United Steelworkers: District 2 News

USW Files Unfair Labor Practice Charge against Kalkaska County Road Commission

Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The United Steelworkers (USW) today said that the union has filed an unfair labor practice charge against the Kalkaska County Road Commission with the Michigan Employment Relations Commission (MERC) for unlawfully implementing changes to the wages and benefits of employees without the union’s agreement.

The USW said that Local 8287 is willing to negotiate a fair contract that provides the road commission the financial flexibility it needs to address its liabilities but that the union’s attempts to reach a mutually agreeable compromise have been rebuffed without explanation ... more

USW Paper Workers Ratify New Agreement with KPS to Ensure Their Mills' Future

Fri, 03 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

United Steelworkers (USW) members at Wausau Paper’s Rhinelander, Wis., and Mosinee, Wis., mills and the Thilmany mill in Kaukauna, Wis., today ratified a new collective bargaining agreement with KPS Capital Partners in anticipation of the private equity firm successfully creating the largest specialty paper company in North America.

“We are proud of the leadership that our local unions have shown in bringing their respective memberships together to ratify this important deal in the specialty paper sector,” said USW President Leo W. Gerard. “This particular piece of the industry still has enormous growth potential and has long been in need of a new strategic vision to capitalize on that opportunity.”

USW local 2-00015 and local 01778 represent the workers at the Rhinelander mill. USW local 2-00221 and local 2-00316 represent workers at the Mosinee mill. USW local 2-00020 represents workers at the Kaukauna, Wis., mill. This agreement represents a new beginning for about 1,400 paper workers at these three mills.

“The overwhelming vote makes a powerful statement about how our members are committed to ensuring the long-term viability of these plants,” said USW International Vice President Jon Geenen, who heads the union’s paper sector ... more

Steelworkers Disgusted by Caterpillar CEO's Shameful 2012 Cash Grab

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The United Steelworkers (USW) today denounced Caterpillar Inc. CEO Douglas Oberhelman’s 32 percent compensation increase from $16.9 million in 2011 to $22.4 million in 2012 as shameful and unwarranted.

USW District 2 Director Michael Bolton said that rewarding Oberholman’s job performance by boosting his already lavish compensation by nearly one-third in 2012, despite lower than expected earnings, sends a dangerous message to other CEOs that lining their pockets at the expense of their workers is somehow acceptable.

“In 2012, Caterpillar Inc. put 700 people out of work by shutting down its Electro-Motive Diesel plant in London, Ont. after locking out its workers when they rejected a 50 percent wage cut; then the company bullied almost 800 workers into major wage and benefit concessions after a three-month labor dispute in Joliet, Ill.,” Bolton said ... more

USW Praises Addition of Paper Mills to KPS Capital Partners LP's Specialty Paper Project

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The United Steelworkers (USW) says the addition of Packaging Dynamics’s Thilmany mill in Kaukauna, Wis., and Nicolet mill in DePere, Wis., to KPS Capital Partners LP’s specialty paper project will bring investment and focus to mills and markets in the paper industry that still have untapped growth potential.

This new project will bolster the long-term future of mills in a sector where investment and focus on growth have for too long lagged behind the rest of the sectors of the industry where growth opportunities still exist.

The USW has often noted that there has been a lack of investment and focus in the specialty and technical paper markets and that has led to unnecessary job and market loss to cheap foreign imports.

USW International Vice President Jon Geenen, head of the USW’s paper sector, said: “This project comes in the nick of time. Our union tracks market and trade data and has become increasingly concerned about this sector of the industry suffering the same fate as other markets that did too little too late to bolster their ability to be innovative and competitive in increasingly difficult market conditions ... more

April Edition of the District 2 NEWS

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Please click here to download your April edition of the District 2 NEWS!

To submit an article or picture in future editions, please check the deadline date at the bottom left hand corner of the issue. If you know a member that does not receive our newsletter but would like to be included, please have them send us their name, address, phone number, local union number and, of course, their email address; and we will gladly update our distribution list for the next electronic mailing. This contact information can be sent to Art Kroll, Editor “District 2 NEWS” at d2@usw.org

Michael Bolton, Director
United Steelworkers, District 2

USW Study Warns Public about Dangers of Hydrofluoric Acid Use in Refinery Alkylation Process to Produce Clean-Burning Gasoline

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

More than 26 million are at risk of a Hydrofluoric Acid Release

A United Steelworkers (USW) study released today—“A Risk Too Great, Hydrofluoric Acid in U.S. Refineries”—warns that refiners that use hydrofluoric acid (HF) in their alkylation process to make clean-burning gasoline do not have adequate safety systems in place and are not prepared to handle a release.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulate HF as a highly toxic chemical. Exposure to HF can cause deep severe burns and damage the eyes, skin, nose, throat and respiratory system. The fluoride ion enters the body through a burn or by the lungs and can cause internal damage throughout the body. At high enough exposures, HF can kill.

