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Vermont's Labor History And Unions Today

In this file photo from 2014, signs are seen in the office of Mike Spillane of IBEW that describe past labor actions. On this "Vermont Edition," we're talking about the state's labor history and unions today.
Steve Zind
/
VPR File
In this file photo from 2014, signs are seen in the office of Mike Spillane of IBEW that describe past labor actions. On this "Vermont Edition," we're talking about the state's labor history and unions today.

Roughly one in 10 employed Vermonters belong to a union, and nearly half of those jobs are in public sectors like government and teaching. The role of organized labor has changed dramatically in recent decades, with union jobs declining in Vermont and nationwide. But organized labor, and how employers have responded to it, has profoundly shaped Vermont's history and culture.

Paul Searls, an author and social sciences associate professor at Lyndon State College, joins Vermont Edition to discuss the influence organized labor has had on Vermont — from the fortunes of industries to the elections of lawmakers — and how labor's decline in Vermont has followed the evolution of its economy.

Also joining the program is Elaine McCrate, a University of Vermont professor of economics and women’s studies, to discuss trends in union membership in Vermont and new ways workers are organizing as traditional industries and unions wane.

Broadcast live on Monday, Oct. 30, 2017 at noon; rebroadcast at 7 p.m.

Jane Lindholm is the host, executive producer and creator of But Why: A Podcast For Curious Kids. In addition to her work on our international kids show, she produces special projects for Vermont Public. Until March 2021, she was host and editor of the award-winning Vermont Public program Vermont Edition.
Matt Smith worked for Vermont Public from 2017 to 2023 as managing editor and senior producer of Vermont Edition.
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