AFSCME Council 31 Non-Profit Org

205 N. Michigan U.S. Postage NO. 185 •NOVEMBER -DECEMBER2018 Ave. PAID 21st Floor AFSCME , IL 60601 ELECTION DAYELECTION BIG WINS ON PAGE 3

MOVE Solidarity Solidarity Voters Reject Rauner’s STANDING STRONG AFSCME MEMBERS Anti-Union Agenda PAGE 5

Wins

AMERICAN FEDERATION OF STATE, COUNTY STATE, OF FEDERATION AMERICAN AND MUNICIPAL EMPLOYEES - AFL-CIO - EMPLOYEES MUNICIPAL AND COUNCIL 31 31 COUNCIL ILLINOIS

AFSCME, WORKING FAMILIES PREVAIL AE 8-9 PAGE

2 On the Move November-December 2018

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT

On The MOVE AFSCME Illinois On the Move is Rauner’s loss is published six times annually by Illinois Public Employees Council 31 of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal workers’ win Employees, AFL-CIO. Send correspondence to: [email protected] or: A 15-point trouncing is a rejection AFSCME, On the Move, 205 N. Michigan Ave., of his anti-union agenda 21st Floor, Chicago, IL 60601

Roberta Lynch, Executive Director Mike Newman, Deputy Director Nell McNamara, Editor Tom Greensfelder, Designer

COUNCIL 31 EXECUTIVE hen an incumbent governor loses by 15 points—something BOARD OFFICERS that hasn’t happened in Illinois since 1948—voters are Executive Director doing more than picking a candidate. They are choosing Roberta Lynch State Sector Executive W Vice-President sides. That’s why ’s 54-39 trouncing means more than the loss of an election. Paired with the rout of his hand-picked Ralph Portwood, Local 1866 Private Sector Executive candidates and legislative enablers, the results were an emphatic Vice-President rejection of Rauner’s anti-union agenda and his four years of attacks Yolanda Woods, Local 2481 on working people. University Executive Vice-President Ellen Larrimore, Local 1989

