Community Conversation: Uplifting a Community Story of the Benefits of Unions (May 2025)

In our May 2025 Community Conversation, we shared exciting new research from Topos that focuses both on community support for unionization efforts AND on how the current momentum behind these efforts can spark a broader community conversation about a people-first economy. 

The research reveals a powerful opportunity: communities already hold values and beliefs that support a more expansive story about the role of unions — not just as advocates for workers, but as essential drivers of economic well-being for entire communities.

By tapping into existing views about work, power, and the economy, we can build broader support for inclusive, pro-worker policies.

Topos’ Jamila Gilmore presented key findings from the research, followed by reflections from guest speaker Michael Gilliland of CALEB (Chattanoogans in Action for Love, Equality and Benevolence).

Watch:

• Jamila Gilmore of Topos presents new research on the community benefit of unions
• Michael Gililand of CALEB discusses how he is thinking about this research in his work in TN