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Another pre-apprentice has earned his way into a union as the result of the Climate Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) that we passed in 2021!
Judah Shelby has always been creative and enjoyed painting and creating. It’s why he took part in the East Central Illinois Building and Construction Trades 2024 pre-apprentice program, with an eye on joining Painters Local 363.
The local didn’t have openings after he graduated, but he persisted by getting a job in the industry to gain experience, and stayed in close contact with the union.
In May, the spot he had been waiting for opened up and he became a card carrying member of the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades Local 363!! Congratulations, Judah!!!
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Congratulations to the newest members of National Nurses United! RNs at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago secured 77% of votes in favor of collective bargaining. Welcome to the labor movement!
chicago.suntimes.com/health/2026/05/18/rush-nurses-unionize-celebrate-vote
#1u #UnionStrong
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Isn't it ironic, don't ya think?
...that the museum housing Chicago's labor archives is engaged in an egregious union busting campaign by firing employees for unionizing.
C'mon Chicago History Museum, hasn't history taught you that it's illegal to retaliate against workers for exercising their freedom to join a union?
chicago.suntimes.com/business/2026/05/18/chicago-history-museum-labor-law-firing-employees-unioni...
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Today is day 10 of the ULP (unfair labor practice) strike at Breakthru Beverage.
Teamsters Local 710 Drivers who work out of the Cicero and Rochelle distribution centers are standing strong for a fair contract.
These workers go above and beyond to keep our shelves stocked, educate customers, and ensure we have our favorite beverages at our local bars, restaurants, and stores. They work hard for us so we can enjoy our lives. They deserve a contract that gives them that same respect and quality of life.
#teamstersstrong #1u #UnionStrong
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We’re not just talking about mental health in Illinois — we’re bringing the conversation directly into Union Halls like Plumbers Local 130.
Tradespeople from across the industry came together to speak openly about the stress, pressure, and stigma that too many workers face in silence. Electricians, Ironworkers, Plumbers, and Mental Health Professionals shared real experiences and collaborated to bring back to their unions to create a stronger, more effective approach to mental health support in the trades.
This is how we start changing the narrative — together.
#MentalHealth #UnionStrong #ConstructionIndustry #ChicagoUnions
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When the labor movement puts members first, we all win.
Painters District Council 30 recently launched their Building Union Member Power training series. In the last month, they've hosted trainings for members in Morton, Aurora, and Elgin.
Participating members learned about the values of the union, its history, and opportunities to become more involved through committee service and political action, pathways to leadership, and giving back to the community.
#UnionStrong #1u
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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. […]