"There's a direct relationship between the ballot box and the bread box, and what the union fights for and wins at the bargaining table can be taken away in the legislative halls" - Walter Reuther.
As union members, we should all take heed from the words of Walter Reuther. This is the biggest reason why we work so hard during the "campaign season" to help labor friendly candidates become elected to office. After the election season is over, the hard work is just beginning. Once session begins, we have to ensure labor friendly bills pass and not so friendly bills are stopped.
As with bargaining, lobbying is sometimes more effective with numbers. This is why our Virginia State AFL-CIO holds "Labor Lobby Day" every year. On January 29, 2024 union members from across the state came to Richmond to advocate for labor. The Western Virginia Area Labor Federation was there in full force.
Here are some of our highlights:
