Working People Respond to Executive Order Attacking Federal Worker Collective Bargaining Rights
The Trump administration issued a new executive order stripping collective bargaining and union rights from workers across the federal government. Advocates for working people condemned the move.
AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler issued the following statement:
Straight out of Project 2025, this executive order is the very definition of union-busting. It strips the fundamental right to unionize and collectively bargain from workers across the federal government at more than 30 agencies. The workers who make sure our food is safe to eat, care for our veterans, protect us from public health emergencies and much more will no longer have a voice on the job or the ability to organize with their coworkers for better conditions at work so they can efficiently provide the services the public relies upon. It’s clear that this order is punishment for unions who are leading the fight against the administration’s illegal actions in court—and a blatant attempt to silence us. To every single American who cares about the fundamental freedom of all workers, now is the time to be even louder. The labor movement is not about to let Trump and an unelected billionaire destroy what we’ve fought for generations to build. We will fight this outrageous attack on our members with every fiber of our collective being.
Straight out of Project 2025, this executive order is the very definition of union-busting. It strips the fundamental right to unionize and collectively bargain from workers across the federal government at more than 30 agencies. The workers who make sure our food is safe to eat, care for our veterans, protect us from public health emergencies and much more will no longer have a voice on the job or the ability to organize with their coworkers for better conditions at work so they can efficiently provide the services the public relies upon. It’s clear that this order is punishment for unions who are leading the fight against the administration’s illegal actions in court—and a blatant attempt to silence us.
To every single American who cares about the fundamental freedom of all workers, now is the time to be even louder. The labor movement is not about to let Trump and an unelected billionaire destroy what we’ve fought for generations to build. We will fight this outrageous attack on our members with every fiber of our collective being.
AFGE National President Everett Kelley:
President Trump’s latest executive order is a disgraceful and retaliatory attack on the rights of hundreds of thousands of patriotic American civil servants—nearly one-third of whom are veterans—simply because they are members of a union that stands up to his harmful policies.This administration’s bullying tactics represent a clear threat not just to federal employees and their unions, but to every American who values democracy and the freedoms of speech and association. Trump’s threat to unions and working people across America is clear: fall in line or else.These threats will not work. Americans will not be intimidated or silenced. AFGE isn’t going anywhere. Our members have bravely served this nation, often putting themselves in harm’s way, and they deserve far better than this blatant attempt at political punishment.AFGE is preparing immediate legal action and will fight relentlessly to protect our rights, our members, and all working Americans from these unprecedented attacks.
President Trump’s latest executive order is a disgraceful and retaliatory attack on the rights of hundreds of thousands of patriotic American civil servants—nearly one-third of whom are veterans—simply because they are members of a union that stands up to his harmful policies.
This administration’s bullying tactics represent a clear threat not just to federal employees and their unions, but to every American who values democracy and the freedoms of speech and association. Trump’s threat to unions and working people across America is clear: fall in line or else.
These threats will not work. Americans will not be intimidated or silenced. AFGE isn’t going anywhere. Our members have bravely served this nation, often putting themselves in harm’s way, and they deserve far better than this blatant attempt at political punishment.
AFGE is preparing immediate legal action and will fight relentlessly to protect our rights, our members, and all working Americans from these unprecedented attacks.
Take Action with AFGE: Call Your Member of Congress
AFSCME President Lee Saunders:
President Trump’s attempt to unlawfully eliminate the right to collectively bargain for hundreds of thousands of federal workers is blatant retribution. Federal workers—including thousands of AFSCME members—are the lifeblood of their communities. They protect our clean drinking water and food supply, care for veterans, support American farmers, administer Medicaid and Social Security and so much more. This attack is meant to silence their voices, so Elon Musk and his minions can shred the services that working people depend on the federal government to do. The billionaires running this administration have proven that they are willing to bulldoze anything that stands in their way to enact their anti-worker, extremist agenda—even if it harms our communities. In just two months, they have completed one-third of the 900-page Project 2025 agenda, a plan that robs working people of their power to benefit the ultra-wealthy. AFSCME’s 1.4 million members are prepared to fight to protect federal workers’ voice on the job.
Actors’ Equity Association Executive Director Al Vincent Jr.:
Donald Trump has now taken direct aim at working people by attacking the collective bargaining rights of our federal workforce in what’s being called the largest union-busting act of our lifetime, if not in history.The workers targeted by this executive order are not only the indispensable pulse that keeps our country running, they are our friends, neighbors and colleagues. They’ve been on the front line of protecting our democracy, and their lawsuits against this administration have placed them in the crosshairs of political retribution.This attack on workers is at its heart an escalation of the president’s attacks on free speech. These attacks aren’t going to stop federal workers, just as they aren’t going to stop Equity members or any other Americans who believe in the democratic values that our country—and our unions—are founded on. Equity joins workers across the labor movement in solidarity against this abuse of power, and we will continue to stand together to protect the rights of workers.
Donald Trump has now taken direct aim at working people by attacking the collective bargaining rights of our federal workforce in what’s being called the largest union-busting act of our lifetime, if not in history.
The workers targeted by this executive order are not only the indispensable pulse that keeps our country running, they are our friends, neighbors and colleagues. They’ve been on the front line of protecting our democracy, and their lawsuits against this administration have placed them in the crosshairs of political retribution.
This attack on workers is at its heart an escalation of the president’s attacks on free speech. These attacks aren’t going to stop federal workers, just as they aren’t going to stop Equity members or any other Americans who believe in the democratic values that our country—and our unions—are founded on. Equity joins workers across the labor movement in solidarity against this abuse of power, and we will continue to stand together to protect the rights of workers.
American Federation of Teachers (AFT) President Randi Weingarten:
This illegal executive order, ripped from the pages of Project 2025, is blatant retaliation for federal workers standing up to Elon Musk’s chaos and harm on behalf of all Americans.The text of the order is plain: This has nothing to do with security and everything to do with silencing those who disagree with the government. After workers sued and spoke out about the unlawful evisceration of entire agencies, the Trump administration responded by trying to eliminate their collective bargaining rights. Both the courts and the public have agreed with our calls for justice. These are the workers, a third of them veterans, who keep the country running. They include educators who teach the children of deployed service members at some of the best schools in the world, run by the Department of Defense. They include nurses in VA hospitals who stand up for patients who save people’s lives. And they include workers who safeguard the food supply and preserve Medicaid and Medicare.The administration is trying to send a message that unless you please the president, unions will not be tolerated. But the labor movement’s job is to act on behalf of the people: those we serve and those we represent. We’re both a fundamental check and balance and a canary in the coal mine. Our job is to fight for a dignified life for working people. When a president does that, we applaud, and when a president harms Americans, we resist.And that’s what the AFT’s 1.8 million members will continue to do: fight in the streets, in the courts and in Congress, to uphold both the law and the right of all workers to advocate for their collective interests and America’s future.
This illegal executive order, ripped from the pages of Project 2025, is blatant retaliation for federal workers standing up to Elon Musk’s chaos and harm on behalf of all Americans.
The text of the order is plain: This has nothing to do with security and everything to do with silencing those who disagree with the government. After workers sued and spoke out about the unlawful evisceration of entire agencies, the Trump administration responded by trying to eliminate their collective bargaining rights. Both the courts and the public have agreed with our calls for justice.
These are the workers, a third of them veterans, who keep the country running. They include educators who teach the children of deployed service members at some of the best schools in the world, run by the Department of Defense. They include nurses in VA hospitals who stand up for patients who save people’s lives. And they include workers who safeguard the food supply and preserve Medicaid and Medicare.
The administration is trying to send a message that unless you please the president, unions will not be tolerated. But the labor movement’s job is to act on behalf of the people: those we serve and those we represent. We’re both a fundamental check and balance and a canary in the coal mine. Our job is to fight for a dignified life for working people. When a president does that, we applaud, and when a president harms Americans, we resist.
And that’s what the AFT’s 1.8 million members will continue to do: fight in the streets, in the courts and in Congress, to uphold both the law and the right of all workers to advocate for their collective interests and America’s future.
American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA) President Ned Hanlon:
It has been a challenging week for labor, marked by the dismantling of FMCS, the troubling nomination of Crystal Carey as NLRB General Counsel, and now another transparently egregious attempt to undermine union rights.The performing arts have always been a place for collaboration, creativity, and shared purpose, and at the heart of this is the fundamental right of workers to come together and advocate for fair treatment and mutual respect. Now, the collective bargaining rights of federal workers are under threat by the current administration’s alarming efforts to eliminate their fundamental right to unionize and improve working conditions, which are essential for both workers and the critical services they provide to all Americans.This is not just an attack on federal employees but on the broader labor movement and the principles of equity and democracy that we hold dear. For those of us in the performing arts, where unionized workforces provide stability in an otherwise unstable industry, we fully grasp what’s at stake. Silencing federal workers is just another step toward silencing all workers. AGMA stands in total solidarity with all unionized federal workers facing these challenges. We join our sibling unions in doing everything in our power to ensure that the voices of working people, from the federal government to the arts, remain heard, protected, united, and informed.
It has been a challenging week for labor, marked by the dismantling of FMCS, the troubling nomination of Crystal Carey as NLRB General Counsel, and now another transparently egregious attempt to undermine union rights.
The performing arts have always been a place for collaboration, creativity, and shared purpose, and at the heart of this is the fundamental right of workers to come together and advocate for fair treatment and mutual respect. Now, the collective bargaining rights of federal workers are under threat by the current administration’s alarming efforts to eliminate their fundamental right to unionize and improve working conditions, which are essential for both workers and the critical services they provide to all Americans.
This is not just an attack on federal employees but on the broader labor movement and the principles of equity and democracy that we hold dear. For those of us in the performing arts, where unionized workforces provide stability in an otherwise unstable industry, we fully grasp what’s at stake. Silencing federal workers is just another step toward silencing all workers.
AGMA stands in total solidarity with all unionized federal workers facing these challenges. We join our sibling unions in doing everything in our power to ensure that the voices of working people, from the federal government to the arts, remain heard, protected, united, and informed.
American Postal Workers Union (APWU) President Mark Dimondstein:
Workers and their unions are under attack with a new executive order issued by President Trump stripping the union rights of nearly a million federal workers. Trump’s executive order abolishes existing union contracts, eliminates collective bargaining rights, orders agencies to stop processing grievances, and prohibits payroll union dues collection.Wrapped in the bogus guise of “national security concerns,” this is the most serious attack on unionized workers in this country in at least a generation.The President of the United States claimed during the recent election to be a friend of working people. No “friend” of working people would take action to destroy, rather than uplift, unions and workers’ rights.This executive order is part of an ongoing assault on all workers, and our First Amendment rights to freedom of speech and association. Make no mistake, postal workers will not be spared from this Administration and their billionaire benefactors’ war on workers.These dictatorial actions, with no respect for the law, come right out of [Adolf] Hitler and the Nazi party’s playbook. Shortly after coming to power in 1933, the Nazis launched an assault on the independent trade union movement, dissolving unions, seizing union funds, and beating, imprisoning, and murdering union leaders.Working people and our unions must face the seriousness of these attacks with our weapons of solidarity and action. President Trump has made his intentions clear—he is out to destroy the labor movement. Now is the time for every worker to stand up and fight back!Our sisters and brothers at AFGE, the largest federal union, are urging every worker to take action today. Call your members of Congress at 817-904-8624 and urge them to stop this attack on working people. Digital actions are available at mobilize.us/afgeStay tuned for more actions and demonstrations to come.
Workers and their unions are under attack with a new executive order issued by President Trump stripping the union rights of nearly a million federal workers. Trump’s executive order abolishes existing union contracts, eliminates collective bargaining rights, orders agencies to stop processing grievances, and prohibits payroll union dues collection.
Wrapped in the bogus guise of “national security concerns,” this is the most serious attack on unionized workers in this country in at least a generation.
The President of the United States claimed during the recent election to be a friend of working people. No “friend” of working people would take action to destroy, rather than uplift, unions and workers’ rights.
This executive order is part of an ongoing assault on all workers, and our First Amendment rights to freedom of speech and association. Make no mistake, postal workers will not be spared from this Administration and their billionaire benefactors’ war on workers.
These dictatorial actions, with no respect for the law, come right out of [Adolf] Hitler and the Nazi party’s playbook. Shortly after coming to power in 1933, the Nazis launched an assault on the independent trade union movement, dissolving unions, seizing union funds, and beating, imprisoning, and murdering union leaders.
Working people and our unions must face the seriousness of these attacks with our weapons of solidarity and action. President Trump has made his intentions clear—he is out to destroy the labor movement. Now is the time for every worker to stand up and fight back!
Our sisters and brothers at AFGE, the largest federal union, are urging every worker to take action today. Call your members of Congress at 817-904-8624 and urge them to stop this attack on working people. Digital actions are available at mobilize.us/afge
Stay tuned for more actions and demonstrations to come.
Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA-CWA) International President Sara Nelson:
This is an illegal, retaliatory union busting attack on working people, pure and simple. Flight Attendants know our safety and security at work and at home rely on the dedicated federal workers targeted by this action, many of whom are our veterans. This order is designed to punish people who are standing up to this administration’s illegal funding cuts and firings, and to intimidate anyone who might stand up to their illegal actions in the future.Working people from all walks of life must fight back, now. If we allow this administration to tear up federal union contracts, fire federal workers who stand up for our legal rights and target federal unions and union activists, they won’t stop there. An injury to one is an injury to all. It is time for the labor movement and the American workforce to rise up for our rights and fight for our country—whatever it takes.
This is an illegal, retaliatory union busting attack on working people, pure and simple. Flight Attendants know our safety and security at work and at home rely on the dedicated federal workers targeted by this action, many of whom are our veterans. This order is designed to punish people who are standing up to this administration’s illegal funding cuts and firings, and to intimidate anyone who might stand up to their illegal actions in the future.
Working people from all walks of life must fight back, now. If we allow this administration to tear up federal union contracts, fire federal workers who stand up for our legal rights and target federal unions and union activists, they won’t stop there. An injury to one is an injury to all. It is time for the labor movement and the American workforce to rise up for our rights and fight for our country—whatever it takes.
Bricklayers (BAC):
The right to form labor unions and bargain collectively is the most basic right of working people. For over sixty years, through Republican and Democratic Administrations alike, the federal government has recognized that right, entering into countless collective bargaining agreements with hundreds of different unions representing millions of public servants.Unionized federal employees have helped put Americans on the moon, cared for victims of natural disasters, and kept vital public services running through some of the darkest [periods] in our nation’s history. At no time has their right to bargain over the conditions of their employment interfered with their mission. In fact, collective bargaining has served to resolve conflicts in a rapid and systemic manner—reducing litigation, improving federal retention, and boosting morale. In short, the professionalism and productivity of our government is due in no small part to the benefits of collective bargaining.“President Trump’s order to end collective bargaining rights for over one million federal employees will be challenged in the courts, and BAC trusts that justice will be done,” said BAC President Timothy Driscoll.“In the meantime, we stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters who go to work each day to ensure that our government works for us,” President Driscoll continued. “The right to join a union and bargain collectively is one shared by all workers, regardless of their employer—and BAC will fight alongside the rest of the labor movement to ensure that every working American has that right.”
