WNYLaborToday News - Organizing News From Across The U.S.A.

'Elsbeth' Production Assistants File To Join LIUNA

Fri, 23 Oct 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Production Assistants (PAs) on Elsbeth are embarking on a Union push, filing for a Union Election with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). The petition covers 28 Workers on the CBS-TV series. The goal is to join LiUNA Local 724, which has partnered with grassroots organization Production Assistants United as part of a broader push to Unionize Film and Television Production Assistants. This latest organizing milestone is part of the larger Production Assistants United Campaign, which is making major headways in a largely under-represented part of the Film and TV Industry. “The Production Assistants on ‘Elsbeth’ are so excited about taking this important step into Unionizing,” the PAs said in a statement. “For too long in this industry Non-Union labor has been seen as simply an entry level position when in reality these Workers are people with years of experience who work some of the longest hours on set while being in precarious positions with their finances, health care, and their children’s well-being.” Ethan Ravens, who serves as Director of Organizing for Production Assistants United and Local 724, said: “Production in New York is booming right now - so is this movement. PAs across the City are deciding that the people who keep these sets running deserve a Union too.”

For More On This Organizing Labor News Story, Go To: 'Elsbeth' Production Assistants File For Union Election

Cooperative Development Institute Union In Northampton, Massachusetts 'Wins Voluntary Recognition'

Wed, 21 Oct 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS) - Workers employed at the Cooperative Development Institute (CDI) are celebrating the formation of their Union - CDI Workers United (CDIWU), after receiving voluntary recognition from their employer.

The Workers, who are represented by the Providence Newspaper Guild/The NewsGuild-CWA Local 31041, organized around shared priorities including meaningful participation in workplace decisions, transparency, accountability, equitable working conditions, and a desire to strengthen communication across programs and throughout the organization.

“We organized because we believe deeply in CDI and in the cooperative values that guide our work,” CDIWU Member Addy Schuetz said. “Every day, we help communities build structures that give people a meaningful voice in the decisions that affect them. We believe Workers deserve that same opportunity. Forming CDI Workers United gives us a way to bring those values more fully into our own workplace and to work together toward a stronger, more sustainable CDI.”

Voluntary recognition means CDIWU - which represents 30 Workers, and CDI leadership can move directly toward bargaining on a first contract without the need for a formal Union Election.

To Read This Organizing Labor News Story In Its Entirety, Go To: Cooperative Development Institute union wins voluntary recognition | The NewsGuild - TNG-CWA

Nearly 60 Workers At The Baltimore Animal Shelter 'Go Union' With AFSCME

Mon, 19 Oct 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(BALTIMORE, MARYLAND) – Nearly 60 Workers employed at the Baltimore Animal Rescue and Care Shelter (BARCS) have voted overwhelmingly to form their Union with American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Maryland Council 3.

The new Bargaining Unit consists of Adoptions Counselors, Animal Care Attendants, Cat Foster Coordinators, Community Cats Program Coordinators, Pet Support Reps, Surgery Assistants, Training and Enrichment Coordinators, Vet Techs and others.

Members of BARCS Workers United organized to help address concerns regarding physical protection at work, transparency and respect - among other reasons.

“As BARCS staff, we give animals a second chance, and we gave ourselves a stronger voice to better stand up for the animals and for our fellow Co-Workers. This is only the first step before negotiations for the betterment of BARCS and Baltimore’s Animal Welfare System as a whole,” said Taylor Hilton, a BARCS Workers United Member and a Veterinary Technician.

The Union Election was conducted by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) and workers voted 39-to-9 in favor of Unionizing.

“We asked nicely and management ignored us. We made it clear that things need to change and they made it clear that the only way they’d respect us was by organizing our Union,” said Rachel Brown, a Pet Support Representative.

The Members of BARCS Workers United are committed to better pay for their lowest-paid workers, adequate protections and safety protocols for all staff, respect in the workplace from management and departmental transparency.

The newly-formed Bargaining Unit will create a formal pathway for Workers to better advocate for themselves and the communities they serve in support of the BARCS mission.

“(The) victory for BARCS Workers truly embodies the mission of AFSCME Maryland: To improve conditions for Marylanders so that they can do the important work that keeps our communities running. BARCS Employees work tirelessly to provide safety and security to animals in need and that goes hand in hand with providing safety and security to them,” AFSCME Maryland Executive Director Sabeela Ally said.

To Directly Access This Organizing Labor News Story, Go To: Workers at Baltimore animal shelter win their union - AFSCME

Obama Foundation And Presidential Center Staff Launch Union Organizing Effort

Thu, 15 Oct 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(CHICAGO, ILLINOIS) – Staff at the Barack Obama Foundation and Presidential Center in Chicago have announced they are organizing to join American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Council 31. “We are the Workers who spend our days fulfilling the vision and values of the Obama Foundation,” 68 Members of the Staff wrote in a letter announcing the organizing effort. “We strongly believe in the mission to ‘inspire, empower and connect people to change their world,’ and now we’d like to change ours.” The Union did not have numbers on how many Employees have left since the Center opened in June, but it represents Workers across a wide range of roles - from Museum Greeters and Ticket-Takers to Behind-the-Scenes Staff who put together exhibits or work in development, Communications and Marketing. Obama Workers United will represent more than 250 Workers across the Presidential Center Campus in Chicago, at the Obama Foundation’s Offices in Washington, D.C., and remote Workers around the U.S. Addressed to Colleagues, the letter invites Employees to sign their Union Cards to push for senior leadership to recognize the group’s right to organize “and not waste resources on Anti-Union messaging, Anti-Union lawyers or Anti-Union meetings.” “These Employees are the heart of the Obama Foundation. Every day they do the work that makes the new Presidential Center such a remarkable addition to our City,” AFSCME Council 31 Executive Director Roberta Lynch said. “Together in our Union, they can ensure that the Foundation and Presidential Center are every bit as good a place to work as the Center is to visit.”

For More On This Organizing Labor News Story, Go To: Obama Foundation and Presidential Center workers to unionize: ‘We don't even have a seat at the table’ - WBEZ Chicago

Photo Courtesy Of The Obama Foundation’s Facebook Page.

Dungeons & Dragons & Studio X Teams 'Form The Latest Wizards Of The Coast Unions' With The CWA

Tue, 13 Oct 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(RENTON, WASHINGTON) - Wizards of the Coast’s Dungeons & Dragons team (Dungeons & Dragons, D&D Beyond) and Studio X (Magic: The Gathering, Duel Masters) have announced their intent to form a Union with the Communications Workers of America (CWA) as a part of United Wizards of the Coast-CWA (UWOTC-CWA).

This announcement comes in the wake of The Magic: The Gathering Arena (MTG Arena) Team’s successful Unionization with the CWA.

MTG Arena announced their Union in April of this year and won their election this Summer.

Both teams echoed many of the same reasons for forming a Union as their MTG Arena counterparts.

In their open letter to leadership, Members of Studio X remarked it “has become clear that it is in the Workers’ best interests to pursue collective bargaining power in order to bring equity to the workplace.”

They also cited mounting instability within Wizards and the Gaming Industry, a desire for fair compensation that reflects their work, clearly-defined career progression - and more.

Dungeons & Dragons and Studio X’s Union plans to follow in the footsteps of Wizards of the Coast’s MTG Arena Team.

MTG Arena is the premier digital equivalent of Magic: The Gathering.

Studio X and MTG Arena have a long-running internal relationship and Members of MTG Arena’s Union have voiced their support for their sibling Units’ efforts.

These teams have given management until today (Tuesday, October 13th) to voluntarily recognize their Union.

To ensure a timely certification process, Workers have also filed an election petition with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB).

“Everyone I work with makes our company, our game and our community stronger by bringing their talent, expertise and effort to making Magic,” UWOTC-CWA Member and Magic Rules Manager Eric Levine said. “Those incredible people deserve fair compensation, remote protections, clear career progression and more. Supporting the people who make the game will ensure that Magic keeps getting better for years to come.”

Joey Haeck, a Member of UWOTC-CWA and Senior Game Designer on Dungeons & Dragons, shared they are organizing “because scared Workers are neither happy nor productive.”

“By organizing to negotiate a fair contract on issues of layoff protections, forced relocation protections, equitable pay and career advancement, mandatory AI (Artificial Intelligence) use protections, parental support and more. We make our game better by investing in our human creators and resisting the churn and brain drain caused by roller-coaster layoffs,” he said.

Haeck’s concerns around layoffs and the encroachment of AI represent pressing concerns in the Gaming Industry and recent Unionization efforts have worked to address these concerns through collective action.

