Writing Locally

(Metropolitan Washington Council, AFL-CIO)

 “Continue hounding unions for news items,” wrote one Union City reader in our recent bi-annual reader survey. “We don't always remember to share our struggles and victories.” The daily publication – “useful info, easy to read, colorful and attractive!” according to one reader -- continues to be highly popular with the readership of more than 12,000 activists, who say they depend on it for their news about the local labor movement. Indeed, 74% say they always read Union City, and 58% find the information “very useful.” “This is the best labor info tool anyplace,” wrote one reader. “Excellent. I always share Union City with others across the country; my favorite is local labor news.” Local labor news was the top choice of 69% of readers, with Labor History close behind at 63%; national labor news was the favorite of 47%, with 45% voting for the Hiring Hall Edition – “Union City helped me help two progressive young women find organizing jobs in the labor movement,” said one reader, “What could be more useful than that!” -- and 33% for the calendar. Profiles drew a solid 16% rating and the Labor Quote Contest 9%. “The reporting has continued to improve, photos have gotten better and the calendar remains a great source for upcoming labor and community events,” said another reader. “Keep up the good work!” Added another, “I am really proud that our central labor council is so effective in communicating with union members and allies.” Nearly 350 readers participated in the survey, a new record, and nearly 200 responded with comments and suggestions for improvements, which are now under review (although not the suggestion that “If you send it out 2 times a day it would be twice as good”). Survey prize-winners – drawn at random from those completing the survey – are Laurent Ross, Carrie Biggs-Adams and Lara Manzione.