Fred Redmond, Secretary-Treasurer of the AFL-CIO, joined America’s Work Force Union Podcast for another installment of First Friday with Fred as he discussed the Permission to Dream initiative.
Redmond is a part of the Chris Gardner Foundation’s “Permission to Dream” initiative, as he helps educate high school students on alternative career paths instead of college. According to Redmond, the partnership ensures all students, especially students of color, complete their high school education. The students selected for the program must complete North America’s Building Trades Unions Apprenticeship Readiness Program. After graduation, students will be placed in a Local building trades union’s registered apprenticeship program. As apprentices, they not only get paid to work but also receive a stipend to cover the cost of all tools, required equipment and transportation assistance.
He then spoke about the Battle of Homestead Foundation, which helps to remind people about the importance of studying labor history. The Battle of Homestead Foundation comprises a group of Pittsburgh historians who work to maintain Pittsburgh’s labor history. They also regularly provide lectures and educational sessions out of the historic water pump building, which was part of the former Homestead Steel Mill complex.
Redmond believes educating the younger generation on the history of organized labor would help them build a pro-union sentiment. As many younger workers continue to fight for union rights, Redmond is reminded of historical labor fights. He thinks these younger workers who are attempting to organize would be more motivated by knowing the real history of organized labor.
Listen to the entire episode to learn more.