Throughout the pandemic, workers in the US have been re-assessing their jobs (think: hours, wages, benefits, and treatment). It’s led to a boost in the number of workers trying to join labor unions so that they can improve job conditions through collective bargaining. That includes Starbucks staff. In August, employees at three Buffalo-area stores said ‘it’s time to go Grande.’ And filed a petition with regulators to unionize – citing things like years of understaffing, poor training, and faulty equipment. After a month of mail-in voting, the results are in.
*Sips cappuccino.* Go on.
Out of the three stores, one location voted to unionize (hi, Elmwood Ave Starbucks). Meaning, it could soon be the first out of nearly 9,000 Starbucks stores nationwide to join a labor union. And it may be the shot of espresso other locations need to jump onboard. Currently, there are three more Starbucks locations in Buffalo, NY, and one in Mesa, AZ, that have petitions to join a labor union. Elmwood Ave workers applauded the win, saying it’ll bring them to the negotiating table for things like wage increases and benefits. But while the vote passed, that doesn’t mean it’s over.
Re-fill me in, please.
The union vote still has to be certified – something that could take a week. And Starbucks isn’t exactly thrilled. The CEO has said ‘but you’ve got amazing benefits.’ (Think: paid family leave, free college tuition). And apparently argued it prefers to work directly with its workers. But Buffalo workers say they want to be able to weigh in on decisions. And accused the company of trying to undermine their efforts. Starbucks said that no matter the outcome it would “continue to stay true” to its mission and values. And the company does have a history of following orders (see: Victoria, Canada).
theSkimm
When the pandemic shut everything down, service workers were there to prep and deliver our goods. It came at the risk of COVID-19 exposure and impatient customers. Now – amid rising inflation, labor shortages, and a tangled supply chain – more employees are fighting tohave a greater say about what happens in the workplace.
PS: Here's your explainer on labor unions and COVID-19's impact on them.
And Also...This
Who people are talking about…
Jussie Smollett. Yesterday, a jury convicted the former “Empire” actor on five of six disorderly conduct charges. In 2019, Smollett claimed he was the victim of a hate crime in Chicago – saying two people yelled racist and homophobic statements, beat him, and put a noose around his neck. But authorities later determined the actor staged the attack. Fast forward to last week and Smollett’s trial got underway. Two brothers testified that the actor paid them to carry out the fake attack. But Smollett maintained “there was no hoax.” After more than nine hours of deliberations, the jury found him guilty on the majority of the charges. But acquitted him on the sixth count of lying to a detective.
Not over: A disorderly conduct charge carries a sentence of up to three years in prison. TBD on a sentencing hearing. Smollett’s lawyer plans to appeal.
Who’s seen the light…
Canada. Earlier this week, it approved legislation that would end conversion therapy – the discredited practice of trying to change a person's sexual orientation or gender identity. Canada's been trying to make it illegal since last year. But has failed twice. Now, the law – which had unanimous support and goes into effect next month – ends things like behavioral therapy and medical treatments. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau applauded the decision, saying Canada will “always stand up” for LGBTQ+ rights.
Zooming out: Other countries – including Malta, Germany, and Albania – have outlawed the practice. And France could be next. Meanwhile, a majority of US states still allow it.
New Zealand. Yesterday, the island country said it wants to outlaw smoking for future generations. By gradually raising the age limit to buy cigarettes. About 13% of New Zealand adults are smokers. But with the proposed law, they hope to bring that down to 5% by 2025. The gov will reportedly provide support to help smokers quit.
The FDA. Yesterday, it said Pfizer's third dose is now available for everyone 16+. And granted it emergency use authorization. Now, teens who’ve gotten both doses of Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine can get their booster after six months. It comes a day after Pfizer saidearly lab data suggestsa third dose could be effective against the highly-mutated omicron variant.
...Oh and speaking of the FDA, it also authorized the first injectable antibody cocktail to treat COVID-19.
Who could be getting their ‘I Voted’ sticker…
About 800,000 New Yorkers. Yesterday, NYC’s city council passed a bill that would allow non-US citizens to vote in local elections. Under the new rule, those who have lived in NYC for at least 30 days and are green card holders or have a work permit can vote in NYC elections starting in 2023. Supporters applauded the decision, saying immigrants have a right to be represented. But Republicans are pointing to the state constitution, adding that only "citizens" can vote and vowing to take legal action. NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio (D) says he won't veto the move.
