AFL-CIO, Washington State Labor Council audiovisual collection, 1944-1999

"Land of Promise" gives a historical outline of unionism, and it discusses how this history affects citizens' lives today. "Humphrey" contains moments from former U.S. Vice President Hubert Humphrey's last public appearance before a union audience at the Minnesota AFL-CIO convention on September 19, 1977. "Livable Income Campaign" consists of Karen Keiser of the Washington State Labor Council interviewing Jeff Johnson, the Director of Research for the Washington State Labor Council, about the low minimum wage in Washington.

"Rally '82" captures Washington State's 1982 labor rally, held in Olympia, as well as discussing the purpose of the meeting. The film includes workers, labor unions and comittees, and students from as far away as Bellingham and the Tri-Cities. "Rebuilding America's Competetive Edge" talks about the economic downturns that have caused the steel industry in America to falter, as well as the steps being taken in inclusive worker management to reverse the trend of closures.

"The Burning Issue" discusses new threats to firefighters' safety in the form of toxic gases produced by the burning of modern materials. The program features Seattle firefighters and representatives from the Washington Federation of Firefighters. "The Silent Attack" is a dramatic portrayal of an EMT's struggle to get workers' compensation after contracting Hepatitis B on the job. Finally, Marv Williams and Larry Kenney discuss the Washington State Labor Council's 1982 rally in Olympia, Washington.

"Musicians Union" is a 1988 program about labor disputes of musicians in Hawaii and Las Vegas. Includes interviews with both strikers and labor representatives. "Workers and Parents" is about the rising role of unions in clerical and office workplace settings, in addition to its presence in industrial facilities. The piece follows two members of the AFSCME union, a secretary from Washington and a social worker from Virginia, and the two talk about how their roles as workers impact their effectiveness as parents.

"The Bottom Line" discusses industry relocation in efforts to reduce input costs and the loss of jobs as a result. "Building our Future": The opening titles read: "Throughout 1986, the Building and Construction Trades Department of the AFL-CIO struggled to win union protections for the workers building a Toyota auto assembly plant in Georgetown, Kentucky. The outcome of those activities and the resulting project agreement have broad implications for all working men and women. What follows is a chronicle of that struggle."

"Road to Haymarket" is a 1986 documentary that discusses the pro-labor Haymarket Affair in Chicago in 1886, as well as the resounding effects of this event in the century that followed. "Memorial Day Massacre" speaks of the incidents surrounding the 1937 steelworkers' strikes in Chicago. "Solidarity" discusses the idea of union solidarity as one of the most effective tools in fighting for labor rights. "Democracy at Work" is a piece about the union's role in supporting the democratic process in general, and governmental canditates in particular.

"Pay Equity II" discusses the changing roles of women on the job and in society, as well as the legal and political consequences concerning the drive for equal pay between men and women. "How About Some Respect Around Here?" uses workplace reenactments to explore the correlation between stress-related diseases and poor supervision of clerical workers. "Women of Summer" is a 1986 documentary that tells the story of Bryn Mawr's Summer School for Working Women, which aimed to give educational opportunities to those women working in factories.

"Challenge of the Future" discusses the importance of solidarity among members of the labor force. "Singing for the Union" focuses on the Great Labor Song Exchange and the role of music in the labor movement. "First Comes Food" pertains to closure of steel mills in Los Angeles, specifically how members of the labor community in California coped with various unemployment issues in the wake of shutdowns.

"The Changing State Economy" examines the "changing state of Washington's economy from the worker's point of view." Topics include the effects of income level disparity, the impact of technology on the employment landscape, increases in the female workforce, and industrial policies in Japan. "United Farm Workers of Washington State" looks at the creation of a UFW office in Washington State. Topics include the history of Washington farmworkers, the needs of this group, and bracero guest worker programs.

Washington Works interviews Washington State political candidates for upcoming 1988 elections. Dan Grimm (for State Treasurer), Mike Murphy (for Commisioner of Public Lands), and Larry Kenney are interviewed. A move to clean up toxic waste in Washington State, Initiative 97, is a notable topic of discussion.

A panel discussion about various apprenticeships in Washington State. The program contains a question and answer session about who qualifies for apprenticeships, the purpose such appointments serve in the working world, and information as to how people apply for various apprenticeships.

A special election edition of the program Washington Works, which includes discussions with labor-endorsed political candidates in the upcoming 1988 elections and working peoples' views on the political hopefuls.

The program discusses the central role that song has played in the organization of labor movements over the years.

Explores the role of labor unions in the airline industry, specifically for female flight attendants, and how unions are working to overcome systematized sexism in airline management.

