Communications Workers of America

Communications Workers of America. The Communications Workers of America is a major labor union in the United States, representing workers in telecommunications, information technology, media, and other sectors. Founded in the 1930s, it has been a key player in organizing workers at companies like AT&T and Verizon and is affiliated with the AFL–CIO. The union is known for its strategic collective bargaining and political activism, advocating for workers' rights and social justice policies.

History

The union's origins trace to the National Federation of Telephone Workers, formed in 1938 amid labor unrest in the Bell System. Following a major strike in 1947, the organization reconstituted itself under its current name to build a more centralized structure. Throughout the mid-20th century, it grew alongside the expansion of AT&T and the Bell System, negotiating landmark contracts that set standards for wages and benefits. The union faced significant challenges during the 1984 Bell System divestiture, which fractured the industry, and later during the rise of deregulation and corporate restructuring in the 1990s. In the 21st century, it has expanded its focus to include workers in information technology, airline customer service, and public sector jobs.

Structure and governance

The union operates as a democratic organization with an elected national president, currently Claude Cummings Jr., and an executive board. Its governance is defined by a constitution adopted at biennial conventions, where delegates from local unions set policy. The national union is divided into districts and sectors, such as the Telecommunications and Technologies sector and the Public, Healthcare and Education Workers sector, each addressing specific industry needs. Local unions, chartered by the national body, handle day-to-day representation and contract enforcement. Major policy decisions and bargaining goals are ratified by the membership.

Political activities and lobbying

The union maintains a robust political operation through its CWA Political Action Committee and engages in extensive lobbying in Washington, D.C. and state legislatures. It is a consistent supporter of Democratic Party candidates and progressive causes, advocating for policies like net neutrality, broadband access, and the Protecting the Right to Organize Act. The union is also a founding member of the Strategic Organizing Center, a coalition with the Service Employees International Union focused on strategic campaigns. Internationally, it partners with organizations like UNI Global Union to address issues affecting workers within multinational corporations.

Major strikes and labor actions

The union has a long history of militant labor actions, beginning with the 1947 strike that led to its founding. A pivotal moment was the 1983 strike against the Bell System, which involved over 500,000 workers. In 1989, a major strike at NYNEX highlighted struggles during the post-divestiture era. The 2000 strike against Verizon centered on job security and union recognition for wireless workers. More recently, the 2016 and 2023 strikes at Verizon and the 2021 strike at WarnerMedia (now part of Warner Bros. Discovery) addressed issues like outsourcing and fair contracts in the media industry. These actions have often set important precedents for the entire telecommunications industry.

Affiliates and sectors represented

The union represents a diverse membership across multiple sectors through various affiliates and divisions. Its core remains in telecommunications, with major units at AT&T, Verizon, and Frontier Communications. Through the CWA Broadcasting and Cable Television division, it represents employees at networks like ABC News and NBC News. The Association of Flight Attendants-CWA is a major affiliate representing cabin crews at airlines including United Airlines. Other significant sectors include public sector workers in states like New Jersey, healthcare employees, and manufacturing workers at companies like General Electric. The union also maintains a presence in Canada through CWA Canada.

Category:Trade unions in the United States Category:Organizations based in Washington, D.C.