https://t.co/Eo6XFdTenH pic.twitter.com/qhbQVpVJjV— UFCW (@UFCW) July 8, 2026United Steelworkers:A piece of our history is on display in Seattle. The Museum of History and Industry’s exhibit, “For Which It Stands,” features a Steelworkers T-shirt worn during the 1999 Battle in Seattle & signed by union activists who stood together in the streets: https://t.co/UvoPUvpO3O pic.twitter.com/aTRlyIuDXs— United Steelworkers Union (@steelworkers) July 8, 2026Writers Guild of America East:Shame on @springernature.com for union busting! We call on @sciam.bsky.social’s new owner @labx.org to recognize the @sciamunion.bsky.social and prepare to bargain a fair first contract. Thank you to everyone who joined yesterday’s Scientific American Union rally in solidarity ✊[image or embed]— Writers Guild of America East (@wgaeast.bsky.social) July 1, 2026 at 12:05 PM
Kenneth Quinnell
Wed, 07/08/2026 – 10:48
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: IBEW Reaches Tentative Agreement to End PECO Strike
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: IBEW Reaches Tentative Agreement to End PECO Strike
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 Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 614 reached a powerful new tentative agreement Monday night, ending their three-day strike against PECO. United in solidarity, linemen, gas technicians, mechanics, call center workers and back office workers stood shoulder to shoulder and won all of their major contract priorities at the electric company. “Tonight, we declare victory,” Larry Anastasi, the president and business manager of Local 614, said in a statement. “IBEW Local 614 is ending our strike with a historic win and a landmark contract. This is the beginning of a new era at PECO, one where greed does not go unchecked and the workers who make modern life possible get the respect and dignity we are owed.”
Kenneth Quinnell
Wed, 07/08/2026 – 09:49
There’s Nothing More American Than Unions: In the States Roundup
There’s Nothing More American Than Unions: 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:From the Last Frontier to all 50 states, working people have helped build this country for 250 years. Wishing our members and their families a safe and happy Fourth of July! 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/m7t7GXd4vK— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) July 3, 2026California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:As we celebrate 250 years of democracy, remember this: A strong middle class is the foundation of a free society. Without it, democracy cannot survive. The @CaliforniaLabor movement is committed to holding the line against authoritarianism, by securing economic stability,… pic.twitter.com/WhDY3mgzpT— California Federation of Labor Unions (@CaliforniaLabor) July 4, 2026Illinois AFL-CIO:An oldie but a goodie. Moving pictures. Good music. Mother Jones. What a line up!Rockford has always been a union town. #ThrowbackThursday #UnionStrong #1u pic.twitter.com/DyNj5J4D95— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) June 25, 2026Iowa AFL-CIO:Now more than ever we need elected officials who will focus on working family issues. In 132 days we have a chance to make that happen! Visit https://t.co/eFefx633oz to find union endorsed candidates who will put workers 1st! ✊ ✊#jobs #costofliving #retirement #healthinsurance pic.twitter.com/ejzd26e5Zt— Iowa AFL-CIO ✊ (@IowaAFLCIO) June 24, 2026Maine AFL-CIO:More than 150 union members attended the Mane AFL-CIO’s COPE Convention in Auburn where we shared bargaining & organizing updates; ratified our Contract with Maine’s Working-Class agenda; discussed our 2026 political program; & made many endorsements.https://t.co/0Fhd7nVjUZ— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) July 2, 2026Massachusetts AFL-CIO:America is union made, and working people make our country strong.Happy 250th Independence Day pic.twitter.com/hvombDBLdR— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) July 4, 2026Michigan State AFL-CIO:Proof that solidarity pays💪 pic.twitter.com/ndQ02Fk7dl— Michigan AFL-CIO ✊ (@MIAFLCIO) July 6, 2026Missouri AFL-CIO:Since the passing of the Big Ugly Bill, the U.S. economy has had one of the worst years of job growth in decades. Make no mistake, this failure was made possible by every senator and representative who voted to sell out working people to corporations and billionaires. pic.twitter.com/xe38U6P3LS— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) July 6, 2026Nevada State AFL-CIO:Today is National Air Traffic Controller Day! We recognize the approximately 14,000 certified controllers across the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) who