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.

‘Standing Up for Our Workers’: U.S. Unions Raise Thousands for Victims of ICE Crackdown: “Labor unions are fundraising for workers affected by the surge of immigration enforcement across the U.S., providing legal and financial support to members affected by the brutal crackdown. Nearly $20,000 was raised for a homecare worker, Maria, a member of Service Employees International Union Local 503 in Salem, Oregon, and a U.S. citizen who was attacked by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents on 29 January.”

DePaul University Labor Education Center Trains Union Leaders: “DePaul University’s Labor Education Center (LEC), led by Director Jessica Cook-Qurayshi, is strengthening the labor movement through practical training for union members, tailored workshops for local unions and a growing set of youth programs that introduce collective bargaining, workplace rights and organizing skills to high school and college students. In today’s conversation on the America’s Work Force Union Podcast, Cook-Qurayshi described how the LEC operates as a small, self-funded unit with an outsized footprint across Chicagoland and beyond, delivering leadership certificates, advanced bargaining education and intergenerational programming designed to build long-term worker power.”

AFGE Seeks Emergency Order to Block Further FEMA Cuts: “A group of unions and nonprofits is seeking an emergency court order to stop the Federal Emergency Management Agency from restarting staff layoffs. Lawyers for the American Federation of Government Employees and other plaintiffs requested a preliminary injunction today to prohibit FEMA from continuing cuts that had started in early 2026, but were temporarily paused due to a damaging winter storm that swept through the United States in late January. The latest court action comes after AFGE and the other plaintiffs in the case first challenged the FEMA cuts in court late last month as part of a broader lawsuit challenging the Trump administration’s governmentwide workforce cuts. AFGE argues the FEMA cuts violate the law and inhibit the ability of the agency to respond to disasters.”

Kentucky Unions Push Lawmakers to Repeal Right-to-Work Law: “Kentucky labor unions are mobilizing their members as they prepare to lobby state lawmakers to repeal the state's right-to-work law, which they say has weakened unions and workers' rights. ‘It cut the legs out from under working families,’ Representative Adrielle Camuel said of Kentucky's right-to-work law.”

America Isn’t Ready for What AI Will Do to Jobs: “Shuler told me that the AFL-CIO will keep pressing national elected officials for a worker-focused AI agenda, but that ‘this game is not gonna be played at the federal level as much as it will be at the state level.’ More than 1,000 AI bills are bubbling up in statehouses. Of course, the AI money will be there, too; Leading the Future has already announced plans to focus its efforts on New York, California, Illinois, and Ohio.”

Taylor Rehmet Shows Working-Class Politics Can Win Everywhere: “‘No one is coming to save labor, so we might as well do it ourselves,’ said Taylor Rehmet in a video shared by the Texas AFL-CIO. This one sentence sums up Rehmet’s campaign for state senate in Texas’s Ninth District, which covers a large swath of Fort Worth and its northern suburbs. Rehmet, a union machinist and the president of his local, International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Local 776B, ditched the Democratic Party’s typical political playbook to laser-focus on material issues affecting all working-class people.”

IAFF-Backed Railway Safety Act Aims to Expand HazMat Training: “General President Edward Kelly commented: ‘Millions of Americans live and work along HazMat railways. We need to protect them. And, ultimately, we need to protect every firefighter who responds to a derailment.’ The remarks came at a press conference marking the third anniversary of the Norfolk Southern derailment in East Palestine, Ohio. Speakers included bill co-leads Reps. Chris Deluzio, D-Pa.; John Garamendi, D-Calif.; and Mike Rulli, R-Ohio, along with co-sponsor Rep. Mike Lawler, R-N.Y.; House Rail Subcommittee Ranking Member Rep. Dina Titus, D-Nev.; Pittston Mayor Michael Lombardo; Altoona Mayor Matt Pacifico. Alongside labor leaders, including Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen President Mike Baldwin and Transportation Trades Department, AFL-CIO President Greg Regan.”

For Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently actively making Black 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 Yasmine Lee of the Bricklayers (BAC).

