WHEREAS:

The lines between public service and private corporations are blurring. Our members compete for contracts with private sector employers; and

WHEREAS:

To create union power we need to represent workers on both sides of this divide. The key for building power for workers is to organize the key services in which our members work. Only in highly unionized markets do workers have a strong say in their work life. In highly unionized areas, workers also have a greater say in politics. AFSCME needs to effectively represent these workers throughout the public service economy; and

WHEREAS:

AFSCME has created high standards in the public sector. However, many public services are delivered by both public and private employers. As a result of privatization, we need to defend these accomplishments by extending these standards to private sector employees who deliver public services.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:

AFSCME will accelerate organizing in our key industries to bring justice and a voice on the job to more workers. We will initiate regional and national campaigns to organize employers providing public services; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:

AFSCME will use our strength in politics, in the workplace and in the halls of government to assist in the organization of these industries; and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED:

AFSCME will coordinate worker activity, bargaining and organizing in key industries to accelerate the pace of change and to advance the interests of our members and improve the lives of public service employees. Specifically, AFSCME will identify standards for affiliate negotiators to achieve in these regional and national campaigns, so as to truly win improvements in workers' lives.

SUBMITTED BY:

David Miller, President and Delegate 
Margaret Barnard, Secretary-Treasurer and Delegate
AFSCME Local 3728, Council 62
Indiana