Shows
The BCTGM Voices Project040: The Past, Present and Future of BCTGM Tobacco Industry WorkersFollowing a brief journey through the history of the Tobacco Workers International Union (TWIU), we review what led to its merger with the Bakery and Confectionery Workers International Union in 1978.
Leaders at three different BCTGM Tobacco Local Unions then discuss the current status of the tobacco industry, its Union density in the South, the effects of the changing culture around tobacco use, and a little about the differences in tobacco products that are BCTGM-made in Canada vs. the United States.
Guests:
Aaron Graves, JTI Liggett, President, BCTGM Local 176T / International General Executive Board Member
P...2025-07-0142 min
Labor Radio-Podcast DailySugar, Strikes, and ShortsOn today’s Labor Radio Podcast Daily: Inside the sugar production line with the Bakery Workers Union’s BCTGM Voices Project. In the labor arts world, Bargaining Shorts screen at California’s Reel Work Labor Film Festival. On this day in labor history: Philadelphia’s longest transit strike ends after 44 days. And today’s labor quote comes from Equity’s Andrea Hoeschen on the fight at The Second City in Chicago.
@BCTGM @wpfwdc @AFLCIO #1u #UnionStrong #LaborRadioPod
Proud founding member of the Labor Radio Podcast Network
2025-05-0702 min
Labor Radio-Podcast WeeklyWork Week Radio; Work Stoppage; Union Talk; BCTGM Voices Project; Tales from the Reuther Library; Buwa Basebetsi UpdatesThis Week on the Labor Radio Podcast Weekly: From San Francisco to South Africa, this week’s show brings you powerful stories of labor resistance, solidarity, and organizing across borders.
WorkWeek Radio takes us to a San Francisco ICE rally demanding the release of detained student activist Mahmoud Khalil, then dives into the fight for Medicare and Medicaid with Dr. Ana Manilow ahead of a national day of action for single payer on May 31.
Work Stoppage rounds up headlines from workers organizing at PetSmart, Kroger, the Port of Casablanca and more, with a deep dive into the misclassification cr...2025-05-0334 minThe BCTGM Voices Project039: BCTGM Sugar Locals on Milling, Refining and Having a Voice at the TableMost people believe the sugar they use and consume everyday comes from sugarcane, but in the United States about 60% of it is Union-made from sugar beets in the cooler climates of the northern Midwest and Western regions of the country.
BCTGM members in Michigan, North Dakota, Montana, Minnesota, Idaho and Wyoming process nearly 100% of the sugar from sugar beets – for companies like Michigan Sugar, Amalgamated Sugar, Wyoming Sugar, Southern Minnesota Beet Sugar Cooperative, American Crystal and Sidney Sugar. Much of it ends up in bags on your grocery shelves, but a lot also goes into other food pr...2025-04-2715 minThe BCTGM Voices Project039: BCTGM Sugar Locals on Milling, Refining and Having a Voice at the TableMost people believe the sugar they use and consume everyday comes from sugarcane, but in the United States about 60% of it is Union-made from sugar beets in the cooler climates of the northern Midwest and Western Regions of the country.
BCTGM members in Michigan, North Dakota, Montana, Minnesota, Idaho and Wyoming process nearly 100% of the sugar from sugar beets – for companies like Michigan Sugar, Amalgamated Sugar, Wyoming Sugar, Southern Minn. Beet Sugar Cooperative, American Crystal and Sidney Sugar. Much of it ends up in bags on your grocery shelves, but a lot also goes into other Union-made pr...2025-04-2722 min
Labor Radio-Podcast WeeklyBoiling Point; El Cafecito del Día; BCTGM Voices Project; Stuck Nation; Labor Radio on KBOO FM; The Teamster ViewOn this week’s Labor Radio Podcast Weekly: On the Boiling Point podcast, Michelle updates us on the trials and tribulations of AFGE, the American Federation of Government Employees; from El Cafecito del Día, the impact of Trump’s Executive Orders on DEI programs; New year, new legislative challenges, on the BCTGM Voices Project, the podcast from the bakery workers’ union; In the first of our Black History Month segments, from 2025-02-1434 minThe BCTGM Voices Project038: New Year, New Legislative Challenges | How BCTGM Local Unions in Right-to-Work States are Insulating their Union Culture with Internal OrganizingDifferent than the external act of going into facilities where there is no union and attempting to start one—Internal Organizing is fundamentally about building a union culture in your workplace where, when given the choice to belong or opt out of the Union, workers would ultimately desire to be a part of it.
This is the only way to strengthen our Local Unions against the rising threat of Right-to-Work laws. Learn how BCTGM local Unions are doing it in the Right to Work states of Indiana, Kentucky and Oklahoma.
We hear from:
David Woods...2025-02-081h 02The BCTGM Voices Project037: History of Political Action in Labor and the BCTGM, with Labor Historian Joe McCartin and BCTGM Organizing Director John PriceLearn the legislative and political challenges of Labor in the last century, which inform the BCTGM's political positions today.
