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:

May 10

Click below for the schedule and for more information.

Mar 22, 2013 | News Story

As President of the New York City Central Labor Council (AFL-CIO), I represent over 1.3 million workers across many industries and professions in the private sector, public sector and building and construction trades.  Many of these workers have the benefit of collective bargaining agreements tha

Apr 26, 2013 | News Story

The New York City Central Labor Council has launched a new website.  Please take a look around and get acquainted and feel free to drop us an email to tell us what you think!  For information on our affiliate organizations, please click here

Apr 25, 2012 | Press Release

We are disappointed with the Mayor’s veto of the Good Jobs Act, which would have made a real difference in the lives of many hardworking families.

Apr 1, 2012 | Press Release

“The Executive Order was done without public discussion and behind closed doors. No effort was made to communicate with the workers, they deserve better than that, and that’s why we back their legal challenge,” said NYC Central Labor Council President Vincent Alvarez.
 

Jul 6, 2012 | Press Release

Read newspaper coverage of Labor's prevailing wage win quoting Vinny Alvarez.

NY POST: Mike loses labor fight in court 

By DAVID SEIFMAN and DAREH GREGORIAN

Apr 19, 2013 | News Story

A commonsense immigration reform bill was unveiled this week which offers a pathway to citizenship for millions of immigrants currently living in the United States.  The bill would also ensure that immigrants are covered by US labor law, including minimum wage and workplace safety requirements.