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For Immediate Release
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Anthony DeAngelo: (202) 637-5018

In 24 Hours FairPoint, Walmart and Steelworkers Show Collective Action Makes a Difference

AFL-CIO Communications Director Eric Hauser issued the following statement in light of recent worker victories:

"What a difference a day makes. In the past 24 hours, Walmart workers got a raise, IBEW and CWA workers settled their strike with FairPoint, and United Steelworkers made safety at oil refinery plants a national issue. One 24 hour period shows how much progress can be made when workers come together to speak with one voice.

WASHINGTON

AFL-CIO Communications Director Eric Hauser issued the following statement in light of recent worker victories:

"What a difference a day makes. In the past 24 hours, Walmart workers got a raise, IBEW and CWA workers settled their strike with FairPoint, and United Steelworkers made safety at oil refinery plants a national issue. One 24 hour period shows how much progress can be made when workers come together to speak with one voice.

Collective action must be at the heart of the growing discussion about raising wages. Only when workers pool their power can they make progress that benefits not just union members but all workers and entire communities.

The American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) works tirelessly to improve the lives of working people. We are the democratic, voluntary federation of 56 national and international labor unions that represent 12.5 million working men and women.