The right to form labor unions and bargain collectively is the most basic right of working people. For over sixty years, through Republican and Democratic Administrations alike, the federal government has recognized that right, entering into countless collective bargaining agreements with hundreds of different unions representing millions of public servants.
Unionized federal employees have helped put Americans on the moon, cared for victims of natural disasters, and kept vital public services running through some of the darkest [periods] in our nation’s history. At no time has their right to bargain over the conditions of their employment interfered with their mission. In fact, collective bargaining has served to resolve conflicts in a rapid and systemic manner—reducing litigation, improving federal retention, and boosting morale. In short, the professionalism and productivity of our government is due in no small part to the benefits of collective bargaining.
“President Trump’s order to end collective bargaining rights for over one million federal employees will be challenged in the courts, and BAC trusts that justice will be done,” said BAC President Timothy Driscoll.
“In the meantime, we stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters who go to work each day to ensure that our government works for us,” President Driscoll continued. “The right to join a union and bargain collectively is one shared by all workers, regardless of their employer—and BAC will fight alongside the rest of the labor movement to ensure that every working American has that right.”
Communications Workers of America (CWA):
Last night, President Trump issued yet another illegal executive order targeted at workers’ freedom to form unions and bargain contracts. This time, he is trying to prevent workers at over 30 federal agencies from exercising their fundamental right to join together to improve their working conditions.That’s bad enough. But the executive order makes it clear that Donald Trump wants to go even further. He says he has specifically targeted these workers and their unions because they have filed grievances against him and members of his administration over illegal layoffs and other actions they have taken to violate union contracts and federal law.CWA is a fighting union. When our employers violate our collective bargaining agreements, when they refuse to bargain fair contracts, when they stand in the way of workers’ organizing to join our union, we use every tool we have to protect our rights. That is exactly what the federal workers are doing, and Donald Trump is attempting to punish them for it.We won’t back down. We won’t be silenced. Our solidarity is stronger than Donald Trump and the CEOs and billionaires who helped elect him. We will rally, we will march, and, if necessary, we will strike to ensure that every worker is able to join a union and collectively bargain to ensure a better future for themself and their family.
Last night, President Trump issued yet another illegal executive order targeted at workers’ freedom to form unions and bargain contracts. This time, he is trying to prevent workers at over 30 federal agencies from exercising their fundamental right to join together to improve their working conditions.
That’s bad enough. But the executive order makes it clear that Donald Trump wants to go even further. He says he has specifically targeted these workers and their unions because they have filed grievances against him and members of his administration over illegal layoffs and other actions they have taken to violate union contracts and federal law.
CWA is a fighting union. When our employers violate our collective bargaining agreements, when they refuse to bargain fair contracts, when they stand in the way of workers’ organizing to join our union, we use every tool we have to protect our rights. That is exactly what the federal workers are doing, and Donald Trump is attempting to punish them for it.
We won’t back down. We won’t be silenced. Our solidarity is stronger than Donald Trump and the CEOs and billionaires who helped elect him. We will rally, we will march, and, if necessary, we will strike to ensure that every worker is able to join a union and collectively bargain to ensure a better future for themself and their family.
International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE):
IFPTE condemns in the strongest possible terms the Trump Administration’s clearly illegal attempt to eliminate collective bargaining rights for hundreds of thousands of federal workers, including thousands of IFPTE-represented members. There is little doubt that this rogue action is in response to Labor’s successful efforts to block the other illegal EOs, presidential memos, and other directives from this administration to dismantle federal services. Make no mistake, IFPTE will join in coalition with the Labor movement in challenging this legally, legislatively, and at the grassroots levels.
Laborers (LIUNA) General President Brent Booker:
Late last night the Trump Administration issued an Executive Order that robs American workers of their basic rights.Trump ran on a platform of fighting for working Americans. Instead, with this Executive Order, the White House has stripped almost a million federal workers of their union rights and representation—merely for exercising those rights. This order is a blatant attack on the fundamental freedoms guaranteed to working Americans and an overt attempt to silence workers.LIUNA represents thousands of federal workers, many of whom are veterans who served this country in the military and have continued that service as federal civil servants. An attack on one of us is an attack on all—solidarity is at the very heart of our union and one of the main principles upon which we were founded.For nearly 125 years LIUNA has utilized collective bargaining to ensure good jobs for its members and we intend to continue this work even when the highest office in the land engages in the vile practice of union busting.LIUNA members stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters across the Labor Movement and we will rise up together to defend our rights.
Late last night the Trump Administration issued an Executive Order that robs American workers of their basic rights.
Trump ran on a platform of fighting for working Americans. Instead, with this Executive Order, the White House has stripped almost a million federal workers of their union rights and representation—merely for exercising those rights. This order is a blatant attack on the fundamental freedoms guaranteed to working Americans and an overt attempt to silence workers.
LIUNA represents thousands of federal workers, many of whom are veterans who served this country in the military and have continued that service as federal civil servants. An attack on one of us is an attack on all—solidarity is at the very heart of our union and one of the main principles upon which we were founded.
For nearly 125 years LIUNA has utilized collective bargaining to ensure good jobs for its members and we intend to continue this work even when the highest office in the land engages in the vile practice of union busting.
LIUNA members stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters across the Labor Movement and we will rise up together to defend our rights.
Machinists (IAM) and the National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE-IAM):
We are deeply alarmed by the Trump administration’s signing of an executive order to demolish the collective bargaining rights of hundreds of thousands of federal workers. This reckless action directly attacks workers’ having a voice in the workplace and on the core principles of respect and dignity.The Trump administration’s actions are an assault on the rights and job security for federal workers caring for our veterans, keeping our military ready, adjudicating passport applications, caring for our public lands, and performing countless other essential public services. This blatantly illegal move will create chaos and destroy our civil service system as we know it. We will fight this attack on our nation’s heroes and continue to uplift our dedicated public servants who keep our government running.
We are deeply alarmed by the Trump administration’s signing of an executive order to demolish the collective bargaining rights of hundreds of thousands of federal workers. This reckless action directly attacks workers’ having a voice in the workplace and on the core principles of respect and dignity.
The Trump administration’s actions are an assault on the rights and job security for federal workers caring for our veterans, keeping our military ready, adjudicating passport applications, caring for our public lands, and performing countless other essential public services. This blatantly illegal move will create chaos and destroy our civil service system as we know it. We will fight this attack on our nation’s heroes and continue to uplift our dedicated public servants who keep our government running.
National Nurses United (NNU):
Registered nurses are appalled by this latest executive order that seeks to strip federal employees, including 15,000 registered nurses with National Nurses United, of their protected union rights. As union nurses, we know this is union busting. Our nurses have been on the front lines, calling out this administration’s attempts to dismantle and privatize our VA system. This latest attempt is a brazen effort to intimidate and silence us.We will never abandon our patients, and we will continue to fight for the funding and safe staffing levels that our patients deserve. As nurses who care for our nation’s veterans, we know the VA is the best place for our patients to receive care, and study after study shows the VA provides far superior care to the private sector.As union nurses, we understand that collective bargaining rights are fundamental to carrying out our critical role as patient advocates. It is because of VA nurses’ ability to speak up about patient safety concerns through our union that our nation’s veterans receive the highest level of care. We know that unionized hospitals have better outcomes than non-unionized hospitals, as nurses and other staff are able to speak up about their concerns and hold management accountable. Veterans deserve nurses who are free to advocate for their care without fear of retaliation, discipline, or losing their jobs.Stripping bargaining rights for federal workers puts all worker protections in danger throughout the country. As members of National Nurses United, we contend that this executive order is a broad overreach of executive power and the union is exploring legal action.
Registered nurses are appalled by this latest executive order that seeks to strip federal employees, including 15,000 registered nurses with National Nurses United, of their protected union rights. As union nurses, we know this is union busting. Our nurses have been on the front lines, calling out this administration’s attempts to dismantle and privatize our VA system. This latest attempt is a brazen effort to intimidate and silence us.
We will never abandon our patients, and we will continue to fight for the funding and safe staffing levels that our patients deserve. As nurses who care for our nation’s veterans, we know the VA is the best place for our patients to receive care, and study after study shows the VA provides far superior care to the private sector.
As union nurses, we understand that collective bargaining rights are fundamental to carrying out our critical role as patient advocates. It is because of VA nurses’ ability to speak up about patient safety concerns through our union that our nation’s veterans receive the highest level of care. We know that unionized hospitals have better outcomes than non-unionized hospitals, as nurses and other staff are able to speak up about their concerns and hold management accountable. Veterans deserve nurses who are free to advocate for their care without fear of retaliation, discipline, or losing their jobs.
Stripping bargaining rights for federal workers puts all worker protections in danger throughout the country. As members of National Nurses United, we contend that this executive order is a broad overreach of executive power and the union is exploring legal action.
Office and Professional Employees (OPEIU) President Tyler Turner:
President Trump’s March 27 order to throw out collective bargaining requirements for more than 30 federal agencies, under the guise of “national security,” is an egregious attack on federal workers and the labor movement at large.The order’s intent is obvious: silence workers, force obedience and strip federal unions of the resources needed to fight back against this illegal and unjust action.OPEIU stands alongside our union siblings across the country in the fight against the Trump administration’s blatant attempts at union busting. We call on Congress to take the action necessary to stymie this unilateral undermining of workers’ rights in both the public and private sectors.
President Trump’s March 27 order to throw out collective bargaining requirements for more than 30 federal agencies, under the guise of “national security,” is an egregious attack on federal workers and the labor movement at large.
The order’s intent is obvious: silence workers, force obedience and strip federal unions of the resources needed to fight back against this illegal and unjust action.
OPEIU stands alongside our union siblings across the country in the fight against the Trump administration’s blatant attempts at union busting. We call on Congress to take the action necessary to stymie this unilateral undermining of workers’ rights in both the public and private sectors.
Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT) General President Jimmy Williams Jr.:
This may be the biggest attack on the Labor Movement in American history. Approximately 700,000 federal workers have been stripped of their right to collectively bargain. The people who make sure your food is safe to eat, care for veterans, and protect us from public health emergencies no longer have collective power and a voice at work.This is what we mean when we say the Trump administration is coming for unions, and they are not afraid to hide it.When union busting begins at the White House, it gives power to other bosses to do the same, and we can’t let that happen. Part of what made President Reagan’s 1981 attack on striking Air Traffic Controllers so devastating to our movement was our response. We cannot make the same mistake.If President Trump wants to continue his war on the working class with the support of his oligarch friends, then workers must fight back.
This may be the biggest attack on the Labor Movement in American history. Approximately 700,000 federal workers have been stripped of their right to collectively bargain. The people who make sure your food is safe to eat, care for veterans, and protect us from public health emergencies no longer have collective power and a voice at work.
This is what we mean when we say the Trump administration is coming for unions, and they are not afraid to hide it.
When union busting begins at the White House, it gives power to other bosses to do the same, and we can’t let that happen. Part of what made President Reagan’s 1981 attack on striking Air Traffic Controllers so devastating to our movement was our response. We cannot make the same mistake.
If President Trump wants to continue his war on the working class with the support of his oligarch friends, then workers must fight back.
Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union-UFCW (RWDSU-UFCW) President Stuart Appelbaum:
The RWDSU condemns the Trump administration’s effort to deny federal workers their rights to bargain collectively. These workers provide important benefits and services to all Americans; they need to be treated with dignity and respect—and that includes being able to have a collective voice about their working conditions and concerns. We strongly oppose President Trump’s blatant union busting and we call on everyone to stand with federal workers. Even though the Trump administration is coming for federal workers today, all workers are under threat by these actions—and we will not remain silent.
School Administrators (AFSA):
The American Federation of School Administrators (AFSA) is deeply concerned about the new executive order issued by President Donald Trump, which represents a direct attack on workers’ rights across the federal government. Straight out of Project 2025, this order embodies the very definition of union-busting. It strips federal employees of their fundamental right to unionize and collectively bargain, impacting more than 30 agencies and undermining the protections workers rely on to ensure their voices are heard on the job.This executive order dismantles the ability of federal workers—those who safeguard our food, care for veterans, protect public health, and perform countless other essential services—to organize for better conditions, fairer pay, and increased job security. It removes their voice from the workplace and prevents them from collaborating with their colleagues to improve their ability to serve the public effectively.The fight for collective bargaining at the federal level is the fight for all unions. When one union is under attack, all unions are under attack. This is not just an assault on federal workers—it is a direct challenge to the rights of every worker in this country. This is a fight for the collective strength of the labor movement, for the fundamental right to organize, and for the protection of working conditions that unions have fought for over generations.We will not allow Trump and his billionaire allies to destroy what generations of workers have fought tirelessly to build. The labor movement will not be silenced, and we will not stand idly by while our members are stripped of their fundamental rights.Now is the time for every American who believes in workers’ rights to stand louder than ever. Reach out to your congressional representative and tell them to support unions. We will not let this government dismantle the rights and protections that unions have secured over decades of hard work. Our fight has just begun.
The American Federation of School Administrators (AFSA) is deeply concerned about the new executive order issued by President Donald Trump, which represents a direct attack on workers’ rights across the federal government. Straight out of Project 2025, this order embodies the very definition of union-busting. It strips federal employees of their fundamental right to unionize and collectively bargain, impacting more than 30 agencies and undermining the protections workers rely on to ensure their voices are heard on the job.
This executive order dismantles the ability of federal workers—those who safeguard our food, care for veterans, protect public health, and perform countless other essential services—to organize for better conditions, fairer pay, and increased job security. It removes their voice from the workplace and prevents them from collaborating with their colleagues to improve their ability to serve the public effectively.
The fight for collective bargaining at the federal level is the fight for all unions. When one union is under attack, all unions are under attack. This is not just an assault on federal workers—it is a direct challenge to the rights of every worker in this country. This is a fight for the collective strength of the labor movement, for the fundamental right to organize, and for the protection of working conditions that unions have fought for over generations.
We will not allow Trump and his billionaire allies to destroy what generations of workers have fought tirelessly to build. The labor movement will not be silenced, and we will not stand idly by while our members are stripped of their fundamental rights.
Now is the time for every American who believes in workers’ rights to stand louder than ever. Reach out to your congressional representative and tell them to support unions. We will not let this government dismantle the rights and protections that unions have secured over decades of hard work. Our fight has just begun.
SEIU President April Verrett:
America’s public service workers don’t work for profits, politics, or for glory—they serve our nation. The President’s latest unlawful executive order attacking federal unions is a direct attack not just on federal employees, but on all workers who seek a collective voice to bargain for a better future—and on everyone who relies on the services that federal workers provide.SEIU’s 2 million members—including nearly 80,000 federal workers who are first responders and VA nurses, doctors, and hospital workers across the country—stand in solidarity with our union siblings at AFGE, AFSCME, NTEU and other unions. We will not let this administration’s union-busting tactics silence us or take away our rights, and we will not take orders from an unelected billionaire.Across America, working people have been joining together across race, standing up to bad bosses and demanding unions. Worker power is unstoppable.
