Introduction to CWA
The Communication Workers of America is a significant labor union in the U.S., representing about 700,000 workers. Founded in 1947, CWA has been a formidable force in advocating for the rights and welfare of workers in the communication and information sectors, among others.
Membership Base
Communication Workers of America CWA’s membership is diverse, encompassing a wide range of professionals. These include telephone operators, journalists, customer service representatives, government workers, and even airline employees. This diversity reflects the evolving nature of communication and information industries.
Communications Workers of America (CWA)
The Communications Workers of America (CWA) is an international labor union representing workers in a variety of industries, including telecommunications, airline, news media, manufacturing, software engineers, and public service. CWA is an outspoken advocate for all workers, defending their right to control their workplace and their lives. This position is with the headquarters component of CWA’s Legal Department in Washington, D.C.
At CWA, we believe that organizing for bargaining power strengthens our communities by providing workers with the tools to remove systemic barriers that affect the fair and just treatment of working people. CWA works to create a society where members of all races, cultures, religions, sexual orientations, genders, gender identities, disabilities, ages, and nationalities feel welcomed, respected, and heard, and it is for this reason that we seek applications from a diverse pool of candidates, especially from members of historically marginalized communities.
CWA is seeking law clerks for its Washington, D.C. office. The work of a law clerk primarily involves labor and employment law questions but can involve other topics that may arise from time to time in a large nonprofit organization. Law clerks are encouraged to work with any of the five attorneys in the D.C. office on items such as arbitration preparation, writing briefs during litigation, and drafting memos on discrete questions of law. Past clerks have expressed appreciation for the warm, collegial atmosphere in the department.
Requirements Include: CWA is seeking law clerks with strong research and writing skills and a passion for defending workers’ rights. Law students outside of the D.C. area seeking to do a remote clerkship will also be considered. CWA prefers to hire law clerks who have taken labor law classes or have experience working with labor unions. Demonstrated interest and commitment to the labor movement is an important qualification.
Applications Must Include: Applicants for this position should submit a cover letter, resume, writing sample.
Salary for the Position:$24 per hour, 40 hours per week
Core Objectives
The CWA focuses on several key objectives
- Negotiating Fair Wages and Benefits: Securing competitive salaries and benefits for its members.
- Improving Working Conditions: Ensuring safe and favorable working environments.
- Advocating for Workers’ Rights: Championing the rights of workers, including the right to organize and bargain collectively.
- Political Advocacy: Engaging in political advocacy to influence policies that affect its members.
Collective Bargaining
One of CWA’s primary roles is collective bargaining. Through negotiations with employers, CWA seeks to establish fair labor contracts that address wages, work hours, job security, health benefits, and other critical employment issues.
Training and Education
Communication Workers of America Recognizing the importance of skill development, CWA invests in training and educational programs. These initiatives aim to enhance the professional skills of its members, keeping them competitive in rapidly changing industries.
Community and Political Engagement
Beyond workplace issues, CWA is actively involved in community and political matters. It advocates for policies that promote social justice, economic fairness, and democratic principles.
Challenges and Adaptation
In the face of globalization and technological changes, CWA faces various challenges. The union continually adapts its strategies to represent and protect its members effectively in a dynamic economic landscape.
