In a significant development for both the sport of hockey and the labor movement, the National Hockey League Players’ Association (NHLPA) and the Professional Hockey Players’ Association (PHPA) have officially affiliated with the AFL-CIO, the largest federation of unions in the United States. This announcement comes amid ongoing collective bargaining discussions and marks a pivotal chapter for over 15 million workers represented under the AFL-CIO umbrella.
The inclusion of these hockey associations elevates the total number of unions within the AFL-CIO to 63. This move is expected to provide a stronger voice for professional hockey players as they advocate for improved working conditions and fair labor practices. AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler emphasized the significance of this alliance, stating, “Whether our work is on the rink, in the classroom, or on the factory floor, every worker deserves a voice on the job and the power that comes with union membership.” She further expressed excitement about welcoming the NHLPA and PHPA into the federation’s newly established Sports Council, which aims to support athletes in securing robust union contracts, equitable wages, safe working environments, and continuous professional growth.
The NHLPA represents about 750 players spanning across 32 teams, whereas the PHPA includes 1,800 members involved with the American Hockey League (AHL) and the ECHL. Marty Walsh, NHLPA executive director, echoed Shuler’s sentiment by highlighting the crucial impact of this partnership in the current labor landscape. “The NHLPA’s membership is proud to join the AFL-CIO and its sports council during this important moment in the labor movement,” he remarked. The collaboration will also connect the NHLPA with other sports unions in North America, thereby amplifying their collective bargaining power to fight for safer and more equitable workplaces.
The AFL-CIO's Sports Council was initially formed in 2022, aiming to bring together various players’ associations from major sports leagues, including the NFL, WNBA, Major League Soccer, and the National Women's Soccer League. This council is instrumental in uniting different sports unions to work harmoniously towards enhanced conditions for athletes.
Brian Ramsay, executive director of PHPA, described the affiliation as a strategic step towards achieving substantial outcomes for workers in all industrial sectors. He noted, “Our members are excited about taking an active role in working towards better outcomes for working people in every sector of the economy.” He also highlighted the advantage this alliance provides as collective bargaining negotiations commence, assuring members that they now have the robust backing of the AFL-CIO at the bargaining table. “This is what solidarity is all about,” Ramsay added.
This move signifies more than just an addition to the AFL-CIO's membership; it is a declaration of solidarity and collective strength among workers in both sports and beyond. As these hockey players and their respective unions step into this expanded role, they contribute to an evolving narrative within the labor movement, championing the rights of all workers to fair treatment and improvement in their professional lives.
