AFL-CIO - Podcast Details

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Union StrongLobbying on Behalf of WorkersFighting on behalf of working people can take many forms, from organizing a union so workers have a voice on the job to getting involved in political campaigns to elect leaders who will fight for working people or participating in a rally or march to draw attention to an issue impacting workers. It can also take the form of lobbying—meeting with legislative representatives to discuss the issues that matter to workers. In this episode, we pull back the curtain on the Union Movement’s State Legislative Lobby Day. New York State AFL-CIO President Mario Cilento kicks off...2025-04-2119 min

Free Speech ArgumentsCan States Ban the Teaching of Some Controversial Concepts? (Local 8027, AFT-New Hampshire, AFL-CIO v. Edelblut)Episode 27: Local 8027, AFT-New Hampshire, AFL-CIO v. EdelblutLocal 8027, AFT-New Hampshire, AFL-CIO v. Edelblut, argued before Circuit Judge Lara Montecalvo, Senior Circuit Judge William J. Kayatta, Jr., and Circuit Judge Seth Aframe in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit on April 8, 2025. Argued by Charles G. Moerdler and Gilles R. Bissonnette (on behalf of Local 8027, AFT-New Hampshire, AFL-CIO, et al.) and Mary A. Triick, Senior Assistant Attorney General (on behalf of Edelblut, et al.).Case Background, from the Brief for Plaintiffs—Appellees Local 8027, AFT-New Hampshire, AFL-CIO:New Hampshire’s “Banned Concepts Law” (or th...2025-04-081h 00

Union StrongInvesting in the Workforce: NYS DOL Commissioner Breaks It DownOn the latest episode of the Union Strong podcast, we sit down with New York State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon to discuss the key workforce elements in the Governor's budget proposal, including worker protections, investments in childcare, workforce training initiatives, and more. Tune in for insights that could help shape the future of work. Website: https://dol.ny.gov/ Newsletter: https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/NYDOL/signup/44950 NYS AFL-CIO Legislative Priorities: https://nysaflcio.org/legislation 2025-03-1217 min

Union StrongLegislative Priorities 2025In this episode, we are diving into the legislative priorities of the Union Movement for 2025. Join us as we unpack the critical issues impacting workers today—from the rise of AI and its effect on jobs to the ongoing battle for pro-worker policies in the face of swift changes at the federal level. Our guest is New York State AFL-CIO Legislative Director Mike Neidl, who shares insights on the challenges ahead and how our legislative priorities will address them. See the NYS AFL-CIO 2025 Legislative Agenda: https://nysaflcio.org/legislation Sig...2025-02-1115 min

The Voice PodcastA conversation with New York AFL-CIO President Mario CilentoNew York AFL-CIO President Mario Cilento talks about his role in leading one of the most powerful state federations in the country on the latest episode of The Voice Podcast. Cilento and UUP President Fred Kowal, the podcast’s host, talk about Cilento's role in making the state AFL-CIO into a year-round legislative action network that has only grown stronger since he became president in 2011. The NYS AFL-CIO represents more than 2.2 million members across the state in both public and private sectors. They also discuss the November 2024 presidential election and the state AFL-CIO's role in helpin...2024-10-1854 min

News & ViewsAFL-CIO president Liz Shuler on why more workers are joining unions even in right-to-work statesAFL-CIO President Liz Shuler (Photo: AFL-CIO)North Carolina is and will, for the foreseeable future, remain a so-called “right-to-work” state in which laws make it extremely tough build workplace unions. Despite this enormous barrier, however, there’s growing evidence that interest in and support for organized labor in our state is enjoying a bit of a renaissance. With wages in many companies remaining low and flat, even as corporate profits and executive pay have soared, many North Carolina workers– especially younger workers – are rethinking unions. This reality was on display recently in Raleigh as the state AFL...2024-09-3014 min

Anchorage Unitarian Universalist Fellowship Forum PodcastsBallot Measure #1: Higher Minimum Wage, Paid Sick Leave and Worker Protections - AFL-CIO President Joelle Hall Joelle Hall is the President of the Alaska AFL-CIO, elected in 2020. She is the first woman to hold the role. Before her election, she served as the Alaska AFL-CIO Political Director for 11 years. Joelle has worked in Alaska politics for over 30 years, with an emphasis on electoral campaigns and advocacy work. She has built and managed large campaigns and community coalitions. Before coming to the AFL-CIO, Joelle was Executive Director of the Alaska Democratic Party and had her own consulting business for ten years. She has a bachelor’s degree in foreign languages from the University of Ala...2024-09-011h 19

