WHEREAS:

Public servants serve the surrounding communities; and

WHEREAS:

Public servants live in the surrounding communities; and

WHEREAS:

The material livelihoods, including wages, pensions and healthcare, of public servants affect the material livelihoods of families and communities; and

WHEREAS:

West Virginia teachers were able to successfully strike for improved material livelihoods, including a 5 percent pay increase, by gaining support through community action prior to and during the strike by packing lunches for children and organizing community groups to provide childcare; and

WHEREAS:

West Virginia teachers were able to bolster community support by organizing with school staff, parents and state workers; and

WHEREAS:

The material livelihoods of public servants across the country have been declining since the 1980s and many have been pushed out of the middle class and forced into debt servitude.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:

That AFSCME tactically prioritize local and community organizing efforts to increase membership and community support for future strikes; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:

That AFSCME back grassroots strike actions through appropriate financial, vocal and/or written support of growing worker engagement motivated by declining working conditions.

SUBMITTED BY:

Jordan Scott, Secretary and Delegate
AFSCME Local 3037, Organizing Council 979
Florida