Get Involved in Rapid Response
Together, we can make a real difference in shaping policies that prioritize workers over corporate interests.
Why Do We Need Rapid Response?
Rapid Response is the union’s nonpartisan program for education, communication, and action regarding legislative measures and regulatory policies that affect USW members, their families, their contracts, and their communities. This program empowers USW members to have a strong voice and an active part in the government decisions impacting our union’s core issues, including trade, healthcare, collective bargaining, domestic economic issues, safety and health, and retirement security.
The challenges facing USW members are more critical than ever. We must actively resist efforts to undermine collective bargaining rights, oppose trade policies that send jobs overseas, and safeguard essential middle-class programs such as Social Security and Medicare. These policies not only impact our contracts and wages, but also affect our workplaces, communities, and the broader economy.
It is essential that Steelworkers stand up against harmful policies that erode the middle-class and advocate for an economy that works for all. With Rapid Response, we gain the essential resources to understand these issues and make a meaningful impact on government decisions.
How Does Rapid Response Work?
Rapid Response offers a structured approach to keep all USW members informed about upcoming legislation and regulations that affect labor and workplace matters. Each communication through Rapid Response outlines the issue at hand and its implications for workers, their families, and their communities. When the time is right, members are asked to take action, and then, feedback is provided after the action has been completed.
INFO ALERTS:
Info Alerts keep members informed about relevant issues and legislation.
ACTION CALLS:
When the government is considering or should consider taking action on an issue that affects workers, an Action Call is issued. These will request USW members to write a note, make a phone call, or take other steps to communicate the union’s positions to elected officials.
FEEDBACK REPORTS:
After an action is completed, a Feedback Report is distributed. This report outlines the results of the action, including if the government officials supported our position.
Who Can Get Involved in Rapid Response?
Rapid Response offers all USW members a chance to have a voice in government decisions. Each Local Union should appoint a Local Union Rapid Response Coordinator to collaborate with the Local Union President in recruiting a Rapid Response Team for the Local Union. Team members are responsible for distributing Info Alerts and Feedback Reports, as well as ensuring that Action Calls are completed.
Rapid Response activities occur during working hours, making it an ideal program for Steelworkers who wish to engage with the union, but can’t commit to activities outside of work. For those Rapid Response activists interested in participating in additional activities, there are opportunities to attend rallies and events on key issues.
Rapid Response also offers an easy way for your friends and family to participate in actions. By scanning the QR code on an Action Call, friends and family can easily get involved, stay informed, and contribute to meaningful actions. It’s a quick and convenient way to rally more support and make a difference together.
