April 15-May 30th continues to be packed with actions around the country connecting the concerns of workers and the environment by linking up Earth Day to May Day.
Western Massachusetts was one center of such action. The Western Mass Area Labor Federation, Climate Action Now, and the Springfield Climate Justice Coalition teamed up to link events and build solidarity and community across the region. Their calendar of events included twenty items, such as:
Green Energy Jobs in Springfield Clean energy jobs recruitment program to let the community know about new green energy jobs in Springfield. With a low bar for entry and paid training, this is an amazing opportunity for anyone looking for a career change or a job.
Cancel Student Debt to Support Workers Student debt impacts workers of all kinds, from nurses to teachers, custodians to truck drivers, personal care attendants to childcare workers, and many more. On May Day, as we celebrate workers, we demand that all student debt be cancelled.
Voices of Working People’s History A free program of dramatic readings and lots of songs, with emphasis on Western Mass. Voices.
Unionizing 101: A Workshop on Building Power at Your Job What can unions do for you? What is it like to have a union at your job? How do you start a union? What are the basics of organizing a union?
A Just Transition Farm to Table A panel of workers from various industries discuss their frontline work as farmers, grocery workers and line cooks. Hear what they love and hate about their jobs, how they see themselves impacted by a growing climate crisis, and what opportunities and challenges they see for change from their vantage point as a worker.
For more information on the Western Mass Area Labor Federation events: https://sites.google.com/view/earthdaytomayday2024/home