We hear from:
Joe McCartin, Georgetown Univ. Professor, Executive Director of Kalmanovitz Initiative fo Labor and the Working Poor
John Price, BCTGM Director of Organization
References from this episode:
Collision Course: Ronald Reagan, the Air Traffic Controllers, and the Strike that Changed America - Book by Joe McCartin
Labor’s Great War: The Struggle for Industrial Democracy and the Origins of Modern American Labor Relations, 1912-1921 - Book by Joe McCartin
Bargaining for the Com...2024-11-0240 minLabor Radio-Podcast WeeklyLabor Exchange; UFCW 3000 Podcast; UAW 1700 Podcast; BCTGM Voices ProjectOn this week’s show: labor policy analyst Sophie Mariam, on The rise of union curious: Support for unionization among America’s frontline workers, on the Labor Exchange; the UFCW 3000 podcast reports on Macy's unfair labor practice strikes; then, Is Stellantis planning to send jobs from Sterling Heights to a plant in Mexico? We find out, on the UAW 1700 podcast;
Mike and Committee members discuss new information they’ve received; In our final segment, from the BCTGM Voices Project, bakery workers union retirees got welcome news on July 22, when union president Anthony Shelton sent out a memo announcing: "Our mo...2024-08-0928 minThe BCTGM Voices Project036: PENSIONS PROTECTED | BCTGM Leaders Retell What Happened to our Pensions, How they Were Saved and What to Expect Going ForwardOn July 22, 2024 a wire transfer of $3.3 billion in relief funds from the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC) to the B&C Industry International Pension Fund was completed. The fight for the Butch Lewis Act - which began in 2017 and passed as a pension provision in the 2021 American Rescue Plan - was realized.
President Shelton sent a memo to U.S. BCTGM Local Unions that day announcing: "Our money is in the bank. The promise of pension reform has been realized for more than 100,000 BCTGM retirees."
We hear from BCTGM Leaders who worked for many years...2024-08-0139 minLabor Radio-Podcast WeeklyWork Stoppage; BCTGM Voices Project; America’s Workforce Radio; Solidarity Works; Resolved Labor PodcastVW workers in Chattanooga win a historic union vote to join the UAW; Workers file for election in London, Kentucky; Roland "Rex" Rexha on the Francis Scott Key Bridge incident; Health and safety wins in Washington, and a profile of labor organizer and activist Jonathan Melrod.
This week’s featured shows are Work Stoppage, the podcast that only talks about what can be done for the working class. They’re here to demolish corporate ladders and chew bubblegum. And they don't even like bubblegum. BCTGM Voices Project, the podcast from the Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Mill...2024-04-2629 minThe BCTGM Voices Project035: Organizing Hearthside: Organizers and Workers in McComb, Oh., London, Ky. and Michigan City, Ind. discuss hope and challenges of joining the BCTGMGet the decades-long backstory on this multi-location organizing campaign and save the date for London, Ky.’s Union election on May 7 and 8.
We hear from:
John Price, BCTGM Director of Organization
Jason Maynard, Forklift Operator, 22-year employee of Hearthside Foods (McComb, Ohio)
Lisa Gregory, BCTGM East-Central Region International Rep.
Liticia Horton, Oven Operator, 29-year employee of Hearthside Foods (London, Ky.)
Roxanne Hallman, Mixing Machine Operator, 12-year employee of Hearthside Foods (London, Ky.)
Veronica Hopkins, BCTGM Midwest Region International Rep.
Ryan Hocke, BCTGM Midwest Region International Rep.
References from this episode:
Workers File for an Elec...2024-04-1839 min
The Valley Labor ReportStrike The South Ep.1: Talking With Members of The BCTGM About Their Strike in MemphisThis is the first hour of the 32 hour live stream "Strike The South" where Jacob interviews members and officers of the Baker Confectionery Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers International Union about their strike that is going on in Memphis.✦ ABOUT ✦The Valley Labor Report is the only union talk radio show in Alabama, elevating struggles for justice and fairness on the job, educating folks about how they can do the same, and bringing relevant news to workers in Alabama and beyond.Our single largest source of revenue *is our listeners* so your support real...2023-12-081h 01Labor Radio-Podcast WeeklyThe strike edition!On today’s special strike edition:
From the BCTGM Voices Project, an update on the five-month-old strike against International Flavors and Fragrances by Local 390G of the Bakery Workers in Memphis.
Then, Portland teachers walked out on Wednesday, the first time they’ve ever struck, so we’re bringing OEA Grow -- the podcast from the Oregon Education Association -- back for the second week in a row, with their special bonus episode talking with educators from the Portland Association of Teachers about the conditions that led to the Portland walkout.
Next up we have...2023-11-0429 minThe BCTGM Voices Project034: An Update on the Local 390G (Memphis, Tenn.) IFF Strike as it enters its 5th MonthAn update on the Local 390G #IFFStrike in Memphis, Tenn. – now approaching its 5th month.
We hear from:
David Woods, BCTGM International Secretary Treasurer
Jason Thomas, BCTGM International Representative/IFF Lead Negotiator
Cedric Wilson, BCTGM Local 390G President, 10-Year Operator at IFF
Kevin Passeretti, BCTGM Local 390G Shop Steward, 35-year QA Analyst at IFF
Resources from this episode:
4 Ways to Support the IFF Strike
IFF Strike Facebook Page
2023-10-2824 minThe BCTGM Voices Project033: IFF On STRIKE! Local 390G Members Share Their Stories and Gratitude for all the Support Shown by the Memphis Labor CommunityWorkers give their take on the issues at play in the #IFFStrike.
We hear from:
Jason Thomas, BCTGM International Representative/IFF Lead Negotiator
Cedric Wilson, BCTGM Local 390G President
Cometris Morgan, BCTGM Local 390G Vice President
Tanya Walker, 21-year member, Shop Steward/Trustee
Zandra Lee, 28-year member
Jessica Merriweather, 6-year member
Bob Thompson, 1-year member (22-year employee of IFF)
Resources from this episode:
3 Ways to Support the IFF Strike
IFF Strike Facebook Page
2023-06-3024 min
Socialist News and ViewsSNV Special Interview: Gabrielle Prosser For City Council Ward 11Special Interview Recorded (4/27/2023) and Uploaded (5/4/2023)
In this Special Interview we speak with BCTGM (Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers International Union) member and SWP (Socialist Workers Party) candidate for Minneapolis City Council Ward 11, Gabrielle Prosser. We discuss the campaign for city council as well as labor conciousness, class conciousness, and building solidarity. We also discuss Gabrielle Prosser's recent trip to Cuba and what it was like to visit a country with a workers' and farmers' government.
