When the Washington State Labor Council adopted an immigrant rights resolution last year, some credit was due to a progressive organization that only began in the fall of 2006.
Organized Workers for Labor Solidarity is a multiracial, multicultural group of labor activists working to strengthen collective action among unions. "We support the rank and file; we're not appointed by union bureaucrats," says OWLS co-leader Mike Jung, a member of Office and Professional Employees International Union Local 8. "We say no to wage decreases and back contracts."
The State Labor Council's immigrant rights resolution was based on a similar resolution written by OWLS. It denounced "guest worker plans," a climate of racist scapegoating, and regressive immigrant legislation in Congress. "The immigrant rights resolution has been our biggest accomplishment," says Jung.
OWLS' latest issue concerns supporting King County bus drivers in their pursuit of a new contract.
OWLS meets the fourth Tuesday of every month at the Seattle Labor Temple, Hall 132, 2800 First Ave. For info call (206)854-1085 or email [email protected]