BY Local Government Executive Rauner’s mission was to thousands of AFSCME mem- nois voters overwhelmingly Vice-President ROBERTA LYNCH weaken unions and render bers since 2011. repudiated Rauner and his John Rayburn, Local 1215 workers defenseless. His There’s no doubt that mean-spirited anti-worker Secretary models were Wisconsin and these have been the most agenda. They rejected candi- Dave Delrose, Local 1028 Michigan, where governors difficult four years many dates willing to do Rauner’s Treasurer stripped workers’ rights, then AFSCME members have faced bidding and divide our state, David Morris, Local 805 RAUNER AND slashed wages, health benefits on the job. Rauner’s strategy opting instead for leaders and workplace protections. was to belittle public employ- who want to move Illinois BOARD MEMBERS HIS CRONIES Rauner’s chief target ees in the press, starve us of forward together. Our neigh- State Conference Board THOUGHT was the public sector, and resources needed to do our bors in Wisconsin joined Co-Chairs because more than 35,000 jobs, and to act unilaterally– us in demanding an end to Gary Ciaccio, Local 29 WE WOULD AFSCME members in state and illegally—to drive down division and chaos by taking Kathy Lane, Local 448 government were his employ- our incomes. down Rauner’s hero, Gover- Tim Worker, Local 993 CRUMBLE. WE ees, his sights were set first We never wavered, and nor Scott Walker. PROVED THEM on our union. for that, every AFSCME Yet even as we celebrate, REGION I VICE-PRESIDENTS But today, after Illinois member has reason to be we know the way forward Phil Cisneros, Local 3969 WRONG. voters delivered Rauner’s proud. Where Rauner and won’t be easy. There are con- Safiya Felters, Local 2854 pink slip, AFSCME is still his cronies thought we would tracts to negotiate, pension Lloyd Marshall, Local 3477 here and standing strong. crumble, we summoned every underfunding to address, and Stephen Mittons, Local 2081 An outcome like this ounce of our solidarity, grit a lingering budgetary crisis, Kobie Robinson, Local 3835 doesn’t just happen, of and persistence to prove the hangover from Rauner’s Crosby Smith, Local 2645 course. For AFSCME mem- them wrong. years of mismanagement in bers and our allies, it’s the Those battles weren’t the form of billions of dollars REGION II VICE-PRESIDENTS result of four years of stand- easy—and some aren’t over of late fees and unpaid bills. Terry Boone, Local 672 ing together, fighting and yet. Rauner’s illegal freeze on And our enemies like the Garry Cacciapaglia, Local 1058 winning, time and again. step progression has thou- Illinois Policy Institute aren’t Carlene Erno, Local 2615 We fought off Rauner’s sands of state workers and going anywhere. They’ll con- Tom Opolony, Local 89 attempts to strip collective their families falling behind. tinue to try to score political Yurvette Simmons, Local 3237 bargaining rights from all Our jobs, often demanding points by blaming unions and Miguel Vazquez, Local 3297 public employees in Illinois, and even dangerous, are that union members for whatever no matter if they worked for much more difficult due to ails our state. REGION III VICE-PRESIDENTS state or local government, his inattention to the oper- As we go forward, we Shaun Dawson, Local 2073 school districts or universi- ations of state government have good reason to believe Lori Gladson, Local 51 ties. We turned back continu- and his constant media that JB Pritzker, Juliana Steve Howerter, Local 3585 ing attacks on pensions. attacks. Stratton and the strong leg- Melanie Hoyle, Local 2600 State employees stood And we have to keep islative majorities we helped Matt Lukow, Local 1964 strong in our fight for a fair rising up in the aftermath of to elect will be the opposites Trudy Williams, Local 3433 contract, even through an the Janus case that Rauner of Bruce Rauner and his fol- unprecedented and powerful filed and backed all the way lowers. We will no doubt have REGION IV VICE-PRESIDENTS strike authorization vote, to the US Supreme Court. our differences, but we can Jerry Grammer, Local 1175 staving off Rauner’s phony Despite that profound polit- expect them to respect our Tad Hawk, Local 1805 claim of impasse and his ical assault meant to weaken rights, value our work, and Chris Milton, Local 799 scheme to impose massive and divide us, through the work with us in good faith. Cary Quick, Local 141 hikes in health care costs and AFSCME Strong program of Most importantly, we unfettered privatization of signing up former fee-payers have the knowledge that we TRUSTEES our jobs. We repeatedly chal- in every worksite, we actually came through the Rauner Tom Brown, Local 3654 lenged him on picket lines, in have more dues-paying mem- years together, stronger than Jeffrey Reighter, II, Local 2856 the media and in the courts, bers today than we did before ever, with a renewed sense of Tamara Rietman, Local 3693 and we beat him in every the Janus decision. unity and determination that legal battle. As we move forward will serve us well as we meet RETIREE CHAPTER 31 REPRESENTATIVE In the midst of all that, now, we do so knowing that the challenges to come. we secured legislative approv- Rauner’s anti-union crusade Larry Brown al for the back pay owed to was a massive failure. Illi- November-December 2018 On the Move 3

Voters reject Rauner, slam door on anti-worker agenda

overnor Bruce Rauner’s 54-39 re-election loss to challenger JB GPritzker rightfully took up the headlines, ending Rauner’s one-term tenure with a resounding defeat. But just as importantly, pro-worker candidates swept the other statewide offices and expanded their legislative majorities.

“Illinois voters did more on Villa, Mark Walker, Terra Costa Election Day than defeat Bruce Howard, Joyce Mason, Jennifer Rauner and end his four years Gong-Gershowitz, Diane Pap- of conflict and failure,” AFSCME pas, Bob Morgan, Daniel Didec Council 31 Executive Director and Anna Stava-Murray also Roberta Lynch said. “Voters prevailed. Mary Edly-Allen’s across the state came together and Maggie Trevor’s races were to support working people and too close to call at printing. to repudiate not just Rauner At the county level, personally but his mean-spirited, AFSCME-endorsed candidate anti-worker, anti-union agenda Kevin B. Morrison pulled off a up and down the ballot.” remarkable upset in Cook. He “This victory is overwhelm- knocked out Tim Schneider, ing. I’m so excited and proud,” chairman of Bruce Rauner’s said Don Wanack, president of state Republican Party. Several AFSCME Local 943 at Pinck- union-backed candidates won neyville Correctional Center and in Champaign, Lake (flipped to one of AFSCME’s most dedicated Democratic control for the first volunteers. time), Will and DuPage coun- “We had this humongous ties, and many more statewide. struggle, but every time it looked Nine AFSCME members bleak, we withstood it. We’ve and retirees ran for local and endured the fight of our lifetime. state offices. Jay Ferraro (retiree), Rauner wasn’t able to do to us Beth Musser (Local 3323), Carlos what Scott Walker did to workers Acosta (Local 2833), Michele in Wisconsin. We need to rec- Hansen (Local 3693), Danny ognize the power we have as a Williams (Local 29) and Charlene union. We’ve got so much to look Eads (Local 29) ran for coun- forward to.” ty-level positions. Amy Davis AFSCME-recommended (retiree), Carolyn Blodgett (Local candidates (Attor- 51) and Gregg Johnson (retiree) ney General), made a bid for seats in the Gen- (Comptroller), eral Assembly. Acosta won his (Secretary of State) and Michael race. While the others fell short of Frerichs (Treasurer) won the election, their efforts put work- other constitutional offices. ing-family issues on the agenda.