“Bricklayers and Allied Crafts Local 2 in Michigan represents everything Black History Month stands for—unity, resilience, and progress,” said member Yasmine Lee. “My union has supported me not only as a worker, but as a person, ensuring fair wages, respect, and opportunity. I am proud to be part of a legacy that continues to open doors and create change.”

Tags: Black History Month

This is the next post in our series that will take a deeper look at each of our affiliates. The series will run weekly until we've covered all 64 of our affiliates. Next up is the International Union of Police Associations (IUPA).

Name of Union: International Union of Police Associations

Mission: The International Union of Police Associations is the only union chartered exclusively for law enforcement and law enforcement support personnel. While IUPA’s officers, active and retired law enforcement officers, fight to improve the lives of their brothers and sisters in law enforcement, IUPA works to improve legislation that protects and affects public safety officers, as well as representing the needs of law enforcement officers and support personnel, whether that be for better equipment, more staff or a fair wage.

Current Leadership of Union: Sam A. Cabral serves as international president of the IUPA. He began his law enforcement career in Defiance, Ohio, in 1965 and retired in 1991. In 1988, he was elected international vice president of the IUPA. He was then elected international secretary-treasurer two years later and was first elected international president of the IUPA in 1995.

Michael V. Crivello currently serves as the international secretary-treasurer of the IUPA, a position he was elected to in 2022. He served with the Milwaukee Police Department from 1991 through 2019.

Members Work As: Rank-and-file law enforcement officers, EMS workers, corrections officers and law enforcement support personnel.

Industries Represented: Law enforcement and related support fields.

History: IUPA began in 1954 when the union was known as the National Conference of Police Associations (NCPA). The NCPA was developed in response to the evolving demands of the law enforcement profession, especially collective bargaining and benefits.

In 1966, the NCPA amended its by-laws to allow a number of local Canadian police associations to affiliate and became known as the International Conference of Police Associations (ICPA).

It soon became apparent that police officers were in need of support and services that only a strong union with a united labor front could provide. In response to this need, the International Union of Police Associations (IUPA) was created.

On Feb. 20, 1979, the IUPA was granted a charter as the first union that gave the law enforcement community an independent voice within the organized labor movement. This partnership was created to enhance the working and personal lives of law enforcement professionals across the country. That partnership has not changed.

Current Campaigns/Community Efforts: The IUPA helps members and their families with higher education costs through scholarships and school discount programs, as well as other benefits for financial, entertainment, health, home services and other needs. You can learn about these benefits on the IUPA Member Benefits page.

In 2009, the IUPA founded the Law Enforcement Officers Relief Fund (LEORF), and in 2011, the IUPA launched the first annual LEORF Golf Classic to increase support for LEORF. LEORF was created by the IUPA to assist officers or surviving spouses of officers who experience serious personal injuries on the job, as well as line-of-duty deaths. Too often, benefits from insurance and other sources take too long for those in need to receive them. LEORF aims to provide immediate assistance to get officers and their families through the first trying weeks following these disasters.

The IUPA publishes IUPA NewsWatch, Police Union News, IUPA Briefing Room, Photos of the Week and LEORF News to keep its members well-informed and to highlight members and the critical work they do. Current important news includes the upcoming 23rd IUPA Convention and Expo, where law enforcement personnel from across the nation will come together at the Paris Las Vegas Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas from Aug. 25 to 29, 2026. Details about the event and how to show support can be found on the convention website. 

Learn More: Website, X

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 Union (UFCW) members at a Half Price Books storefront in Kansas City, Missouri, have secured their first collective bargaining agreement—the first location in the state to do so.

Staff first joined Half Price Books Workers United back in November 2023, motivated in part by the termination of a co-worker who was recovering from cancer. They won the election unanimously and became the 11th store nationwide to organize for a better workplace. The new contract establishes major victories like a grievance procedure, increased sick days and fair raises.

Four-year staff member William Theberge said of the contract victory: “It is a seat at the table, making sure we can hold the company as mutually accountable as they claim we can. A lot of that is making sure we’re holding them to their own mission statement and standard of treatment of their employees.”

For Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently actively making Black 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 Will Leathers of the American Federation of Musicians (AFM).

