SEIU + Afscme + teamsters + other Unions in Michigan and elsewhere
Unions and labor in Michigan have been like many other states experiencing similar problems, support and solidarity. In Michigan many workers face privatization to corporate out of state companies. Low membership involvement. Wage compression or low wages. Anti union tactics from forming a union in work places. And much more.
Im local 1166 President For Afscme, we’re a little over 100 members and non members who we represent. We’re in the middle of negotiations facing mediation to reach an agreement.
I’m writing to SEIU and other Unions for a Michigan grassroots movement or a dream bigger country wide labor alliance with all unions. I’m looking for others who are willing to get involved and help.
Our unions need to come together and help one another. I’m Afscme, and your …? And I don’t care. What I care about is your a brother, a sister, a person who works an hourly job for you and your family.
If you or you know someone who is interested in uniting Michigan or anywhere please reach out. My first thought is how do we elevate member involvement? Become more transparent for our members with union information.
During a survey a year ago I received a message from an Afscme member. In the survey I asked, “ how can Afscme become better?”
Their answer was ,” it’s your union figure it out…”
That stuck with me.
I became president because we needed one. I was a member for one month before this position. So I started to go to other local meetings to see how they worked and all the training sessions I could attend. I seen very low attendance, low involvement and people who cared but faced similar problems.
We have a chance to unite “not under Afscme of SEIU or any other group but as many groups. Under the word “Union”
Unions today are not left or right. Blue or Red, but a diverse group of individuals and workers with many different views, beliefs and values.
I have felt many Democrats have abandoned us, many republicans haven’t really cared.
I believe we need to find political leaders who are Labor Supporting and not just for a vote, but real labor supporters.
Example is I’ve written every democratic leader in Michigan and the responses were disappointing.
“Thank you for contacting…, please contact your district’s representative.”
I hope this message is received well, and I find a few union members who are looking to make a change.
Thank You