The New Power of Labor in Massachusetts and Beyond

The momentum of labor, including the growth of unions and the increased leverage of workers, is reshaping the traditional workplace dynamic. In Massachusetts, with its strong labor history, unions continue to gain ground while the impact of Covid, the labor shortage, and a new generation’s embrace of greater worker rights are leading to an expansion of pay, flexibility and benefits.

Nationwide, union elections are up 58 percent in the past year. However, the new era of labor power and worker’s rights is not without its challenges, including strong pushback from corporations and laws that stymie organizing.

Join Labor Secretary Marty Walsh and Massachusetts labor leaders for a special event hosted by the State House News Service and MASSterList that will explore the important labor trends: labor’s gains, goals, and the outlook for the future.

Program:

7:30 – 8:30 a.m. : Networking

8:30 – 8:45 a.m.: Keynote address by Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh

8:45 – 9:45 a.m.: Panel discussion — The New Power of Labor: Opportunities and Challenges:

• Moderator: Katie Johnston, reporter, the Boston Globe
• Panelist: Dana Alas, VP for BMC/Community, 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East
• Panelist: Theresa McGoldrick, Executive Vice President, National Association of Government Employees/SEIU
• Panelist: Chrissy Lynch, Chief of Staff, Massachusetts AFL-CIO
• Panelist: Carlos Aramayo, President, Unite Here Local 26