WHEREAS:

AFSCME has led the way for over a generation in using effective communications to support one of the most aggressive organizing programs within the American labor movement; and

WHEREAS:

AFSCME is dedicated to reaching even greater organizing goals and objectives; and

WHEREAS:

Committed to even greater success, the women and men of AFSCME have embraced new and creative ways to bring members into our union; and

WHEREAS:

We live in a day and age in which the focus and attention people give important issues are often dictated by the medium used to convey the message; and

WHEREAS:

The effective communication of the benefits this union can provide to new members is critical to future organizing successes.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:

That AFSCME International and its affiliates more effectively integrate strategic communications into all organizing campaigns, recognizing that effective organizing requires effective communication; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:

That AFSCME International and its affiliates rededicate ourselves to finding new and innovative ways to communicate with both existing and potential members and to support organizing drives, contract negotiations and other union activities including, but not limited to, wider use of videos, CD-ROMs, e-mail and the World Wide Web, to finding improved mechanisms for feedback on communications efforts, and to expanding the use of new technologies to improve fliers, brochures, and newsletters; and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED:

That AFSCME International and its affiliates share information throughout the organization regarding the successes of communications efforts in organizing drives to maximize potential success so that AFSCME can continue to grow and thrive.

SUBMITTED BY:

Flora Walker, President and Delegate 
Lawrence a. Roehrig, Secretary-Treasurer and Delegate 
AFSCME Council 25
Michigan