WHEREAS:

Historically immigrant workers have been vulnerable to the actions of their employers; and

WHEREAS:

The American Labor Movement was built by organizing the immigrant workforce into strong labor unions; and

WHEREAS:

Pride in being a union member became an integral part of American life during the industrial period of the past 75 years; and

WHEREAS:

Now much of America's work has changed from the industrial sector to the service sector; and

WHEREAS:

A large number of immigrants are being granted amnesty under the immigration laws and are working in the vastly unorganized service sector; and

WHEREAS:

Through organizing, these workers will be able to enjoy the protections of collective bargaining agreements, and will help strengthen the American Labor Movement.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:

That an extra effort be made to organize workers who are now American workers under the immigration amnesty laws; and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED:

That AFSCME target the immigrant workers in public and private, non-profit service jobs for union membership.

SUBMITTED BY:

Linda Chavez-Thompson, Delegate
Juana Ramirez, Delegate
AFSCME Unaffiliated Local 2399