At Labor Notes 2024, the largest gathering of labor activists in the United States, the message was clear: the labor movement is not backing down. Despite facing challenges and attacks from all sides, the labor movement showed its unwavering commitment to militancy, solidarity with Palestine, and unity among its members.

The conference, held in Chicago, brought together thousands of union members, organizers, and activists from various industries and backgrounds. The energy and determination in the air were palpable as attendees shared their struggles, victories, and strategies for building a stronger labor movement.

One of the most inspiring moments of the conference was when a group of pro-Palestine protesters disrupted a panel discussion featuring a representative from the Israeli government. The protesters, many of whom were members of labor unions, stood in solidarity with the Palestinian people and demanded an end to the occupation and oppression.

As the protesters chanted and held up signs, a group of police officers attempted to arrest them. But what happened next was a powerful display of solidarity and unity within the labor movement. Union members from different organizations and backgrounds came together to form a human chain around the protesters, protecting them from the police and showing that they will not be divided.

The scene was a powerful reminder that the labor movement is not just about fighting for better wages and working conditions, but also about standing up for justice and human rights. As one protester stated, “We cannot be silent while our brothers and sisters in Palestine are suffering. We stand with them in their struggle for freedom and dignity.”

This act of solidarity was just one example of the militancy that was on display at Labor Notes 2024. Throughout the conference, there were workshops and discussions on organizing tactics, strike strategies, and building worker power. The message was clear: the labor movement is not afraid to take bold and militant action to fight for the rights of workers.

But the conference also highlighted the challenges and attacks that the labor movement is facing. From anti-union legislation to attacks on collective bargaining rights, the labor movement is under constant threat. However, the attendees at Labor Notes 2024 were determined to not let these challenges defeat them.

In one workshop, union leaders shared their experiences of successfully fighting back against anti-union legislation in their states. They emphasized the importance of building strong relationships with community organizations and engaging in grassroots organizing to mobilize their members and the public.

Another workshop focused on the importance of international solidarity and the role of the labor movement in supporting workers around the world. The speakers highlighted the struggles of workers in countries like Colombia, where union leaders are routinely targeted and killed for their activism. They stressed the need for the labor movement to stand in solidarity with these workers and fight for their rights.

The conference also addressed the issue of unity within the labor movement. In recent years, there have been divisions and conflicts between different unions, which have weakened the overall strength of the movement. But at Labor Notes 2024, there was a strong sense of unity and solidarity among attendees.

Union leaders and members from different organizations came together to share their experiences and learn from each other. They recognized that in order to build a stronger labor movement, they must stand together and support each other’s struggles.

As the conference came to a close, the message was clear: the labor movement is not backing down. Despite facing challenges and attacks, the attendees at Labor Notes 2024 showed that they are committed to militancy, solidarity with Palestine, and unity among their members.

The events at the conference were a powerful reminder that the labor movement is not just about fighting for better wages and working conditions, but also about standing up for justice and human rights. The labor movement will continue to fight for the rights of workers, both at home and abroad, and will not be divided or silenced. As one attendee put it, “We are stronger when we stand together, and we will not be defeated.”