You can find articles and information from the Socialist Workers Party in their newspaper The Militant----here--->(themilitant.com/)2023-05-0426 min
Socialist News and ViewsSNV Special Interview: Gabrielle Prosser For City Council Ward 11Special Interview Recorded (4/27/2023) and Uploaded (5/4/2023)
In this Special Interview we speak with BCTGM (Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers International Union) member and SWP (Socialist Workers Party) candidate for Minneapolis City Council Ward 11, Gabrielle Prosser. We discuss the campaign for city council as well as labor conciousness, class conciousness, and building solidarity. We also discuss Gabrielle Prosser's recent trip to Cuba and what it was like to visit a country with a workers' and farmers' government.
You can find articles and information from the Socialist Workers Party in their newspaper The Militant----here--->(https://themilitant.com/)
#socialist #citycouncil #workingclass2023-05-0426 minThe BCTGM Voices Project032: Educating BCTGM Local Union Officers and Stewards | with Research & Education Director Matthew ClarkCovering all sides of the BCTGM’s Education and Training programs:
Part One: An overview with the program director/head of the BCTGM's Research and Education Department, Matthew Clark.
Part Two: Trainees from the most recent New Officers Training at the Maritime Institute in Baltimore, Md. give their feedback and insight.
Also hear from International Secretary-Treasurer David Woods, Organizing Director John Price and Local 6 President Hank McKay - on-site to contribute their mentorship and wisdom.
Interested in attending, setting up or sending someone to a future leadership training? Contact Research & Education Director Matthew Clark at mcl...2023-03-2634 min
Work StoppageEP 138 - Wall to WallHappy New Year to all our listeners, hopefully 2023 will be another year of worker upsurge. We start our first show of the year discussing the debacle at Southwest Airlines where capitalists have once again proven they can't be trusted to manage vital infrastructure. Next we discuss the third union drive at Activision Blizzard, this time at the ironically named Proletariat Studios. California nurses just wrapped up a 10 day strike to stop assaults on their pensions, while as many as 17k nurses in NYC may soon strike over unsafe staffing and low pay as well. We belatedly check in on...2023-01-031h 25The BCTGM Voices Project031: Meet Darrell Copeland, Hostess Local 84 and Asst. Chief Shop Steward Michael WilsonSouthern Region International Rep. Darrell Copeland has been working with Hostess members in Georgia to improve union involvement in their plant, which operates in a Right-to-Work-for-Less state.
In this two-part episode, Copeland takes us through his personal journey as an emerging leader in the BCTGM - and then teams up with Local 84 Asst. Chief Shop Steward Michael Wilson to explain how they are strengthening the workers’ bargaining power at Hostess Brands.
2022-10-1228 minThe BCTGM Voices Project030: Midterm Elections, BCTGM-PAC Rules and Labor 2022 Action Items with Political Director Harry Kaiser and Ohio AFL-CIO President Tim Burga
BCTGM Legislative and Political Director/Asst. to the President Harry Kaiser and Ohio AFL-CIO President Tim Burga weigh in with valuable info on the upcoming midterm elections.
Kaiser reviews rules of the BCTGM-PAC Fund + how we are using our resources to lobby for BCTGM working families, while President Burga discusses the issues on the ballot in Ohio, and the importance of getting this election right in the swing states.
2022-09-2630 min
The CheckoutWhy BCTGM Local 100G Workers Are On Strike At Ingredion2022-09-1449 minThe BCTGM Voices Project029: LIVE Panel Discussion from #BCTGM2022 on the Impact of Social MediaRecorded LIVE on August 1st during the 41st Constitutional Convention: BCTGM Digital Media Director Michelle Ellis moderates a panel discussion from the stage with input from International Staff Members Andrew Gutierrez and Jared Cummings, and BCTGM Local 218 Business Manager Chantel Mendenhall.
The group offers lessons learned from using social media to engage members, leverage awareness in the historic 2021 strikes, and the challenges that arise when using it in organizing.
2022-09-1432 min
Rock Hard Caucus93 - FYI with Chris Eby (9/2/2022)Happy Labor Day weekend! We invited Chris Eby, member of the BCTGM Local 100G, to talk about the ongoing Ingredion strike in Cedar Rapids.
Send some money to the striking workers: https://www.gofundme.com/f/bctgm-100g-strike-assistance
And check out other ways to help here: https://bctgm.org/2022/08/05/4-ways-to-support-the-ingredionstrike
Closing music is "Harmonious Resolution" by Emery Clair Comer Hart Taylor: https://justinkcomer.bandcamp.com/album/undustrial-devolution-ii
https://rockhardcauc.us2022-09-0351 minThe BCTGM Voices Project028: #CornNutsStrike Local 85 Fin. Secy. Jerry Gil and Shop Steward Larry Cuevas Discuss the IssuesBCTGM Local 85 (Sacramento, Calif.) Fin. Secy. Jerry Gil and Corn Nuts Facility Shop Steward Larry Cuevas discuss the health insurance issues surrounding the ULP #CornNutsStrike.
Check out the Public Facebook Page, Corn Nuts Workers On Strike to keep up with their stories, and go to bit.ly/CornNutsStrike to learn how you can support.
2022-08-2618 minThe BCTGM Voices Project027: #IngredionStrike Local 100G Fin. Secy. Ryan Hocke and Committee Member Chris Eby Discuss the IssuesBCTGM Local 100G (Cedar Rapids, Iowa) Fin. Secy. Ryan Hocke and Negotiating Committee Member Chris Eby discuss the over-scheduling, job elimination and wage issues surrounding the #IngredionStrike.
Check out the Public Facebook Group, BCTGM 100G - Ingredion Cedar Rapids - On Strike! to keep up with their stories, and go to bit.ly/IngredionStrike to learn how you can support.
