The Ohio AFL-CIO held its 34th biennial convention on September 23-24, 2024. During this gathering, delegates passed several resolutions focused on issues like organizing farmworkers and protecting democracy in Ohio. Notably, Resolution 18, titled “Call for Humanity and Civility,” responds to recent racist attacks on Haitian immigrants from the Trump–Vance campaign.
In Springfield, Ohio, numerous bomb threats have targeted hospitals, schools, and businesses following unfounded claims made by former President Trump and J.D. Vance. These claims allege that Haitian immigrants are responsible for violence in the area. The Ohio AFL-CIO condemned these unfounded accusations as a harmful example of white supremacy, asserting that such rhetoric is designed to divide native-born and immigrant workers. The resolution criticizes politicians who create false narratives about immigrants for political gain and highlights the need for civility in discourse.
Labor’s Role in Combating Racism
The Ohio AFL-CIO resolution clarifies that many Haitian immigrants in Springfield are eligible to work, some with temporary protected status and others with permanent legal status. It acknowledges that the city, like others experiencing a population increase, faces challenges such as high demand for healthcare, housing, and education. The resolution advocates for subsidized programs to support immigrant workers and denounces the spread of racist misinformation by politicians. It concludes with a strong commitment to fight for the rights and livelihoods of all working people, regardless of their background.
Key issues such as the housing crisis, inadequate healthcare, and deteriorating infrastructure are affecting all workers. While the capitalist class attempts to blame immigrant workers for these problems, labor movements focus on uniting around shared material concerns. This approach underscores labor’s ongoing commitment to multiracial solidarity in the fight for democracy. The historical formation of the U.S. working class has brought together diverse nationalities, fostering a collective desire to end exploitation and oppression.
Solidarity Among Workers
Labor’s interests align with those of racially and nationally oppressed groups. Both share a common adversary in the capitalist class, and their goals often intersect. Labor unions have been at the forefront of the struggle for democracy and social progress in the U.S. For instance, during the Civil War, British textile workers refused to handle cotton picked by slaves, contributing to the defeat of the Confederacy. Similarly, the industrial union movement of the 1930s fostered unity among Black and white workers, laying the groundwork for the labor-African American alliance that helped dismantle Jim Crow laws and achieve the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
The resolution emphasizes that unions are multiracial organizations united by common interests, particularly in the fight against racism. This collective action strengthens their political and economic power.
Class Consciousness and Internationalism
Class consciousness is the understanding that workers, as the creators of wealth, share common interests that arise from their experiences at work and in their communities. The revitalized labor movement is actively challenging the capitalist class, advocating for fair wages and safe working conditions. Through these struggles, workers develop a clearer understanding of their class interests.
Today’s U.S. labor movement is characterized by its multiracial and multinational makeup, including women and youth. This diverse coalition plays a crucial role in the interconnected struggles for democracy and peace. Labor’s commitment to democracy is evident in its active opposition to a potential second term for Trump. Additionally, the emerging internationalist perspective is showcased in a letter sent to President Biden by several national labor unions. This letter called for an end to military aid to Israel following discussions with Palestinian trade union leaders.
The internationalist aspect of the Ohio AFL-CIO’s resolution is significant. While the Trump administration promotes a brand of white nationalism, labor organizations assert their dedication to advocating for all working people, regardless of race, language, or birthplace.
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