AFL-CIO
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Cannabis Dispensary Workers in Ohio Vote to Join UFCW
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Cannabis Dispensary Workers in Ohio 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.
Staff at Sunnyside Dispensary in Chillicothe, Ohio, have successfully voted to form a union with United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 1059.These wellness advisers—also sometimes called budtenders—provide expert recommendations for products, educate customers and more. Workers rallied together to win their election so they could secure fair sick-leave policies, improved health care benefits, better safety protocols and more input into day-to-day operations.“We are excited to get to the bargaining table and negotiate a first contract that empowers us and reflects the value that we bring every day,” said Stacie Hupp, a wellness adviser at Sunnyside Dispensary. “We started this movement by simply talking to each other about how to make our jobs better, and now we have an opportunity to make that vision a reality.”
Kenneth Quinnell
Fri, 10/02/2026 – 09:42
Tags:
Organizing
Worker Wins: ‘Proud and Thankful’
Worker Wins: ‘Proud and Thankful’
Our latest roundup of worker wins includes numerous examples of working people organizing, bargaining and mobilizing for a better life.
TWU Members Ratify Six-Year Contract with Akron Metro: Transport Workers Union (TWU) Local 1 members in Ohio ratified a new six-year contract with Akron Metro last week that contains major economic wins. This powerful deal comes nearly three months after bus operators, vehicle service workers and clerical workers approved a strike authorization. TWU members secured a 21% compounded wage increase over the lifetime of the agreement, a $2,000 signing bonus, retroactive pay and more. “We fought back and drove the economic value of the contract much higher than the bosses ever thought possible,” TWU International President John Samuelsen said. “We put together a strategic campaign with Local 1 leadership, executed the plan, and secured a contract that gives workers the respect and economic advancement they deserve.” “I’m proud of my members,” TWU Local 1 President Wayne Cole said. “They leafleted riders, held rallies, spoke out at Metro Board meetings—and were ready to strike. Once management realized workers were organized and ready to take strike action, they buckled.”Script Coordinators and Writers’ Room Assistants Win First Contract: Script coordinators and writers’ room assistants working in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut have won their card check to join Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 161 and now have their first contract. These craftspeople—who previously worked under the hard-won union wage and protection standards in Los Angeles for years but didn’t have those same protections on the other side of the country—secured coast-to-coast agreement coverage with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) in early August. “We’re proud and thankful to be joining Local 161,” said the organizing committee. “This campaign started back in 2018, stalled several times, but picked up in a meaningful way last year, largely due to a dedicated group of Script Coordinators and supporters on the 161 side. We made our case for why Script Coordinators and Writers’ Room Assistants on the East Coast deserve the same protections our colleagues have in Los Angeles, collected the necessary support from eligible workers, and today we have an agreement with the AMPTP. We’re grateful to every member of Local 161 who welcomed our crafts, and we’re ready to get to work alongside you with the same tenacity we brought to this campaign.”Workers at Baltimore Animal Shelter Win Union Representation: Staff at the Baltimore Animal Rescue and Care Shelter (BARCS) have voted overwhelmingly to join AFSCME Maryland Council 3. The BARCS Workers United bargaining unit will represent a wide range of staff, including adoptions counselors, animal care attendants, cat foster coordinators, surgery assistants and others. Staff at the shelter decided to organize for a strong voice on the job after management refused to address important workplace concerns. Now the newly minted union members are ready to bargain for a fair contract that will ensure better pay for the lowest-paid workers, improved protections and safety protocols, respect in the workplace and the power to better advocate for themselves and the communities they serve in support. “As BARCS staff, we give animals a second chance, and today, we gave ourselves a stronger voice to better stand up for the animals and for our fellow co-workers. This is only the first step before negotiations for the betterment of BARCS and Baltimore’s animal welfare system as a whole,” said Taylor Hilton, a BARCS Workers United member and a veterinary technician. “Today’s victory for BARCS workers truly embodies the mission of AFSCME Maryland: to improve conditions for Marylanders so that they can do the important work that keeps our communities running. BARCS employees work tirelessly to provide safety and security to animals in need, and that goes hand in hand with providing safety and security to them,” said Sabeela Ally, executive director of AFSCME Maryland. Loft Cinema Workers Unanimously Ratify First CBA: Members of the Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 415 who work at Loft Cinema in Tucson, Arizona, have voted unanimously to ratify their first union contract. The nonprofit art house cinema has a historic connection to Local 415—Loft projectionists were represented by the union in the first few years of the theater’s operation, but that ended after the theater management changed in the early 1970s. Decades later, current staff have revived their membership and now have a contract that ensures wage increases, expanded paid time off, paid breaks, overtime pay for work on holidays, weekly hours guarantees and more. “We’re very proud of the hard work of the Loft employees during their campaign to unionize and their persistence in bargaining this agreement,” said Local 415 Business Agent Ian Fritz. “Our union is honored to represent them, and I hope their success sends a message to movie theater workers across Tucson that joining a union is every worker’s right.”Central Maine Medical Center Nurses Vote Overwhelmingly to Form Union: After weathering intense interference from hospital management, registered nurses (RNs) at Central Maine Medical Center (CMMC) have voted overwhelmingly to join Maine State Nurses Association/National Nurses Organizing Committee (MSNA/NNOC), an affiliate of National Nurses United (NNU). This landslide victory and display of solidarity is especially meaningful given that Prime Healthcare, the hospital’s owner, fired and suspended 20 nurses during the organizing campaign in retaliation for speaking up and fighting for their patients. Now that the election is over, MSNA members will continue to demand the reinstatement of their illegally disciplined coworkers and are preparing to negotiate a first contract that protects their voice on the job. “We are beyond thrilled to win our union election. Prime Healthcare thought they could silence us,” said Aaron McDaniel, an RN in the intensive care unit. “But now we are members of National Nurses Organizing Committee and we will use our voices to speak up loudly for our patients. We’re so proud to join NNOC because we know we will win a contract that will make a drastic difference for our patients and for us as nurses to build a healthier community.”AutoZone Workers Vote to Join UAW, First for Nationwide Chain: Workers at an AutoZone location in White Plains, New York, have made history by voting to join UAW Local 259, making them the first store at the country’s largest auto parts retailer to organize for a fair contract. Staff cited concerns around low pay and unfair working conditions as core motivators for joining together for a stronger voice on the job. LaborLab—a nonprofit labor rights watchdog organization—and workers identified at least 11 corporate executives, along with several regional and district managers, who appeared at the store leading up to the vote. “It’s like hitting a fly with a mallet,” said Mike DiGuiseppe, Local 259’s vice president. “They’ve had more corporate executive union-busters in the store than workers.” “Our goal is to get compensation, job security, just more things that closely reflect the value that we know that we bring to the company. We’re not getting close to what we’re worth,” said David Valencia, who works at the AutoZone store. “There is no bargaining when you’re alone. They’re only going to bargain when you’re together. So we don’t have a choice. Either we’re going to live in poverty and not be able to pay our bills, or we’re going to do this.”Cleveland Orchestra Musicians Reach New Agreement, Ending Strike: Members of the Cleveland Federation of Musicians, American Federation of Musicians (AFM) Local 4 who perform as part of the Cleveland Orchestra, have ratified a new collective bargaining agreement after a three-day work stoppage. The previous contract covering musicians expired at the end of August, and this year’s strike was the first time members have been on the picket line for more than one day since 1980. Highlights of the new deal include annual 5% wage increases, a collective voice in the audition process, improved safety protocols and more. “We want to thank the thousands of supporters who wrote testimonials, signed our petitions, and carried us through a sometimes painful, but very purposeful effort to ensure this great Cleveland Orchestra will continue to attract and retain the finest musicians in the world,” said Elayna Duitman, Negotiating Committee chair and a violinist in the Orchestra for 16 years. “We were able to agree to a fair compensation package, a voice in our auditions and improved safety for our musicians. We look forward to a wonderful new season of music for the Cleveland Orchestra and our audiences.”Communications Workers Ratify Contract at UC System: UAW Local 4811 members who work as University of California (UC) communication, marketing and sales specialists (ComMaS) have ratified their first collective bargaining agreement. The contract will cover about 1,600 staff across the UC system—they reached a tentative agreement in mid-September. Highlights of the deal include a nearly 28% wage increase, clear guidance around career progression and more. “More and more professional staff are joining UAW 4811 every day, and this is how we will truly meet the moment and fight for the future of public higher education and our work,” said Adra Bowman, a ComMaS bargaining committee member.
