News & Updates
Latest From the Brotherhood
Stay informed about union victories, upcoming actions, membership news, and the ongoing fight for clean clams. This is your source for everything happening at Clean Clams Local Union 1.
Union Secures Landmark Clean Clam Standards Agreement
Clean Clams Local Union 1 continues working toward landmark agreements with industry stakeholders in the Chicago area. Our bargaining committee is pursuing the most comprehensive clean clam standards in the Midwest, covering handling procedures, inspection protocols, and accountability measures. President Big Mike Callahan called it 'exactly the kind of progress our union was built for.' These efforts set a foundation for future negotiations and stronger standards. Read more about our collective bargaining efforts on our dedicated page.
Read related page →Spring Rally Draws Record Attendance to Grant Park
The annual Spring Rally for Clean Clams brought members and supporters to Grant Park on a beautiful Saturday afternoon, filling the park with energy and solidarity. The rally featured speeches from union leadership, live music, and of course, our iconic chants echoing across the lakefront. Vice President Sandy Kowalski delivered a powerful keynote about the progress we've made and the work still ahead. Media coverage reached millions across Chicago's major news outlets. See our upcoming events and plan to attend the next one.
Read related page →Expanded Member Benefits Package Announced for 2026
The union's executive board has unanimously approved an enhanced benefits package for all members effective immediately. New benefits include expanded educational workshop offerings, a mentorship program pairing new members with veterans, increased Brotherhood Fund assistance limits, and partnerships with local businesses for member discounts. These improvements were made possible by our growing membership and responsible financial management under Secretary-Treasurer Tony 'The Shell' Marino. View the complete benefits breakdown on our Member Benefits page.
Read related page →Clean Clam Education Initiative Launches in Chicago Public Schools
In partnership with CPS and several community organizations, we've launched the Clean Clam Education Initiative — a program bringing clean clam awareness to middle and high school students across Chicago. The curriculum includes interactive workshops, guest speakers from the union, and hands-on learning experiences. This initiative represents a major step in our community outreach strategy, ensuring the next generation understands the importance of clean clams. Learn more about our community programs.
Read related page →State Legislature Considers Clean Clam Standards Bill
Illinois State Senator Maria Rodriguez has introduced SB-2026, the Illinois Clean Clam Standards Act, with strong support from our union's legislative affairs team. The bill would establish statewide minimum cleanliness standards for all clam-related operations. Board member Frank Szczepanski testified before the Senate committee, presenting data and member testimonials that moved several legislators. We are cautiously optimistic about the bill's prospects and are organizing a letter-writing campaign to support it.
Monthly Brotherhood Meeting Sets 2026 Priorities
The January Brotherhood Meeting drew a strong turnout to Union Hall for a lively discussion about priorities for the year ahead. The membership voted to focus on three key areas: expanding the landmark bargaining agreement to additional organizations, growing membership to 600+ by year-end, and strengthening our legislative advocacy efforts at the state level. The meeting also included the quarterly financial report, which showed strong fiscal health thanks to growing membership and disciplined spending.
Clean Clams Local 1 Named 'Union of the Year' by Chicago Labor Council
We are proud to announce that Clean Clams Local Union 1 has been named Union of the Year by the Chicago Labor Council, recognizing our outstanding advocacy, community engagement, and membership growth. This award follows our Midwest Labor Excellence Award and further cements our reputation as one of the most effective and dynamic local unions in the region. Thank you to every member who makes this brotherhood what it is.
Holiday Solidarity Dinner Brings Brotherhood Together
Members and their families gathered at the Union Hall for our annual Holiday Solidarity Dinner. The evening featured a catered meal, live entertainment, recognition of outstanding members, and of course, a group rendition of all three official union chants. President Big Mike Callahan reflected on a remarkable year and raised a toast to the brotherhood's continued strength. Explore our chants and traditions to learn more about events like this.
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