NSFL July 2026 Newsletter

Dear Union Siblings & Friends,
We hope you're enjoying your summer! We know how busy everyone is, but the politicians attacking collective bargaining and workers' rights aren't slowing down. In fact, anti-union candidates have spent tens of millions on TV ads since March—and just dumped millions more to tear down our pro-union slate.
We can't afford to wait until after Labor Day to respond. The work starts right now. Sign the volunteer pledge, join us for an upcoming action, and help us hold the line!
In solidarity,
North Shore AFL-CIO Team
TAKE ACTION
Kick Off the Labor Votes 2026 Program on August 1
Join us August 1 at PJ McIntyre's to launch our Labor Votes 2026 program and rally behind one of our own: Iron Workers Local 17 brother Brian Poindexter as he campaigns for Ohio's 7th Congressional District.
This election cycle directly impacts working families, and organized labor makes the ultimate difference at the ballot box. When union activists stand together, we turn elections in our favor.
We need every voice and pair of hands to elect our slate of pro-union candidates. You can power this movement in several key ways:
- Canvassing: Walk your neighborhood, host a walk, or join a scheduled Day of Action.
- Writing Postcards: Reach fellow union members from home, at a group event, or by hosting your own gathering.
- Phone Banking: Call union households on your own time or help organize a phone bank for your local.
- Operational Support: Assemble and distribute yard signs, enter data, or assist with event setup.
- Financial Support: Fuel our campaign by donating to the PAC at northshoreaflcio.org/pac.
Step up for working people today—learn more and get involved at northshoreaflcio.org/Labor26!
FEDERATION NEWS
Brian Poindexter Addresses North Shore Delegates
At our July 8 meeting, Iron Workers Local 17 brother Brian Poindexter addressed North Shore delegates as he campaigns for U.S. Congress in District 7. Poindexter aims to defeat incumbent Max Miller, who holds a dismal 14% AFL-CIO voting record. Declaring he's "not just pro-labor" but "IS labor," Poindexter urged members to act by talking to their coworkers and knocking on doors. You can join us August 1 to knock for Brian and others!
Big 8th Inning Rally Highlights Union Family Day
Thank you to everyone who joined us for Union Family Day at Progressive Field! Members and families enjoyed great food, cold drinks, and fantastic company in the Pennant District. The Guardians trailed 4-1 to the Seattle Mariners going into the bottom of the 8th, but scored five runs to pull ahead, thanks to an RBI single from Daniel Schneemann, a two-run double from Rhys Hoskins, and a two-run single by Chase DeLauter. We look forward to seeing you again next year!
Catch the July Episode of "Labor in the Land"!
Don't miss the July episode of "Labor in The Land," the official North Shore AFL-CIO podcast! Hosts Hector Alvarado (UWUA Local G-555) and Brian Pearson welcome Jerry Miluk to discuss his local's effort in the historic SB 5 fight and its connections to the 2026 election. Plus, Brown University researcher Sonya Rashkovan details her summer study with the Federation on how AI impacts our workforce. Find us on Apple, Spotify, and Podbean. Listen here.
Ohio Pro Fire Fighters Release "Fight of a Generation" Documentary
To commemorate the fifteenth anniversary of defeating Senate Bill 5/Issue 2—the biggest political threat Ohio's public workers ever faced—the Ohio Association of Professional Fire Fighters released a new documentary, "Fight of a Generation." The documentary details the role firefighters played in saving collective bargaining rights and protecting working families. Watch it here.
SEIU District 1199 Authorizes Dual Strikes
Labor disputes are intensifying across Cleveland as SEIU District 1199 members overwhelmingly authorized strikes at both the Cleveland Public Library and Cleveland Clinic Lutheran Hospital. Backed by 97% member support, library workers cite stalled negotiations over pay, safety, and staffing. Simultaneously, Lutheran Hospital healthcare staff are pushing back against unfair labor practices.
Youth Labor Day Design Contest
Children, grandchildren, and young family of union members are invited to participate in our Labor Day Design Contest! Participants will receive a union-themed book, and one design will be chosen and worn by our group in the 11th Congressional District Labor Day Parade. All entries should be submitted by Friday, August 7. The design should reflect elements of union pride, solidarity, or illustrate how "It's Better in a Union." Get more information here.
ARTICLES & ACTION
- "ADP employees vote to unionize" — Geauga Maple Leaf
- "The Case for Tripling Union Membership: How Rebuilding Union Power Would Strengthen Workers, the Economy, and Our Democracy" — Economic Policy Institute
- "AI leads US job cuts for record 4th month as tech claims 31% of H1 layoffs" — Tech Times
- "Bosses are becoming obsessed with AI..." — Futurism
TAKE ACTION
- Register for the AFL-CIO Organizing Institute in Detroit, August 12–14
- Enter the Union Plus #UnionsPowerAmerica Sweepstakes
- Support a Fair Contract for Cleveland Museum of Natural History Workers
- Make Your Summer Cookout Union-Made!
UPCOMING EVENTS
West Side Door Knocking
August 1, 9:30 a.m.
PJ McIntyre's, 17119 Lorain Ave., Cleveland
Parma Door Knocking
August 8, 9:30 a.m.
Michael A. Ries Park, 5000 Forestwood Dr., Parma
CLUW Ohio Chapter BBQ
August 8, 1–5 p.m.
USW Local 979, 3421 Independence Rd., Cleveland