American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees

AFSCME logo

Labor union in the United States

The American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) is one of the largest labor unions in the United States, representing approximately 1.4 million public sector employees. AFSCME is affiliated with the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO).

History

AFSCME was founded in 1932 in Madison, Wisconsin, during the Great Depression. The union was established to address the needs of public sector workers who were not covered by existing labor laws. Over the years, AFSCME has grown significantly, expanding its membership and influence.

Structure and Governance

AFSCME is organized into local unions, councils, and international bodies. The union's highest governing body is the International Convention, which meets biennially. The union is led by a president, currently Lee Saunders, and an executive board.

Membership

AFSCME represents a diverse group of public sector employees, including healthcare workers, sanitation workers, public safety officers, and clerical staff. The union advocates for better wages, benefits, and working conditions for its members.

Activities

AFSCME is involved in a variety of activities, including collective bargaining, political advocacy, and community service. The union has been active in lobbying for labor-friendly legislation and supporting political candidates who align with its goals.

Notable Campaigns

One of AFSCME's most notable campaigns was the 1968 Memphis sanitation strike, which was a pivotal event in the Civil Rights Movement. The strike highlighted the poor working conditions and low wages of sanitation workers and garnered national attention.

Related Pages

• AFL-CIO
• Labor unions in the United States
• Public sector
• Collective bargaining
• Civil Rights Movement
• Memphis sanitation strike

See Also

• Lee Saunders
• Great Depression
• Madison, Wisconsin

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