Plans Advance to Defend Migrant Families

 

Immigrant organizations, school boards, mayors and state officials have been meeting with comunities across the state to put into place protections for immigrant families in advance of Trump's promised deportation raids.

Attorney General William Tong has made it clear that Connecticut's values of protecting all residents will be upheld including the Connecticut Trust Act which prohibits government workers from cooperating with federal immigration officials.

In addition to neighborhood community meetings being held by organizations such as Semilla Collective in New Haven and Deportation Defense in Hartford, an Immigration Town Hall in New Haven on December 5 with Tong, New Haven Mayor Elicker and School Superintendent Dr. Madeline Negrón indicated that multi-lingual “know your rights” materials, additional school counselors, and outreach to nearby towns are being put into place as part of a coaalition-building effort.

In New Haven a General Order also prohibits city personnel from cooperating with immigratin authorities.

On December 18, International Migrant's Day, immigrant led organizations held a press conference at New Haven city hall as part of a national grassroots day of action and solidarity including Unidad Latina, Hamden Action NOW!, Peoples Center, NDLON, NILC, Greater New Haven Peace Council and CT Shortline Indivisible, in collaboration with the National Day Laborer Organizing Network (NDLON).

In a statement NDLON said, “As the incoming Trump administration advances its threats of mass deportations, immigrant committees and worker centers are convening actions big and small to unify immigrant communities, local and national partners.  In the face of the many attacks against indigenous migrant communities and the threat of deportations by Donald Trump

“Our adversaries wish and expect our immigrant communities to disappear in the silence of night.  That is because they know nothing of our courage.  But we know of the courage in our communities,” said Pablo Alvarado, Co-Executive Director of NDLON.  “They want to instill fear in us, with their extremist rhetoric and policies. But all they will do is fan the flames of our indignation.  And we will turn this indignation into action.” 

At the Immigration Town Hall Tong, who is reaching out to Attorneys General in other states, called on all community organizations to become engaged saying the experience of struggle gives hope. “It is only possible if we fight for each other.”

Union Sues to Hold PURA Accountable

 

Communication Workers of America Local 1298 (CWA) filed suit in Connecticut Superior Court against the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) to halt its interference in CWA’s collective bargaining agreement with Frontier Communications.

CWA’s labor contract protects job security and limits Frontier’s use of non-union contractors. Recent PURA decisions purport to compel Frontier to use contractors for vital utility pole repair work, however, in violation of a state statute that prohibits PURA from interfering with labor contracts.

Jordan Cozby, a law student intern in the Worker and Immigrant Rights Advocacy Clinic at Yale Law School, which represents CWA Local 1298, stated, “Without legal authorization, PURA has gone to extraordinary lengths to undermine union jobs in Connecticut and make utility poles less safe. This is the kind of behavior we’re accustomed to seeing from corporations who ship jobs overseas, not from a state government agency. By holding PURA accountable in this lawsuit, CWA Local 1298 will protect Connecticut jobs and infrastructure.”

Collective bargaining agreements have always been central to protecting Connecticut telecommunications workers’ jobs, wages, benefits and safety. This protection strengthens the local economy and investment in skilled workforces.

That is why, when the Connecticut legislature created PURA’s predecessor in 1911, it explicitly barred PURA from interfering in contracts between public utilities companies and their employees. The law remains in effect today, and is supposed to protect CWA’s collective bargaining agreement with Frontier from interference by PURA.

Despite this law, PURA has issued a series of decisions since 2021 that mandate Connecticut public utilities employers outsource telecommunications work long protected by CWA’s collective bargaining agreement to contractors.

CWA petitioned PURA in April 2024, asking it to respect state law and cease its interference in CWA’s collective bargaining agreement. In October, PURA refused, concluding that its actions were above the law and immune from the review of courts.

CWA is now asking the Connecticut Superior Court to hold PURA accountable and to prevent reliable, good-paying union positions from being replaced with exploitative contractors in violation of state and federal law.

“CWA members work day-in and day-out to expand telecommunications access and provide safe infrastructure across Connecticut. PURA’s decisions have violated state law and put the jobs of 1,400 CWA members in jeopardy,” said CWA Local 1298 President David E. Weidlich, Jr. “The men and women of Local 1298 will not allow this agency to operate with impunity and take away our jobs.”

PURA’s attempt to insulate its anti-union decision from review is a threat to democratic accountability and essential workers across the state. PURA implemented this mandate only after the General Assembly considered and rejected a similar proposal to require the use of third-party contractors in recent legislation.

 

Protection pledged to immigrant communities

Vowing to do all in their power to protect against the terror of mass deportations and family separation promised by Trump, immigrant and community groups were joined at a Capitol press conference by Attorney General William Tong and other elected officials.

“It is the policy and it is the law of the state of Connecticut to respect, honor and protect immigrants and immigrant families here in Connecticut. Full stop,” said Tong. The Trust Act passed by the General Assembly in 2019 prohibits federal immigration officials from commandering state law enforcement to cooperate. .New Haven is among Connecticut towns with policies preventing government officials from cooperation with ICE.

Immigrant and refugee communities are overcoming fear with solidarity and plans to protect families and children as best they can. In 2007 when the City of New Haven was the first municipality in the country to adopt a resident card available regardless of citizenship status, ICE retaliated with cruel raids.

Among the organizations preparing rapid response metods are the National Immigration Law Center, (NILC), Students for a Dream, and local allies including the ACLU. “If the Administration comes for immigrants in our beloved community, “I will do everything to protect,” said Kica Matos director of NILC who lives in New Haven and is raising funds to dramatically expand their team of lawyers.

Also at stake are the living conditions for youth whose deferred action (DACA) status is threateneed and whose health care (Husky for Immigrants) is covered up to the age of 15. Trump has threatened to cut funding from states that did not support him.

In a statewide zoom call the ACLU discussed how they are preparing to respond to the needs of the immigrant community as well as all those targeted including the lgbtq community and communities of color, with legal aid and know your rights resources. At a rally of 1,000 called by West Hartford Pride, fears were high for possible loss of funding for healthcare, housing and other supports.