2022-08-1018 minThe BCTGM Voices Project026: Reflecting on the Hershey Campaign | A Discussion with Workers and OrganizersOn March 24th, workers at the Hershey facility in Stuarts Draft, Virginia ultimately voted NOT to unionize with BCTGM by a count of 843 to 225. In this episode, worker committee members Jim Gibson and Janice Taylor join BCTGM staff organizers to reflect on the campaign.
2022-04-2035 min
Mil's podcastBCTGM Talk RecapFellow workers Daric, Lily, and Jason go over the talk we hosted with Donovan from BCTGM, the union that represents the Kelloggs workers who recently went on strike. We discuss what went right, what didn't, and what we learned along the way. Enjoy! So listen in and if you want to be a part of that future and join in the one big union, or just have questions for us about organizing your workplace, reach out at ypsilanti@iww.com and remember, an injury to one is an injury to all. Enjoy! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.s...2022-03-031h 01
One Big PodcastBCTGM Talk Recap Fellow workers Daric, Lily, and Jason go over the talk we hosted with Donovan from BCTGM, the union that represents the Kelloggs workers who recently went on strike. We discuss what went right, what didn't, and what we learned along the way. Enjoy!
So listen in and if you want to be a part of that future and join in the one big union, or just have questions for us about organizing your workplace, reach out at ypsilanti@iww.com and remember, an injury to one is an injury to all. Enjoy!2022-03-031h 01Mil's podcastBCTGM Talk About The Kelloggs StrikeHere we have the talk we hosted as a branch with Donovan from BCTGM about the Kelloggs strike. Thanks for talking with us! So listen in and if you want to be a part of that future and join in the one big union, or just have questions for us about organizing your workplace, reach out at ypsilanti@iww.com and remember, an injury to one is an injury to all. Enjoy! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/iwwypsi/message2022-03-031h 52One Big PodcastBCTGM Talk About The Kelloggs Strike Here we have the talk we hosted as a branch with Donovan from BCTGM about the Kelloggs strike. Thanks for talking with us!
So listen in and if you want to be a part of that future and join in the one big union, or just have questions for us about organizing your workplace, reach out at ypsilanti@iww.com and remember, an injury to one is an injury to all. Enjoy!2022-03-031h 52Work StoppageEp 94 - Working Overtime at the Hershey PrisonIt’s been a busy week in Labor news so we’ve got a jam packed episode of Work Stoppage. First, we’ve got a few recent victories: Workers at Coffee Tree Roasters in Pittsburgh won their union election 17-3 and will now be represented by UFCW Local 1776. Workers at Rich Products’ Jon Donaire ice cream cake plant have ended their four month long strike with three times the wage increase that the company initially offered. Also, following up our story about gig workers in Canada, Ontario’s labor ministry has ruled that Ontario Uber drivers are in fact employees and...2022-03-021h 35The BCTGM Voices Project025: Digital Insights: ”Who Am I Even Talking To?” | A Discussion About AUDIENCESDigital Media Dir. Michelle Ellis runs through a list of ten AUDIENCES to consider when posting on social media: The advantages of engaging each group and content we can post in order to connect with each one.
2022-02-2620 minThe BCTGM Voices Project024: ”Hands off Workers’ Benefits!” Local 22 Takes on UNFI/Cub Foods in the MidwestThroughout the last several months of contract negotiations, Local 22 in Minneapolis, Minn. has been fighting back demands by UNFI/Cub Foods to take the quality UNION retirement and health care benefits from BCTGM members who work in their bakeries.
In this episode, we get the full scoop from the Local President Wally Borgan and UNFI/Cub Foods Bakery Manager/Local 22 Bargaining Committee member Amy Nelson: What exactly is being proposed and the direct effect those proposed changes would have on Amy’s family.
In addition to sharing this recording with your netw...2022-02-2318 minThe BCTGM Voices Project023: Digital Insights: Social Media Progress We Made in 2021, Lessons Learned and a Vision for Year AheadDigital Media Dir. Michelle Ellis applies tips from Digital Insights Episode 8: “We Are What We Consistently Do”, determining whether the Podcast is producing desired outcomes from the proposal submitted to leadership in 2020. We discuss lessons learned through worker action, social media progress we made and renew our intentions for the coming year.
Highlights:
Three Podcast guests who took on more responsibility 2021
Members who are becoming the teachers
Facebook Groups as a tool for solidarity in mobilization
2022-01-3116 min
laborvisionEnd of a Journey for BCTGM workersTrevor Bidelman and Todd Manusos from, Bakery, Confectionary, Tobacco Workers and Grains Millers International Union, talks about the end of a very long strike and the impact on the workers and the company.2022-01-2428 min
The CheckoutCristina Lujan of BCTGM Local 37 & the Rich Foods Strike2022-01-1800 minThe BCTGM Voices Project022: BCTGM Organizing Dir. John Price and Hearthside Foods Worker Jason Maynard on Hanging in There and Organizing in 2021One year after recording our very first episode of the BCTGM Voices Project, Organizing Director John Price returns for a full Organizing update on the year 2021.
Joining the discussion is Jason Maynard, a worker at the non-union Hearthside Foods facility in McComb, Ohio which BCTGM has been trying to Organize since the 1990's. Jason recalls egregious union-busting tactics and harrowing safety concerns on the account of his employer. All-too-common stories which paint the perfect picture of why Labor Law must be reformed to better protect workers in the United States.
