Work and Family

Although the “traditional” family—a father who works outside the home and financially supports the children and a mother whose work is keeping the house and raising the children—has been disappearing for more than a generation, our workplaces and government policies have not kept pace with America’s new reality.

Most children are growing up in homes with both parents working or with single parents. One-third of workers don’t have access to paid sick leave, and only 42 percent have paid personal leave. What’s the impact on public health when working people can’t afford to take sick days during a flu epidemic? Who takes care of a sick child? Who’s home to fix dinner and help with homework? Who can dedicate time to a sick elderly parent?

The recession and jobless recovery have complicated life further for working families, when having to leave work for a family emergency could lead to long-term unemployment.

More about this issue:

Oct 27

Through November 2: Season 12 of the Workers Unite Film Festival kicks off Friday, October 27th to November 12th. Catch 50-plus films live at Cinema Village theater (22 East 12th St) from 10/27-11/2, with a selection of films available online 11/3-11/10.

Nov 8

Wednesday, November 8, 6 -7:30PM: Please join the New York Labor History Association and the Tamiment Library and Robert F.

Nov 17

Friday, November 17, 10AM-12PM: This webinar will discuss the importance of Unemployment Insurance Reform to the labor movement. Unions are a powerful voice for their members and all working people in New York State.

Oct 20, 2023 | News Story

The orchestra of NYC music producer Distinguished Concerts International New York (DCINY), members of American Federation of Musicians Local 802, has reached a 5 year tentative agreement after eight months on strike and four years of bargaining.

Oct 20, 2023 | News Story

Allies from the NYC Labor Movement rallied in New York City on Wednesday in support of BCTGM Local 390G workers on strike against International Flavors and Fragrances (IFF) in Memphis, Tenn.

Oct 20, 2023 | News Story

On Tuesday, the NYC CLC and UFT held our Future in Focus: Exploring the World of Organized Labor and Unionized Careers event, an opportunity for students to learn about unionized careers in New York City, as well as collective bargaining and the impact of organized labor on our society.

Oct 20, 2023 | News Story

RWDSU/UFCW Local 338, UFCW Local 1500 and UFCW Local 342 gathered in Manhattan's Astor Place Wednesday morning to show Wegmans that New York is a union town! Members educated opening day shoppers on the #UnionDifference and encouraged them to support the workers if they choose to unionize.

Oct 20, 2023 | News Story

The UAW Big Three Stand Up Strike continues, and members at the Stellantis plant in Tappan, NY need our support. Here's how to help:

Oct 18

Union members and labor allies of the Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers International Union (BCTGM) prepare to protest outside the headquarters of International Flavors & Fragrances at 521 W. 57th St. in New York City on October 18th.

Oct 13, 2023 | News Story

Nearly 113 years after the tragedy, the long-awaited public memorial to the victims and legacy of the 1911 Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire was dedicated Wednesday in front of a crowd numbering in the thousands at th