Resistance, solidarity and a vision of equality will frame this year's People's World Amistad Awards to be held on December 14 at 4 pm tat Cooperative Arts and Humanities High School in New haven around the theme around the theme “We who believe in freedom will not rest until it's won.”

Zero tolerance for racist text messages and policies

When news came that the racist text messages being sent to young Black people across the country had shown up in Connecticut it was chilling, but no surprise. The vicious and divisive messages that Trump delivered at his campaign rallies have embolden those with racist intent.

At Hillhouse High School in New Haven the messages telling young people to report for duty “at the nearest plantation to pick cotton” were traumatic. The principal acted swiftly to make counselors available to any students in need of support.

School superintendent Dr. Madeline Negrón issued a message to parents. “I unequivocally condemn these messages and the hateful sentiments they express,” she said. “Our school district prides itself on being a safe and inclusive environment for all students, regardless of their race, background, or beliefs. These messages stand in stark contrast to our core values of respect, diversity, and unity. Hate has no place in our schools, and we must collectively work to ensure that our community reflects these principles.”

When the messages were received in Bloomfield the FBI was called in to investigate. The cell phone messages are being sent in a way that hides the identity and location of the sender.

Bloomfield officials condemned the racist text messages saying,"Racist language, behavior and rhetoric have no place in Bloomfield, and we are committed to ensuring that every member of our community feels safe, valued and respected,"

Connecticut Attorney General William Tong also spoke out saying,"I join Bloomfield leaders in condemning these disturbing racist messages. There is zero place in Connecticut for this kind of hate,"

In Connecticut, hate crimes legislation was expanded in 2021 to create a new hate crime charge of intimidation based on bigotry or bias, and the formation of the Connecticut State Police Hate Crime Task Force.

In addition to police, hate crimes can be reported to school officials or to elected officials.

It is no accident that the messages began showing up right after the election of Donold Trump, whose campaign was based on hate and division.

Hate speech can lead to physical violence and harms everyone with intimidation.

Zero tolerance for hate speech should be extended to zero tolderance for racism and bigotry in hiring practices and housing, along with support for enacting an equity agenda to correct these injustices.

Connecticut voters elect Labor Champtions

Hundreds of union members, civil rights and civil liberties activists in Connecticut traveled to, and called voters in, Pennsylvania and other presidential battleground states this election season. They warned against the target on the rights of all women, immigrants, people of color in Trump's Project 2025 agenda.

Now, post election, building on their experience, they are turning disappointment into determination to continue organizing and building unity for the needs of the multi-racial working class post election.

“The results are in. We've been around for 100 years and 19 presidents. We have a plan to fight the Trump administration,” said the ACLU.

Along with choosing Kamala Harris fir President. Connecticut voters re-elected the entire Congressional delegation including Sen. Chris Murphy.

In a tightly fought race, Rep. Jahana Hayes, 5^th CD, increased her vote. Despite record Republican campaign donations to her opponent George Logan, Hayes held her own emphasizing her commitment ot protect Social Security, Medicaid and other working class needs.

Hayes, a union member, teacher and the first Black woman elected to Congress from Connecticut, had broad support including form the Connecticut AFL CIO whose members knocked on doors in her district every weekend. She now makes history in serving her fourth term.

The sprawling district extends from New Britain to Meriden, Waterbury and Danbury. The AFL-CIO and SEIU knocked on a record number of doors with a record number of volunteers. One Meriden resident, who registgered to vote for the first time since moving to Connecticut from Purto Rico was grateful for the help.. “I voted for the women,” he declared.

Connecticut Working Families candidates won seven seats in the state legislature including Parker, Ann Rebecca Martinez in Plainville who campaigned with Hayes. In East Lyme, Working Families candidate Nick Menapace flipped a red state house seat blue.

At a large watch party at the Shubert Theater in New Haven, speaking before the presidential race had been determined, Rep. Rosa DeLauro emphasized the dangers of Project 2025 which proposed to undercut funding for all human needs and curtail the right to vote and the freedom for women to control their bodies.

Thanking all those who knocked on doors to bring out the vote, DeLauro emphasized the program she will push forward including restoration of the child tax credit, paid family and medical leave and constraints on corporate price gouging and greed.

Ed Hawthorne, president of the CT AFL CIO sent a post election message highlighting eight union members elected to office saying, “Volunteers from our unions knocked on the doors of over 50,000 members and their families, made nearly 7,000 calls to get out the vote, sent more than 14,000 text messages, and mailed over 110,000 pieces of mail. Their effort and dedication to supporting pro-union candidates made the difference in many of these races.

“Regardless of the results, labor will do what we always do: organize and fight for all working people in our state and our nation. Presidential administrations change, but the labor movement’s values do not.”

Doctors call for action to protect healthcare in Gaza

A group of doctors and faculty from Yale's School of Medicine have joined an international call to protect healthcare in Gaza. Speaking at a press conference in front of Yale New Haven Hospital they said that “As healthcare workers, it is our moral and ethical obligation to do all we can to protect our colleagues and healthcare infrastructure around the world. We are calling on leaders in healthcare nationally and globally to take an overdue public stand in defense of our colleagues and healthcare systems, and to protect children.”

Organized by the Connecticut chapters of Healthcare Workers for Palestine and Doctors Against Genocide, they said they were compelled to speak out because “the very foundation of healthcare in Gaza is being systematically dismantled. Every hospital has been bombed and the health system is in total collapse. More than 20,000 children have been murdered, hundreds of thousands have been displaced multiple times and starved.”

Citing recent reports confirming that medical missions are now banned from entering Gaza with no journalists, doctors, food, fuel or aid being allowed in, as well as conditions in which over 1,000 healthcare workers have been killed with hundrfeds more detained, the group demanded immediate action.

Echoing calls from the United Nations and international healthcare organizations and humanitarian aid agencies including Doctors Without Borders, the World Health Organization and others, the group said “We urge our healthcare leaders to follow in their footsteps and issue statements demanding:

1. Demand Israel Stop Bombing Hospitals and Attacking Healthcare and Aid Workers

2. Call for the protection of Children in Gaza and Lebanon.

3. Call for an immediate and permanent ceasefire and an end to the ongoing genocide to allow health operations to resume.

