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BREAD AND ROSES: EXPLORING THE TAPESTRY OF AMERICAN LABOR HISTORY WITH BRUCE WATSON Mike interviews Bruce Watson. In this episode, we delved deep into the heart of American labour history with acclaimed author Bruce Watson, discussing his captivating book “Bread and Roses: Mills, Migrants, and the Struggle for the American Dream.” Buckle up as we uncover the untold tales of resilience, struggle, and triumph in pursuing the American Dream. SUMMARY The conversation started with reflections on the profound sacrifices made by workers throughout history. I pointed out the stark reality of the past, where individuals were willing to give up their livelihoods for meagre pay. But amidst the challenges, Bruce illuminated the inspiring narratives he uncovered during his research for the book. As we delved more profoundly, the discussion turned to the pivotal role of unions in shaping American labour history. Drawing from my own insights, I acknowledged the invaluable contributions of unions in championing workers’ rights, especially during the early 1900s. However, we didn’t shy away from addressing the issues of corruption and power struggles that plagued unions over time. Bruce provided a nuanced perspective, highlighting the significant milestones achieved by unions, from securing minimum wage to advocating for occupational safety laws. He emphasized that despite the flaws, unions played a vital role in advancing workers’ rights and shaping the American landscape. @milliondollarbookman @thedreamstarter https://lnkd.in/dG7ZCDim

In a recent interview with the Chicago Reader, I spoke about the surge in unionization of the city's service workers and the political implications of unionizing. Following the pandemic, our country has seen the service industry organize at an unprecedented rate. Whenever there’s a union drive, it’s an effort to pull some power away from the employers. And that becomes something that has strong political implications. Read more of our conversation at: https://lnkd.in/eiDJDc_4

Collective Prayer for Justice: Reinstate Dani Afgani, General Secretary of FSBMM Workers at PT. Anugerah Mutu Bersama (AMB) are united in demanding justice for Dani Afgani, the General Secretary of FSBMM, who was unjustly dismissed for performing his union duties. Despite following proper procedures and agreeing to a pay cut, Dani received a third warning (SP3) and was terminated. This is not just about one person’s job but symbolizes the larger struggles of the working class. Dani's case is part of a broader fight for class consciousness, unity, and justice. Our collective prayers demand a clear outcome: Reinstate Dani Afgani. Class Consciousness and Collective Action As Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels emphasized, “The history of society is the history of class struggles.” Dani’s dismissal reflects the larger power dynamics between labor and capital. It is a reminder that collective action is essential in standing up for workers’ rights. This dismissal is an attack on all workers, and by standing together, we show that we will not allow this to happen without a fight. Organization and Struggle Vladimir Lenin taught us the importance of organized struggle. Spontaneous actions are not enough for lasting change—workers must be united and strategic. Dani’s dismissal attempts to weaken the union's power, sending a clear message to all workers: don't organize. But we know strong unions are crucial to protecting workers’ rights and advocating for fairness. Justice Beyond One Worker Leon Trotsky’s theory of permanent revolution reminds us that the fight for Dani is part of a broader movement for workers’ rights and better working conditions. This struggle goes beyond Dani’s reinstatement—it’s about securing respect and dignity for all workers. Challenging Cultural Hegemony Antonio Gramsci’s concept of cultural hegemony is crucial in understanding how companies shape societal beliefs to maintain control. Dani’s dismissal is an attempt to normalize silencing union leaders. However, we recognize the importance of unions in protecting our rights, and we will not let this narrative take root. Moving Forward Our demand remains: Reinstate Dani Afgani. But we also fight for justice and fairness for all workers. This is about protecting every worker's right to organize without fear. Together, we can build a movement that not only reinstates Dani but paves the way for a fairer future for all workers. #ReinstateDaniAfgani #JusticeForWorkers #ClassConsciousness #UnionStrong #WorkersUnite #FightForFairness

On this Labor Day, let's pause to recognize the dignity of all labor and the contributions of every worker. #LaborDay #DigitalMarketingAgency #BusinessLocus #BL #EcommerceAgency

Union power plays an important role in addressing social and economic inequalities.Building union power is vital for workers to advocate for their rights and achieve better working conditions. Unions serve as a platform for employees to collectively negotiate with management and address issues such as wages, benefits, and workplace safety.Coming together as a collective voice, workers have the strength and leverage to demand fair treatment and make meaningful changes in their workplaces. Standing in solidarity with one another and engaging in collective action, employees can strengthen their bargaining power and bring about positive change in their workplaces.. Engaging this conversation with Petronella Mpofu and Faith Irene Lanyero #unionbuilding #unionpower #solidarity #onevoice

