Shows
Tales from the Reuther LibraryTalking Archives with AFSCME Secretary-Treasurer Elissa McBrideIn celebration of the Reuther Library’s 50th anniversary, AFSCME Secretary-Treasurer Elissa McBride reflects on the role the union’s history and archives play in current and future labor actions and organizing campaigns.
Related Resources:
AFSCME History
Related Collections:
AFSCME collections at the Reuther Library
Episode Credits
Interviewee: Elissa McBride
Producers: Dan Golodner and Troy Eller English
Music: Bart Bealmear
2025-09-2531 min
America’s Work Force Union PodcastAnders Lindall and Myia Brown, AFSCME | Debbie Goldman, CWAMyia Brown, President of AFSCME Local 35 and Anders Lindall, Public Affairs Director of AFSCME Illinois Council 31, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the surge in union organizing among cultural workers.
This edition of Labor 131, presented by the National Labor Office, features Debbie Goldman, former Research Director for the Communication Workers of America, who joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the history of unionization in the telecom industry.
2025-09-1758 min
Labor & Healthcare ConfidentialDC37, AFLCIO, AFSCME All Lobby Against YOU!As a retiree, you need to fund our own battle! One your former union started if you are DC37 or UFT. And now add AFL-CIO and AFSCME> ALL of them are using your political action dollars known as COPE, PAC, PEOPLES or DRIVE money against you. Watch here, we prove in their filings they are working against you. AFSCME’s Substack AFSCME Local 1674 AFSCME Utah #aflcio #dc37 #uft (other union affiliates will be tagged - as it is important to educate other union brothers and sisters what is happening to us here in NYC by ou...
2025-07-1822 min
Maryland State News and Info DailyMaryland Faces Budget Challenges and Public Health Concerns amid AFSCME Labor NegotiationsMaryland is a state rich in history and policy developments, particularly in government employee relations and budget issues faced by state legislators. The involvement of the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) highlights a significant aspect of labor relations within the state. AFSCME’s presence in Maryland reflects its importance as a representative for state, county, and municipal employees who play critical roles in the functioning of government and public services.Maryland state lawmakers are expected to convene in Annapolis to address several pressing issues, among them a widening structural budget gap. This looming financial is...
2024-11-1302 min
KCSB NewsAFSCME 3299 Rallies for Higher Wages and Fair ContractsSince contract negotiations began in January between AFSCME 3299 and the University of California, the union has called for higher wages to compensate for high costs of living and housing. AFSCME 3299 recently held rallies across UC campuses in support of their demands. KCSB’s Joyce Chi attended the recent picket at UC Santa Barbara and spoke to Francisco Garcia, a member of the union’s bargaining team.
2024-08-0905 min
Labor JawnAFSCME Locals 2186 and 2187 - Interview with Brett Bessler and David WilsonIn this special interview episode, Sam and Gabe sit down to chat with Brett Bessler (Vice President of AFSCME local 2186) and David Wilson (President of AFSCME local 2187) to discuss their upcoming contract negotiations with the city of Philadelphia.Support the showwww.laborjawn.com
2024-06-1042 min
He's Holy & I'm KnottHe's Holy I'm Knott Welcomes one of the Great Union leaders of our time, the great Pat Moran of the AFSCMESo excited to bring our audience another great interview with a man we both have tremendous respect for the great Pat Moran. As we roll towards the end of the 2024 legislative session one thing we know for sure is that there will be winners and losers. Once again Pat Moran is a Winner, but the real winners are the people he represents that work for our State. Patrick has been fighting for working people in their struggle for dignity and respect on the job for nearly 30 years across the United States, Canada, and Europe. He has been...
2024-04-0253 min
Cuyahoga TodayThe Importance of Unions: A Conversation with Marquez Brown of AFSCMEIn this episode of Cuyahoga Today, host Matthew Diemer talks to Marquez Brown, the Cleveland Regional Director of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME). They discuss the importance of unions, the history of unions in the United States, and the future of unions. They also talk about the PRO Act, a bill that would make it easier for workers to unionize.Some of the topics they discuss include:What is a union?What is AFSCME?Why are unions important?How have unions changed over the years?Should we...
2023-08-2942 min
I AM STORYWe Will Never StopIn the fifth episode of the I AM Story podcast, current labor leaders discuss how the lessons of the Memphis Sanitation Workers’ Strike are as relevant today as they were 55 years ago. Whether it’s building resolve in the face of setbacks, understanding the power of non-violent civil disobedience, the timeless call for safety in the workplace, or how the “I AM A MAN” slogan applies to all workers seeking dignity on the job, I AM Story’s fifth episode is a must-listen for workers everywhere. Hear AFSCME President Lee Saunders bring together SEIU’s Mary Kay Henry...