If released into the atmosphere, HF rapidly forms a dense vapor cloud that hovers near land and can travel long distances. HF releases from U.S. refineries range from three to 25 miles, depending on the amount stored. More than 26 million people live within this range, many in urban areas such as Philadelphia, Memphis, Salt Lake City and Houston that are impossible to evacuate quickly should there be a major HF release. No other chemical process puts as many people at risk ... more

USW Eager to Work with KPS to Build Specialty Paper Company

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The United Steelworkers Union (USW) greeted today’s announcement from Wausau Paper about the potential purchase of Wausau’s Mosinee and Rhinelander mills and other non-disclosed assets with interest and cautious optimism.

Wausau signed a non-binding Letter of Intent to sell its specialty paper business to a new company that will be formed and controlled by investment funds sponsored by KPS Capital Partners L.P. KPS also signed a non-binding Letter of Intent to acquire a second company to establish a new specialty paper business.

This new company will acquire the assets of Wausau’s Rhinelander and Mosinee mills provided it acquires the second company. USW Locals 01778 and 2-15 represent workers at the Rhinelander mill. USW Locals 2-221 and 2-316 represent workers at the Mosinee mill.

The transaction requires that the USW ratify new collective bargaining agreements with the new company ... more

USW backs Lon Johnson for Chairman of Michigan Democratic Party

Mon, 11 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0600

CONTACT: Michael Bolton: (920) 772-7630, mbolton@usw.org

PITTSBURGH (Feb. 11, 2013) – The United Steelworkers (USW) today endorsed Lon Johnson to replace Mark Brewer as Michigan Democratic Party Chairman. Democrats will elect a chairman on February 23 at the 2013 party convention in Detroit.

“Working families have been under fire for far too long in this country, and many of the battles we’ve faced have been in our state capitols,” said USW International President Leo W. Gerard. “That’s why it is so important to make sure we have dynamic leaders who will fight on behalf of workers in states like Michigan. Lon Johnson is that kind of leader.”

Johnson, a 2012 candidate for the Michigan House of Representatives, has been active in Michigan politics for 20 years. The son of a steelworker, Johnson received more than 47 percent of the vote in November while running against an incumbent Republican in a conservative district.

“The challenges Michigan faces require a bold new direction, and Lon Johnson is the best candidate to take us there,” said USW District 2 Director Michael Bolton. “From grassroots activism to fundraising to technology to engaging new voters, Lon has the talent and the vision to lead the Democratic Party to a stronger and more vibrant future.”

In a letter to Michigan Democrats last week, the entire Michigan Democratic Congressional delegation also supported Johnson’s candidacy.

The USW represents about 850,000 workers in the United States, Canada and the Caribbean in a wide variety of industries, ranging from glassmaking to mining, steel, oil, paper, tire and rubber to the public sector, service and health care industries.

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Video: Comprehensive immigration reform might be shot in the arm organized labor needs

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0600

What would immigration reform mean for the labor movement? Ed Schultz asks Leo Gerard of the United Steelworkers if labor will help push immigration reform across the line. (The Ed Show)

Visit NBCNews.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Women of Steel: Honoring Our Past - Protecting Our Future"

Wed, 12 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0600

United Steelworkers International Women’s Conference

As our Union continues in its proud tradition of leading the way on major issues affecting workers around the world and in the countries where our members live and work, International President Leo W. Gerard announced the next USW International Women’s Conference, “Women of Steel: Honoring Our Past - Protecting Our Future.” This Conference will focus on skills enhancement, global solidarity and strengthening the labor movement, all of which contribute to your local union’s capacity to better serve the membership, influence politics and legislation, and strengthen the labor movement as a whole.

The 2013 USW International Women’s Conference will be held in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA at the Wyndham Grand Pittsburgh Downtown beginning at noon on Sunday, March 10 and will conclude on Wednesday, March 13.

Click Here for more information

USW Calls on Mich. Gov. Snyder to Veto Right-to-Work-for-Less

Tue, 11 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Michigan working families deserve state ballot vote for their economic future

President Leo W. Gerard of the United Steelworkers (USW) issued the following statement today in an appeal to common sense economics over politics as a Michigan lame-duck legislative session by Republicans rams through a ‘right-to-work-for-less’ bill for a promised signature by Gov. Rick Snyder.

“The USW active and retired members join other unions and allies in Michigan and across the nation to call on Gov. Snyder to support the proposal of the state’s Democratic congressional delegation. We ask the Governor to use his veto power to stop this unnecessary and divisive right-to-work bill.

“If the Governor feels this bill will move Michigan forward, he should delay the final legislative votes and allow an amendment that would put this issue before the public as a state ballot initiative. We urge Governor Snyder to delay his signing of the bill. Let the people of Michigan debate and vote on a consequential matter that will affect all working families ... more

USW Blasts Proposed Michigan Legislation that Targets Workers' Rights

Thu, 06 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0600

The United Steelworkers (USW) issued the following statements on the Michigan’s legislature’s and Republican Gov. Rick Snyder’s attempts to pass Right-To-Work (For Less) legislation:

From USW International President Leo W. Gerard:

“This move, coming only a month after the Election, is an obvious attempt by a lame-duck legislature to ram through an unpopular and unnecessary piece of garbage at the last minute. Voters sent a clear message on Nov. 6 that they want politicians to stand up for American workers and find solutions that will create good jobs and put working families ahead of corporate right-wing interests ... more

NEW VIDEO: USW Election 2012 Recap, Thank You

Wed, 05 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0600

In 2012, USW activists from across the nation led a successful boots-on-the-ground campaign to re-elect President Obama and pro-worker candidates at every level. Check out and share our video that recaps the historic effort and thanks the best activists in the world:

Give Sly the Mic

Wed, 28 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Progressive talk radio promotes middle class values. Now they need our support.

