The legislative and economic landscape is shifting, and not in favor of the working class. The hard-fought gains we’ve achieved through collective bargaining — better wages, safer working conditions, and job security — are under direct threat. For nearly 90 years, the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) has protected these rights, but today, its very existence is being challenged on the unprecedented claim that it is unconstitutional.
We cannot afford to be complacent. The elimination of unions is not just a distant possibility — it is a real and imminent danger. If we do not take action, we risk losing everything generations of workers have fought to secure. The Young Workers Initiative Committee believes that education is key. If more members understand the union’s history and its essential role in preserving our quality of life, they will be more motivated to protect it.
To that end, as mentioned in the prior issue, we are hosting regional meet and greets to engage young workers, educate them on our history, and inspire greater involvement. The first event recently took place in Region IV, where Juanita Ray, Local 223 President, helped launch the local’s young workers group. The event was well attended by leadership and many eager young workers.
We began with an overview of the Young Workers Initiative Committee, discussing its structure, role, and ongoing projects. The highlight of the event was a powerful presentation by Steve Wyatt, a veteran unionist and educator. Steve delivered a deep and emotional dive into the history of the NLRA, emphasizing the sacrifices made by labor movement pioneers — many of whom lost their lives fighting for the rights we enjoy today.
The response from young workers was overwhelmingly positive. Many expressed how the presentation moved them, inspiring a newfound urgency to get involved. That is our goal — to replace apathy with action and complacency with commitment.
We will continue hosting meet and greets throughout the year, and we hope to see you at one soon. If we can inspire enough workers — young and old — through education and awareness, we will hold the line against those seeking to dismantle our rights.
Stay tuned for event dates and locations on the UWUA website. We look forward to meeting you and standing together to protect our future.