Institute of Politics

Overview of Organization: The Chicago Federation of Labor is the umbrella organization for Chicago and Cook County’s labor unions. From airline pilots to zookeepers, the Chicago Federation of Labor’s 300 affiliated unions and their half a million members represent a diverse group of working women and men throughout the area. Our strength as a labor movement comes from the unity and solidarity of our affiliated organizations and their members. Together we defend a middle class of hard working women and men, pursue aggressive legislative and political strategies, and help working people remain a highly-skilled, sought-after workforce in a fast moving economy. Thanks to the leadership of our Executive Board and the commitment of our affiliated local unions, we are able to make a difference for working people in Chicago and throughout Cook County.

Internship Summary: The Chicago Federation of Labor is seeking an intern to assist with strategic communications, campaigns and events heading into the 2026 general election. This intern will assist the director with the planning of the CFL’s Committee on Political Education (COPE) endorsement process and help produce labor and political communications materials.

Responsibilities:

• Track and share media coverage of the CFL
• Draft press materials, social media copy, and talking points
• Attend and support public rallies and events
• Help prepare for internal meetings and events
• Assist in planning of annual parades including the Pride and Bud Billiken parades
• Copyedit communications and campaign materials
• Coordinate with community relations team on citizenship workshops, strike support efforts, and other ongoing projects

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with event planning and execution
• Demonstrated interest in politics and strategic communications
• Strong writing skills
• Avid consumer of news and follower of current events
• Previous political and/or labor campaign experience a plus
• Detail-oriented

Eligibility:

• Undergraduate and graduate students
• Domestic and international students

About the Supervisor: Nick Desideri is the Political Director of the Chicago Federation of Labor, where he manages the CFL’s endorsement process. He develops the organization’s field and mail programs to help turn out Chicagoland union members in support of pro-worker candidates and coordinates with affiliates on legislative efforts at the local, county, and state levels.

Before joining the CFL, Nick served as Communications Director for St. Louis Mayor Tishaura O. Jones, building out the administration’s day-to-day communications infrastructure and strategy. Nick previously worked at SEIU Local 1 managing campaign and member communications in six states and 11 cities across the Midwest.

Location/Modality/Commute: 180 N Stetson Ave Suite 1529, Chicago, IL 60601 In-person at least three days per week

Start/End Date: Summer internships will take place from June 1 to September 25, with specific dates to be determined by the employer partner and intern during the interview process. Tentative start date of either June 15 or 22.

Required Materials:

• Resume
• Cover letter
• 2 writing samples