Sandra Lee Williams, Deputy Political Director of the RWDSU, was recently awarded the Benjamin L. Hooks Keeper of the Flame Award by the NAACP at their National Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina. This esteemed recognition honors individuals who continue to make a powerful impact on civil rights, labor, and community justice. Named for the legendary Benjamin L. Hooks, the fifth Executive Director of the NAACP and a tireless champion of equality, the award is one of the organization’s most meaningful tributes.

On July 1, RWDSU Local 338 members at Duane Reade voted overwhelmingly to ratify a new contract. Bargaining alongside Workers United Local 340A, RWDSU members faced months of little to no movement at the bargaining table. As rumors swirled about a hedge fund looking to buy Duane Reade’s parent company, Walgreens, members stayed united and focused on winning the contract they deserve. By bravely sharing their personal stories, members pushed management to finally move at the table.

RWDSU Local 1102 members at NYU Dental, food service workers employed by Compass Group, have successfully negotiated and ratified a new union contract that delivers substantial wage increases, enhanced contributions to the Medical Fund, and a range of critical workplace improvements. These workers support the NYU campus community every day, and this agreement is a major step forward in recognizing their skill, commitment, and value.

When immigrant workers are removed from their jobs, it’s not just them and their families who suffer, it's the workers left behind who are forced to pick up the pieces. RWDSU member Tom Torres from Michigan brought this reality to Washington, D.C. in July, speaking alongside union leaders and workers from across industries in the AFL-CIO about how shrinking workforces are straining employees with excessive shifts and overtime, threatening worker safety, and shrinking communities.