Friday’s “ICE Out of Minnesota” day is a general strike. Here’s what that means, and it boils down to the simple concept of withholding your labor. It’s about using the power that comes from the collective action of workers. When people stop working, they disrupt the normal flow of business and the economy. This disruption is the lever that can be used to pressure those in power to make changes, whether it’s advocating for fair treatment of immigrants, or any other social justice cause.
It’s understandable to feel a bit apprehensive about a general strike, especially when there are so many challenges being discussed.… Continue reading
New York City mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani is showing his support for striking Starbucks baristas by urging people not to patronize the chain. He stated that he would not be buying Starbucks while workers remain on strike, which has been organized amid stalled contract negotiations. This action comes after the company announced restructuring and the closure of hundreds of stores, leading to the union organizing its fourth strike since 2023. This move by Mamdani, a known ally of labor, is an early indication of how he may use his position as mayor.
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Across the US, Labor Day rallies saw a surge in demonstrations against various issues. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson vocally condemned potential federal troop deployments, echoing the sentiments of protestors nationwide. Numerous cities, including New York, Los Angeles, and Washington DC, witnessed coordinated protests organized by labor unions and advocacy groups, focusing on workers’ rights and social safety nets. Concurrently, workers at the Hilton Americas-Houston initiated a nine-day strike, demanding better wages and highlighting the continued struggle for fair labor practices.
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On Thursday, four Bay Area locations of Blue Bottle coffee voted to unionize, joining the growing trend of barista organizing across the U.S. The workers, who voted 22 to 5 in favor of joining the Blue Bottle Independent Union, aim to secure better benefits and higher wages to address the high cost of living. This independent union, which previously unionized six locations in the Boston area, is focused on maintaining flexibility and control. The union drive, announced in June, highlights concerns regarding benefits, wages, and transparency in coffee sourcing.
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Matt Underwood 
John Q. Hosedrinker