2023-06-1331 min
I AM STORYStand Up, Don't Sit DownEpisode 4 of the I AM STORY podcast looks at the impact the strike had on the lives of the people involved and the challenges workers have faced in the years since.
2023-05-0931 min
I AM STORYWe Will Not Be Turned AroundSeven weeks after the sanitation strike began, garbage was piling up and the city was feeling the pressure. The labor action was expanding into a mass community mobilization – with churches, student activists, and civil rights organizations and even outside agitators joining the fray. But the mayor and city council had stopped negotiating with the workers. And local media had turned their backs on the strike, ignoring the men’s struggle. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. returned to Memphis to lead a peaceful mass march. As events on the ground unfold, history is shaped, legacies are established, and a new path is forged...
2023-04-181h 03I AM STORYI Am A ManIn the wake of the deaths of Echol Cole and Robert Walker, 1,300 Memphis sanitation workers went on strike. The men were demanding safer working conditions and basic respect for the services they provided. But Mayor Henry Loeb dug in, refusing to recognize their union or even talk to the workers. When a peaceful demonstration elicits a violent response from Mayor Loeb’s police force, it becomes clear exactly what the strikers are up against. The city’s hostility brings local churches, students and civic leaders into the struggle. Rev. James Lawson, a leading advocate of nonviolent resistance, emerges as a chief strate...
2023-04-1141 minI AM STORYThe Breaking PointIn 1968, Memphis sanitation workers faced dangerous and degrading conditions on the job. The mayor showed the men no respect, paying them poverty wages and refusing to recognize their union. During a driving rainstorm on February 1, Robert Walker and Echol Cole were crushed to death as they sought shelter in the back of their sanitation truck, a horrific accident that was the result of shocking negligence by city leaders. That was the breaking point.
2023-04-0442 min
I AM STORYPREVIEW: The strike that shook the nationIn 1968, Memphis sanitation workers went on strike – for dignity, for respect, for recognition of their basic humanity. Courageously, they declared: I AM A MAN. The strike would draw together the labor movement and the civil rights movement in a way that changed the course of history. The I AM STORY Podcast revisits this struggle, telling the story of this strike and everything that happened next. Learn more at IAMSTORY.com
2023-03-2802 min
I AM STORYINTRODUCING THE I AM STORY PODCASTIn 1968, two Memphis sanitation workers, Robert Walker and Echol Cole, were crushed to death in the back of their truck, a horrific accident that was the result of shocking negligence by city leaders. The workers had raised a red flag that trucks in the fleet were unsafe. But the city didn’t recognize their union and had no incentive or inclination to make changes. This tragedy ignited one of the most courageous worker actions in American history: a two-month strike by the city’s entire sanitation workforce. The signs they carried said it all, four words...
2023-03-0302 min
Words and WorkMarcelino Flores - President, AFSCME 449Ted Prezelski talks to Marcelino Flores, newly elected president of AFSCME 449, which represents government employees. Flores talks about his labor advocacy, as well as the workforce development programs he manages for Pima County.
2023-02-0928 min
I AM STORYSNEAK PEEK: I AM STORYIn 1968, sanitation workers in Memphis took a stand against degrading and deadly working conditions. They declared a strike that would lead to a movement that would shake the nation. The I AM STORY podcast tells the story of the sanitation workers who dared to declare: I AM A MAN. Learn more at http://www.IAMSTORY.com
2023-02-0101 min
Council 4 UnpluggedWhat union members need to know about the 2022 election in ConnecticutCouncil 4 Unplugged co-hosts Renee Hamel and Lauren Takores speak with former Connecticut Secretary of the State Denise Merrill on the early voting ballot measure, and with Council 4 Legislative & Political Director Zak Leavy and Council 4 PEOPLE Committee Chair Stephen Wierbicki on member political engagement.
2022-10-1642 min
We The UnionWe The Union - Episode 14 | The Grievance ProcessOn episode 14 of We the Union, we go over the grievance process, which is a very important tool that Unions use to hold employers accountable.
2022-08-0222 minCouncil 4 UnpluggedFighting for a Fair Contract and Blood Donor Safety.Front-line blood collection workers employed by the American Red Cross are rallying for a fair contract and safe staffing levels. AFSCME Local 3145 President Joe Tine and Council 4 Staff Rep Scott Soares join us to discuss how and Red Cross workers are mobilizing in Connecticut and nationwide.
Click here to tell Red Cross that front line workers deserve a fair contract
2022-05-1414 min
We The UnionWe The Union - Episode 13 (Starbucks & Amazon)On episode 13, we dive into the massive organizing drives happening at Amazon and Starbucks.