"Making Legislatures Accountable" discusses Legislative Action Committees as means of combating the anti-labor elements in government. "Voter Registration" speaks of the various methods currently in place to get unregistered American citizens to vote in the upcoming elections.

"Learning by Doing" concerns the United States' economic decline as a world power, and how this factor relates to lower wages and higher unemployment for workers. "Micro Electronics Revolution" similarly discusses the need for Americans to remain a competitive and skilled workforce in the world market, particulary as it pertains to technology.

"Talking About Women Workers" discusses the integration of women within the workforce. Sexism, harrassment in working environments, gender discrimination, and the effects on marriage and homelife are some of the main topics of discussion. In "Plant Closures," the problem of disappearing jobs in America is addressed, along with steps that have been taken to forestall the effects of plant shutdowns.

"Industrial Policy" discusses a cooperative relationship between government, labor, and management that attempts to spur domestic industrial employment and remain competitive with other nations. "Job Retraining" concerns the Jobs Training Partnership Act, a 1982 law that established federal assistance programs to prepare youth and unskilled adults for entry into the labor force.

"Wrath of Grapes" focuses on the United Farmworkers Union and Cesar Chavez's efforts to ban harmful pesticides to improve the health of farmworkers, and it also explores the struggles of California grape workers in forming a union. "Health Care Cost Containment Crisis, Part 1" is about the increasing costs of healthcare for workers and management's struggle to contain costs.

"Health Care Containment Crisis, Part 2" presents the negotiations between employers and employees on healthcare benefits."Our Job's Not Done" discusses the history of unions through some of its most longstanding members, the purpose of which is to highlight the ongoing struggle for fair treatment in the workplace.

"Why We're Here"" documents U.S. Steel workers being locked out of their jobs and laid off. They gather in front of the mill to protest against the company, and ultimatelly get their jobs back. People from different unions support these efforts because they believe that union busting will ultimately have a domino effect. "Organizing: The Road to Dignity" highlights the story of food production workers, and their efforts to form strong labor unions.

"To Dream" discusses Martin Luther King, Jr.'s famous speech, and draws parallels between the struggle for racial equality and the goals of the American labor movement. "From Rags to Riches" is an expose of exploitative labor practices in Bangkok, Thailand, as well as of the western countries that benefit from this exploitation. The final piece is a recorded speech by Benjamin Hooks, the Executive Director of the NAACP, in which he speaks of the connection between his organization and the AFL-CIO.

"Workers and Parents" is about the rising role of unions in clerical and office workplace settings, in addition to its presence in industrial facilities. The piece follows two members of the AFSCME (American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees) union, a secretary from Washington and a social worker from Virginia, and the two talk about how their roles as workers impact their effectiveness as parents. "Viet Vet Survival Guide" is a production of the AFSCME Labor News Network. Interviews in this program are conducted with the secretary of Vietnam Veterans of America and the director of the VVA Legal Service.

"Construction is a Natural High" is a narrative that discusses substance abuse and on-the-job safety. "Drug and Alcohol Testing on the Job" is a panel discussion conerning the measures described in the title. "Testing the Drug Testers" is an expose about the margin for human error in regards to drug testing facilities.

"Toxic Earth" dicusses the common concerns between environmentalists and labor organizations regarding hazardous materials and transparency. "Right to Know" informs viewers of proper labeling procedures for potentially hazardous materials.

An explanation of grievance procedures and union contracts, with actor reenactments of workplace grievances and advice for management.

"Losing Ground" and "Government for Sale" both discuss the loss of American jobs to foreign markets, as well as the shrinking middle class.

"50 Years of Industrial Unionism" provides a history of the labor movement in the United States. "The Luddites" provides a history of the early attempt at labor organization and rights. "Facing the Future" is a panel discussion concerning shifts in the labor landscape in the Eighties.

"Pay Equity" discusses the wage differential between men and women. "Child Care in America" looks at the difficulties associated with families that have two working parents.

"The Greatest Story Never Told" tells the story of thirteen union members that dramatized their jobs as a performance piece on stage in Los Angeles. "Ed and Scab" is a narrative that discusses the relationship between picket lines and strike breakers. "Why We're Here"" documents U.S. Steel workers being locked out of their jobs and laid off. They gather in front of the mill to protest the company, and ultimately get their jobs back. People from different unions support these efforts because they believe that union busting will ultimately have a domino effect.

"A Conversation" discusses Northwest regional labor history, specifically the Everett Massacre, which Jack Miller elaborates on extensively. "Northwest Labor History" is a panel discussion that covers the myths and realities behind regional labor stories.

Discusses how management and labor work together to solve problems through a program called Worker Participation. The documentary focuses on New York City sanitation workers and United Steelworkers to illustrate this point, and it explores the relationship between labor and management in those factories where there is unity between the groups.

