Work and Family

Although the “traditional” family—a father who works outside the home and financially supports the children and a mother whose work is keeping the house and raising the children—has been disappearing for more than a generation, our workplaces and government policies have not kept pace with America’s new reality.

Most children are growing up in homes with both parents working or with single parents. One-third of workers don’t have access to paid sick leave, and only 42 percent have paid personal leave. What’s the impact on public health when working people can’t afford to take sick days during a flu epidemic? Who takes care of a sick child? Who’s home to fix dinner and help with homework? Who can dedicate time to a sick elderly parent?

The recession and jobless recovery have complicated life further for working families, when having to leave work for a family emergency could lead to long-term unemployment.

More about this issue:

Dec 13, 2013 | News Story

This morning, fired Trade Fair supermarket workers from the 75-07 35th Ave., Jackson Heights location took to the streets to protest their wrongful firing at the hands of former owner Farid Jaber, who owns all nine stores in the supermarket chain.  The workers were joined today by their fellow un

Dec 6, 2013 | News Story

New York State AFL-CIO has launched a new campaign designed to help create sustainable change for New York’s working men and women.

Dec 12

Hospital officials closed Labor and Delivery at North Central Bronx Hospital – Join us to ask why?

Hospital officials say they will re-open Labor and Delivery – Join us to ask when?

Dec 9, 2013 | News Story

Last week, workers from various sectors and industries got together to highlight a new day in New York City.  Workers, parents, community groups, and Labor union representatives gathered to celebrate the end where the needs of the wealthy were unfairly placed over those of everyday people.

Dec 5

Join us for a mass rally and creative actions at Foley Square starting at 4:30PM to cap off an energetic day of low-wage worker actions around the city that will bring together workers, students, activists, faith leaders and everyday New Yorkers who want to fight inequality and build a stronger,

Nov 29

Join Wal-Mart employees, Wal-Mart Free NYC, ALIGN-NY, and supporters for a Black Friday protest against Wal-Mart’s union-busting.  The group is calling for Wal-Mart to increase wages for all workers to at least $25,000 per year.

Nov 25

Protect Good Jobs, Consumers and the Environment: Stop the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) “Free” Trade Deal

Nov 14

Join members of the Civil Service Technical Guild, AFSCME Local 375, DC 37 to speak against the waste of taxpayer dollars outsourced to high-paid consultants.  Money direly needed for repairs is being spent on private contractors.  It hurts the residents, the workers, the city and the taxpayers.

Nov 14

Join Build Up NYC to Rally at City Hall to call for the passing of Intro 1169,  a bill that calls for training and tra

Nov 6, 2013 | Press Release

New York, NY – New York City Central Labor Council, AFL-CIO President Vincent Alvarez today released the following statement regarding the victories of Mayor-Elect Bill de Blasio, and a new, more progressive City Council: