Laborers International Union of North America (LiUNA) Local 814 Business Manager Kristi Snider joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to discuss how virtual organizing during the pandemic helped to grow the Local’s ranks.
Local 814 represents about 1,100 service workers in healthcare and social assistance throughout West Virginia. Snider explained how organizing is challenging in a So-Called “Right to Work” state. Union organizers typically meet with employees during new a hire orientation to discuss the benefits of joining Local 814. With the COVID-19 pandemic, those talks were held virtually, which turned out to be more effective, she said. Local 814 will continue to host remote recruitment meetings due to this success, she added.
Snider also talked about ongoing negotiations with West Virginia Wesleyan College. She soon expects to announce a good outcome.
Lastly, Snider discussed efforts to increase participation among Local 814 members through an app the Union recently developed, which allows members to vote on various issues.
Listen to the entire episode to learn more about these topics: