WHEREAS: 

The foundation of our democracy relies on the active participation of its citizens, ensuring that the voices of workers and their families are heard; and 

WHEREAS: 

Elections play a critical role in shaping policies that affect the rights, wages and working conditions of our members and the broader labor community; and 

WHEREAS: 

Our union is facing political attacks like never before. With Donald Trump on the ballot again in 2024, and extremist anti-worker politicians seeking elective office at every level of government, the need for AFSCME engagement in the political arena is greater than ever; and 

WHEREAS: 

Recent electoral successes in Michigan and Minnesota have underscored the significant impact that organized labor can have on political outcomes, demonstrating the power of collective action and mobilization in achieving pro-worker legislative victories; and 

WHEREAS: 

The engagement of AFSCME members and their families in the electoral process is paramount to protecting our democracy and ensuring that labor-friendly policies are enacted and upheld; and 

WHEREAS: 

The International Union has worked in partnership with affiliates to increase our union’s capacity to fight back against the attacks and advance workers’ interests. Hybrid political campaigns are more comprehensive than a traditional political campaign and allow us to focus on one-on-one conversations with members — potential and existing — both at the workplace and in their homes; and 

WHEREAS: 

This year’s elections present a perfect opportunity for members to recommit to the union and turn out to vote. 

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED: 

That AFSCME and its affiliates will dedicate time and resources to implement hybrid campaigns into their political work by having one-on-one conversations with members, increasing PEOPLE participation and moving members to vote in critical elections; and 

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: 

That AFSCME and its affiliates will collaborate with community partners and allies to expand our mobilization efforts, reaching out to a broader audience and fostering a coalition of support for pro-labor candidates and initiatives; and 

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED: 

That through these efforts, our union commits to vigorously defending democratic principles and empowering our members to promote the dignity of work, the rights of workers and the welfare of our communities. 

SUBMITTED BY:
International Executive Board