America’s public service workers don’t work for profits, politics, or for glory—they serve our nation. The President’s latest unlawful executive order attacking federal unions is a direct attack not just on federal employees, but on all workers who seek a collective voice to bargain for a better future—and on everyone who relies on the services that federal workers provide.
SEIU’s 2 million members—including nearly 80,000 federal workers who are first responders and VA nurses, doctors, and hospital workers across the country—stand in solidarity with our union siblings at AFGE, AFSCME, NTEU and other unions. We will not let this administration’s union-busting tactics silence us or take away our rights, and we will not take orders from an unelected billionaire.
Across America, working people have been joining together across race, standing up to bad bosses and demanding unions. Worker power is unstoppable.
Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE):
The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) condemns the Trump administration’s executive order stripping ~700,000 federal workers of their right to join together and collectively bargain. This unfounded and politically motivated attack on workers and freedom of speech, freedom of contract, and freedom of association constitutes the most egregious attack on the labor movement in United States history.The Administration is attempting to silence the very workers who inspect our food, care for our veterans, and protect our communities. Why? Because as workers we have real power when we stand together, and the President knows it. It’s retaliation against unions for doing their legal duty: stand up and defend workers on the job, in court, and in Congress. These rights-stripping executive actions are a warning to every working person in this country: if you use your free speech to stand up for yourself, you’re next.The Administration’s actions are the very definition of union-busting and we’ve seen it before. In 2004, then–reality TV host Donald Trump crossed an IATSE picket line in New York City during a labor dispute on The Apprentice. Today, we see nothing has changed. Once a union buster, always a union buster.Entertainment workers know what it means to fight for a voice on the job. Behind the scenes, IATSE members build the sets, light the stages, and so much more to make the magic happen. Like Federal workers, our work can feel invisible—and too often we are treated as expendable. That’s why solidarity matters. When one group of workers loses their rights, it weakens all of us. When one group is silenced, the entire labor movement must amplify its voice in unison.Unions aren’t going anywhere. A strong 70% supermajority of Americans approve of the labor movement, far higher than the approval of any politician in either political party. Now is the time to organize, mobilize, and fight back together.
The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) condemns the Trump administration’s executive order stripping ~700,000 federal workers of their right to join together and collectively bargain. This unfounded and politically motivated attack on workers and freedom of speech, freedom of contract, and freedom of association constitutes the most egregious attack on the labor movement in United States history.
The Administration is attempting to silence the very workers who inspect our food, care for our veterans, and protect our communities. Why? Because as workers we have real power when we stand together, and the President knows it. It’s retaliation against unions for doing their legal duty: stand up and defend workers on the job, in court, and in Congress. These rights-stripping executive actions are a warning to every working person in this country: if you use your free speech to stand up for yourself, you’re next.
The Administration’s actions are the very definition of union-busting and we’ve seen it before. In 2004, then–reality TV host Donald Trump crossed an IATSE picket line in New York City during a labor dispute on The Apprentice. Today, we see nothing has changed. Once a union buster, always a union buster.
Entertainment workers know what it means to fight for a voice on the job. Behind the scenes, IATSE members build the sets, light the stages, and so much more to make the magic happen. Like Federal workers, our work can feel invisible—and too often we are treated as expendable. That’s why solidarity matters. When one group of workers loses their rights, it weakens all of us. When one group is silenced, the entire labor movement must amplify its voice in unison.
Unions aren’t going anywhere. A strong 70% supermajority of Americans approve of the labor movement, far higher than the approval of any politician in either political party. Now is the time to organize, mobilize, and fight back together.
UAW President Shawn Fain:
Yesterday, President Trump signed an order that tramples on the union rights of more than a million federal workers, stripping them of their ability to negotiate over their working conditions. The 1 million members of the UAW stand with federal workers and their union, AFGE, against the attacks from the Trump administration.When I was 12, the Reagan administration famously busted the air traffic controllers’ union, PATCO, firing over 11,000 striking controllers and blacklisting them from federal jobs. It wasn’t just about PATCO—it sent a message to employers everywhere that it was open season on the working class. The labor movement failed to act in that moment, and we have been paying the price ever since.The actions the administration has taken today are many times worse than PATCO, affecting over 1 million federal employees across at least 18 agencies. These actions are not just an attack on unions—it’s an attack on free speech, on workers’ right to organize, on the very idea that people should have a say in their own jobs and futures. Our own members are affected by these actions, including hundreds of UAW members at National Institutes of Health.We have learned from the past and won’t sit back quietly while unions are dismantled. The labor movement is not about party politics. We aren’t Democrats or Republicans. We’re trade unionists. And when you come after workers, you’re going to find us standing shoulder to shoulder, ready to fight back.
Yesterday, President Trump signed an order that tramples on the union rights of more than a million federal workers, stripping them of their ability to negotiate over their working conditions. The 1 million members of the UAW stand with federal workers and their union, AFGE, against the attacks from the Trump administration.
When I was 12, the Reagan administration famously busted the air traffic controllers’ union, PATCO, firing over 11,000 striking controllers and blacklisting them from federal jobs. It wasn’t just about PATCO—it sent a message to employers everywhere that it was open season on the working class. The labor movement failed to act in that moment, and we have been paying the price ever since.
The actions the administration has taken today are many times worse than PATCO, affecting over 1 million federal employees across at least 18 agencies. These actions are not just an attack on unions—it’s an attack on free speech, on workers’ right to organize, on the very idea that people should have a say in their own jobs and futures. Our own members are affected by these actions, including hundreds of UAW members at National Institutes of Health.
We have learned from the past and won’t sit back quietly while unions are dismantled. The labor movement is not about party politics. We aren’t Democrats or Republicans. We’re trade unionists. And when you come after workers, you’re going to find us standing shoulder to shoulder, ready to fight back.
UNITE HERE:
Trump’s union-busting executive order targeting Federal workers’ collective bargaining rights is more than an attack on them—it’s an attack on us all and the government services that millions of Americans rely on. Together with AFL-CIO and all government workers, we will beat this.
United Association of Union Plumbers and Pipefitters (UA) General President Mark McManus:
The men and women of the United Association are on the front lines protecting our national security by building, maintaining, and modernizing our warships and submarines. With thousands of our members—many of them veterans themselves, working on the very ships they served on—at federal shipyards nationwide, we are proud to play an essential role preparing the world’s finest fighting force. This executive action not only breaks an agreement while it is still in effect, but it will directly impact our national security and undermine the fair wages and benefits these patriotic welders, pipefitters, and mechanics have earned.We will continue to stand up for our workers, and we will continue to do our part for our national security and for the brave men and women of our armed forces. We will not be deterred by this blatant anti-worker action. We will continue to do our jobs.
The men and women of the United Association are on the front lines protecting our national security by building, maintaining, and modernizing our warships and submarines. With thousands of our members—many of them veterans themselves, working on the very ships they served on—at federal shipyards nationwide, we are proud to play an essential role preparing the world’s finest fighting force. This executive action not only breaks an agreement while it is still in effect, but it will directly impact our national security and undermine the fair wages and benefits these patriotic welders, pipefitters, and mechanics have earned.
We will continue to stand up for our workers, and we will continue to do our part for our national security and for the brave men and women of our armed forces. We will not be deterred by this blatant anti-worker action. We will continue to do our jobs.
United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) International President Marc Perrone:
Collective bargaining is a fundamental right that ensures workers have safe workplaces, a voice on the job, and the ability to provide for their families. This executive order undermines those rights for hundreds of thousands of federal workers who have dedicated their careers to serving the American people.Weakening collective bargaining does not just hurt federal workers—it sets a dangerous and chilling precedent for all workers. At a time when too many families are struggling to make ends meet, we should be strengthening worker protections, not taking them away.The UFCW offers its full support for federal workers and their right to negotiate contracts that protect them on the job.
Collective bargaining is a fundamental right that ensures workers have safe workplaces, a voice on the job, and the ability to provide for their families. This executive order undermines those rights for hundreds of thousands of federal workers who have dedicated their careers to serving the American people.
Weakening collective bargaining does not just hurt federal workers—it sets a dangerous and chilling precedent for all workers. At a time when too many families are struggling to make ends meet, we should be strengthening worker protections, not taking them away.
The UFCW offers its full support for federal workers and their right to negotiate contracts that protect them on the job.
United Steelworkers (USW) International President David McCall:
Collective bargaining serves as one of the most powerful tools workers have to balance the scales, maintain a voice in the workplace and hold employers accountable.Today’s attack on federal workers and the effort to strip hundreds of thousands of them of their collective bargaining rights is nothing less than an attempt to silence workers who have devoted their lives to serving the public. Federal workers keep our communities safe, from providing vital resources to veterans to promoting public health. They also serve as stewards of our tax dollars, providing an essential stopgap between cronyism and sound government.By lashing out at dedicated public servants, this executive order undermines our federal institutions and invites true waste, fraud and abuse.
Collective bargaining serves as one of the most powerful tools workers have to balance the scales, maintain a voice in the workplace and hold employers accountable.
Today’s attack on federal workers and the effort to strip hundreds of thousands of them of their collective bargaining rights is nothing less than an attempt to silence workers who have devoted their lives to serving the public.
Federal workers keep our communities safe, from providing vital resources to veterans to promoting public health. They also serve as stewards of our tax dollars, providing an essential stopgap between cronyism and sound government.
By lashing out at dedicated public servants, this executive order undermines our federal institutions and invites true waste, fraud and abuse.
Utility Workers (UWUA) President James Slevin:
This executive order represents a threat to all working people, which we take very seriously. Silencing dedicated federal employees in essential roles undermines our national security and makes it more difficult to serve veterans, secure the border, and protect public health. Unions and the rights they provide improve federal workers’ ability to come up with solutions that best serve the American people.We stand in solidarity with our union brothers and sisters who are impacted by this disastrous executive order. We will not back down. We stand ready to fight against this unconstitutional overreach of executive authority.
This executive order represents a threat to all working people, which we take very seriously. Silencing dedicated federal employees in essential roles undermines our national security and makes it more difficult to serve veterans, secure the border, and protect public health. Unions and the rights they provide improve federal workers’ ability to come up with solutions that best serve the American people.
We stand in solidarity with our union brothers and sisters who are impacted by this disastrous executive order. We will not back down. We stand ready to fight against this unconstitutional overreach of executive authority.
Writers Guild of America East (WGAE) Executive Director Sam Wheeler:
Last night President Trump issued an unlawful Executive Order purporting to strip nearly two-thirds of the federal workforce of their collective bargaining rights. This illegal attack on roughly 700,000 federal workers and their unions is an assault on the entire labor movement and all American workers.It’s not surprising that the billionaires in the Trump Administration hate unions. Unions are a bulwark against tyranny, both in the workplace and in civil society. Right now, federal union members are defending the American people from Elon Musk’s reckless and unconstitutional dismantling of the federal government. And we know that these occurrences won’t stop with federal unions—the anti-union zealots in the Administration want every worker in America weak, isolated, disposable and at the mercy of their boss.The WGAE stands ready to join with our sibling unions and the broader labor movement to resist this attack on working people. We must stand together.
Last night President Trump issued an unlawful Executive Order purporting to strip nearly two-thirds of the federal workforce of their collective bargaining rights. This illegal attack on roughly 700,000 federal workers and their unions is an assault on the entire labor movement and all American workers.
It’s not surprising that the billionaires in the Trump Administration hate unions. Unions are a bulwark against tyranny, both in the workplace and in civil society. Right now, federal union members are defending the American people from Elon Musk’s reckless and unconstitutional dismantling of the federal government. And we know that these occurrences won’t stop with federal unions—the anti-union zealots in the Administration want every worker in America weak, isolated, disposable and at the mercy of their boss.
The WGAE stands ready to join with our sibling unions and the broader labor movement to resist this attack on working people. We must stand together.
Department for Professional Employees (DPE) President Jennifer Dorning:
President Trump’s executive order attempting to dismantle federal employees’ collective bargaining rights is a blatant attack on working people, including the members of multiple DPE affiliate unions. Professionals across the federal workforce join together in union to improve their workplaces and help deliver quality, reliable services to the American people. Our country is weakened by this unprecedented attempt at union-busting. President Trump’s actions demonstrate that he does not respect workers.
Metal Trades Department:
The Metal Trades Department, AFL-CIO strongly condemns President Trump’s illegal overnight executive order attempting to strip hundreds of thousands of federal employees of their collective bargaining rights.“Once again, President Trump has shown his disdain for the federal workers that keep our country safe—the true patriots. Rather than reward them for their hard work, Trump is attempting to take away their union rights. Regardless of what President Trump claims, this EO is not about national security, but instead about retaliating against labor unions that have continuously fought back and won on behalf of federal employees in court,” says Metal Trades Department President Ed Jones.“If President Trump truly cared about national security, he would have firmly addressed the recent lack of protocol surrounding his top national security officials’ use of an unsecured app to discuss and employ a war strike,” said Jones. “This faux concern for national security is nothing more than a veiled attempt to destroy further and erode our government.” The Metal Trades Department is working with its affiliated international and national unions, allied organizations, and Metal Trades Councils to determine next steps. We expect to join our union siblings in challenging this illegal action in court and standing up for the rights of our unionized federal workforce across the country.
The Metal Trades Department, AFL-CIO strongly condemns President Trump’s illegal overnight executive order attempting to strip hundreds of thousands of federal employees of their collective bargaining rights.
“Once again, President Trump has shown his disdain for the federal workers that keep our country safe—the true patriots. Rather than reward them for their hard work, Trump is attempting to take away their union rights. Regardless of what President Trump claims, this EO is not about national security, but instead about retaliating against labor unions that have continuously fought back and won on behalf of federal employees in court,” says Metal Trades Department President Ed Jones.
“If President Trump truly cared about national security, he would have firmly addressed the recent lack of protocol surrounding his top national security officials’ use of an unsecured app to discuss and employ a war strike,” said Jones. “This faux concern for national security is nothing more than a veiled attempt to destroy further and erode our government.”
The Metal Trades Department is working with its affiliated international and national unions, allied organizations, and Metal Trades Councils to determine next steps. We expect to join our union siblings in challenging this illegal action in court and standing up for the rights of our unionized federal workforce across the country.
North America’s Building Trades Unions (NABTU) President Sean McGarvey:
For over a century—through wars, depressions, good times and bad—collective bargaining has been the one thing working people could count on. This executive order is an unprecedented assault on worker freedom and a direct attack on those fundamental rights. Americans know that patriotic blue-collar workers built this country, not billionaires. They also know that one of the last best chances to make it to the middle class is collective bargaining. NABTU and our affiliated unions will stand shoulder to shoulder with the entire labor movement to fight this head-on—and we will not back down.
