Amber Miller, Director of the United Steelworkers' Rapid Response Program, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the program's 30-year history, current initiatives and efforts to combat gerrymandering. Miller highlighted the program's focus on educating members about legislative issues, the upcoming "Empower Hour" campaign and the importance of fair redistricting.
The Rapid Response Program, celebrating its 30th anniversary, serves as a nonpartisan grassroots legislative communication and action program. Miller explained that the program educates members on workplace issues, including collective bargaining, health and safety, affordable healthcare and domestic economic policy. By providing information and encouraging action, the program aims to hold elected officials accountable and help members make informed decisions at the ballot box.
Miller introduced the upcoming "Empower Hour" campaign, which will launch on October 1st. This initiative involves distributing petitions to worksites and seeking signatures from members on issues crucial to Steelworkers. The campaign aims to engage membership, foster discussions on the shop floor and demonstrate to elected officials that workers are paying attention. Miller emphasized the importance of member-to-member communication and educating workers about the long-term corporate agenda affecting their lives.
Addressing gerrymandering, Miller discussed its impact on fair representation and its challenges to working people. She highlighted successful efforts in Michigan to combat gerrymandering, which led to fairer district maps and the repeal of So-Called “Right-To-Work” laws. Miller stressed the importance of nonpartisan committees in redistricting to ensure fair representation and accountability in the political process.
Listen to the full episode above to learn more about the Steelworkers' Rapid Response Program and its impact on workers' rights.