The Labor Notes Conference is a yearly gathering of labor activists, organizers, and scholars dedicated to strengthening the labor movement. While specific details for the 2025 conference aren't yet available (as of October 26, 2023), we can anticipate a continuation of the event's rich history of fostering crucial discussions and strategizing for the future of work. This post will speculate on potential themes, based on current trends and past conferences, and offer advice on how to prepare for this important event.
Anticipated Themes for the Labor Notes Conference 2025
Predicting the exact topics of the 2025 Labor Notes Conference is impossible, but based on current labor movements and past conference themes, we can reasonably expect discussions to revolve around several key areas:
1. The Fight for a $15 Minimum Wage and Beyond:
The fight for a living wage remains a central issue. Expect sessions addressing the ongoing struggle for a $15 minimum wage, the push for higher wages in specific sectors, and broader discussions about fair compensation and wealth inequality. The conversation will likely extend beyond a simple numerical target, exploring strategies for indexing wages to inflation and cost of living, and tackling systematic issues perpetuating wage stagnation.
2. The Future of Organizing in the Gig Economy and Beyond Traditional Workplaces:
The rise of the gig economy and the increasing prevalence of precarious work present significant challenges to traditional union organizing strategies. The 2025 conference will likely feature workshops and discussions on innovative organizing techniques tailored to these new realities. This includes exploring methods for organizing independent contractors, addressing the challenges of algorithmic management, and strengthening worker power in decentralized workplaces.
3. Climate Change and the Labor Movement:
The urgency of addressing climate change necessitates a robust response from the labor movement. Expect sessions addressing the intersection of environmental justice and workers' rights, exploring strategies for a just transition to a green economy, and discussing the role of unions in advocating for policies that protect both the environment and workers' livelihoods. This includes discussions on green jobs creation and mitigating the impact of climate change on vulnerable workers.
4. Combating Racism, Sexism, and Other Forms of Discrimination in the Workplace:
The Labor Notes Conference consistently addresses the importance of intersectionality and inclusivity within the labor movement. We can anticipate continued discussions on dismantling systemic racism, sexism, homophobia, and other forms of discrimination within workplaces and unions themselves. This includes exploring strategies for building truly representative and equitable unions that champion the rights of all workers.
5. Political Action and Labor's Role in Shaping Public Policy:
The political landscape significantly impacts the labor movement. Expect sessions focusing on strategies for effective political action, advocating for pro-labor legislation, and building stronger relationships with progressive political organizations. This will likely involve discussions about electoral strategies, lobbying efforts, and grassroots mobilization to advance labor's agenda.
Preparing for the Labor Notes Conference 2025
While the specific dates and location will be announced later, you can start preparing now:
- Stay Informed: Follow Labor Notes' website and social media channels for updates on the conference schedule, registration, and other relevant information.
- Network: Connect with other labor activists and organizers online and in your community to share information and coordinate attendance.
- Plan Your Participation: Decide which workshops and sessions you'd like to attend based on your interests and goals. Consider presenting your own work if relevant to the conference themes.
The Labor Notes Conference is a crucial event for anyone invested in the future of the labor movement. By understanding the potential themes and preparing in advance, you can maximize your participation and contribute to building a stronger, more effective, and more just labor movement. Keep an eye out for official announcements regarding the 2025 conference—it’s an event not to be missed!