Kenneth Quinnell
Thu, 10/01/2026 – 11:54
Tags:
Organizing
Hispanic Heritage Month Profiles: Christian Gonzales
Hispanic Heritage Month Profiles: Christian Gonzales
Throughout Hispanic Heritage Month, the AFL-CIO will be profiling leaders and activists to spotlight the diverse contributions Hispanics and Latinos have made to the labor movement. Today’s profile features Christian Gonzales of AFGE.
For the past 30 years, Christian Gonzales has served as a medical instrument technician with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Gonzales is a strong and committed advocate for working people, and in his union capacity, he has served as executive vice president of AFGE Local 2054 in Little Rock, Arkansas, and as president of the AFGE National Veterans Affairs Council. He is currently in his second term as co-chair of the AFGE Hispanic Coalition.
Kenneth Quinnell
Thu, 10/01/2026 – 10:37
Tags:
Hispanic Heritage Month
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Communications Workers Ratify Contract at UC System
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Communications Workers Ratify Contract at UC System
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.
UAW Local 4811 members who work as University of California (UC) communication, marketing and sales specialists (ComMaS) have ratified their first collective bargaining agreement.The contract will cover about 1,600 staff across the UC system—they reached a tentative agreement in mid-September. Highlights of the deal include a nearly 28% wage increase, clear guidance around career progression and more.“More and more professional staff are joining UAW 4811 every day, and this is how we will truly meet the moment and fight for the future of public higher education and our work,” said Adra Bowman, a ComMaS bargaining committee member.
Kenneth Quinnell
Thu, 10/01/2026 – 10:14
Not One More: What Working People Are Doing This Week
Not One More: 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 Association:Today we shine a spotlight on theaters who are using the Independent Theatre Contract (ITC) for the first time. Thanks for stepping up your support for Equity members! Explore more #EquityWorks tales in The Organizing Voice. Check out the member portal for details. https://bit.ly/4gLA9Zb[image or embed]— Actors’ Equity Association (@actorsequity.bsky.social) September 27, 2026 at 10:35 AMAFSCME:Congratulations to Adalberto Díaz, a forensic investigator in Puerto Rico and member of @SPUPR, who is the latest winner of our union’s Never Quit Service Award. https://t.co/25m81uNUOs— AFSCME (@AFSCME) September 30, 2026Air Line Pilots Association:Congress needs to finish the job and fund air traffic control modernization. Today, @ALPAPresident joined @SecDuffy and other aviation industry leaders to call on Congress to fully fund the @USDOT’s plan. pic.twitter.com/zrDIE4sN7N— Air Line Pilots Association (@ALPAPilots) September 28, 2026Alliance for Retired Americans:⚠️ Every day, bad actors use social media platforms to scam people. What’s worse, tech corporations often profit from these crimes.We’re working to stop it. Join us TODAY for the National Day of Action and learn how you can be part of the fight to stop online scams.🔗 below. pic.twitter.com/VolrBfFcmm— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) September 30, 2026Amalgamated Transit Union:It’s time for Regina Transit to keep their promises to beef up safety for the sake of our Local 588 members and riders. #NotOneMore #canlab https://t.co/WvUCy4jbzD— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) September 28, 2026American Federation of Musicians:Thousands of AFM musicians orchestrate, prepare, and perform the musical scores for film, television, and streaming projects. It is time for our government to allow us to compete for jobs in a global industry. A federal tax incentive is necessary to keep jobs in the United…— AFM (@The_AFM) September 24, 2026American Federation of Teachers:Healthcare is an affordability issue. When rural hospitals close, families travel farther, miss more work and spend more to get care. Working people are already stretched thin. We should make healthcare more affordable and accessible—not harder to reach. www.washingtonpost.com/politics/202…[image or embed]— AFT (@aft.org) September 30, 2026 at 10:42 AMAmerican Postal Workers Union:The Postal Board of Governors has the power to stop harmful measures like the executive order on Vote-by-Mail. Write a letter urging them to permanently end this unlawful and unprincipled attack on democracy at: https://t.co/Ls1S06AayL