WHEREAS:

The members of AFSCME are in continuing need of International Union programs designed to inform and educate the membership about issues of concern to public employees; and

WHEREAS:

International Union periodicals like The Public Employee Magazine focus on issues regarding public employment not covered by the general press; and

WHEREAS:

Current information regarding public employee issues can be an important service to the general membership of the union; and

WHEREAS:

Local union newsletters are a vital link in the international communications chain for our union and are often the first place that, members look for information about their union.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:

That the International Union reaffirm its commitment to communicating with the membership; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:

That AFSCME make every effort to inform its membership through publications like The Public Employee Magazine and other International publications of the emerging developments on a broad range of topics such as the role of the union in organizing and bargaining, winning pay equity, fighting contracting out and deinstitutionalization, taking political action, striving for the health and safety of workers, seeking legislation affecting union members, working to aid retirees and to develop greater retirement benefits for public employees, and operating in the areas of international affairs, community action, and relationships with the AFL-CIO and its state bodies; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:

That AFSCME expand its efforts, in concert with the councils, and locals to encourage and strengthen local union publications through the provision of story and graphic packets, training materials, and training assistance, to subordinate body local union newsletter editors and committees.

SUBMITTED BY:

Ronald C. Alexander, President
Andy J. DiLoreto II, Secretary-Treasurer
OCSEA Local 11/AFSCME
Columbus, OH