Starting November 27, we are urging people to call 92.1 The Mic (608.274.5450), sign the petition (which will send an email to the Operations Manager at Clear Channel), and Like the Give Sly the Mic Facebook page.

Give 92.1 one of these messages:

I strongly urge you to put Sly in the Morning on your airwaves as soon as possible.
I support Sly in the Morning and his sponsors because he is a life-long Wisconsinite who provides an entertaining, insightful perspective that can’t be found anywhere else.
I would become an eager 92.1 listener and supporter if you decide to add Sly to your lineup.

We need Sly on the Mic because:

Workers need a voice on the public airwaves fighting for them.
Small businesses that take good care of their employees depend on Sly's loyal fan base.
Sly and his listeners give progressives the support they need to stand up to Scott Walker.

Sly needs to be back on the air Wisconsin's only progressive radio station -- 92.1's the Mic-- are the airwaves he needs to be gracing.

To Contact 92.1 the Mic: call 608.274.5450 or email: timscott@clearchannel.com

To Give Sly the Mic Support: Go to www.giveslythemic.com on the web, or https://www.facebook.com/GiveSlyTheMic on Facebook

USW Election Day Outcome Statement

Wed, 07 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0600

President Obama Re-elected; Democrats, Independents Win Seats
USW trains 7,000 activists who distribute two-million worksite flyers for votes

Pittsburgh (Nov. 7) – Leo W. Gerard, president of the United Steelworkers (USW) said today’s Election Day outcome was defined by America’s union workers in the heartland, casting their votes to move America forward to re-elect U.S. President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden.

USW President Gerard said, “Most American workers chose Obama for turning the economy around, passing the Affordable Care Act, rebuilding the auto industry, enforcing our trade laws and adding 5.5 million jobs in the last 32 months.” Gerard adds: “We have more to do, but we’re on the right track with this President.

“Going into this, I wanted to prove three things: The best man would win based on his character, not his skin color; you can’t buy an election, and I wanted to prove that they couldn’t intimidate our people at the polls. And we did it.” He states that it’s not a status quo election result for the new 113th Congress, since new Democrats were elected along with independents.

“Our union members fought Super PACs by millionaires and billionaires with boots on the ground, worker-to-worker. It’s an historic triumph for the commitment we made together with other unions and progressive allies to fight back against the corporate influence in elections and the efforts to suppress voting,” Gerard said...more

Boots on the Ground

Mon, 05 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0600

United Steelworkers are telling their stories of members and activists across the country leafleting plant gates, registering folks to vote, doing block walks and more. Come back often to see if your story is here. Thank you to United Steelworker Press Association communicators for assisting with this effort.

