For Immediate Release

AFSCME’s Saunders: Court ruling a major victory for Voice of America workers who protect free speech across the globe

WASHINGTON – AFSCME President Lee Saunders released the following statement after the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia issued a ruling pausing the Trump administration’s layoff of Voice of America workers:

“Today’s decision affirms that the administration is failing to fulfill its duty to keep Voice of America running, which is a beacon for free speech and democracy. This is a major victory for Voice of America workers, including AFSCME members, and for those across the globe who depend on the work they do to access free and fair reporting. This administration has tried to strip these workers of their right to collectively bargain and eliminate their jobs, targeting those who work every day to protect free speech from even the most oppressive regimes. We will continue to fight back against this administration’s attempts to punish Voice of America workers simply for doing their jobs of telling the truth.”

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AFSCME’s 1.4 million members provide the vital services that make America happen. With members in communities across the nation, serving in hundreds of different occupations — from nurses to corrections officers, childcare providers to sanitation workers — AFSCME advocates for fairness in the workplace, excellence in public services and freedom and opportunity for all working families. 

AFSCME’s 1.4 million members provide the vital services that make America happen. With members in communities across the nation, serving in hundreds of different occupations — from nurses to corrections officers, child care providers to sanitation workers — AFSCME advocates for fairness in the workplace, excellence in public services and freedom and opportunity for all working families.

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American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, AFL-CIO
1625 L Street, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20036-5687
Telephone: (202) 429-1145
Fax: (202) 429-1120

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