SEIU Joins AFL-CIO, Strengthening Labor Movement and Union Solidarity

WASHINGTON – In a significant development for the labor movement, the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) has officially joined the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO). The announcement was met with enthusiasm from various labor leaders, highlighting the potential for enhanced solidarity among unions.

AFSCME's Response

Lee Saunders, President of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), expressed his support for SEIU's decision to join the AFL-CIO. In his statement, Saunders emphasized the importance of this moment for the labor movement, stating, "AFSCME is proud to welcome our longtime ally and partner, SEIU, into the AFL-CIO. This is a momentous development for the labor movement and all working people – especially at a time when billionaires and anti-union extremists will test our strength and solidarity."

Saunders highlighted the aspirations of workers nationwide to unionize and improve their working conditions, stating, "Workers across the country are hungry for the freedom to join a union and to have a fair shot at the American Dream. Together, we will fight to usher in a new era of union power and solidarity."

The move by SEIU to join the AFL-CIO is viewed as a strengthening of the collective power of unions, offering a united front in advocating for workers' rights and confronting challenges posed by wealth disparities and anti-union sentiments.