4. Support a Comprehensive and Immediate Embargo on Weapons to Israel and Divestment from Israel to Stop the Ethnic Cleansing of Civilians and Destruction of Healthcare

5. Advocate for Unrestricted Humanitarian and Medical Access to Gaza

6. Establish healthcare education and training at your institution for patient-facing staff to provide informed care to patients affected by war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide

Local organizers and speakers included emergency physician Phil Brewer, MD, pediatrician Sakena Abedin, MD, Michael Espelin, APRN, Konan Beke, MD, an Internal Medicine resident at Yale New Haven Hospital, Emily Siff, PhD, Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, and family physican Liza Goldman Huertas, MD.

Election Commentary

 

“This election is more than an election. It is a turning point that will decide what kind of country we will live in. Will we have the ability and right to protest, and to continue to demand a ceasefire? Will we have the right to teach real, uncomfortable history in our classrooms. Or will many, many more of us be blacklisted, jailed, deported, or otherwise restricted for what we believe, who we love, and if we have been to a rally for a progressive cause. Will our seniors have health care. Will labor unions be made illegal. Will public education be massively defunded. Will we live in real fascism in the United States. Will all abortion clinics be closed. This is what is on the line. We must make Kamala Harris the next president. Please help us make sure we never have to face the alternative. We have too much to face already. We must build and go forward, and not give in to politics of convenience.”

This message, posted on the first day of early voting by Lisa Bergmann, was accompanied by a comparison of where the candidates stand on issues that affect the lives of working class people, and an expose of how the MAGA/Trump Project 2025 agenda threatens all democratic rights.

Also on the first day of early voting, the CT Alliance for Retired Americans held a special phone bank to call union retirees with a message to vote early and to support pro-worker candidates including Jahana Hayes in the Fifth Congressional District and the Harris-Walz presidential ticket to preserve and expand Social Security..

Long lines in Connecticut's cities and towns on the state's first ever day of early voting underscored the high stakes of this election, and the importance of weeks of door knocking and conversations held to talk about the issues and overcome confusion..

Early voting is open from October 21 to November 3 (10 am to 6 pm) and on October 29 and October 31 (8 am to 8 pm). In most municipalities the early voting location is in town hall. Those who are not registered to vote can do so at the time and place of early voting.

A question on the ballot will further open access to voting by allowing for no-excuse absentee voting, so that any voter could request an absentee ballot, as is done in most other states.

Fascism, Environment and Democracy on the Ballot in 5th CD

We have learned some hard, environmental lessons in the Naugatuck Valley recently. Rain storms, super charged by climate change, have wreaked havoc in our Valley and surrounding towns. Housing has been lost, literally, and two lives swept away by raging surface water.

Both in January 2024, and in a bigger way in August, storms brought large volumes of water. For example, in Naugatuck the main road of Rubber Ave. was cut off by overflowing stream water in a number of places. This meant that emergency vehicles could not reach certain areas in a timely manner. 

Southwood Apartments, with hundreds of multinational, working class residents, were among those cut-off. Climate justice is very much an issue here. 

The preservation of passive open space (no hard surfaces) in the Gunntown ecosystem, just west of the Southwood complex, is a front burner issue. These lands play a crucial role in water retention. Housing, that is very much needed, must be planned for the center of town.

But the lessons were political too. 

George Logan (R), former State Senator of the 17^th District which covers much of the Valley going south, is challenging incumbent Jahana Hayes (D) for a seat in the U.S. Congress. The 5^th Congressional District covers most of Waterbury and the northwest corner of the state. 

Logan had multiple negative votes concerning environmental quality. He voted to privatize public land that had quality wildlife habitat. Privatizing public land almost always leads to less passive open space, more carbon in the atmosphere contributing to climate change, and more pollution in the air we breathe. 

These are huge issues for our health. The World Health Organization (WHO) finds that air pollution causes 7 million deaths per year.

The old labor adage, that what is won locally can be taken away in Hartford and Washington D.C., is very much in play. 

Logan, a Trump clone, has a lifetime environmental score by the Ct League of Conservation Voters (LCV) of 69%.  The national LCV lifetime score for Jahana Hayes is 98%. That latter score was the leading percentage among the Ct Congressional Delegation. Her votes on preventing climate emissions and supporting off shore wind stand out.

Fascism, the environment, and democracy are very much on the November 5^th ballot.

New Haven Educators Demand More Federal Public School Funds

 

New Haven Federation of Teachers president Leslie Blatteau told a rally outside Metropolitan Business Academy early Monday morning that it's time to spend less on wars, make the wealthy pay their share in taxes, and meet the needs of every public school student.

The spirited demonstration of educators, students, elected officials and community members, held at 7:00 am, was one of three marking the day that federal ESSER (Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief) pandemic funds ended. Other rallies were held at Fair Haven school and Brennan Rogers Magnet school.

New Haven Public Schools will be losing more than $127 million. One Metro teacher explained that among other things, the pandemic funds made it possible for the school to have a full time nurse, but without the funds the school will have to share a nurse with other schools,

State Senator Gary Winfield, telling about how important public schools are for his own children, pledged that when the next session of the State Legislature begins next year, funding will be his top priority, along with ending imposed spending restrains.

“September Surge”, rallies across the country including one in Hartford, called for swift passage of the "Keep Our Promise to America's Children and Teachers (PACT) Act" by the U.S. Congress. 

 

A local petition was launched urging New Haven's board of education to adopt a resolution to "Fund Our Schools." It calls for support of the federal PACT Act and would signal officials' commitment to safe, welcoming and thriving environments that meet the social and emotional needs of all students. 

 

The petition says passage would “signal that the people of our school districts widely support adequate, equitable, and sustainable funding increases to mitigate the harm caused by decades of underfunded schools.”

The almost $200 billion of relief funds to public education since the COVID-19 pandemic benefited students across the country with resources from one-on-one tutoring, to free summer schools, to additional support personnel for students with disabilities. Positive outcomes were seen academically, socially and emotionally.