The Leslie Marshall ShowAFL-CIO President Talks Worker Safety, Unions Expanding into the South, and Climate Change Policy SolutionsLeslie is joined by Liz Shuler, president of the 60 unions and 12.5 million members of the AFL-CIO, and the first woman leader of America’s labor movement. The two discuss the Union's 2024 'Death on the Job Report,' the recent UAW win in Tennessee and what it means for the broader Union movement in the South, as well as the Inaugural 'Climate, Equity and Jobs Launch' held by the AFL-CIO on Earth Day this year. The 2024 'Death on the Job Report' can be read here: https://aflcio.org/press/releases/afl-cio-releases-2024-death-job-report-ahead-workers-memorial-day A visionary leader an...2024-04-2722 min

The Leslie Marshall ShowAFL-CIO President Talks Worker Safety, Unions Expanding into the South, and Climate Change Policy SolutionsLeslie is joined by Liz Shuler, president of the 60 unions and 12.5 million members of the AFL-CIO, and the first woman leader of America’s labor movement.The two discuss the Union's 2024 'Death on the Job Report,' the recent UAW win in Tennessee and what it means for the broader Union movement in the South, as well as the Inaugural 'Climate, Equity and Jobs Launch' held by the AFL-CIO on Earth Day this year.The 2024 'Death on the Job Report' can be read here: https://aflcio.org/press/releases/afl-cio-releases-2024-death-job-report-ahead-workers-memorial-dayA visionary leader an...2024-04-2622 min

Labor History TodayMLK at the AFL-CIO in 1961 (Encore)Original airdate January 16, 2022 On December 11, 1961, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. spoke at the AFL-CIO’s Fourth Constitutional Convention at the Americana Hotel in Miami Beach, Florida. The speech is not long, just 30 minutes, but it’s tremendously historic, both in its content and its timing. In this speech, King connected the civil rights movement and labor movement, calling them “the two most dynamic and cohesive liberal forces in the country.” King encouraged the AFL-CIO to "help erase all vestiges of racial discrimination in American life, including labor unions," as well as to provide financial support to the civi...2024-01-211h 11

Union StrongLegislative Priorities 2024The 2024 Legislative Session is underway. On the latest Union Strong podcast we break down some of the priorities for the Union Movement with New York State AFL-CIO Legislative Director Mike Neidl. Stay up to date on NYS AFL-CIO legislative initiatives. 2024-01-1715 min

Union StrongOne-on-one with NYSUT’s New PresidentMelinda Person is an educator, mother of 4, yoga instructor, and Ironman triathlete. She serves as a member of the New York State AFL-CIO Executive Council, and she's the new president of the nearly 700 thousand-member New York State United Teachers – the largest union in the state. On the latest Union Strong podcast, Melinda talks about the top priorities for NYSUT, discusses some of the challenges ahead, and legislative goals for the coming year. 2023-10-1016 min

Union StrongThe State of Labor 2023On the latest Union Strong podcast, our guest is Mario Cilento, the President of the New York State AFL-CIO. In this wide-ranging interview, President Cilento talks about the energy he sees, right now, within the Union Movement and why we are seeing more workers making the difficult decision to strike. He discusses a critical new law passed in New York State that will remove a barrier to union organizing and reminds us of what being a union member means and how life-changing it can be. 2023-09-1324 min

Union Strong2023 Legislative SessionThe 2023 legislative session has come to an end and there are some big victories for workers including various worker protections and improved Workers’ Compensation. On the latest Union Strong podcast, our guest is the Legislative Director at the New York State AFL-CIO, Mike Neidl. Mike breaks down the list of legislative victories and explains what they mean to workers. See the 2023 End of Session Report See the 2023-24 Final Budget Breakdown 2023-06-2216 min

Union StrongWriters’ StrikeWe are celebrating our 100th episode by diving into the historic writers’ strike that is making headlines across the country. Our guest is the Executive Director of the Writers Guild of America East, Lowell Peterson, who will give us an overview of what this strike, by film and television writers, is all about. But first – to commemorate our 100th episode and look to the future of staying Union Strong, our guest is the President of the New York State AFL-CIO – Mario Cilento. Writers Guild of America East website: https://www.wgaeast.org/ Write...2023-05-1118 min $The Voice of Oregon\'s Workers$ The Voice of Oregon's WorkersThe Keep Oregon Workers Safe ActOn this episode of The Voice of Oregon’s Workers we talk with policy experts about Senate Bill 592, the Keep Oregon Workers Safe Act. This legislation is vitally important to improving workplace safety in Oregon, and as you’ll hear on the episode will increase penalties for employers who don’t address unsafe working conditions as well as provide other critical improvements to workplace safety regulations. Advocates from PCUN - Oregon’s farmworkers union, Oregon AFSCME, and the Oregon AFL-CIO discuss what dangers workers are facing on the job and how SB 592 will help increase safety in every workplace in our sta...2023-05-0424 min

Union StrongThermal Energy Networks; A Pipeline To Union JobsAs a union movement, the New York State AFL-CIO has been working with its affiliates to address climate change in a responsible way. On the latest Union Strong podcast, we discuss thermal energy networks and their role in decarbonizing state-owned campuses and facilities while creating a pipeline to union jobs. Our guest is John Murphy, International Representative for the United Association of Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Sprinkler Fitters in NY. Visit UpgradeNY.org to learn more. See Upgrade NY's budget letter to Governor Hochul. 2023-03-3011 min

Union StrongReducing Emissions While Protecting Good Jobs Addressing climate change presents all sorts of opportunities for workers and unions, but it also puts many good union jobs at risk of elimination which is why the state must maintain flexibility. As New York State continues to work to reduce emissions and combat climate change, the New York State AFL-CIO has made clear that protecting the rights and interests of workers and their unions must be a priority. On the latest Union Strong podcast, David Wasiura, Assistant to the Director of United Steel Workers District 4 discusses the importance of keeping good union manufacturing jobs...2023-03-2912 min

Union StrongThe Union Movement’s Climate GoalsCombating climate change while protecting workers is a top priority for the union movement, which is why the New York State AFL-CIO along with our affiliates have been involved every step of the way as the state moves toward achieving its ambitious clean energy goals laid out in the 2019 Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA). On the latest Union Strong podcast, New York State AFL-CIO President Mario Cilento discusses how the state can address climate change in a responsible way. 2023-03-2711 min

Union StrongProtecting Firefighting ServicesAn executive budget proposal aimed at improving the recruitment and retention of volunteer firefighters may have good intentions, but could have unintended consequences that jeopardize public safety. On the latest Union Strong podcast, Sam Fresina, President of the New York State Professional Firefighters Association explains why paying volunteer firefighters a “nominal fee” is a bad idea. See the NYS AFL-CIO oppose memo. 2023-03-1415 min

Union StrongLabor’s Legislative PrioritiesWith well over 10 thousand bills introduced during the two-year legislative cycle in New York State and a $227 billion budget, there is a long list of issues that impact workers and the union movement. On this podcast, New York State AFL-CIO Legislative Director Mike Neidl explains how the state federation formulates our legislative agenda and discusses some of our top priorities for this legislative session. See our legislative agenda, support/oppose memos and more. Stay up to date on minimum wage lobbying efforts. 2023-02-2820 min

Union StrongHow to Buy Union and Buy American this Holiday SeasonWe know from a recently released survey that 76 percent of consumers prefer to buy American-made products, but where do you find them? Our guest from the Alliance for American Manufacturing has an entire holiday gift guide of Made in America items. And we’ll tell you where to find union-made gifts, food, and drinks to make it a holiday that not only supports workers but will help create good union jobs. AAM's 2022 Made in America Holiday Gift Guide AAM's Made in America Directory AFL-CIO's Union-Made Resources 2022-12-0712 min $The Voice of Oregon\'s Workers$ The Voice of Oregon's WorkersThe Clean Energy Future MUST Be Union MadeOn this month’s episode of The Voice of Oregon’s Workers we bring you a captivating panel discussion from the 2022 Oregon AFL-CIO convention titled The Clean Energy Future MUST Be Union Made. The panelists on this episode are Ranfis Villatoro from the Blue Green Alliance, Rick Levy, President of the Texas AFL-CIO, Carol Zabin from the UC Berkeley Labor Center and Micah Mitrosky from the IBEW. In Oregon and across the country, we recognize that the clean energy future is upon us and as union members, we have a strategic and moral imperative to be at the c...2022-10-1158 min

Union StrongThe Union Strong VoteCandidates seeking the endorsement of the New York State AFL-CIO must meet a high threshold of support. On the latest Union Strong podcast, we break down the endorsement process with our guests; Ryan Delgado, Political Director and Chief of Staff at the federation and Jenn Puja, the Executive Director of the Westchester/Putnam Central Labor Body. We also discuss what’s at stake in the general election and how union members are making their voices heard. Get voter info and find out how you can get involved NYS AFL-CIO 2022 Endorsements 2022-10-0316 min

Union StrongLegislative Wrap Up 2022Workers won big in the 2022 legislative session. The list of victories includes workplace health and safety protections, improvements to labor rights and pensions, and the creation of good-paying jobs as we address climate change. On the latest Union Strong podcast, New York State AFL-CIO Legislative Director Mike Neidl breaks it all down for us to explain what these changes will mean for working people and their families. See the 2022 End of Session Report Get tickets for Union Strong Night at The New York Yankees (July 29th) Get tickets for Union Strong...2022-07-1816 min