BREAD AND ROSES: EXPLORING THE TAPESTRY OF AMERICAN LABOR HISTORY WITH BRUCE WATSON Mike interviews Bruce Watson. In this episode, we delved deep into the heart of American labour history with acclaimed author Bruce Watson, discussing his captivating book “Bread and Roses: Mills, Migrants, and the Struggle for the American Dream.” Buckle up as we uncover the untold tales of resilience, struggle, and triumph in pursuing the American Dream. SUMMARY The conversation started with reflections on the profound sacrifices made by workers throughout history. I pointed out the stark reality of the past, where individuals were willing to give up their livelihoods for meagre pay. But amidst the challenges, Bruce illuminated the inspiring narratives he uncovered during his research for the book. As we delved more profoundly, the discussion turned to the pivotal role of unions in shaping American labour history. Drawing from my own insights, I acknowledged the invaluable contributions of unions in championing workers’ rights, especially during the early 1900s. However, we didn’t shy away from addressing the issues of corruption and power struggles that plagued unions over time. Bruce provided a nuanced perspective, highlighting the significant milestones achieved by unions, from securing minimum wage to advocating for occupational safety laws. He emphasized that despite the flaws, unions played a vital role in advancing workers’ rights and shaping the American landscape. @milliondollarbookman @thedreamstarter https://lnkd.in/dbKMkp8T

Labor 👷 Day in the United States honours workers and their contributions to the society. It’s a federal holiday that marks the contributions and achievements 🏆 of American workers and the labor movement and to recognize the contributions of workers gained traction through the efforts of labor union. The holiday marks the unofficial end of summer and is often associated with parades, picnics, and various recreational activities. Many communities use the holiday to raise awareness about current labor issues and support local initiatives that advocate for workers' rights. Labor Day also provides an opportunity to reflect on the progress made in labor rights and the on-going efforts to improve working conditions. #laborday #celebration #federalholiday #laborlaw #laborunion #celebration #courseministry #awareness #recognition #laborissues

Labor 👷 Day in the United States honours workers and their contributions to the society. It’s a federal holiday that marks the contributions and achievements 🏆 of American workers and the labor movement and to recognize the contributions of workers gained traction through the efforts of labor union. The holiday marks the unofficial end of summer and is often associated with parades, picnics, and various recreational activities. Many communities use the holiday to raise awareness about current labor issues and support local initiatives that advocate for workers' rights. Labor Day also provides an opportunity to reflect on the progress made in labor rights and the on-going efforts to improve working conditions. #laborday #celebration #federalholiday #laborlaw #laborunion #celebration #courseministry #awareness #recognition #laborissues

The FTC is set to vote on a proposed final rule that could curb the use of noncompete clauses by most employers, aiming to prevent practices that stifle wages and innovation. Chair Lina M. Khan announced a special Open Commission Meeting on April 23, 2024, where the rule will be discussed, continuing the FTC's efforts to promote fair competition and protect workers' rights. Sharing a link to a New York Times Opinion piece that delves into the personal impact non-competes have on workers in the market place. #HR #HumanResources #FTC #Noncompete #FairCompetition

Card check certification is often considered effective in organizing a union for several reasons: Streamlined Process: Card check certification simplifies the unionization process by allowing employees to indicate their support for unionization by signing authorization cards. This streamlined approach reduces the time and resources required for traditional union elections, which can be lengthy and contentious. Reduced Employer Interference: In traditional union elections, employers have the opportunity to engage in anti-union campaigns, including intimidation tactics and misinformation, which can influence employees' voting decisions. Card check certification minimizes this interference by providing a more private and direct method for employees to express their desire to unionize without facing external pressure. Protecting Workers' Rights: Card check certification helps to safeguard workers' rights to organize by ensuring that their decision to unionize is free from coercion or intimidation. By allowing employees to confidentially sign authorization cards, card check certification empowers workers to exercise their collective bargaining rights without fear of reprisal from employers. Reflecting Majority Support: Under card check certification, a union is certified if a majority of employees sign authorization cards expressing their support for unionization. This process accurately reflects the collective will of the workforce, making it a fair and democratic way to determine union representation. Promoting Fair Labor Practices: By facilitating unionization through card check certification, workers gain a stronger voice in negotiating wages, benefits, and working conditions. This can lead to more equitable treatment in the workplace and help address issues such as low wages, unsafe working conditions, and lack of job security. Overall, card check certification is effective in organizing a union because it provides a transparent, efficient, and democratic process that protects workers' rights and promotes fair labor practices.