The petition says that “by having school boards across the country pass resolutions supporting these efforts, we can galvanize this moment to shed light on the critical funding needs in our public schools.”

The local "September Surge" actions were organized by parents, community members, students and educators in the statewide Connecticut for All (C4A) coalition, with the New Haven Federation of Teachers spearheading the demonstrations.

Concord Hills Tenant Union Wins Temporary Housing Relocation

When tenants tragically lost their homes in a fire on August 10 at Concord Hills Apartments, 105-111 Sherbrooke Ave in Hartford, the city unfortunately relocated the families, including elders and children, to rundown mold and pest infested motel rooms with no cooking facilities. These unsafe conditions resulted in burglaries, hunger and health problems which sent two individuals to the emergency room.

 

The tenants responded to their crisis by organizing themselves into the Concord Hills Tenants Union, affiliated with the Connecticut Tenants Union, demanding their rights to decent temporary housing.

 

Forty-five days later the Tenants Union celebrated victory on the steps of City Hall after Mayor Arulampalam agreed to immediately relocate all tenants with children, disabilities, or health issues to better interim hotels, and in addition secured agreements with three management companies in Hartford to provide tenants with options for new apartments; and also secured an agreement from Greyhill Group, the owner of the Concord Hills Apartments, to return security deposits as legally required and to waive unpaid rent.

 

The victory followed two weeks of intensive actions including testimonies to the City Council, meeting with the Mayor,.circulating a community petition, sharing their stories with reporters,and mobilizing support from allied organizations. 

 

The night before, during a City Council meting, City Councilor Josh Michtom announced what the Mayor had finally agreed to. 

 

The displaced tenants had been subjected to intimidation by their management company, Greyhill Group, including threats of sending negative references to future landlords and demanding that tenants sign legal waivers in order to access their own belongings.

 

Mayor Arulampalam had initially declined to relocate the displaced tenants, as legally required by the Uniform Relocation Assistance Act (URAA). Following one protest the Mayor arranged for a “resource fair” intended to connect tenants to social workers and charitable organizations and to provide the moving assistance funds required by state law.

 

The URAA guarantees temporary housing and other rights to persons displaced by government action—including condemnation of apartments due to fire. The City of Hartford has been sued in the past over its failure to abide by the URAA on behalf of displaced tenants. 

 

The Concord Hills Tenants Union had the support of the Connecticut Tenants Union, the Connecticut Fair Housing Center, and many community organizations who participated in the protests and collected signatures on a petition demanding immediate action.

Machinists Call for Just Transition on Climate Change

For years John Harrity, retired president of the Connecticut State Council of Machinists has persistently called upon his union to discuss how climate change issues affect them Last week at the 2024 IAM Grand Lodge Convention in New York City, Harrity and Zach Cunningham of the Cornell University Climate Jobs Institute gave panel presentations that led to passage of a ground breaking resolution.

Harrity, also president emeritus of the Connecticut Roundtable on Climate and Jobs, said “You have heard some about the dangers of climate, and the incredible opportunities it can also mean in terms of organizing workers in the emerging green technologies. This fight on climate change is literally about our collective survival – but it is also about our growth and renewal as a union if we are smart enough to seize the opportunities before us.”

After considering new findings, members passed a resolution to include the concept of “Just Transition” in action on climate change. This concept asserts that workers displaced from jobs by climate change should receive supplemental income, insurance, and pension benefits. 

It aims to address and correct the inequities faced by people of color who have been systematically excluded from jobs in the energy sector. Additionally, it seeks to support their communities, which have been disproportionately impacted by the presence of highly polluting power plants. The resolution also includes language to ensure that green technology used in America is made in America by IAM members.

Reporting on the groundbreaking convention results, the union said that “This commitment to ‘Just Transition’ underscores IAM’s dedication to social justice and equality in the face of climate change.” The report from the convention emphasized, “The IAM’s proactive stance on climate change is a testament to its commitment to not only preserving the planet but also securing a prosperous future for its members. By embracing innovative solutions and advocating for sustainable industrial practices, IAM is leading by example in the labor movement’s fight against climate change. This advocacy involves not only implementing green technologies within IAM-represented industries but also influencing and encouraging key players to adopt and advocate sustainable practices.”

The IAM represents 7,000 workers in Connecticut including machinists at Pratt & Whitney aerospace, and also school bus drivers and healthcare workers. The Connecticut State Council of Machinists was the first organization to affiliate with the Connecticut Roundtable on Climate and Jobs saying. “The most important thing which we can leave our children and grandchildren is a healthy and clean planet earth, and the Roundtable provides us that opportunity. This is the real “National Emergency” of our lifetime and will be a legacy which humanity will be measured on.”

Labor Walks Support Pro-worker Candidates

Union members in Connecticut and across the country are knocking on the doors of their co-workers to talk about how the 2024 high stakes elections will affect their lives. 

In the Fifth Congressional District union members are visiting co-workers with information about Congresswoman Jahana Hayes, a union member and teacher who is top target of the MAGA Republicans in their quest to keep control of the U.S. House. Hayes is known for her perfect voting record on behalf of retirees to protect and expand Social Security and her voting record in support of public education and workers' rights.

“I always vote for women in local races,” said one union member on her porch. “They understand.” But she was still deciding about President. A block away, a middle aged man whose family is in the union, eagerly filled out a voter registration card to vote for the first time. “I have to vote for Kamala,” he said commenting on how dangerous a Trump victory would be for the well-being of his family.

The AFL-CIO and most unions have endorsed Harris and Walz, who himself is a union member and a teacher., warning about the corporate Trump Project 2025 agenda which would decimate all rights won over generations including the right to vote, the right to a union, the right to abortion, health care, education and policies which would slow climate change.

In Meriden, the teachers' union hall was filled with public and private sector workers wearing blue “It's Better In A Union” t-shirts, cheering on pro-worker candidates for State Legislature. The weekly Labor Walks provide an opportunity for union members to canvass neighborhoods and have one-on-one conversations about the importance of the elections with other union members.

