Communications Workers of America

Overview

The Communications Workers of America (CWA) is a major U.S. labor union that represents a diverse range of workers in the communications, media, airlines, higher education, healthcare, manufacturing, high-tech, and public sectors. Founded in 1938 as the National Federation of Telephone Workers, it was renamed the Communications Workers of America in 1947.

History

CWA's origins began in the Bell System, focusing primarily on telephone workers. Over the years, it expanded its membership base to include workers from multiple industries. The union's transformation into the Communications Workers of America in 1947 followed a period of significant activity, including strikes and organizing efforts, aimed at establishing a national union that could counter the centralized power of the Bell System.

In 1949, CWA merged with the Telephone Workers' Organizing Committee and joined the Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO). With the AFL-CIO merger in 1955, CWA became an affiliate of the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO).

Membership and Industries

CWA represents approximately 700,000 members across over 1,200 local unions in the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. Its members work in various professions, including telecommunications, broadcasting, airlines, education, healthcare, customer service, manufacturing, and government services. Key employers of CWA members include AT&T, Verizon, major airlines, media networks, and several government entities.

Leadership and Structure

CWA is led by a national executive board, which includes a president, secretary-treasurer, and vice presidents from different geographic districts. The union emphasizes member participation in decision-making processes and democratic governance.

Affiliated Organizations

CWA has absorbed several unions over the years, including the International Typographical Union, National Association of Broadcast Employees and Technicians, Newspaper Guild, and Association of Flight Attendants. These mergers reflect CWA's commitment to expansion and consolidation within the labor movement.

Policy and Advocacy

CWA engages in significant legislative and political activities, advocating for worker-friendly policies and social reforms. The union supports initiatives such as affordable healthcare, retirement security, and fair trade practices. It is also a founding member of the Democracy Initiative, a coalition promoting democratic reforms and civic engagement.

Key Initiatives

CWA has launched several major campaigns, including the Speed Matters campaign aimed at ensuring access to affordable high-speed internet across the U.S. Additionally, it has been involved in efforts to keep call center jobs in the U.S. and to hold corporations accountable for their employment practices.