Empathy Media LabLIVE from the AFL-CIO convention!Welcome to the Labor Radio Podcast Daily, a special edition of the Labor Radio Podcast Weekly. Empathy Media Lab has partnered with the LRPN to capture the voices of the global trade union movement. We’re here in Philadelphia at the AFL-CIO Convention, where thousands of union leaders and members have gathered to celebrate the strength of the federation’s 56 affiliated unions and 12.5 million members, honor the souls lost and renew the movement’s commitment to build back better with unions. Hosted by American Income Life, the Labor Radio Podcast Network will be interviewing convention attende...2022-06-1428 min

Union StrongFix Tier 6The state of New York has lost thousands of public sector workers over the past decade. Recruiting and retaining public employees is reaching a crisis level. In addition, dedicated public sector workers who risked their lives during the pandemic could be inadvertently penalized for the overtime they worked throughout the crisis. On the latest Union Strong podcast, we talk about reforming the state’s pension system, to address these issues. New York State AFL-CIO Legislative Director Mike Neidl is our guest. Learn more about...2022-03-2811 min

Union StrongOverworked and Underpaid at a Nursing Home in Lewiston, NYNursing home workers at Our Lady of Peace in Lewiston, New York held a one-day strike to draw attention to their contract fight over fair wages. Tomorrow, that fight moves to St. Louis Missouri. The nursing home workers are represented by 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East and have been without a contract since December 31, 2021. Already hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic, these caregivers are now working critically short-staffed while their employer, Ascension Living shuts down units and threatens layoffs. On the latest Union Strong Podcast, a worker describes the conditions inside th...2022-03-1327 min

Union StrongCOVID at Work, Know Your RightsWorking New Yorkers have put themselves at risk throughout this entire pandemic. Many workers died after being exposed to the virus on the job and countless others became ill. And now, as we reach the 2-year mark since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are learning more about long-haul symptoms. That’s why the New York State AFL-CIO wants to help get the word out on how critical it is for every worker who believes they were exposed to COVID-19 at work, to file a claim with the Workers’ Compensation Board. ...2022-02-2120 min $The Voice of Oregon\'s Workers$ The Voice of Oregon's WorkersInterview with State Representative & Union Firefighter Dacia GrayberJoining us for this month’s podcast is State Representative Dacia Grayber, a union firefighter who represents House District 35 and who was named the 2020-2021 Oregon AFL-CIO Freshman of the Year for her leadership and advocacy on behalf of Oregon’s workers in the legislature. Links to items discussed in this episode:Oregon Labor Candidate SchoolEmerge Oregon 2022-02-2129 min $The Voice of Oregon\'s Workers$ The Voice of Oregon's WorkersOregon Labor's 2022 Legislative PrioritiesOn this month’s episode of The Voice of Oregon’s Workers we talk with the Oregon AFL-CIO Political and Legislative team about the 2022 Oregon Legislature. Learn about Oregon Labor’s priorities, how the upcoming election will impact the session, and what it takes for an idea to become a law in Oregon. The Oregon Labor Movement is ready to advocate for legislation that builds a fair and just economy for all workers in Oregon during the 2022 legislative session. We know that as the pandemic continues to disrupt our lives, it’s more important than ever to ensure wor...2022-01-2820 min

Union StrongHonoring MLKVoting rights were a cornerstone of Martin Luther King Jr's legacy. On the latest episode of the Union Strong podcast we discuss the current state of voting rights in this country and what Dr. King might have to say about it if he was with us today. New York State AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Terry Melvin is our guest as we discuss the meaning of Martin Luther King Day and Dr. King's connection to the union movement. Secretary-Treasurer Melvin also talks about how we can honor Dr. King and what we can learn from his many speeches and writings. Visit The King Center onl...2022-01-1619 min

Union StrongFairness for FarmworkersFor most workers, overtime pay after 40 hours was a victory won over 80 years ago, but shockingly for farmworkers it’s a battle still being fought. Farmworkers in New York State won some very basic rights in 2019 with passage of the Farmworkers Fair Labor Practices Act. Those rights which the New York State AFL-CIO had been fighting for, for years include: the right to organize a union, a mandatory day of rest, and the right to overtime pay. But the overtime threshold remains unfairly high at 60 hours per week. On the latest Union...2021-12-0121 min

Union StrongOperation Union Veterans DayOn the latest episode of the Union Strong podcast, we learn how unions are helping veterans find a pathway to the American dream. Our guest is Will Attig who is a U.S. Army Veteran and serves as the Executive Director of the Union Veterans Council at the AFL-CIO. Will discusses the benefits of belonging to the Union Veterans Council and how it helps veterans transition from military service to civilian life and a solid middle class job. 2021-11-1017 min $The Voice of Oregon\'s Workers$ The Voice of Oregon's WorkersStriketober & Safe Video Productions: A Conversation with IATSE Local 488Television and video productions create the stories that we all love, from Hollywood blockbusters to runaway cult classic television shows. The wave of strikes and strike authorizations now known as Striketober was significantly propelled this month by IATSE members across the country and in Oregon demanding several on and off-set basics: Fair wages and rest breaks to name a few. While their contract was settled with a recent tentative agreement at the bargaining table, Striketober continues. We’re seeing workers stand up and fight for fair contracts across the county, and basic workplace safety is critical for a fair cont...2021-10-2826 min