In Colorado Steelworkers hard at work at the Obama office in Denver. We will win COLORADO!
In Pennsylvania USW President Leo Gerard plant gating this morning at Anchor Hocking in Monaca. Started at 6am!
In Ohio Joshua Keirsey talking to a supporter in Steubenville, OH pounding the pavement.
In Kentucky Jim Key, vice president of United Steelworkers Local 550, gets last minute instructions from Kelly Whitaker, labor-endorsed Democratic candidate for the state House of Representatives, before he helps canvass Mayfield, the Graves County seat, for her.
In California United Steelworkers Jennifer, Xochitl and Brigette with Tom Torlakson, State Superintendent of Public Instruction, standing with Janice Hahn at Local 675 in Carson, CA in support on No on 32.
In Pennsylvania David Vinski sends us a photo of the GOTV phonebank at United Steelworkers headquarters in Pittsburgh.
In Kentucky From left, Steelworkers Jim Key, Jeff Wiggins and Joe Villines get last minute instructions from Kelly Whitaker, labor endorsed Democratic candidate for the state House of Representatives, before they help her canvass Mayfield, the Graves County seat. Key is vice president of USW Local 550, Wiggins is president of USW Local 9447 and Villines is USW sub-district director in District 8.
In Virginia Boots on the Ground activists, Roger McGinnis, Karen Shipley, Heather Anderson, Ronnie Watson and Assistant Director Allan sampson, getting ready to knock on doors to secure this state for President Obama.
In California A classmate of Jennifer Thomas-Drudge Leadership Scholarship class, Erik Dullbo from Sweden is supporting our cause here.
In Virginia It's cell phone city at United Steelworker Local 8888 as Women of Steel phone bank for President Barack Obama and Tim Kaine.
In Virginia Roger McGinnis block walking for President Obama and Tim Kaine in Danville, VA.
In California United Steelworker Staff Al Madrigal with officers and members of USW Local 1440 in Pittsburg, CA on the Ground.
In Arizona United Steelworker Local 3937 Women of Steel and members handed out Obama/Carmona flyers at the Alcoa plant in Chandler for just over an hour before they got kicked out of company property by human resource personnel. Click Here for more photos.
In Florida USW political activists are on the ground in Florida helping with setting up and working at plant gate leafleting, educating members at local union meetings, phone banking, block walks, local union mailings and robo calling. Click Here to view all the photos.
In Ohio USW Rally for U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown, U.S. Rep. Betty Sutton. United Steelworkers (USW) International President Leo W. Gerard is scheduled to join candidates in key races, union leaders and others in several states, where he will rally activists, prepare for massive get out the vote efforts and remind workers what’s at stake when they cast their ballots Nov. 6. Click Here to view more photos.
In Illinois USW Local 9550 members in Goshen, IN. are fighting to stop their jobs from moving to Mexico. They work for Cequent Towing Company, whose parent company TriMas Corp., based out of Bloomfield Hills, Mich., have reported third-quarter sales of $336 million, up 21% from the same quarter in 2011. A similar situation like this is happening in Freeport, Ill. where a company with ties to Mitt Romney, Sensata Technologies is moving jobs to China. Click Here to view more photos.
In Ohio On October 28, 2012, Senator Sherrod Brown attended a press event at USW Local 979 in Cleveland. The picture shows the Senator talking with Amber and Jason Miller's daughters, Peyton (on the left) and Madison. The younger Miller, Peyton, really looks like she is in a deep discussion with the Senator.
In Pennsylvania Congressman Mark Critz talking with Anaiah, daughter of Connie Mabin, at the Fall Human Rights Banquet in Hopewell, PA.
In Indiana Special thanks to our USW members of Local 1899 and 68 who helped out handing out fliers and came out to supprt David Gill for 13th congress, Mark Von Nida for circuit clerk, Tom Gibbons for states attorney, Rick Facin for Auditor, Steve Nonn for Coroner, Amy Myer for Recorder, Judy Cates for appellate court, James Clayborne state senator 57th District, Marleen Suarez for 112 state rep, Jay Hoffman 113th District.
In Texas USW District 13 Members Participating In Getting Out the Vote Activities. Click Here for more.
In Indiana Special thanks to our USW members of Local 1899 and 68 who helped out handing out fliers and came out to supprt David Gill for 13th congress, Mark Von Nida for circuit clerk, Tom Gibbons for states attorney, Rick Facin for Auditor, Steve Nonn for Coroner, Amy Myer for Recorder, Judy Cates for appellate court, James Clayborne state senator 57th District, Marleen Suarez for 112 state rep, Jay Hoffman 113th District.
In Texas Members of USW Local 13-423 of Port Arthur, Texas and others conducted a block walk to encourage people in the Port Arthur and Beaumont Texas area to get out and vote prior to the November 6th election.
In Ohio Senator Sherrod Brown with a great support team - District 1 Director Dave McCall, Asst. Director Dave Caldwell, District 1 Political Team and Staff — Donnie Blatt, Jason Miller, Amber Nichole Miller, Joe Sterling and Steven Donovan II.
In Texas SOAR members Jack Simmons, Tom Gentry, Spyder Deringer, Earl Ehlers, SOAR Executive Board member Jack Golden, Assistant to the Director Jim Lefton and Sister Estella M. Simmons from USW Local 13-1 spent Monday October 29th stuffing envelopes in preparation for a mail out to USW Local 13-1 members. Click Here for more.