pic.twitter.com/lBaRqVqB8B— The American Postal Workers Union – APWU (@APWUnational) September 29, 2026Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:Your directly elected Union Officers from 15 AFA Local Executive Councils came to AFA Headquarters this week for our Secretary-Treasurer Conference. At this week’s Conference, participants continued honing the skills necessary for good financial stewardship of our union. pic.twitter.com/TlXlv724tw— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) September 26, 2026Boilermakers:How did L-363 BM/ST Josh Raterman join the Boilermakers? pic.twitter.com/NnFv8nkTDa— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) September 29, 2026Bricklayers:We are incredibly proud of our @bac1mvd members who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and skill while restoring the historic dome and facades of the @visitthecapitol.https://t.co/LaZLyPIQ8H#WorksiteWednesday #BuildingTomorrowTogether pic.twitter.com/9wHDv6p7K8— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) September 30, 2026Communications Workers of America:Today, 268 dedicated video game workers lost their livelihoods as XBOX continues to put profits ahead of the workers who are the heart and soul of the platform’s games. CWA does not expect today’s layoffs to impact union-represented workers.— CWA (@CWAUnion) September 22, 2026Electrical Workers:“#IBEW Local 5 has worked for generations in the powerhouses of Indiana County. Homer City Generation provides our members with decades worth of work, all while modernizing America’s grid infrastructure.” – Ben Steinmeyer, Local 5 https://t.co/xRRrc1QIF0— IBEW (@IBEW) September 30, 2026Fire Fighters:🔥📰 September brought moments of remembrance and hard-fought victories at the bargaining table.Catch up on the stories from across our union in the IAFF newsroom ⬇️https://t.co/wwEofeUgIj— International Association of Fire Fighters (@IAFFofficial) September 30, 2026Heat and Frost Insulators:Catch @UnionSportsmen new Solid Ground episode featuring IVP Brain Cavey, along with his cousin Jamey & father Bernie, as they share a 30-year tradition of fishing for one of the East Coast’s most sought-after game fish, cobia. ▶️ Watch now: https://t.co/eIaWwyqMtl— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) September 30, 2026IAM Union:🎙️ NEW on Shift Change: IAM International President @IAMBrianBryant talks with longtime union member @TroyJackson207 about his campaign for U.S. Senate in Maine – and taking on corporate greed to put working people first.🎧 https://t.co/XEkqAozI26 pic.twitter.com/QiW1HDwxga— IAM Union (@IAM_Union) September 30, 2026International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers:#PartnersInProgress: SMART locals and SMACNA members partner on more than just sheet metal work itself. In CT, SMACNA Southeastern New York and Local 38 collaborated to ensure workers performing off-site fabrication work get the prevailing wage they deserve on public projects. pic.twitter.com/3oS1q1eOGP— SMART Union (@smartunionworks) September 30, 2026International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers:IFPTE Participates in Federal Workforce Union Coalition Lobby Day on Capitol Hillhttps://t.co/4gfJdewVpE— IFPTE (@IFPTE) September 26, 2026International Union of Police Associations:This will be the latest in a series of I.U.P.A. Benefits Zoom calls that last a quick half hour that you can access from anywhere in the country to learn more about the amazing benefits available to you as an I.U.P.A. Member. https://t.co/FW91hk3KYV pic.twitter.com/KgLazWlUBZ— International Union Of Police Associations (@IUPA34233) September 30, 2026Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:¡OJO, WISCONSIN!🦡 🗳️✔️Register to Vote/Check Your Voter Registration: https://t.co/44Q3zGERBc🪪Find out what type of ID you need to vote: https://t.co/cPKJ3ASdFj🗳️Support our comunidad and become a Pollworker: https://t.co/latRY40WKR✊🏽LCLAA#NuestraVozNuestroVoto pic.twitter.com/DFfXDzKFT2— LCLAA (@LCLAA) September 29, 2026Major League Baseball Players Association:The 2026 Postseason Snapshot 📸⤵️ pic.twitter.com/iPn61en5Dz— MLBPA (@MLBPA) September 29, 2026Maritime Trades Department:Hawaii PMC Supports Local Pathways to Maritime Careershttps://t.co/FBYLA2MIxH— Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO (@Maritime_Trades) September 29, 2026National Air Traffic Controllers Association:We may never meet the passengers we protect, but we know our work matters to every traveler, crew, family, and community connected by aviation. We’ll continue working behind the scenes so that every person reaches their destination safely without a second thought. pic.twitter.com/i2TWzYzusB— NATCA (@NATCA) September 29, 2026National Association of Letter Carriers:For sixty years, Lansing, MI Branch 122 gold card member Jack Grossman’s work delivering mail has been guided by his dedication to serving his community and supporting his fellow letter carriers. Congratulations on this well-earned honor, Brother Grossman!https://t.co/rQUuJCusbc— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) September 30, 2026National Day Laborer Organizing Network:A federal judge has restricted warrantless immigration arrests across Southern California. This is an important victory, but the fight is not over. On September 24, the court will consider protections against suspicionless and discriminatory immigration stops.📢 PACK THE COURT… pic.twitter.com/Gqz3BcN6Z9— NDLON (@NDLON) September 22, 2026National Domestic Workers Alliance:Behind every big success is often a quiet story of care. The meals cooked. The kids cared for. The laundry folded. The elders looked after. The village that made it possible to keep going. Care may happen behind the scenes, but it’s what makes everything possible. pic.twitter.com/RgWkArOZHt— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) September 25, 2026National Hockey League Players’ Association:ALL SET FOR THE 2026-27 NHL SEASON 🎬 pic.twitter.com/ZwX7g2z59o— NHLPA (@NHLPA) September 29, 2026National Nurses United:Nurses were thrilled to have our longtime ally @SenSanders join us this morning to talk about our broken health care system and our fight for something better: #MedicareForAll! pic.twitter.com/7XZzyQOtC9— National Nurses United (@NationalNurses) September 30, 2026National Taxi Workers Alliance:Today 4 PM to 11 PM: members of the media are invited to visit the NYTWA office as we hold a daylong info session on our new driver insurance cooperative. Our insurance cooperative is part of the 12-point driver power health and wellness agenda that NYTWA released yesterday and…— NY Taxi Workers (@NYTWA) September 29, 2026NFL Players Association:Week 2 #CommunityMVP @44Ytw sharing the love with Week 3 winner @ShedeurSanders 🌟There’s still time to contribute to Travon’s foundation as it continues to empower youth to reach their full potential. Donate here: https://t.co/9dFrwWUxg6 pic.twitter.com/EGbkirmEKT— NFLPA (@NFLPA) September 29, 2026North America’s Building Trades Unions:. @LIUNA’s Chelsea Fenton is showing what a career in the union trades can look like: good wages, strong benefits and a path to build a future. Read her story in PEOPLE👇https://t.co/472nOE3X7o— The Building Trades (@NABTU) September 30, 2026Painters and Allied Trades:”All of the wallcovering manufacturers and distributors need quality, trained installers. The more they know how to connect with a union-trained installer, the better for everybody. It’s the future.”Check out our recap of TecTrac, the annual wallcovering event that connects the… pic.twitter.com/j7o4XjE7IR— IUPAT (@GoIUPAT) September 30, 2026Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:September was a month of pride and power! We’re heading into October ready to organize even more shops. Let’s keep this momentum going! 💥 #UnionPride #Organizing #Onward pic.twitter.com/fTEcQndgJa— RWDSU (@RWDSU) September 30, 2026Roofers and Waterproofers:Women in the construction industry face challenges finding PPE that fits properly. Poorly fitted PPE is ineffective and can lead to injuries. For examples of commercially-available PPE for women, visit: https://t.co/vf0h95a8aw #roofersafety365 pic.twitter.com/wZehrPHYpp— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) September 28, 2026SAG-AFTRA:Happy International Podcast Day! SAG-AFTRA is proud to power and protect podcast artists. Any podcast can be a SAG-AFTRA Podcast, get in touch at podcastcontracts@sagaftra.org. #InternationalPodcastDay 🎙️ The Pete Davidson Show 🎙️ I Think You’re Overthinking It pic.twitter.com/j0wIBqN3k5— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) September 30, 2026Service Employees International Union:WATCH @SEIUPres express how attacks on immigrant workers will make our nation’s care crisis even worse! 