Transportation Trades Department (TTD) President Greg Regan and Secretary-Treasurer Shari Semelsberger:
As America’s largest transportation labor federation representing thousands of federal workers, we condemn this blatant attack on the bargaining rights of civil servants across more than two dozen federal agencies.Collective bargaining is an American ideal, built over generations, that allows working people to have a voice regarding their terms of employment. The federal workers who keep this country moving and keep Americans safe should not be used as pawns in a political game.Federal employees already abide by strict collective bargaining terms, and forfeit many of the rights that private sector employees maintain, including wage and benefit negotiations and the right to strike. The Trump Administration’s actions leave these workers powerless to employer retaliation and unfair labor practices.While today it is federal union workers who are harmed, there is no telling what this precedent could mean for every American worker. Labor is in this fight together, and we will stand strong behind the hundreds of thousands of public employees and veterans who serve our nation.
As America’s largest transportation labor federation representing thousands of federal workers, we condemn this blatant attack on the bargaining rights of civil servants across more than two dozen federal agencies.
Collective bargaining is an American ideal, built over generations, that allows working people to have a voice regarding their terms of employment. The federal workers who keep this country moving and keep Americans safe should not be used as pawns in a political game.
Federal employees already abide by strict collective bargaining terms, and forfeit many of the rights that private sector employees maintain, including wage and benefit negotiations and the right to strike. The Trump Administration’s actions leave these workers powerless to employer retaliation and unfair labor practices.
While today it is federal union workers who are harmed, there is no telling what this precedent could mean for every American worker. Labor is in this fight together, and we will stand strong behind the hundreds of thousands of public employees and veterans who serve our nation.
AFGE Council 238 President Marie Owens Powell:
The recent executive order from President Trump constitutes a shameful assault on the rights of federal workers. This action endangers not only federal employees and their unions, but also the fundamental right of all Americans to organize and collectively bargain for fair working conditions. The contract AFGE Council 238 ratified last year includes crucial provisions meant to ensure the EPA can maintain a strong workforce and safeguard the scientific principles that guide our work, allowing us to meet this climate emergency moment. These collective bargaining agreements help—not hurt—our ability to serve the American people. Our members fought hard for this contract, and we will not go down without a fight. For decades EPA employees have served this nation honorably, working to uphold environmental standards and protect the health of Americans, and they deserve far better than this blatant act of political reprisal. AFGE Council 238 will relentlessly fight to protect the rights of our members from these unprecedented attacks and the rights of the American people to live in a healthy environment.
The recent executive order from President Trump constitutes a shameful assault on the rights of federal workers. This action endangers not only federal employees and their unions, but also the fundamental right of all Americans to organize and collectively bargain for fair working conditions.
The contract AFGE Council 238 ratified last year includes crucial provisions meant to ensure the EPA can maintain a strong workforce and safeguard the scientific principles that guide our work, allowing us to meet this climate emergency moment. These collective bargaining agreements help—not hurt—our ability to serve the American people. Our members fought hard for this contract, and we will not go down without a fight.
For decades EPA employees have served this nation honorably, working to uphold environmental standards and protect the health of Americans, and they deserve far better than this blatant act of political reprisal. AFGE Council 238 will relentlessly fight to protect the rights of our members from these unprecedented attacks and the rights of the American people to live in a healthy environment.
Alaska State AFL-CIO President Joelle Hall:
Alaskans woke up today to discover President Trump issued an illegal executive order to strip the collective bargaining rights of over 700,000 federal civil servants—nurses, scientists, veterans, and others who keep our great nation running. This EO will have an outsized impact on Alaska, as our state has one of the highest densities of federal workers. Make no mistake; this is an all-out attack on working families and collective bargaining rights. The billionaire class is taking away the only tool workers have that’s proven to level the playing field. Countless Americans died to secure the right to form and belong to a union; we won’t stand idly by as it’s taken away with the stroke of a pen. Alaska’s labor movement stands ready to fight this illegal power grab at every turn. Pay close attention to those who chose not to speak out, for those who remain silent when the rights of workers are under attack do not stand on the side of workers. We call on Alaska’s congressional delegation to stand up to this illegal power grab and fight to protect the countless working families impacted by this executive order. And to every single Alaskan who cares about the fundamental freedom of all workers, now is the time to be even louder. Our solidarity as workers, Alaskans, and Americans has never been more essential.
Alaskans woke up today to discover President Trump issued an illegal executive order to strip the collective bargaining rights of over 700,000 federal civil servants—nurses, scientists, veterans, and others who keep our great nation running. This EO will have an outsized impact on Alaska, as our state has one of the highest densities of federal workers.
Make no mistake; this is an all-out attack on working families and collective bargaining rights. The billionaire class is taking away the only tool workers have that’s proven to level the playing field.
Countless Americans died to secure the right to form and belong to a union; we won’t stand idly by as it’s taken away with the stroke of a pen. Alaska’s labor movement stands ready to fight this illegal power grab at every turn.
Pay close attention to those who chose not to speak out, for those who remain silent when the rights of workers are under attack do not stand on the side of workers. We call on Alaska’s congressional delegation to stand up to this illegal power grab and fight to protect the countless working families impacted by this executive order.
And to every single Alaskan who cares about the fundamental freedom of all workers, now is the time to be even louder. Our solidarity as workers, Alaskans, and Americans has never been more essential.
California Labor Federation President Lorena Gonzalez:
Almost 700,000 federal workers have been illegally stripped of their collective bargaining rights literally overnight. These workers care for our veterans, keep our food and water safe, protect our public health and basically run our federal government.This union-busting is unprecedented. Working men and women in our country deserve better. We will not sit back and allow President Trump and his billionaire boys club to destroy our rights as workers and union members.
Almost 700,000 federal workers have been illegally stripped of their collective bargaining rights literally overnight. These workers care for our veterans, keep our food and water safe, protect our public health and basically run our federal government.
This union-busting is unprecedented. Working men and women in our country deserve better. We will not sit back and allow President Trump and his billionaire boys club to destroy our rights as workers and union members.
Long Island Federation of Labor President John R. Durso and Executive Director Ryan Stanton:
Last night with the stroke of a pen President Trump attempted to eliminate collective bargaining for nearly a million workers. He is anti-union, anti-worker, and anti-democracy.This is more than a policy dispute—it is a fundamental threat to the balance of power and the very principles that have safeguarded our republic since its founding. In his Farewell Address, President George Washington warned the nation of the dangers of political factions that place party loyalty above the public good, and of the creeping rise of despotism when checks and balances are ignored or dismantled.The labor movement has always been a bulwark against the abuse of power. An attack on one, is an attack on all, and we do not take lightly any effort to circumvent the foundational rights enshrined in our Constitution—rights fought for by generations of working Americans. We will not be silent as the power of the executive is used to sow division, punish political opponents, and undermine the rule of law.
Last night with the stroke of a pen President Trump attempted to eliminate collective bargaining for nearly a million workers. He is anti-union, anti-worker, and anti-democracy.
This is more than a policy dispute—it is a fundamental threat to the balance of power and the very principles that have safeguarded our republic since its founding. In his Farewell Address, President George Washington warned the nation of the dangers of political factions that place party loyalty above the public good, and of the creeping rise of despotism when checks and balances are ignored or dismantled.
The labor movement has always been a bulwark against the abuse of power. An attack on one, is an attack on all, and we do not take lightly any effort to circumvent the foundational rights enshrined in our Constitution—rights fought for by generations of working Americans. We will not be silent as the power of the executive is used to sow division, punish political opponents, and undermine the rule of law.
Maine AFL-CIO:
On Thursday, President Donald [Trump] signed an executive order claiming to outlaw collective bargaining for nearly a million federal workers, citing a little-used provision of federal labor law relating to national security issues. The president claims he is authorized by a rarely-used provision in the 1978 Civil Service Reform Act to exclude federal agencies from collective bargaining rights if the rules “cannot be applied to that agency or subdivision in a manner consistent with national security requirements.” The president’s edict eliminates collective bargaining for nearly 75% of federal workers who are currently represented by unions, according to Government Executive.Specifically, the executive order illegally terminates union contracts for workers at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, the Togus VA Medical Center, the Defense Financing Accounting Services (DFAS) in Limestone, SUPSHIP Bath at BIW and other federal workplaces in Maine.“The Portsmouth Metal Trades Council stands in strong opposition to the executive orders and memo from the Office of Personnel eliminating collective bargaining rights for a large portion of our federal workforce,” said Alana Schaeffer, President of the Metal Trades Council. “For decades, collective bargaining has provided a structured and effective mechanism for federal employees to negotiate issues of workplace safety, effective training, and working conditions, as well as advocating for competitive wages with the private sector, ensuring a stable and motivated workforce. The direct assault on dedicated public servants by stripping these rights is grossly undermining the essential role that labor unions play in advocating for employees and protecting them from unfair and inequitable treatment.”Schaeffer continued, “The assault on federal workers’ collective bargaining rights will lead to workforce instability, increased turnover, and difficulty in retaining experienced personnel as well as affect the morale of our workforce. An unstable, weakened workforce due to a loss of these rights will gravely impact national security. The Portsmouth Metal Trades Council stands strong in our support of the tradesworkers we represent and their rights to collectively bargain.”“Straight out of Project 2025, this Executive Order is union busting. It is an attack on workers’ fundamental rights and our freedom of speech and association. Workers in Maine who care for our veterans, service our submarines, make sure our food is safe to eat and much more will no longer have a legal right to organize with their co-workers for better conditions to deliver the best services possible,” said Matt Schlobohm, Executive Director of the Maine AFL-CIO. “We stand in solidarity with our federal union family, a third of whom are military veterans. We will not stand by as our rights are illegally stripped away and our democratic institutions are dismantled by executive fiat. We will fight this with everything we have.”
On Thursday, President Donald [Trump] signed an executive order claiming to outlaw collective bargaining for nearly a million federal workers, citing a little-used provision of federal labor law relating to national security issues. The president claims he is authorized by a rarely-used provision in the 1978 Civil Service Reform Act to exclude federal agencies from collective bargaining rights if the rules “cannot be applied to that agency or subdivision in a manner consistent with national security requirements.” The president’s edict eliminates collective bargaining for nearly 75% of federal workers who are currently represented by unions, according to Government Executive.
Specifically, the executive order illegally terminates union contracts for workers at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, the Togus VA Medical Center, the Defense Financing Accounting Services (DFAS) in Limestone, SUPSHIP Bath at BIW and other federal workplaces in Maine.
“The Portsmouth Metal Trades Council stands in strong opposition to the executive orders and memo from the Office of Personnel eliminating collective bargaining rights for a large portion of our federal workforce,” said Alana Schaeffer, President of the Metal Trades Council. “For decades, collective bargaining has provided a structured and effective mechanism for federal employees to negotiate issues of workplace safety, effective training, and working conditions, as well as advocating for competitive wages with the private sector, ensuring a stable and motivated workforce. The direct assault on dedicated public servants by stripping these rights is grossly undermining the essential role that labor unions play in advocating for employees and protecting them from unfair and inequitable treatment.”
Schaeffer continued, “The assault on federal workers’ collective bargaining rights will lead to workforce instability, increased turnover, and difficulty in retaining experienced personnel as well as affect the morale of our workforce. An unstable, weakened workforce due to a loss of these rights will gravely impact national security. The Portsmouth Metal Trades Council stands strong in our support of the tradesworkers we represent and their rights to collectively bargain.”
“Straight out of Project 2025, this Executive Order is union busting. It is an attack on workers’ fundamental rights and our freedom of speech and association. Workers in Maine who care for our veterans, service our submarines, make sure our food is safe to eat and much more will no longer have a legal right to organize with their co-workers for better conditions to deliver the best services possible,” said Matt Schlobohm, Executive Director of the Maine AFL-CIO. “We stand in solidarity with our federal union family, a third of whom are military veterans. We will not stand by as our rights are illegally stripped away and our democratic institutions are dismantled by executive fiat. We will fight this with everything we have.”
Maryland State and D.C. AFL-CIO President Donna S. Edwards:
President Trump’s executive order is a direct and shameful attack on the rights of working people. It undermines the fundamental right of federal workers to unionize and collectively bargain—rights that generations of workers have fought and sacrificed to secure. This is nothing less than union-busting at the highest level.The Maryland State and DC AFL-CIO stands in unwavering solidarity with federal workers. We will not stand by while workers’ voices are silenced, and their rights trampled. Our labor movement is united and resolute, and we will fight this assault on working people with every tool at our disposal.
President Trump’s executive order is a direct and shameful attack on the rights of working people. It undermines the fundamental right of federal workers to unionize and collectively bargain—rights that generations of workers have fought and sacrificed to secure. This is nothing less than union-busting at the highest level.
The Maryland State and DC AFL-CIO stands in unwavering solidarity with federal workers. We will not stand by while workers’ voices are silenced, and their rights trampled. Our labor movement is united and resolute, and we will fight this assault on working people with every tool at our disposal.
Massachusetts AFL-CIO:
Just yesterday, we saw another unprecedented attack on the working class with the executive order stripping collective bargaining and union rights from 700,000 federal workers.This executive order is another illegal attempt to gut the rights of the working class, straight out of the Project 2025 playbook. It strips the fundamental right to unionize and collectively bargain from workers across the federal government at more than 30 agencies. These are dedicated public servants who are our food inspectors, care for our veterans, help us in public health emergencies, and so many more who are being bullied out of their voice on the job. It’s clear that this is a retaliatory order as punishment for unions who are leading the fight against the administration’s illegal actions in court—and a blatant attempt to silence us and intimidate others for exercising their legal rights. To every single American who cares about the fundamental freedom of all workers, now is the time to be even louder. The labor movement is not about to let Trump and his unelected billionaire club destroy the freedoms that are the bedrock of American democracy. We will fight this outrageous attack on our members with every fiber of our collective being.
Just yesterday, we saw another unprecedented attack on the working class with the executive order stripping collective bargaining and union rights from 700,000 federal workers.
This executive order is another illegal attempt to gut the rights of the working class, straight out of the Project 2025 playbook. It strips the fundamental right to unionize and collectively bargain from workers across the federal government at more than 30 agencies. These are dedicated public servants who are our food inspectors, care for our veterans, help us in public health emergencies, and so many more who are being bullied out of their voice on the job. It’s clear that this is a retaliatory order as punishment for unions who are leading the fight against the administration’s illegal actions in court—and a blatant attempt to silence us and intimidate others for exercising their legal rights.
To every single American who cares about the fundamental freedom of all workers, now is the time to be even louder. The labor movement is not about to let Trump and his unelected billionaire club destroy the freedoms that are the bedrock of American democracy. We will fight this outrageous attack on our members with every fiber of our collective being.
Michigan State AFL-CIO President Ron Bieber:
Donald Trump’s executive order gutting collective bargaining for federal workers is a disgrace. This has nothing to do with national security—it’s about taking away the rights of working people so it’s harder for the working class to fight back. Trump and Elon [Musk] are attacking unions because they know we won’t let them turn our nation over to their billionaire bedfellows. We stand with federal workers in the fight ahead—an injury to one is an injury to all. The right to collectively bargain is a fundamental American freedom, and we will fight like hell to protect it.
