Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Workers at Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest Join IAM 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.

Staff at the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest in Nevada and eastern California have successfully joined the IAM Union (IAM), a powerful victory amidst the Trump administration’s continuing attacks on the labor rights of federal workers.

The campaign was a true grassroots effort—origins that are reflected in the workers’ unanimous vote to form a union—supported with advice from their colleagues at the National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE-IAM). Now that they’ve voted, these workers are immediately covered by NFFE-IAM’s Master Agreement with the U.S. Forest Service.

“We are extremely motivated to bring union representation to more and more federal workers in the National Parks and Forest Service,” said IAM Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett. “Federal workers have been under attack by the current administration, and we are determined to bring the security of a union contract to the dedicated people who maintain and conserve our nation’s protected lands.”

Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 03/06/2026 - 09:46

Women's History Month Profiles: Linda Ward-Smith

For Women's History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making women's history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Linda Ward-Smith of AFGE.

Linda Ward-Smith is president of AFGE Local 1224. She is dedicated and driven, committed to making a meaningful impact in her community. She is a registered nurse caring for veterans and a proud union member. Through hard work, dedication and resilience, she continues to inspire others while honoring the legacy of those who have paved the way. 

Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 03/06/2026 - 09:53

Tags: Women's History Month