Alabama Arise members last fall adopted worker power as the newest legislative priority in our fight for a better Alabama for all. And around the state, everyday people across industries, communities and faith traditions are coming together to build something bigger than any particular bill or policy: a movement for worker power and economic justice.
Arise’s Worker Power Campaign aims to strengthen the voice of workers in every part of public life. While we respond to bills affecting workers’ rights and conditions during the legislative session, the campaign also works year-round to build relationships, educate communities and support workers fighting for dignity on the job.
Multiple ways you can get involved
That work is taking many forms. We were proud to join labor and community partners with Recall Injustice at Hyundai-Kia last fall in fighting for better and safer jobs in the auto supply chain, which has a huge and significant presence in Alabama. We’re participating in the AFL-CIO “Labor in the Pulpit” program, where labor leaders speak with congregations about the shared values and power of faith and labor. We hope congregations and faith-based member groups will consider working with us on these and other engagements to build bonds around the dignity that Alabama workers deserve.
Our campaign is spreading working-class solidarity online and in person, from rallies and conferences to small groups and one-on-ones. We’ve been traveling the state to engage with many important groups, including the Good Neighbors Alabama coalition and Jobs to Move America, Alabama Poor People’s Campaign, Alabama State Council of Machinists, United Campus Workers of Alabama, Communications Workers of America, Alabama Historical Association, League of Women Voters of Alabama, North Alabama Area Labor Council and more.
These conversations help connect workplace struggles to broader fights for economic justice and democracy. And the work is just getting started.
We’re organizing alongside partners to lift up key dates like Workers Memorial Day to highlight workers’ contributions and the importance of standing together for fair wages, safe workplaces and the freedom to organize. And we’re excited about our new partnership with Public School Strong and the potential to expand advocacy for the public education that our students, educators and communities deserve.
Building worker power isn’t just about what happens at the Legislature. It’s about strengthening the relationships, solidarity and collective action that make change possible, from the State House to the shop floor and beyond. With your continued help, we’re making it happen!