Videos Clips:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rxx9kCn4Dzk
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3-KMXng5Cp0
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zDeXXQZsups
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BdIIJbvpies
https://www.instagram.com/tv/Cc0WThpgzIB/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
2022-05-1221 min
Let's Talk Law: w/ Wendy M.Let's Talk About: Janus v. AFSCMEIn this episode, Wendy talks about Janus v. AFSCME and labor unions.
2022-04-2911 minWe The UnionWe The Union - Episode 12 (Women's History Month)In this episode, We The Union host Daisha talks about the history of women in the labor movement.
Credits:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4SbJr970Vck&t=10s
https://digital.utsa.edu/digital/collection/p15125coll4/id/1170
https://diva.sfsu.edu/collections/sfbatv/bundles/185999
2022-03-2920 minCouncil 4 UnpluggedReflections on Black History MonthCouncil 4 member-leaders Harold Brooks (Local 3144), Patricia Davis (Local 318) and Claudine Wilkins-Chambers (Local 3429) reflect on Black History Month and the role unions must play in strengthening labor and civil rights.
2022-02-1229 min
Joe Madison the Black EagleAFSCME President Lee Saunders: Don't Wait To Get OrganizedJoe Madison interviews AFSCME President Lee Saunders about the need to continue organizing for voting rights in the United States.
2022-02-0520 minCouncil 4 UnpluggedA Conversation with CT AFL-CIO LeadershipCouncil 4 Unplugged co-hosts Renee Hamel and Larry Dorman visit with the newly elected Connecticut AFL-CIO leaders, President Ed Hawthorne and Executive Vice President Shellye Davis.
2021-11-1216 minCouncil 4 UnpluggedThe privatization of everythingDonald Cohen, executive director of In the Public Interest, joins us to discuss his new book, “The Privatization of Everything.”
2021-10-2129 minWe The UnionWe The Union - Episode 11On this episode of We The Union, I discuss Hispanic Heritage Month with Local 2076 member Jose Balderas. Enjoy!
2021-10-1223 min
DonnyFerguson.comAFSCME union bosses caught illegally seizing money for union PAC from nonmember Maryland school custodianThis episode is also available as a blog post: http://donnyferguson.com/2021/10/08/afscme-union-bosses-caught-illegally-seizing-money-for-union-pac-from-nonmember-maryland-school-custodian/
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2021-10-0903 minCouncil 4 UnpluggedHurt on the Job? Know Your Rights!On this episode we discuss what to do when you're hurt on the job, trends in workers compensation policy and the important role unions play in advocating for injured workers. Our guests are Eric Rentz of the CT Workers Compensation Commission and Council 4 Rep Brett Owen, who chairs our union's Workers Compensation Committee.
2021-09-0722 minCouncil 4 UnpluggedTackling Mental Health Issues on the JobA team of occupational safety experts and front-line correctional employees is developing the tools to help workers cope with job-related mental health stressors. The study holds great promise not just for prison employees, but all workers. Our guests are Asst. Professor Sara Namazi of Springfield College; AFSCME Local 391 President Collin Provost; and Local 391 Executive Board member Stan Sudduth.
2021-07-2230 minWe The UnionWe The Union - Episode 10In episode 10, I interview Mike Sukal, who works for AFSCME International as the Director of Organizing and Field Services. We discuss organizing during a pandemic, as well as major labor stories like the unionizing effort at Amazon.
2021-06-2528 min
Jacobin RadioJacobin Show: Why the Media Sucks w/ Matt Christman & AFSCME Contract Fight w/ Ernest GarrettEvery Wednesday at 6 PM ET, The Jacobin Show offers socialist perspectives on class and capitalism in the twenty-first century, the failures of liberalism, and the prospects of rebuilding a left labor movement in the US. This is the podcast version of the show from June 16, 2021 with Jen Pan and Paul Prescod hosting.
Chapo Trap House co-host Matt Christman joins us to discuss the role of the media under capitalism and the rise of alternative outlets—but more importantly—why the politics surrounding the media matters less than you think. We're also joined by Ernest Garrett, president of AFSC...
2021-06-181h 30Council 4 UnpluggedUpdate on the 2021 Legislative Session.With less than 2 weeks away from the end of the legislative session, Council 4 Legislative and Political Coordinator, Brian Anderson, takes us through where we are at with passing a fair budget and important bills that will protect and uplift workers. We also discuss the importance of the PEOPLE Committee and being engaged in this year’s municipal election.
Click here to urge Governor Lamont and your legislators to provide pandemic hazard pay to essential workers
2021-06-0128 minWe The UnionWe The Union - Episode 9May is Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month so for episode 9, I discuss the contributions of the AAPI community to the Labor Movement and Unions with Emmelle Israel.