At the same time hotel workers, health care workers and others are standing up for their rights in contract negotiations across the state understanding that what can be won at the negotiating table can be taken away at the ballot box.

Community organizations are also mobilizing to get out the vote emphasizing that this election will determine if the country goes back to the jim crow era or if the country will move forward for the needs of all working class people. The elections will be determined by voter turnout. There is something everyone can do.

CT Workers Strike and Organize on Labor Day

 

133 Unite Here Local 217 members at the Hyatt Regency Greenwich were among the 10,000 hotel workers in 12 states who went on strike on Labor Day weekend after prolonged negotiations for living wages, pensions and healthcare.

Holding signs that said “Make Them Pay,” the striking housekeepers, cooks, servers, bartenders and bellmen were joined by a bus load of Unite Here members from Yale. “America thanks you,” said Sen. Richard Blumenthal. “You are striking for all workers.”

Each car that entered or exited was handed a flier urging patrons “do not meet, eat, or sleep at this hotel while workers are on strike.”

“I’m on strike because I need more wages, I need the health insurance, and I need less rooms because I work so hard and I come home exhausted at the end of the day but I still don’t make enough money to pay my bills,” said Rebeca Laroque, a room attendant for 12 years. “Going on strike is a huge sacrifice but I need a better life for me and my two kids.” 

The US hotel industry made over $100 billion in gross profit in 2022, and hotel executives at Hilton, Hyatt, and Marriott made $596 million in total between 2020 and 2023.  Meanwhile, U.S. hotel staffing per occupied room was down 13% as many hotels nationwide have kept COVID-era service cuts in place,.

“Hotel workers are fighting for their economic lives,” said Josh Stanley, Secretary Treasurer Local 217 UNITE HERE. “The hotel industry is making massive profits, but wages just aren’t enough to support our families.” 

Two days earlier, several hundred union members gathered in Meriden at the Connecticut AFL-CIO Labor Breakfast to kick off their outreach to union members for the elections. Congresswoman Jahana Hayes told the workers she is fighting every day to hold the benefits won by the working class. “Raising wages, affordable housing and health care contribute to the economy,” said Hayes who has been targeted by the national Republican party in the Fifth Congressional District. “We are not going back,” she exclaimed to a standing ovation.

Also on the Labor Day weekend was a celebration of a new book about the People Before Profits campaigns of Joelle Fishman from 1974 to 1982 on the Communist Party ticket. The campaigns are credited with creating a more pro-worker political climate in the Third Congressional District. Participants at the book launch were urged to volunteer to get out a landslide vote for democracy over fascism in November's elections.

Hotel Workers Ready to Strike for Respect

 

Workers at the Omni Hotel in New Haven and the Hyatt Regency in Greenwich have overwhelmingly authorized strikes.. The members of Local 217 Unite Here, including housekeepers, front desk agents, cooks, dishwashers, servers, bartenders and bellmen, say after months of unsuccessful negotiations they’re tired of waiting for raises, better workloads, and protections.

At the Omni New Haven Hotel at Yale all 93 workers voting, out of 120, authorized a strike. Their contract expired on March 31. A state-wide rally on August 18 will show solidarity as Yale students arrive for the new semester and parents who accompany them stay at the Omni.

“I’m voting yes to authorize a strike, because I work too hard to be disrespected by the Omni,” said Carla Vallati a room attendant. “This is the next four years of my life on the line. While our hotel has posted record profits, workers like me are making less and less in the face of inflation. It’s time for the Omni to share the profits and settle a fair contract that respects our work.”

Hyatt Regency workers gave management a poster with 102 workers photos and personal statements authorizing a strike before they took their vote. Their contract expires on August 31.

“I work so hard and don’t make enough to pay my bills on time,” said Rebeca Laroque, a room attendant at the Hyatt for 12 years, “I come home and don’t have the energy to play with my son. My oldest doesn’t have health care so I want to win the insurance to cover both of my kids. I’m ready to fight for my family!”

“The overwhelming strike votes demonstrate hotel workers’ strong resolve to get the respect they deserve,” said Josh Stanley, Secretary Treasurer of Local 217 Unite Here.

Workers across the nation are calling for the hotel industry to “Respect Our Work” and “Respect Our Guests” by raising wages, reversing staffing cuts that have led to painful working conditions, and protecting work.

The U.S. Hotel industry’s gross operating profit was 26.63% higher in 2022 than 2019. Many hotels have kept COVID-era service cuts in place, including understaffing, ending automatic daily housekeeping, removing food and beverage options.

The contracts of over 40,000 hotel workers are up for renegotiation this year in more than 20 cities. Last year, Unite Here members won record contracts after rolling strikes at Los Angeles hotels.

Retirees Demand Housing Rights

 

There was standing room only at the VFW in Niantic as Trena from Stand-Up New London and Beth from the Center for Housing Equity & Opportunity spoke. Invited by a community of white-haired retirees, the speakers were teaching the elders their civil and political rights because a mega landlord has come to their small town and is upending the community.

The seniors are mobilizing because Alpha Capital Fund bought their complex, cut services, and is raising rent by over 90%. The mostly female occupants of the 60-unit complex are not alone. A multi-generational, multi-racial coalition, from Alpha’s other buildings are standing in solidarity with Niantic’s seniors.

The community discussed a disgusting and discriminatory public statement in which Alpha brazenly said they don't want seniors on fixed incomes living in “their” building, that retired workers aren't their preferred demographic.

Others shared that Alpha's building isn't handicapped accessible, causing wheelchair users to have to wait in the rain until a neighbor comes by to open the door. A child explained that Alpha makes her mother use an app to pay their rent online, even though they don't have computers. Everyone in the room agreed that action was necessary to protect the community.

On August 7, the East Lyme Board of Selectmen will be holding a public hearing on the establishment of a Fair Rent Commission. In response to a demand from the audience that the town “do more doing and less talking,” an elected official explained that the ordinance-drafting and approval process could take several months.

In response, the coalition collectively read the Fair Rent Commission statute and pointed out that the town could immediately join an already-existing Commission in a neighboring town without delay!

