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.

The Electrical Workers (IBEW) announced that the union had reached a new five-year tentative agreement (TA) on Tuesday with rail-based freight transportation company CSX and Norfolk Southern, one of the country’s largest freight railroad operators.

The TA covers approximately 4,000 workers and is subject to a ratification vote by membership. Highlights include an 18.77% compound wage increase over the lifetime of the deal, improvements to vacation benefits, and a new option for workers to carry over a certain amount of unused paid sick days.

“This new agreement is a historic step forward for rail workers across the nation, and I’m proud of the efforts of IBEW railroad members in helping secure a fair deal,” said IBEW International President Kenneth Cooper. “Our workers help move America, and this agreement recognizes the value they bring to the rail industry.”

Bargaining a good contract is a union’s top priority.

Based on our research of candidate proposals and positions, we’ve identified significant differences between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump that would strongly impact unions. 

We hope that you will share this important information from the AFL-CIO—America’s largest federation of labor unions—with your co-workers, friends, family and neighbors:

• Kamala Harris stands with union members and says that America’s union workers are the best in the world. She has stood on picket lines with us even before she was vice president. Her policies have helped bring new workers into unions, saved union members’ pensions, created training programs that give young people opportunities for good union jobs and increased wages, and provided better benefits in union contracts. Donald Trump, on the other hand, is pushing proposals that big corporations want like cuts to wages, overtime pay, retirement, health and safety, and more.
   
• The labor chapter in Trump’s Project 2025 Agenda, written by the chief counsel of Trump’s transition team and the head of Trump’s policy team at the Department of Labor, would eliminate public sector unions, make it illegal for companies to voluntarily recognize unions, let corporations union-bust in secret and take away unions mid-contract, eliminate the Biden–Harris rules requiring project labor agreements and Davis–Bacon prevailing wages on federally funded construction projects, and more.

If Donald Trump takes office, we’re deeply concerned about pro-corporate policies that will make it harder to win gains in our next contracts, and stack the deck in favor of the CEOs.

Trump and some politicians are already thinking about how to make it more difficult for workers to join a union and put our wages, pensions, health care and retirement security at risk. And just this week, he insulted UAW members by saying that making cars is so easy, a child could do it.

The bottom line is this—there’s a big difference between the presidential candidates on these issues and the result of this year’s election could have major consequences for our unions.

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

IBEW Reaches Tentative Agreement with CSX, Norfolk Southern: The Electrical Workers (IBEW) announced that the union had reached a new five-year tentative agreement (TA) on Tuesday with rail-based freight transportation company CSX and Norfolk Southern, one of the country’s largest freight railroad operators. The TA covers approximately 4,000 workers and is subject to a ratification vote by membership. Highlights include an 18.77% compound wage increase over the lifetime of the deal, improvements to vacation benefits, and a new option for workers to carry over a certain amount of unused paid sick days. “This new agreement is a historic step forward for rail workers across the nation, and I’m proud of the efforts of IBEW railroad members in helping secure a fair deal,” said IBEW International President Kenneth Cooper. “Our workers help move America, and this agreement recognizes the value they bring to the rail industry.”

Austin Journalists to Vote on New Contract After 21-Hour Mediation with Gannett: After multiple years of bargaining and a final 21-hour marathon session, members of the Austin NewsGuild who work for the Austin American-Statesman in Texas have finally reached a TA with parent company Gannett. The unit is part of The NewsGuild-CWA and includes journalists and other newsroom staff who won their union election in February 2021. Members overcame Gannett’s union-busting and delay tactics and are now celebrating a major milestone in their organizing efforts. The deal includes improved minimum salaries, general wage increases, frozen health insurance premiums, job protections and more. “We are thrilled to be able to turn the page on this part of our Guild history,” said Nicole Villalpando, chair of the Austin NewsGuild. “Our members worked incredibly hard to make this happen. We went without raises, picketed, social media shamed the company, went on strike with 100% participation twice, and phone zapped the CEO to make this happen.”

Machinists Members Vote to Accept Latest Textron Aviation Contract Proposal: Members of Machinists (IAM) Local 774 voted to ratify a new five-year agreement on Sunday with Textron Aviation, successfully ending a monthlong strike. The agreement covers nearly 5,000 members across three campuses in Wichita, Kansas, and secures victories in major areas of concern for workers. Highlights of the deal include a 31% overall increase in wages throughout the lifetime of the contract, new insurance premium increase caps at 3%, longevity bonuses and much more. “Our skilled members in Wichita know what it takes to make Textron Aviation products just like they know how to stick together for what’s right,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “The dedication it takes to stand up with your Brothers and Sisters to fight for what you deserve is admirable, and the entire IAM is beyond proud of Local 774.” “Our members know what matters to them and used their voices as the essential tool to gain more,” said IAM Southern Territory General Vice President Craig Martin. “Textron Aviation is a powerhouse in today’s market and needed to offer more. I am proud of our members in Wichita—they stood strong and won for their families and communities.”

