Contact: Randie Pearson, rpearson@usw.org, (412) 562-2295
(Pittsburgh, PA) – The USW International Union released the following statement in honor of International Women’s Day, March 8:
“From our inception the USW valued inclusivity. Our union constitution begins: ‘To unite in one organization, regardless of creed, color or nationality, all workmen and working women eligible for membership.’ This was a key tenant of the Steel Workers Organizing Committee (SWOC) founding principles that helped shape our union and still guides the work we do today.
“Through organizing, educating, and legislative and political engagement, the Women of Steel program continues to forge a path of inclusivity for women workers across the United States, Canada, and beyond. Our activists are everyday people who lead committees, serve in local office, raise their families, and fight for their communities.
“This diversity in background and experience gives us strength and empowers us to negotiate contracts that provide justice and fairness to workers.
“The USW’s Women of Steel program is committed to continuing to mentor, educate, and activate our members to empower women and female-identifying workers, and uplift their achievements.”
The USW represents 850,000 workers employed in health care, metals, mining, pulp and paper, rubber, chemicals, glass, auto supply and the energy-producing industries, along with a growing number of workers in public sector, higher education, tech and service occupations.