2021-06-0139 minWe The UnionWe The Union - Episode 8TW: Suicide
May is Mental Health Awareness Month! To bring more awareness to the importance of mental health, I have a deep discussion with Jordan Vix, who is a licensed clinical social worker and a member of AFSCME Local 2712. You can find her artwork at https://jdunyasha.myportfolio.com/ or on Instagram @jdunyasha23
2021-05-1941 minWe The UnionWe The Union - Episode 7On this episode, I speak with two former Asian Americans Advancing Justice (AAAJ) employees. We discuss the organizing efforts at AAAJ, the unfair labor practice charges they filed, and their recent settlement.
2021-04-2842 min
The Gazette Fact CheckerAFSCME decries state prison staff vacanciesAfter the March 23 murders of a correctional officer and a nurse at the Anamosa State Penitentiary, AFSCME Council 61, the union that represents many prison workers, has criticized the state for understaffing at its prisons.CriteriaThe Fact Checker team checks statements made by an Iowa political candidate/officeholder or a national candidate/officeholder about Iowa, or in ads that appear in our market.We give statements grades from A to F based on accuracy and context.If you spot a claim you think needs checking, email us at factchecker@thegazette.com.
2021-04-2127 minCouncil 4 UnpluggedThe Dilemma of Defunding & Solutions for A Recovery For All.Connecticut is well situated to make genuine progress in addressing its core economic problems by investing in public services, however that has not been the case since the Great Recession. Jennifer Klein, Yale History Professor, and Shahrzad Habibi, In The Public Interest Research and Policy Director, join us to discuss their report “Austerity Versus Reinvestment.” Ed Hawthorne, Vice President of AFSCME Local 269, also shares how disinvestment has hurt the CT Department of Labor in helping unemployed residents impacted by the pandemic.
Click here to read the “Austerity Versus Reinvestment” report
Click here to learn mor...
2021-04-0939 minWe The UnionWe The Union - Episode 6For Social Workers' Appreciation Month, I interview a panel of our members who are social workers and work for Los Angeles County.
2021-03-2642 min
Jay Shakur Uncensored#3. A FIGHT AGAINST LABOR UNIONS?: A Conversation with Mark Janus of Janus v. AFSCMEIn this episode of CTN with Jay Shakur I had the opportunity to speak with Mark Janus of the landmark Janus v. AFSCME supreme court case. We discuss his intent and his journey to the supreme court. KEEP UP WITH JAY SHAKUR:Twitter: https://twitter.com/iamjayshakurInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjayshakurYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCR_GGIsYQlQ6VyIftXkw-CAMAIN WEBSITE: jayshakurshow.com--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/jay-shakur/messageSupport this podcast: https://anchor.fm/jay-shakur/support
2021-03-0329 minWe The UnionWe The Union - Episode 5On episode 5, I interview Reverend James Lawson who is a long time Labor and Civil Rights activist and Council 36 Business Rep. & Vice-President of the National Action Network Lori Condinus. Happy Black History Month!
2021-02-2528 minWe The UnionWe The Union - Episode 4On this episode, I interview Leticia Munguia who is campaigning to represent California's 79th State Assembly district. Tune in to hear her platform and how she plans to help working families. *Apologies for the audio issues*
2021-02-0334 minCouncil 4 UnpluggedTalking InequalityConnecticut is plagued by the inter-related problems of wealth inequality and a regressive tax structure. COVID-19 has made it all worse. Emily Byrne, the Executive Director of CT Voices, addresses these issues and provides useful policy prescriptions.
2021-02-0125 minWe The UnionWe The Union - Episode 3On episode 3, I introduce our new segment the "Union Corner" and I discuss immigration and the labor movement with AFSCME Local 946 member Aiko Marcial Rivera. Enjoy!
2020-12-1231 minCouncil 4 UnpluggedElection Wrap-Up and Worker Agenda For 2021In this two-part series, we discuss the statewide election and worker-focused policy priorities for the next legislative session. Our guests include two new legislators, State Representatives-Elect Kate Farrar (West Hartford) and Mike DiGiovancarlo (Waterbury), as well as Council 4 Political and Legislative Coordinators, Brian Anderson and Zak Leavy.
2020-11-2531 minWe The UnionWe The Union - Episode 2On Episode 2, Francisco Noyola from AFSCME Local 3624 joins the podcast to discuss his recent campaign for Hawaiian Gardens City Council.
2020-11-1722 minWe The UnionWe The Union - Episode 1In this episode we discuss young people in the labor movement with our two interns Rachel and Sarah. Enjoy!