Other Gaming Studios like Blizzard, Paizo and more have joined with CWA to secure further protections for their Workers.

More than 4,000 Workers have organized across the Gaming Industry to expand Game Worker solidarity as part of CWA’s Campaign to Organize Digital Employees (CODE-CWA), spanning from AAA studios in Microsoft’s Gaming Division to Independent Publishers.

To Read This Organizing Labor News Story In Its Entirety, Go To: Dungeons & Dragons and Studio X Teams Form Latest Wizards of the Coast Unions with CWA | Communications Workers of America

Detroit Historical Society Workers 'Go Union' With AFSCME

Sun, 11 Oct 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(DETROIT, MICHIGAN) - Workers employed at the Detroit Historical Society won their Union with AFSCME (American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees) Michigan, joining other Detroit Cultural Workers who are fighting for a stronger voice to create better institutions for both Employees and the community.

The Workers recently voted overwhelmingly in favor of their Union, after months of organizing and building their collective voice about issues in the workplace.

“We often talk about moments in history at the Detroit Historical Society,” said Macsen Kirkpatrick Johnson, a Visitor Experience Associate Supervisor. “To know that we are part of the foundational history of the Labor Movement in our Museum, in a City that helped form the Labor Movement, is nothing short of inspiring.”

For Rebecca Phoenix, a Visitor Experience Associate, Unionizing was about moving forward: “My family has worked in the Museum for generations. By coming together to form our Union with AFSCME, my Co-Workers and I will have a voice in the work that we do every day. We are passionate about the atmosphere we create and we know our Union will ensure that the Detroit Historical Society remains an important Cultural Institution in the City of Detroit for generations to come.”

While fair wages and a strong first contract are the basis of their organizing, Museum Workers’ Unionization efforts were also about protecting the Historical Society itself.

This victory, paired with recent success at the Detroit Institute of Arts, sends a message to Cultural Workers across Michigan about the importance of coming together to build a voice in the workplace, Union Officials said.

More than 50,000 Workers employed in Libraries, Museums, Zoos and Other Cultural Institutions across the country have gained a seat at the table and a voice on the job through the AFSCME Cultural Workers United Campaign, the largest organizing effort of its kind in the Nation. 

To Directly Access This Organizing Labor News Story, Go To: Detroit Historical Society workers win their union with AFSCME - AFSCME

ATI Workers In Huntsville, Alabama 'Go Union,' Join The United Steelworkers

Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(HUNTSVILLE, ALABAMA) - The United Steelworkers (USW) has announced the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) has certified the results of a January 2026 Union Election where Workers at ATI Specialty Alloys & Components in Huntsville voted to join the USW - marking a significant step toward collective bargaining for better wages, stronger benefits and safer working conditions.

The newly-organized Unit includes 150 full-time and regular part-time Production, Maintenance, Quality, Shipping and Warehouse Employees who manufacture and test metal alloys used in Aerospace, Defense, Medical and other critical applications.

USW District 9 Director Daniel Flippo said the Workers have been waiting long enough for a Union to provide a strong voice to speak up for respect and fairness in the workplace: “This election was about more than pay and benefits. It’s about having a ‘voice on the job,’ improving occupational health and safety and making sure the people who do the work have a say in the conditions under which that work is done.”

Flippo said that Workers at ATI know that standing together is the key to building real power, especially after the company sought to overturn their election for months.

“These are highly-skilled, loyal Employees who take pride in their jobs,” Flippo said. “When Workers are united in solidarity, they create safer workplaces, raise their standards of living and help build a stronger future for their families and communities. The Workers here have demonstrated to all Workers that standing together for a better way of life works for everyone!”

The USW also represents 2,000 ATI Employees at a number of the company’s facilities in the States of Pennsylvania, Oregon, New York and elsewhere.

The USW represents 850,000 Workers employed in Metals, Mining, Pulp and Paper, Rubber, Chemicals, Glass, Auto Supply and the Energy-producing industries, along with a growing number of Members in Health Care, the Public Sector, Higher Education, Tech and Service occupations.

To Directly Access This Organizing Labor News Report, Go To: Workers Choose USW: Union Election Certified at ATI Huntsville - United Steelworkers

Illinois Journalists 'Go Union,' Form The Daily Herald News Guild

Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, ILLINOIS) –Journalists have elected to form the Daily Herald News Guild by an overwhelming vote of 15-to-0.

Authorized observers from the Union and management witnessed the counting of ballots at the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) Offices in Downtown Chicago.

The Secret Ballot Election was conducted via U.S. mail after Newspaper Owner Alden Global Capital/Tribune Publishing refused to voluntarily recognize the Union.

All 20 Union-eligible Journalists had signed cards in support of organizing in late August.

The election comes after decades of layoffs and salary reductions at the Suburban Newspaper, which was acquired by Alden from Paddock Publications in June.

Over the last 10 years alone, Employees saw their wages reduced by at least 15% and the work week reduced to 36.5 hours.

During that same period, Employees experienced eight rounds of buyouts and/or combination buyouts and layoffs.

It culminated with the dismissal of 12 Daily Herald Employees in August (2026) under the new corporate ownership.

The Union Election reflects Guild Members’ efforts to secure competitive wages and pay equity, transparency, a strong voice in the future of their newsroom and the ability to continue reporting on the suburban communities the paper has served for more than 150 years.

Standing together to form a Union, the paper’s Writers, Editors and Photographers - many of whom have worked at The Daily Herald for more than 25 years - aim to build on that tradition by protecting the newsroom from the forces threatening Employees and the industry in general.

The Daily Herald News Guild joins with The Chicago News Guild-Communications Workers of America (TNG-CWA) Local 34071, which represents more than 600 Media, Non-Profit and Publishing Workers throughout the Chicago area and nationally.

To Directly Access This Labor News Story, Go To: Daily Herald journalists win election to form Daily Herald News Guild | The NewsGuild - TNG-CWA

Workers Employed At The National Low Income Housing Coalition Form A Staff Union

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) – The Staff of the National Low Income Housing Coalition (NLIHC) has requested voluntary recognition of their Union, NLIHC Workers United.

A super-majority (96%) of Workers - 28 Employees, signed Union Authorization Cards, demonstrating their desire to be represented by the Washington-Baltimore News Guild (WBNG).

For more than 50 years, NLIHC has been a leading voice for equity, integrity and fairness - in their work, with their Members and partners, and on the national stage.

The NLIHC Staff is dedicated to achieving racially and socially equitable public policy that ensures people with the lowest incomes have quality homes that are accessible and affordable in communities of their choice.

As Workers of a mission-driven, values-based organization, the Staff of NLIHC know “there’s nothing about us without us.”

A years-long effort in the making, they come together with the hope of advancing three major priorities - transparency, staff development and support, and collaboration - with the creation of their Union.

A Union will give the Workers a concrete mechanism to ensure shared values extend to the workforce, Washington-Baltimore News Guild Representatives said.

NLIHC Staffer Sidney Betancourt said: “I want a Union so my Colleagues can be protected against Unfair Labor Practices. Organizing the Unit has been such a humbling experience and it makes me so happy to see so many of my Colleagues in solidarity with one another. As a ‘Union baby’ to now being a Union Member, I am so excited to see the positive change this union will create for current and future NLIHC Employees.”

To Read This Organizing Labor News Story In Its Entirety, Go To: Workers of the National Low Income Housing Coalition form staff union | The NewsGuild - TNG-CWA

Workers At The Aquarium Of The Pacific Announce Efforts To 'Go Union' With AFSCME

Thu, 01 Oct 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(LONG BEACH, CALIFORNIA) – Following a wave of successful Organizing Drives among Cultural Institutions throughout Southern California, Workers employed at the Aquarium of the Pacific (AOP), which is the largest Aquarium in Southern California, have announced they are forming a Union through American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees (AFSCME) District Council 36 as the Aquarium of the Pacific Workers United.

The new Union would represent 130 Workers and include Environmentalists, Educators, Guest Services Associates and more.

Workers filed for Union Recognition after receiving strong majority of support from Employees who are ready to have a voice on the job.

Aquarium of the Pacific Workers play a vital role in keeping the Aquarium a warm, welcoming and educational environment for the 1.6 million people who visit each year.

Key factors driving the Unionization efforts are the growing use of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the Aquarium’s operations, wages that do not keep up with the cost of living, and a lack of professional development opportunities.

“We work hard every day, often doing the work of multiple people while facing constant changes and high expectations,” said Krystal Gonzales, who works in Environmental Services at the AOP. “We’re not asking for special treatment. We’re asking for fair workloads, support, respect and a voice in the workplace. We’re coming together because our voices matter.”

