Illinois State AFL-CIO

Brandi Johnson, a senior from Lewistown Community High School, is the newest member of our Illinois labor movement. Brandi reminds us that there are various pathways to financial security and a fulfilling career beyond college. After deciding she wanted a hands on career, Brandi signed a commitment to join IUPAT District Council 30’s Apprenticeship Program and Local 157.

We’re excited to see what's next for Brandi!

Most of us have seen digital screens replacing printed price tags in grocery stores.

Retailers say electronic shelf labels (ESLs) improve pricing accuracy and make updates more efficient for employees.

What they don’t talk about is how this technology enables “surveillance pricing” — using consumer data, demographics, and shopping behavior to influence prices in real time.

That same carton of milk could cost $3.50 on the North Side of Chicago, but $5.00 across town at the exact same store and at the exact same time.

Same product. Same chain. Different neighborhood. Price gauging brought to you by surveillance pricing.

https://civileats.com/2026/05/19/union-seeks-ban-on-surveillance-pricing-at-grocery-stores/

REI kicked off their Anniversary Sale on Sunday and the workers are asking customers to not cross the picket line from now until 5/25

Workers are feeling stronger than ever because of all the support they've seen from co-op members and the rest of our labor community. Now, let’s show REI that we mean business when it comes to getting workers a fair contract.