Top: AFSCME members celebrate GOTV efforts with JB Pritzker. | Bottom: AFSCME member volunteers working on Election Day. “Voters opted for leaders who want Randy Hultgren, who voted key role throughout the election of government,” said Robert progress to benefit everyone.” to take health care away from cycle, endorsing dozens of can- Dybas, a Local 2854 member millions of Americans and to didates, making sure members who volunteered every weekend give a trillion-dollar tax cut to were informed and encouraging in the Chicago area. “I am very wealthy people and big corpora- them to get out and vote. happy with the voter turnout Raoul comfortably overcame National tions, paid for by cutting Social AFSCME volunteers were and the election results.” Rauner’s hand-picked candidate, Security and Medicare. Brendan an important part of the Illinois “We look forward to work- Erica Harold. political shift Kelly and Betsy Londrigan also AFL-CIO’s Labor 2018 effort, ing with JB Pritzker, Juliana In the , win- Election night saw a huge mounted strong challenges. making calls and knocking on Stratton, Kwame Raoul, Susana ning candidates supported by shift in the national political “Voters rejected candidates doors on behalf of union-rec- Mendoza and every other new AFSCME included incumbents landscape. Democrats took willing to do Rauner’s and ommended candidates in the officeholder and returning Andy Manar and Tom Cullerton, control of the US House of Trump’s bidding and to divide weeks leading up to Election incumbent to put Illinois back along with newcomers Christo- Representatives, ensuring a our state and country,” Lynch Day. on track,” AFSCME Council 31 pher Belt, Rachelle Aud Crowe, check on anti-worker, discrimi- said. “They opted instead for On Nov. 6 itself, more than Director Lynch said. Ann Gillespie and Suzanne Glo- natory initiatives by the Trump leaders who want progress to 500 active and retired AFSCME “We won’t agree on every- wiak. As On the Move went to Administration. benefit everyone, not just the members across Illinois took thing, but these leaders have press, Laura Ellman was leading. In Illinois, a pair of Congres- wealthy few.” part in the labor coalition’s get- expressed an understanding In the state House, sional seats changed hands in out-the-vote efforts. that everyone who works for a AFSCME-backed incumbents Chicago’s west suburbs. AFSCME “I found it imperative living deserves family-sustain- Jerry Costello and Katie Stuart endorsees Sean Casten and Union shoe to get the message across ing wages, affordable health held their seats, as did appoin- Lauren Underwood defeated to voters that their vote is care, retirement with dignity tee Monica Bristow. Newcom- entrenched, pro-corporate leather important and needed in order and a strong union voice on the ers Lance Yednock, Karina incumbents Peter Roskam and AFSCME members played a to create change at all levels job.” 4 On the Move November-December 2018