‘Drunk Shakespeare’ Cast and Crew Ratify First Contract: Actors’ Equity Association (Equity) and Brass Jar Productions have ratified the first union contract covering actors, stage managers, servers, bartenders and bar managers who are part of the popular show “Drunk Shakespeare” and its seasonal companion production “Drunk Dracula.” In “Drunk Shakespeare” performances, one of five actors has five shots of whiskey and then attempts to perform a major role in a Shakespearean play. The new agreement establishes important practices around workplace safety, job definitions, terms of employment and job security so performers and crew can continue to entertain audiences around the country. Drunk Shakespeare United members will now accrue health benefits, vacation and sick leave—with many workers seeing wage increases and better income stability. “Huzzah! Seeing Drunk Shakespeare United ratify their first union contract is thrilling!” said Equity President Brooke Shields. “The spirit of collaboration our members brought to the table was met in kind by their employer, and while the process wasn’t always easy, it was definitely worthwhile.”

Omni Hotel Workers in Boston Ratify Historic New Contract: UNITE HERE Local 26 members unanimously voted to ratify a new contract on Sunday after months of negotiations and about a week with nearly 700 workers on strike at Omni Hotels in Boston. Members who work at the Omni Boston Seaport and Omni Parker House hotels began an open-ended strike last week to secure fair wages, better benefits and improved job security. And now, hospitality workers are celebrating a historic deal that includes $10-an-hour wage increases over the lifetime of the contract and more. This victory comes as thousands of other UNITE HERE members continue fighting for the same goals across several major cities. “For me, the most important aspect of this new contract is that everyone will get meaningful raises,” said James “Smitty” Smith, a banquet server at the Omni Parker House, in a UNITE HERE press release. “I’m glad that Omni came to the table in good faith, and we finally reached an agreement. But we’re not done until we’re all done, in Boston and everywhere else.”

Montana Cannabis Workers Make History by Joining UFCW: Cannabis workers at two Honey Sour dispensaries in uptown and downtown Butte, Montana, late last month voted to join United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 1889. This election victory marks the first time Montana cannabis workers have successfully organized since the legalization of cannabis in the state three years ago. Staff initially reached out to the union with concerns about workplace safety issues—including mold and lack of running water—job security, customer well-being and more. Now members are looking forward to bargaining with Honey Sour to secure the fair working conditions that reflect their dedication and expertise. “I am incredibly proud to announce this historic achievement for us cannabis workers in Montana,” said Milo Vukovich, a Honey Sour dispensary worker. “Through today’s victory, we hope that we can pave the way for all cannabis workers in the state to receive the representation and benefits they deserve. This milestone shows just how powerful we are when we stand together, regardless of the industry.”

United Health Professionals of New Mexico Members Ratify Contract: Members of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) affiliate, United Health Professionals of New Mexico (UHPNM), ratified a contract Sunday with the University of New Mexico Sandoval Regional Medical Center (UNM SRMC). The union includes nurses and other health professionals who work at UNM SRMC and have been fighting for better working conditions and improved patient safety. Highlights of the agreement include wins like wage increases, job protections, the establishment of a labor-management committee that will look into safe staffing ratios and other ways to improve patient healing conditions, and more. “This contract represents basic respect for hospital professionals who work tirelessly for their patients,” said AFT President Randi Weingarten. “It shouldn’t have been so hard to get to this place, and the workers’ tenacity and the public’s support for their current or future caregivers moved the needle and resulted in this contract. We need hospitals to work collaboratively with their front-line workers and respect their input. When that happens, workers and patients are better off.”

Asheville, North Carolina, Nurses Reach New Contract Agreement: This week, National Nurses United (NNU)–represented registered nurses (RNs) at Mission Hospital in Asheville, North Carolina, voted to ratify a new three-year contract, winning measures to improve patient safety and nurse retention. This victory comes just over a month after RNs voted to authorize a strike against the HCA facility. Highlights of the new contract include substantial wage increases that will improve nurse recruitment and retention, a new program that will enhance staffing practices to ensure that nurses can take their meal and rest breaks during their shifts, new measures that will ensure nurses are “floated” (temporarily reassigned) to units similar to their normal specialty and more. “We are excited to have this new contract and ensure that our hospital is on a path to taking the best possible care of our patients and community,” said Huns Brown, an RN working in Mission Hospital’s pulmonary progressive care unit. “The devastation Hurricane Helene brought to our region underscores how Mission being the best possible version of itself is more important than ever.”

