On this week’s edition of Tony Talks, I was joined by Felicia Hilton, the Political Director for the North Central States Regional Council of Carpenters. We talked about how important union representation is for workers as face uncertain economic conditions in the middle of a global pandemic.
You can watch the full talk on Facebook , here.
Here are some key takeaways —
- Trades workers, like carpenters, only earn money for the work they do and don’t have systems like paid sick leave in place. If a job site is exposed to COVID-19, all those exposed are out of work and cannot work from home or go to another job site, which puts them at high financial risk.
- The fight for labor unions is not in the past. In the last 40 years there have been barriers -- legislation, intimidation, and other tactics -- to organizing workplaces. The fight isn't always on the picket lines, but it's still happening.
- If you're looking for a new career, consider entering an apprenticeship program! It's as simple as signing up on their website and doing a 12 week, hands-on apprenticeship with one class. Learn more on their website https://northcountrycarpenter.org/