US Labor Against the War

US Labor Against the War (USLAW) was a nonprofit organization established in 2003 in response to the United States' invasion of Iraq. Initially formed by over 100 delegates from various unions at a Chicago conference in January 2003, its mission evolved to focus on both domestic labor rights and international anti-war efforts[1][2].

History

USLAW was officially founded on October 25, 2003, during the National Assembly for Peace conference. The organization aimed to connect domestic US labor demands with opposition to US wars abroad. Notable members included Michael Letwin, Amy Newell, and Nancy Wohlforth[2].

Mission and Activities

USLAW's primary goals included demilitarizing US foreign policy and organizing for a new economy that prioritizes labor rights and economic justice. The organization worked closely with international labor movements, including the Iraqi Civil Society Solidarity Initiative, to promote labor rights in conflict zones like Iraq[1][4].

USLAW played a significant role in influencing the AFL-CIO, the largest labor federation in the US. The AFL-CIO began passing anti-war resolutions starting in 2005, marking a shift in its stance on US foreign policy[2].

In 2020, amid increased social movements against racism, USLAW renamed itself US Labor Against Racism and War, reflecting an expanded mission to combat systemic racism alongside its anti-war efforts. The organization became defunct in 2023[2].

Notable Events and Initiatives

• National Assemblies: USLAW held several national assemblies, starting with its founding conference in Chicago. These gatherings facilitated discussions on labor solidarity, anti-war strategies, and foreign policy reform[2].
• Iraq Labor Solidarity: USLAW supported the development of labor unions in Iraq, advocating for collective bargaining rights and striking against anti-labor policies imposed during the US occupation[4].
• International Delegations: The organization sponsored delegations to countries like Iraq and South Korea, fostering international labor cooperation and solidarity[5].

USLAW's legacy highlights the intersectional nature of labor rights and peace advocacy, emphasizing the interconnectedness of domestic and international policy issues affecting working-class communities.

[1] https://findingaids.library.nyu.edu/tamwag/wag_332/ [2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/US_Labor_Against_Racism_and_War [3] https://www.ebsco.com/research-starters/military-history-and-science/national-war-labor-board [4] https://znetwork.org/znetarticle/us-labor-against-the-war-by-kim-scipes/ [5] https://keywiki.org/U.S._Labor_Against_the_War