American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees

The American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) is the largest trade union of public employees in the United States, representing over 1.3 million public sector workers and retirees. Founded in Madison, Wisconsin, in 1932, AFSCME is affiliated with the American Federation of Labor–Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO), one of the two main labor federations in the U.S.

History

AFSCME was formed during the Great Depression by a group of white-collar state employees seeking to protect civil service jobs and prevent political patronage. Initially known as the Wisconsin State Employees Union, the organization later became AFSCME and was granted a charter by the American Federation of Labor (AFL) in 1936. Arnold Zander, a key figure, served as AFSCME's first International President from 1936 to 1964. In its early years, AFSCME focused on lobbying to strengthen civil service laws. By the end of 1936, the union had about 10,000 members, growing to 73,000 by 1946[1][2][3].

Growth and Development

AFSCME's membership expanded significantly following the merger with the Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO) in 1955, which added approximately 40,000 members and emphasized collective bargaining as a means to improve working conditions[1][3]. The 1960s marked a period of increased advocacy for collective bargaining rights, with Jerry Wurf becoming president in 1964 and promoting more aggressive organizing and union reform[3]. This period saw significant growth, and by the 1990s, AFSCME had surpassed 1.2 million members[3].

Membership and Representation

Today, AFSCME is divided into approximately 3,400 local unions across 46 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico[2]. The union represents a diverse range of public sector employees, including healthcare workers, corrections officers, sanitation workers, police officers, firefighters, and childcare providers[2].

Political Involvement

AFSCME is known for its engagement in political campaigns, primarily supporting the Democratic Party. It was one of the first organizations to take advantage of the Citizens United decision, allowing unions to directly finance political ads[2]. Key issues for AFSCME include advocating for single-payer healthcare, protecting pension benefits, raising the minimum wage, preventing job privatization, and expanding unemployment benefits[2].

Structure and Leadership

As of recent years, Lee Saunders serves as the president of AFSCME[2]. The union operates with an International Executive Board and is headquartered in Washington, D.C.[2]. Its political activities, organizing efforts, and advocacy have made AFSCME a powerful voice in national labor politics and social issues.

Notable Events

• 1932: Formation in Madison, Wisconsin
• 1936: Received charter from AFL
• 1955: Merger with CIO
• 1964: Jerry Wurf becomes president
• 1990s: Membership surpasses 1.2 million
• 2010s: Active political engagement following Citizens United decision[2][3].