Will Leathers serves as the principal trumpet for both the Nashville Symphony and the Santa Fe Opera Orchestra, achievements he reached while still a student at The Juilliard School. Celebrated for his technical mastery and lyrical playing, he balances his elite professional appointments with his continued studies at Juilliard. A dedicated member of AFM Local 257 (Nashville), he advocates for union protection to ensure equal rights and fair treatment for orchestral and freelance musicians.

Tags: Black History Month

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 Vancouver’s historic Rio Theatre overwhelmingly ratified their first collective bargaining agreement with the Arts and Cultural Workers Union, Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local B778. More than 93% of workers voted in favor of ratifying the new contract, which covers workers across nine classifications, including: tech/front of house manager, security, office manager, promo trailers, admin, bar manager, tech, supervisor and concessions.

The new contract delivers substantial improvements for workers, including wage increases of at least 6% across the board, with 3% annual raises thereafter; a four-hour minimum call with penalties for late cancellation; health benefits; additional paid leave; and organizational changes designed to promote fairness.

“It’s been inspiring to see the Rio workers organize not just for themselves and their coworkers, but out of genuine love for their work at this historic neighborhood gem,” said Hania Ilahi, vice president of Local B778. “They can now continue their work there with stronger protections and benefits, demonstrating that arts and culture workers everywhere deserve fair working conditions and should not have to sacrifice their well-being simply because of a love for their craft. This is a major win, not just for the Rio workers, but for arts and culture workers everywhere!”

For Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently actively making Black 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 Sheila Mott of the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW).

UFCW Local 99 member Sheila Mott shows up for her co-workers at Safeway 1255 in Tucson, Arizona, every single day. Whether welcoming a new hire or standing beside a long-term employee, she goes out of her way to listen, support and promote fairness. Her commitment to solidarity, dignity and collective strength is a powerful example of union values in action.

Tags: Black History Month

Our latest roundup of worker wins includes numerous examples of working people organizing, bargaining and mobilizing for a better life.

Indianapolis Baristas Win Union and Powerful Contract: Nearly eight months after Quills Coffee baristas in Louisville, Kentucky, unanimously ratified their first contract, their counterparts at the chain’s location in Indianapolis have followed suit, joining Service Employees International Union (SEIU) 32BJ and securing exciting new workplace benefits. Quills’ workers in the Louisville area first joined SEIU during the summer of 2024, securing voluntary recognition from the company’s CEO who stated he was “grateful for the baristas and their positive approach to organizing.” Now that Indiana-based staff also have formed a union, they have access to a powerful contract that guarantees an $11.50 minimum hourly wage ($13.50 per hour for lead baristas), four weeks of paid family leave, fair scheduling, neutrality for any future union organizing at other Quills locations and more. “My coworkers are the most important reason I wanted to unionize,” said lead barista Fern Thompson. “As much as we enjoy making coffee, it’s about the connection and bond we have with each other, and I believe that all of my coworkers deserve a union. We’re proud and excited to set an example for other baristas in the city.”

IRC Workers Ratify First Contract Covering Hundreds of Staff Nationwide: Office and Professional Employees (OPEIU) members at 13 International Rescue Committee (IRC) offices around the country ratified their first collective bargaining agreement this week. This is a powerful win for the nearly 700 member-strong IRC Workers Unite (IRCWU) bargaining unit who have dedicated their careers to helping vulnerable people across the globe access health care, education and economic opportunities. "Winning our contract was an incredibly emotional experience,” said Jodi Camino, a school success caseworker in Atlanta. “Experiencing that win in community really reminded me that in addition to the contract articles that will make a really concrete difference in my financial security, working conditions and quality of life, our biggest win is we now have a voice, community and collective power.” “Through these contract wins, IRC workers are now on the path to earning what they deserve for their invaluable service to refugees, those living through war and all who believe in universal human dignity. This win is a testament to the organizing prowess and bargaining chops of the OPEIU members at IRC, and the wide-ranging gains unions can secure for nonprofit workers,” said Tyler Turner, OPEIU president.