In Ohio "I'm in Ohio because I wanted to go some place where I could help President Obama," Ormes said. "Our union endorsed him, and the union has always been there for me. The union has always encouraged me and brought me along." To read Chris' story, click here.
In Virginia Heather Anderson with Chris MacLarion meet former Virginia Governor and future U.S. Senator, Tim Kaine this morning. Block walking for him and President Obama.
In Pennsylvania USW International President Leo Gerard at the Fall Human Rights Banquet in Hopewell, PA promoting President Obama's middle class values.
In Virginia United Steelworker Local 8888 Women of Steel phone banking for President Barack Obama and Tim Kaine.
In Ohio Hall of Fame running back, Franco Harris joining two other legends Jim Brown and and Leo Gerard at the Steel Blitz Tour for Barack Obama Rally in Akron, Ohio
In Massachusetts The tireless political activist Dan Lawson taking a few moments out for a photo shoot with Elizabeth Warren. Starting to count the number of running shoes he has worn out in his support of Elizabeth and President Obama.
In Ohio Jason Miller from Local 7248 in District 1 at the Brown/Mandel debate rally in Cincinnati, Ohio
In Colorado Ken Debey (Alliance), David Nefzger (Colorado Alliance for Retired Americans), Rodney Crow (United Steelworkers), Maura Firth (Protect your Care), Courtney Law (Protect Your Care) getting interviews and protecting Medicare.
In Ohio Steelworkers, their families and friends paking the USW Local 2L hall at the Steel Blitz Tour for Barack Obama Rally in Akron, Ohio
In California USW District 12 Director Bob LaVenture with Staff Reps. Fernando Terrazas and Shig Noguchi doing support work for President Obama and the No prop 32 Campaign in Anaheim, CA
In Illinois USW Political Coordinator Terry Biggs from Local 1899, Bill Enyart from congress 12th district and USW Local 50 President Jason Chism at gate handout.
In California United Steelworker's Sub Director Ron Espinoza, Staff Representative Shig Noguchi and USW members with Congressional Representative Maxine Waters supporting Vote NO on Prop 32 in California.
In Oklahoma This home is in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The owner got tired of vandals destroying his Obama yard signs so he painted his roof. That is commitment.
In Illinois Gate handout with USW Local 50 President Jason Chism, State Representative 112th Marleen Suarez and Terry Biggs USW political coordinator for Local 1899.
In Colorado Women of Steel (WOS) member Renee Johnson from United Steelworker Local 2102 in Pueblo, CO. recently had the opportunity to meet the President and present him with a WOS shirt for Miche.
In California United Steelworkers Women of Steel Jennifer Drudge helped to organize the rally in Alamitos, CA to support Obama and Biden.
In Illinois Working door-to-door in my neighborhood's precinct for Dr. David Gill who is running for the Illinois 13th Congressional District. He is currently running ahead in two major polls.
In Oregon USW Local 1097 President Bill Kerr getting ready to pound the pavement in Wauna, OR.
In Arizona Steelworkers handing out Obama flyers at 6:00 am on 10-24-12 at Asarco Ray Mine, Hayden, AZ. Members included Beverly Martinez, LU 915; Monika Lopez, LU 886; Rebekah Osinski, LU 886 and Rosemary Martinez, LU 915
In Texas The son of Local 13-1 President Lee Medley coordinated a massive voter registration drive at a local university campus that registered a whopping 760 voters just in time for Texas' deadline! Let's hear it for USW members who make activism a family affair!
In Virginia Local 8888 members stood outside the shipyard early Saturday ready to greet and encourage their fellow co-workers to vote for former Gov. Tim Kaine and Rep. Bobby Scott (D-Va.) who, respectively, are running for the U.S. Senate and Virginia’s 3rd Congressional District.
In California Election Efforts Continue for USW Local 675. A voters education/cookout event, distributing packets and preparing mailings all add up. Click Here to view more photos.
In Ohio District 1 Steelworkers showing support for Ohio Senator Sherrod Brown before his debate in Cleveland!
In Virginia Virginia's political casuals drop in unexpectedly at a Romney rally and bring Big Bird to visit.
In Arizona Rosemary Martinez from USW Local 915 handing out Obama flyers at 6:00 am on 10-24-12 at Asarco Ray Mine, Hayden, AZ
In California United Steelworkers Women of Steel take to the street to rally in Alamitos, CA to support Obama and Biden.
In Ohio United Steelworker activists joined Congresswoman Kaptur at a recent press conference in Lakewood, OH. Representative Kaptur has a strong record of advancing and protecting workers rights.
In Illinois A photo of a night sign from Local 1899 member showing their support for workers and against Bain Capital outscourcing jobs in Freeport, Illinois at the Bainport event covered by the Ed Show.
In California United Steelworker Jennifer Drudge from Local 2801 will not be discouraged from showing her support for President Barack Obama in this year’s campaign no matter how many times people vandalise her signs. Photo by Ted Apodaca. Click here to read the story.
In Illinois Local 1899 member's wife Kim May shows her support for workers and against Bain Capital outscourcing jobs in Freeport, Illinois at the Bainport event covered by the Ed Show.
