Tony Johnston, CCCTU Local 1600 | Melissa Cropper, OFT

On today’s episode of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast, we featured Tony Johnston, President of the Cook County College Teachers Union Local 1600, which represents nearly 5,000 members across Chicago and its suburbs. As union negotiations loom, Johnston discussed the organization’s priorities, including the challenges members face due to Chicago’s high cost of living and the city’s residency requirements. He also outlined the union's push for fair telework policies and described the potential impacts of artificial intelligence on education jobs. Johnston further highlighted ongoing efforts to create sustainable community college models and build protections for immigrant workers in a complex environment. Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers, joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to discuss organizing efforts among library workers, recent child labor legislation in Ohio and the union’s endorsement of a gubernatorial candidate.