3 in 10 home care workers are immigrants. This is a moment for action. We’re calling on Congress to create a pathway to citizenship for longtime residents like our TPS union… pic.twitter.com/5ICW3rhe7T— SEIU (@SEIU) September 29, 2026Solidarity Center:Workers having a seat at the table is our cup of tea 🍵 The Sudanese Tea Sellers Union just partnered with the Governor of Khartoum to provide tea sellers with 3,500 kiosks to work in, free of taxes and fees, giving these women workers a safer, more secure way to earn a living. pic.twitter.com/zoitwH7lmI— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) September 29, 2026The NewsGuild-CWA:McClatchy laid off 90+ talented journalists and media workers this month. Workers are all in to continue producing high-quality journalism for their communities. Write a letter to McClatchy asking what their priorities are: https://t.co/Sxqdvr9baJ pic.twitter.com/gKQhDbNxPx— The NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) September 28, 2026Theatrical Stage Employees:The @IATSE_DEI Committee stands in solidarity with our Canadian kin on National Day for Truth & Reconciliation, honouring Residential School Survivors, their families, & communities while remembering the children who never returned home.Full statement: https://t.co/kfbjb5OpSc— IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) September 30, 2026Transport Workers Union:It’s official! TWU International and Local 1 secured a new 6-year contract for Akron bus workers with a 21% compounded wage increase, big back-pay checks and a signing bonus. The bosses demanded zeros but the TWU fought back and prevailed. Congratulations Local 1 members for… pic.twitter.com/C6seOEle1x— TWU (@transportworker) September 29, 2026Transportation Trades Department:🚨 Amid record profits, CSX railroad plans to cut or furlough 1,000 workers.These staffing reductions will lead to fewer in-person track inspections, maintenance backlogs & unnecessary safety risks for workers, the public & the communities served by CSX. https://t.co/4DQjild9AS pic.twitter.com/U4JDW23LjY— TTD | America’s Transportation Unions (@TTDAFLCIO) September 29, 2026UAW:”Unionized staff at the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York plan to begin a strike on October 5 if a fair contract agreement cannot be reached with the museum’s leadership.”https://t.co/OtPp7aKRrS— UAW (@UAW) September 30, 2026UNITE HERE:ON STRIKE since September 04, @EncoreResortBH. Don’t cross the picket line. The workers who deliver Encore’s five-star service are on strike for a fair contract. While we’re out, stay out. @unitehere26 pic.twitter.com/TiJQmzpdRb— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) September 28, 2026United Association of Union Plumbers and Pipefitters:Today we honor the children who did not return home, commemorate the survivors of residential schools, and recognize the lasting effects of this painful history on Indigenous communities in Canada. #NDTR pic.twitter.com/e7imx1i2yX— United Association (@UAPipeTrades) September 30, 2026United Food and Commercial Workers:Over 2,000 members. 60 ShopRite locations. 1 STRONG CONTRACT!Together, @ufcwlocal152 members won higher starting rates, annual wage increases to close compression gaps, fully protected health benefits, and expanded paid time off.🔗 https://t.co/vp8oPfRs4W pic.twitter.com/PdA8KfKAjI— UFCW (@UFCW) September 30, 2026United Steelworkers:Enemy of Labor 11: Charles SchwabSchwab ran Bethlehem Steel and fought to keep workers from organizing. In 1910, thousands of workers struck over long hours, low wages and forced Sunday work. Schwab refused to negotiate, state police were brought in, & 1 worker was killed. pic.twitter.com/57ctFep30S— United Steelworkers Union (@steelworkers) September 30, 2026Writers Guild of America East:Join the WGAE Nonfiction Organizing Committee on Wednesday, September 30 to cowork, discuss industry updates, our organizing plan and what concrete steps you can take to help! RSVP: wgaea.st/NFOC-HH[image or embed]— Writers Guild of America East (@wgaeast.bsky.social) September 25, 2026 at 12:56 PM
Kenneth Quinnell
Wed, 09/30/2026 – 11:58
Hispanic Heritage Month Profiles: Teresa D’Asaro
Hispanic Heritage Month Profiles: Teresa D’Asaro
Throughout Hispanic Heritage Month, the AFL-CIO will be profiling leaders and activists to spotlight the diverse contributions Hispanics and Latinos have made to the labor movement. Today’s profile features Teresa D’Asaro of the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW).
Teresa D’Asaro is a fourth-generation union leader with more than 30 years of advocating for Arizona’s working families. Advancing from a rank-and-file member to key leadership roles in UFCW Local 99, she has spearheaded organizing, built labor alliances and championed women’s leadership. Now retired, D’Asaro has served as the Coalition of Labor Union Women (CLUW) Greater Western Arizona chapter’s treasurer, UFCW national’s CLUW alternate vice president and Southland Insurance’s community outreach director.
