IUE-CWA Members Win Improvements for Working Mothers

IUE-CWA Local 83600 members, led by local steward Heather Howard, have taken significant steps to support working mothers by establishing a secure lactation room for expressing breast milk at the KMG plant in Shepherdsville, Ky. This initiative was prompted by concerns from several employees about the lack of privacy and security when pumping milk in the locker room and first aid room, where interruptions were common. Workers at the facility, which is owned by New Flyer, fabricate high-tech parts for buses.

One mother was criticized by her supervisor for taking too long to pump, highlighting the need for a more understanding workplace culture. In response, Howard and a group of mothers approached management to advocate for better facilities and educate them on the legal rights of breastfeeding employees.

Since then, the company has converted an office into a dedicated lactation room equipped with a mini-fridge, cabinets, and shelves. Plans are also in place to explore the addition of lactation pods on the production floor in the future.

This initiative marks a positive change for working mothers at KMG, ensuring they have the time and space to express milk while balancing their work responsibilities.

 
IUE-CWA members at the KMG plant in Shepherdsville, Ky., fought for, and won, a dedicated lactation space for working mothers. Pictured left to right: IUE-CWA Local 83600 member Hope Kelley, Local 83600 steward Heather Howard, and Local 83600 member Holly Kirker.

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This post originally appeared on cwa-union.org.