WHEREAS:

An educated and well-trained AFSCME membership is the key to a strong and influential union; and

WHEREAS:

Labor education and training involves learning a multitude of union-building and personal development skills; and

WHEREAS:

On-the-job training has been the most prevalent method for officers, stewards and activists to learn their duties and skills; and

WHEREAS:

That on-the-job training is better learned when complemented with labor education classroom reinforcement; and

WHEREAS:

More frequent education and training programs are requested by AFSCME members in a recent membership survey; and

WHEREAS:

Despite the fact that AFSCME has the largest Education Department of all labor unions, 1.3 million members cannot sufficiently receive more education and training programs unless members assist.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:

All locals and/or councils renew their commitment to support existing education committees and to create an education committee where they do not, exist; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:

That the local or council education committee fulfill the mission of delivering a comprehensive educational and training program in conjunction with the International Education and Leadership Training Department to meet the learning needs of AFSCME members.

SUBMITTED BY:

Barbara Benson, President
Marcella Schillinger, Secretary
AFSCME Local 2508, Council 14
Minnesota