2020-10-3126 minCouncil 4 UnpluggedEngaging Voters In The PandemicElection day is almost here and COVID-19 has changed the voting landscape. Secretary of State Denise Merrill and Local 2663 member and New Haven Alderperson Jeanette Morrison join us to talk about how they're working to engage voters ahead of Nov. 3.
2020-10-2036 minCouncil 4 UnpluggedSafe Schools in the Age of COVID-19
On this episode, we explore the challenges of safely reopening our public schools during COVID-19. Our guests are on the frontline of representing school employees: Council 4 Secretary Stacie Harris-Byrdsong of AFSCME Local 3194 (Capitol Region Education Council); Dan McGinley of AFSCME Local 1303-087 (Putnam Custodians); and Council 4 Staff Representative Tricia Santos.
2020-09-2223 min
Freedom CaliforniaEpisode 6: AFSCME & Stoia V. SEIU 2015Sam Coleman, Mariah Gondeiro and Ashley Varner discuss AFSCME 2620 overcharging their members by nearly 600 percent, a recently filed lawsuit against SEIU 2015, and a hot mic incident in Los Angeles County that has an unelected health officer in hot water.
2020-09-2227 minFreedom CaliforniaEpisode 5: Kamala’s Union Connection, CTA’s Double Standard & AFSCME’s Hateful RhetoricFreedom Foundation California’s Outreach Director Samuel Coleman is joined Mariah Gondeiro, lead California litigator, and Ashley Varner, Vice President of Communications. Join us as we discuss the Kamala Harris – SEIU connection, the California Teachers Association’s double standard and mistreatment of their own union staffers, and AFSCME’s hateful response to an outreach email sent to their members.
2020-09-0335 minCouncil 4 Unplugged#SaveThe600Michele Evermore of the National Employment Law Project and Xavier Gordon of AFSCME Local 269 (representing the CT Department of Labor) join us to discuss the struggles facing unemployed workers and the political fight over unemployment insurance benefits.
2020-08-1927 minCouncil 4 UnpluggedFund the Front LinesCongressman Joe Courtney from CT’s 2nd District joins us to talk about the impact of the pandemic, and the need for a robust federal aid package to support our state, cities and towns.
2020-06-1228 minCouncil 4 UnpluggedBe Counted!Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz and Local 3144 President Harold Brooks, who co-chairs our union's Civil Rights Committee, join us to talk about the importance of participating in the 2020 Census.
2020-05-1423 minCouncil 4 UnpluggedWorkers Memorial Day and COVID-19Steve Schrag and Mike Fitts of the CT Council on Occupational Safety and Health join us on Workers Memorial Day (April 28) to talk about the continuing struggle to protect workers during the coronavirus crisis.
2020-04-2925 minCouncil 4 UnpluggedJournalists Join The Union.Hartford Courant reporter Rebecca Lurye shares her perspective as a journalist covering the city of Hartford and as unit chair of the Hartford Courant News Guild, the newly formed union at Connecticut's oldest paper. We did this interview right before COVID-19, so the supporting the cause of local journalism has become more important than ever. In addition to listening and sharing this, please sign the News Guild's online petition, "Save Our Courant."
2020-03-0928 min
The Long GameAFSCME President Lee Saunders on a contested convention and how adversity rejevenuated his unionLee Saunders is the head of one of the country’s largest unions, the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees. He talks about why union membership has steadily gone down for decades, how an adverse ruling at the Supreme Court rejuvenated his union, and what it takes to lead a large organization effectively.He also talks about the Democratic National Committee process to change the primary rules, and how the Democrats should not change the rules again to help Bernie Sanders avoid a contested convention if he has...
2020-03-0245 min
The Long GameAFSCME President Lee Saunders on a contested convention and how adversity rejevenuated his unionLee Saunders is the head of one of the country's largest unions, the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees. He talks about why union membership has steadily gone down for decades, how an adverse ruling at the Supreme Court rejuvenated his union, and what it takes to lead a large organization effectively. He also talks about the Democratic National Committee process to change the primary rules, and how the Democrats should not change the rules again to help Bernie Sanders avoid a contested convention if he has the most delegates but l...
2020-03-021h 04Council 4 UnpluggedComptroller Kevin Lembo and the State of Our StateHow is Connecticut really doing? We turn to Comptroller Kevin Lembo for fact-based answers on this episode of Council 4 Unplugged. The Comptroller tackles many topical issues, including the certified savings yielded by the 2017 SEBAC agreement, a program to improve access to health care for municipal employees and an initiative to improve government transparency.