Lurdez Puga, who is an Education Specialist, said: “Better work comes from Workers who are taken care of and heard. I love the work I do and want to be able to continue to do it in a work environment that supports the health and safety of me and my colleagues.”

Rissa Lising, who works in Guest Services, supports a Union at Aquarium of the Pacific because she believes in bettering the work environment: “I believe that the key to a healthy working environment is a workplace where staff feel encouraged to speak up, share their thoughts and truly feel listened to and heard in return. Unionizing would give us a seat at the table and a say in our future that we previously didn’t have.”

Many Non-Profit and Cultural Institutions in Los Angeles County - such as the Museum of Contemporary Art, Academy Museum of Motion Pictures and Academy Foundation of Motion Pictures, have already granted voluntary recognition to their Staff Unions, all of whom also organized with AFSCME District Council 36 and are part of AFSCME Cultural Workers United, the largest Organizing Movement for Cultural Workers in the country.

To Directly Access This Organizing Labor News Story, Go To: Workers at the Aquarium of the Pacific Announce Unionization Efforts | AFSCME District Council 36

1,400 Solar Manufacturing Workers In Michigan 'Go Union,' Join the United Steelworkers

Tue, 29 Sep 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(HEMLOCK, MICHIGAN) - Workers employed at a Corning Solar Manufacturing Plant in the State of Michigan have voted to join the United Steelworkers (USW).

The vote was close - 560-to-512, following an intense Anti-Union Campaign by the company.

Nakisha West, a Wirecutter, voted yes for “fairness and accountability.” She and her Co-Workers use scorching heat and precision-cutting tools to turn polysilicon crystals, or boules, into slim squares - known as wafers, for solar panels. “It’s a very dirty job, but somebody’s gotta do it,” she said.

It’s been more than a decade since that “somebody” was a Worker in the U.S.

Nearly all the world’s wafers are produced in China.

But in January 2025, Corning received $325 million from the Federal Government to build a Solar Plant across the street from its Semi-Conductor Plant in Hemlock, Michigan, which employs more than 1,000 more Workers.

The Hemlock Semi-Conductor Plant is one of only two plants in the U.S. that produce the solar-grade polysilicon.

Because it produces this material domestically, Corning is insulated from the effects of the 15% tariffs the Trump Administration imposed in August on imported products made with polysilicon.

The 1,380 Corning Workers represent the largest victorious Union Drive in a manufacturing plant since the United Auto Workers Unionized a Volkswagen Assembly Plant in Tennessee in 2024.

The Steelworkers also notched a big Organizing victory in 2023 with 1,400 school bus Manufacturing Workers at a Blue Bird factory in Georgia.

Corning employs 12,000 Production Workers in the U.S., in the fields of Glass and Ceramics, Life Sciences (Laboratory Tools), Fiber Optics and Solar.

Its products include Gorilla Glass, ceramics for catalytic converters, optical communications cables, automotive glass and iPhone screens.

The Steelworkers have long represented Workers in several other Corning plants.

After this win, the Union now represents 4,400 Corning Workers at facilities located in the States of New York, New Jersey, North Carolina, Kentucky, Virginia, and now Michigan.

But the company has increasingly been moving its operations to Non-Union facilities.

Its fiber optic business is rapidly expanding, fueled by demand from Data Centers.

To Continue Reading This Organizing Labor News Story, Go To: Fourteen Hundred Solar Manufacturing Workers Join the Steelworkers | Labor Notes

Central Maine Medical Center Nurses 'Go Union, Vote Overwhelmingly To Join' The Maine State Nurses Association/National Nurses United

Sun, 27 Sep 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(LEWISTON, MAINE) - Registered Nurses (RNs) employed at the Central Maine Medical Center (CMMC) in Lewiston have voted overwhelmingly to join the Maine State Nurses Association/National Nurses Organizing Committee (MSNA/NNOC), an Affiliate of National Nurses United (NNU), the largest and fastest-growing RN Union in the Nation.

Nurses voted 91% yes (204-to-21, not including Nurses who were suspended or terminated for patient advocacy) to form a Union.

“We are beyond thrilled to win our Union election. Prime Healthcare thought they could silence us,” said RN Aaron McDaniel, who works in the Intensive Care Unit. “But now we are Members of National Nurses Organizing Committee and we will use our voices to speak up loudly for our patients. We’re so proud to join NNOC because we know we will win a contract that will make a drastic difference for our patients and for us as Nurses to build a healthier community.”

CMMC Nurses recently held an informational picket to protest their employer’s retaliation against Nurses who were speaking up and fighting for their patients.

Despite these retaliatory tactics from Prime Healthcare, the Hospital’s owner, Nurses demonstrated their unity and solidarity that resulted in this Union win.

Nurses at the 250-bed facility say they voted to join the Union because it is critical Nurses have a say in making decisions that affect patient care, working conditions, staffing, and recruitment and retention of experienced Nurses.

With their election victory, the Nurses will continue to demand the reinstatement of 20 illegally disciplined Co-Workers (15 fired and five suspended) and, moving forward, good faith bargaining on a first Union contract.

The Nurses will now begin to select their Nurse Bargaining Team Members in order to begin negotiations on their first Collective Bargaining Agreement with Prime Healthcare.

To Continue Reading This Organizing Labor News Story, Go To: Central Maine Medical Center nurses vote overwhelmingly to join MSNA/National Nurses Organizing Committee | National Nurses United

Maine State Nurses Association-Provided Photo.

Poultry Processing Workers In North Carolina 'Go Union' With The UFCW

Thu, 24 Sep 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Sanitization Staff employed at Butterball in Raeford, North Carolina have joined United Food & Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 1208. The 58 new Union Members are responsible for cleaning and preparing the Poultry Plant for its daily production of ready-to-eat and ready-to-cook turkey products. The key issues that led Workers to want Union representation included concerns about safety, frustration with favoritism and a desire for fair pay. Workers told UFCW Organizers they were tired of seniority not factoring into decisions about job opportunities. Strong cohesion and leadership among the Workers were key factors in the win, as was a well-thought-out plan to prepare employees to refute Anti-Union rhetoric from the employer. Organizers were also able to show how collective action could help solve many of the workplace’s problems. These Workers join the 500 UFCW Local 1208 Members who already work in the Plant’s Production Units. Organizers hope to begin negotiating a contract in the coming weeks.

To Read This Labor News Organizing Story In Its Entirety, Go To: Poultry Processing Workers in North Carolina Vote to Unionize - The United Food & Commercial Workers International Union | The United Food & Commercial Workers International Union

National Braille Press Workers 'Go Union,' Join The CWA

Tue, 22 Sep 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Workers employed at the National Braille Press (NBP) have received confirmation from management that they will voluntarily recognize the Workers’ Union with the Industrial Division of the Communications Workers of America (CWA) - (International Union of Electronic, Electrical, Salaried, Machine and Furniture Workers (IUE)-CWA) Local 8120. Members are calling for a stronger voice on the job and improvements they believe will help sustain both the workforce and NBP’s mission. NBP, in operation for more than a century, is a private, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that produces braille books, educational materials and other resources to help expand access to information for blind and visually-impaired people. Workers formed a wall-to-wall Union, which includes production Workers, Press Operators, Transcribers, Proofreaders, Sales and Development Staff, Administrative Workers and others. On August 31st, the Workers marched together to NBP leadership to announce their Organizing Campaign and call on the organization to voluntarily recognize their Union.

OnlyFans: 'Is It Time For A Content Creators Union?'

Sun, 20 Sep 2026 00:00:00 -0400

OnlyFans, if you’re not already familiar with it, is a subscription platform where creators charge fans for videos, photos, direct messages, pay-per-view content and tips.

Launched in 2016, it features Musicians, Chefs, Actors, Fitness Trainers and more.

Superstars like Blac Chyna, Bella Thorne, Cardi B and Iggy Azalea connect with their fans on the platform and rake in millions of dollars monthly from the interactions.

But as anyone from the Gen Z or Millennial cohorts knows, those aren’t the Content Creators who really define OnlyFans’ reputation.

The large majority of its five million Creators (around 80%) produce and post home-made sexually-explicit material - often drawn in by social media buzz and testimonials about the easy money to be made.

Most aren’t celebrities of any kind when they sign up, nor are they porn stars with a previous career in the Sexual Entertainment Industry.

They’re ordinary people who might not otherwise have considered posting their spicy pics and vids - but hope to pick up some extra money at a time when steady, well-paying jobs are hard to come by.

