HARTFORD, CT—On Monday night, hundreds of workers and allies gathered outside Governor Ned Lamont’s residence in Hartford with one unified message: Connecticut must stand with workers.
Union members, grassroots organizers, faith leaders, and climate justice advocates rallied together to demand the Governor sign urgently needed legislation that would provide unemployment insurance benefits to striking workers. The bill—already passed by both chambers of the legislature—would allow workers to access benefits after two weeks on strike, offering families a critical financial lifeline during difficult and courageous fights for fair pay, safe working conditions, and respect on the job.
This action marked a powerful show of solidarity across movements. It wasn’t just about one union, one issue, or one moment—it was a collective demand for justice rooted in the experiences of those who have long been on the frontlines of racial, economic, labor, and climate injustice.
“This legislation is about power, not just paychecks.”
That’s how Aziz Dehkan, Executive Director of the Connecticut Roundtable on Climate and Jobs (CRCJ), described the stakes of this moment.
“Supporting workers on strike—especially those in under-resourced communities—is essential to protecting the right to organize and ensuring working people have a fair shot. When we stand with workers, we strengthen the backbone of our economy.”
Aziz Dehkan, Executive Director of the Connecticut Roundtable On Climate And Jobs
At CRCJ, we believe that building a sustainable future means centering the voices of those most impacted by inequality—and that includes standing by them when they speak up. Whether striking for a fair contract, safe schools, or a living wage, no one should be pushed into financial crisis for taking a stand.
While a small group of counter-protesters framed the bill as a burden to taxpayers, that narrative misses the broader picture: this is about protecting fundamental rights in the face of growing economic instability. It’s about ensuring that the path to justice doesn’t require risking everything.
📣 Take Action: Contact Governor Lamont
Governor Lamont has fewer than 15 days to sign this critical legislation. We need your voice—now.
📞 Call: (860) 566-4840
✉️ Email: [email protected]
Tell him: Sign the Unemployment Benefits for Striking Workers Bill. Stand with Connecticut’s workers.
Together, we can build a state where no one is forced to choose between their paycheck and their principles.
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📸 Images captured by CRCJ team during the rally
