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Workers fought tirelessly to pass a transportation bill that would fund our systems well into the future. Today, the Northern Illinois Transportation Act takes effect. This landmark piece of legislation that would not have been possible without the hundreds of workers who shared their stories with the public, the Illinois General Assembly taking the time to listen and meet with workers, and the workers, advocates and legislators that came together to put forward policy suggestions that is now law.
www.chicagotribune.com/2026/06/01/transit-funding-legislation/
#nita #1u #twill #UnionStrong
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Collective bargaining remains the best tool against discrimination of any kind, which is why we fight so that working people of all sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions can enjoy the protections of a union contract. From Bayard Rustin’s central role in the March on Washington to the ongoing advocacy of Pride at Work, LGBTQ+ workers have always been and always will be a central part of our labor movement.
#UnionStrong #1u #PrideMonth
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Government works best when elected officials and their constituents meet face to face, share their concerns, and hammer out solutions together.
That's why IBEW 197 hosted U.S. Senator Dick Durbin -- while Durbin may be nearing the end of the term, he will always be a champion for working people and has stood with union workers throughout his entire career.
Thank you, Senator, for all you do to fight for the middle class.
#UnionStrong #1u
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Brandi Johnson, a senior from Lewistown Community High School, is the newest member of our Illinois labor movement. Brandi reminds us that there are various pathways to financial security and a fulfilling career beyond college. After deciding she wanted a hands on career, Brandi signed a commitment to join IUPAT District Council 30’s Apprenticeship Program and Local 157.
We’re excited to see what's next for Brandi!
#UnionStrong #ConstructionTrades #RegisteredApprenticeship
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Four days until the Illinois General Assembly adjourns — and from now until midnight on May 31, it’s game on.
We’re fighting for:
➡️ An end to surveillance pricing
➡️ Fixing our unemployment system so excluded workers — including many of our most vulnerable and lowest-paid workers — finally get the support they deserve
➡️ Critical infrastructure improvements that create good, middle-class union jobs
➡️ Equitable housing that puts working families first
Follow along at ILGA.gov — and give us a wave if you see us running around the Capitol.
#UnionStrong #1u #twill
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Most of us have seen digital screens replacing printed price tags in grocery stores.
Retailers say electronic shelf labels (ESLs) improve pricing accuracy and make updates more efficient for employees.
What they don’t talk about is how this technology enables “surveillance pricing” — using consumer data, demographics, and shopping behavior to influence prices in real time.
That same carton of milk could cost $3.50 on the North Side of Chicago, but $5.00 across town at the exact same store and at the exact same time.
Same product. Same chain. Different neighborhood. Price gauging brought to you by surveillance pricing.
civileats.com/2026/05/19/union-seeks-ban-on-surveillance-pricing-at-grocery-stores/
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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. […]