Kenneth Quinnell
Wed, 09/30/2026 – 10:15
Tags:
Hispanic Heritage Month
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Cleveland Orchestra Musicians Reach New Agreement, Ending Strike
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Cleveland Orchestra Musicians Reach New Agreement, Ending 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 the Cleveland Federation of Musicians, American Federation of Musicians (AFM) Local 4 who perform as part of the Cleveland Orchestra, have ratified a new collective bargaining agreement after a three-day work stoppage.The previous contract covering musicians expired at the end of August, and this year’s strike was the first time members have been on the picket line for more than one day since 1980. Highlights of the new deal include annual 5% wage increases, a collective voice in the audition process, improved safety protocols and more.“We want to thank the thousands of supporters who wrote testimonials, signed our petitions, and carried us through a sometimes painful, but very purposeful effort to ensure this great Cleveland Orchestra will continue to attract and retain the finest musicians in the world,” said Elayna Duitman, Negotiating Committee chair and a violinist in the Orchestra for 16 years. “We were able to agree to a fair compensation package, a voice in our auditions and improved safety for our musicians. We look forward to a wonderful new season of music for the Cleveland Orchestra and our audiences.”
Kenneth Quinnell
Wed, 09/30/2026 – 10:11
A Fight for Our Unions: In the States Roundup
A Fight for Our 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:📋 Did you know that if you are eligible to vote and get a PFD, you are registered to vote? Check your status and make sure your information is accurate at https://t.co/rwXOZfD50b pic.twitter.com/HtjEZczrMF— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) September 25, 2026California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:Tonight, @CaliforniaLabor spoke to over 800,000 California voters about the pressing need to pass Proposition 40, the one-time tax billionaires, and save our healthcare!Huge thanks to Congressman @RoKhanna, AFA-CWA President @FlyingWithSara, and the hundreds of union members… pic.twitter.com/NFC2T4Ocem— California Federation of Labor Unions (@CaliforniaLabor) September 24, 2026Connecticut AFL-CIO:IBEW Locals 420 & 457 donated $40,000 to Connecticut Children’s Medical Center earlier this month!Over 20 years of fundraising for Connecticut Children’s, IBEW has now donated more than $420,000 to help support children and families across Connecticut. @IBEW pic.twitter.com/MJ9s8nlGbE— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) September 22, 2026Florida AFL-CIO:DEADLINE APPROACHING: There is ONE WEEK left in the state of Florida to make sure that you are registered to vote! Make sure there is nothing between you and your ballot come election day by taking 5 minutes to check or update your voter registration at https://t.co/0dhSRYMFg2 pic.twitter.com/OTq3YgITBj— Florida AFL-CIO (@FLAFLCIO) September 28, 2026Illinois AFL-CIO:Early voting and vote by mail starts today in select locations around the state! Whether you vote early, vote by mail, or vote on Election Day, make your plan to vote today!https://t.co/cKHnDkmegn— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) September 24, 2026Iowa Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO:Ashley Hinson called the Iran war “out of sight, out of mind” for Iowans.It’s not out of sight at the pump. It’s not out of mind for our military families.She voted SIX times to keep it going!Ashley Hinson didn’t find her conscious on the Iran war. She found a poll! pic.twitter.com/6p4Tg0vtCR— Iowa AFL-CIO ✊ (@IowaAFLCIO) September 23, 2026Maine AFL-CIO:Central Maine Nurses in Lewiston filed to form a union to fight for patient safety after the hospital was bought out by for-profit company Prime.Prime illegally fired 15 nurse leaders in retaliation.Last night 91% of RNs voted to unionize! When we fight, WE WIN! pic.twitter.com/kyRBOvjCPN— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) September 25, 2026Minnesota AFL-CIO:Working people need a pro-union Governor. With a 97% voting record from the AFL-CIO, we know Amy Klobuchar is the best choice to lead our state. #mnvotes #BetterInAUnion pic.twitter.com/Jl3RWGLnkX— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) September 28, 2026Missouri AFL-CIO:Vote Yes on 6 to Protect Your Vote (and to stop politicians from gerrymandering maps just so they can cling to power!) pic.twitter.com/lxNronZqr4— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) September 23, 2026Nevada State AFL-CIO:Northern Nevada showing up and showing out to canvass for our labor-endorsed candidates this weekend!Union members hit the pavement to talk with voters, build support for pro-labor candidates, and put our movement’s priorities front and center. pic.twitter.com/BQyB4xYomT— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) September 29, 2026New Hampshire AFL-CIO:The @NHAFLCIO Executive Council has unanimously voted to endorse @stefanyshaheen, the Democratic nominee for Congress, in the race for New Hampshire’s First Congressional District. We know that when our members need her help, she will always answer the call.