2020-02-0327 min
Labor VisionLabor Vision: Public Education Unions & Get to know AFSCME Council 94 In the first half of the show, Erica Hammond sits down with the presidents of two of the largest public sector unions in the state, respectively, Lawrence Purtill of the National Education Association Rhode Island and Frank Flynn of the RI Federation of Teachers and Health Professionals, to talk about their upcoming legislative agenda for the coming year, and their concerns after hearing about a looming deficit and needs for more cuts. In the second half of the show, in another of our "Know Your Unions" segments, Jim Cenerini the Legislative Affairs Coordinator/Lobbyist/Staff Representative for AFSCME Cou...
2020-01-3130 minCouncil 4 UnpluggedThe Perils of PrivatizationFederal, state and local governmental bodies spend $7 trillion of our tax dollars on public services. Is it any wonder big corporations want a piece of that? Donald Cohen of In The Public Interest joins Council 4 to discuss the latest trends in privatization and outsourcing, and how unions must be engaged in the campaign to stop private interests from subverting the public good.
2020-01-0329 minCouncil 4 UnpluggedFighting for Safe JobsPamela Puchalski and Steve Schrag of the Connecticut Council on Occupational Safety & Health join us to talk about the fight for safe and healthy workplaces. Thanks to the efforts of unions and safety advocates like COSH, the lives of more than half a million workers have been saved by strengthening workplace protections. There is much more work to be done, as we learn in a wide-ranging discussion.
2019-11-1830 minCouncil 4 UnpluggedLocal Elections Matter!Municipal election day is Nov. 5, 2019. We visit with two Council 4 members and local office holders who are running for reelection: Manchester Mayor Jay Moran (Local 2836) and Middletown Common Councilor Phil Pessina (Local 1361 retiree).
2019-10-2125 min
Speakeasy IdeasThe Law episode 53: Janus v. AFSCMEIn the 2018 case, Janus v. AFSCME, the U.S. Supreme Court overturned one of its earlier decisions, the 1977 case, Abood v. Detroit Board of Ed. The 1977 Abood decision held that unions could deduct “agency fees” from union non-members without their consent. The Court in Janus, in a 5-4 decision, ended that practice as an unconstitutional violation of the First Amendment.
The post The Law episode 53: Janus v. AFSCME appeared first on Speakeasy Ideas.
2019-10-0331 min
Speakeasy IdeasThe Law episode 53: Janus v. AFSCMEIn the 2018 case, Janus v. AFSCME, the U.S. Supreme Court overturned one of its earlier decisions, the 1977 case, Abood v. Detroit Board of Ed. The 1977 Abood decision held that unions could deduct “agency fees” from union non-members without their consent. The Court in Janus, in a 5-4 decision, ended that practice as an unconstitutional violation of the First Amendment.
The post The Law episode 53: Janus v. AFSCME appeared first on Speakeasy Ideas.
2019-10-0331 min
The Law with D.K. WilliamsEp 53 Janus v AFSCME (2018)In another recent case, the U.S. Supreme Court overturned one of its earlier decisions. The Court overruled a 1977 case, Abood v. Detroit Board of Ed., that said unions could deduct “agency fees” from non-members of the union without their consent. The Janus Court, in a 5-4 decision, ended that practice as an unconstitutional violation of the First Amendment. The case itself:Janus v. AFSCME (2018)From National Affairs:The Trouble with Public Sector UnionsFrom Politifact: FDR opposed public unions Get full access to The L...
2019-10-0331 minCouncil 4 Unplugged"It's About People Getting Help"State correctional officers are pioneering a new kind of employee assistance program through their unions. Our guests are Aaron Lichwalla (AFSCME Local 387), Michael Vargo (AFSCME Local 1565) and Millie Brown (CSEA).
2019-09-2721 min
laborvisionAFSCME Local 1659 Working in a Paramilitary EnvironmentAFSCME represent workers that work in a Paramilitary Environment, speaks on civilians working with officers in the same work environment
2019-09-1943 minCouncil 4 UnpluggedCouncil 4 Union Scholar InternsCollege students Andrea Dominguez and Alexandra Guerrera share their experience and perspective after working with us as AFSCME Union Scholar Interns.
2019-08-2830 min
IndyMattersIndyMatters Episode 101: AFSCME forum and gun controlWe are back from break! On this week’s episode of IndyMatters Editor Jon Ralston sits down with reporter Megan Messerly to chat about the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Democratic candidate forum that Jon co-moderated with Huffington Post Washington Bureau Chief Amanda Terkel. They chat about the different candidates and how they responded to a broad swath of questions. Later in the episode Managing Editor Elizabeth Thompson sits down with Jon to talk about gun control in the wake of several mass shootings that took place in the last few weeks.
