AFT Local 5151

In an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19 (novel coronavirus), Governor Ned Lamont nearly two weeks ago issued an executive order closing all public schools in Connecticut. Among the unintended consequences were furloughs and layoffs of education support personnel — including nurses and health professionals — in districts across the state. AFT Connecticut and affiliated local union leaders responded to the crisis by negotiating opportunities to re-deploy affected members to the frontlines of the pandemic.

 

Following years of advocacy, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) in 2014 adopted rules to streamline union elections for working people in the private sector. The reform now faces significant risk from the Trump Administration's appointees to the federal agency overseeing the nation's employment laws. In response, the labor movement in Connecticut is escalating efforts to assure a harassment-free process for workers seeking a stronger voice on the job.

 

One in every 15 Americans depends on their locally-based community health centers (CHCs), which in 1965 began providing primary care to underserved populations. Each is staffed by a team of medical, dental and behavioral professionals critical to their region's healthcare network and who deliver high quality, cost effective services. During the annual recognition of CHCs, we're showcasing a union member who plays an important role in assuring her community's good health.