#NHPolitics pic.twitter.com/sLWMID9DqT— New Hampshire AFL-CIO (@NHAFLCIO) September 28, 2026New York State AFL-CIO:Last night union members had the opportunity to hear from labor’s pick for NY-21, Blake Gendebien. It was a great conversation, you can watch it here: https://t.co/ic6Fvz1sEM— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) September 25, 2026Oregon Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO:@SEIULocal503 STRIKE OFF FOR HIGHER ED!! Congratulations to SEIU Local 503 on securing a tentative agreement! https://t.co/ajYcTxH8Xi— Oregon Labor Federation, AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) September 28, 2026Pennsylvania AFL-CIO:It’s not just an election, it’s a fight for our unions. View the full list of our endorsed candidates: https://t.co/7YKY2uV2EYOCT 19 – Voter registration deadlinehttps://t.co/w0OgsCpKN3OCT 27 – Last day to apply for a mail ballot.https://t.co/s8SFq8wgOY pic.twitter.com/Hq0jE8d58N— PA AFL-CIO (@PaAFL_CIO) September 24, 2026Texas AFL-CIO:We’re proud to stand with our brothers and sisters from TSEU Local 6186!Together, we’ll take back our power from the corrupt politicians and billionaires that want to tell us what we can say, teach, and do. pic.twitter.com/V4mJlmWbpS— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) September 29, 2026Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:Congratulations to SEIU Wisconsin, recipients of the 2026 WI AFL-CIO Organizing Award! Over 850 nurses at St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison won union rights in June. Union strong. pic.twitter.com/dVStONDXJp— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) September 29, 2026
Kenneth Quinnell
Tue, 09/29/2026 – 11:25
Hispanic Heritage Month Profiles: Mark Gallego
Hispanic Heritage Month Profiles: Mark Gallego
Throughout Hispanic Heritage Month, the AFL-CIO will be profiling leaders and activists to spotlight the diverse contributions Hispanics and Latinos have made to the labor movement. Today’s profile features Mark Gallego of the United Association of Union Plumbers and Pipefitters (UA).
Mark Gallego has been the business agent and a labor leader for UA Local 469 for 12 years. Gallego represented UA on the national Labor Council for Latin American Advancement’s executive board for three years and is involved in the Local 469 PAC to elect candidates who support labor.
Kenneth Quinnell
Tue, 09/29/2026 – 10:32
Tags:
Hispanic Heritage Month
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: AutoZone Workers Vote to Join UAW, First for Nationwide Chain
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: AutoZone Workers Vote to Join UAW, First for Nationwide Chain
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 an AutoZone location in White Plains, New York, have made history by voting to join UAW Local 259, making them the first store at the country’s largest auto parts retailer to organize for a fair contract.Staff cited concerns around low pay and unfair working conditions as core motivators for joining together for a stronger voice on the job. LaborLab—a nonprofit labor rights watchdog organization—and workers identified at least 11 corporate executives, along with several regional and district managers, who appeared at the store leading up to the vote.“It’s like hitting a fly with a mallet,” said Mike DiGuiseppe, Local 259’s vice president. “They’ve had more corporate executive union-busters in the store than workers.”“Our goal is to get compensation, job security, just more things that closely reflect the value that we know that we bring to the company. We’re not getting close to what we’re worth,” said David Valencia, who works at the AutoZone store. “There is no bargaining when you’re alone. They’re only going to bargain when you’re together. So we don’t have a choice. Either we’re going to live in poverty and not be able to pay our bills, or we’re going to do this.”
Kenneth Quinnell
Tue, 09/29/2026 – 10:12
Tags:
Organizing