About Us
UnionAdvocacy is committed to championing workers' rights and empowering labor unions through strategic advocacy and collaboration.
Led by Donnie Johnson, a seasoned union organizer with over 16 years of experience, our organization is dedicated to driving positive change locally and nationally. We collaborate closely with labor unions, progressive groups, and elected officials to advance pro-worker policies, protect collective bargaining rights, and enhance working conditions for all.
Our mission is clear: to enact positive change through legislative lobbying, grassroots campaigns, and effective communication strategies. Together, we stand with labor, fight for justice, and strive to build a brighter future for working people everywhere.
We've been here
Accomplishments and Wins
Labor Advocacy and Political Action
Our journey in labor advocacy began in Ohio during the 2011 Senate Bill 5 campaign. Collaborating with public and private sector unions, we vigorously opposed The Koch Brothers' attempts to strip collective bargaining rights from public sector unions. In a historic move, we joined forces with unions from across the country, rallying support at the ballot box and successfully restoring collective bargaining rights to Ohio workers.
Since then, we have been at the forefront of some of the country's most impactful pro-union organizing, legislative, and electoral campaigns.
Lobbying and Grassroots Advocacy
At our core, we lead powerful advocacy campaigns across multiple states, fighting for essential legislative changes that improve the lives of working people. Our efforts have driven minimum wage increases, expanded healthcare access for public employees, secured wage hikes for doctors and nurses, and pushed for safe staffing levels in healthcare settings. We’ve also led the charge on workplace safety legislation and mental health benefits, ensuring improved working conditions and greater rights for union members.
Through grassroots organizing and strategic lobbying, we’ve achieved significant victories in education funding, healthcare access, and mental health services. By mobilizing communities, engaging with policymakers, and partnering with union leaders, we hold elected officials accountable to their promises and create lasting and positive change.
Coalition Building
We have spearheaded impactful coalition building efforts, nationally and locally, to advance workers' rights and fair labor practices. Our collaborations with local organizations and community groups have yielded significant victories all over the country. These successes underscore our commitment to uniting voices for positive change and building a stronger, more inclusive labor movement.
Political Action Program
Through our Political Action Program, we lead robust initiatives to register voters, drive turnout, and engage both union members and voters. Our efforts include voter registration drives, educational campaigns, ballot initiatives, and empowering member participation in elections, all while advocating for pro-worker policies. We have assisted member-led organizations in candidate screening and endorsements.
Public Relations Campaigns and Communications
Our successful public relations campaigns during contract negotiations have led to improved wages, benefits, and working conditions for thousands of workers. Utilizing media outreach, social media campaigns, and community events, we've raised awareness about labor issues and garnered public support for union causes.
Meet The Managing Partner
Donnie Johnson has emerged as a leading figure in some of the nation's most impactful electoral and organizing campaigns. With over 16 years of experience as a union organizer, electoral manager, and government relations expert, Donnie has played a pivotal role in shaping the outcomes of high-profile political campaigns and union victories, positioning himself at the forefront of transformative change.
From his notable contributions to campaigns such as Obama for America and Biden for President to his strategic leadership within organizations like the Michigan Democratic Party, the Ohio Democratic Party and Sherrod Brown's U.S. Senate campaign, Donnie has left a lasting mark on the political landscape. His guidance has been instrumental in shaping electoral successes and advancing progressive agendas.
Donnie brings considerable expertise in working with esteemed labor organizations such as the National Education Association, SEIU, Ohio public sector unions, and numerous local affiliates nationwide. His unwavering dedication to advancing workers' rights and empowering unions has driven his professional journey and solidified his reputation as a champion of labor advocacy and progressive change.