"Fighting for the Future of their Children" discusses the hardship that farmworkers all over the nation face in making ends meet, and uses specific examples from Washington State to elucidate this point. "Farm Workers in Washington" is a panel discussion that addresses issuse relevant to the unionized members of this group. "Making Your Voice Heard" pertains to a union fight for healthcare benefits in the late 1980s.

"Leading the Way" discusses unionized black workers in South Africa, specifically the confrontation between this group and their apartheid government over the right to collective bargaining. "The American Connection" provides background on the conflict in South Africa, and a panel discussion talks of the interrelatedness of this issue to business and labor affairs in the United States. "The Global Assembly Line" discusses the shipping of American jobs to overseas markets.

Discusses the changing nature of Washington State's economy from the workers point of view, as well as what is happening in the overall fiscal landscape.

"From Bedside to Bargaining Table" is a portrait of nurses organizing around the issues of collective bargaining rights, professionalism, dignity on the job, and better patient care with scarce resources. "Women of Steel" is a documentary about female workers from a steel mill that has since closed down. "Job Security" discusses contracts won by the United Auto Workers, as well as strides made by other active unions.

"Cuts" is a short documentary outlining workers in shingle mills. The film explores the working condition of these workers, the communities they live in, and personal stories and opinions about the jobs they perform in the Puget Sound area of Washington State. "Together We Have Come Far" is a portrait of railroad labor over the past century. "Right to Know" informs viewers of proper labeling procedures concerning potentially hazardous materials.

"My Boy Jeremy" focuses on a student at Interlake School, a facility for disabled children in Medical Lake, Washington, that is being threatened with closure. "Unions in the Community" is hosted by Edward Asner and focuses on the efforts of labor unions to combat diabetes. "In Our Hands" focuses on a construction labor dispute in Florida.

"Apprenticeships in Washington" is a panel discussion about various apprenticeships in Washington State. It contains a question and answer session about who qualifies for apprenticeships, the utility they serve in the working world, and how people apply for these various apprenticeships. "Training for Tomorrow" talks of the various training programs put in place by unions to ensure the economic viability of their members.

An episode of the "America Works" series, narrated by John Lithgow. The focus of the episode is on the decline of labor conditions in late twentieth century.

"Songs and Stories of Labor" and "It Could Be a Wonderful World" both feature acoustic guitar-playing musicians performing pro-worker and union songs to groups of people, with labor stories told in between song performances.

"God and Country" is a discussion of the religious right's desire to push religious beliefs and conservatism via the America political system. "The Cost of Money" addresses the fees associated with a culture based on credit.

"I Am a Man" is a narrative that tells the story of a sanitation strike in Memphis, Tenneessee in the late 1960s. "The Hatch Act" looks at federal employees picketing the Hatch Act, a United States federal law whose main provision prohibits certain federal employees from engaging in some forms of political activity. The program includes hearings before the State Senate in which union members relate their frustrations with the Hatch Act and call for reform.

"Child Care in America" and "Child Care Challenge" both look at the difficulties associated with families that have two working parents, and how the unions are working to address these issues.

"The Drug Test Challenge" discusses the subjecting of workers to random searches and drug tests without reasonable suspicion. "Work and Health" addresses the issue of sharing health problems with union representatives in order to get help. "Resurgence" provides various examples of recent union activites to illustrate the union's continued presence in the American workforce.

"Unions and Youth" explains what the organization has to offer to new members of the workforce. "Whither the Maritime Industry" provides a history of the Seafarer's International Union, as well as strategies to keep this organization vital.

The story of how chemical workers who were part of the oil, chemical, and atomic workers union in Louisiana were locked out of the plant where they worked for four years. BASF of Louisiana is specifically mentioned in the film, as the company locked out the OCAF union members because they would not negotiate to take wage rollbacks as well as cuts in health insurance benefits.

"Fast Food Rap" is a performance of a rap song about the inequities of fast food service jobs. "Fast Food Blues Breakers" discusses the United Food and Commercial Workers' support of a youth organization that strives for unity within the fast food service industry. "Here's to the Women" focuses on female performers and topics at the labor-themed music festival in Gold Bar, Washington.

A collection of performances from the festival that takes place in Gold Bar, Washington. The festival itself highlights music's place in the labor movement.

A document of violent police actions against protesters at a Justice for Janitors rally in Century City, California.

A program that discusses technology as it relates to the workforce, specifically how the unions must focus on training to remain relevant in the 1990s.

Special performance of "Hold the Fort," a musical and spoken-word production about the Wobblies and Washington State labor issues of the first two decades of the twentieth century. Performed by Chris and John O'Connor.

