The Virginia IAM Council recently held a meeting that brought together union members and leaders to discuss key labor issues and the importance of political participation ahead of the upcoming Virginia elections. Charles Mann, president of the council, spoke about the need to prioritize member security, fair compensation, and workplace safety. He urged members to vote for candidates who support labor, as all major statewide offices and delegate seats will be contested in the next election.
Newly unionized members from local botanical gardens shared their experiences with organizing efforts. They described how support from both international and state union partners, including the AFL-CIO, has helped them in their efforts to improve workplace conditions.
Speakers at the meeting emphasized that political engagement and voting are essential to advancing the labor movement and protecting workers’ rights, regardless of political party.