manage over 45,000 daily flights to keep the National Airspace System safe every single day. pic.twitter.com/jXMgfc2Aj2— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) July 6, 2026New York State AFL-CIO:New York State AFL-CIO Endorses Kathy Hochul for Reelection as Governor, Tish James for Reelection as Attorney General: https://t.co/2KkSRvrxGF— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) July 1, 2026Oregon Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO:On this holiday, while many of us are spending time with our friends and family, Oregon’s essential workers are working hard ensuring our safety and well-being. pic.twitter.com/rWtKwcO0nt— Oregon Labor Federation, AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) July 4, 2026Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:Our work isn’t finished until liberty and justice truly belong to all. 🇺🇸✊ pic.twitter.com/90PVGW5S7W— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) July 4, 2026Texas AFL-CIO:Registration is NOW OPEN for our 23rd annual Texas AFL-CIO • Walter Umphrey Golf Tournament ⛳This is one of our largest fundraisers of the year. Help us grow the Texas labor movement! Tickets and sponsorships are available at https://t.co/oaxxREF70y pic.twitter.com/kW3MdSK0KQ— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) July 6, 2026Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO:Solidarity works! https://t.co/7igDpa7lvv— Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO (@WAAFLCIO) June 29, 2026Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:Wisconsin Laborers union breaks new ground with peer support for members https://t.co/1OHVYYiiiz— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) July 1, 2026
Kenneth Quinnell
Tue, 07/07/2026 – 10:29
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: AFL-CIO Details Harms to Working People for One Year of Big Ugly Bill
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: AFL-CIO Details Harms to Working People for One Year of Big Ugly Bill
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.
One year ago, President Trump signed the so-called Big Beautiful Bill, commemorating the July 4th holiday by throwing millions off their health care and food assistance and cutting hundreds of thousands of health care jobs. The AFL-CIO marks the anniversary by detailing the damage the law has done to working families, while the wealthiest few continue to cash in.In a statement, AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler said:“It’s been one year since President Trump signed the worst job-killing bill in American history. It was made possible by every senator and representative who voted to sell out working people and pick their pockets to hand another payday to corporations and billionaires.“Since the passing of the Big Ugly Bill, the U.S. economy has had one of the worst years of job growth in decades. Black workers have been hit the hardest, with an unemployment rate now more than double the rate for White workers. Millions of Americans have lost their health care and access to the food programs they rely on, all while dealing with higher costs on everything from gas and groceries to electricity. With even bigger cuts going into effect after the midterm elections, states’ budgets are getting blown up and local lawmakers are planning devastating cuts to even more essential programs to cover their residents’ SNAP and Medicaid costs. Meanwhile, the people at the top are doing better than ever. This bill handed billionaires, one trillionaire and the country’s wealthiest corporations massive tax giveaways paid for by the social programs working families depend on to survive.“In 1776, Americans stood up against a powerful king who thought he could steal from us, trample on our rights and get away with it. We refused to be silenced. Two hundred and fifty years later, that same spirit is alive in American workers who organize their jobsites, fight for policies that actually help workers and show up at the ballot box to hold their elected representatives accountable. “This Independence Day and every day, America’s unions continue to fight the damage this bill has caused and build an economy that actually works for working people.”Read the full statement from President Shuler here.
Kenneth Quinnell
Tue, 07/07/2026 – 09:41
Get to Know AFL-CIO’s Trade Departments: Metal Trades Department
Get to Know AFL-CIO’s Trade Departments: Metal Trades Department
This is the next post in our series that will take a deeper look at each of our trade departments. The series will run weekly until we’ve covered each of the departments. Next up is the Metal Trades Department (MTD).