2019-08-0929 minCouncil 4 UnpluggedTalking PensionsAlisha Blake of the Connecticut Coalition for Retirement Security joins us to talk about the impact of public pensions and the threats to our retirement security.
2019-07-2924 minCouncil 4 UnpluggedState Legislative Wrap-UpThe 2019 state legislative session brought some victories for working people. Council 4 legislative advocates Brian Anderson and Zak Leavy discuss the outcome and the challenges ahead.
2019-06-2534 minCouncil 4 UnpluggedUConn Health: Public Hospital for the Public GoodThe UConn Health Center is looking to partner with a private corporation – a move that imperils patient care, education and research. Health Center employees Chris DeFranceso (UHP Local 3837) and Elizabeth Appel and Janice Oliveri (UCHC AAUP) talk about the importance of keeping their cherished institution in public hands.
2019-05-2319 minCouncil 4 UnpluggedThe Happiest CountriesWe visit with retired labor leader Leo Canty, who toured the 10 happiest countries in the world, and found a shared respect for workers' rights and the need for a strong social safety net.
2019-04-1620 minTales from the Reuther LibraryReevaluating Comparable Worth: AFSCME’s Pay Equity Campaigns of Yesteryear and TodayIn celebration of Equal Pay Day on April 2, 2019, podcast host and American Federation of Teachers archivist Dan Golodner recounts a time 100 years ago when male teachers tried, and failed, to prevent female teachers from bargaining for pay equity with their male peers. AFSCME archivist Stefanie Caloia discusses AFSCME’s groundbreaking equal pay campaigns for public employees in the 1970s and 1980s, particularly in Local 101 in San Jose, California and Council 28 in Washington state. To alleviate the large pay disparities between male and female public employees, the “comparable worth” of jobs typically held by men and jobs typically held by women...
2019-03-2824 minCouncil 4 UnpluggedCouncil 4 Conservative CaucusCouncil 4 members Frank Ladore (Local 2836) and Jeremy Whetzel (Local 818) join us to talk about our union's new Conservative Caucus.
2019-03-1817 minCouncil 4 UnpluggedConnecticut Working Families.We visit with Lindsey Farrell, State Director of Connecticut Working Families, to learn about the campaigns to raise Connecticut's minimum wage and enact paid family and medical leave.
2019-02-2514 minCouncil 4 Unplugged"The Things We Value."We go in depth with Council 4 Education Coordinator Joe Aresimowicz, who begins his second term as the Speaker of the State House of Representatives, and talks about his union roots.
2019-01-0817 minCouncil 4 UnpluggedThe Election Is Over. Now What?Council 4 Political Coordinator joins us to analyze the 2018 election results in Connecticut and to look ahead to the 2019 legislative session.
2018-11-2816 minCouncil 4 UnpluggedClimate, Jobs & Unions.John Humphries of the CT Roundtable on Climate & Jobs joins us for a timely discussion on the interconnection between labor and environmental issues.
2018-10-2620 minCouncil 4 UnpluggedState Juvenile Detention Center TroublesAFSCME Local 749 members who work at the state's two juvenile detention centers are dealing with the fallout of severe staffing shortages, resulting in forced overtime and workplace injuries.
2018-08-1625 minCouncil 4 UnpluggedElections Matter: AFSCME Members Running for General Assembly.On this episode, we talk to Council 4 union members Caitlin Clarkson-Pereira of Local 2836 and Tony Gennaro of Local 1361, who are running for State Representative.
Caitlin Clarkson Pereira for State Representative
Tony Gennaro for State Representative 100th District
2018-07-2525 min
Policy ShopAn inside look at the free speech victory in Janus vs. AFSCMELiberty Justice Center Director of Litigation Jacob Huebert walks through what it was like to be at the Supreme Court the day of the landmark Janus vs. AFSCME decision, realizing that he and plaintiff Mark Janus restored First Amendment rights for workers across the country. Huebert also debunks common misconceptions about the case and what it means moving forward.
2018-07-2000 min
On the Job with PORACEpisode 4 - "How Janus vs. AFSCME Affects You" with Bob Bonsall, Corporate CounselThe Supreme Court ruling on the case of Janus vs. AFSCME continues to make headlines as public sector labor unions across the country deal with the implications of the slight majority decision. On this podcast, Brian invites special guest Bob Bonsall, PORAC’s Corporate Counsel, to share his expertise on the history of labor unions, the ramifications of the Supreme Court’s decision, and the importance of aligning with your associations and unions.
Although this is a debate that will continue for many years to come, now more than ever, law enforcement is under attack. This is the tim...