In Connecticut Tammy Marston, Wanda McKiver and Tammie Botelho walking in New Britain, Connecticut today for Chris Murphy and Elizabeth Estey.
In Illinois Local 1899 member and his wife show their support for workers and against Bain Capital outscourcing jobs in Freeport, Illinois at the Bainport event covered by the Ed Show.
In Ohio Leafleting at the Timkin Company plant gate in Canton OH. Recognizable is Congresswoman Betty Sutton, Richard Trumpka (back to us), LU 1123 President Joe Hoagland (in the blue jacket) and Katy Breck (Sutton's campaign with the USW pullover on).
In Nevada On October 18, United Steelworkers staff and members rallyed with union workers inside The Events Center at the Culinary Training Academy in Las Vegas to show their support for Vice President Joe Biden.
In Iowa SOAR Chapter 11-4 members phone banking USW 105 Retirees in Davenport, IA
In Massachusetts USW President Leo Gerard and US Senate Democratic Candidate Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts at October 13 block walk & campaign rally in Malden, Mass. Click Here to see other cool pics with District 4 Director Shinn and our District 4 Steelworkers.
In Connecticut District 4 Staff, Support Staff and Local Union Volunteers getting ready to do Labor to Labor walks this morning for US Senate Candidate Chris Murphy in Connecticut.
In Iowa SOAR Chapter 11-4 members taking a moment from phone banking for a photo opportunity in front of the Bain Work Bus.
In Indiana USW Local 115-A Mailing. Volunteers from USW Local 115-A stuffing local union mail for the election. Click Here for more. Photos by Kelly Ray Hugunin
In Maine USW Locals 4-365,4-291 and 4-1247 in Madawaska, Maine in front of their float promoting union values at the "Acadian Festivial Parade." Submitted by Tammy Marston.
In Indiana Steelworker volunteers phone banking at USW Local 1999. Click Here for more. Photos by Kelly Ray Hugunin
In Indiana Candidates Visit LU 1999-9 - House District 92 Candidate Karlee Macer and Senate District 35 Candidate Mark Waterfill talk with Steelworkers at the plant gate. Click Here for more. Photos by Kelly Ray Hugunin
In New York Steelworkers rallied outside WNED-TV studios in downtown Buffalo before the debate on Oct. 16 for candidate Rep. Kathy Hochul (D) in the 27th Congressional District. District 4 members included Peter DeJesus and Jim Pittman from USW Local 9436, Dave Evans from USW Local 135l and Joe Vertalino from Local 897.
In Arizona What happens in Tempe, AZ at 4:00am? District 12 Women of Steel from USW Locals 886, 915 and 5252 along with Manny Armenta Jr. and Jeremy Johnson do handbills at a plant gate for Obama.
In Ohio Steelworkers show their support in front of the Renaissance Hotel in Cleveland before Sherrod Brown's debate with Josh Mandel.
In Massachusetts Steelworkers join with brothers and sisters of other unions at the Elizabeth Warren rally in Malden, Mass. in front of Laborers Local 22.
In Ohio As candidates face off for the first of three debates for Ohio’s U.S. Senate seat, Steelworkers come out in force to support Sherrod Brown.
In North Carolina Mitt Keep your Mitts off our Healthcare. USW Local 959 member Joe Smith was rallying with brothers and sisters at the VA Medical Center in Fayetteville, NC.
In Virginia United Steelworker (USW) member Mattie Urquhart from Local 8888 in Newport News, VA, phone banking for our candidates.
In Massachusetts United Steelworker members and District 4 staff came out in support of Elizabeth Warren in Springfield, Mass. Click Here to view more pictures of the event.
In Florida James Crowder from USW Local 351L hooking up with the Painters Union as they pound the pavement at an Obama-Bidden Rally at Bartow Recreation Center in Bartow Florida.
In Pennsylvania United Steelworkers (USW) from Local 5652 in Wilkes Barre, PA were able to get 100% of our department registered to vote thanks to the USW Rapid Response program. The members try to wear Obama shirts every Tuesday to remind people to vote on Election Day.
In Minnesota Over 40 steelworkers joined District 11 Director Bob Bratulich on October 9 before the first debate between congressional candidates United Steelworker (USW) endorsed Rick Nolan and Tea Party candidate Chip Cravaack. Representative Cravaack used the back door to enter the debate.
In North Carolina United Steelworkers rallied at VA Medical Center in Fayetteville, NC, reminding people where Mitt Romney was when men and women were serving America.
In Ohio Members hand billing at Steelcraft manufacturing in Cincinnati.
In Pennsylvania Big Bird came to Pittsburgh on October 9 to visit the United Steelworkers and ask for Steelworkers to help save PBS from Mitt Romney. United Steelworkers from Local 3657 and Headquarters were available to show their support. To see more photos, click here.
In Massachusetts United Steelworkers in Lowell, Mass. rallied outside the debate hall where senatorial candidates Elizabeth Warren (D) and Scott Brown (R) were holding a debate.
In Virginia United Steelworker (USW) members from Local 8888 in Newport News, VA, leafleted and showed their support.
In Arkansas Volunteers from the United Steelworkers (USW) Local 9671 who made calls Saturday for Gene Jeffress (AR CD 4) in Pine Bluff, AR
In Colorado USW Staff Reps Jack Cavanaugh, Doug Fennell and members of LU 2102 and 3267 with Ken Salazar, Secretary of the Interior, at an event in Pueblo.

