Statement of New York State AFL-CIO President Mario Cilento on BLS data showing growth in the Union Movement

Albany, NY – I am incredibly proud that here in New York State, union representation has increased to 22.5 percent, with 129,000 more workers now protected by the power of a collective bargaining agreement.

This notable growth, as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, comes at a time when workers’ rights are under relentless attack from a union-busting administration that sides with billionaires over working people. New York is proving once again that solidarity prevails.

Increased union representation not only honors the dignity of work but also strengthens the middle class and shows the true value of being Union Strong.

In New York, we continue to be among the states with the highest union membership rates in the country, and we remain committed to fighting for all working people.