Today, workers at the Patagonia store in SoHo filed for a union election with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) seeking representation with the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU). This filing marks a major turning point for employees of the outdoor apparel giant, as they move to become the first unionized Patagonia location in the eastern United States. The filing joins a powerful streak of retail organizing and contract wins by the RWDSU in New York City and beyond.

Today’s announcement by the USDA is a dangerous step that puts corporate profits over the lives and safety of the essential workers who keep our food supply chain running. By proposing to permanently increase line speeds and remove critical worker safety oversight, the USDA is knowingly inviting a surge in workplace injuries and fatalities in an industry that is already among the most hazardous in the country.

Today, the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU) announced its endorsement of Antonio Reynoso for New York’s 7th Congressional District (NY-7). The endorsement highlights Reynoso’s career-long commitment to New York’s working families and his proven record of standing on the front lines with union members in their fight for dignity, safety, and fair contracts. From his tenure as an organizer to his time in the New York City Council and his leadership as Borough President, Antonio Reynoso has consistently demonstrated that he understands the needs of the people who move New York’s economy. Whether advocating for affordable housing or championing landmark worker protections, Reynoso has never wavered in his support for the labor movement and RWDSU members.

Today, the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU) announced its endorsement of Letitia “Tish” James for re-election as Attorney General of New York. This endorsement marks the latest chapter in a deep, decades-long partnership between the RWDSU and James, a relationship that spans her entire career in public service in the fight for justice for working people. From her first run for the New York City Council to her tenure as Public Advocate and her historic election as Attorney General, the RWDSU has stood with Tish James. Today’s announcement reaffirms that James remains the premier champion for New York’s working class in the office of the New York Attorney General.