2022-01-0637 min
Union Free RadioUnion Free Radio, Ep. 17: What The Kellogg Strikers Actually LostUnions and their allies are calling the Kellogg strike a "win." But, is it?The 11-week Kellogg strike is over. However, while the union movement is calling it a "win," some strikers and some reporters are questioning whether the strike was, in fact, a "win" or a failure.In this last episode of Union Free Radio for 2021, host Peter List walks listeners through the main-reported issues of the strike, as well as how much strikers potentially lost.Articles and resources cited in this episode: Kellogg strike ends as members ratify new contract | | wnem.com Kellogg’s St...2021-12-2727 min
Algorithmically InconvenientFor The Union Makes Us Strong | Lisa Gregory & Cherry of BCGTM and Scott of the Richmond Tenants UnionThe struggles for working people are joined between the workplace and home. At both ends capitalists are squeezing the working class for ever more productivity & higher rents. I met Lisa out on the strike line in Henrico in mid September. She is part of the International BCGTM union that represents workers from Kellogg & Nabisco/Mondalez. Then she was fighting for a fair contract that included healthcare for all workers, stable shifts, & increased worker pay. The workers won their struggle. Today the workers at Kellogg at four locations throughout the country are striking for better pay, their healthcare, and the...2021-12-251h 17
Working People"Keep the Fire Burning" LivestreamAfter nearly 3 months, the strike at cereal giant Kellogg's, which involved 1,400 workers at four different plants, has come to an end. On Tuesday, December 21, the Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers' International Union (BCTGM) announced that its members at Kellogg's had voted to ratify the latest contract offer. We want to send all our love and solidarity to everyone who held strong on the picket line and congratulate them on their new contract. We also want to thank everyone who watched and participated in the 6-hour livestream fundraiser for striking workers that we cohosted last week with Mel...2021-12-246h 01
The CheckoutKellogg’s Strike Recap with Victor Francia, BCTGM Local 50G2021-12-2200 min
Your Rights At WorkWhy Kellogg’s strikers said Hell NoBroadcast on December 9, 2021
Hosted by Chris Garlock and Ed Smith
This week's show: Live from Battle Creek, Michigan, an update from Trevor Bidelman, president of Baker’s Local 3G on why Kellogg’s strikers overwhelmingly rejected the latest contract offer.
Then, teaching history shouldn’t have to mean re-living it on the job. Workers at Colonial Williamsburg are being worked to the bone and exploited, just like in the old days, says their union, UNITE HERE Local 25; Benjy Cannon reports.
The ongoing strike wave reminds many of The Labor Upsurge of the 1930s and ’40s in the...2021-12-0955 min
laborvisionBCTGM strike at KelloggTodd Manusos from Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers International Union Local 3G (BCTGM), tells their story about the strike at Kellogg. Why an injury to one is truly an injury to all. 2021-11-2129 minThe BCTGM Voices Project021: #RichProductsPoorWorkers: Shop Steward Julissa Marquez on the Jon Donaire StrikeLocal 37 (Los Angeles, Calif.) Shop Steward Julissa Marquez discusses the unfair wage, overtime and pension issues surrounding the Jon Donaire strike.
“LIKE” the Rich’s Union Members Appreciation Facebook Page to keep up with their stories!
2021-11-1826 minWork StoppageEp 76 - S Is For StrikeWe start this week’s episode of Work Stoppage catching up with some of the bigger strikes in the country. First, Starbucks has pulled out all the stops in its union busting efforts, even bringing in former CEO and failed presidential candidate Howard Schultz to try and convince workers to vote against their union as ballots go out this week. Then we check in on the Kellogg’s strike, where the company has refused to budge on its two-tiered contract system and workers have dug in for the long haul. Mercy Hospital workers have ended their 5 week long strike after...2021-11-131h 30
Left Reckoning44 - The Strikes Continue & South Carolina Politics and Is Nikki Haley the Better Jeb!? ft. Paul Bowerssupport the show at patreon.com/leftreckoning and get our weekend bonus episodesFirst, strikes continue and Howard Schultz has anti-union chicken soup for the en-route-to-deathcamps soul.support strike fundshttps://msha.ke/bctgm/#strike-fundshttps://umwa.org/umwa2021strikefund/Paul Bowers (@Paul_Bowers) joins us to discuss the politics and economy of South Carolina. Coast vs high country. Tim Scott and Nikki Haley.Check out Paul's work here:https://brutalsouth.substack.com/Also, COP26 is a world-sized failure.2021-11-111h 52Left Reckoning41 - Yesterday's Man, Today: Sleepy Joe and the DemonRats ft. Branko Marceticsupport the show at patreon.com/leftreckoning and get our Sunday bonus episodesBranko Marcetic (@BMarchetich) joins us this week to discuss the inability of Biden to meet the moment. Also, the DemonRats vs India Walton and the US arrests Venezuela's dealmaker.Strike funds!!!!! Kellog Workers Battle Creek https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-kelloggs-workers-on-strike-local-3g Memphis https://www.gofundme.com/f/udp2r-support-striking-kelloggs-workers-local-252g Omaha https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/BCTGMLocal50GStrike Lancaster https://www.gofundme.com/f/bctgm-local-374g-strike-fund John Deere https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-john-deere-strike Let’s not for...2021-10-211h 19The BCTGM Voices Project020: Kellogg‘s on STRRR-IKE! Workers Share Their Stories, Solidarity Across Picket Lines & Deep Gratitude for their Supportive CommunitiesA follow-up to the previous episode with East-Central Region Vice Pres. Roger Miller – in this recording the workers give their inside take on the #KelloggStrike from every location.