When all your friends are talking about inflation…
The best way to spread holiday cheer is singing loud for all to hear (obvs). But giving good gifts is a close second. Emphasis on the “good.” Luckily, Everlane has made-to-last presents for anyone dreaming of a more ethical future. And they give new customers 10% off. Here are a few of our faves:
Looking to up your photo game? Try shooting during golden hour. Aka right after sunrise or just before sunset when light is soft and flattering. Then, hit Walmart Photo. Because they can help you add meaningful decor to your own home or gift some to family and friends. We’re loving their…
High-quality 4x6 prints. That’s right. Each one is only nine cents. Every day. No matter how many you order. Oh, and they’re ready in an hour.
16x20 canvases. They'll love the new wall art. And you’ll love that it’s ready the same day you order it at your local Walmart store.
We're not crying, you are. Gorman first tugged on our heartstrings back in January at the presidential inauguration (oh, how time flies). And now, finally, you can experience more of her incredible poems, all in one place. Her collection covers a wide variety of topics — from the climate crisis to the pandemic — and packs huge emotional punches along the way. Tissues optional. Introspection required.
Skimm Picks
Here are today’s recs to help you live a smarter life…
1. An easy trick to help you save — and spend — your money wisely. Pro tip: Don’t keep all your cash in one basket. Our new video, created with Fidelity, breaks down why separate accounts are the way to go. Check it out.*
2. Something brightening your skin will L-O-V-E. Bring back your Hot Girl Summer glow with this serum. It’s got Vitamin C to reduce the appearance of dark spots. And antioxidants to help prevent new ones. Pro tip: Use code SKIMM20 for 20% off your first order.*
3.Luxe sleepwear the internet’s obsessing over. Give the gift of cozy with this brand’s temp-regulating, sustainably made pajamas. Robe and slipper sock add-ons encouraged. Psst...Skimm’rs get 15% off with code SKIMM15. Order by tomorrow night for free standard shipping.*
4. How to get free bacon delivered to your door. Full stop. This brand sends its members quality meats and wild-caught seafood. Sign up now to get up to $100 off. Plus a free pack of bacon with every box for the lifetime of your membership.*
5. A personalized roadmap to guide you on your wellness journey. Sans restrictions. Noom uses behavior change psych to help you crush your health goals. In ways that make sense for you and your lifestyle. Plus, Skimm’rs can try it free for 14 days. Jump in.*
6. A new fantasy show to obsess over.Prime Video’s “The Wheel of Time” follows five men and women led by Rosamund Pike on an epic journey to save the fate of humanity. NBD. PS: It’s based on a best-selling Hugo Award-nominated series. Press play.*
We like to celebrate the wins, big and small. Let us know how your friends, neighbors, coworkers (and yes, even you) are making career moves, checking off goals, or making an impact in the community.
Class is in session...Jennifer O (VA). She’s an elementary school teacher who wrote a book for other educators on student-led conversations. Read up.
Always blooming...Eleanor L (VA). She founded The Simple Sunflower, a nonprofit organization that regifts fresh flowers from local weddings and events to hospitalized patients. Take your pick.
(Some) Birthdays...Katherine Haves Malitzky (NY), Elizabeth Gregory (NJ), Taylor McCall-Mazza (CT), Cidnye Weimer (OH), Carrie Johnson (PA), Elizabeth Spencer (GA), Tammy Renzi (CA), Carol Harper (OH), Elizabeth Gregory (NJ), Mary Timmons-Schneider (GA), Kathryn Detmer (IL), Alyssa Clements (NJ), Katelyn Beer (CA), Francesca Tossona (PA), Jing Qu (CA), Aiden Rogr (VA)
*Paging all members of theSkimm. Reach out here for a chance to be featured.
Skimm More
Saying ‘nah’ to the Olympics? Weird flex but okay. This week on “Skimm This,” we break down the upcoming Beijing Olympics, President Biden’s diplomatic boycott, and whether this decision will earn him gold. Check it out.
And if you're looking for other smart ways to spend your time…
Listen to our news podcast "Skimm This" for clarity on the biggest stories of the week.
