NABET-CWAers Use CWA App to Stand Up, Fight Back

NABET-CWA activists from 24 locals, from Boston to Denver, met in Syracuse, N.Y. last weekend for two days of training, movement building and mobilization.

NABET-CWA President Jim Joyce walks through the new CWA App's functions at conference in Syracuse. Right is NABET-CWA Local 42 President Bill Wachenschwanz.

Above and below: About 100 activists turn out for support members of NABET-CWA Local 51211 in their fair contract fight.

And following some hands-on training provided by NABET-CWA President Jim Joyce, activists used the new CWA app to build turnout at a rally supporting members of NABET-CWA Local 51211 at WSYR-TV in Syracuse who are fighting for a fair contract.

Joyce said, "These members engaged in two extensive Movement Building discussions led by me and CWA Civil Rights Director Chris Kennedy. They learned the importance of building coalition partnerships across labor groups, environmental groups, social justice groups, and democracy reform groups."

Joyce added, "Our activists put the movement building lessons to work immediately by utilizing our great new tool, the CWA App. Each attendee downloaded the app to promote our rally on Saturday in support of NABET-CWA members working at WSYR-TV in Syracuse. They learned how to use this tool to promote our issues and to maximize turnout, as well as how to upload pictures of this event after they 'checked in.'"

About 100 supporters from NABET-CWA, CWA Locals, IBEW, SEIU, local firehouses and the Central New York Area Labor Federation joined the rally and informational picketing.

WSYR is owned by Nexstar Broadcasting. While company profits are soaring, management opened bargaining with 60 proposals all demanding cuts.

Activists now are looking to use the CWA App for future events and rallies, possibly at the New York State Fair, where WSYR-TV is a big sponsor.

Watch a video from the action here.