Minnesota AFL-CIO President Bernie Burnham:
In the Labor Movement we often ask the question, “Which side are you on?” If his previous actions didn’t already show where he stands, President Trump’s Executive Order to take away federal workers’ fundamental right to union representation and a voice on the job shows he stands in direct opposition to every working person in our nation.Collective bargaining for federal government workers has enjoyed support for decades from Presidents of both parties. Without union representation, federal employees—especially whistleblowers and veterans—lose vital protections from retaliation and political interference.If President Trump is allowed to get away with rampant union busting, it means he can take away union rights from working people in Minnesota and across the nation. It’s time for Minnesota’s Republicans to decide whether they stand with union busters like Donald Trump and Elon Musk or working Minnesotans. We are watching.
In the Labor Movement we often ask the question, “Which side are you on?” If his previous actions didn’t already show where he stands, President Trump’s Executive Order to take away federal workers’ fundamental right to union representation and a voice on the job shows he stands in direct opposition to every working person in our nation.
Collective bargaining for federal government workers has enjoyed support for decades from Presidents of both parties. Without union representation, federal employees—especially whistleblowers and veterans—lose vital protections from retaliation and political interference.
If President Trump is allowed to get away with rampant union busting, it means he can take away union rights from working people in Minnesota and across the nation. It’s time for Minnesota’s Republicans to decide whether they stand with union busters like Donald Trump and Elon Musk or working Minnesotans. We are watching.
New York City Central Labor Council President Vincent Alvarez:
The President’s Executive Order is nothing more than blatant union-busting and retaliation against dedicated federal workers for exercising their rights. It strips hundreds of thousands of public servants of their fundamental right to collective bargaining not to improve government, but to consolidate power at workers’ expense. This is about silencing the workers who keep our country running while paving the way for a billionaire-backed takeover of our public institutions.Federal employees—many of whom are veterans and frontline public servants here in New York City—secure our airports, protect our food and water, and provide critical services every day. Silencing them doesn’t make government more efficient; it weakens the services millions of Americans rely on. The New York City labor movement stands firmly against this attack on working people and communities. An injury to one is an injury to all, and we will fight back against any attempt to silence workers and roll back our hard-won rights.
The President’s Executive Order is nothing more than blatant union-busting and retaliation against dedicated federal workers for exercising their rights. It strips hundreds of thousands of public servants of their fundamental right to collective bargaining not to improve government, but to consolidate power at workers’ expense. This is about silencing the workers who keep our country running while paving the way for a billionaire-backed takeover of our public institutions.
Federal employees—many of whom are veterans and frontline public servants here in New York City—secure our airports, protect our food and water, and provide critical services every day. Silencing them doesn’t make government more efficient; it weakens the services millions of Americans rely on. The New York City labor movement stands firmly against this attack on working people and communities. An injury to one is an injury to all, and we will fight back against any attempt to silence workers and roll back our hard-won rights.
New York State AFL-CIO President Mario Cilento:
This executive order is a direct attack on working people, an assault on workers’ rights, and a blatant attempt to silence workers. It strips workers across the federal government of their fundamental right to unionize and collectively bargain. It is a textbook example of union-busting.Let me be very clear, the Union Movement in New York State stands united. We will fight this outrageous assault on working people with all the strength of our collective resolve.
This executive order is a direct attack on working people, an assault on workers’ rights, and a blatant attempt to silence workers. It strips workers across the federal government of their fundamental right to unionize and collectively bargain. It is a textbook example of union-busting.
Let me be very clear, the Union Movement in New York State stands united. We will fight this outrageous assault on working people with all the strength of our collective resolve.
North Carolina State AFL-CIO President MaryBe McMillan:
North Carolina’s labor movement strongly condemns President Trump’s illegal action to deprive federal workers across our country of their fundamental freedom to unionize.Trump is punishing people who care for our veterans, ensure the safety of our food and drug supply, respond to emergencies, and do so much more for having the courage to defend themselves and the critical public services they provide from an unelected billionaire and a President who would see himself a king with the right to do as he pleases. Unions of working people have been the principal organized opposition to Trump’s Project 2025 agenda, and this attempt to break our resolve by busting our unions is payback. We call on Senators [Thom] Tillis and [Ted] Budd and our entire congressional delegation to defend federal workers’ rights and stand up against this illegal action. We will not be silenced. We know that our solidarity is our strength, and we will continue to stand up and stand together until our freedom and our democratic rights are restored.
North Carolina’s labor movement strongly condemns President Trump’s illegal action to deprive federal workers across our country of their fundamental freedom to unionize.
Trump is punishing people who care for our veterans, ensure the safety of our food and drug supply, respond to emergencies, and do so much more for having the courage to defend themselves and the critical public services they provide from an unelected billionaire and a President who would see himself a king with the right to do as he pleases.
Unions of working people have been the principal organized opposition to Trump’s Project 2025 agenda, and this attempt to break our resolve by busting our unions is payback.
We call on Senators [Thom] Tillis and [Ted] Budd and our entire congressional delegation to defend federal workers’ rights and stand up against this illegal action. We will not be silenced. We know that our solidarity is our strength, and we will continue to stand up and stand together until our freedom and our democratic rights are restored.
North Shore AFL-CIO Federation of Labor:
In a sweeping attack on federal workers, Donald Trump has signed an executive order eliminating collective bargaining rights for hundreds of thousands of federal employees—including right here in Northeast Ohio. Following Trump’s order, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) issued a memo directing federal agencies to end union rights, shut down grievance procedures, take away union representation, and rip up existing union contracts. Using a distorted interpretation of the Civil Service Reform Act of 1978, Trump is trying to justify this action under the guise of “national security.” Let’s be clear: this is not about national security—it’s retaliation against workers who are standing up for their rights.This latest assault builds on the administration’s earlier move to terminate the collective bargaining agreement for tens of thousands of TSA employees, an action the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) rightfully called an “unprovoked attack.” It’s clear: Trump isn’t just eroding labor rights—he’s dismantling them.“The right to collectively bargain is fundamental—not just for federal workers, but for all working people,” said Brian Pearson, Executive Secretary of the North Shore AFL-CIO Federation of Labor. “This is union-busting at the highest level. Stripping federal workers of their union rights is a clear attempt to silence them, weaken their power, and crush organized labor nationwide. But make no mistake—we won’t back down.”As AFGE prepares legal action, we stand ready to support our affiliate unions in this fight. We call on all union members and allies to raise their voices, take action, and stand in solidarity against this blatant attack on workers’ rights.
In a sweeping attack on federal workers, Donald Trump has signed an executive order eliminating collective bargaining rights for hundreds of thousands of federal employees—including right here in Northeast Ohio.
Following Trump’s order, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) issued a memo directing federal agencies to end union rights, shut down grievance procedures, take away union representation, and rip up existing union contracts. Using a distorted interpretation of the Civil Service Reform Act of 1978, Trump is trying to justify this action under the guise of “national security.”
Let’s be clear: this is not about national security—it’s retaliation against workers who are standing up for their rights.
This latest assault builds on the administration’s earlier move to terminate the collective bargaining agreement for tens of thousands of TSA employees, an action the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) rightfully called an “unprovoked attack.” It’s clear: Trump isn’t just eroding labor rights—he’s dismantling them.
“The right to collectively bargain is fundamental—not just for federal workers, but for all working people,” said Brian Pearson, Executive Secretary of the North Shore AFL-CIO Federation of Labor. “This is union-busting at the highest level. Stripping federal workers of their union rights is a clear attempt to silence them, weaken their power, and crush organized labor nationwide. But make no mistake—we won’t back down.”
As AFGE prepares legal action, we stand ready to support our affiliate unions in this fight. We call on all union members and allies to raise their voices, take action, and stand in solidarity against this blatant attack on workers’ rights.
Oregon AFL-CIO President Graham Trainor:
Let’s call this what it is: a direct assault on working people.With one executive order, the Trump administration is stripping union rights from tens of thousands of federal workers—silencing their voices at more than 30 agencies. These are the same workers who keep our food safe, care for our veterans, and protect public health. Now, they’re being punished for standing up to this administration in court.This isn’t some policy change—it’s union-busting, plain and simple. It’s pulled right out of Project 2025 and meant to weaken worker power and dismantle unions.In Oregon, we don’t back down from a fight. We know what it means to stand up to bullies. And we won’t stand by while extremists try to roll back generations of progress. To our union siblings across the federal government—we see you, we’ve got your back, and we’re in this with you.
Let’s call this what it is: a direct assault on working people.
With one executive order, the Trump administration is stripping union rights from tens of thousands of federal workers—silencing their voices at more than 30 agencies. These are the same workers who keep our food safe, care for our veterans, and protect public health. Now, they’re being punished for standing up to this administration in court.
This isn’t some policy change—it’s union-busting, plain and simple. It’s pulled right out of Project 2025 and meant to weaken worker power and dismantle unions.
In Oregon, we don’t back down from a fight. We know what it means to stand up to bullies. And we won’t stand by while extremists try to roll back generations of progress. To our union siblings across the federal government—we see you, we’ve got your back, and we’re in this with you.
San Francisco Building and Construction Trades Council Secretary-Treasurer Rudy Gonzalez:
The Trump administration is showing us exactly who they are—union busters. The attack on federal worker rights to collectively bargain will not go unchallenged by the labor movement. They are awakening the spirit of the American worker who cannot and will not be “nullified” or silenced. We stand with our sisters and brothers in the federal workforce and call upon our labor allies to stand with us and fight these attacks. Whatever it takes.
Texas AFL-CIO:
“Trump is trying to silence the labor movement, but we’re not going anywhere,” said Texas AFL-CIO President Rick Levy. “Texas union members stand shoulder to shoulder with federal employees against this fraudster. We are rising up, organizing, and ready to defend our brothers and sisters—whatever it takes.”Texas is home to more than 130,000 federal workers across agencies—the third most in the country. The majority of those are employed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
“Trump is trying to silence the labor movement, but we’re not going anywhere,” said Texas AFL-CIO President Rick Levy. “Texas union members stand shoulder to shoulder with federal employees against this fraudster. We are rising up, organizing, and ready to defend our brothers and sisters—whatever it takes.”
Texas is home to more than 130,000 federal workers across agencies—the third most in the country. The majority of those are employed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Wisconsin AFL-CIO President Stephanie Bloomingdale:
The freedom to stand together with our coworkers and collectively bargain with employers is a fundamental American right. No politician, including Donald Trump, has the right to take away our unions. We know an injury to one is an injury to all. The men and women of Wisconsin's labor movement stand in solidarity in support of these fundamental American values. Together, we will resist attacks on our freedoms, our jobs and our union rights.
Economic Policy Institute (EPI):
President Trump dismantling collective bargaining rights from more than a million federal workers is pure political retribution. The administration has selectively revoked collective bargaining rights from federal workers represented by unions that are fighting against the administration’s efforts to tear down the federal government and the core services it provides. This is the behavior of an autocrat who grants rights to those who bow down to him and strips the rights of those who challenge him. It is a direct assault on the principles of democracy and the rule of law.We cannot allow this power grab to go unchallenged. By undermining the rights of workers who ensure our national security, public health, and economic stability, the administration is not only attacking unions but also jeopardizing the very services that keep our nation safe and functional. This is a dangerous erosion of workers’ rights and democratic principles, and we in the progressive movement must stand together with these workers and their unions to defend our democracy.
President Trump dismantling collective bargaining rights from more than a million federal workers is pure political retribution. The administration has selectively revoked collective bargaining rights from federal workers represented by unions that are fighting against the administration’s efforts to tear down the federal government and the core services it provides. This is the behavior of an autocrat who grants rights to those who bow down to him and strips the rights of those who challenge him. It is a direct assault on the principles of democracy and the rule of law.
We cannot allow this power grab to go unchallenged. By undermining the rights of workers who ensure our national security, public health, and economic stability, the administration is not only attacking unions but also jeopardizing the very services that keep our nation safe and functional. This is a dangerous erosion of workers’ rights and democratic principles, and we in the progressive movement must stand together with these workers and their unions to defend our democracy.
Congressional Labor Caucus Co-Chairs Reps. Donald Norcross (NJ-01), Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Steven Horsford (NV-04) and Mark Pocan (WI-02):
Workers deserve the right to collectively bargain, full stop. Trump’s decision to unilaterally revoke collective bargaining rights for hundreds of thousands of federal workers demonstrates a blatant disregard for hardworking Americans—from nurses to firefighters to law enforcement officers and many more. We call on anyone who claims to stand for working people to join us in condemning this overreach and in fighting to reverse this assault on the labor movement.
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Activision User Research Workers Vote to Join CWA
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.
A supermajority of user research workers at video game publisher Activision voted on Friday to form a union with Communications Workers of America (CWA) Local 9400.
User researchers study consumer opinions and behaviors for video game developers so they can produce the best experience for players. As part of the Campaign to Organize Digital Employees-CWA (CODE-CWA), these workers are joining the ranks of more than 2,000 colleagues at other Microsoft-owned studios who have organized under the tech giant’s neutrality agreement with CWA.
“A union allows workers to create an industry that works for them, which is vital in an industry that we deeply care about,” said organizing committee member Pat Dimaandal in a press release. “Workers should not feel punished for pursuing a career that they love, and that’s why we’re organizing toward long-term, sustainable careers in this industry.”
Worker Wins: Real Progress for Working People
Our latest roundup of worker wins includes numerous examples of working people organizing, bargaining and mobilizing for a better life.
WGAE Members Ratify First Contract Under New Gizmodo Management: Nine months after the online tech news outlet was acquired by a European media company, Writers Guild of America East (WGAE) members at Gizmodo have ratified their first contract with new management. The 14-person bargaining unit unanimously approved the new deal with Keleops Media that builds on victories secured in previous agreements. Highlights of the three-year contract include artificial intelligence safeguards, raises, a higher 401(k) match rate, maintenance of successorship language and more. “The Gizmodo USA Union is excited to have a new contract with Keleops,” said the bargaining unit in a press release. “We are looking forward to continuing to cover the tech industry with integrity. We’re excited to collaborate with management and grow in ways we were stifled before.”
Judge Orders Post-Gazette to Restore Striking Workers’ Health Care and Resume Bargaining: A U.S. Court of Appeals ruled on Monday that Pittsburgh Post-Gazette management must restore health care benefits to its striking journalists and resume bargaining with the Newspaper Guild of Pittsburgh, The NewsGuild-CWA Local 38061. Members have been on strike since October of 2022 after management at the news outlet refused to bargain in good faith and illegally made unilateral changes to the workers’ health care plan. This ruling is a major win and massive development because it directly addresses the core demands of this work stoppage—which is now the longest ongoing strike in the United States. “Members of the Newspaper Guild of Pittsburgh have stood and fought against the Post-Gazette’s illegal union busting since October 2022, and today we have been given the victory that we’ve held the picket line waiting for so long,” said Zack Tanner, president of the Newspaper Guild of Pittsburgh, in a press release. “Our win today is a major victory not just for us striking workers, but for all workers in Pittsburgh who want to stand up and fight.” “NewsGuild-CWA members have a saying: whatever it takes,” NewsGuild-CWA President Jon Schleuss added. “Guild members have struck for 29 months knowing we were right and the company broke federal law. Today the 3rd [U.S.] Circuit Court of Appeals agreed with us. We’re thrilled and will continue doing our job holding power to account, especially when it’s the boss.”
