Across Connecticut, workers are rising—and they’re not alone. From machinists to caregivers to ironworkers, the last few months have shown the true meaning of solidarity and what’s possible when workers stand together. But even as victories stack up, so do the attacks on our rights.

The Wins: What Solidarity Has Delivered

Ironworkers at Jescraft
After weeks of holding the line in Oxford, the ironworkers at Jescraft who struck for union recognition won big: management formally recognized their union, marking a critical step forward for workplace safety, job security, and respect. These workers braved unsafe conditions and broken promises—and walked out to demand better. Now, they have a voice on the job.

Pratt & Whitney IAM Members
Over 3,000 machinists stood strong against efforts to weaken retirement security and shift rising healthcare costs onto workers. After a powerful strike and 24-hour picket lines, they reached a tentative agreement that reflects the strength of a united workforce.

SEIU 1199 Nursing Home Workers
More than 5,700 caregivers were prepared to walk off the job on May 27th—but because of their organizing and pressure on the Governor, a last-minute agreement was reached, averting the strike and delivering gains in staffing, safety, and compensation. This wasn’t a gift—it was a win earned by members who refused to be ignored. 

UAW Workers at Electric Boat
With over 2,400 members authorizing a strike for a fair contract, UAW workers forced the issue to the bargaining table. Their action helped shine a light on the urgent need for real investment in skilled trades and the workers behind Connecticut’s defense industry.

Backus Hospital AFT Nurses
In Norwich, nurses continue to sound the alarm about a deteriorating patient care crisis. Their informational picket on May 15 drew widespread support and helped spotlight the link between safe staffing and patient safety. Their advocacy is part of a growing movement demanding healthcare that respects both caregivers and those they care for.

The Threats: Rights on the Chopping Block

But just as workers across the state have begun to make gains, there’s a disturbing pattern emerging in the legislature. Republican leaders are trying to strip away key labor protections, including:

• Blocking unemployment benefits for striking workers

• Weakening arbitration rights for public sector workers

• Undermining our right to strike
   

These are not just policy disagreements—they are attacks on the very foundation of union power. Denying unemployment during a strike is a cruel tactic to force workers into silence. Gutting arbitration tilts the playing field in favor of management. Chipping away at the right to strike is nothing less than an assault on collective bargaining itself.

What We’re Fighting For

We are fighting back with legislation like SB 8, which would provide unemployment benefits for striking workers—because no one should have to choose between standing up for their rights and putting food on the table. It’s about dignity, fairness, and protecting the right to fight for better conditions.

We’re also fighting for bold budgets, fair contracts, and real investments in the workers who make Connecticut run. Every time someone says “we can’t afford it,” remember: we have the second-largest surplus in state history. What we can’t afford is continued disinvestment.
We believe in a Connecticut where every worker is respected. Where strikes are not a last resort but a turning point. Where the labor movement isn’t just surviving—it’s growing stronger.

Let’s be clear: we are not the problem—we are the solution. From Jescraft to Backus, from the Capitol to the picket line, our message is clear:
When we fight, we win together.