The Labor Movement Defends Democracy
For generations, protecting and expanding access to the ballot box has been a core value of the labor movement. The fight for the freedom to vote is deeply connected to the fight for workers’ rights and opportunity, because everyone deserves to have a voice in the decisions being made that impact their families, neighborhoods, and lives.
We know that there is real power in organizing, collective action, and solidarity. Labor unions have been at the forefront of that work for decades by bringing working people together to build stronger workplaces and communities. We also recognize that lasting progress requires political power, and that power is obtained through the ballot box: from electing representatives who are committed to championing working Michiganders, holding elected officials accountable, and building support for pro-worker, people-first policies. Labor knows that by working together, we can shape the future of Michigan.
The Michigan Labor Foundation is doubling down on this longtime commitment to our voting freedoms by launching the Union P.O.W.E.R. program and reaffirming the labor movement’s responsibility to defend democracy and ensure every voter can make their voice heard. We understand that it is important to be involved before, during, and after votes are being cast — not just on Election Day.
We’re committed to sharing information about how to register to vote, update your voter registration, and cast your ballot. But we don’t stop there. We’re defending democracy in any way we can: from coordinating rides to the polls, to organizing election volunteers, and hosting voting rights trainings. With determination and solidarity, we know we can build a future where working people can thrive, where participation is empowered, and where democracy reflects the will of the people.
Labor is a powerful force in Michigan and across the country, and we take this responsibility seriously. As members of the labor movement, we are taking the P.O.W.E.R. pledge to stand up for democracy, and we encourage you to do the same:
Protect: Protecting the vote and ensuring every voter can cast their ballot.
Organize: Organize new labor strongholds led by workers.
Win: Secure wins that determine the future of workers’ rights.
Engage: Engage voters through authentic peer-to-peer contact.
Right Now: Mobilize Right Now. Action today creates victory tomorrow!
Whether you’re a union brother or sister or a proud Michigan voter, there are many ways that you can take action to defend democracy this election. Click here to learn how you can volunteer to defend democracy in 2026 with the labor movement.
Make your plan to cast your ballot on or before Tuesday, November 3. To check your voter registration, request an absentee ballot, find your polling place, and more, go to mi.gov/vote.
— — —
Kate Mason, Executive Director
Michigan Labor Foundation