Interview with Larry Kenney, the president of the Washington State Labor Council, regarding the subject of politics and labor.

Production segments used in the creation of Washington Works programs.

A series of promotional segments created for the Washington Works program.

Multiple segments from the Washington Works weekly show, with Karen Keiser discussing a range of labor-related topics with guests.

Shop Talk, part 1: Karen Keiser talks with Tom Baker, the head of Boeing's District Lodge 751, regarding the Machinist Union contract negotiations.

Shop Talk, part 2: Karen Keiser talks with Tom Baker, the head of Boeing's District Lodge 751, regarding the Machinist Union contract negotiations.

Shop Talk, part 3: Karen Keiser concludes her talk with Tom Baker, the head of Boeing's District Lodge 751, regarding the Machinist Union contract negotiations.

Karen Keiser discussed the Boeing Machinist Strike with Tom Baker. The primary point of contention in this strike is wage rates.

Pat Stell and Susan Levy talk with Karen Keiser about the issue of abortion and how it affects the labor force.

Karen Keiser conducts a panel discussion with the Asbestos Workers Local in Washington State, with phone-in callers also supplying questions for the dialogue.

A panel discussion, led by Karen Keiser, concerning plant closure and its effects on the labor force.

Karen Keiser leads a discussion pertaining to the unfair and potentially illegal labor practices of Nordstrom.

Jack Daniels leads a discussion about the most recent offers made by Boeing to the striking Machinist union.

A program about problems pertaining to children's rights. Two social workers explain child maltreatment, as well as possible solutions for addressing this issues.

A discussion of the mission of ANEW, or the Apprenticeship and Non-Traditional Employment for Women program. The company seeks to "provide women of all ages, races, and backgrounds with quality training, support services and employment preparation, leading to viable and satisfying non-traditional career pathways which lead to family wage jobs." In this case, "non-traditional" refers to careers in construction and manufacturing trades.

Karen Keiser leads a discussion pertaining to the ongoing dispute between unionized employees and Seafirst Bank. Union leaders are the guests of the show.

Karen Keiser interviews two former Boeing employees, and the topic is health conditions that arose as a result of the conditions at the Boeing facility. In addition, the program features an excerpt of the documentary entitled "Canary Blues," in which workers of Boeing describe how they were adversely affected by chemicals.

A discussion with representatives from the Washington Federation of State Employees about their fight for a collective bargaining bill.

Larry Kenney, the Washington State Labor President, talks with Karen Keiser about various labor issues such as overtime and company lockouts. The show also fields questions from callers pertaining to these topics.

Dewey Brignone leads a panel discussion about the unemployment lockout bill that is currently before Congress.

Karen Keiser leads a panel discusion about on-the-job injuries and workers' compensation.

Jeff Johnson from the WSLC joins Karen Keiser in discussing workers' compensation bills in Olympia, Washington.

Karen Keiser leads a discussion pertaining to unemployment insurance during lockouts. A leader and a member of the United Food and Commercial Workers Union serve as the panel of this discussion.

Tom Baker speaks with Karen Keiser about a new bill that, if passed, will get rid of mandatory overtime.

The President of the Washington State Labor Council, Larry Kenney, talks with Karen Keiser about current labor issues, particularly the legislation that pertains to mandatory overtime.

Karen Keiser discusses the current Greyhound and Eastern Airlines labor strikes.

"Greyhound Update" is a live, call-in update show with a representative from the union that is striking at the Greyhound Bus Company. In the "De Bruijn Interview," the Dutch sociologists discusses the labor experience in both the Netherlands and the United States. She believes that Affirmative Action has greatly helped women in the U.S., and she focuses on America's equity laws as an example for Holland to follow.

Karen Keiser interviews the Committee on Political Education (COPE) director, and airs a video pertaining to various aspects of the labor struggle in the 1980s.

Karen Keiser interviews four different people who work or worked for Nordstrom. Two of the participant's identities are kept secret. They discuss the issues that Nordstrom employees face, and whether it is helpful for them join the union.

Karen Keiser leads a discussion pertaining to contract negotiations, and particularly wage increases, for parking enforcement employees.

Karen Keiser interviews Warren Bovee, who represents the union striking against the Greyhound company. Her second guest speaks on the various social programs supported by the unions over the years.

Richard Womack, the director of the civil rights department of the AFL-CIO, speaks about the importance of civil rights in the labor movement.

Karen Keiser leads a panel discussion about hazardous chemicals in the workplace.

A discussion pertaining to job-related cases of Repetitive Stress Injury and other workplace health issues. A group of journalists from Seattle-area newpapers weigh in on health issues specific to newsrooms. Part one of a two-part program.

A discussion pertaining to job-related cases of Repetitive Stress Injury and other workplace health issues. A group of journalists from Seattle-area newpapers weigh in on health issues specific to newsrooms. The conclusion of a two-part program.

Al Brisbois of Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is interviewed on Washington Works. Discussions pertain to federal and state government policies in relation to OSHA, the current job market, and jobs in the near future (rise in retail and health industry, loss in timber industry) in Washington State.

Thirty-minute segment on Washington State's Basic Health Plan, and health care in general. Interview with Tom Kobler, director of the state's Basic Health Plan, and Leslie Thorpe, assistant director of the state's external affairs program. Topics of discussion include specific health care issues (people without health insurance), unemployment, and state's role in the health care issues.

Multiple people speak at a gathering of Eastern Airlines employees who are on strike in 1989.

Campaign commercials in support of Initiative 412, a measure that would have set a maximum annual interest rate for retail installment contracts at 12%.

A discussion of the origins of the fiscal crisis in Washington State. Residents are asked how this particular economic downturn has affected their lives. Part one of a two-part program.

A discussion of the origins of the fiscal crisis in Washington State. Residents are asked how this particular economic downturn has affected their lives. Part two of a two-part program.

"It's About Time" pertains to metal workers striking in the spring of 1983. Several men are interviewed and the strikers are seen verbally chastising others going into work. "No Fair Olympic" shows a labor gathering of Olympic Hotel employees as they boycott their employer. They are seen demonstrating in the streets of Seattle, Washington because their employer would not rehire union members. "Alive" pertains to mussel farming on Whidbey Island, Washington. The film was presented to Island County Commissioners, and prepared for Penn Cove Sea Farms.

The film is a promotion of the United Way program in western Washington, and it seeks to show the strong connection between the organization and labor unions in the area.

Main topics of the program are the Washington State fiscal crisis, tax-based erosion, and a proposal for a state income tax. Includes views on the state economic situation as voiced by the general public.

The Seattle, Washington festival begins with the music of Shay's Rebellion, a group that draws upon the history of the protest song for their performance. Other labor-focused speakers and performers take the festival's stage over the course of the event.

Interview with a representative from the International Federation of Flight Attendants (IFFA) that serves as an update on the labor issues of TWA's flight attendants after the airing of the Washington Works episode "Grounded!." "Coin Commercial" is a promo for a commemorative medal produced by the Washington State Labor Council for the state centennial.

Content is related to technical aspects of video productions made by the Washington State Labor Council.

"Composites": Interviews with former and current Boeing employees regarding chemicals in the workplace, and the possible illness that have resulted from exposure. "Shanty Cafe": A profile of the Seattle-area restaurant that employs union workers.

Content is related to technical aspects of video productions made by the Washington State Labor Council.

Historical outline of the American labor force, starting in the late 19th century. Safety and health problems in the workplace and work-related deaths and injuries are the main concerns of the episode.

A short promotional piece for the Washington State Labor Council, highlighting the organization's efforts to support labor over the past twenty-five years.

A short promotional piece for the Washington State Labor Council, highlighting the organization's efforts to support labor over the past twenty-five years.

Video footage of Pacific Northwest mountains and beaches, as well as images of area Native American tribes.

"Drug Testing and Your Job" is a live episode of "Shoptalk," a local Seattle show. A panel discussion with labor and management leaders is conducted with a studio audience, and the benefits and pitfalls of drug testing are the topics. "Carpal Tunnel: Injury or Illness," another live episode of "Shoptalk," is a panel discussion about carpal tunnel that includes an occupational therapist from the Washington Department of Labor and Industry and the director of Project Help.

Stories from three employees affected by a lockout at Lockheed, each interviewed ten weeks into the event. The overall economic situation, labor politics, the origins of the lockout, and unfavorable contract renewals are all discussed.

The first part of a five-part videotaped meeting of WSLC members, in which issues and strategies of the upcoming calendar year are discussed.

The second part of a five-part videotaped meeting of WSLC members, in which the issues and strategies of the upcoming calendar year are discussed.

The third part of a five-part videotaped meeting of WSLC members, in which the issues and strategies of the upcoming calendar year are discussed.

The fourth part of a five-part videotaped meeting of WSLC members, in which the issues and strategies of the upcoming calendar year are discussed.

The fifth part of a five-part videotaped meeting of WSLC members, in which the issues and strategies of the upcoming calendar year are discussed.

Rick Bender of the Washington State Labor Council appears on a Seattle-area television show to discuss political campaign ads that disparage labor organizations.

Rick Bender of the WSLC addresses people gathering together to collect signatures for I-688, an initiative that would raise the minimum wage in Washington State. The video shows people bringing in signature sheets. Sound clips from a union meeting are gathered.

