Workers Have the Power

Unions advocate for workers both on and off the job, fighting for better pay, benefits, and working conditions, while also supporting policies that benefit working families at all levels of government. We need to elect leaders who support workers’ rights to organize, negotiate fair contracts, safer workplaces, protect hard-won benefits, and enjoy a dignified retirement.

Democracy only works when citizens hold their elected officials accountable for prioritizing the needs of all, especially workers. How you vote is your decision alone, and informed voting is essential to accountability. That’s why we want every member to know where the candidates stand on issues important to workers and our union (page 18). And after reviewing the facts, Kamala Harris is the clear choice for BAC and all working Americans. Because we know that when we elect candidates who support our union’s priorities, we can collectively shape the future of our workplace and community.

BAC members work hard every day and give back to their community in many ways. We build the infrastructure that supports education, health care, public safety, and civic engagement in our communities. This issue features two outstanding school projects being constructed by the members of BAC Local 1 Washington / Alaska (page 3). These projects exemplify the skills, dedication, and creativity that BAC members deliver on the job every day.

Of course, the apprenticeship programs of BAC are one of the chief ways that BAC provides support for our communities and the next generation (pages 13–14 and 22). BAC also raises the standards for all by organizing those engaged in our work, as BAC Local 3 California recently did (page 12). Whether it is mentoring young apprentices or welcoming newly organized members, BAC is committed to investing its resources to expand the benefits of union membership to all workers engaged in our trade.

Growing the ranks of our union does not come without challenges, though. We need to advance the role of masonry in a changing construction industry by engaging owners, developers, and designers on the multiple benefits of masonry including the building performance qualities of our materials (page 23). There is also an urgent need to engage the public on the benefits of union construction, and the value of the community-sustaining careers that BAC work opportunities provide.

BAC members are living proof of the benefits that union construction represents, and we need elected leaders at all levels who aren’t afraid to say so. BAC respects the right of every member to vote their conscience. Our obligation as leaders of this union is to make clear that the basis for receiving BAC’s support is a candidate’s support for our union. This year, on that score, the choice couldn’t be clearer. Vice President Harris’ career-long support for unions has earned her our support in return.

Stay healthy and stay safe, Brothers and Sisters!