We hear from:
Local 252G, Memphis, Tenn.: Local Vice Pres./Kellogg’s Unitizer Operator Kevin Bradshaw
Local 50G, Omaha, Neb.: BCTGM Member/Kellogg’s Coater Operator Victor Francia
Local 3G, Battle Creek, Mich.: Kellogg’s Crew Leader Heather Greene & Head Proccessing Operator Donivan Williams
Local 374G, Lancaster, Pa.: BCTGM Member/Kellogg’s Extruder Operator Andy Johnson
Resources from this episode (PDF):
5 Ways to Support the #KelloggS...2021-10-1939 min
Working PeopleBreakfast of Champions (w/ Dan Osborn) Like Frito-Lay, Nabisco, John Deere, and Heaven Hill Distillery, cereal giant Kellogg’s has seen consumer demand skyrocket during the pandemic, reporting profits of $1.25 billion in 2020. To meet this demand, many workers in Kellogg’s plants around the US report pulling 12-16-hour shifts seven days a week, leaving little time for anything outside of work beyond sleep. But the creation of a two-tier employment system in 2015 has meant that newer employees in the lower “transitional tier” are earning significantly less than their coworkers for doing the same work. Demanding that the company raise the floor for all of its empl...2021-10-1840 minThe BCTGM Voices Project019: Kellogg‘s on STRRR-IKE! East-Central Region VP Roger Miller Discusses the Contract Issues + Action Items for Supporting the WorkersOn October 5th, nearly 1,400 BCTGM members at cereal plants in Battle Creek, Mich., Omaha, Neb., Lancaster, Pa. and Memphis, Tenn. went on STRIKE against the Kellogg Company.
In this episode, the lead Union negotiator for their contract – BCTGM East-Central Region Vice President Roger Miller – talks about the complicated sticking points which led an overwhelming 90% of the workers to vote in favor of a strike.
Resources from this episode (PDF):
5 Ways to Support the #KelloggStrike
Social Media Flyer
#KelloggStrike Fact Sheet
Picket/Letter-Writing Locations & Strike Funds
2021-10-1319 minYour Rights At WorkNo justice, no Froot Loops!Broadcast on October 7, 2021
Hosted by Chris Garlock and Ed Smith
This week's show: Bakery Workers Local 3G president Trevor Bidelman reports on the Kellogg strike from Battle Creek, MI; latest on the UNITE HERE Hilton Housekeeping Campaignwith UNITE HERE Local 25’s Benjy Cannon.
Plus: Click here to support Your Rights At Work’s home station WPFW 89.3FM in Washington, DC.
Produced by Chris Garlock; engineered by Mike Nasella.
@wpfwdc @aflcio #1u #unions #laborradiopod @AFLCIO @BCTGM
#KelloggStrike2021-10-0755 minThe BCTGM Voices Project018: HOW THEY DID IT: Nabisco Union Leaders, Oregon AFL-CIO and BCTGM International Staff Pass on Lessons Learned from the #NabiscoStrikeOur thoughts on everything from strikeline leadership and community organizing to fielding press calls and captivating the working class on social media.
In this episode, we hear from:
Richmond, Va.: Local 358 Fin. Secy./Bus. Agt. Darlene Carpenter
Portland, Ore.: Local 364 Vice Pres./Nabisco Pest Controller Mike Burlingham and Oregon AFL-CIO Pres. Graham Trainor
Kensington, Md.: BCTGM Int’l PR/Communications Dir. Corrina Christensen
2021-09-3043 minYour Rights At WorkSneak attack on worker rights; Oreo’s OK again; Womxn’s Labor Leadership SymposiumBroadcast on WPFW (89.3FM) on September 23, 2021
Hosted by Chris Garlock
This week's show:
Why Bill 34-20 in Montgomery County is a sneak attack on all union rights…Oreos are OK again (sort of); workers won their strike against Nabisco, but an “M” or “MS” on the product code means it was made non-union in Mexico…Plus: highlights from next week’s Womxn’s Labor Leadership Symposium.
Produced by Chris Garlock; engineered by Mike Nasella & Kahlia Chapman.
@wpfwdc @aflcio #1u #unions #laborradiopod @AFLCIO @UFCW1994 @BCTGM #NabiscoStrike @GeorgetownKILWP @RutgersCIWO #WeSymposium2021 @WomenLeadLabor2021-09-2354 min
Working to Live in Southwest WashingtonWho‘s Next? Voices From The Nabisco Strike#LaborRadioPod
The Nabisco Strike is over - https://bctgm.org/2021/09/18/nabisco-strike-ends-bctgm-members-overwhelmingly-accept-new-contract/ Why did Nabisco workers go on strike in the first place, though, and what were they fighting for?
Shannon and Harold sit down with Mike Burlingham and Jesus Martinez, two BCTGM Local 364 (https://www.facebook.com/BCTGM-Local-364-Portland-Oregon-621776167954560) members, to talk about the conditions in the Portland Nabisco plant and the reasons they stayed on strike for over a month.
Then Doug Long and John Murphy, two former presidents of Local 364, tell Harold and Shannon about the support striking workers received from t...2021-09-1948 minYour Rights At WorkBad bosses, TSA worker rights & affordable housingBroadcast on WPFW (89.3FM) on September 16, 2021
Hosted by Chris Garlock & Ed Smith
This week's show:
Nabisco strikers win tentative contract.
Stories of terrible managers—and the workers who fought back; we talk with Mother Jones editor Jacob Rosenberg about Bad Bosses, a brand-new feature in the publication named after the legendary labor organizer.
Want shorter lines at airport security? Improve conditions for TSA workers! We’ll find out how from Johnny Jones, Secretary-Treasurer of the AFGE TSA Council.
We’re still struggling with effects of the global pandemic, now comes the threat of mas...2021-09-1655 minYour Rights At WorkOn the line with striking bakers and barbersBroadcast on September 9, 2021
Hosted by Chris Garlock
On this week's show: NoVA Labor's Ginny Diamond (and friends) with a live report from the Richmond bakery and barber strike picket lines; plus we visit with new Painters and Allied Trades president Jimmy Williams Jr., and Carolyn Bobb, the new co-host of State of the Unions, the AFL-CIO’s podcast.
Produced by Chris Garlock; engineered by Mike Nasella & Kahlia.
