Alabama Arise staff, management, and Board of Directors are excited to announce the launch of the newly formed Arise staff union, Alabama Arise Workers United Communication Workers of America (AAWU-CWA). AAWU-CWA is an affiliate of CWA Local 3908.

“We're honored to be part of an organization that allows people to choose whether or not to unionize,” said Formika Tripp, Arise's southeast Alabama organizer. She said, “We have a safe working environment, but it's reassuring to know that I have job security and a voice as a union representative.”

All eligible Arise staff signed authorization cards to join CWA in November after a short organizing campaign. Arise staff and board leaders unanimously supported voluntary recognition of the union.

“As a parent labor organization, voluntarily recognizing the employee union was an easy choice for Arise,” said Robin Heiden, executive director of Alabama Arise. “As leaders, I believe our greatest accomplishment has been supporting and growing leadership at every level of the organization. I believe that everyone has something to contribute to building a strong and healthy workplace. We are very proud of our staff for taking this step.”

AAWU-CWA selected a negotiating representative and stewards to negotiate an initial bargaining agreement.

“As one of Alabama Arise’s first union stewards, I am honored and energized to help move our members and organization toward more just and democratic relationships,” said Arise. said Mackenzie Barton, development associate at and one of AAWU-CWA's newly elected stewards. “Labor unions are essential to improving and protecting Alabama's workforce. They built the middle class and will rebuild the middle class. We rely on organizations that continue to champion these values ​​at every level. I’m honored to be a part of it.”

Protecting and Empowering Alabama's Workers is Arise's commitment to improving the lives of Alabamians marginalized by poverty and ensuring all people have the resources and opportunities to reach their full potential. Critical to the mission.

“I grew up as a child of union parents, and now I'm able to pass that experience on to my children,” Tripp said.