Around Labor

Download the March 2008 issue in PDF format

By Anthony Saavedra

The International Association of Machinists named Matthew McKinnon, former Labor Council political director, as legislative and political director.

• The United Labor Center is looking for an artist interested in creating a union friendly art experience in the lobby of 3737 Camino del Rio South. For more information, contact Dean Okamura at (619) 228-8101, ext. 7.
• SEIU Local 221 member and National City Fire Inspector Robert Drew was awarded the George Meany Award, labor’s highest honor for service to youth through the Boy Scouts of America.
• More than 150 supporters of SEIU Local 1877 marched Downtown on March 7. Participants asked for “Justice for Janitors” in the fight for fair contracts at area office buildings.
• Pride at Work and the Labor Council will host the LGBT Labor Leadership School on Friday, April 18 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The $35 registration fee covers materials, lunch and membership in Pride at Work. For more information, contact Sandra Telep at stelep@aflcio.org or (202) 487-9171.
• About 150 people came out to support Teamsters/GCIU members at the San Diego Union-Tribune’s press room on February 26. Management is demanding that employees accept a 40 percent cut in wages, the elimination of family health care, and the end of seniority for vacation selection.

Did your local negotiate a new contract, organize new members, or have a job action? Let us know. Items for “Around Labor” may be sent to asaavedra@unionyes.org.