After almost two decades apart, Oregon’s largest labor groups, Service Employees International Union Local 503 and Oregon AFL-CIO, have decided to reunite. SEIU Local 503, representing around 72,000 caregivers and professionals, announced their decision to rejoin the Oregon AFL-CIO, which consists of over 300,000 unionized Oregon workers in various industries.
The move comes as SEIU members gear up for contract negotiations and as the labor movement prepares for potential challenges under the new administration of Republican President-elect Donald Trump. By reuniting, the two unions believe they can better protect workers’ rights and safety in the face of potential federal attacks on labor unions.
The decision to rejoin stems from SEIU members’ desire to have a stronger voice in advocating for higher wages and better benefits amidst a growing labor market. Unity and solidarity with other workers were key themes in discussions held over the past year, leading to the decision to rejoin forces with the Oregon AFL-CIO.
Oregon’s labor leaders emphasize the importance of unity in the face of potential threats from the federal government, as they work to protect workers and their families in the state. Both organizations are committed to resisting attacks on unions and communities, ensuring the resilience of the Oregon labor movement.
The president of Oregon AFL-CIO, Graham Trainor, believes that the unity of the two powerful organizations will make them even stronger in their mission to protect workers’ rights and freedoms in Oregon. The decision to reunite is seen as a strategic move to strengthen the labor movement in the face of potential challenges ahead.
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