AFSCME Spotlights Highlight Essential Work of Public Service Members

Essential public services like hospitals, schools, and libraries often operate behind the scenes, and the work that keeps them running smoothly is not always visible to the public. Recognizing this, AFSCME launched the Public Service Spotlights campaign in 2022. This initiative partners with local TV news stations nationwide to showcase the vital contributions of AFSCME members, thereby raising awareness and support for their efforts and union rights.

This year, Public Service Spotlights have been prominently featured in Maryland, Michigan, and Colorado, states where AFSCME is actively organizing. The campaign highlights various job roles, illustrating the important role of public service and the unions that support these workers.

Lansing, Michigan

In Lansing, AFSCME collaborated with WILX News 10 to highlight members from AFSCME Michigan 925 and MSEA. The spotlight included health care workers, state mechanics, groundskeepers, and custodians. Kim Williams, a custodian at the University of Michigan, shared her experiences of creating safe dormitories for freshmen and acting as a "mom away from mom". She emphasized that her union contract enables her to support both her family and the students.

Williams stated, “At Michigan 925, we have fair wages, great benefits, and a great retirement.”

Another featured member, Andrew Skindell, a Parks and Recreation officer, discussed the crucial behind-the-scenes work of maintaining Michigan’s parks. He noted, “[Our union] gives us a seat at the table with management so we can educate and inform them on what we face in the field.”

Baltimore, Maryland

In Baltimore, AFSCME teamed up with WMAR 2 News to focus on Council 3 members, including social service workers and nurses, who are integral to the city's operations. These segments aimed to garner public support for ongoing contract negotiations.

During the summer, Chris Heady, a Howard County Library employee, was featured discussing the importance of providing educational opportunities for children outside the classroom. Heady highlighted the union’s role in advocating for policy changes that enhance library services.

Heady remarked, “Librarians are so committed to serving the community.”

Denver, Colorado

In Colorado, where union organizing has recently gained momentum, AFSCME is establishing a strong presence. The partnerships with KDVR’s Great Day Colorado are enhancing visibility in Denver's media market. These segments introduce AFSCME to the community and encourage public service workers to consider unionizing.

One featured member, Lori Nelson-Carothers, a permanency case worker with the Arapahoe County Department of Human Services, discussed her role in supporting children in need. She emphasized her advocacy at the bargaining table, saying, “We have over 500 members in our union. That gives us strength in telling people the needs that we see.”

Watch all our 2025 Public Service Spotlights below: