Future of Work, Unions? Let’s Talk.
Many of you know that I grew up in the small coal mining town of Nemacolin, Pa. I worked in the mines while I went to college, got a law degree and got my start in the union movement with the Mine Workers (UMWA).
A lot has changed since I first went to work in a coal mine. The economy is different. Work is different. The workplace is different—some people go to work without even leaving their homes.
Today, people keep working harder and longer—and still can't get ahead. Inequality is on the rise, and fewer workers have a voice on the job. I want to know what kind of movement can meet these real needs of working women and men—today and in the future?
At the AFL-CIO, we’re asking questions and looking for ideas—from you.
I know you have a lot to say. I’d like to hear it.
Click here to visit AFLCIO2013.org and join the conversation about the future of work.
At our AFL-CIO Convention in September, we need to be ready to make decisions about how the union movement should change and what we can do together to make a better future for working people. We’re taking a hard look at ourselves and also asking for ideas from everybody who’ll share them—from people inside and outside the labor movement, from progressives, academics and student groups. We want ideas from anyone who cares deeply about building a real movement for working people and making sure everyone has a voice on the job.
These discussions will be happening all across the country, both in person and online. How can we compete in a global economy? How can communities make an impact on workers’ rights? What’s the union movement’s proper relationship to the Democratic Party?
Please share your ideas at AFLCIO2013.org—even your off-the-wall ideas. We’re listening.
I look forward to hearing from you.