Transport Workers Union of America Local 579 AFLCIO

Overview

Transport Workers Union of America Local 579, affiliated with the AFL-CIO, represents workers primarily in the transportation sector. As part of the larger Transport Workers Union (TWU) of America, Local 579 advocates for the rights and interests of its members through collective bargaining, political action, and support services.

History

Local 579 is a chapter of the Transport Workers Union, which was founded in 1934 by Michael J. Quill to unite transit workers facing exploitation during the Great Depression. The union originally focused on New York City's subway workers but later expanded to include various transportation and utility sectors, which now encompass a diverse array of job titles such as flight attendants, mechanics, bus operators, and bikeshare workers[1][2].

Membership and Representation

Local 579 represents its members in Orlando, Florida, and engages in various activities to enhance workplace conditions, negotiate contracts, and address labor issues. The union is part of a larger network of locals under the TWU umbrella, which collectively boasts over 155,000 members nationwide[1][3]. The membership includes workers across multiple transportation modalities, including airlines, railroads, transit authorities, and public utilities.

Goals and Objectives

The primary goals of Local 579 include:

• Advocating for fair wages and benefits for workers.
• Ensuring safe working conditions across all sectors of transportation.
• Promoting workplace equality and fighting against discrimination.
• Engaging in political action to support labor-friendly policies and legislation.

Local 579 is committed to upholding the ideals of its founding, focusing on unity and collective strength to ensure that all members are treated with dignity and respect.

Affiliations

Local 579 is part of the Transport Workers Union of America, AFL-CIO, which is a significant player in labor advocacy at the national level. This affiliation allows Local 579 members to benefit from the broader support and resources provided by the TWU, including training, legal assistance, and strategic organizing efforts aimed at improving labor rights across the nation[1][4].

In summary, Transport Workers Union of America Local 579 plays a vital role in representing and advocating for its members in the transportation sector within the Orlando region. Through its dedication to workers' rights, Local 579 continues to honor the legacy of union activism initiated by its founders.