As the complexities of the modern workplace continue to evolve, unions across the country are steadfast in defending the rights, safety, and dignity of workers. This month’s "Solidarity Season" is marked by significant events that underscore the ongoing struggle for a fair and just work environment. From congressional investigations to strikes and rallies, the labor movement is proving that collective action is more crucial than ever.

Omni New Haven Hotel Workers Rally for a Fair Contract

Right here in New Haven, Connecticut, workers at the Omni New Haven Hotel have taken to the streets, marching and rallying to demand a new contract. These workers, many of whom have been on the front lines during the pandemic, are now fighting for fair wages, better working conditions, and job security. Their August rally was a clear statement that they will not be overlooked or undervalued by their employer.

House Subcommittee Raises Concerns Over OSHA’s Rulemaking and Enforcement

On July 24, the House Education & Workforce Subcommittee on Workforce Protections held a hearing titled, “Safeguarding Workers and Employers from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) Overreach and Skewed Priorities.” This hearing addressed concerns about OSHA’s recent rulemaking efforts, particularly the heat injury and illness standards and walkaround rules, as well as its perceived inaction in areas where workers desperately need protection, such as the tree care industry.

The hearing highlighted the ongoing debate over OSHA’s role in balancing worker safety with business operations. While some lawmakers argue that OSHA’s new rules are overly burdensome, others believe the agency has not done enough to protect workers in high-risk industries. The labor movement must remain vigilant in this debate, ensuring that worker safety remains the top priority in any regulatory discussions. OSHA’s mission is to safeguard workers, and it is crucial that its policies reflect this, even amid opposition.

AT&T Workers Strike Over Safety Concerns

The fight for worker safety is not confined to congressional hearings. On the ground, workers are taking direct action to demand safer working conditions. Communications Workers of America (CWA) members at AT&T have been striking for several days at the time of this writing, raising serious concerns about workplace safety. They have highlighted the dangerous conditions that workers face daily and are demanding that the company address these issues immediately.

AT&T workers are not just fighting for themselves; they are setting a standard for workplace safety that all companies should follow. Their actions underscore the importance of unions in holding employers accountable and ensuring that safety is never sacrificed for profit.

SAG-AFTRA Strikes Back Against AI and Injustice in the Entertainment Industry

In the entertainment industry, members of the Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) have launched another strike. This strike, which includes video game performers, centers around concerns over the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and its potential impact on job security and fair compensation for performers. Additionally, the union is demanding better wages and working conditions, highlighting growing inequality in the industry.

The SAG-AFTRA strike is significant not only for the entertainment industry but for all workers who are facing the encroachment of AI in their fields. It raises crucial questions about the future of work and the role that unions will play in protecting workers from technological displacement. It is a call to action for all of us to consider how we can ensure that advancements in technology benefit workers rather than exploit them.

As we continue to advocate for safer workplaces, fair contracts, and protections against technological threats, we must draw strength from the collective efforts of unions and workers everywhere. The labor movement remains a force for positive change, and together, we can build a future where all workers are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.