Student Group Focuses on Labor

Led by MS ILR students, the ILR School’s Graduate Labor Organization has expanded to include other Cornell students, particularly Ph.D. candidates studying sociology, said Claire Sleigh, MS ’25, president of the group.

“We join together with like-minded people around labor issues and learn from each other. Our secondary purpose is to have a space for people to meet each other and build solidarity,” she said.

The group’s first event last November was a panel discussion with Ithaca area labor leaders, who discussed their experiences in the labor movement.

“We received good feedback, especially from undergraduates. For some, it was their first time meeting labor leaders. It connected what they’re learning in class to the real world,” she said.

Advised by Visiting Lecturer Lee Adler, the group draws up to 30 people to its twice-monthly meetings. 

"The GLO has been valuable to nearly all of its members,” Adler said. “They are a small portion of ILRies seeking a Master's degree, but nearly all seek work in labor unions or social justice and human rights organizations.

“Their lovely collegiality arises from a rather deep sense of helping, struggling, and strengthening others to gain the opportunity to be safe in all facets of life. From my experience, the folks who join GLO are our best and brightest students who wish to use their intellectual muscle to advance and expand the possibility of justice for all, and now. I feel quite fortunate in being able to get to know and be with them.