Several members explained that Commissions give communities the power to democratically challenge a landlord's demand for money. Several speakers from neighboring communities explained that Commissions in Groton, New London, Clinton, and Willimantic require landlords to open their books, explain their profit rates, and justify their greed.

Beth ended the meeting with a call to action: “We need to value each other over the almighty dollar.” The collective will be at the August 7 hearing at 7:00 pm at the East Lyme Town Hall to demand their government safeguard their human rights.

Edie Bartman Fishman Presente!

 

Activists, union and community leaders, elected officials, neighbors, and friends gathered in Wooster Square Park on a beautiful July 21 afternoon to honor the legacy and life of Edie Fishman, who passed away at 102.

Her lifelong commitment to equality, peace, and social justice was evident in the exhibits of her artwork and numerous lifetime photographs, enjoyed by attendees as they listened to Edie’s favorite working class songs. Her daughter Joelle Fishman, chair of the Connecticut Communist Party, spoke about Edie’s love of life, people, and the struggle for a better world.

Edie’s journey began when she joined the Young Communist League at 14 in Philadelphia and worked as a “Rosie the Riveter” in the shipyard during WWII. She later became a high school art teacher in New Jersey, moving to New Haven in 1995.

New Haven’s mayor Justin Elicker expressed admiration for Edie’s contributions, presenting a plaque. A proclamation from the Board of Alders was presented by Ellen Cupo.. State Senator Gary Winfield and John Olsen, president emeritus of the Connecticut AFL-CIO appreciated Edie's consistent presence at strikes and rallies for social justice.

Clifton Graves Jr., professor of African American history at Gateway Community College said he met Edie at age 95 when she took his class, shared her experiences in the freedom struggle and served as an example with her punctuality. Friends from the Connecticut Alliance for Retired Americans spoke of Edie’s quiet yet impactful way of relating to people which rallied everyone to the cause.

Edie’s solidarity with workers at Yale University and elsewhere was highlighted by UNITE HERE Local 34 leaders Ken Suzuki and Barbara Vereen. Vereen recalled how Edie and a friend drove to each picket line during the Stop and Shop strike to play “Solidarity Forever” for the strikers from the car.

Lisa Bergmann and Jahmal Henderson, next generation leaders of the Connecticut Communist Party USA, delivered a statement from the national Communist Party highlighting Edie’s unwavering decades-long commitment also recognizing deceased husband George and son-in-law Art Perlo. Lisa and Jahmal led the crowd in singing “Solidarity Forever” and asked everyone to sign “Stop the Hate and Division” voter pledge cards.

During the open mic, Edie’s caretakers fondly recalled their conversations and well-spent time with her.  A heartfelt poem by Baub Rah Bidon, paid tribute to Edie’s enduring legacy. Her spirit seemed to infuse every person present and every corner of Wooster Square Park. Her life, brimming with love and joy, continues to be the foundation upon which we stand, both today and forever.

Unity needed to stop white supremacist hate crimes

 

On Monday, July 15, State Senator Gary Winfield and his family woke up to find a white supremacist pamphlet pasted on the outside of their home in New Haven's Newhall neighborhood. The hate crime is being investigated.

Winfield is the leading force in the legislature tackling police misconduct, economic inequality, education funding and all issues facing African American communities and all working class people..

In big, bold letters the flier says “Stop White Replacement.” Issued by a group calling itself White Lives Matter it says, “We must secure the existence of our people and a future for white children.”

This is a throwback to the slaveocracy and the jimcrow segregation system that followed.

The question before our country in the 2024 elections is stark: will we choose a Third Reconstruction founded on equity and raising up everyone, or will be be destroyed by a Second Confederacy?

The dangerous white supremacist agenda of MAGA Republicans is meant to create divisions so that policies can be carried out to dismantle all people serving programs and basic rights. Elimination of SNAP and Social Security will devastate the lives of white and Latino as well as African American families. This agenda only benefits the quest of billionaire corporate executives and military production corporations for total control of our economy and our lives.

As a community we must unequivocally speak up because an injury to one is an injury to all. Every individual and organization has a role to play.

The Connecticut People's World has initiated a voter pledge card to engage community-wide participation. It says: “White supremacy and bigotry have no place in our community and country. An attack on one of us is an attack on all of us. The best way to honor the people who sacrificed their lives for our rights is to VOTE VOTE VOTE.”

The Stop the Hate and Division voter pledge card says, “It's time to stop all the attacks on working people, the poor, immigrants, people of color, women, LGBTQ and youth! As Trump and his rich friends get richer and the rest of us pay more for everything NOW is the time to organize, register voters and make the change to put People, Peace and Planet before Profits.”

CT AFL CIO Advances Racial and Economic Justice

 

Racial and economic justice was a major theme at the Connecticut AFL CIO political convention which focused on the 2024 elections.

Welcoming the delegates at the Omni Hotel in New Haven, Secretary Treasurer Shellye Davis stressed the importance of mobilizing members and community partners for social and economic justice, as well as supporting candidates who advocate for workers rights in the 2024 elections.

The convention hall was attentive during a panel with Rev Scott Marks, director of New Haven Rising and national writer/activist Bill Fletcher Jr. discussing the “Role of Labor in Fighting for Racial and Economic Justice,” moderated by Stuart Beckford , a leader of the Hartford Federation of Teachers.

Each shared the impact of racial discrimination on their lives. Marks' parents moved to New Haven during the Great Migration seeking a better life, but his father had to work three jobs to make ends meet leaving little chance for family life.

Asked by a delegate, “What should labor do now?” Fletcher immediately replied “Get over the fear of talking about race. The system is rigged. Say that.”

“There is looming fascism in the US. We need demands.” added Fletcher offering a

bigger context. Decrying unequal public education, he called for an amendment to the state constitution to change regressive taxes as the way education is funded.

“Talk with people on the verge of being pushed out,” advised Marks calling on the delegates assembled to prioritize “training and organizing.”

