Last night, the Middlesex/Somerset Central Labor Council, hosted the first of many labor/community grassroots meetings, bringing together local leaders and activists from the labor movement and progressive community groups. This event provided an initial opportunity for like-minded progressive organizations to meet with one another and discuss how we can advance our shared policy goals together. Participants were also fortunate to have the opportunity to speak with the many local elected officials in attendance, who we are counting on to carry the message of working families to the State Legislature and their respective governing bodies.

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Middlesex/Somerset CLC President Tom Tighe stated at the outset of the meeting that, “Whether you are card-carrying union member or not, we as working families all share similar goals including the opportunity to work, earn a decent living, and provide a brighter future for our children and loved ones. Our best shot at achieving these goals is through a collaborative and unified effort with our neighbors and allies throughout the community.”

“The idea of labor/community partnerships is more than just a theory; it is a proven strategy for success, as demonstrated by the Working Families United for New Jersey, Inc. ‘Raise the Wage’ campaign,” stated Working Families United for New Jersey, Inc. Chair Charles Hall, Jr. “This campaign ensured a modest raise for over 400,000 minimum wage and low-income workers in New Jersey, and was made possible by the overwhelming support of over 256 community groups working together to educate the community about the importance increasing the state minimum wage.”

“Working Families United for New Jersey, Inc. is proud to be at the forefront of efforts to build the most comprehensive and effective grassroots movement our state has ever seen,” stated Working Families United for New Jersey, Inc. Executive Director Edward Correa. “This labor/community partnership is yet another important step in building a movement that goes beyond paper, which is real, and will continue to improve the lives of millions of working families across our state.”

To learn about the upcoming campaigns of Working Families United for New Jersey, Inc. or for information on upcoming labor/community meet-and-greets, please CLICK HERE.