USW Joins More Than 50 Allies in 'Money Out, Voters In' Effort

Sat, 03 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The United Steelworkers (USW) union has joined allies from more than 50 other groups to fight back against the corporate influence in elections and against laws and official actions designed to suppress the vote. Under the banner “Money Out, Voters In,” the organizations issued a joint statement pledging to fight corporate money in politics and to support the rights of all voters.

“We deserve a democracy that works for every single citizen, no matter where they live, how much money they have, or what their background might be,” said USW International Vice President Fred Redmond. “Right now, we have an unequal system in which the rich can use their millions to flood the airwaves with inaccurate attack ads or, worse, to bully voters into staying home on Election Day. These efforts are a direct assault on our democracy.”

The joint statement reads:
“Within the next week, citizens in every state will come together to cast their votes for President, Congress, and other state and local offices. The right to cast those votes – to elect leaders who represent us – is at the heart of our democratic system. But this year, that right is in danger ... more

Michigan's Ballot Initiatives

Wed, 31 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Brought to you by USW Rapid Response - http://www.uswrr.org, www.facebook.com/USWRapidResponse

Michigan’s ballot will include six statewide proposals for voters to decide this election. Please read on for background and recommendations on each.

Proposal 1: “Stand Up for Democracy” – Please Oppose
Authorizes the Governor to appoint an Emergency Manager to make decisions in financially distressed communities or school districts.
What it really does: Undermines democracy by giving non-elected appointees the power to change laws and contracts passed by locally elected officials that voters have chosen.

Proposal 2: “Protect Our Jobs” – Please Support
Constitutional amendment to establish employees’ right to join unions and bargain collectively with public or private employers regarding wages, hours and other terms of employment.
What it really does: Collective bargaining levels the playing field and helps ensure good working conditions and a better quality of life for all Michiganders, whether in unions or not. Allows employees to come together with employers to negotiate a fair deal so CEOs aren’t the only ones benefitting from a company’s success.

Proposal 3: “Michigan Energy, Michigan Jobs” – Please Support
Requires utilities to obtain at least 25% of electricity from renewable sources by 2025. Limits consumer rate increases from renewables-related costs to no more than 1% per year; creates incentives to employ Michigan workers and equipment.
What it really does: Reduces our state’s dependence on foreign oil and out-of-state energy. Encourages the production of energy, like wind and solar, here in Michigan, made by Michigan workers.

Proposal 4: “Citizens for Affordable Quality Home Care” – Please Support
Establishes the Michigan Quality Home Care Council to register, background check and provide standards for home care providers.
What it really does: Ensures seniors and people with disabilities have an affordable, safe choice of living at home, rather than at more-expensive nursing homes. Saves taxpayer dollars since home care is significantly less expensive to taxpayers than nursing homes.

Proposal 5: “Michigan Alliance for Prosperity” – Please Oppose
Amends the Michigan constitution to require a 2/3 majority vote of the legislature, or a statewide vote of the people at a November election to impose new or additional taxes.
What it really does: Gives a small minority of just 13 state senators the power to stop the closure of tax loopholes or increase taxes in an emergency, even if it was supported by the other 135 members of the legislature.

Proposal 6: “The People Should Decide” – Please Oppose
Amends the Michigan constitution to require a vote of the people before the State of Michigan can construct or finance new international bridges or tunnels for motor vehicles.
What it really does: Financed by Ambassador Bridge owner Manuel Moroun, this would create more unnecessary hurdles to establishing a new Detroit-Windsor bridge. Moroun has long worked to stop the new bridge, which contains strong Buy American/Buy Canadian requirements and would be competition to his aging bridge.

No Denial: 'Son Of Detroit' Profited From Bailout - And Jobs Shipped To China

Wed, 24 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

by Joe Conason, The National Memo

“I’m a son of Detroit. I was born in Detroit. My dad was head of a car company. I like American cars,” said Mitt Romney on Monday night when he net with President Obama to discuss foreign policy. “And I would do nothing to hurt the U.S. auto industry.”

That might be considered true – unless moving the most important American auto parts manufacturer to China counts as hurting the U.S. auto industry. But those words now stand as one of Romney’s most glaring falsehoods in the final debate.

Romney’s defensive statement came in response to a remark by Obama noting that the Republican nominee is “familiar with jobs being shipped overseas because you invested in companies that were shipping jobs overseas.” Moments later, he added: “If we had taken your advice Governor Romney about our auto industry, we’d be buying cars from China instead of selling cars to China ... more

USW Notes Win by United States in WTO Case Against China's Duties on Electrical Steel; Obama Administration's Fight for American Jobs

Thu, 18 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The United Steelworkers (USW) today welcomed the decision of the World Trade Organization (WTO) to side with the United States in a major trade dispute covering China’s imposition of illegal antidumping and countervailing duties on imports of grain oriented flat-rolled electrical steel from the United States.

China had illegally imposed duties on these products without following proper procedures in its injury analysis. The WTO’s Appellate Body rejected China’s actions on all counts. President Obama took China to task in September 2010 for their actions. The President is pursuing similar corrective actions against illegal antidumping and countervailing duty actions by China on U.S. poultry exports and on $3 billion of U.S. automobile exports to China.

“The President has made clear that maintaining and creating jobs is his highest priority,” said USW International President Leo W. Gerard. “Fighting for fair trade and attacking the protectionist and predatory actions of our trading partners, especially China, has been at the top of his agenda ... more

New USW Video Exposes Mitt Romney's Economy

Wed, 10 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Bain, Romney Sell Out American Workers to China for Profits

The United Steelworkers (USW) today released a new video that exposes the truth about how Mitt Romney and Bain Capital are profiting by selling out American workers by shipping U.S. jobs to China.

In the video, posted on the union’s YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/steelworkers, workers in Freeport, Ill., share their painful story about how Bain-controlled Sensata Technologies is right now moving equipment out of the plant and sending 170 good, American jobs to China. Hundreds of USW members also have seen their plants close and jobs slashed after Bain Capital bought them.

“Mitt Romney likes to say that he knows nothing about tax breaks for off-shoring American jobs, or that he shouldn’t be held accountable for Bain Capital’s actions since he’s no longer CEO. But our video shows the truth about the kind of economy Romney wants, and it exposes the fact that he continues to own shares in Bain-controlled companies like Sensata that profit from sending these good jobs to China,” said Leo W. Gerard, USW International President ... more

Higher vehicle fuel efficiency standards will save money at the pump, create jobs

Tue, 09 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

by District 2 Director Michael Bolton

Gas prices go up, we feel the pinch on our wallets, but we’re quick to forget it as soon as they drop again. It’s that short-term memory that unfortunately has influenced our attitudes on fuel efficiency in the past.

Longer term relief is in sight, as the administration ushers in higher standards that will help drivers go further than ever before on a gallon of gas. In August, the White House announced the finalized cleaner car standards that will increase fuel efficiency to the equivalent of 54.5 mpg for cars and light-duty trucks by 2025 — the highest in a generation.

Achieving this nearly doubles the fuel efficiency of cars and pickup trucks on the road today and cuts carbon emissions per vehicle mile traveled, nearly in half. Additionally, the economy stands to benefit significantly, to the tune of 570,000 new jobs created here in the U.S., with 50,000 in parts manufacturing and vehicle assembly of light-duty vehicles alone.

It’s a historic investment that proves America’s commitment to sustainability and our auto industry is as strong as ever. Michiganders won’t forget that not so long ago, a sluggish economy threatened the automotive sector. Vehicle manufacturing facilities weren’t producing at full capacity resulting in significant job losses.

Today, the auto industry is back and better than ever, due in part to this commitment to sustainability, growth in local communities, and jobs and the economy. Improving fuel economy also better prepares us to take on our automotive and manufacturing competitors around the world.

More than just economically motivated, these higher standards are as much about responding to consumer needs as they are about creating jobs. American made, fuel efficient vehicles are winning over new consumers every day. New data shows that fuel economy of new cars sold in 2012 reached a new high in the first half of this year.

Smart standards like these are putting the U.S. auto industry and the economy back on solid ground and employing workers in good-paying jobs from Grand Rapids to Detroit, up to Alma and beyond.

Beckie Sallie is one of those workers contributing to Detroit’s cleaner car economy. At Paulstra, she works to manufacture engine transmounts for vehicles including the Dodge Dart.

There are many others like her who are proudly manufacturing fuel efficient vehicles at places like Johnson Controls in Battle Creek where employees create quality products like interior systems for automobiles; Alma Products in Alma, a company with over 60 years of history in both automotive original equipment and remanufacturing; Cadillac Products Automotive Company, an internationally recognized leader in the plastics converting industry, with a well-earned reputation for designing, developing and manufacturing creative and cost effective products and many more facilities like these.

These are the jobs that are working for Michigan and proving that environmental protections and good jobs not only can co-exist, but that they can drive the growth of good, American jobs, while keeping our air cleaner and addressing climate change.

These are standards the United Steelworkers stand behind and that are a vital investment in Michigan’s economy and the future of Michigan workers.

USW Reacts to Report on Romney's Bain Capital Investment In Brutal Chinese Sweatshop Described at Boca Raton Fundraiser

Mon, 01 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Leo W. Gerard, president of the United Steelworkers (USW) reacted today to a new global labor rights report that cites Republican Presidential Candidate Mitt Romney as having “knowingly invested in a brutal Chinese Dongguan sweatshop,” while CEO for Bain Capital through the affiliated Brookside Fund for up to $23 million between 1998-2000.

The labor rights report matched U.S. Securities and Exchange filings, plus information revealed by Romney in a 1998 meeting at the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston, and from a surreptitious video recording at a Boca Raton fundraiser released in mid-September by the Mother Jones Magazine. In the video, Romney personally described his private equity days: “We went to China to buy a factory there.”

The USW leader challenged Romney on his $23 million investment in the Dongguan sweatshop: “Can you explain to the American people what you were thinking as CEO of Bain Capital when you learned the pittance the Chinese workers earned at 24 cents an hour, the grueling hours and brutal sweatshop conditions ... more

New Video: Saving the Auto Industry and USW Jobs

Thu, 20 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Just a few years ago, USW Local 903 in Fort Wayne, Ind., was running a food bank out of its hall to feed laid off members. The economy had collapsed, the auto industry was dying, and the Dana auto parts plant that once employed over 2,000 Steelworkers was barely hanging on. Watch their inspiring story below, then share it with everyone you know. Click here to download our fact sheet and leaflets.

Stop Siemens Union-Busting

Sat, 25 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Workers in a North East, Maryland Siemens’ plant who recently signed affiliation cards with the United Steelworkers(USW) have become targets of the company’s anti-union philosophy. The company has launched a full-blown union-busting campaign rather than respect the workers’ right to choose a union.

The workers at Siemens in Maryland are fighting back. They’re seeking to organize with the United Steelworkers and are reaching out to unions around the world for support.

Click Here to show your support for Siemens workers.

Click Here to read a recent article, "USW Says that Siemens' "Sweet Talk" Doesn't Conceal Its Union-Busting Efforts."