USW Secures New Agreement with Libbey Glass, Ending Strike: United Steelworkers (USW) Locals 59M and 700T members have ratified their new collective bargaining agreements with Libbey Glass in Toledo, Ohio. This victory officially ends the monthslong unfair labor practice strike against the company. Members of USW Locals 59M, 700T and 65T, along with IAM Union Local 1297, first walked off the job in August 2025 when management continued to demand concessions even after the bargaining units made major sacrifices in previous contracts to save Libbey Glass from bankruptcy. Workers stood strong and walked the picket line throughout a difficult winter, securing powerful wage increases and successfully fighting back against concession demands. “We took care of each other. We had donations from other locals. We had support from the international union. All of that got us through,” said Dave Nelson, president of Local 59M. “Our motto from day one was ‘one day longer, one day stronger.’” “We stuck together,” Local 700T President Joyce Marland said. “The members showed that they believe in each other.”

Education Week Union Ratifies First Contract: Staff at Education Week—who are represented by the Washington-Baltimore News Guild (WBNG), The NewsGuild-CWA Local 32035—have overwhelmingly voted to ratify their first union contract. Newsroom workers at the nonprofit media organization first went public with their organizing effort in August 2024. Under the name Education Week Union, the wall-to-wall bargaining unit secured several critical wins in this agreement, including a brand-new minimum salary, yearly wage increases, more paid time off and more. “This agreement is the result of our members’ voices being heard and respected,” said Kelli Jaszcar, EdWeek’s front office administrator who now serves as unit secretary. “Through solidarity, transparency, and persistence, our members secured an agreement that honors our labor and proudly lays the groundwork for our future at EdWeek.”

UAW Reaches Tentative Agreement with Volkswagen in Chattanooga: UAW members who work at a Volkswagen plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee, have officially reached a tentative agreement (TA) on their first union contract. These members first made history in 2024 when they became the first Southern autoworkers outside the Big Three to join the UAW. And now, after a credible strike threat, they’ve proven what’s possible when workers band together. Highlights of the TA include 20% across-the-board wage increases, grievance rights, improved health care, better job security protections and more. “For years, Chattanooga workers were told to settle for less while Volkswagen made record profits. So, the workers stood together and won their union—and now they’ve secured a life-changing first agreement,” said UAW President Shawn Fain. “This deal proves what happens when autoworkers stand up and demand their fair share. People said Southern autoworkers could never form a union or win a union contract. Volkswagen workers in Chattanooga said, ‘Watch this.’” “This contract is proof that if you stand up and stick together, you can win a better life,” said Kelcey Smith, a worker in the paint department. “No matter where you live, or where you work, autoworkers deserve a union contract, whether at the Big Three or Volkswagen, from Detroit to Chattanooga. Volkswagen workers are showing the whole country what’s possible.”

Tags: Organizing

For Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently actively making Black 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 Da’Laine Simpson of AFGE.

Da’Laine Simpson embodies leadership and community spirit as president of AFGE Local 2004, president of AFGE Council 169 and vice president of the Harrisburg Region Central Labor Council. As the founder and CEO of Bro2Go Inc., a nonprofit in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, he is dedicated to uplifting ex-offenders and at-risk youth. Committed to service and advocacy, Simpson stands up for those who cannot, believing that the time for action is now.

Tags: Black History Month

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:

Immigration resources are available in the member portal. Equity members can now access a comprehensive guide on immigration rights, including a printable rights card and bystander intervention tips. Log in for more - https://members.actorsequity.org/resources/know-your-immigration-rights&...

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— Actors' Equity Association (@actorsequity.bsky.social) February 10, 2026 at 5:25 PM

AFGE:

Same scheme, different name, still illegal.

Schedule Policy/Career (aka Schedule F) will fill our government with flunkies and loyalists, and fire career civil servants.

We have successfully challenged the admin’s efforts to undermine the civil service & will continue to do so. https://t.co/IZLrT4Fomt

— AFGE (@AFGENational) February 5, 2026

AFSCME:

HAPPENING NOW: AFSCME Retiree joins pro-worker members of Congress to urge an investigation into DOGE’s misuse of Social Security data. pic.twitter.com/kOOHLygXt7

— AFSCME (@AFSCME) February 11, 2026

Alliance for Retired Americans: