What an appalling, depressing week, eh? Well, here's something happy, via emailed press release:
After two years of organizing, independent homecare providers in Vermont voted overwhelmingly in favor of American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Vermont Homecare United to represent them in collective bargaining with the State of Vermont. With nearly 7,500 eligible voters (about one in every 100 Vermonters), it is the largest union vote and organizing win in the state’s history. In fact, it is the largest organizing win in the nation in 2013. [...]
“I’m so excited! It makes the hard work worthwhile. I walked through ice and snow to talk with other homecare providers like me because I want AFSCME Vermont Homecare United behind us to improve our jobs so we can give the best to those we care for,” said homecare provider Janelle Blake. “Now we can building our union and get our contract.”
Vermont had to first pass a law allowing home care workers the right to unionize.
And more: