Union-created role addresses crises, issues in pandemic: “The union’s Chief Safety Officer is there to ensure that the safety of all is priority number one.”
“We’re going to get through this. We know AFSCME has our back.” From early childhood to higher education, AFSCME Council 31 members are navigating a radically changed school community while advocating for the resources and protections needed for a safe workplace and learning environment.
A public water system is the best way to ensure accountability for employees, consumers and our community. AFSCME Local 988 members are fighting the proposed sale of Rock Island’s municipal water service to a for-profit operator.
“The union will allow counselors and administration to work together to improve overall working conditions,” counselor Loren Sargent said. “The union will improve staff conditions, which will ultimately improve student conditions as well.”
The Illinois Department of Public Health, local health departments and public health partners throughout Illinois are working together with federal agencies such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to respond to the COVID-19 public health emergency. AFSCME members at IDPH in Chicago, Springfield and Carbondale are on the front lines in the battle against the virus, helping save as many lives as possible.
Using interest-based negotiations for the first time, AFSCME Local 1960 at the City of Champaign settled a three-year contract in less than three months.
Employees at Homewood Public Library certified their union with AFSCME three years ago. Now, after two years of picketing, leafleting, marching and testifying for a fair contract, these new AFSCME members finally have a first contract.