Oregon Senate Passes Bill Extending Unemployment to Striking Workers: Oregon state senators voted on Thursday to pass legislation that would level the playing field in contract negotiations by making striking workers eligible for unemployment benefits. The bill now heads to the House of Representatives, where it will be considered by the Labor and Workplace Standards Committee. If passed, Senate Bill 916 would make Oregon the first state in the country to extend unemployment benefits to striking workers in both the public and private sectors. Payments would kick in after two weeks on the picket line under this legislation—a reasonable timeline, given that 86% of strikes last less than 14 days. “The Oregon AFL-CIO applauds the Senate’s passage of SB 916, a critical step toward ensuring that every worker in Oregon has a fair shot at economic security,” said Oregon AFL-CIO President Graham Trainor in a press release. “This bill represents real progress for working people, those who’ve too often been left behind by policies that favor the wealthy and powerful. We’re proud to stand with the workers and community advocates who fought tirelessly to get us here, and we urge the House to move swiftly to send SB 916 to Governor [Tina] Kotek’s desk.”
CLC Support Was Key to Bloomington Workers’ Contract Victory: Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union-UFCW (RWDSU-UFCW) members at the Bloomington, Illinois, Barnes & Noble ratified their first-ever contract earlier this month. Workers at the storefront credit their huge victory in part to the outpouring of support from their union brothers, sisters and siblings at Bloomington-Normal Trades and Labor Assembly (BNTLA). BNTLA has 30 affiliated locals over a four-county, central Illinois area, with about 4,000 members. Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 197—which opened its union hall to Barnes & Noble Union members to use for bargaining—and other unions from around the area mobilized to support the bookstore staff at various actions and walkouts over the course of negotiations to show that the labor movement had their backs in this fight. “The support from other unions was absolutely crucial for our success,” said Zane Crockett, the lead bookseller at the Bloomington store. “Having support on the picket lines, and encouragement within the store raised our group’s morale. The company definitely took notice, and this assisted us in finalizing our contract. We are very grateful for the Bloomington & Normal Trades & Labor Assembly and all the work they do.” BNTLA President Jason Pascal, a Laborers (LIUNA) Local 362 member, added: “The Bloomington & Normal Trades & Labor Assembly is not a huge central labor council, but we strive to practice our union solidarity. Anytime there’s an organizing drive, we want to be there one hundred percent. Many of our affiliated locals are less than 100 members, so we know those unions depend upon solidarity to survive and build spirit.”
Skidmore Faculty Ratifies First Union Contract: Faculty represented by Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 200United at Skidmore College unanimously voted to ratify their first collective bargaining agreement (CBA) last week. The new agreement between Skidmore Faculty Forward and the private liberal arts school covers full- and part-time faculty who are not on the tenure track. The core bargaining goal for members was longer renewable appointments—before the CBA, they worked on short contracts that lasted one to three years and then were terminated with no guarantee of being rehired. Fixing this serial job insecurity was a major highlight of the deal, in addition to increased salary minimums, full parental leave and more. “We are elated that our first collective bargaining agreement has been ratified,” the union said in a statement. “We are incredibly proud of the hard work and thankful for the contributions, big and small, from so many of our colleagues and fellow union members. This contract would not be the life-changing and uplifting document that it is without their support. Thank you to the entire campus community for your support over the years. Together, we won huge gains and improvements in our working conditions and ultimately in our students’ learning conditions.”
Courier Staff Secures Voluntary Recognition: The Writers Guild of America East (WGAE) and digital media company Courier announced Thursday that management has agreed to voluntarily recognize Courier’s staff union. The bargaining unit includes reporters, editors, designers and social media managers. Members of Courier United report productive conversations with the publication and are looking forward to negotiating a contract that ensures the company’s mission. “We are pleased that COURIER has opted to voluntarily recognize our union at this crucial time when media workers everywhere are fighting for stronger protections against layoffs and better pay,” the Courier United Organizing Committee said in a press release. Sara David, WGAE vice president of online media, added, “I’m so happy to welcome the COURIER staff to the Writers Guild of America East. We appreciate that management at COURIER upheld its progressive values by working quickly to recognize the union. Every newsroom benefits from a strong union contract.”
Federal Court Blocks DOGE Access to Social Security Data: On Thursday, a federal judge issued a temporary order preventing Elon Musk’s DOGE from accessing the sensitive Social Security data of millions of Americans. The ruling comes from a lawsuit filed by Democracy Forward on behalf of AFSCME, the Alliance for Retired Americans and the American Federation of Teachers (AFT). “The court saw that Elon Musk and his unqualified lackeys present a grave danger to Social Security and have illegally accessed the data of millions of Americans,” said AFSCME President Lee Saunders in a press release. “This decision will not only force them to delete any data they have currently saved, but it will also block them from further sharing, accessing or disclosing our Social Security information.” “We are grateful that the court took strong action to protect every American’s personal data,” said Richard Fiesta, executive director of the Alliance for Retired Americans, in a press release. “Seniors must be able to trust the Social Security Administration will protect their personal information and keep it from falling into the wrong hands.”
Tags: Organizing
Take Action: No Cuts to Social Security Phone Bank
Social Security is a lifeline for America’s taxpayers, providing income and dignity after a lifetime of hard work.
Which is why it’s so mind-boggling that Elon Musk and DOGE would attack such a successful, cost-effective and popular program.
As of last week, Musk’s pseudo-government agency listed 47 Social Security offices across the country that it intends to close—at the same time that the Social Security Administration (SSA) has been sending mixed messages about whether or not it will shut down Social Security’s toll-free phone support service. The website has crashed four times in 10 days this month. And according to reports over the past month, the SSA could be planning to fire 50% of its workforce, jeopardizing the timely delivery of checks that people depend on to pay their bills. That’s why we’re sharing this important virtual phone bank from our friends at the Alliance for Retired Americans. Founded by the AFL-CIO in 2001, the alliance now has 40 state alliances and members in every state.
The alliance is holding a virtual phone bank on Thursday to call America’s seniors to let them know about the DOGE threats to Social Security and urge them to call their members of Congress. Can you join the Alliance for Retired Americans? Here are the details:
WHAT: Save Social Security Virtual Phone Bank
WHEN: Thursday, March 27, at 2 p.m. ET
REGISTER HERE
Can’t make it on Thursday afternoon? Call your own representative and senators here and urge them to protect Social Security.
Thank you for taking action to say, “Hands off our Social Security!”
Stand Together As A Union: 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:
Today is Equal Pay Day – the day of a new year at which women’s average earnings make up the difference from men’s pay from the preceding year. Workers of all demographics and identities deserve equal pay for equal labor. Learn more and get activated at https://t.co/UApJyhUGvr pic.twitter.com/dzbdV5V5Rt— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) March 25, 2025
Today is Equal Pay Day – the day of a new year at which women’s average earnings make up the difference from men’s pay from the preceding year. Workers of all demographics and identities deserve equal pay for equal labor. Learn more and get activated at https://t.co/UApJyhUGvr pic.twitter.com/dzbdV5V5Rt
— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) March 25, 2025
AFGE:
AFGE has fought alongside TSA Officers for decades and we're not stopping now.The only way to fight back is to stand together as a union.https://t.co/hzd7D05wz8— AFGE (@AFGENational) March 26, 2025
AFGE has fought alongside TSA Officers for decades and we're not stopping now.The only way to fight back is to stand together as a union.https://t.co/hzd7D05wz8
— AFGE (@AFGENational) March 26, 2025
AFSCME:
🚨UNION BUSTING ALERT🚨 Extremists in the House are taking up bills aimed at eliminating your voice on the job. Here's a sample of their anti-worker agenda: pic.twitter.com/qrx4cl85bK— AFSCME (@AFSCME) March 25, 2025
🚨UNION BUSTING ALERT🚨 Extremists in the House are taking up bills aimed at eliminating your voice on the job. Here's a sample of their anti-worker agenda: pic.twitter.com/qrx4cl85bK
— AFSCME (@AFSCME) March 25, 2025
Alliance for Retired Americans:
Wow. Not a good look to say you "love" the SSA field office closures, staff reductions, and general chaos caused by DOGE.pic.twitter.com/kMajHSzSDJ— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) March 25, 2025
Wow. Not a good look to say you "love" the SSA field office closures, staff reductions, and general chaos caused by DOGE.pic.twitter.com/kMajHSzSDJ
— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) March 25, 2025
Amalgamated Transit Union:
#UnionSolidarity #bvgberlin pic.twitter.com/eLdaYvVFI5— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) March 26, 2025
#UnionSolidarity #bvgberlin pic.twitter.com/eLdaYvVFI5
— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) March 26, 2025
American Postal Workers Union:
"[...]any attack on the Postal Service is part of the ongoing oligarchs’ coup against the vital public services our members and other public servants provide the country. We know that privatized postal services will lead to higher postage prices, and lower service quality to the… pic.twitter.com/iIauHwuPVk— The American Postal Workers Union - APWU (@APWUnational) March 26, 2025
"[...]any attack on the Postal Service is part of the ongoing oligarchs’ coup against the vital public services our members and other public servants provide the country. We know that privatized postal services will lead to higher postage prices, and lower service quality to the… pic.twitter.com/iIauHwuPVk
— The American Postal Workers Union - APWU (@APWUnational) March 26, 2025
Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:
“We are just starting to see United get serious at the table,” Ken Diaz, president of United AFA, said Wednesday. “This management team has delayed, delayed, delayed. They are starting to take some of their concessions off the table.” @tedreednc https://t.co/87IGeyhSx7— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) March 20, 2025
“We are just starting to see United get serious at the table,” Ken Diaz, president of United AFA, said Wednesday. “This management team has delayed, delayed, delayed. They are starting to take some of their concessions off the table.” @tedreednc https://t.co/87IGeyhSx7
— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) March 20, 2025
Boilermakers:
National Rosie the Riveter Day was extra special for Local 549 #Boilermakers as they celebrated with the original Rosies from the Kaiser Shipyards pic.twitter.com/gq1caXCOYT— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) March 24, 2025
National Rosie the Riveter Day was extra special for Local 549 #Boilermakers as they celebrated with the original Rosies from the Kaiser Shipyards pic.twitter.com/gq1caXCOYT
— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) March 24, 2025
Bricklayers:
Happy #WorkSiteWednesday!This week’s worksite has a beautiful terrazzo pour from our brothers at BAC Local 7 Tile, Marble & Terrazzo NY & NJ!Thanks Zonca Terrazzo and Mosaic, LLC for highlighting our members!#BestHandsInTheBusiness #ItsBetterInAUnion pic.twitter.com/G3ElmUbEeB— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) March 26, 2025
Happy #WorkSiteWednesday!This week’s worksite has a beautiful terrazzo pour from our brothers at BAC Local 7 Tile, Marble & Terrazzo NY & NJ!Thanks Zonca Terrazzo and Mosaic, LLC for highlighting our members!#BestHandsInTheBusiness #ItsBetterInAUnion pic.twitter.com/G3ElmUbEeB
— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) March 26, 2025
Communications Workers of America:
Many CWA members work at locally-owned PBS & NPR stations and play a crucial role in keeping our communities informed. Without public television and radio stations, we will lose access to critical local news and programming https://t.co/31ZGnZd8dF— CWA (@CWAUnion) March 26, 2025
Many CWA members work at locally-owned PBS & NPR stations and play a crucial role in keeping our communities informed. Without public television and radio stations, we will lose access to critical local news and programming https://t.co/31ZGnZd8dF
— CWA (@CWAUnion) March 26, 2025
Department for Professional Employees:
DPE commends @SenThomTillis and @MarkWarner for reintroducing PATPA, which will restore tax fairness for middle class entertainment workers. Here's our full statement: https://t.co/PUl29YfJ3V pic.twitter.com/lqx6O3QHb9— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) March 25, 2025
DPE commends @SenThomTillis and @MarkWarner for reintroducing PATPA, which will restore tax fairness for middle class entertainment workers. Here's our full statement: https://t.co/PUl29YfJ3V pic.twitter.com/lqx6O3QHb9
— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) March 25, 2025
Electrical Workers:
The country needs more electricity – and more electricians. https://t.co/RKctPgnfi9— IBEW (@IBEW) March 26, 2025
The country needs more electricity – and more electricians. https://t.co/RKctPgnfi9
— IBEW (@IBEW) March 26, 2025
Fire Fighters:
🔥 #OnThisDay in 1911, New York City fire fighters responded to the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire, which resulted in the deaths of 146 garment workers. The tragedy led to new laws protecting workers and to the development of @osha_dol. pic.twitter.com/CHyMBi4tet— International Association of Fire Fighters (@IAFFofficial) March 25, 2025
🔥 #OnThisDay in 1911, New York City fire fighters responded to the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire, which resulted in the deaths of 146 garment workers. The tragedy led to new laws protecting workers and to the development of @osha_dol. pic.twitter.com/CHyMBi4tet
— International Association of Fire Fighters (@IAFFofficial) March 25, 2025
Heat and Frost Insulators:
Did you know the journal is now available on our website & in the app?📲As leaders of sustainable practices, we believe how we produce our quarterly journal should reflect our commitment to a greener tomorrow.Want to go paperless? Update your settings in your membership… pic.twitter.com/5z63O4NZz8— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) March 19, 2025
Did you know the journal is now available on our website & in the app?📲As leaders of sustainable practices, we believe how we produce our quarterly journal should reflect our commitment to a greener tomorrow.Want to go paperless? Update your settings in your membership… pic.twitter.com/5z63O4NZz8
— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) March 19, 2025
Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:
🚨 New Episode Alert! 🎙️☕In this episode of El Cafecito del Día, we sit down with Dora Cervantes, Secretary-Treasurer of the IAM, LCLAA Vice President, and a trailblazing Latina leader in the labor movement. 💪🏽🔥 pic.twitter.com/6n3tUvRGPV— LCLAA (@LCLAA) March 25, 2025
🚨 New Episode Alert! 🎙️☕In this episode of El Cafecito del Día, we sit down with Dora Cervantes, Secretary-Treasurer of the IAM, LCLAA Vice President, and a trailblazing Latina leader in the labor movement. 💪🏽🔥 pic.twitter.com/6n3tUvRGPV
— LCLAA (@LCLAA) March 25, 2025
Labor Heritage Foundation:
🎭 Register now for the 2025 LHF Arts Exchange, June 20-22 in Silver Spring! Celebrate labor arts, unity & resilience. Space is limited! Info & sign-up: https://t.co/m0ZMk7Ykx9 pic.twitter.com/e0a4t68LQk— Labor Heritage (@LaborHeritage1) March 25, 2025