Rick Bender of the Washington State Labor Council addresses people gathering to collect signatures for I-688, a measure that increased the minimum wage in Washington State. The video shows people bringing in signature sheets.

Footage of Greyhound workers striking at the Greyhound station in downtown Seattle, Washington.

An anti-North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) rally in downtown Seattle, with speakers, musicians, and various other labor community activities. Part one of a three-part program.

An anti-North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) rally in downtown Seattle, with speakers, musicians, and various other labor community activities. Part two of a three-part program.

An anti-North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) rally in downtown Seattle, with speakers, musicians, and various other labor community activities. Part three of a three-part program.

A document of the Boeing Machinist Strike of 1995. Speeches from local and national labor leaders are included, as are discussions involving rank and file union members. Part one of a four-part program.

A document of the Boeing Machinist Strike of 1995. Speeches from local and national labor leaders are included, as are discussions involving rank and file union members. Part two of a four-part program.

A document of the Boeing Machinist Strike of 1995. Speeches from local and national labor leaders are included, as are discussions involving rank and file union members. Part three of a four-part program.

A document of the Boeing Machinist Strike of 1995. Speeches from local and national labor leaders are included, as are discussions involving rank and file union members. Part four of a four-part program..

Rick Bender of the Washington State Labor Council addresses people gathering to collect signatures for I-688, a measure that increased the minimum wage in Washington State. The video shows people carrying in signature sheets. Part one of a two-part program.

Rick Bender of the Washington State Labor Council addresses people gathering to collect signatures for I-688, a measure that increased the minimum wage in Washington State. The video shows people carrying in signature sheets. Part two of a two-part program.

A video program documenting the AFL-CIO activities during the WTO protests in Seattle in 1999. Pro-labor speeches, musical acts, and various others take the stage at the large rally. Part one of a two-part program.

A video program documenting the AFL-CIO activities during the WTO protests in Seattle in 1999. Pro-labor speeches, musical acts, and various others take the stage at the large rally. Part two of a two-part program.

Norm Dicks speaks at a conference that is intended to suggest reforms and improvements to the Hatch Act. This is the first part of a three-part program.

Extended footage of the Hatch Act reform committee. A speaker explains that the Hatch Act must be reformed to reclaim basic constitutional rights for federal workers. The speaker also describes the navy gag order that workers have demosntrated while at a caucus. This is the second part of a three-part program.

A congressman speaks about the necessity of the Hatch Act on the basis that it allows people to keep their rights, as well as keeping the government in check. This is the final part of a three-part program.

A Washington State Labor Council conference, featuring Elaine Bernard from the Harvard Law School as the key speaker. Part one of a three-part program.

A Washington State Labor Council conference, featuring Elaine Bernard from the Harvard Law School as the key speaker. Part two of a three-part program.

A Washington State Labor Council conference, featuring Elaine Bernard from the Harvard Law School as the key speaker. Part three of a three-part program.

Produced by the U.S. Department of Labor, this is a brief talk by Robert Reich, Secretary of Labor under President Bill Clinton. The program was recorded in Washington, D.C. and shown to attendees of the 1995 WSLC Convention. The speech is followed by a meeting of the United Pilots Strike Preparedness Committee.

The 1995 WSLC convention, held in Tacoma, Washington. Father John Boonstra blesses the convention. Speakers include: John Thompson (Pierce County Labor Council); Harold Moss (Mayor of Tacoma); Al Link (WSLC Secretary-Treasurer); Dan Bertrand (WSLC Chair, Rules and Order Committee); Rick Bender (WSLC President); William Lucy (AFSCME Secretary-Treasurer).

The 1995 WSLC convention, held in Tacoma, Washington. Senator Patty Murray of Washington State addresses convention attendees.

The 1995 WSLC convention, held in Tacoma, Washington. Speakers include: Joe Ogden (WSLC), Rick Bender (President, WSLC), Mike Lowry (former Governor, Washington State); Elaine Bernard (Trade Union Program, Harvard University). Part one of a three-part program.

The 1995 WSLC convention, held in Tacoma, Washington. Mark Brown, Vernon Stoner, Richard Womack, and George Kourpias are among the presenters discussing pertinent labor issues. Part two of a three-part program.

The 1995 WSLC convention, held in Tacoma, Washington. Jeff Johnson, Rosalinda Gion, and representatives of organized farm labor are among the presenters discussing pertinent labor issues. Part three of a three-part program.

The 1997 WSLC convention, held in Wenatchee, Washington. John Sweeney, president of the AFL-CIO, addresses the conference attendees. Part one of a two-part program.

The 1997 WSLC convention, held in Wenatchee, Washington. John Sweeney, president of the AFL-CIO, addresses the conference attendees. Part two of a two-part program.

The 1997 WSLC convention, held in Wenatchee, Washington. Local speakers on the subject talk about the receiving education grants in Washington State for the purpose of strenthening the qualifications of the regional labor force.

The 1997 WSLC convention, held in Wenatchee, Washington. Speakers include: Bob Abbott (President, North Central WSLC); Steve Powers (Vice President, Wenatchee WSLC); Ron Sims (King County Executive); Mike Lowry (former Washington State Governon); Pat Stell (U.S. Department of Labor); Robbie Stern (WSLC); Elaine Bernard (Trade Union Program, Harvard University). Part one of a two-part program.

The 1997 WSLC convention, held in Wenatchee, Washington. Speakers include: Henry Nicholas (Internatinoal V.P., AFSCME); Aletha Burton-Lute (WSLC); Jeff Johnson (WSLC); Tony Lee (Fremont Public Association); Robbie Stern (WSLC). Part two of a two-part program.

The 1997 WSLC convention, held in Wenatchee, Washington. Speakers include: Rick Bender (President, WSLC); Gary Locke (Washington State Governor); Marv WIlliams (former WSLC President); Larry Kenney (former WSLC President).

The 1997 WSLC convention, held in Wenatchee, Washington. A panel of Washington State journeymen tradespeople discuss the public perception of economic prosperity as it compares with the realities of the working class in America.

The 1997 WSLC convention, held in Wenatchee, Washington. Speakers include: Nancy Holland Young (Executive Director, King County Labor Agency); Bill Cunningham (Executive Director, United Way); Henry Nicholas (International V.P., AFSCME).

The 1997 WSLC convention, held in Wenatchee, Washington. Speakers include: Carver Gayton (Director, Department of Employment Security); Bill Holyater (National Council of Senior Citizens); Gary Moore (Director, Department of Labor and Industries); Elaine Bernard (Harvard University).

The 1998 WSLC convention, held in Spokane, Washington. Rick Bender, Al Link, and other leaders of the Washington State labor movement open the convention. A group of union organizers from around the state share their success stories.

The 1998 WSLC convention, held in Spokane, Washington. Rick Bender introduces Maxine Waters (U.S. Representative, California) as a keynote speaker of the conference.

The 1998 WSLC convention, held in Spokane, Washington. Gary Locke, Washington State Governor, addresses the convention attendees.

The 1998 WSLC convention, held in Spokane, Washington. Nanch Riche, the Executive Vice President of the Canadian Labor Congress, addresses the convention attendees.

The 1998 WSLC convention, held in Spokane, Washington. Richard Trumka, President of the AFL-CIO, addresses the convention attendees.

The 1998 WSLC convention, held in Spokane, Washington. Speakers include: Brad Lyons (Candidate, Congress, 5th District); Ken DeBay (Working for America Institute); Gary Moore (Director, Department of Labor and Industries).

The 1998 WSLC convention, held in Spokane, Washington. Speakers include: David Smith (Director of Public Policy, AFL-CIO); Tim Wise (author and essayist). Part one of a two-part series.

The 1998 WSLC convention, held in Spokane, Washington. Speakers include: Tim Wise (author and essayist); Carver Gayton (Director, Department of Employment Security). Part two of a two-part series

A documentary that tracks the lives of American miners. While some of the older interview subjects view mining as lifelong profession, many of the younger generation see it as only a temporary source of income.

30-second promotional for a CableLINE tv series that outlines workers' issues and concerns.

The "America Works" opening, repeated several times. The introduction shows the United States in a grid layout, with "America Works" written above.

A series of television spots that address labor and working class issues, such as wage inequality and the high cost of health care.

Outlines the 1985 AFL-CIO Convention. Discusses the various problems facing American workers, and explores the ways in which unions address these issues. Civil rights in the workforce, equality of the sexes, and political influence are among the topics discussed.

Outtakes of airport runway activity, as well as labor organization meetings.

Brief introduction by Lane Kirkland, AFL-CIO President, followed by a speech by Nelson Mandela to members of the AFL-CIO and a post-talk meeting.

News report on law increasing the minimum wage ($3.35 to $3.80). Also includes specific details on the law regarding teenage workers' training wage and restrictions for employers (additional notes for film report and B-roll included).

Discusses the AFL-CIO plan that offers assistance to union members with mortgages.

The opening credits for "Shoptalk," a program produced by the Labor Institute for Public Affairs.

The program begins with suggested lines for a news anchor to introduce the report in the video. Larry Pintak then reports about how the AFL-CIO has supported an initiative for national health care reform.