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:

Congratulations to the workers of Drunk Shakespeare United, who have unanimously ratified their first Equity contract! pic.twitter.com/oZ376D9XQw

— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) October 21, 2024

AFGE:

.@AFGEPrezKelley getting a crowd of union members fired up at today's @NCStateAFLCIO Labor GOTV canvass in Raleigh, NC! pic.twitter.com/jFaP5PCyPT

— AFGE (@AFGENational) October 19, 2024

AFSCME:

Following months of negotiations and solidarity actions, Washington state workers who are members of @wfsec28 are celebrating a strong new contract. The two-year agreement includes strong wage raises and expanded leave. https://t.co/Vmc0Xu11Yl

— AFSCME (@AFSCME) October 21, 2024

Alliance for Retired Americans:

Today a conservative think tank released an alarming report revealing that Donald Trump will wreak havoc on Social Security over the next decade if he’s re-elected. Read our

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.

UNITE HERE Local 26 members unanimously voted to ratify a new contract on Sunday after months of negotiations and about a week with nearly 700 workers on strike at Omni Hotels in Boston.

Members who work at the Omni Boston Seaport and Omni Parker House hotels began an open-ended strike last week to secure fair wages, better benefits and improved job security. And now, hospitality workers are celebrating a historic deal that includes $10-an-hour wage increases over the lifetime of the contract and more. This victory comes as thousands of other UNITE HERE members continue fighting for the same goals across several major cities.

“For me, the most important aspect of this new contract is that everyone will get meaningful raises,” said James “Smitty” Smith, a banquet server at the Omni Parker House, in a UNITE HERE press release. “I’m glad that Omni came to the table in good faith, and we finally reached an agreement. But we’re not done until we’re all done, in Boston and everywhere else.”

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.

The Communications Workers of America (CWA) ratified agreements with AT&T that cover some 23,000 employees across 11 states. Over the life of the four-year agreement, workers in the West will receive wage increases of at least 15% and those in the Southeast will get more than 19%. Wire technicians and utility operations professionals from the Southeast will receive an additional 3% wage boost under the bipartisan infrastructure law. More than 17,000 workers secured the increases after engaging in an unfair labor practice strike in August.

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 on X (formerly Twitter).

Alaska AFL-CIO:

Yesterday, President Joelle Hall participated in a forum on Ballot Measure One at the RDC breakfast. This historic initiative will:

✅ Increase the Minimum Wage to $15 Over 3 Years
✅ Guarantee Earned Sick Leave for Alaska's Workers 
✅ Improve Worker Freedom on the Job pic.twitter.com/7Mjwd9d32S

— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) October 18, 2024

Arizona AFL-CIO:

This morning we joined our fellow #UnionSiblings for a Labor Rally and canvass launch at Arizona Education Assiciation in support of Kamala Harris and Tim Walz!

— Arizona AFL-CIO (@ArizonaAFLCIO) October 12, 2024

California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:

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.

Biden Cancels $4.5 Billion in Student Debt for Over 60,000 Public Service Workers: “President Joe Biden on Thursday said an additional $4.5 billion in student debt is being canceled for about 60,000 teachers, nurses, firefighters and others, bringing the number of public service workers to get relief during his administration to more than 1 million. More than $73 billion in loans have been forgiven under a 2007 initiative, according to an Education Department news release. Borrowers eligible for the latest round of relief should learn of their debt being cleared in coming weeks.”

Boston Teachers Push for Better Wages and Working Conditions with More ‘Walk-Ins': “Boston teachers held ‘walk-ins’ outside five schools across the district Thursday morning as they continue rallying support amid ongoing contract negotiations. The Boston Teachers Union is fighting for better pay for teachers and paraprofessionals. They’re also asking for what they’re calling ‘inclusion done right’—they say the district needs to properly staff the inclusion model used in classrooms for students with special needs and English Language Learners. The union, whose contract expired on Aug. 31 right before the start of the new school year, has been in negotiations with Boston Public Schools since February. Right now, 8,000 educators are without a contract in the district.”

Harris, Culinary Local 226 Are Mobilizing Their Efforts for Election Day Push in Nevada: “Before her nationally televised town hall in Las Vegas last week, Vice President Kamala Harris took part in a more private meeting. The Democratic presidential nominee made a visit to the headquarters of Culinary Union Local 226 and Bartenders Union Local 165, taking photos with members and speaking about her proposals, including to tackle housing costs and price gouging. It was also an opportunity for her to remind the powerful union of their shared interests in continuing their work this fall to elect her to the White House.”