Union StrongLabor Day 2021Newly elected AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler joins us on the Union Strong podcast to talk about Labor’s priorities and what’s behind the growing support of labor unions. 2021-09-0514 min

Union Free RadioUnion Free Radio, Ep 13: SSDD—The AFL-CIO’s New President, Renaming the PRO Act & The Truth About CEO PayLast week, the nation's union bosses selected a new AFL-CIO president. For those who were hoping for a union movement that is less reliant on politics, it doesn’t appear that’s going to be happening anytime soonLast Friday, the AFL-CIO Executive Council---the 'board of directors' for the nation's largest union federation---selected Secretary-Treasurer Elizabeth Shuler to replace Richard Trumka, who died earlier this month from an apparent heart attack.By choosing Shuler and, as well based on her first interview, the federation signaled its continuation of focusing on political outc...2021-08-2516 min

The World of Multiemployer Benefit Funds PodcastMeet the AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer, Liz ShulerDid you know that the labor movement is the largest organization of working women in the nation? On December 11, 1961, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr told the AFL-CIO, “The two most dynamic and cohesive liberal forces in the country are the labor movement and the Negro Freedom movement. Together, we can be architects of democracy.” Liz Shuler, Secretary-Treasurer of the AFL-CIO, joins Traci on the podcast to talk about how the labor movement and the AFL-CIO are supporting women, minorities, and the next generation of workers.Some highlights from Meet the AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer, Liz Shuler include:03:01 – Liz’s...2021-07-2928 min

Union StrongLabor’s role in the fight for social, racial, and economic justiceOne year ago, the New York State AFL-CIO created a Social Justice Task Force to serve as a forum for frank and honest dialogue, and more importantly a vehicle for real and meaningful change to make our society and our movement more equitable and just for New Yorkers of color. On the latest episode of the Union Strong podcast, CSEA Executive Vice President Denise Berkley is our guest. As a member of the Social Justice Task Force, Denise shares some insights on the work being done and talks about what it takes to build a more perfect...2021-07-2717 min $The Voice of Oregon\'s Workers$ The Voice of Oregon's WorkersGrowing Oregon’s Union Movement: Interpreters & State Legislative StaffOur latest podcast dives into two inspiring union organizing campaigns in Oregon:The Oregon Interpreters in Action, who voted yes to join Oregon AFSCME and were recognized by the State of Oregon on April 23 and the staff of our own Oregon State Legislature who voted yes to join IBEW Local 89 a month later on May 28 and soon made national headlines as the first state legislative staff union in the country. These wins are part of a wave in our country: Workers are gaining long overdue leverage from employers, union favorability remains at the top of a...2021-07-0138 min

Union Strong2021 Legislative Wrap UpThe labor movement had a lengthy agenda going into the 2021 legislative session, particularly because of the fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic. On the latest episode of the Union Strong podcast, we look back at what was an incredibly successful year for labor. New York State AFL-CIO President Mario Cilento is our special guest. Detailed breakdown can be found at https://online.flippingbook.com/view/134090400/ 2021-06-3021 min

Working PeopleWhy Is Trumka Going After Vermont AFL-CIO? (w/ David Van Deusen)Over the past couple years, the Vermont State AFL-CIO and its membership have embraced a more democratic, rank-and-file strategy, building up bonds of solidarity with community organizations, and bringing much-needed energy into a labor council that was on the verge of dying. Instead of commending and encouraging these efforts, however, the AFL-CIO national and AFL-CIO president Richard Trumka are monitoring, investigating, and threatening "further action" against the Vermont labor council. Why? We talk with David Van Deusen, President of the Vermont State Labor Council, AFL-CIO. Additional links/info below... Vermont State Labor Council, AFL-CIO website, Facebook pa...2021-05-2029 min

Welcome to UniontownEpisode 09 - Susan MinatoKicking off API History Month, we’re joined by co-president of UNITE HERE Local 11, Susan Minato, on this episode of Welcome to Uniontown. We learn about how her career took her from labor lawyer to labor organizer, her philosophy behind her organizing, her thoughts on how our country can address anti-Asian hate crimes, and her message for the LA Fed’s Policy Director, Rob Nothoff. A podcast from the Los Angeles County of Labor, AFL-CIO. Produced by Hugo Romero, Christian Castro, and Scarlett Ying Sound Editing: Jared Batty (of IATSE Local 33) Mu...2021-05-1137 min

