Progressive Voices

Leslie is joined by Maria Somma, Organizing Director for the United Steelworkers (USW). The two discuss how workers across the economy – from automakers to health care workers – are using their collective power to ensure they have fair contracts and safe working conditions. The first step in this process is organizing, and as workers seek greater protections on the job, they’re capitalizing on this unique moment. It’s not just the hot labor market, though the recent low unemployment has certainly helped. The pandemic helped workers in a number of industries understand that they’re essential. It has also highlighted what they needed from their employers – in terms of job security, living wages, and more – as well as the power of working together to achieve these goals. Also, Joe Biden, the most pro-labor president in recent memory, has tasked his administration with helping workers to exercise their right to form unions. This unprecedented support, and whole of government approach, has helped tip the balan