2018-07-0312 min
IAFF 7th DistrictEp.5 Janus V AFSCME. Line in the sand.Join us in Kennewick Washington as we sit down during the 79th annual convention of the Washington State Council of Firefighters. Today is Janus V. AFSCME decision day, and a line has been drawn in the sand . Listen in as we have a roundtable discussion with local leaders from east to west, representing large and small local affiliates alike. Tune in to find out what you can do right now to prepare your members, and your local union for this new environment. Follow the IAFF 7th District today on all major social media outlets, find us on
2018-06-2825 min
IAFF 7th DistrictEp.5 Janus V AFSCME. Line in the sand.Join us in Kennewick Washington as we sit down during the 79th annual convention of the Washington State Council of Firefighters. Today is Janus V. AFSCME decision day, and a line has been drawn in the sand . Listen in as we have a roundtable discussion with local leaders from east to west, representing large and small local affiliates alike. Tune in to find out what you can do right now to prepare your members, and your local union for this new environment. Follow the IAFF 7th District today on all major social media outlets, find us on
2018-06-2825 minCouncil 4 UnpluggedJanus Won't Stop Us.Correctional Officers and AFSCME Local 387 members Brian Larson and Ginny Ligi talk about the challenges of their job, the importance of their union, and how they're preparing for the Supreme Court's Janus v. AFSCME decision
2018-06-1118 min
EdNext PodcastEp. 127 - June 6, 2018: Rebecca Friedrichs on Janus v. AFSCMELater this month, the Supreme Court is expected to issue a ruling in Janus v. AFSCME on whether public sector unions should be allowed to collect agency fees from employees who choose not to join the union.
The Court heard a similar case two years ago, Friedrichs v. California Teachers Association.
On this week's podcast, Marty West talks with Rebecca Friedrichs, the lead plaintiff in that case, about agency fees, unions, and what to expect after Janus.
2018-06-0600 minCouncil 4 UnpluggedIntroducing Jody Barr, Preparing for the Supreme Court.Newly elected Council 4 Executive Director Jody Barr talks about his background and the challenges facing organized labor. We also check in with Council 4 legislative advocates Brian Anderson and Zak Leavy about the Supreme Court's pro-corporate tilt.
2018-05-2917 minCouncil 4 UnpluggedOn the Record with Sal LucianoRecently retired Council 4 Executive Director Sal Luciano reflects on his experiences leading our union and the challenging facing the labor movement.
2018-05-1914 minCouncil 4 UnpluggedCourtroom Monitors Sotonye Otunba-Payne and John LanefskiAFSCME Local 749 members John Lanefski and Sotonye Otunba-Payne explain the challenges of working as courtroom monitors and the importance of unions to their lives and the broader economy. We also hear from Council 4 lobbyist Brian Anderson about the latest corporate-backed attacks on workers in the Connecticut legislature.
2018-04-3022 minCouncil 4 UnpluggedOfficer Karen Moorehead / FIST CommissionMontville police officer Karen Moorehead is training for the Boston Marathon on the fifth anniversary of the terrorist bombing. We also look at a commission of CEOs and ultra-rich people who want to decimate collective bargaining rights.
2018-03-0426 min
InfluenceWatch PodcastEpisode 13: Janus v. AFSCME (with guest Mark Mix!)In this episode: Special guest Mark Mix (National Right To Work) discusses the vital Supreme Court case Janus v. AFSCME and his organization's role in it. Watch the video version of the show here: https://youtu.be/W77rkoFY9Ew Learn more about the organizations and influencers discussed in the show at InfluenceWatch.org
2018-03-0144 min
Nurse TalkRN Maureen Dugan Talks About Pivotal Union Case Janus v. AFSCMEThis week U.S. Supreme Court justice Neil Gorsuch, President Trump’s appointee, is expected to be the deciding vote in the pivotal union case Janus v AFSCME. But during oral arguments in the case on Feb. 26, Gorsuch gave no sign which side he’ll take. He asked no questions, made little eye contact with attorneys, and often rested his chin in his hands. California Nurses Association RN, Maureen Dugan spoke with Nurse Talk about the devastating affects this decision could have on Nurses and their patients.
2018-02-2806 minEdNext PodcastEp. 113 - Feb. 26, 2018: Oral Arguments Heard by Supreme Court in Janus v. AFSCMEJosh Dunn, an associate professor of political science at the University of Colorado-Colorado Springs, joins EdNext Editor-in-chief Marty West to discuss oral arguments heard by the Supreme Court Monday, February 26, in Janus v. AFSCME. The case “could overturn decades-old precedent and deal a potentially crippling blow to public sector unions.”
The case was brought by Mark Janus, an Illinois government employee. He argues that he should not be required to pay a fee to the public sector union he has chosen not to join. He sees the required agency fee as a violation of his First amendment rights since the unio...
2018-02-2600 min