Welcome to UniontownEpisode 08 - Senator Alex PadillaLA's very own U.S. Senator (and former intern of the LA Fed) Alex Padilla joins us on this episode of Welcome to Uniontown to talk about his new role in DC as our junior Senator and discuss the PRO Act. We learn about his background as the proud son of immigrants from Mexico living in the Valley (his father a short-order cook and UNITE HERE Local 11 member, his mother a housekeeper), his degree in Mechanical Engineering from MIT, his journey in politics, and who at the LA Fed currently works in his old office. A podcast f...2021-04-2941 min

Union StrongState Budget; A Win For Working PeopleThe New York State budget for 2021-2022 addresses a health and economic crisis like we have never experienced. Fortunately, the President's American Rescue Plan, which labor supported, was enacted. It provided $350 billion in aid to state and local governments. On this podcast, the President of the New York State AFL-CIO, Mario Cilento talks about how the solidarity of the Labor Movement led to historic victories for working people, from revenue raisers to new industries and much more. 2021-04-2124 min

Union StrongPassing the PRO ActWorkers in America favor unions and tens of millions of Americans want to join one. So, what is stopping them? Our labor laws are outdated. On this podcast we take a deep dive into a generational opportunity that is on our doorstep; passing the Protecting the Right to Organize Act, also known as the PRO Act. New York State AFL-CIO Chief of Staff Ryan Delgado joins the podcast to explain what the PRO Act is, why it is so important to working people and the opportunity to get it passed. 2021-04-0716 min

Welcome to UniontownEpisode 07: Dr. Melina AbdullahProfessor and proud California Faculty Association union member, Dr. Melina Abdullah joins us on this episode of Welcome to Uniontown. From recounting her roots in labor that sparked her childhood love of unions to discussing sacrifices endured by grassroots organizers, we learn what has inspired and shaped her field of study as an academic scholar, her teachings as an educator, and her activism as a Co-Founder of Black Lives Matter - Los Angeles. A podcast from the Los Angeles County of Labor, AFL-CIO. Produced by Hugo Romero, Christian Castro, and Scarlett Ying S...2021-03-3146 min $The Voice of Oregon\'s Workers$ The Voice of Oregon's WorkersPrevailing Wage 101: Defending Workers’ Rights on Public Construction ProjectsOn the March 2021 episode of The Voice of Oregon’s Workers, we’re pulling together research, legislation, and Oregon’s building and construction trade unions to talk about Oregon’s Prevailing Wage Rate law. Prevailing Wage ensures building and construction trades workers employed on public projects are paid fairly, and have access to benefits.Oregon and many other states have a serious need for public works projects: Our aging school and government buildings are in need of retrofitting and updates to ensure we can keep folks safe from diseases like COVID-19. Our roads, bridges, water systems, electrical grids and...2021-03-2633 min

Union StrongWe cannot cut our way out of this crisisThe New York State AFL-CIO recently held a labor revenue forum to discuss the impact of the pandemic and the vital need for new revenue sources. On this podcast, Ron Deutsch, Executive Director of New Yorkers for Fiscal Fairness lays out the backdrop of what we are facing during this pandemic and explains how New York can raise needed revenue and restore fairness in the tax code. Then union members and leaders from across the state from all different lines of work share what they have endured during the COVID crisis and why adequate state...2021-03-1037 min

Welcome to UniontownEpisode 06: Julián CastroJulián Castro, former Mayor of San Antonio, Texas and President Obama's Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, joined us back in early February, prior to the storms in Texas, for this episode of Welcome to Uniontown. We hear about the inspirational women in his life, his thoughts on the importance of building bridges between communities of color in activist spaces, and his answer to the critical question: In & Out or Whataburger? A podcast from the Los Angeles County of Labor, AFL-CIO. Produced by Hugo Romero, Christian Castro, and Scarlett Ying Soun...2021-03-0828 min $The Voice of Oregon\'s Workers$ The Voice of Oregon's WorkersThe Intersections of JusticeIn this episode we discuss how Oregon unions and worker advocates are approaching social and racial justice and the intersection of the fight for civil and economic rights. Get the inside scoop on how Oregon AFSCME is training members to be advocates for social and racial justice, and learn more about the Oregon AFL-CIO’s vision for a truly antiracist and equitable labor movement. To learn more about Oregon AFSCME, please visit www.oregonafscme.org To learn more about the Oregon AFL-CIO & find racial justice resources for your union, please visit www.oraflcio.org/racialjustice Guests 2021-02-2530 min