The OnlyFans Creator Workforce mirrors the demographics that have long defined the sex Industry, skewing heavily female (84%) and young, with 86% aged 18 to 24.

Subscribers, as might be expected, are mostly male (87%), with the majority between 18 and 34 years old.

In 2026, those subscribers spent $7.8 billion on OnlyFans - up 7.6% from the year before - according to a new report from OnlyFinder, “OnlyFans Wrapped 2026.”

Creators collectively shared about $6.2 billion of that.

OnlyFans kept the rest, $1.6 billion, for operating the App that connects the two sides of the transaction.

To Continue Reading This Organizing Labor News Story, Go To: OnlyFans: Is it time for a content creators union? – People's World

San Diego Zoo Registrars 'Go Union,' Join Teamsters Local 481

Thu, 17 Sep 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA)– Registrars at the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance (SDZWA) have voted to join Teamsters Local 481, becoming the second group of Workers at SDZWA to organize with the Union this year.

Local 481 represents 1,800 Workers who are employed at the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, from Retail and Concessions to Wildlife Care Specialists and Horticulturalists.

In June, Veterinarian Technicians joined their Colleagues and organized with Local 481.

“We joined the Teamsters because we’ve seen firsthand the benefits that Union representation brings to other Employees at SDZWA,” said Jeremy Hodges, a Registrar at SDZWA and new Member of Local 481. “As registrars, we’re proud of the specialized work we do and we want to make sure our compensation, benefits and voice in the workplace reflect the value of that work.”

Registrars manage the Zoo’s wildlife collection record-keeping systems, regulatory compliance, and animal transaction tracking.

The group began organizing earlier this year after meeting with SDZWA Teamsters Stewards about their 2025 contract campaign, which caught the attention of the San Diego Community and Non-Union Zoo Workers.

“We’re proud to welcome the Registrars to the Teamsters,” said Erin Borgardt, who serves as Secretary-Treasurer of Local 481. “The momentum is building at SDZWA as more Workers recognize the power of standing together. We look forward to welcoming more Workers into our Union and fighting for one strong contract.”

Teamsters Local 481 represents 4,000 Members across the San Diego-area in Building Supply, Automotive, UPS and at the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park.

To Directly Access This Organizing Labor News Story, Go To: San Diego Zoo Registrars Join Teamsters - International Brotherhood of Teamsters

Labcorp Workers In Atlanta 'Go Union,' Vote To Join IUPAT

Tue, 15 Sep 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Labcorp Workers in the Metro Atlanta area will be voting this week to join the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT) District Council 77, which represents Members across the States of Georgia, Alabama, Arkansas, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Southwest Virginia. This organizing effort dates back to 2022. After Service Representatives scheduled their first National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) Election, Labcorp management held more than 15 hours of captive audience meetings. Staff were also subjected to surveillance, threats and other intimidation tactics. Unfair Labor Practice (ULP) complaints related to this drive were settled earlier this year and Workers were awarded more than $750,000 in back pay. With a new NLRB vote coming up, Labcorp is back to using Union-Busting tactics, but the Workers are undeterred and ready to win their Union representation.

For More On This Organizing Labor News Story, Go To: New/Mode | Make your voice impossible to ignore

National AFL-CIO-Provided Photo.

Denver's Legislative Workers 'Win Voluntary' Union Recognition From The City

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(DENVER, COLORADO) – The Legislative Workers of Denver have received voluntary recognition from the City of Denver Council and its Mayor.

The Legislative Workers of Denver is represented by the Denver Newspaper Guild, a Local of The NewsGuild-Communications Workers of America (CWA).

The Legislative Workers of Denver is a collective group of Part-Time and Full-Time Staff who provide specialized, professional-level work to support Denver’s 13 Elected City Council Members.

With this recognition, the Workers were heartened by the cooperative approach of the Mayor and City Council - and expect to see their partnership continue through a fair and timely bargaining process.

“We are seeking this Bargaining Unit as an extension of that commitment to Denverites and the Elected Officials we support,” the Workers wrote in a letter they sent to the City Council. “We believe that a Workforce imbued with Bargaining Rights and negotiated outcomes is a more resilient and effective Workforce. We believe this Unit and the outcomes of a formal negotiation will raise the retention rates among Staffers, improve living conditions for our Members, protect institutional knowledge of the Legislative Branch, and enhance the impacts we can make together for Denverites.”

The Denver City Council had previously unanimously referred Ballot Measure 2U, establishing Collective Bargaining Rights for City Employees, to Denver voters in November 2024.

The City Council also unanimously passed an Implementation Ordinance in December 2025, detailing the various processes to implement those rights.

And Denver voters overwhelmingly voted to support Public Workplace Democracy in Ballot Measure 2U.

“Denver deserves a Professional Legislative Workforce,” said Zack Burley, a Senior Council Aide and a Member of the Organizing Committee. “We love our jobs, we love our City and we want to serve its residents – this Union will improve outcomes for both Aides and residents by ensuring Public Workers in the Legislative Branch have meaningful input on their working conditions and job protections.”

The Legislative Workers are eager to enter into contract negotiations with City Leadership, to have a voice in their working conditions and to strengthen Denver’s Legislative Branch through the direct input of those who power it.

To Directly Access This Organizing Labor News Story, Go To: Denver’s legislative workers win voluntary recognition from city | The NewsGuild - TNG-CWA

True Concord Voices & Orchestra Musicians In Arizona 'Go Union' With The AFM

Thu, 10 Sep 2026 00:00:00 -0400

True Concord Voices and Orchestra Musicians in Arizona have decisively voted to form a Union with the Tucson Federation of Musicians-American Federation of Musicians (AFM) Local 33. Members cited concerns around safety issues due to loud noises at rehearsals, inconsistent scheduling, a lack of guaranteed working hours and no rights to recorded performances - despite the fact that some have been nominated for Grammy Awards. Even though management filed a request to overturn the directive for an election and has yet to set a date to start negotiations, the Members are undeterred and ready to win a fair contract. "We are ready, prepared and looking forward to reaching a fair agreement that benefits everyone involved - the Musicians, the organization and the community that supports us," said True Concord Viola Player and Local 33 Vice President Sarah Bromberg. "We simply need management to take the next step and join us at the bargaining table."

For More On This Organizing Labor News Story, Go To: True Concord orchestra votes to unionize; waits for negotiation meeting

Second Unit At unWired Broadband 'Wins Union Recognition With The CWA'

Tue, 08 Sep 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(FRESNO, CALIFORNIA) - Despite continued Anti-Union pushback from the company, unWired Broadband Fiber Technicians in California’s Central Valley have voted overwhelmingly in favor of joining the Communications Workers of America (CWA).

unWired Broadband is a Fresno, California-headquartered Internet Service Provider focused on serving the Central Valley of California - and is a portfolio company of O2 Investment Partners, a Bloomfield Hills, Michigan-based Private Equity Firm.

The election came one year after unWired Installation and Service Technicians voted to join CWA in June 2025.

Throughout the Organizing Campaign, unWired Technicians endured anti-Union Captive-Audience meetings and several Members of the Organizing Committee were illegally fired.

In July 2026, CWA reached a $75,000 settlement with unWired Broadband resolving several Unfair Labor Practice (ULP) Charges filed with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB).

However, the Workers demonstrated their commitment to a Union and held the company accountable for its unlawful behavior.

“We are proud to have stood together and won our Union,” said Chris Cooke, an unWired Broadband Fiber Technician and CWA Local 9408 Member. “As Fiber Technicians we know that we are critical to unWired’s success. We look forward to having a seat at the table to continue to improve the connectivity of the Central Valley while ensuring Democracy and dignity on the job.”

CWA Local 9408 President Jason Orozco said: “We are proud to welcome unWired Broadband’s second Bargaining Unit to the CWA Family. These Workers endured an aggressive campaign by unWired to thwart their right to organize, but they prevailed. CWA stands ready to bargain with unWired on behalf of both Bargaining Units so that unWired’s Technicians can continue to connect residents of California’s Central Valley to high-quality internet.”

CWA represents Members employed Telecommunications, Customer Service, Media, Airlines, Health Care, Public Service and Education, Manufacturing, Tech and other fields.

