The Power of Solidarity: Strengthening Public and Private Sector Unions

By Brian Griffin, Executive Secretary-Treasurer | Cincinnati AFL-CIO Central Labor Council

Labor unions are experiencing a resurgence in public support, unlike anything we’ve seen in over 75 years. More and more people recognize the critical role unions play in fighting for fair wages, safe working conditions, and dignity in the workplace. This newfound respect and appreciation are a testament to the tireless efforts of union members who have stood up for what’s right, even when the odds were against them. But as unions gain strength and visibility, our challenges also intensify.

It’s fundamental. If you want to harvest more timber, you must plant more trees. In these times of renewed public backing, it’s more crucial than ever for public and private sector unions to unite and reach out into many new and varied unexplored communities.  Whether you’re a teacher, a nurse, a factory worker, or a construction worker, the truth is clear: our power grows when we stand united. Now is the moment for public and private sector unions to stand firmly united, get each other’s backs, and fight for a better future for all workers.

We might work in different industries, but our struggles are often the same. Whether battling for fair wages, fighting against unsafe working conditions, or standing up to corporate greed, public and private sector unions face the same enemies. Anti-union legislation and corporate interests are working tirelessly to weaken our power. They want to strip away our collective bargaining rights, divide us, and silence our voices. But when we stand together, we’re stronger. By uniting our efforts, we can present a united front that is much harder to break. Imagine the power we hold when public sector unions, with their deep roots in government, join forces with the massive workforce mobilized by private sector unions. Together, we can push back against these attacks and protect the rights we’ve fought to secure.

Most importantly, it’s not just about defending what we have but building something even better. When public and private sector unions collaborate, we can amplify our political influence in ways that can change lives. Consider the fight for a higher minimum wage. Public sector unions uniquely influence local and state governments, while private sector unions can rally workers from all corners of the economy. When we combine our strengths, we create an unstoppable force that can push for policies benefiting everyone—whether you’re a government worker or in a private industry. We can drive real change, ensuring that every worker earns a living wage regardless of where they work.

And this collaboration goes beyond political influence—it’s about raising the bar for all workers. When one union wins a victory, it sets a precedent that others can follow. If public-sector unions secure better healthcare benefits, that achievement can be a powerful tool for private-sector unions’ negotiations. Likewise, advancements in the private sector, like paid family leave, can serve as a benchmark for public sector workers. This isn’t just about incremental gains; it’s about creating a culture of continuous improvement where workers in every sector benefit from each other’s successes.

Labor Unions have a crucial opportunity to invigorate their ranks by reaching out to younger people, women, people of color, the LGBTQIA community, immigrants, and other historically marginalized groups. As the workforce becomes more diverse, unions must actively engage with these communities to stay relevant and effective. By welcoming and amplifying the voices of younger and more diverse workers, unions can bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the table. This inclusive approach not only strengthens the union’s ability to address the needs of all workers but also ensures that the labor movement reflects and champions the diversity of today’s workforce. Embracing this broad spectrum of experiences and identities will help unions build a more equitable and powerful movement for the future.

But more than anything, this is about solidarity—the kind that goes beyond words. It’s about showing up for each other when it counts. When private sector workers go on strike, they need to know that their public sector brothers and sisters have their backs, offering support, lending a hand, and standing in solidarity. And when public sector workers face budget cuts or layoffs, it’s up to private sector unions to rally behind them, ensuring their voices are heard and their struggles recognized.

So here’s the call to action: Let’s make this solidarity real. If you’re in a union, reach out to your counterparts in the other sector. Start a dialogue. Share your struggles and successes. Organize joint campaigns that highlight the common issues we face. Stand up for each other, not just in words but in actions. Because when we fight together, we win together.
In a world where workers’ rights are increasingly under threat, the power of solidarity between public and private sector unions is not just a strategic necessity; it’s a moral imperative. Together, we can build a brighter future for all workers, ensuring that no one is left behind. So, let’s unite, let’s fight, and let’s win—together. Solidarity Forever!