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:

Jul 7, 2023 | News Story

Members in your local may be eligible for subsidized child care for working families.

Jul 7, 2023 | News Story

Around 4 AM Wednesday, UPS walked away from the bargaining table after presenting an unacceptable offer to the Teamsters that did not address members’ needs.

Jul 7, 2023 | News Story

App-based companies that account for nearly all the food deliveries in the city filed suit Thursday to stop

Jul 7, 2023 | News Story

“One job should be enough.” That was the chant and ideal that rang out last Thursday as concession workers at Barclays Center held a rally to push for better pay, better healthcare coverage, and respect from their employer, Levy.

Jul 7, 2023 | News Story

From the New York State AFL-CIO: New York is Union Strong because we are united. We share common values and interests, and we care about each other. One of the most important ways we can grow stronger as a movement is to talk with one another.  

Jun 30, 2023 | News Story

The Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU), announced last night that, by an overwhelming vote of 88% in favor of the union, workers at the Barnes & Noble Park Slope, Brooklyn store have voted to join the RWDSU.

Jun 30, 2023 | News Story

Nearly $80 million in federal funds earmarked for the Staten Island Ferry that was at risk of being rescinded has been maintained in the recent debt ceiling deal. On Wednesday, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer visited the St.

Jun 30, 2023 | News Story

Statement from AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler and Secretary-Treasurer Fred Redmond on the Supreme Court’s ruling in Students for Fair Admissions, Inc. v. President and Fellows of Harvard College and Students for Fair Admissions, Inc. v. University of North Carolina:

Jun 30, 2023 | News Story

On Wednesday, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters walked away from the national bargaining table and officially demanded UPS exchange its last, best, and final offer no later than today, June 30.