Over box lunches Fletcher led a workshop “Can Collective Bargaining be an Instrument in Opposing Racial Injustice?” He challenged those present to think creatively of what kind of contract provisions could overcome such racial inequities as wage differentials, work assignments and hair styling.

The convention passed Resolution 3 “Racial Justice and the Role of the CT AFL CIO: An Injury to One is an Injury to All.” reaffirming commitment to “speak out against any and all forms of racial and social injustice that impact Connecticut's working class,” and supporting the work of the Racial and Economic Justice Committee.

“Racism is designed to separate people so they can't take on the boss.” said one delegate from the floor. “We can't shy away. We have to stand together,” said another. A delegate from AFSCME summed it up, “This is the ultimate solidarity, it is very important.”

UNITE HERE Convention Celebrates New Haven's Union Victories

 

On June 20th, New Haven union members and community supporters attended the UNITE HERE convention in New York City, which brought in delegates and guests from all over the US and Canada. It was themed “It’s Up to Us - Nuestros,” highlighting US labor’s unique role in advancing our rights and defending them from the far right

Upon arrival, the delegates and guests from Connecticut were tasked with triumphantly flooding the stage to welcome incoming UNITE HERE President Gwen Mills. Mills, a native of New Haven who has since brought her organizing skills to the national level, was greeted by hugs from her New Haven friends and allies.  In 2011 as the Political Director for UNITE HERE in New Haven, Gwen Mills led the effort by New Haven Rising to run union members to win a supermajority on the Board of Alders.

Mills' speech was centered on the importance of generosity in coalition building. She committed to doubling spending on organizing, as well as redoubling efforts to fight MAGA fascism by sending volunteers to knock on doors in key battleground states

In addition to sharing their own accomplishments, the Connecticut group was inspired by the victories of the labor movement across the country. Delegates from Los Angeles celebrated the victories they won for hotel workers across the city as the result of months of striking, including a $35 per hour for hotel room attendants, daily room cleanings, and the Juneteenth holiday.

Los Angeles State Senator María Elena Durazo attended the convention as a former leader of UNITE HERE. She spoke about how the union is increasing the breadth of its struggles, fighting for language justice for workers who often do not speak English well, and bringing forth women leaders.

In Chicago and Philadelphia, union workers highlighted their fight for fair treatment at work as well as at home. UNITE HERE has not only fought for increases in wages, but also funds for union members threatened with eviction. In Hawaii, workers resisted the rising costs of living threatening to push them out of their communities.

As the Connecticut group’s bus departed, New Haven Rising Director Rev. Scott Marks delivered a call to action to bring the spirit of the convention back to New Haven. He thanked all of the coalition members, who returned to New Haven ready to keep fighting.

Rep. Jahana Hayes Wins Support of Union Retirees

Rep. Jahana Hayes (CD-5) had to wipe away her tears at the Connecticut Alliance for Retired Americans convention, after accepting the Charlene Block award and receiving the national and state organization's endorsement for her 100 percent voting record. The tears came, she explained, because everything she does is to make her grandmother proud.

Hayes won the hearts of the union retirees in the packed room at AFSCME Council 4 in New Britain when she told her story of being raised with her brother by her grandmother in Waterbury. She remembered the anxiety on the third of each month looking for the Social Security check in the mail in order to pay the bills.

“I know what it means to worry about how to cover the rent or mortgage and put food on the table. I understand how policy affects people,” she said warning, “All the Republican proposals cut Social Security and Medicare.”

“We're not asking for anything we didn't earn,” said Hayes to applause, “these are not entitlements.”

An ARA Report card presented by national director Rich Fiesta, emphasized Security, Medicare, Medicaid, Healthcare, Pensions and other issues on the Republican chopping block.

When one delegate asked about Medicare Advantage, which allows pharmacies and insurance companies to override doctors, Hayes immediately responded to loud applause, “I am against privatization of Medicare, because it was never set up for profit.”

Describing the Fifth Congressional District, often a battleground, Hayes said the 41 towns include more elite boarding schools than any district in the nation, and also include four of the top ten failing school districts in the country. “I am committed to close these gaps,” Hates said. “Every family should know that their child is getting a good education, and be able to afford to live in the counties where they work.”

“My grandmother impressed upon me the wisdom of our elders. I want to make sure to create a world where people can retire with dignity,” she said adding that if the cap on Social Security taxes for top earners were lifted there would be financial security into the future.

The union retirees left enthusiastic to get a big voter turnout from their members to protect all that is at stake and support the work of Rep Jahana Hayes and others like her.

Hartford Courant Reporters Win First Union Contract; People's World Celebrates 100 years

 

After five years of negotiations, reporters at the Hartford Courant and seven other Tribune publications have ratified an historic first union contract with hedge fund owner Alden Global Capital.

Following years of a dwindling newsroom and devastating cuts, newsroom employees voted in February 2019 to join together and form a union.

“When we created The Hartford Courant Guild over five years ago, it was in part to help ensure that the oldest continuously published newspaper in the United States continues to function,” said Christopher Keating, co-chair of the 21 member unit.

The joint bargaining committee, involving 62 NewsGuild members, secured a two-year contract that guarantees raises, a grievance and arbitration process, social media protections, maintaining the 401(k) match, and increased job security.

“Our first union contract at The Hartford Courant is historic,” said Lori Riley, the unit co-chair. “It’s a testament to our determination and grit to foster a workplace that values transparency, fairness, and the pursuit of truth above all else.”

The Hartford Courant and other Tribune publications were sold to the hedge fund Alden Global Capital in 2021.

A Centennial of Working Class Journalism

In contrast, as mainstream media continues to consolidate in the hands of hedge fund managers, the pioneer grassroots People's World is expanding in readership and coverage as it celebrates its 100^th year of working class journalism. Since 1924 the paper, originally named the Daily Worker, has never missed an issue.

“The first front page of the Daily Worker said ‘Big business interests, merchant princes, landlords, and profiteers should fear us,” recalled editor-in-chief John Wojcik.

“We always stand on the side of the struggle of the working class,” said Wojcik, a former meat cutter and UFCW shop steward. “That’s one thing that does not change.”

“One of the strongest weapons the ruling class possesses is its control of the press,” added managing editor C.J. Atkins. “A hundred years ago, a group of radical workers and Marxist writers decided to break that monopoly” and start a paper “based on a truth that could not be found in any of the newspapers at that time.”

It became a tool for the working class, providing “an alternative to capitalism” and campaigning for workers and their causes, organizing against fascism and war, and defending democracy over the decades as it does today.

As Lamont Vetoes Aid to Striking Workers, Union Vow to Organize

 When workers vote to go on strike, it is their last resort against an employer who refuses to bargain in good faith with the union for wages, benefits and respect.

This year the Connecticut AFL-CIO made it a priority to include striking workers in unemployment compensation benefits. They were taking a lead from New Jersey and New York who already allow striking workers to receive unemployment insurance, thereby leveling the playing field for the courageous workers standing up for their rights and livelihood..

HB 5431, which would set up a special $3 million fund that workers could draw upon to help pay basic necessities if they are forced on strike, passed the legislature this session but Governor Ned Lamont vowed to veto it.

Last week that's exactly what he did – deny emergency assistance to help workers forced on strike pay their bills. It is up to the Legislature to pass that bill again in the next session.

The veto is especially disgraceful in light of the growing inequality since the pandemic which saw the profits of large corporations explode while poverty for the majority has risen.

“Gov. Lamont has failed to hear the voices of thousands of working people who urged him to stand with striking workers,” said Ed Hawthorne, president of the Connecticut AFL CIO . “The Governor had a choice – stand with corporate CEOs or stand with working people. Unfortunately, he chose corporate CEOs.”

Hawthorne went on to say, “This legislation would have given countless private sector workers a fair shot to negotiate a living wage and affordable benefits,” pointing out that nine other states are considering similar legislation.

Connecticut State Council of Machinists president Patrick Buzzee said their 10,000 active and retired members “are very disappointed that Gov. Lamont vetoed this Legislation after being pressured by corporate executives.”

“Just like they do at the bargaining table, corporations made threats and leveraged their resources to try to get their way. As a union who has seen this playbook before, we know how to stand up for working people facing off with a multi-billion-dollar company,” said Buzzee, adding,“This isn’t the end, though. Our members worked tirelessly to get this legislation passed and we will continue to fight for our members and all working people across Connecticut.”

Tenants take on Landlord Lobby by Organizing a Union

 

Connecticut's housing crisis is driving homelessness and demands immediate action. Yet legislation that could have made a difference did not get voted on during this session of the State Legislature. As tenants strategize they are continuing to organize and build more power to counter the influential landlord lobby and win housing stability.

The campaign to expand just cause eviction protections to all renters took hold at the grass roots with hundreds of letters and testimonies, rallies and events. These protections, already law for individuals with disabilities and those over 65, would prevent no-cause evictions at the end of a lease.

Megalandlords, especially since the pandemic, have been buying properties, evicting long term tenants, and raising the rents for new tenants in cities across the state.

Connecticut ranks tenth in the country for least affordable housing. Four of the state's five largest cities are on the list of top 100 metro areas with the highest eviction rates. At least 68% of Connecticut renters spend more than half of their monthly income on rent.

“I think it became very clear to us not only this session but last session that the default orientation of many and perhaps most in the legislature is towards the interests of the few who own the property,” tenants union leader Luke Melonakos-Harrison told the media. “For the many who don’t own property but are just trying to have a stable place to live, it’s an incredibly uphill battle to get those concerns heard.”

This year landlords,claiming their rights are being taken away, formed a super PAC, Property Owners Defense League, that does not have to disclose funding sources. They are raising money to run candidates in this November's elections for the legislature.

In response tenants are joining together in collective action with the Connecticut Tenants Union.

“The very same week that our legislators failed to act on Just Cause, three more tenant unions brought their megalandlord to the bargaining table to negotiate for repairs, stable rents, and secure tenure,” they said.

“We never expected our fight for tenant power, justice, and freedom to rise or fall at the Capitol. We know our liberation will come from us: building power, strength, and unity through collective action, through tenant unions that fight and win, through a mass movement of working class people fighting for ourselves and our future “ the tenant union concluded.

Students, Community Groups and Veterans Walk in Solidarity with Gaza

 

Connecticut students, religious and community groups, and veterans are all walking for peace this Memorial Day week raising the cry for an end to the war and genocide in Gaza.

Scores of Yale University students waked out of their graduation ceremonies in solidarity with students in Gaza where schools have been reduced to rubble. Following on their encampments, the students called on Yale to divest its $40 billion endowment from military production complicit in Israel's assault.

Three days later a statewide coalition launched a three day Walk for Gaza. Participants joined a global movement to walk the length of Gaza in solidarity with those suffering from the ongoing violence. They demanded an immediate permanent ceasefire and end to unconditional US military aid to Israel.

The 25 mile walk included eight miles in New Haven, eight miles in Bridgeport and nine miles on the shoreline, stopping at Congressional offices and health care facilities. During the walk they raised funds for the United National Relief and Works Agency UNRAWA) the main source of humanitarian aid that the US abandoned this year.

On Thursday they met up with Veterans for Peace at a dinner at the First Congregational Church of Old Lyme. The veterans are walking through Connecticut on their way from Maine to Washington DC calling for a stop to endless wars.

The 700 mile peace walk passes through Connecticut in May, culminating with participation in Norwalk's annual Memorial Day Parade.

“No need to worry, they come in peace!” says their press release. “We just didn't want you to be surprised if you are driving this month and see a group of veterans carrying peace signs walking through your neighborhood.”

The walk will reach the nation's Capitol on July 4, Independence Day. “What these veterans want is independence from the dark prison of war and militarism so that our nation can focus its attention, energy, resources and creativity on addressing the real threats of nuclear war, climate collapse and future pandemics,” said the release, adding “the only way to address these global threats is collaboratively, through global cooperation.”

The Veterans for Peace route is from Plainfield to Branford arriving in New Haven on May 28 and then continuing to Norwalk on May 31. Daily evening events are open to the public. Information is available at https://peacewalk2024.org/get-involved/.