Legal Definitions - American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Orga

The American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) is a large, voluntary association of over one hundred individual labor unions in the United States. While each member union operates independently and makes its own decisions regarding its specific members and industries, they all benefit from being part of the AFL-CIO. This federation works to advance the interests of all workers by engaging in political advocacy, setting general policies for the national labor movement, and providing resources and support to its affiliated unions.

Here are some examples to illustrate the role of the AFL-CIO:

• Example 1: National Policy Advocacy

  Imagine Congress is debating a new federal law that would increase the national minimum wage and strengthen workplace safety regulations. The AFL-CIO would actively lobby lawmakers, publish research supporting these changes, and organize public awareness campaigns to gather support. Even though individual unions like the Teamsters or the American Federation of Teachers might have their own specific concerns, the AFL-CIO acts as a unified voice for all its members, pushing for broad policies that benefit workers across various sectors.

  This example demonstrates how the AFL-CIO uses its collective influence for political activities and the establishment of broad policies that impact the entire national labor movement, rather than just one specific union.

• Example 2: Supporting Member Unions During Disputes

  Consider a situation where a major airline's pilots, represented by an AFL-CIO affiliated union, are in difficult contract negotiations with the airline management. If negotiations stall and a strike becomes a possibility, the AFL-CIO might offer strategic advice, legal support, or even financial assistance from its strike fund to the pilots' union. While the pilots' union makes the final decisions about their contract, the AFL-CIO provides a powerful backing, demonstrating the benefits of affiliation.

  This illustrates how the AFL-CIO supports its member unions, allowing them to operate autonomously in their specific negotiations while still benefiting from the resources and solidarity of the larger federation.

• Example 3: Promoting Worker Rights and Education

  The AFL-CIO might launch a nationwide campaign to educate the public about the importance of collective bargaining rights or to encourage voter registration among union members and their families. They could host workshops on workers' rights, publish reports on economic inequality, or endorse political candidates who support pro-labor legislation. These initiatives are not specific to any single trade or profession but aim to uplift the status and power of all working people.

  This example highlights the AFL-CIO's role in broader political activities and public education, creating a more favorable environment for all its affiliated unions and their members by advocating for general worker interests and rights.