A new survey by the AFL-CIO shows young workers worse off this year than they were last year.
In response, the federation is ratcheting up its outreach program to connect with the next generation of workers.
The survey shows young workers are more likely to be working part time, if at all, and have fewer resources to fall back on than they did just last year.
Only 52 percent of young workers surveyed said that they have enough savings to cover their living expenses for two months or more, compared with 60 percent in 2009.
Sixty percent report being concerned about their futures, compared with 41 percent last year. Many also are concerned they will fare worse than previous generations when they reach retirement age.
“In these tough economic times, young workers need more than ever to know the value of collective action and be connected with unions,” said AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Liz Shuler.
The AFL-CIO will establish a National Young Worker Advisory Council to advise the federation’s executive council on the short-term and long-term goals of the young workers’ outreach program. UTU International President Mike Futhey is a member of the executive council.
Another step being taken by the federation include developing a mentoring model for bringing experienced union leaders and young workers together to learn from each other.
The AFL-CIO also will be working with the American Federation of Teachers to develop new ways to include curricula about unions in classrooms around the country and to build a stronger presence on college campuses.
Related News
- Strike Avoided: SMART-TD Local 1594 Reaches Tentative Agreement with SEPTA. A Victory for Transit Workers’ Safety and Dignity
- Help find the LA shooter responsible for attempted murder of SMART-TD transit member
- Amtrak Thinks No AC Is No Problem! They Are Dead Wrong
- SMART-TD AND CSX CELEBRATE 40 YEARS OF SUCCESS
- TWU’s SEPTA Workers May Strike In Philadelphia On Nov. 7, 2024
- SMART-TD Presidential Endorsement
- Workers Unite Against Keolis at Boston’s South Station
- Your Retirement Is At Risk In This Election
- Full slate of SMART-TD endorsements released
- Boston rally tomorrow 10/23: Stand with Keolis commuter railroad workers