AFSCME President Discusses MLK's Impact on Labor Movement Challenges
In a recent episode of the America’s Workforce Union Podcast (AWF), AFSCME President Lee Saunders shed light on the enduring legacy of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and its significance to the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME). The discussion also covered the union's approach to overcoming modern challenges.
Broadcasted from Cleveland, Ohio, the podcast, hosted by Ed Ferenc, provides a platform for the voices of American workers and their unions.
In 1968, Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. stood with 1,300 Black sanitation workers in Memphis, who had decided that the time had come to demand recognition for their union, AFSCME Local 1733, and to protest against unsafe and degrading working conditions.
Despite counsel to the contrary, Rev. King was unwavering in his support for the strikers. Saunders emphasized, “He was there supporting their right to have collective bargaining. He was there supporting their fight to have a safe workplace and to be paid decent wages.” He continued by noting, “And he understood the connection between civil rights and labor rights and economic rights. He was the messenger for us in Memphis, Tennessee, at that time. If it wasn’t for his involvement, I can’t imagine what would have happened, whether we would have been successful or not.”
Today, AFSCME confronts significant challenges, including opposition from wealthy anti-union factions. However, Saunders assured listeners that the union is prepared to confront these obstacles with the same determination as in the past.
“I believe that workers understand that in order to have a better life, a union is a way to get that better life,” Saunders stated, reinforcing the union's commitment to advocating for better wages, working conditions, and safety measures despite ongoing challenges.
He further remarked, “We are being attacked and we’re still pushing for better wages and working conditions and health and safety measures … and things of that nature. Because that’s what we do. We represent workers. We want to see that workers have a fair shake and they’re being treated fairly. And that struggle will never end.”
To listen to President Saunders’ full interview on AWF, click here.