@wpfwdc @aflcio #1u #unions #laborradiopod @AFLCIO @va_labor @BCTGM #NabiscoStrike @GoIUPAT2021-09-1054 minThe BCTGM Voices Project017: Nabisco Workers UNITED: Striking BCTGM Members Share Near-Identical Stories, Solidarity across Picket Lines and Deep Gratitude for the Support of the CommunityA follow-up to the previous episode with BCTGM Int'l. Secy. Treas. David Woods – in this recording the workers give their inside take on the #NabiscoStrike from every location.
From each strike line, we hear from:
Local 364, Portland, Ore.: Local Bus. Agt. Cameron Taylor & Vice Pres./Nabisco Pest Controller Mike Burlingham
Local 26, Aurora, Colo.: Local Pres./Bus. Mgr. Clifton Horton & Chief Steward/Exec. Board Member/Nabisco Replenisher (Fork Lift Driver) Rusty Lewis
Local 358, Richmond, Va.: East-Central Region Intl. Rep. Lisa Gregory & Member/Nabisco Oiler Nathan Williams
Local 1, Chicago, Ill.: BCTGM Rank & File Organizer Jared Cummings & Member/Nabisco Ut...2021-09-0831 min
The Voice of Oregon's WorkersOn The Line at NabiscoAfter three weeks on the picket line, BCTGM Local 364 President Jesus Martinez remains committed and set to get a fair contract with his members at the Nabisco factory in Portland. With solidarity in actions held at Nabisco factories and distribution centers nationwide, as well as international actions, Local 364 is making Oregon Labor history by holding the line. Listen to learn how you can help support Local 364 and how this strike is inspiring the next generation of workers to stand together. Click here to donate to the Local 364 Strike Fund GUESTS2021-09-0126 minWork StoppageEp 65 - No Contracts No Snacks!
It’s just John and Dan as Lina is off this week, and we start with a dire warning to never trust a man in a cravat after Nathan J Robinson responded to the staff of Current Affairs’ desire to form a co-op by firing everyone. Then, after a brief check-in with the Teamsters in Indiana who have reached an agreement with Pepsi to end their strike, we hit some of the big news this week as a judge in California has ruled Prop 22 unconstitutional. However, this hasn’t stopped gig companies trying to expand their misclassification schemes across the countr...2021-08-281h 29
Snacktime ConspiracyNo Contracts No Snacks: Spit Out that Oreo!While the pandemic caused snack sales to skyrocket, Nabisco raked in billions. Nabisco employees were then considered essential workers and hailed as heroes. Now, those same employees are at risk of losing their jobs. Since early August, Nabisco workers in Georgia, Oregon, Illinois, Virginia, and Colorado have been on strike as the snack giant modifies employee contracts to eliminate pension plans, increase shift times, and eliminate overtime pay.
Episode IV delves into Nabisco's first strike in 52 years, the history of America’s not-so-favorite cookie, and its association with tobacco and stock market bros.
We stand with...2021-08-2731 min
Your Rights At WorkNo contracts, no snacks!Broadcast on August 26, 2021
Hosted by Chris Garlock and Ed Smith
This week's show: A frontline report from the Nabisco strike*, a preview of Saturday’s March On for Voting Rights, and Jamie McCallum remembers activist and labor historian Stanley Aronowitz, “who knew that freedom begins where work ends.”
Plus today’s labor music, "One Day Longer" by Tom Breiding, about the United Mine Workers strike at Warrior Met.
*click here for details on the Nabisco/Mondelēz “Made in Mexico” boycott.
Produced by Chris Garlock; engineered by Mike Nasella & Kahlia.
@wpfwdc @aflcio #1u #un...2021-08-2754 min
Independent ThoughtBoycotting OreosIn my main segment, I address the worker strike at Nabisco. I go into detail on why the workers are striking, other groups of workers around the country who have also gone on strike recently, and what we can do to help these workers. In my guest segment, I am joined by Sarah Bolstad, the host of the podcast - I Speak Dead People. We discuss the origins of her podcast, why it's important to discuss losing a loved one & why we as a society need to destigmatize conversations around grief and death.
Special thanks to BETTY'S D...2021-08-231h 05The BCTGM Voices Project016: Nabisco (Mondelēz) ON STRIKE! Int'l. Secy. Treas. David Woods Discusses the History, Issues and Action Items for Supporting the WorkersBCTGM Int'l. Secy. Treas. David Woods talks about the history and context behind the #NabiscoStrike - which has had members at multiple plant locations walking out in phases. At the time of this recording, there are more than 1,000 BCTGM Members on strike in four different cities.
Follow their Facebook Page: Nabisco Workers Unite
Check the Label! Download an Action Flyer
2021-08-2224 minThe BCTGM Voices Project015: Digital Insights: How Workers in the #FritoLayStrike Recruited 2,000 Facebook Followers in 10 DaysA case study for the Topka Frito-Lay Union Members Appreciation Facebook Page - which grew by 2,000 followers in 10 days during the #FritoLayStrike. Local 218 Trustee/FritoLay Crewing Coordinator Chantel Mendenhall (the page's admin) and BCTGM Midwest International Rep. Jason Davis give us their insight.
2021-07-2320 minThe BCTGM Voices Project014: FritoLay Topeka, Kan. ON STRIKE! Local 218 Chief Steward Paul Klemme and Midwest Int'l Rep. Jason Davis Discuss the Issues
BCTGM Midwest International Representative Jason Davis and Local 218 Chief Steward Paul Klemme talk about the labor issues which led them to strike against FritoLay in Topeka, Kansas on July 5th. Hear their stories and learn how you can support the workers on and off the picket line!