To Read This Organizing Labor News Story In Its Entirety, Go To: Second Unit at unWired Broadband Wins Union Recognition Following Battle With Company | Communications Workers of America

NABET-CWA Organizers 'Notch Two Decisive Wins For Broadcast Workers'

Thu, 03 Sep 2026 00:00:00 -0400

During the last month, National Association of Broadcast Employees and Technicians-Communications Workers of America (NABET-CWA) Organizers have notched two decisive wins for Broadcast Workers. In Washington, D.C., Workers at the outlet DC News Now (WDCW/WDVM) won their Union Election handily with a vote of 19-to-5 in favor. This Unit will join NABET-CWA Local 52031 and enter the fray against Network Behemoth Nexstar, poised to control stations reaching 80% of American households with their acquisition of TEGNA Inc. This merger was a major concern for Workers in the lead-up to organizing. Workers also cited concerns over staffing levels, burnout and insufficient compensation for additional responsibilities. “Many of us lost confidence that raising concerns individually would lead to meaningful change,” Organizing Committee Member William Hall said. “We needed a real voice in the decisions affecting our careers, our future. Organizing allows us to advocate collectively for fair pay, meaningful career advancement, adequate staffing, accountability, respect and a healthier workplace culture." At Weigel Broadcasting in Chicago, Illinois, Workers voted overwhelmingly for a Union and will now be joining NABET-CWA Local 54041. This 122-person Television Broadcasting Unit is a significant win for NABET-CWA. Major issues motivating the Workers included the company cutting remote work options and the decision to run ads for the Department of Homeland Security.

To Directly Access This Organizing Labor News Story, Go To: NABET-CWA Expands the Fight Against Nexstar | Communications Workers of America

Workers Employed At The Literary Bookstore & Cafe In Champaign, Illinois 'Go Union' With The RWDSU 'In Their Effort to Secure Living Wages, Consistent Scheduling & Workplace Safety'

Tue, 01 Sep 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(CHAMPAIGN, ILLOINIS) – The Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU) has announced Workers employed at The Literary, a beloved independent Bookstore and Café in downtown Champaign, Illinois, have voted overwhelmingly in favor of Unionization.

The victory at The Literary marks the latest chapter in a growing national wave of independent and large Bookstore Unionizing with the RWDSU, as well as a significant win for Workers in the Champaign-Urbana Community.

Organizing under the banner of The Lit United, Employees pointed to ongoing challenges on the shop floor: Stagnant wages; Skeleton staffing setups; Unpredictable shift scheduling; and a Lack of support from upper management.

Securing Union Representation gives the Workers a formal seat at the table to lock in a contract that aligns with the business's community-focused, progressive mission.

Cale Hartman, a Bookseller at The Literary, said: “The future of The Literary is bright. A Union means security. It means investment in such a cornerstone of the Champaign-Urbana community. I believe with collective power, The Literary will stay true to what it means to be a third space, and the Workers will be treated with the same respect and care we bring to our community every day.”

RWDSU President Stuart Appelbaum said: “The workers at The Literary have shown remarkable determination throughout this campaign to make their workplace a better place for everyone who walks through its doors. What happened in Champaign-Urbana is part of a much broader movement. Retail, Food Service and Bookstore Workers nationwide are declaring one shop at a time, and in one voice, that they deserve dignity, fair pay, and a real say in their daily working conditions.”

To Read This Organizing Labor News Story In Its Entirety, Go To: WORKERS AT THE LITERARY BOOKSTORE & CAFE VOTE TO JOIN RWDSU — Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU)

Suburban Chicago Daily Herald Journalists 'Announce Formation Of The Daily Herald News Guild'

Sun, 30 Aug 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, ILLINOIS) - In 2007, The Daily Herald conducted layoffs for the first time in its then-135-year history. Over the past 10 years, Employees of the Suburban Chicago newspaper saw their wages reduced by at least 15% and their work week reduced to 36.5 hours. During that same period, Employees experienced eight rounds of buyouts and/or combination buyouts and layoffs, culminating on August 10th with the dismissal of 12 Daily Herald Employees.

In response, an overwhelming majority of the Editorial Staff - whose combined experience totals more than 500 years - announced the establishment of The Daily Herald News Guild to secure competitive wages and pay equity, transparency and a strong voice in the future of their newsroom, and the ability to continue reporting on the suburban communities the paper has served for more than 150 years.

Standing together to form a Union, the Writers, Editors and Photographers - many of whom have worked at the Daily Herald for more than 25 years, aim to build on that tradition by protecting their newsroom from the forces threatening them and the industry in general.

The Organizing Committee has delivered a letter to Tribune Publishing, which acquired The Daily Herald in June, requesting voluntary recognition.

By forming the Union, the Journalists aim to address high turnover, advocate for pay equity and strengthen the publication’s community-focused coverage.

“For decades our newsroom has been decimated,” said Kevin Schmit, The Daily Herald’s Associate Sports Editor and a 29-year Employee of Illinois’ third largest Daily Newspaper. “And for too long crucial decisions have been made with no input from us, the Editorial Staff responsible for producing an award-winning newspaper. We take this step now to gain a seat at the table and because we remain committed to maintaining our status as the trusted voice of the Chicago Suburbs.”

The Daily Herald News Guild joins with The Chicago News Guild Local 34071 (The New Guild-Communications Workers of America) which represents more than 600 Media, Non-Profit and Publishing Workers throughout the Chicago area and nationally.

“It’s so exciting to see more Workers join the Chicago News Guild. Workers at the Daily Herald are ready to have a voice in their workplace and their futures. We’re looking forward to supporting these future Members as they advocate for job security and to protect local news,” Chicago News Guild Local 34071 President Owen Schmidt said.

The Daily Herald News Guild has filed for a Union Election with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) but will withdraw that request if management voluntarily recognizes the Union.

To Directly Access This Organizing Labor News Story, Go To: Daily Herald journalists announce formation of the Daily Herald News Guild | The NewsGuild - TNG-CWA

RTW Management California Bus Workers 'Go Union,' Join Teamsters Local 186

Thu, 27 Aug 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(CAMARILLO, CALIFORNIA) – Workers at RTW Management, Incorporated have voted overwhelmingly to join Teamsters Local 186.

The 22 Public Transportation Workers include Maintenance Dispatchers, Dial-A-Ride Drivers and Fixed-Route Drivers who are now ready to fight for a strong Teamsters contract that guarantees fair pay, better working conditions and a stronger voice on the job, Union Officials said.

“We’re so proud to welcome these newest Members to the Teamsters,” Local 186 Secretary-Treasurer Abel Garcia said. “They are no longer At-Will Employees and will now have the opportunity to secure the wage increases, improved working conditions and the protections that come with a Teamsters contract.”

Local 186 will now begin negotiating a first Collective Bargaining Agreement with RTW Management, Incorporated on behalf of the newly-organized group.

“When I think about the future and my fellow Co-Workers, I cannot express how proud I am to be a part of Local (186),” Jim Gaines, a Driver at RTW Management said. “This victory gives us a real voice on the job and the opportunity to secure a better future for ourselves and our families.”

Teamsters Local 186 represents Workers in a wide variety of industries throughout Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties in California.

To Directly Access This Organizing Labor News Story, Go To: RTW Management, Inc. Workers Join Teamsters Local 186 - International Brotherhood of Teamsters

Sam Adams Boston Brewery Staff Announce Their 'Go Union' Effort With UFCW Local 328 'For Better Job Security'

Tue, 25 Aug 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS) - Workers employed at the original Sam Adams Boston Brewery location in Jamaica Plain have gone public with their intent to join United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 328. Bartenders, Beer Ambassadors, Cooks and Key Holders have delivered a letter to management announcing their organizing effort. Staff cited concerns about job security, fair treatment, equality, the consistency of workplace policies, and wages and benefits. “If you’re talking to management over and over and over again and nothing’s changing, you’ve got to try something different,” said Zafi Smith, a Senior Beer Ambassador. “Seeing my Co-Workers reinvigorated by this has been incredible.” UFCW Local 328 represents Workers in Massachusetts and parts of New England, helping Employees in food Service, Retail and other fields. Union Representatives said they are excited to welcome the Jamaica Plain Sam Adams Brewery Workers into their Union.

For More On This Organizing Labor News Story, Go To: Sam Adams Boston Brewery Staff Announce Unionization Effort With UFCW Local 328 for Better Job Security - Boston's ROCK 92.9

Bally's Black Hawk Casino Workers 'Go Union,' Join Teamsters - 110 Workers 'Become First Casino Employees In Colorado To Unionize'

Sun, 23 Aug 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(BLACK HAWK, COLORADO) – A group of 110 Casino Workers at Black Hawk Casino in Black Hawk, Colorado have organized with Teamsters Local 455 through A Card-Check process.

This win marks the first time in Colorado history that Casino Workers have Unionized.

“The Workers at Black Hawk Casino came together to secure a stronger voice on the job and they’ve made history in the process,” said Tommy Blitsch, who serves as Director of the Teamsters Convention, Trade Show and Casino Division. “This victory is an inspiring reminder to Casino Workers across Colorado and nationwide that when you stand together, you can win a better future with the Teamsters.”

