WHEREAS:
AFSCME has established one of the most active and effective online programs in the U.S. labor movement; and
WHEREAS:
AFSCME’s online program is an essential component of the union’s major campaigns and initiatives, such as jobs, health care reform, politics and organizing; and
WHEREAS:
In 2009, AFSCME expanded its online activist base by 20 percent and generated more than 117,000 emails to Congress (a 49 percent jump from the previous year); and
WHEREAS:
Demand for online content continues to increase and traffic to the http://www.afscme.org/ website jumped 30 percent in the past two years; and
WHEREAS:
AFSCME has expanded its online program to include mobile technology that allows us to send important text alerts and to patch AFSCME members directly through to their member of Congress via their cell phones; and
WHEREAS:
AFSCME’s new mobile technology has resulted in an almost 300 percent jump in response rate when we ask members to call Congress; and
WHEREAS:
The use of social networks, such as Facebook and Twitter, has increased dramatically over the past two years, such that nearly half of online adults now use social networks; and
WHEREAS:
AFSCME has built one of the largest social networking communities in the labor movement with our presence on Facebook and Twitter and uses these media innovatively to quickly share information and engage and mobilize supporters; and
WHEREAS:
The International Union has a growing affiliate online program in which hundreds of affiliates are making use of our LaborWeb and email advocacy tools and trainings.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:
The International Union will continue to invest in and grow its online program; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:
AFSCME will continue to strive to innovate in online communications, or any other communication method, to reach and engage our members and unorganized workers; and
BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED:
AFSCME will continue to expand its affiliate online program to provide new and better tools to councils and locals to enhance their member communications and activism at the state and local level.
SUBMITTED BY:
Todd Singer, President and Delegate
Jane Beveridge, Secretary and Delegate
AFSCME Council 13
Pennsylvania