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#WaybackWednesday to the CIO's 1944 constitutional convention in Chicago. Prior to the merger of the AFL-CIO in 1955, the CIO was a separate labor federation that aimed to organize "unskilled" workers. Our team found this vintage credential on a trip to Detroit where we visited the Walter Reuther Library and met with UAW Archivist Gavin Strassel. #1u #UnionStrong #LaborHistory
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It's crunch time. We've got less than 30 days until the Illinois General Assembly adjourns and there are scores of bills that we need to pass to support working people. Do you know what your union is up to in the Capitol?
We're partnering with unions from the trades to the arts to:
✊ Create an equitable unemployment system
✊ Retain public education professionals in our schools
✊ Address pension inequities
✊ Support our arts unions
✊ Improve job site safety standards
✊ and more...
Pictured: Illinois AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer testifying on the Unemployment Equity Act (HB4416).
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Last month, the University of Illinois and Climate Jobs Institute hosted a group of grassroots women leaders from Chile’s Biobío coal basin and introduced them to workers and families in Illinois. As part of their visit, they visited the Christian County Coal Museum, where they met with IL AFL-CIO President Tim Drea, and learned about his upbringing in the labor movement as a coal miner in Central Illinois.
Solidarity knows no limit. From the coal mines of Chile to the mines of Central Illinois, we're all fighting for dignity, safety and fairness. #1u #MiningHistory #UnionMiners
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IL AFL-CIO and Climate Jobs Illinois Equity Director Chynna Hampton joined Northwestern University for a discussion on workforce resilience. Chynna met with students and spoke about our work to create an equitable and skilled workforce that meets the needs of energy demands in the 21st century. #ceja #GreenJobs #UnionStrong
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It’s May Day and the Illinois Labor movement is standing strong with AFSCME Local 1110 members on strike at Illinois State University. Today is day 24 of their struggle, but the members are building momentum and remain united and determined.
if you can, please consider standing in solidarity by making a donation to their strike fund to support these workers as they fight for a fair contract: www.spotfund.com/story/3d4789ec-2be2-4cfe-8654-a7f94bcb80d5
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Are YOU interested in learning about how to form a union? On 5/23, the East Central Illinois AFL-CIO will host a workshop so you can learn how to take the steps to form a union in your community.
👉 Sign up via the link or the QR code:
go.illinois.edu/FormAUnion
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Illinois AFL-CIO Reflects on Life and Legacy of Barbara Flynn Currie, Contributions to Illinois’ Working Families
Springfield, IL — Illinois AFL-CIO President Tim Drea and Secretary-Treasurer Pat Devaney released the following statement: The Illinois labor movement is saddened by the passing of the Honorable Barbara Flynn Currie, a pioneering lawmaker and the first woman to serve as Majority Leader in the Illinois House of Representatives at a time when women were […]
2026 Workers’ Memorial Day Events
Join working families as they observe Workers Memorial Day on April 28. Pledge to continue the fight for SAFE JOBS NOW. Alton – The Greater Madison County Federation of Labor Workers Memorial program will be held Tuesday, April 28 at 7:00pm at Gordon Moore Park, at the Workers Memorial Site, Highway 140, in Alton Illinois. […]
Mid-Illinois Labor Council “Modernizes the Movement,” Electing New Officers
Decatur, IL – Last night, Illinois AFL-CIO President Tim Drea swore in the Mid-Illinois Labor Council’s nine new officers, who affirmed their commitment to advocating for union members and their families. The newly inaugurated leadership emphasized building strong partnerships with community organizations and engaging in political campaigns aimed at improving the lives of working people. The […]
Illinois AFL-CIO Honors IDOL Director, Two General Assembly Members At “Labor Salutes” Award Ceremony
Springfield – Tonight, the Illinois AFL-CIO honored three Illinois leaders for their outstanding contributions to the state’s labor movement at its annual “Labor Salutes” awards ceremony. “The Illinois labor movement is proud to stand behind these three leaders who have spent their entire careers relentlessly fighting for working families,” stated Illinois AFL-CIO President Tim Drea. […]