The group of Cooks, Cashiers, Bartenders, Servers, Housekeeping, Maintenance Technicians, Slot Attendants and Slot Technicians joined the Teamsters for wage increases, improved benefits, and safer working conditions.

“This is an important moment for Workers in Colorado and the entire Casino Industry,” Local 455 Secretary-Treasurer Dean Modecker said. “Our Brothers and Sisters at Local (455) are excited to welcome the newest Bargaining Unit to our family. And we’re ready to represent and protect them in the fight for a fair first contract.”

In November 2025, the Teamsters and Bally’s reached a landmark neutrality agreement.

Under the Card Check process, Bally’s Workers were able to choose Union Representation with the Teamsters by signing Authorization Cards.

“We saw an opportunity to make things better at work and we took it,” Housekeeper Alexander Balza said. “These changes will make a real difference not only for us, but for our families as well.”

Bally’s Black Hawk operates three premier Casino properties in Black Hawk, offering a unified experience for guests and Employees alike.

The three Casinos feature more than 540 slots, 33 table games and a premier poker room.

Nationwide, the Teamsters represent nearly 6,000 Members at Casinos and Casino Hotels.

The Teamsters represents 1.3 million Members in the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico.

To Directly Access This Organizing Labor News Story In Its Entirety, Go To: Bally’s Black Hawk Casino Workers Join Teamsters - International Brotherhood of Teamsters

USGS Water Science Center Employees In New York State 'Go Union' With NFFE-IAM

Thu, 20 Aug 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(ACROSS NEW YORK STATE) - A diverse group of more than 100 Professional and Non-Professional Employees at the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Water Science Center for New York have voted overwhelmingly to join the National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE)-International Association of Machinists (IAM), marking another major organizing victory for Federal Workers seeking a stronger voice on the job.

The newly-organized Bargaining Unit includes Hydrologic Technicians, Geologists, Physical Scientists, Hydrologists, Biologists and other Science Professionals who perform critical work monitoring and protecting New York’s water resources.

The Workers voted 88% in favor of Union Representation following a grassroots organizing campaign that united employees across multiple locations throughout the State.

Biologist Rebecca Gorney, who served as an Organizing Committee Leader, played a pivotal role in the successful campaign, helping build support among Co-Workers and coordinated efforts to secure signed Membership forms and encourage participation throughout the election process: “I come from a proud Union Family and I experienced firsthand the value of Union Representation in my previous State Government job. When dramatic changes began affecting Federal Workers in 2025, conversations among my Co-Workers quickly turned toward organizing. As we watched staffing levels decline through firings and buyouts, many of us realized the importance of having a ‘collective’ voice. Through all the uncertainty, Employees came to see that a Union provides stability, protection and a voice in the workplace. We are grateful to join the NFFE-IAM and look forward to working together to restore opportunities like telework, ensuring fair access to training and advancement and building a stronger future for everyone at the USGS Water Science Center.”

Throughout the campaign, Employees engaged their Co-Workers across the State, discussing the benefits of Collective Bargaining and the importance of having a united voice on workplace issues.

“This campaign is a perfect example of what happens when Workers take ownership of their future and stand together for a stronger voice on the job,” IAM Assistant Organizing Director Juan Eldridge said. “Rebecca and her Co-Workers built this victory from the ground up through determination, solidarity and countless conversations with their fellow Employees. We are proud to welcome these dedicated USGS Professionals into the NFFE-IAM family and look forward to helping them build a strong first contract.”

The victory adds to the Union’s growing presence among Federal and Professional Employees and highlights the increasing interest in Union Representation among Scientific and Technical Workers.

To Read This Organizing Labor News Story In Its Entirety, Go To: USGS Water Science Center Employees in New York Vote Overwhelmingly to Join NFFE-IAM - IAM Union

Columbus Metropolitan Library Workers 'Go Union'

Tue, 18 Aug 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(COLUMBUS, OHIO) - Ohio’s State Employment Relations Board confirms Staff Members at the Columbus Metropolitan Library (CML) have successfully voted to form a Union with the Ohio Federation of Teachers. The Bargaining Unit covers roughly 600 Librarians, Customer Services Specialists, Youth Engagement Specialists, Materials Services Associates, Drivers, Sorters and other Library Workers. Under the name CML United, Workers came together to address concerns around working conditions and the Library’s reliance on poorly-compensated, part-time Employees. Despite facing multiple delays and Unfair Labor Practices (ULPs) by management, Workers persevered and overwhelmingly won their election. “We stood together, across different Branches and different job titles, because we know that CML is a stronger Library System for our communities when Workers have a voice,” said Nancy Gillespie, an Information Services Specialist at CML’s Whitehall Branch. “We not only know what changes are needed to improve conditions for CML Workers, we also know what our patrons need and expect from their Libraries because we’re the ones who have direct, daily communication with them.”

For More On This Organizing Labor News Story, Go To: Columbus Metropolitan Library employees vote to officially unionize | WOSU Public Media

Public Library Workers In Geneva, Illinois 'Go Union' With AFSCME

Sun, 16 Aug 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(GENEVA, ILLINOIS) - Employees at the Geneva Public Library District in Illinois are coming together to form a Union with American Federation of State, County & Municipal (AFSCME) Council 31 to strengthen their voice on the job and improve the services they provide to their community.

The workers filed a majority interest petition with the Illinois Labor Relations Board in May.

Once certified, about 55 Geneva Library Employees will be represented by Council 31.

For the Workers, this effort is about respect, stability and having a real say in the decisions that shape their workplace, Union Representatives said.

In a letter to their Co-Workers, Members of the Union Organizing Committee said: “An empowered and unified workforce leads to greater Employee satisfaction, retention and productivity, resulting in a better Library for everyone. To that end, we have filed to form a Worker’s Union of Geneva Public Library Staff in order to collectively claim a seat at the table where decisions are made in this institution that means so much to us and to our community.”

Libraries offer an array of essential public services.

They are where families connect to the internet, students find support, job seekers access employment resources and neighbors gather.

Library Workers make all of that possible.

But too often, the people who keep public institutions running are asked to do more with less.

At a time when Libraries, Library Workers and Library patrons are facing attacks on funding, access and the freedom to read, Geneva Library Workers are standing together to protect the services their neighbors count on.

By coming together to form their Union, Geneva Library Workers are showing that when Public Service Workers have a voice, communities are stronger.

Their effort is part of a growing movement of Library Workers choosing to form Unions through AFSCME, which represents more than 35,000 Library Workers nationwide, including about 3,000 in Illinois.

Near Geneva, Workers at the St. Charles Public Library formed their AFSCME Union in 2021.

More than 50,000 Workers in Libraries, Museums, Zoos and other Cultural Institutions across the country have gained a seat at the table and a voice on the job through the AFSCME Cultural Workers United Campaign, the largest organizing effort of its kind in the Nation.

To Directly Access This Organizing Labor News Story, Go To: Public library workers in Geneva, IL, vote to form union with AFSCME - AFSCME

'Worlds Of Fun' Workers 'Vote Overwhelmingly' To Join IATSE Local 31 In Kansas City

Thu, 13 Aug 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI) – In a victory for Entertainment Workers in the region, Employees at the Worlds of Fun Amusement Park in Kansas City voted 21-to-1 to join International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 31.

The newly-formed Bargaining Unit covers 37 Workers across Technical Services, Wardrobe and Stitchers, Costumes and Creative Services.

The road to this victory was hard-fought at every turn, led by IATSE Representative Thomas Guidugli and Local 31 Leadership.

Conversations with workers began in early 2025, setting the campaign in motion, and by Summer a majority of Workers had signed and submitted cards to the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB).

The employer immediately moved to contest the composition of the Bargaining Unit and subsequently sold the company to new ownership, effectively resetting the campaign.

The employer’s efforts to delay and disrupt the Union did not end there.

The day before the scheduled vote the Park fired a lead Organizer, an action that constituted an Unfair Labor Practice (ULP), which was addressed accordingly.

Rather than walk away, the Crew regrouped and ultimately delivering a resounding answer and winning their Union.

Together, the Workers are now moving forward with bargaining a fair contract.

IATSE represents more than 170,000 Technicians, Artisans and Craftspersons in the Entertainment Industry, including live events, motion picture and television production, broadcast and trade shows in the United States and Canada.

