Category: Labor Movement

Educated workers see unions as advocates

Educated workers see unions as advocates

Future of labor might be white-collar

  • By Alana Semuels Los Angeles Times
  • Posted May 19, 2013 at 3 a.m., updated May 19, 2013 at 12:20 a.m.

The next wave of union protesters isn’t blue collar.

It’s lawyers, paralegals, secretaries, helicopter pilots, judges, insurance agents and podiatrists.

These white-collar workers are not exactly the picture of the labor movement, but they are becoming a more essential part of it as they turn to unions for help in a tough economy as bosses try to squeeze out more profits.

“Employers have been downsizing, asking employees to take on larger roles, making them work more hours,” said Nicole Korkolis, spokeswoman for the Office and Professional Employees International Union. “People are feeling like they need an advocate.” Continue reading “Educated workers see unions as advocates”

In Late Boost, Unions Chipped In More for Convention

Washington Wire

September 6, 2012, 1:35 PM

By Alicia Mundy,Associated Press

Delegates hold up signs during union leaders’ speeches at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Wednesday, Sept. 5, 2012. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)

Labor unions gave new donations to the Democratic Party for its national convention just as delegates were convening for the event, people with knowledge of the matter say.

The contributions marked something of a change for organized labor, which had scaled back its donations compared to prior years. That was due in part to the Democrats’ decision to hold the event in North Carolina, whose right-work-laws are bitterly opposed by unions. Continue reading “In Late Boost, Unions Chipped In More for Convention”

Brazile: What have unions done for us?

 

Brazile: What have unions done for us?

Author: By Donna Brazile CNN Contributor
Published On: Sep 04 2012 06:58:48 AM CDT

 

 (CNN) –

What have unions done for us lately? Other than give us Labor Day, and a three-day weekend to start football season.

The answers may surprise you.

Unions have long been part of our nation’s history, fighting for better pay, safer working conditions, health care and retirement benefits, education and civic participation. Unions have brought diverse voices together, and their struggles have elevated the working conditions, the standard of living and the recognition of not just their members, but of all who labor.

Unions played a major role in ending the sweatshops and child labor so common at the beginning of the 20th century. The International Ladies’ Garment Workers’ Union, or ILGWU, was one of the first unions to have a primarily female membership. And in the aftermath of the tragic Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire in 1911, in which more than 100 mostly young immigrant women were killed, the ILGWU was at the forefront of reforming working conditions and pushing for comprehensive safety and workers’ compensation laws. Continue reading “Brazile: What have unions done for us?”

Chicago Federation of Labor – Watch This Video!

Chicago Federation of Labor – Watch This Video

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

This Labor Day, working men and women are doing more than enjoying the unofficial end of summer with our family and friends. We remember the true meaning of this national holiday, honoring the strength and spirit of the labor movement and working people.

The last decade has been a difficult one for America’s middle class. But we aren’t giving up. Today, we are launching a video that recognizes the role working men and women play in our communities–from the things they do at work to the things they do in our neighborhoods.

You can watch the video here. Continue reading “Chicago Federation of Labor – Watch This Video!”

AFL-CIO: All Labor Has Dignity

Share Thanks for Labor Day

Before you hit your Labor Day parade or cookout, I wanted to recognize the work you do every day to make this country great—and take the chance to say “thank you.”

It’s America’s workers who built this country, make it run and keep it going.

Take a moment to celebrate Labor Day—watch my video “thank you” and share it with your friends on Facebook, Twitter and through email. 

There has been a lot of talk lately about the future of our country and who should get credit for building America. Frankly, I believe we all deserve credit. Everyone’s work is critical to keeping our country moving. We depend on each other and we should recognize the dignity of all work. Continue reading “AFL-CIO: All Labor Has Dignity”

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