Dozens of area churches, synagogues and temples will participate in this unique opportunity for faith communities, workers, worker advocates and the labor movement to rediscover their common bonds: social justice, equality, the Common Good, dignity and respect of all persons, economic justice, and fair treatment in the workplace. Contact Nikki Lewis at [email protected] to see how your congregation can participate. Click here for details on our local labor calendar. 

Jews United for Justice’s two long-time, dedicated organizers, Monica Kamen and Katie Ashmore, are leaving JUFJ next month for other exciting work. Kamen (at left in photo) will be the new Advocacy Coordinator at the DC Fair Budget Coalition, and Ashmore (right) will be leading a new housing initiative in Montgomery County. “Both brought tremendous passion and skill to their work at JUFJ and helped lead us to victories for Maryland marriage equality, the Maryland DREAM Act, a regional $11.50 minimum wage, and paid sick leave in DC,” says JUFJ. And while JUFJ will miss them both, they’re looking to fill their positions as quickly as possible to continue their important work: check out the job description, share widely, and consider applying.

Just in time for Labor Day, the Community Services Agency has launched its brand new secure on-line donation site. “What better time to support CSA’s programs that help working people than around Labor Day, when we take stock of our struggles and re-invigorate ourselves for the work ahead?” says CSA Executive Director Kathleen McKirchy. “As we know, millions of workers across the country are barely scraping by, struggling to support their families.” That’s mirrored in the metro Washington area, McKirchy says “with more workers than ever calling to get help through the Emergency Assistance Fund.” CSA’s ability to help prevent evictions, foreclosures, utility cut-offs and hunger has been severely hampered by a lack of funds this summer. “This fall as we gear up to hit the picket line, get out the vote, lobby our legislators and mobilize on behalf of working people,  let’s not forget to lend a helping hand to those fellow union members who have fallen upon hard times,” urges McKirchy. “This year, make Labor Day your ‘Solidarity Giving Day’!” Click here to contribute to CSA, labor’s social services agency; look for the “Labor Cares- Labor Shares” fund. “Every dollar makes a huge difference!” McKirchy says. Donations are tax-deductible.

The Metropolitan Council has begun the endorsement process for the Independent At-Large seat on the DC City Council and the Attorney General election in November. Questionnaire responses will be posted on the website by September 4th. The DC COPE will interview candidates the following week. Read Union City for updates.