To Directly Access This Organizing Labor News Story, Go To: ‘Worlds of Fun' Workers Vote Overwhelmingly to Join IATSE Local 31 in Kansas City - IATSE

Warehouse Workers At The Sphere In Las Vegas 'Go Union,' Join The Teamsters

Tue, 11 Aug 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(LAS VEGAS, NEVADA) – Warehouse Workers employed at the Sphere in Las Vegas have voted overwhelmingly to Unionize with Teamsters Local 986.

The 22 Warehouse Workers are responsible for receiving and managing all deliveries that keep the Music and Entertainment Arena operating. The Workers joined the Teamsters to secure higher wages, safer working conditions and respect on the job.

“These workers ‘are the heartbeat’ of the Sphere and the reason every show is successful,” said Tommy Blitsch, who serves as Director of the Teamsters Convention, Trade Show, and Casino Division. “They set the standard at one of the most high-profile venues in the world. They are part of a growing movement of Workers across convention centers, arenas and casinos standing together to demand their fair share.”

Beverly Wilson, a Warehouse Worker and new Member of Local 986, said: “My Co-Workers and I are proud of what we’ve accomplished in this campaign. Together, as Teamsters, our voices will be heard. This win is just the beginning and I’m excited for the positive changes ahead.”

Local 986 Vice President Tim Vera said: “Since the Sphere opened, it’s been ‘printing money.’ It has become ‘one of the biggest venues on the planet’ because of the Workers who keep it operating. Our newest Members won’t settle for scraps. We’re taking our fight to the table to win a strong first contract.”

The Sphere is the highest-grossing arena in the world, generating $781.4 million in revenue and 1.7 million tickets sold in 2025.

The Teamsters represent 1.3 million Members in the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico.

To Directly Access This Organizing Labor News Story, Go To: Workers at the Sphere Join Teamsters - International Brotherhood of Teamsters

WGA East & The ABC Network News 'Announce Recognition' Of The ABC Network News Digital Staff Union

Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NEW YORK CITY) – The Writers Guild of America East (WGAE) has reached an agreement with American Broadcasting Companies, Incorporated regarding the Union Representation process for Employees at ABCNews.com and ABC Network News’ Social Media Platforms.

Since the beginning of this process, ABC Network News and WGAE have engaged in productive and constructive discussions, reflecting a shared commitment to maintaining a collaborative and supportive workplace, Union Officials said.

In a Union Election counted on July 31st (2026), voters in ABC News Digital’s 50-Member Bargaining Unit voted unanimously to be represented by the WGAE.

The Unit includes Digital Reporters, Digital Editors, Digital Video Producers, and Social Media Producers who contribute to the content and operation of ABCNews.com and ABC Network News Social Media Platforms.

In a statement, Bargaining Unit Members said: “The industry is changing at a rapid pace and we want to help shape the version of ABC News that will emerge from this transition. We are excited to join hundreds of our ABC News Broadcast Colleagues and thousands of our fellow Disney Employees who are represented by Unions.”

WGAE President Tom Fontana said: “The WGAE has represented Unionized Workers at ABC News since the 1960s. We appreciate that management engaged in productive conversations for recognition and we look forward to winning Union protections for ABC News’ Digital Staff.”

In its Broadcast/Cable/Streaming News Sector, the WGAE also represents Workers at 1010 WINS, ABC News, Audacy (WCBS-AM, WBBM-AM, and KNX-AM), CBS News, CBS News Digital, CBS News 24/7, Fox 5 WNYW-TV, MSNOW, NBC Promo Writers, Thirteen Productions (Thirteen/WNET) and WBBM/CBS 2 News.

The WGAE represents more than 7,500 Members who work in Film, Television, News, Podcasts and On-Line Media.

To Directly Access This Organizing Labor News Report, Go To: ABC Network News and the WGA East Announce Recognition of ABC Network News Digital Staff Union | Press Room

Upper Darby Township & Sellers Memorial Free Public Library Workers In Pennsylvania 'Go Union' With AFSCME

Thu, 06 Aug 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Workers employed at the Upper Darby Township & Sellers Memorial Free Public Library in Pennsylvania have organized with AFSCME Council 13, marking a victory for Library Workers seeking a stronger voice on the job and a brighter future for the communities they serve. The Workers voted overwhelmingly in favor of their Union after months of organizing and having one-on-one conversations with each other about the issues facing their workplace. “We wanted to form a Union because we felt like we’d have more bargaining power to change our situation,” Program Coordinator Jean Kosha said. “People are really interested in forming a Union and they’re excited about what it will bring.” While fair wages and a strong first contract are top priorities, Library Workers say their organizing effort is also about protecting and strengthening a vital public institution. “We serve everybody,” Kosha said. “It’s not only about checking out books. It’s about serving the community.” More than 50,000 Workers employed in Libraries, Museums, Zoos and Other Cultural Institutions across the country have gained a seat at the table and a voice on the job through the AFSCME Cultural Workers United Campaign, the largest Organizing effort of its kind in the Nation. 

To Read This Organizing Labor News Story In Its Entirety, Go To: Organizing victory: Pennsylvania library workers win their AFSCME union - AFSCME

Workers Employed At Dallas-Area Contractor Stratus Systems 'Go Union,' Join SMART

Tue, 04 Aug 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Workers employed at Dallas-area contractor Stratus Systems overcame the challenges in their path to organize with International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (SMART) Local 68. Since 2023, the Workers partnered with Local 68 Organizers to build an organizing campaign through sustained outreach, relationship building and the determination of trusted Worker Leaders. Following Worker-to-Worker outreach in early 2023 that quickly turned into an Organizing Campaign by the end of the year, the Workers filed for an election with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). In January 2024, they lost that vote. But the Organizing Team rebuilt support by strengthening Worker engagement, forming an internal Organizing Committee and expanding Worker-led communication. Out of 168 Workers at the company, 96 signed Union Authorization Cards. In early 2026, Organizers secured a new NLRB Election, then executed an intensive campaign featuring daily strategy meetings, rapid-response jobsite outreach, Worker-to-Worker messaging and strong support from volunteer Leaders. “Everyone was feeling excited because we knew that the Workers knew the Union had their backs by the Workers’ smiles, honks and waves,” Organizer Yadriel Carrasquillo said.

For More On This Organizing Labor News Story, Go To: Texas workers build strength together, organize with SMART Local 68 - SMART Union

Mississippi Sawmill Workers 'Go Union,' Vote To Join The USW

Sun, 02 Aug 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(GLOSTER, MISSISSIPPI) – About 140 Workers employed at Big River Forest Products have voted to join the United Steelworkers (USW), becoming the latest Workforce in the South to Unionize in the fight for better working conditions and stronger communities.

The Workers serve in a variety of roles, including Operator and Mechanic, at the two-year-old Sawmill.

But while the Workers fuel the success of the Mill with their skill and dedication, management refuses to invest in them.

USW International President Roxanne Brown said: “More and more Workers across the South are doing what our new Members at Big River elected to do - leverage the power of solidarity and collective action to build better lives. The entire community benefits from a Union contract. Fair wages and working conditions enable Workers to share their resources with neighbors.”

The USW represents hundreds of thousands of Workers across numerous sectors in the U.S. and Canada and is particularly strong in paper, lumber and forestry.

USW International Vice President Luis Mendoza, who oversees paper-related bargaining for the Union, said: “Members in these industries collaborate across companies and borders to negotiate better contracts and safer workplaces. We’re excited to welcome the workers at Big River, knowing they will both contribute to our mission and draw strength from their colleagues Unionwide.”

The Big River Forest Products Workers overcame strong resistance from management to join the USW.

“These Workers persevered,” said USW District 9 Director Daniel Flippo, who leads USW Members in Mississippi, six other Southern States and the U.S. Virgin Islands. “Now, we expect the company to come to the table in good faith and bargain the contract these Workers earn every day.”

The USW represents 850,000 Workers in North America employed in many industries, including Metals, Mining, Rubber, Chemicals, Paper, Oil Refining, The Service, Public and Health Care Sectors and Higher Education.

To Directly Access This Organizing Labor News Story, Go To: Big River Forest workers form union - United Steelworkers

Wiki Workers United's U.S. Branch 'Demands Voluntary Recognition' From The Wikimedia Foundation, The Non-Profit That Hosts Wikipedia

Thu, 30 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA) - Wiki Workers United U.S. (WWU-US)/Communications Workers of America (CWA) has demanded voluntary recognition from the Wikimedia Foundation, the non-profit organization that hosts Wikipedia and sister projects.

This request comes from a super-majority of Union-eligible Workers who have signed Union Authorization Cards.

WWU-US is organizing with the CWA to represent eligible U.S.-based Workers.

