Author: Danette Dominguez
Changemakers Unveiled: Stories of Labor Pioneers
In 1915, Carter G. Woodson laid the foundation for this month of recognition, driven by the imperative to include the often-overlooked contributions of Black Americans in the American narrative. Over a century later, we are still unveiling the depth and breadth of these stories, particularly within the dynamic realm of the labor movement. This Black History Month, we pay tribute to the trailblazing Black leaders who pioneered the labor movement, shaping the landscape of employment rights for generations.
While many know the historic struggles for civil rights for Black Americans, most are unaware that many organizers and activists who championed those rights were heavily involved in the labor movement. Take Bayard Rustin who was the chief architect of The March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom in 1963. His contributions were indispensable, although he was overshadowed in history because he was a gay man. Nonetheless, the march was a resounding call for labor rights within the civil rights movement, acknowledging the inseparable link between economic and civil justice. Black leaders were always keenly aware of strength in numbers, unity, and workers’ voices.
Enter the trailblazers—Nannie Helen Burrows, A. Phillip Randolph, and Lucy Parsons. Parsons strategically organized labor strikes in the late 19th century. In 1866, she co-founded the Working Women’s Union, breaking racial barriers by later integrating her union to include white women. Nannie Helen Burroughs, a luminary in education and activism, envisioned a future where economic empowerment was synonymous with justice. Founding the National Training School for Women and Girls in 1909, she sought to equip Black women with the tools to navigate a world where their voices were heard, not silenced. A. Philip Randolph, a pioneer in the labor movement, laid the groundwork in 1925 by founding the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters—the first formally recognized Black-led labor union. His tireless efforts opened doors for greater equity in the labor landscape, emphasizing that a voice in the workplace was the catalyst for broader societal change.
At ReWork the Bay, we echo these leaders’ equitable praxis at work and recognize that giving employees a voice is not just a policy but a commitment to the legacy of those who paved the way for a fair and just society. As we honor the contributions of these American giants, we vow to continue their endeavors for a more equitable Bay Area. Join us in this journey, where every voice is heard, every story is acknowledged, and progress is a collective endeavor. Here’s to a February of celebration, education, and a renewed commitment to an inclusive future.
In Solidarity,
Brianna, Janelle, + Rob
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Embracing the Year Ahead
Welcome to 2024, a year brimming with possibilities and opportunities for positive change! 2023 saw major shifts towards collective worker power and employees advocating for their rights nationwide. As we step into this new chapter, we can’t help but feel the excitement and energy of creating our Year of Unity. A fitting title to honor our twenty years of championing equity for all in the Bay Area.
This year, we’re not just marking time but making it count. With a renewed focus on collective worker power and an unwavering commitment to our mission, we’re gearing up for impactful initiatives. Our upcoming strategy launch is set to redefine how we champion quality and empowered employment, ensuring our work aligns seamlessly with our core values. The Building Worker Power report, born from vital partnerships with workforce training programs, will spotlight their invaluable contributions to our community.
But that’s not all—enter our Funder Community of Practice, a space that embodies the spirit of participatory philanthropy. This year, we’ll explore the critical role of worker organizing and organized labor in economic justice. While we introduce new elements, our steadfast dedication to bringing statewide job quality remains unwavering.
As we embark on this exciting journey, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our supporters, advocates, and community partners who have been instrumental in our 20-year journey. Thank you for your unwavering commitment to equity, collaboration, and pursuing a Bay Area where everyone can thrive. Here’s to 20 years of impact and many more ahead!
In Solidarity,
Brianna, Janelle, + Rob
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Winning Collectively
The year 2023 is almost officially over, and what a year it has been for worker’s rights. As of October, there have been over 300 documented strikes, comprised of over 453,000 workers, doubling the number from 2022. Almost half a million people organized and protested for their rights as employees. In California alone, the healthcare workers, hospitality employees, teachers, and both actors and writers’ unions collectively took to the picket lines for their respective causes. The most rewarding part is that there were so many wins. The efforts are paying off, and things are changing for the better. This is only the beginning. Hot labor summer transformed into a season of solidarity and, up next, a year of unity. We recognize this work is a marathon, not a sprint, and we are fully committed to continuing the job.
We also acknowledge that work of this magnitude requires rest; rest as resistance. So take some time to reflect on the strides made this year, on the power reclaimed, the voices heard, but most of all, take some time to recuperate. We invite you to carve out a moment, no matter how brief, to intentionally unplug as the year concludes. While our messages may be less frequent in the coming weeks, rest assured that we are revitalizing, reigniting our enthusiasm, and reaffirming our dedication to fostering a more equitable Bay Area economy. We will see you in 2024, energized and ready to make an even bigger impact in the Bay.
For ways to get involved click here.
In Solidarity,
Brianna, Janelle, + Rob
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