| I just wanted to weigh in on this a little. Wilmer and I have discussed this off the board once and I am (as many of you may already know) very PRO Union.
To be more specific, I am for the local chapters of the Unions that I belong to. To be completely honest, I don't feel the Federation has its pulse on the heart beat of today's workers...I think that they are neglecting and avoiding some very important issues.
However, the local chapters are a VERY democratic society, and the leadership of each local is only as strong as the members who subscribe.
If you are unhappy with the leadership in your local, you have the power to change things. There are elections for leadership positions, there are meetings, and if you get enough people interested your vision will materialize.
I've been a member of less than desirable chapters and as of late, I belong to TWO great chapters. These chapters have leadership that are deeply invested in their members and they listen very carefeully to our needs. It wasn't always like that, but changes were made...for the better and the proper people were put in the appropiate places.
The AFM is a good thing...They fight for us when no one else will or can. They stand up for the individual who has no voice alone, and there is always breathing room with collective bargaining.
Investigate the AFM, their pension plans, and all they have to offer. Ask lots of questions. Get involved. The AFM's future and course of direction is entirely up to its membership.
Mike Zonshine
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Zony |