WHEREAS:
The 2022 election cycle is one of national significance, with critical federal, state and local races across the country; and
WHEREAS:
This year’s elections will dictate whether local, state and federal offices are held by leaders who actively support America’s working families, and our robust democracy, or by those who work against these interests; and
WHEREAS:
Elections create an opportunity to engage members on tangible and attainable goals that can have a major impact on the betterment of their lives; and
WHEREAS:
Electoral campaigns generate hundreds of thousands of opportunities to have in-person conversations as well as utilizing electronic technologies to further enhance these conversations with our AFSCME family across the country about issues that matter to them and why they are active in our union. AFSCME affiliates across the country have successfully used the hybrid campaign model to build our union’s political and bargaining power; and
WHEREAS:
These conversations create one-on-one organizing opportunities to further our AFSCME Strong goals to grow our union, strengthen relationships with existing members, recruit new activists, build power in the workplace and grow our PEOPLE PAC, all while gaining member support for AFSCME-endorsed candidates and motivating those supporters to vote; and
WHEREAS:
No workforce has more at stake in the decisions made by elected officials than public employees. They influence our wages, health care pensions and working conditions; and
WHEREAS:
The success of our 2022 electoral campaigns is dependent on AFSCME members leading our campaign efforts and serving as the messengers of the importance of the elections to our members.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:
In 2022, the International Union and its affiliates shall engage in robust member mobilization electoral programs and the PEOPLE program, designed to provide critical support to elect labor champions to local, state and federal office; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:
The International Union and its affiliates will take this opportunity to further deepen our organizing efforts and relationships with AFSCME members, potential members, households and local communities to build power in the workplace and at the bargaining table.
SUBMITTED BY:
International Executive Board