Welcome to UniontownEpisode 05: Rev. James M. Lawson Jr.In this episode of Welcome to Uniontown, we're joined by activist and scholar Reverend James M. Lawson Jr., who was a leading theoretician and tactician of nonviolence within the Civil Rights movement. We learn the reason he left the South to come to Los Angeles, look back on his memories of getting arrested with CA State Senator (and former LA Fed President) Maria Elena Durazo, and hear the advice he has to bestow to young organizers. A podcast from the Los Angeles County of Labor, AFL-CIO. Produced by Hugo Romero, Christian Castro, and Sca...2021-02-2237 min $The Voice of Oregon\'s Workers$ The Voice of Oregon's WorkersAn Inside Look at Oregon Labor Legislative AdvocacyWe’re kicking off 2021 with an inside look at how Oregon unions plan to make progress for workers in our state legislature! Oregon AFL-CIO Political Director Jess Giannettino Villatoro and Lead Political & Policy Strategist Catie Theisen share their depth of advocacy experience and what they expect to see happen in Salem - even if it’s all on Zoom - this year. We discuss priority bills, the threat of violent extremism at the capital, and how union members can make a huge difference in passing critical policies by speaking out. Discussed in this episode:2021 Oregon...2021-01-2927 min

Union StrongA step toward diversifying union leadershipLearning from a diverse group of union leaders from all different sectors of the Labor Movement is powerful and rewarding. It is part of what takes place at the New York State AFL-CIO/Cornell Union Leadership Institute (ULI). On this podcast, DC 37 Director of Field Operations Barbara Terrelonge talks about her own experience going through the ULI program including memorable car rides that made all the difference. And NYS AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Terry Melvin announces a new union scholarship the state federation is offering for prospective union leaders to ULI. Scholarship information at nysaflcio...2021-01-2824 min

Union StrongLabor’s 2021 Legislative AgendaOn this podcast our guest is Mike Neidl, Legislative Director at the NYS AFL-CIO. Mike will go over labor’s 2021 legislative agenda which was unanimously passed by the New York State AFL-CIO Executive Board earlier this month. The agenda focuses on lifting up working people by putting in place protections for essential workers and providing support for all workers who continue to suffer as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. Labor’s priorities also include revenue raisers to address the budget deficit and a plan to ensure gig economy workers have the same basic rights and...2020-12-2217 min $The Voice of Oregon\'s Workers$ The Voice of Oregon's WorkersWorking People Made It Happen: Winning Elections & Making Work SafeOn our last episode of the year, we talk with Oregon AFL-CIO President Graham Trainor to look at how Oregon’s unions stepped up in 2020. From winning for workers at the ballot box to advocating for workplace safety measures against COVID-19, it has been a year of standing together - united against the challenges of 2020. We also discuss how the lessons learned in 2020 will help push the Oregon Labor Movement to new heights in 2021 and beyond. Discussed in this episode:Phone Bank for Georgia Senate Races: https://bit.ly/oregon2georgiaLearn about Oregon OSHA Emergency Temporary Stand...2020-12-1130 min

Union StrongWhat a Biden Presidency will mean for working peopleThe voters have spoken – Democracy is prevailing. President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris are already moving our country forward with plans to beat COVID-19, and get our economy back on track by putting working people first. On this podcast New York State AFL-CIO President Mario Cilento breaks down what the Biden Presidency means for working people and what it will mean for New York State.2020-11-1133 min

Welcome to UniontownEpisode 04: Richard TrumkaWe welcome America's highest-ranking union leader Richard Trumka, AFL-CIO President, to Uniontown. He looks back on his days as a mineworker, explains why labor is not at odds with environmental rights, and reflects on how his first childhood lesson from his father about racism leads to his conclusion that America can't just be built back, but must be built back better. A podcast from the Los Angeles County of Labor, AFL-CIO.Produced by Hugo Romero, Christian Castro, and Scarlett YingSound Editing: Jared Batty (of IATSE Local 33)Music: The N...2020-11-0150 min

Welcome to UniontownEpisode 03: Maxine WatersWe welcome inspirational role model Congressmember "Aunty" Maxine Waters to Uniontown. She joins us not just to discuss her early days as a garment worker to a transformational leader in Los Angeles and our country, but ALSO to pull the receipts on her haters and the current administration. A podcast from the Los Angeles County of Labor, AFL-CIO.Produced by Hugo Romero, Christian Castro, and Scarlett YingSound Editing: Jared Batty (of IATSE Local 33)Music: The Nightwatchman - Union Town. Special thanks to Tom Morello (of Rage Against the M...2020-11-0145 min

Welcome to UniontownEpisode 02: James P. HoffaIn this episode of Welcome to Uniontown, we're joined by James P. Hoffa, who has led the International Brotherhood of Teamsters since 1998 - the second longest-serving President in Teamsters' history. We journey into the past to his days as a football player, take a look at the evolution of the Teamsters during his leadership, discuss the war on workers, and get his thoughts on the Trump administration and Election 2020. A podcast from the Los Angeles County of Labor, AFL-CIO.Produced by Hugo Romero, Christian Castro, and Scarlett Ying.Music: The Nightwatchman...2020-10-2043 min

Union StrongLabor 2020With just weeks to go before the general election, we hear from a labor activist who also ran her own successful political campaign on the importance of getting out the vote. Westchester/Putnam Central Labor Council Director Jenn Puja talks about the power behind labor’s endorsement, running for office as a woman and a mother of two, and why it’s so important to get involved. NYS AFL-CIO Chief of Staff Ryan Delgado also joins the podcast to talk about what’s at stake in the upcoming election and what labor is doing to ensure a victory for our en...2020-10-1420 min

Welcome to UniontownEpisode 01: Dolores HuertaThis week on Welcome to Uniontown, iconic labor leader Dolores Huerta sits down with podcast host Los Angeles County Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO President Ron Hererra and co-host Political Coordinator Hugo Romero to share little-known aspects of her early life and her beginnings in the movement. From her storied partnership with Cesar Chavez to her interactions with James Hoffa and Robert Kennedy. The episode brings in inspiring insights, humor, and anecdotes that allow a rare window into her legendary life. A podcast from the Los Angeles County of Labor, AFL-CIO.Sound Editing: Jared Batt...2020-09-0748 min

Union StrongLabor Day 2020 – Where we have been and where we need to goEach year on Labor Day we recognize and honor the incredible achievements and many contributions of working people. This year however is like no other. While we still honor the hard work of working people, the unemployment rate in New York State is at nearly 16 percent, workers fear about their safety on the job and the safety of their families. Parents struggle with whether to send their children back to school and many families struggle with how to pay for housing and food. And, an alarming number of workers have died or become ill after being exposed to the...2020-09-0721 min

Welcome to UniontownEpisode 00: Ron HerreraOn this special sneak preview episode, Los Angeles County Federation of Labor President Ron Herrera welcomes you to Uniontown. A podcast from the Los Angeles County of Labor, AFL-CIO.Sound Editing: Jared Batty (of IATSE Local 33)Music: The Nightwatchman - Union Town. Special thanks to Tom Morello (of Rage Against the Machine and proud AFM Local 47 union member) for providing us with the music from his solo project.Art: Otha Davis III aka Vakseen 2020-09-0527 min $The Voice of Oregon\'s Workers$ The Voice of Oregon's WorkersPass the HEROES ActAmerica faces a crisis on three critical fronts: a public health pandemic, an economic free fall and long-standing structural racism. Working people need safe jobs, economic security and freedom from systemic racism. Delivering on economic essentials included in the HEROES Act is an absolute minimum requirement for stopping the free fall into even deeper and deadly racial inequality.On this episode of The Voice of Oregon's Workers we bring you to a virtual town hall held on July 24 with U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, Oregon AFL-CIO President Graham Trainor, and a panel of frontline workers to discuss...2020-08-0151 min $The Voice of Oregon\'s Workers$ The Voice of Oregon's WorkersBlack Lives MatterOn our June 2020 episode of The Voice of Oregon’s Workers, we catch up with Lamar Wise, a Political Coordinator with Oregon AFSCME and an organizer on the frontlines of the Black Lives Matter movement with Rose City Justice. Learn about how Black Lives Matter demonstrators are adapting to the COVID-19 pandemic, linking protests to local policies, and building an incredibly inspiring and crucial movement from the ground up. To support Black-led organizations mentioned in this episode, please visit the following links:Rose City Justice: http://rosecityjusticecrc.org/Black Resilience Fund: https://www.blackresiliencefund.com/P...2020-06-1927 min

Union StrongRacial InjusticeThe horrific and senseless death of George Floyd has left us all reeling and during an already uncertain time. As a labor movement, we have always fought for equality, justice, and for civil rights. We must continue to stand united against the hatred that divides us, and instead stand together in peace. Let’s use this moment of unimaginable pain to bring us all together. On this podcast you will hear from the President of the New York State AFL-CIO, Mario Cilento and our Secretary-Treasurer Terry Melvin who is also the President of th...2020-06-1032 min

Union Strong2020 ElectionsKeeping voters safe during the coronavirus pandemic has led to procedural changes. NYS AFL-CIO Chief of Staff Ryan Delgado explains what you need to know to make sure your vote counts. 2020-06-0320 min $The Voice of Oregon\'s Workers$ The Voice of Oregon's WorkersInterview with State Senator Shemia FaganOn this month's episode, we interview State Senator and candidate for Oregon Secretary of State Shemia Fagan! A proven progressive champion with a long history of fighting for working people, Senator Fagan puts advocating for workers first and has earned the Oregon AFL-CIO's endorsement for Secretary of State.Her work as a public servant includes raising the minimum wage, expanding paid sick leave, creating a paid family medical leave program, and passing a historic law protecting workers from sexual harassment and discrimination at work. Learn more at Shemiafororegon.com.The Oregon 2020 Primary E...2020-05-1232 min