🎭 Register now for the 2025 LHF Arts Exchange, June 20-22 in Silver Spring! Celebrate labor arts, unity & resilience. Space is limited! Info & sign-up: https://t.co/m0ZMk7Ykx9 pic.twitter.com/e0a4t68LQk
— Labor Heritage (@LaborHeritage1) March 25, 2025
Laborers:
Safety isn’t optional. It’s #UNIONMADE. Laborers build North America’s future—working smart in the heat, staying protected with PPE, and backed by the unstoppable POWER of a union that fights for us. Join the movement 👉 https://t.co/N1htJdvA4k#FeelThePower #UnionStrong… pic.twitter.com/T95lLLbgoo— LIUNA (@LIUNA) March 26, 2025
Safety isn’t optional. It’s #UNIONMADE. Laborers build North America’s future—working smart in the heat, staying protected with PPE, and backed by the unstoppable POWER of a union that fights for us. Join the movement 👉 https://t.co/N1htJdvA4k#FeelThePower #UnionStrong… pic.twitter.com/T95lLLbgoo
— LIUNA (@LIUNA) March 26, 2025
AFGE Continues to Represent TSA Officers, Protect Their Workplace Rights https://t.co/ZX6ATSbDh1— Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) March 25, 2025
AFGE Continues to Represent TSA Officers, Protect Their Workplace Rights https://t.co/ZX6ATSbDh1
— Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) March 25, 2025
National Air Traffic Controllers Association:
NATCAvists are building relationships on Capitol Hill to strengthen the NAS and our profession. Share your photos! Email publicaffairs@natca.org, post with #NATCAinWashington, and tag @NATCA (FB/X) & @NATCAnational (IG). https://t.co/55rz01tlAt pic.twitter.com/602JECPsiC— NATCA (@NATCA) March 25, 2025
NATCAvists are building relationships on Capitol Hill to strengthen the NAS and our profession. Share your photos! Email publicaffairs@natca.org, post with #NATCAinWashington, and tag @NATCA (FB/X) & @NATCAnational (IG). https://t.co/55rz01tlAt pic.twitter.com/602JECPsiC
— NATCA (@NATCA) March 25, 2025
National Association of Letter Carriers:
Letter carriers deliver more than just mail — we provide a vital service that connects all Americans. But none of it happens without a strong, public Postal Service and the dedication of 640,000 USPS employees. Privatization poses a direct threat to that service. We say #HellNo! pic.twitter.com/LhcDWUXATP— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) March 26, 2025
Letter carriers deliver more than just mail — we provide a vital service that connects all Americans. But none of it happens without a strong, public Postal Service and the dedication of 640,000 USPS employees. Privatization poses a direct threat to that service. We say #HellNo! pic.twitter.com/LhcDWUXATP
— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) March 26, 2025
National Domestic Workers Alliance:
WATCH: Jess, a Medicaid recipient in Utah, describes how Medicaid program cuts would affect her life."I currently use Medicaid for my prescriptions, most prominently, and those aren't something I would be able to afford on my own."#HandsOffMedicaid pic.twitter.com/X2Zuxj02BT— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) March 21, 2025
WATCH: Jess, a Medicaid recipient in Utah, describes how Medicaid program cuts would affect her life."I currently use Medicaid for my prescriptions, most prominently, and those aren't something I would be able to afford on my own."#HandsOffMedicaid pic.twitter.com/X2Zuxj02BT
— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) March 21, 2025
National Nurses United:
The VA consistently outperforms the private sector when it comes to care, but critics are trying to dismantle the system and privatize it. Who will feel the worst impacts of these attacks? Our veteran patients.Southern nurses send a message to our VA siblings: Stand strong! pic.twitter.com/IvKDf5EXLm— NationalNursesUnited (@NationalNurses) March 25, 2025
The VA consistently outperforms the private sector when it comes to care, but critics are trying to dismantle the system and privatize it. Who will feel the worst impacts of these attacks? Our veteran patients.Southern nurses send a message to our VA siblings: Stand strong! pic.twitter.com/IvKDf5EXLm
— NationalNursesUnited (@NationalNurses) March 25, 2025
NFL Players Association:
A successful first day out on the links for the #NFLPAClassic 🏌️♂️📸Tune into the @golfchannel tomorrow from 6-8pm ET to see who’s taking home this year’s championship title. 📺 pic.twitter.com/ekpNGCotX7— NFLPA (@NFLPA) March 26, 2025
A successful first day out on the links for the #NFLPAClassic 🏌️♂️📸Tune into the @golfchannel tomorrow from 6-8pm ET to see who’s taking home this year’s championship title. 📺 pic.twitter.com/ekpNGCotX7
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) March 26, 2025
North America's Building Trades Unions:
In: skilled tradesOut: college loanshttps://t.co/8OwIaQ3cDy— The Building Trades (@NABTU) March 24, 2025
In: skilled tradesOut: college loanshttps://t.co/8OwIaQ3cDy
— The Building Trades (@NABTU) March 24, 2025
Office and Professional Employees:
This week’s #WomensHistoryMonth spotlight is Wendy Pope of OPEIU Local 29! As chief shop steward at Elevance, she is the first line of defense for co-workers experiencing issues at work. pic.twitter.com/v5UxT4wLk0— OPEIU | #UnionStrong (@OPEIU) March 24, 2025
This week’s #WomensHistoryMonth spotlight is Wendy Pope of OPEIU Local 29! As chief shop steward at Elevance, she is the first line of defense for co-workers experiencing issues at work. pic.twitter.com/v5UxT4wLk0
— OPEIU | #UnionStrong (@OPEIU) March 24, 2025
Painters and Allied Trades:
Unionized construction workers earn 42% more on average than our non-union counterparts.That's the difference unions like ours make. pic.twitter.com/ipafqedNPe— IUPAT (@GoIUPAT) March 25, 2025
Unionized construction workers earn 42% more on average than our non-union counterparts.That's the difference unions like ours make. pic.twitter.com/ipafqedNPe
— IUPAT (@GoIUPAT) March 25, 2025
Professional Aviation Safety Specialists:
March 25, 1911: fire tore through NY Triangle Shirtwaist Factory killing 146 workers—mostly women & girls. Out of tragedy came stronger workplace protections through labor unions. Attempts to roll back provisions endangers lives, sets our country back. #NeverForget #trianglefire pic.twitter.com/dqK8XiB0qO— PASS (@PASSNational) March 25, 2025
March 25, 1911: fire tore through NY Triangle Shirtwaist Factory killing 146 workers—mostly women & girls. Out of tragedy came stronger workplace protections through labor unions. Attempts to roll back provisions endangers lives, sets our country back. #NeverForget #trianglefire pic.twitter.com/dqK8XiB0qO
— PASS (@PASSNational) March 25, 2025
Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:
The @RWDSU is proud to announce our endorsement of @EryckaMontoya for NYC Council in District 21! As a native New Yorker who was raised in a union family in Queens, we know that Erycka will fight for working people! pic.twitter.com/jdovRApIr4— RWDSU (@RWDSU) March 26, 2025
The @RWDSU is proud to announce our endorsement of @EryckaMontoya for NYC Council in District 21! As a native New Yorker who was raised in a union family in Queens, we know that Erycka will fight for working people! pic.twitter.com/jdovRApIr4
— RWDSU (@RWDSU) March 26, 2025
Roofers and Waterproofers:
Choose the right anchorage for your personal fall arrest system – engineered anchor point systems typicallyexceed regulations and are the safest option. Learn more: https://t.co/KeV5KO6x7y #roofersafety365 pic.twitter.com/aQcVml0xqY— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) March 26, 2025
Choose the right anchorage for your personal fall arrest system – engineered anchor point systems typicallyexceed regulations and are the safest option. Learn more: https://t.co/KeV5KO6x7y #roofersafety365 pic.twitter.com/aQcVml0xqY
— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) March 26, 2025
SAG-AFTRA:
Did you hear @linsayrousseau? 2 YEARS of negotiations. We are fighting for proper A.I. protections: transparency, consent & compensation. It's time for the video game employers to #LevelUpTheContract! Show your support & learn more at https://t.co/ob855yNcHq. #VideoGameStrike pic.twitter.com/GzQVGUPlxT— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) March 22, 2025
Did you hear @linsayrousseau? 2 YEARS of negotiations. We are fighting for proper A.I. protections: transparency, consent & compensation. It's time for the video game employers to #LevelUpTheContract! Show your support & learn more at https://t.co/ob855yNcHq. #VideoGameStrike pic.twitter.com/GzQVGUPlxT
— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) March 22, 2025
Service Employees International Union (SEIU):
Medicaid is healthcare for nearly 80 million Americans. We’re here in DC reminding Congress that people matter, not billionaire tax breaks. ✊🏽 #ProtectMedicaid pic.twitter.com/eiZvJWpanK— SEIU (@SEIU) March 26, 2025
Medicaid is healthcare for nearly 80 million Americans. We’re here in DC reminding Congress that people matter, not billionaire tax breaks. ✊🏽 #ProtectMedicaid pic.twitter.com/eiZvJWpanK
— SEIU (@SEIU) March 26, 2025
Solidarity Center:
In 2021, state-organized forced labor - including child labor - in Uzbekistan’s cotton sector ended. Workers have been organizing for fair wages, safe conditions & a voice on the job - creating a path for cotton products that benefit working people, brands & the global market. pic.twitter.com/lP7c9zn7q2— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) March 20, 2025
In 2021, state-organized forced labor - including child labor - in Uzbekistan’s cotton sector ended. Workers have been organizing for fair wages, safe conditions & a voice on the job - creating a path for cotton products that benefit working people, brands & the global market. pic.twitter.com/lP7c9zn7q2
— Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) March 20, 2025
The NewsGuild-CWA:
NEW: Today, we joined a lawsuit against the U.S. Agency for Global Media and others for their efforts to shutter the agency and close several international newsrooms – forcing our members at Radio Free Asia off the job. pic.twitter.com/gEvTTNgc0i— The NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) March 21, 2025
NEW: Today, we joined a lawsuit against the U.S. Agency for Global Media and others for their efforts to shutter the agency and close several international newsrooms – forcing our members at Radio Free Asia off the job. pic.twitter.com/gEvTTNgc0i
— The NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) March 21, 2025
Theatrical Stage Employees:
BREAKING: Atlantic Theater Company Production Workers Ratify First Union Contract, End StrikeProduction crewmembers at Atlantic Theater Company have voted to ratify a tentative agreement reached on March 10th and are set to become among the first not-for-profit theater company… pic.twitter.com/eFvHbNXhal— IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) March 25, 2025
BREAKING: Atlantic Theater Company Production Workers Ratify First Union Contract, End StrikeProduction crewmembers at Atlantic Theater Company have voted to ratify a tentative agreement reached on March 10th and are set to become among the first not-for-profit theater company… pic.twitter.com/eFvHbNXhal
— IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) March 25, 2025
Transport Workers Union:
The TWU successfully fought in Albany & NYC for a bigger in-house workforce to carry out the MTA Capital Plan. Our allies @NYSenDems and @NYSA_Majority stood with @twulocal100. A safer, more reliable transit system is coming if NYS funds the plan. @TwuSamuelsen https://t.co/TgYcCH0g5z— TWU (@transportworker) March 25, 2025
The TWU successfully fought in Albany & NYC for a bigger in-house workforce to carry out the MTA Capital Plan. Our allies @NYSenDems and @NYSA_Majority stood with @twulocal100. A safer, more reliable transit system is coming if NYS funds the plan. @TwuSamuelsen https://t.co/TgYcCH0g5z
— TWU (@transportworker) March 25, 2025
Transportation Trades Department:
It’s better in a union! 💪It was great to meet with @SenLBR to discuss her transportation priorities for Delaware and her committee assignments this Congress. #TransportationTuesday pic.twitter.com/aVUhNwFltx— TTD | America's Transportation Unions (@TTDAFLCIO) March 25, 2025
It’s better in a union! 💪It was great to meet with @SenLBR to discuss her transportation priorities for Delaware and her committee assignments this Congress. #TransportationTuesday pic.twitter.com/aVUhNwFltx
— TTD | America's Transportation Unions (@TTDAFLCIO) March 25, 2025
UAW:
"Cummins should stop stalling, stop using bully tactics (private security bullies), and scare tactics (scabs), and come back to the table ready to negotiate in good faith." -- Paul Youngblood, UAW Local 291, UAW Region 4 | #StandUpUAW pic.twitter.com/GElOahKP4d— UAW (@UAW) March 26, 2025
"Cummins should stop stalling, stop using bully tactics (private security bullies), and scare tactics (scabs), and come back to the table ready to negotiate in good faith." -- Paul Youngblood, UAW Local 291, UAW Region 4 | #StandUpUAW pic.twitter.com/GElOahKP4d
— UAW (@UAW) March 26, 2025
Alongside Working Families United and other allies, UNITE HERE Local 2 demonstrated our commitment Monday to protect TPS. We made our voices heard outside the courthouse on Monday before a judge heard a motion to postpone Homeland Security’s termination of TPS for Venezuelans. pic.twitter.com/b7wRsKBPqy— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) March 26, 2025
Alongside Working Families United and other allies, UNITE HERE Local 2 demonstrated our commitment Monday to protect TPS. We made our voices heard outside the courthouse on Monday before a judge heard a motion to postpone Homeland Security’s termination of TPS for Venezuelans. pic.twitter.com/b7wRsKBPqy
— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) March 26, 2025
United Food and Commercial Workers:
It is not too late to sign up for the 2025 Free Foreign Language Program Spring quarter! Whether it’s for travel, for work, or just for fun, this program offers members the ability to learn over 70 languages for free online.🌐: https://t.co/61IC0Gx1LG pic.twitter.com/3uM1c6xC7r— UFCW (@UFCW) March 25, 2025
It is not too late to sign up for the 2025 Free Foreign Language Program Spring quarter! Whether it’s for travel, for work, or just for fun, this program offers members the ability to learn over 70 languages for free online.🌐: https://t.co/61IC0Gx1LG pic.twitter.com/3uM1c6xC7r
— UFCW (@UFCW) March 25, 2025
United Steelworkers:
The @SolidarityCntr, part of the @AFLCIO family, stands with workers across the🌎 facing some of the toughest working conditions. Their work is driven by labor's shared vision: all workers have the right to organize, earn fair wages & work w/ dignity. https://t.co/92OF4UlA3e pic.twitter.com/k2eCqDqd95— United Steelworkers #EverybodysUnion (@steelworkers) March 26, 2025
The @SolidarityCntr, part of the @AFLCIO family, stands with workers across the🌎 facing some of the toughest working conditions. Their work is driven by labor's shared vision: all workers have the right to organize, earn fair wages & work w/ dignity. https://t.co/92OF4UlA3e pic.twitter.com/k2eCqDqd95
— United Steelworkers #EverybodysUnion (@steelworkers) March 26, 2025
Utility Workers:
Active members like Dana Pew of UWUA Local G-555 make #WomensHistory and #LaborHistory at the same time. https://t.co/GXKatzpfmJ— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) March 26, 2025
Active members like Dana Pew of UWUA Local G-555 make #WomensHistory and #LaborHistory at the same time. https://t.co/GXKatzpfmJ
— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) March 26, 2025
Writers Guild of America East:
Management loves to say we’re all family - it’s time to start treating workers like it. Fill out the interest form if you’re a nonfiction production worker looking for better conditions! #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/NybzKZEGsk— Writers Guild of America East (@WGAEast) March 25, 2025
Management loves to say we’re all family - it’s time to start treating workers like it. Fill out the interest form if you’re a nonfiction production worker looking for better conditions! #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/NybzKZEGsk
— Writers Guild of America East (@WGAEast) March 25, 2025
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Machinists and NFFE-IAM Hold Event Celebrating Federal Workers
Early Monday morning, the Machinists (IAM) and the National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE-IAM) gathered to show support for federal workers alongside AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler (pictured above) and community allies. Rally attendees spoke with commuters and held signs thanking federal employees for their critical work keeping our essential services running.
