General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: Oh, good. DU likes unions again. Let's talk about solidarity. [View all]Robb
(39,665 posts)AFGE is affiliated with AFL-CIO. My union (UA) is as well.
The whole point of solidarity is standing together to be stronger. If you pick and choose when you support your union, your union becomes weaker at the bargaining table because the other side knows they can chip away at your membership. Solidarity is support for labor in its most fundamental form.
The right of workers to collectively bargain is essential to democracy. Locals will endorse the local candidates they feel will most advance this cause on their level, based on the wishes and needs of their membership. AFL-CIO will do the same, but at the national level -- with more emphasis on the union movement as a whole, obviously.
And the locals and affiliates will stand together with the AFL-CIO. If you do not belong to a union, but wish to express solidarity with unions from a philosophical standpoint -- which it sounds like you do -- the easiest way to do so is to stand with a national federation.