UNITE HERE

UNITE (formerly the Union of Needletrades, Industrial and Textile Employees) and HERE (Hotel Employees and Restaurant Employees International Union) merged on July 8, 2004 forming UNITE HERE. The union represents more than 450,000 active members and more than 400,000 retirees throughout North America. UNITE HERE represents workers in apparel and textile manufacturing, apparel distribution centers, apparel retail, industrial laundries, hotels, casinos, food service, airport concessions, and restaurants. Membership is comprised largely of immigrants and including high percentages of African-Americans, Latino, and Asian American workers. Additionally, the majority of UNITE HERE members are women. The union is involved in issues such social security, trade and overtime laws, and workers benefits. UNITE HERE makes large contributions in Illinois through the UNITE HERE TIP State and Local Fund. This is a 527 group headquartered in NYC.

UNITE HERE is a career patron of Secretary of State Jesse White (D) and Democratic Party Chair and House Speaker Michael J. Madigan.

From 1993 through June 30, 2007, UNITE HERE contributed $1,8374,000 to candidates for Illinois statewide constitutional and legislative offices. 77% of these funds have been contributed to Democrats.

Last revised June 2011.