Fred Redmond, Secretary-Treasurer of the AFL-CIO, joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to talk about the kick-off events he’s attended to begin Black History Month. Redmond also discussed migrant workers and Liz Schuler’s Year of Labor 2023 article.
As part of the kick-off to Black History Month, Redmond is in Los Angeles to speak at the annual Martin Luther King Unity Brunch. Each year, the event is held to share the stories and goals of Black History Month. Redmond also discussed the AFL-CIO’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Civil and Human Rights Conference held in Montgomery, Ala. Jan 12-14. The event set the goals for the work needed to develop unity and improve diversity in labor, he said.
Redmond then talked about the AFL-CIO’s article outlining 5 essentials for a just response to the migrant workers and their vulnerability to exploitation. He detailed the steps unions should take to protect workers and hold employers accountable. Among the steps needed, he discussed the importance of improving legislation relating to migrant workers. Redmond also discussed the available resources for workers seeking help with exploitative employers.
Finally, Redmond discussed AFL-CIO President Liz Schuler’s article on the Year of Labor 2023. In the piece, Schuler talked about the record year for labor activity and what it could mean for 2024. Redmond talked about the efforts planned by the AFL-CIO to create an engaged workforce during an election year. If they can carry the momentum, Redmond believes 2024 can be another record year for workers in Labor.
For more from Redmond, listen to the show above.