Grad Students Are Unionizing in Droves. Can Postdocs Lead the Next Wave?: “When Marjorie Levinstein, 35, began working as a postdoctoral fellow at the National Institute on Drug Abuse in 2021, she knew from the outset that she wanted to advocate for her fellow postdocs. At the University of Washington, where she had received her PhD in neuroscience, she saw firsthand ‘how the union really fought to improve our lives.’ But the unionization movement at her new employer, the National Institutes of Health (NIH), didn’t have that infrastructure. In July 2021, it amounted to ‘five people on a Zoom call,’ Levinstein told The Nation. Now, she’s fighting for her union’s first contract in an over-5,000-strong collective bargaining unit, which won its vote by a nearly 98% margin last year.”

Petitions for Union Representation Doubled Under Biden’s Presidency, First Increase Since 1970s: “There has been a doubling of petitions by workers to have union representation during President Joe Biden’s administration, according to figures released Tuesday by the National Labor Relations Board. There were 3,286 petitions filed with the government in fiscal 2024, up from 1,638 in 2021. This marks the first increase in unionization petitions during a presidential term since Gerald Ford’s administration, which ended 48 years ago. During Trump’s presidency, union petitions declined 22%. President Joe Biden said in a statement obtained by The Associated Press that the increase showed that his administration has done more for workers than his predecessor, Donald Trump, the current Republican nominee who is vying to return to the White House in November’s election.”

More Black and Latina Women Are Leading Unions—and Transforming How They Work: “‘Momentum for Black and Latina women rising into labor union leadership has picked up in the last five years. But the work began long before that by ‘our foremothers who laid this foundation and have been pushing and kicking those doors open for decades,’ according to Liz Shuler, who in June 2022 became the first woman to lead the AFL-CIO, a federation of 60 national and international labor unions. ‘The #MeToo movement, I think, has really emboldened women across the board, including in labor, to say, “You know what? I’m not going to be sitting on the sidelines,’” Shuler said. The pandemic also put a spotlight on essential workers such as nurses, service workers, and care workers, who are predominantly women and minorities.”

Hotel Workers Campaign Among Latino Voters in Arizona: “‘Hello, housekeeping!’ she called, breaking into a laugh upon realizing her mistake. The 57-year-old is a member of UNITE HERE, the hospitality union, and had taken a leave of absence from her job at a nearby Hilton to go door-to-door to keep Arizona blue. ‘I like to step back and wait, so they think I’ve left,’ she said. ‘Then they open the door and here I am.’”

'A True Hero': Pay Equity Crusader Lilly Ledbetter Dies at 86: “Labor unions and women's advocacy groups on Monday paid tribute to Lilly Ledbetter, the former Goodyear employee whose fight for equal pay made it all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court and Congress, after her death at the age of 86—with economic justice advocates hailing Ledbetter as ‘an icon.’ ‘Lilly Ledbetter simply wanted to be paid the same as her male Goodyear co-workers,’ said the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) on social media. But to workers who have benefited from the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009, added the union, ‘she was a true hero.’”

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.

Cannabis workers at two Honey Sour dispensaries in uptown and downtown Butte, Montana, late last month voted to join United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 1889.

This election victory marks the first time Montana cannabis workers have successfully organized since the legalization of cannabis in the state three years ago. Staff initially reached out to the union with concerns about workplace safety issues—including mold and lack of running water—job security, customer well-being and more. Now members are looking forward to bargaining with Honey Sour to secure the fair working conditions that reflect their dedication and expertise.

“I am incredibly proud to announce this historic achievement for us cannabis workers in Montana,” said Milo Vukovich, a Honey Sour dispensary worker. “Through today’s victory, we hope that we can pave the way for all cannabis workers in the state to receive the representation and benefits they deserve. This milestone shows just how powerful we are when we stand together, regardless of the industry.”

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.

Nearly 200 employees from the technical bargaining unit at St. Charles Bend ratified a union contract with 100% of workers voting in favor of the deal. These health care workers are members of the Oregon Federation of Nurses and Health Professionals (AFT Local 5017). The contract includes raises, cost of living adjustments, a predictable pay scale that determines raises according to years of tenure and experience, improved language governing time off, reformed disciplinary procedures, and language to protect workers if St. Charles is ever sold to a new hospital system.

“The ratification of our new contract is a positive step forward, one that will serve our community through better recruitment and retention of highly skilled health providers,” said Tyler Ecklund, a nuclear medicine technologist and member of the union’s bargaining team.