Recent events at the Wikimedia Foundation have drastically escalated Worker concerns regarding transparency, trust, the organization’s future and leadership’s commitment to the free knowledge movement.

The Foundation’s Workers are calling on the organization to uphold its stated values and recent public commitments supporting the right to form a Union, giving Workers a promised and long-deserved voice.

This announcement follows a similar request for voluntary recognition made by WWU-UK, the UK Branch of WWU, represented by the United Tech and Allied Workers (UTAW), a national branch of the Communication Workers Union (CWU).

Together, the two branches reflect a growing movement among Wikimedia Foundation Workers to establish collective bargaining through the legal frameworks available in their respective countries.

CWA Organizing Director Tim Dubnau said: "We are hopeful that the Wikimedia Foundation will honor their stated values and quickly come to the table so that we can verify that an overwhelming majority support the Union. We are proud to support this group of dedicated and talented Workers. We are also deeply grateful for the strong solidarity of the volunteer community, the backbone of Wikipedia and its sister projects, that has pledged to stand shoulder to shoulder with these brave Workers.”

Wiki Workers United is a Global Solidarity Union of Wikimedia Foundation Workers committed to strengthening worker voice, transparency, equity and shared stewardship.

The WWU-US/CWA branch represents eligible U.S.-based Workers seeking Collective Bargaining Rights under the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA).

To Read This Organizing Labor News Story In Its Entirety, Go To: Wiki Workers United U.S. Branch Demands Voluntary Recognition from Wikimedia Foundation, the nonprofit that hosts Wikipedia | Communications Workers of America

Swaybox Workers In Louisiana 'Go Union' With IATSE, 'Winning One Of The Largest Organizing Campaigns In Recent Film & Television History'

Tue, 28 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA) - Workers employed at Swaybox Studios in New Orleans have voted to join the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE), securing Union Representation through a National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) Election and marking one of the largest Film and Television Organizing victories in the Union’s recent history.

The newly-organized Bargaining Unit includes 136 Workers, a number expected to grow significantly as Swaybox moves deeper into production on current and future projects.

The group includes a broad cross-section of Animation, Visual Effects, Editorial, Puppet and Set Fabrication, Costume, Prop, Technical, Engineering, Production Support, Information Technology, Facilities and Administrative Workers who bring Swaybox’s stop-motion productions to life.

Workers voted to Unionize after reaching out to IATSE, seeking support for industry standard wages, working conditions, benefits and a stronger voice on the job - conditions that are standard at Warner Brothers and other major studios agreements with the IATSE.

The margin of victory of counted ballots was 71.4%.

IATSE International President Matthew Loeb said: “Too many Workers in this segment of the Entertainment Industry believe they have to accept low pay or poor conditions because they’re told that’s how the job works. The Workers at Swaybox proved otherwise. If you’re working Non-Union and things aren’t right, if pay is low, take the first step and call the Union. We’ll have your back.”

To Read This Organizing Labor News Story In Its Entirety, Go To: Swaybox Workers in Louisiana Vote to Unionize, Winning One of the Largest Organizing Campaigns in Recent Film and Television History - IATSE

Audio Engineers At Three Denver Music Venues 'Go Union,' Vote To Join IATSE

Sun, 26 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(DENVER, COLORADO) - Over a dozen Audio Engineers at three of Denver’s most prominent Independent Music Venues have voted overwhelmingly to join the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 7.

Workers at The Oriental Theater, The Federal Theatre and HQ Denver each cast their ballots separately, delivering decisive majorities across all three venues.

The results were: The Federal Theatre: 11 Yes, 2 No; The Oriental Theater: 5 Yes, 1 No; and HQ Denver: 5 Yes, 1 No (Some Workers were eligible to vote in more than one election).

The three venues share common ownership and together represent a significant presence in Denver’s Independent Rock and Roll Market, operating outside the Live Nation and AEG Ecosystem that dominates much of the City’s entertainment landscape.

The Federal Theatre, which had sat vacant for several years, reopened last year as a music venue, making this Organizing victory part of its new chapter.

Workers first reached out to a Local 7 Organizer about Unionizing the venues following staffing changes at the properties.

A majority of Authorization Cards were collected in early May 2026 and the successful votes followed on June 30th.

“The Live Music Industry has long left its Crews behind. Unstable conditions, little to no benefits, and wages that fall well short of what a skilled workforce deserves,” Local 7 President Bryant Preston said. “We look forward to sitting down with the employer and getting to work on the issues these Workers face every day on the job.”

IATSE represents more than 170,000 Technicians, Artisans and Craftspersons employed in the Entertainment Industry, including Live Events, Motion Picture and Television Production, Broadcast and Trade Shows in the United States and Canada.

To Directly Access This Organizing Labor News Story, Go To: Audio Engineers at Three Denver Music Venues Vote to Join IATSE Local 7 - IATSE

Half Price Books Workers In Minnesota Win Union Election - Workers 'Seek Higher Wages, Better Staffing & A Voice On The Job'

Thu, 23 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(APPLE VALLEY, MINNESOTA) – Workers at Half Price Books in Apple Valley have voted to Unionize with United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 663, becoming the fifth Unionized Half Price Books Store in Minnesota and the 10th nationwide.

The Workers organized to win a voice on the job and to negotiate a first Union contract that includes higher wages, improved staffing levels, and a seat at the table when making decisions about their workplace.

“Half Price Books is attempting to iron out the individuality that shapes our community by standardizing our roles and incorporating AI (Artificial Intelligence) in our workplace,” Bookseller Drew Schmidt said. “Unionizing is our way of encouraging Half Price Books to correct its course.”

Apple Valley joins a growing nationwide movement of Unionized Half Price Books Workers at nine other locations nationwide, including four others in Minnesota, as Booksellers continue pushing for a voice in their workplace.

Workers at the Company’s Stores in St. Louis Park, Coon Rapids, St. Paul and Roseville organized in 2021, won their Union elections in 2022, and ratified their first contract in 2024.

“My Co-Workers at the Coon Rapids Half Price Books are thrilled that the Apple Valley Workers are joining us,” Bookseller Terell Paris said. “We know that our Union will be stronger together and that we can use that strength to make our workplaces better.”

Half Price Books, a privately-held Company headquartered in Dallas, Texas, now has five Unionized locations in Minnesota.

The UFCW - the largest Private Sector Union in the U.S., represent 1.3 million Members in health care, grocery stores, meatpacking, food processing, retail shops and other industries in all 50 States, and Canada and Puerto Rico.

To Directly Access This Organizing Labor News Story, Go To: Half Price Books Workers in Apple Valley Win Union Election - UFCW 663

Photo Courtesy Of The UFCW.

University Of Chicago Press Workers 'Overwhelmingly' Vote To 'Go Union'

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(CHICAGO, ILLINOIS) - The University of Chicago Press Workers Guild (UCPWG) has won their Union Election, with a majority of their 134 Members voting to become a Unit of the Chicago News Guild (The Newspaper Guild-Communications Workers of America (TNG-CWA) Local 34071, joining the Nationwide Labor Movement for a stronger Publishing Industry.

In a decisive victory, 89% of Workers voted in favor of Union Representation.

Workers held a mixed-manual-mail ballot election with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). Onsite and hybrid Workers based at the University of Chicago Press’s Campus Office voted in person on June 9th and 10th, while out-of-state, remote, and eligible Chicago Distribution Center Workers voted by mail.

The formation of this Unit marks a significant moment, as it is the first Union for most of the Departments at the Press, following certain Chicago Distribution Center Departments that are already organized with the Teamsters.

Workers will soon begin bargaining for the first UCPWG contract.

“I’m immensely proud of my fellow Workers for their hard work and dedication to winning this election,” said Meredith Nini, Senior Promotions Manager at the Press. “These election results show that Press Workers are bound together with a common mission. We look forward to bargaining for a contract that ensures a sustainable and equitable workplace for years to come.”

“I am so excited to have these Workers join the Chicago Guild,” Chicago News Guild President Owen Schmidt said. “This result demonstrates that these Workers are ready for real change and a voice in their workplace. I’ve been so impressed by the Organizing Committee for their persistence and commitment to Democracy. They are going to do so many great things at the local level and I stand with them in their fight for pay equity, better working conditions and a more Democratic workplace.”

University of Chicago Press Workers had their ballots counted one day after Workers at Hachette Book Group unionized with the Washington-Baltimore News Guild

To Directly Access This Organizing Labor News Story, Go To: University of Chicago Press workers overwhelmingly vote to unionize | The NewsGuild - TNG-CWA

Photo Courtesy Of The TNG-CWA.