In 2022, we’ve seen workers here and around the country rise up to take back their own power, demanding better pay, improved working conditions, and a voice in their workplace. In New York City in particular, we’ve experienced an enormous surge in activism and organizing that’s now spread across the nation and across all industries in the workforce, leading to historic worker victories and an increase in worker power.

 

The numbers reflect the significance of the moment: this summer a new Gallup poll was released confirming that 71% of Americans now approve of labor unions — the highest level since 1965. Another survey of non-union skilled and hourly workers revealed that 70% of those workers would join a union at their current job, and about 40% said they were more likely to do so today than they were just three years ago. And the NLRB reported that Fiscal Year 2022 has seen a 53% increase since FY2021 in the number of petitions for union representation, the highest number since 2016.

 

Even in the face of increasing anti-union intimidation and retaliation, workers have stood their ground and demanded a voice at the table and dignity at work—and they know that the best way to achieve that is through membership in a union.

 

Throughout the year, the CLC has continued to work with our affiliates and our elected leaders including Mayor Eric Adams, Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, Comptroller Brad Lander, City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, our Councilmembers and our Borough Presidents to make progress toward reviving hard-hit industries, protecting jobs and critical city services, and building a resilient economy that works for all working people. And we’ve already begun our 2023 work, ramping up our Labor Votes! program in preparation for another cycle of City Council elections in June, where we’ll be working to elect more pro-labor candidates who will carry the banner for our City’s working families. Look for more information soon on how you can get involved.

 

So, on behalf of all of us at the New York City Central Labor Council, AFL-CIO, we extend our deepest appreciation and gratitude for your solidarity and for your partnership, and we wish you and your loved ones a bright, happy, and healthy 2023.