WHEREAS:

AFSCME represents nearly half a million women, has had an active women's program for more than 12 years, and leads the labor movement in its commitment to equality in the workplace; and

WHEREAS:

Women have played, and continue to play, a vital role in our union. Currently 45% of local officers are women and 35% of local presidents are women; and

WHEREAS:

Since 1978 AFSCME has had a national women's advisory committee of rank-and-file union women which advises the International union on its policies and programs of interest to women members; and

WHEREAS:

The Department of Women's Rights and Community Action provides services, education and materials on subjects of interest to AFSCME women. In 1983 AFSCME held regional women's conferences attended by 1800 members which helped women to develop leadership skills and encouraged participation in the union.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:

That the National Women's Advisory Committee continue to function to advise the International union on its programs for women, with members appointed by the International President; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:

That women's committees continue to function, or be established, wherever appropriate at the council and local levels.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:

That conferences and education programs emphasizing the needs of women workers and helping women to increase their leadership skills be encouraged at the state and local levels.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:

That because AFSCME members recognize that all members stand to gain from eradicating injustice, AFSCME will continue to lead the fight to end discrimination based on sex in the workplace and in society.

SUBMITTED BY:

Mark Neimeiser, Executive Director
Marty Beil, President
Norma Chance, Secretary
AFSCME Council 24
Madison, Wisconsin