Technology's influence on the workforce, positive and negative (especially the shift towards digital technologies in the late 1980s and early 1990s), is the main topic of discussion on this episode of America Works.

"Molder's Magic Chef Strike" outlines a Molders' Union strike against Magic Chef, a stove manufacturing company based in Tennessee that has antagonized labor through union busting tactics and the inability to negotiate contract renewals. "A Voice for Labor" discusses the creation of LIPA within the AFL-CIO organization in 1981 for the purpose of establishing a presence in technology professions.

"We Will Be Heard" compiles images from the first three Solidarity Day events, and discusses the importance of these gatherings to the labor movemnt as a whole. "Solidarity Day III Summary" is a short document of the events that took place on Solidarity Day in 1983. "Labor's Endorsement Process" discusses the ways in which labor organiations mobilize to encourage large voter turnouts within their communities.

Short video on how women make less money than men do, and the woman labor force has risen significantly since the 1960s. There is another short video that analyzes how some families struggle to support themselves because the minimum wage is too low compared to costs of living.

"Thomas Donahue" is an interview with the Secretary-Treasurer of the AFL-CIO, the topic of discussion being robotics and automation in the workplace. "AFSCME" discusses the effect that persistent use of video display terminals (VDTs) has on the overall health of office workers."Microelectronics" explores the ramifications of technological advancements on the labor landscape.

"CLUW" discusses the Coalition of Labor Union Women and its 1974 origins, as well as the advancements that have been made during the first ten years of the organization's existence.

"The Valley of the Tennessee" is a film showing the hardships of agriculture before the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) came in and built dams to help prevent the problems of flooding, erosion, and poor irrigation.

A mid-20th century film about the town of Chester, Pennsylvania. The narrator of the video is a worker in a factory that produces train parts. He helps organize a blood donation drive through his union and also goes to classes offered by his union.

A documentary made for the Amalgamated Clothing Workers of America (ACWA) in 1964. The union was formed in the early 1900s by immigrant workers — Jewish, Italian, and Eastern European laborers, among others. The movie documents their early efforts to win a union, the events of the Depression, the New Deal, and World War II. It ends with the 1963 civil rights march on Washington, linking the struggles of the union with those of the civil rights movements.

An overview of the Committee on Political Education (COPE), an organization that seeks to politicize union members across all trades. Actor Ned Beatty narrates the production.

Describes the background, purpose, and activities of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Unhealthy and unsafe working conditions are addressed, as are the efforts to regulate and enhance workplace safety for employees.

Narration and images tell the story of the first one hundred years of the labor movement.

"Knock on Wood" is a labor-inspired musical set in Chicago, Illinois. The story begins with the character Peter J. McGuire as he narrates the history of the carpenter's union that was formed in Chicago. Part one of a two-part program.

"Knock on Wood" is a labor-inspired musical set in Chicago, Illinois. As the story continues, families of carpenter's union must deal with an impending strike. Part two of a two-part program.

A program that discusses the issue of pay equity through monologues and panel discussions.

A brief outline of the pro-worker activities being performed by the labor councils of San Diego and Imperial Counties.

A program that discusses the problems of the mentally disabled homeless population in America's urban areas.

A series of short public service announcements made with the purpose of combatting drug use. The campaign, titled Rock Against Drugs (or R.A.D.), utilizes the talent of several notable musicians of the era.

Interviews with sheriffs, guards, and other prison system workers about the issues facing prison management.

Various promotional television spots for the "Union Yes" campaign, featuring both celebrity endorsements and workplace re-enactments.

The video contains images and interviews pertaining to workers who died on the job. Fellow workers share the stories of those killed at their places of employment.

The film begins with people being served food in a diner. When one of the waitresses, Jane, finishes her shift, the owner of the diner asks her to work a double shift. Jane declines, and leaves to pick up her son from school. The next day, Jane's boss tells her not to get ready for work because she is on unpaid vacation.

Produced by the National Association of Letter Carriers AFL-CIO. A brief promo called "You Are America" is followed by a special on the Anson Jones 14, a group of letter carriers at the Anson Jones Post Office in Houston, Texas, who went on strike, were sued by the USPS, and then fought for reinstatement. "95 Years of Struggle and Service" is about the history of the National Association of Letter Carriers.

A document of the second Solidarity Day march, when more than 350,000 union members marched in Washington D.C. to demand workplace fairness and health care reform.

A document of the second Solidarity Day march, when more than 350,000 union members marched in Washington D.C. to demand workplace fairness and health care reform. While the subject is the same, this production differs from "Solidarity Day II."

A program that discusses the importance of joining together to lobby for union issues at the state and local level.