“We often take federal employees for granted, yet they dedicate their lives to serving the American people, often under challenging circumstances,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “It's crucial that we take time to recognize their hard work and commitment, not just on special occasions, but every day. They are going through a difficult time, and we are proud to support them with a simple thank you.”
Randy Erwin, national president of the NFFE-IAM, added: “They deserve our respect, our support, and fair treatment. This event is a small way to show our appreciation for their dedication and service.”
Let Us Work: 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 on X.
Alaska AFL-CIO:
Yesterday, @NALC_National Local 4319 here in Alaska said "HELL NO" to any attempt from Trump to privatize the USPS. Hundreds of letter carriers and union siblings showed up to protect the government institution that has been around longer than our Constitution. #FightLikeHell pic.twitter.com/sV0kzHmjfV— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) March 24, 2025
Yesterday, @NALC_National Local 4319 here in Alaska said "HELL NO" to any attempt from Trump to privatize the USPS. Hundreds of letter carriers and union siblings showed up to protect the government institution that has been around longer than our Constitution. #FightLikeHell pic.twitter.com/sV0kzHmjfV
— Alaska AFL-CIO (@AKAFLCIO) March 24, 2025
Arizona AFL-CIO:
Over 1,000 garment workers are demanding @Nike give them the recognition and pay they deserve. We stand with them. #SeeUsNike. @johnwrogers @peterblairhenry @michelleapeluso https://t.co/xdZZsJUiCT— Arizona AFL-CIO (@ArizonaAFLCIO) March 21, 2025
Over 1,000 garment workers are demanding @Nike give them the recognition and pay they deserve. We stand with them. #SeeUsNike. @johnwrogers @peterblairhenry @michelleapeluso https://t.co/xdZZsJUiCT
— Arizona AFL-CIO (@ArizonaAFLCIO) March 21, 2025
California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO:
Workers have the right to organize. Period. This right – of free assembly, to organize, to form a union and to collectively bargain – is enshrined in law under the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), as well as in the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution and California… pic.twitter.com/bFOKDkGpqQ— California Federation of Labor Unions (@CaliforniaLabor) March 24, 2025
Workers have the right to organize. Period. This right – of free assembly, to organize, to form a union and to collectively bargain – is enshrined in law under the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), as well as in the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution and California… pic.twitter.com/bFOKDkGpqQ
— California Federation of Labor Unions (@CaliforniaLabor) March 24, 2025
Colorado AFL-CIO:
Solidarity with our AFGE workers! Please join AFGE Local 3607 tomorrow, Wednesday, March 26th, 12-1pm at 1550 Wewatta Street, Denver to rally against the Trump administration’s extensive and brutal attacks on federal workers’ job security and livelihoods ✊ pic.twitter.com/koDZ9Ke6W8— Colorado AFL-CIO ✊ (@AFLCIOCO) March 25, 2025
Solidarity with our AFGE workers! Please join AFGE Local 3607 tomorrow, Wednesday, March 26th, 12-1pm at 1550 Wewatta Street, Denver to rally against the Trump administration’s extensive and brutal attacks on federal workers’ job security and livelihoods ✊ pic.twitter.com/koDZ9Ke6W8
— Colorado AFL-CIO ✊ (@AFLCIOCO) March 25, 2025
Connecticut AFL-CIO:
CT AFL-CIO President @EHawthorne3 testifying today on the need to make our tax structure more equitable:"We all know there's two Connecticuts – one for the rich, one for the poor." pic.twitter.com/rVAx5ciqXn— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) March 24, 2025
CT AFL-CIO President @EHawthorne3 testifying today on the need to make our tax structure more equitable:"We all know there's two Connecticuts – one for the rich, one for the poor." pic.twitter.com/rVAx5ciqXn
— Connecticut AFL-CIO (@ConnAFLCIO) March 24, 2025
Illinois AFL-CIO:
Marisa Richards, Director of Outreach and Engagement for the @GoIUPAT DC 30, joined the @AWFUnionPodcast to discuss her efforts in diversifying union membership and introducing the next generation to the trades at an early age.Listen here:https://t.co/40mSrW79ig pic.twitter.com/mWSEhv57o3— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) March 25, 2025
Marisa Richards, Director of Outreach and Engagement for the @GoIUPAT DC 30, joined the @AWFUnionPodcast to discuss her efforts in diversifying union membership and introducing the next generation to the trades at an early age.Listen here:https://t.co/40mSrW79ig pic.twitter.com/mWSEhv57o3
— Illinois AFL-CIO (@ILAFLCIO) March 25, 2025
Iowa Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO:
Senator @ChuckGrassley and his staff tried to keep his “town hall” in Hampton today quiet by not publishing it, but word got out. This is the overflow of people who couldn’t get into the event. People are sick and tired of the Trump/Musk agenda! @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/47QMVskUea— Iowa AFL-CIO ✊ (@IowaAFLCIO) March 21, 2025
Senator @ChuckGrassley and his staff tried to keep his “town hall” in Hampton today quiet by not publishing it, but word got out. This is the overflow of people who couldn’t get into the event. People are sick and tired of the Trump/Musk agenda! @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/47QMVskUea
— Iowa AFL-CIO ✊ (@IowaAFLCIO) March 21, 2025
Kentucky State AFL-CIO:
Stand up. Fight back. Walk-in!This morning, union members and community allies stood alongside educators and students during walk-ins across Kentucky, showing up to defend public schools and the people who make them strong. Watch out for more walk-ins through March 21 ✊ pic.twitter.com/QObp1tVUGR— Kentucky AFL-CIO (@aflcioky) March 19, 2025
Stand up. Fight back. Walk-in!This morning, union members and community allies stood alongside educators and students during walk-ins across Kentucky, showing up to defend public schools and the people who make them strong. Watch out for more walk-ins through March 21 ✊ pic.twitter.com/QObp1tVUGR
— Kentucky AFL-CIO (@aflcioky) March 19, 2025
Nurses and allies today marched into @SenatorCollins office to deliver a message loud & clear: Stand up for Maine People. Hands Off Medicaid! @NationalNurses pic.twitter.com/FMWj6CGFyq— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) March 20, 2025
Nurses and allies today marched into @SenatorCollins office to deliver a message loud & clear: Stand up for Maine People. Hands Off Medicaid! @NationalNurses pic.twitter.com/FMWj6CGFyq
— Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) March 20, 2025
Proud to stand with @RaiseUpMA in calling for billionaire global corporations to pay their fair share. #mapoliGroup behind 'millionaire's tax' calls for tax on 'billionaire' corporations https://t.co/oXPolgbwNg— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) March 25, 2025
Proud to stand with @RaiseUpMA in calling for billionaire global corporations to pay their fair share. #mapoliGroup behind 'millionaire's tax' calls for tax on 'billionaire' corporations https://t.co/oXPolgbwNg
— Massachusetts AFL-CIO (@massaflcio) March 25, 2025
Michigan State AFL-CIO:
How can you be patriotic when putting veterans’ benefits on the chopping block?You can't.Join us on Sat., March 29th in Ann Arbor to tell the draft-dodger in chief and Musk to put VA workers over billionaires. 🇺🇸✊RSVP here: https://t.co/lAS8DyeJQC pic.twitter.com/Xh3GsK9kHW— Michigan AFL-CIO ✊ (@MIAFLCIO) March 24, 2025
How can you be patriotic when putting veterans’ benefits on the chopping block?You can't.Join us on Sat., March 29th in Ann Arbor to tell the draft-dodger in chief and Musk to put VA workers over billionaires. 🇺🇸✊RSVP here: https://t.co/lAS8DyeJQC pic.twitter.com/Xh3GsK9kHW
— Michigan AFL-CIO ✊ (@MIAFLCIO) March 24, 2025
Minnesota AFL-CIO:
“We went into medicine because we want to take care of people, but at the heart of it, we just don’t think that great patient care should have to come at the expense of our well-being,” said Dr. Sofia Haile, a family medicine resident. #BetterInAUnion https://t.co/dCAw32KEOr— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) March 24, 2025
“We went into medicine because we want to take care of people, but at the heart of it, we just don’t think that great patient care should have to come at the expense of our well-being,” said Dr. Sofia Haile, a family medicine resident. #BetterInAUnion https://t.co/dCAw32KEOr
— Minnesota AFL-CIO (@MNAFLCIO) March 24, 2025
Missouri AFL-CIO:
Join us this Saturday, March 29th, for a Solidarity Rally in support of federal #Workers who have been impacted by recent federal cuts and power grabs! #Solidarity #1u #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/ayVDklQxM9— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) March 24, 2025
Join us this Saturday, March 29th, for a Solidarity Rally in support of federal #Workers who have been impacted by recent federal cuts and power grabs! #Solidarity #1u #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/ayVDklQxM9
— Missouri AFL-CIO (@MOAFLCIO) March 24, 2025
Nevada State AFL-CIO:
NALC branches hosted a rally yesterday to say: "Hell NO!" to dismantling the Postal Service.President Trump & Elon Musk need to keep their Hands off USPS! pic.twitter.com/4V7TYqbWZo— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) March 25, 2025
NALC branches hosted a rally yesterday to say: "Hell NO!" to dismantling the Postal Service.President Trump & Elon Musk need to keep their Hands off USPS! pic.twitter.com/4V7TYqbWZo
— Nevada State AFL-CIO // Pass the #PROAct (@NVAFLCIO) March 25, 2025
New York State AFL-CIO:
In 2023, women in NY earned 87 cents on the dollar compared to men according to a recent report by @NYSComptroller. The gender pay gap is unjust, and New York's union movement will never stop fighting to close it. #EqualPayDay pic.twitter.com/v1v1DKi9Rb— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) March 25, 2025
In 2023, women in NY earned 87 cents on the dollar compared to men according to a recent report by @NYSComptroller. The gender pay gap is unjust, and New York's union movement will never stop fighting to close it. #EqualPayDay pic.twitter.com/v1v1DKi9Rb
— NYS AFL-CIO // #UnionStrong (@NYSAFLCIO) March 25, 2025
North Carolina State AFL-CIO:
But seriously, @SenThomTillis, if it's money you need to show up, we've got five on it. 😜 Protestors gather outside NC Sen. Thom Tillis 2026 campaign fundraiser in Raleigh https://t.co/qXXUKLkyEL via @WNCN #1u— NC State AFL-CIO (@ncstateaflcio.bsky.social) (@NCStateAFLCIO) March 21, 2025
But seriously, @SenThomTillis, if it's money you need to show up, we've got five on it. 😜 Protestors gather outside NC Sen. Thom Tillis 2026 campaign fundraiser in Raleigh https://t.co/qXXUKLkyEL via @WNCN #1u
— NC State AFL-CIO (@ncstateaflcio.bsky.social) (@NCStateAFLCIO) March 21, 2025
Ohio AFL-CIO:
A few months ago, the #dropkickmurphys recorded a video in #Solidarity with the @ohiou faculty who were forming their #union with @AAUP @OFTunion. Today, those workers voted #UnionYes and joined the @AFLCIO labor movment. When workers across all professions unite, we win. pic.twitter.com/iCNO6T8szc— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) March 24, 2025
A few months ago, the #dropkickmurphys recorded a video in #Solidarity with the @ohiou faculty who were forming their #union with @AAUP @OFTunion. Today, those workers voted #UnionYes and joined the @AFLCIO labor movment. When workers across all professions unite, we win. pic.twitter.com/iCNO6T8szc
— Ohio AFL-CIO (@ohioaflcio) March 24, 2025
Oregon AFL-CIO:
On March 25, 1911, a fire at the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory in Greenwich, NY, killed 146 workers after their employers locked the fire escape doors to prevent workers from leaving, leading 15,000 workers to walk off the job in NY’s garment district.https://t.co/07LZyeNzOe pic.twitter.com/uu8QxTFxuD— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) March 25, 2025
On March 25, 1911, a fire at the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory in Greenwich, NY, killed 146 workers after their employers locked the fire escape doors to prevent workers from leaving, leading 15,000 workers to walk off the job in NY’s garment district.https://t.co/07LZyeNzOe pic.twitter.com/uu8QxTFxuD
— Oregon AFL-CIO (@OregonAFLCIO) March 25, 2025
🚨 The Texas Senate may vote on this bad bill as soon as TODAY. Help stand with Texas construction workers and tell your Senator to vote NO here: https://t.co/1RWzqWMYl8 #txlege #SB925 pic.twitter.com/1NEzi3uB3x— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) March 25, 2025
🚨 The Texas Senate may vote on this bad bill as soon as TODAY. Help stand with Texas construction workers and tell your Senator to vote NO here: https://t.co/1RWzqWMYl8 #txlege #SB925 pic.twitter.com/1NEzi3uB3x
— Texas AFL-CIO (@TexasAFLCIO) March 25, 2025
Wisconsin State AFL-CIO:
US Mail is Not for Sale. https://t.co/Voz8PsWo66— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) March 24, 2025
US Mail is Not for Sale. https://t.co/Voz8PsWo66
— WI AFL-CIO (@wisaflcio) March 24, 2025
Women's History Month Profiles
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.
Here are the members we've featured so far:
Tags: Women's History Month
Women's History Month Profiles: Deborah Toussant
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 Deborah Toussant of AFGE.
Deborah Toussant is the secretary-treasurer of AFGE Local 2094, the national women’s advisory coordinator of AFGE District 2 and the vice chair of AFGE’s National Human Rights Committee. She worked for the Veteran Affairs Medical Center in New York City for more than 34 years until she retired in 2019. She has continued her service and activism with AFGE and in her Harlem community. Toussant is a proud union woman who is willing to speak up for the voiceless and fight for civil, human, women’s and workers’ rights.
Service & Solidarity Spotlight: Skidmore Faculty Ratifies First Union Contract
Faculty represented by Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 200United at Skidmore College unanimously voted to ratify their first collective bargaining agreement (CBA) last week.
The new agreement between Skidmore Faculty Forward and the private liberal arts school covers full- and part-time faculty who are not on the tenure track. The core bargaining goal for members was longer renewable appointments—before the CBA, they worked on short contracts that lasted one to three years and then were terminated with no guarantee of being rehired. Fixing this serial job insecurity was a major highlight of the deal, in addition to increased salary minimums, full parental leave and more.
“We are elated that our first collective bargaining agreement has been ratified,” the union said in a statement. “We are incredibly proud of the hard work and thankful for the contributions, big and small, from so many of our colleagues and fellow union members. This contract would not be the life-changing and uplifting document that it is without their support. Thank you to the entire campus community for your support over the years. Together, we won huge gains and improvements in our working conditions and ultimately in our students’ learning conditions.”