Name of Department: Metal Trades DepartmentMission: The Metal Trades Department is a trade department of the AFL-CIO. It was chartered in 1908 to coordinate negotiating, organizing and legislative efforts of affiliated metalworking and related crafts and trade unions. Seventeen national and international unions are affiliated with the Metal Trades Department today. More than 100,000 workers in private industry and federal establishments work under contracts negotiated by Metal Trades Councils. Workers retain membership in their own trade unions.Current Leadership: Dale M. Troll serves as president. Members of the Metal Trades Department Executive Council are Mark McManus (1st vice president), James A. Williams Jr. (2nd vice president), Terry Larkin (3rd vice president), Kenneth Cooper (4th vice president), Kevin Sexton (5th vice president), Brent Booker (6th vice president), Michael Coleman (7th vice president), Brian Bryant (8th vice president), Timothy Simmons (9th vice president), John L. Downey (10th vice president) and Kevin Bryenton (11th vice president).Affiliated Unions: Boilermakers (IBB); Electrical Workers (IBEW); Glass, Molders, Pottery, Plastics and Allied Workers-USW (GMP-USW); Heat and Frost Insulators (HFIU); International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (SMART); International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT); International Chemical Workers Union Council-UFCW (ICWUC-UFCW); International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE); Ironworkers; Laborers (LIUNA); IAM Union (IAM); Office and Professional Employees (OPEIU); Operating Engineers (IUOE); Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT); Plasterers and Cement Masons (OPCMIA); National Association of Government Employees/SEIU (NAGE/SEIU); and United Association of Union Plumbers and Pipefitters (UA).History: On June 15, 1908, the AFL Executive Board closed out a busy session—officially chartering four new departments for the federation, including the Metal Trades, the Building Trades, the Union Label and the Railroad Department. When the Metal Trades charter was officially issued, IAM President James O’Connell was elected its first president. He was joined by Secretary-Treasurer A.J. Berres, and vice presidents James W. Kline, Joseph A. Franklin, John R. Alpine, J.J. Hynes, Joseph F. Valentine and W.W. Britton. The Metal Trades Department’s first affiliates were the Amalgamated Sheet Metal Workers’ International Alliance; International Association of Blacksmiths; Brotherhood of Boilermakers, Iron Shipbuilders of America; International Federation of Draftsmen’s Unions; International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers; International Union of Steam Engineers, International Brotherhood of Stationary Firemen and Oilers; International Brotherhood of Foundry Employees; International Association of Machinists; Metal Polishers, Buffers, Platers, Brass and Silver Workers’ International Union; International Moulders’ Union of North America; Pattern Makers’ League of North America; International Union of Stove Mounters; and United Association of Plumbers and Steamfitters of the U.S. and Canada.The department held its founding convention in Cincinnati in February 1909. The department has been consistently vigorous and active in support of the United States’ defense against foreign aggression. At its founding, the department’s president intervened with the secretary of the Navy to bring about industrial peace in U.S. shipyards as the United States was rapidly expanding its Navy to assume a role as a young superpower at sea.The department and many of its affiliates were involved in the construction and operations of the 41-mile Panama Canal. At a cost of $380 million, the canal project employed 70,000 workers over the 10 years it took to complete it (in 1914); 5,600 workers died on the job.After World War I, as world leaders responded to calls for disarmament, President Woodrow Wilson initiated a downsizing of the U.S. defense establishment, which consisted primarily of a vast naval arsenal. One of the unexpected consequences of that action was massive unemployment in U.S. shipyards. The situation became acute as some 10,000 shipyard workers had been laid off by 1922. The situation prompted John J. O’Connell, accompanied by AFL President Samuel Gompers, to convene a meeting with Navy Secretary Edwin Denby and his then-assistant secretary, Franklin Roosevelt, to suggest that the shipyard workers be put back to work to dismantle some 120 surplus Navy vessels.The Metal Trades Department remained the primary collective bargaining organization for trade unions in shipbuilding and armament manufacturing through the Roaring ’20s, confronting many of the