AFL-CIO

Definition

The AFL-CIO, or the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations, is a major federation of labor unions in the United States, formed in 1955 through the merger of the AFL and CIO. It plays a crucial role in advocating for workers' rights, collective bargaining, and labor policies at both state and national levels, influencing labor relations and workplace standards across various industries.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The AFL-CIO represents over 12 million workers from various sectors, including construction, education, healthcare, and transportation.
2. It plays a significant role in political advocacy, often endorsing candidates who support pro-labor policies and influencing legislation on issues like minimum wage and healthcare.
3. The federation works to strengthen the labor movement by providing training, resources, and support to its affiliated unions.
4. AFL-CIO has a strong focus on social justice issues, advocating for marginalized communities and promoting equity in the workplace.
5. The organization organizes events and campaigns to raise awareness about workers' rights and mobilize support for labor initiatives.

Review Questions

• How does the AFL-CIO influence collective bargaining practices in the United States?
  • The AFL-CIO significantly influences collective bargaining practices by providing support, resources, and training to its affiliated unions. This helps unions negotiate more effectively with employers for better wages, benefits, and working conditions. Additionally, the federation advocates for pro-labor legislation that strengthens collective bargaining rights at both state and national levels.
• Discuss the role of the AFL-CIO in political advocacy and how it impacts labor laws in America.
  • The AFL-CIO plays a critical role in political advocacy by endorsing candidates who support labor-friendly policies and mobilizing members to vote. This influence helps shape labor laws in America by pushing for legislation that protects workers' rights and improves workplace conditions. Their efforts include campaigns for higher minimum wages, healthcare access, and protections against unfair labor practices.
• Evaluate the impact of the AFL-CIO's advocacy for social justice on the labor movement in contemporary America.
  • The AFL-CIO's advocacy for social justice has reshaped the labor movement by broadening its focus beyond traditional worker issues to include marginalized communities' rights. By promoting equity and inclusion within the workplace and society at large, the federation has attracted a more diverse membership base. This shift not only strengthens solidarity among workers but also enhances the relevance of labor unions in addressing contemporary social issues that affect all workers.

Related terms

Collective Bargaining:

The process through which workers, represented by unions, negotiate with employers over wages, benefits, working conditions, and other employment terms.

Labor Union: An organized group of workers that comes together to make decisions about the terms of their work, including pay and working conditions.

Right-to-Work Laws: State laws that prohibit union security agreements between companies and labor unions, allowing employees to work without being required to join a union or pay dues.