Globalization Program Series

Part 2 – April 18, 2009, 1:00-3:00pm
Exposing Globalization’s Dark Side: Sweatshops, Worker Rights and the Fight for Fairness in the World Economy.

Main Speaker: Charlie Kernaghan, internationally-known labor rights advocate and Executive Director of the National Labor Committee and the newly-formed Global Institute for Labor and Human Rights.
How do we change the terms of trade so that more people can benefit (free trade vs. fair trade)?

Charles Kernaghan
Executive Director, National Labor Committee



Part 1 – March 21, 2009, 1:00-3:00pm
Globalization & Its Reach Into Our Lives

Speaker: Kim Miller, National Coordinator of Rapid Response, a national grassroots advocacy program of the United Steelworkers
What are the links between globalization and the current worldwide economic crisis?

Kim Miller has served as the National Coordinator for the United Steelworkers’ (USW) Rapid Response program for the past four years. Rapid Response is a nationwide communication and education network that ensures Steelworker members are aware of legislative decisions and actions that can impact their lives. At critical times, Rapid Response takes action, mobilizing members to influence the political process.

Kim also worked as an organizer for the USW, conducting and taking part in campaigns across the country.

Before joining the USW, Kim worked as a Legislative Assistant and Special Projects Coordinator in the leadership office of former U.S. Representative and Democratic Whip David Bonior, working on trade issues during key Congressional debates. She has also done PAC fundraising for Congressional candidates and served in Americorps, a national service program.

Kim holds a master’s degree in political management from the George Washington University and a bachelor’s in communication from Ohio University.

Kim is a third generation union member. She lives in Mt. Lebanon along with her husband and son, and is active in a number of Pittsburgh-area organizations.


Part 3 – Date: May 16, 2009, 1:00-3:00pm
The Environmental Impact of Globalization

Speaker: Hillary Bright, Associate Regional Representative of the Sierra Club

What are green jobs and why are they increasingly important in today’s world?