same industrial developments that unions in manufacturing faced.After more than a quarter-century of frustration over corporate domination of government, the New Deal ushered in a period of reform and regulation that began to level the playing field for workers and their unions. With the enactment of the National Labor Relations Act in 1935, the establishment of the National Labor Relations Board and widespread organizing success that followed, the prestige of labor leaders was on the rise. Even during the New Deal, when labor acknowledged a strong ally with Roosevelt in the White House, unions still had to fight hard to keep corporate power and greed in check. For the Metal Trades, a good deal of that struggle involved maneuvering around the bureaucracy of the National Recovery Act.By Dec. 7, 1941, the U.S. shipbuilding industry was bustling as it constructed Liberty ships as part of the Lend-Lease Act intended to fend off Germany’s aggression against the British. Labor’s commitment to wartime production was critical to the eventual Allied victory over Japan and Germany.New challenges continue to arise and leadership continues to look back on the legacy of the organization for inspiration and direction.Learn More: Website, Facebook, X
Kenneth Quinnell
Mon, 06/29/2026 – 16:19
A Culture That is Collaborative, Equitable and Inclusive: The Working People Weekly List
A Culture That is Collaborative, Equitable and Inclusive: 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.
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.What Unions Want on AI Policy: “The AFL-CIO is trying to thread the needle, opposing a moratorium while supporting ‘regulations in place so that the water and power usage is done responsibly.’ Here’s Shuler: ‘We need the guardrails on AI, we just don’t think that a moratorium is the way to get there.’”Washtenaw Community College, Roofers’ Union Sign 10-Year Training Extension: “Washtenaw Community College (WCC) and the United Union of Roofers, Waterproofers and Allied Workers have signed a 10-year extension of their longstanding training partnership. The formalized agreement allows the union’s National Instructor Training Program to continue to be hosted at Washtenaw Community College through 2035. WCC President Rose Bellanca says it strengthens a partnership that prepares roofing industry instructors from across North America in skills that they will impart to fellow union members back home.”Sean Astin and Duncan Crabtree-Ireland: Our Faces and Voices Belong to Us. Let’s Make It Law: “Many Americans reasonably assume that they are protected from having their identities stolen in the form of synthetic depictions of themselves saying things they would never say and doing things they would never do. Shockingly, our nation’s laws do not ensure that we all have the right to say ‘yes’ or ‘no’ to whether someone else uses our visual likeness or voice to create realistic AI imposters. When images and voices are stolen, a person’s words are no longer their own, and a sacred trust between people is broken.”Ocean State Public Media Votes to Unionize: “Employees at Ocean State Public Media in Providence, R.I., voted last week to unionize with the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists. 71% of the employees in the unit voted in favor of unionizing, according to a SAG-AFTRA spokesperson. The unit currently consists of 14 content creators, all of whom voted. The employees announced their intent to unionize last month. They said in a petition to management that they want ‘a culture that is collaborative, equitable and inclusive.’”Production Assistants Ratify Three Warner Bros. TV Union Contracts: “Production assistants on three shows produced by Warner Bros. Television—Abbott Elementary, George & Mandy’s First Marriage and All American—have ratified their first union contracts. The staffers, about 15 in total, unanimously voted to ratify the three separate contracts in a vote that ended Tuesday, The Hollywood Reporter has learned. Their union, Production Assistants United, is affiliated with the Hollywood laborers’ union LiUNA Local 724.”‘The Ability to Say No’: Artists Demand Consent Over AI Use of Their Music: “This letter comes at a time when policymakers are reviewing copyright rules in response to AI and when streaming platforms and social media platforms are overflowing with AI-generated music. The American Federation of Musicians recently sued Universal Music Group and Warner Music Group, alleging the major labels ‘received significant compensation’ from the AI companies for past copyright violations and licensed ‘substantial’ portions of their music catalogs to them, but haven’t shared that with the musicians.”
Kenneth Quinnell
Fri, 06/26/2026 – 12:03