As the party of the revolutionary working class, we recognize the labor movement as the most fundamental instrument of working-class organizing.
In Western Massachusetts, our labor movement is organized primarily through the Western Massachusetts Area Labor Federation (WMALF), the regional affiliate of the AFL-CIO encompassing over 60 union locals. As one of the original leading forces in the formation of the Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO), our Party’s principles of anti-racist, anti-sexist struggle, militant industrial unionism and fighting for working-class unity remain as salient as ever.
The working class is the only force that can consistently struggle for democracy, and our unions stand front and center in that fight. As such, we fight for a stronger political space for workers, contributing to broad coalitions in support of municipal, state and federal legislation to that end. Not only do we fight for living wages and benefits, but we emphasize the political nature of these advances: our victories secure more stable living conditions, disposable income, free time and other preconditions of working-class political expression, and struggle itself is pedagogical.
As a function of fighting for the unity of our class, and in view of sectarian errors made in the early days of the American communist movement, we struggle for the broadest coordination of the working class within the AFL-CIO.
Looking to learn more? Thinking of organizing at work, or feeling frustrated with your union?
- Our club can put you in touch with local union organizers and resources best suited for your workplace. Different types of workplaces are represented by different unions, and some face unique restrictions to organizing under state or federal law. We can help to talk you through your rights and options, whether you’re in a union or not.
- We hold periodic organizing trainings, often in conjunction with unions across the region and state. You can subscribe to our mailing list for details on upcoming events.
- The ALF has regular trainings for stewards, with details available at wmalf.org/calendar.
Western Massachusetts CPUSA 