2021-07-1621 min
Working PeopleCheri RenfroHundreds of workers at the Frito Lay manufacturing and distribution plant in Topeka, Kansas, have been on strike since July 5th. Workers at Frito Lay have endured years of disrespect and many at the plant have seen their wages stagnate and fall behind other employers in the area. On top of that, workers have been caught in a horrible cycle that was greatly exacerbated by COVID 19: While more people were staying home during the pandemic and eating a lot more chips, the incredibly high turnover at Frito-Lay has meant that folks who have stayed on have been forced to...2021-07-151h 27
Black MentoUrs: An Affirmation in Self ImageJohn Nave and Andy Sanchez with Kansas AFL-CIO and Esther Fanning with BCTGM Union Local 218 (union member)BCTGM Union Local 218 Frito-Lay Strike and Kansas AFL-CIO2021-07-1455 minThe BCTGM Voices Project013: Local 351 Pres. Andrew Gutierrez on Staying Connected to his Membership and Greater New Mexico Labor CommunityOne of the BCTGM's most enthusiastic young leaders - Local 351 (Albuquerque, NM) President Andrew Gutierrez - offers his perspective on community outreach, political action and staying connected to his membership both in-person and on social media.
2021-06-2921 minThe BCTGM Voices Project012: Digital Insights: Creative Apps for Smart PhonesDigital Media Dir. Michelle Ellis gives tips for clearer, more creative social media posts and references a handful of free smart phone apps that can help you get the job done. Apps Referenced:
Photo Editing
Tezza
Adobe Lightroom
Graphics/Text Overlays
Canva
Word Swag
Designing Stories/Slides
Unfold
Social Media Links/Websites
MilkShake
LinkTree
Biosite
2021-06-1518 minThe BCTGM Voices Project011: International President Anthony Shelton on Service, Representation and LeadershipInternational President Anthony Shelton reflects on his BCTGM upbringing and journey the Union's highest office. In gratitude of the leaders who came before, he discusses his service-based vision for the future of our organization.
2021-06-0124 minThe BCTGM Voices Project010: Digital Insights: Organizing Smarter, Not HarderDigital Media Dir. Michelle Ellis helps you identify "upper limit problems" that could hinder long-term membership growth/retention; and offers tips for optimizing the work of individual Organizers in order to make the most effective use of our Organizations' time.
2021-05-1817 minThe BCTGM Voices Project009: Strategic Organizing with Local 6 "Some things you just can't afford NOT to invest in."Local 6 Pres. Hank McKay, Bus. Agent/Organizer Corey Walter and a Local 6 Retired Activist tell us how they insulated their Local Union against a 5-year, 531-member loss - coming out with a net-gain of 370 members in that time.
2021-05-0431 minThe BCTGM Voices Project008: Digital Insights: "We Are What We Consistently Do"A follow-up to Episode 006: How Well Does Your Local Union Function to Support ORGANIZING? Digital Media Dir. Michelle Ellis helps you build a routine for improving your Local Union's visibility in the community; and explains how this formula can apply to any of the points on your "Organizer's Success Wheel."
References for this recording:
Worksheet: bctgm.org/PDFs/BCTGMOrganizersWheel.pdf
Podcast #6: podbean.com/ei/pb-g4arx-fdb5b6
Free Calendar pages: www.wiki-calendar.com
2021-04-2016 minThe BCTGM Voices Project007: "When Labor Meets Community we can WIN" | A Political Discussion with Staff & Organizers from the BCTGM & AFL-CIOHow the American Rescue plan SAVED our Pensions, how the PRO Act will protect our right to Organize and how the Georgia Special Elections changed the game for Labor and the BCTGM.
Guests for this Episode:
Harry Kaiser, Political Dir./Asst. to President Anthony Shelton, BCTGM
John Price, Organizing Dir., BCTGM
David Driscoll-Knight, East Region Field Dir., AFL-CIO
Richard Womack, Asst. to AFL-CIO Pres. Richard Trumka
Jared Cummings, Rank & File Organizer, BCTGM Local 53 Exec. Board
Margaret McLaughlin, International Rep./Organizer, BCTGM
2021-03-3036 minThe BCTGM Voices Project006: Digital Insights: How well does your Local Union function to support ORGANIZING?Digital Media Director Michelle Ellis guides you through a visualization to measure your organization's daily Organizing momentum. CLICK HERE to download the worksheet used in this recording.
Listen to the follow-up training to this recording: 008: Digital Insights: "We Are What We Consistently Do"
2021-03-1611 minThe BCTGM Voices Project005: Jasmine White & Local 149 Pres./Bus. Agent Letitia Malone - Grit and VICTORY at Blues City BreweryBlues City Brewery employee Jasmine White and Local 149 (Memphis, Tenn.) Pres./Bus. Agent Letitia Malone discuss their journey to this December 2020 Organizing WIN.
2021-03-0231 minThe BCTGM Voices Project004: Digital Insights: Growing Well-Engaged Public Facebook PagesDigital Media Director Michelle Ellis gives four tips for growing/maintaining engagement on your organization's Facebook page(s).
2021-02-1614 minThe BCTGM Voices Project003: Lisa Gregory, BCTGM East-Central Region Representative - How She Grew into a Union LeaderBCTGM International Representative Lisa Gregory talks about growing up Union, holding office at Local 58G and all she has learned about organizing and negotiating along the way.
2021-02-0116 minThe BCTGM Voices Project002: Digital Insights: Facebook Advertising for Organizing LeadsIn the first installment of Digital Insights, a training segment within the BCTGM Voices Project, Michelle Ellis talks about how lead generation works using Facebook Ads.
2021-01-1912 minThe BCTGM Voices Project001: John Price, BCTGM Director of Organization, on Organizing in 2020John Price discusses hopes for the National Labor Relations Board under a new U.S. President, obstacles overcome with new tools and personnel in 2020 and several recent Organizing campaigns.
2020-12-3127 minThe BCTGM Voices Project000: Launch Episode with Michelle Ellis, BCTGM Director of Digital MediaThe BCTGM Podcast is in the universe! Michelle Ellis introduces the format and purpose of this project.
2020-12-3005 min