Jackson County employees refuse to back down Threat of strike forced county to provide fair wages, health care

authorize a strike for the first the life of the agreement. time in the local’s history. Throughout the contract The day after the union’s fight, the members of Local vote, the county agreed to come 2464 stuck together. They wore back to the table and voted to green union shirts and brace- overrule its impasse decision. lets every day. They put green The parties resumed negoti- placards on their cars. They ations with the help of a federal made calls to county board mediator and a tentative agree- members and enlisted friends ment was reached. Union mem- and family to do the same. And bers ratified the agreement soon their fellow members stood after, but the county continued with them every step of the to drag its feet, leaving the con- way. tract off the agenda of its next “The county thought they county board meeting. were in the driver’s seat, but “The process could have the bargaining team was able dragged out another month, to flip the script,” said Local but we made it clear that if they 2464 President Matt Whelan, didn’t get this thing finalized, an EMS worker for the county. we’d be out on the streets,” “Through hard work and cour- Noelle said. age they mobilized to put enor- The union set a strike date, mous pressure on their elected AFSCME Local 2464 members rally together at the Jackson County board meeting. demanding that the board call a officials.” this contract are members of special meeting to vote or they Despite being ready to do AFSCME Local 2464. They do would walk off the job. whatever it takes, the member- fter unanimously authorizing a strike, critically important work for The threat of a strike was ship heaved a collective sigh of Jackson County employees won a the county, including handling timed perfectly to have the big- relief when the contract was new union contract with fair pay and tax collections, property tax gest impact, Crabtree said. “This finalized. A exemptions, elections and time of year is election time, “Nobody wants to strike,” affordable health care. more. tax-bill time, appeal time. This Crabtree said, “and after a long “The county was trying to is when they depend on us the fight, it made us feel appre- In September, union members the cost of health care for fix their budget problems on most.” ciated when they saw how were shocked when county employees, doubling premiums our back, but without us they The county board arranged important we are.” administrators walked away and increasing co-pays and out- have nobody to do these jobs,” a special meeting and—with a “This experience showed from negotiations and declared of-pocket expenses. said Tammy Ehlers, another bar- strike date looming—approved us that we have power,” Ehlers impasse. “We knew that the county’s gaining team member. “We felt the agreement unanimously. agreed. “We pushed harder “We were making progress offer meant that some of our enough was enough. We were than ever before and we were at the table,” AFSCME Council people would be going home nervous about the possibility of a 100% united.” 31 Staff Representative Jeremy with less money than they had strike, but we couldn’t afford not Winning “If we weren’t in a union, Noelle said, “so we felt com- now,” said Robin Crabtree, to do it.” we would have gone home with pletely caught off-guard, espe- a member of the bargaining Crabtree and Ehlers joined together less pay, higher health insur- cially since the county’s last, team. “And we didn’t want to with their fellow bargaining team The new four-year con- ance premiums and decreased best and final offer was worse take that.” members Jill Stokes and Saman- tract includes three-percent coverage. But we stuck together for employees than the propos- tha Shepherd to put the county’s annual pay increases each year and fought to ensure we had als already under discussion.” offer to their fellow members. and a modest rise in health decent pay and fair health care The county’s demands Ready to strike The membership voted unan- insurance premiums that’s coverage. We accomplished that would have substantially raised Employees covered by imously to reject the offer and implemented gradually through together.”

unprepared to deal with our modern correctional system. Instead of reaching out to staff Union turns to arbitration to to help solve problems, they are ignoring them,” said Caumiant. “The union should be more directly involved in policymak- address violence in DOC, DJJ ing and implementation and we hope the arbitrator will give us a clear path to do that.” risk of being beaten, of losing grievances and ongoing discus- As On the Move went to FSCME members across the state their lives, because of severe sions at the facility level, and print, the state was putting understaffing, poor facility pushing the agencies to par- forth its case, with the union’s are working together to help reduce conditions and lack of staff ticipate in a Joint Safety and rebuttal set for December. violence between inmates and involvement in policymaking,” Security Committee process A decision won’t likely come A said Eddie Caumiant, AFSCME statewide. Now AFSCME mem- until after January, when new against staff in Illinois adult and juvenile Regional Director and liaison bers are trying a new ambitious governor JB Pritzker will take correctional facilities. to the departments of Cor- approach based on the health over. rections and Juvenile Justice. and safety provision in the “We hope to be able to sit With data showing that issues long raised by local “We want to force the state to state contract. down with the new adminis- assaults on staff have risen unions. establish and maintain safe Caumiant says union tration, armed with the results dramatically over the past Many locals are involved working conditions by working members should be at the of this arbitration, and be able three years, Council 31 has in the case, with member with us.” table where policy decisions to work together to address filed a mass health and safety witnesses providing testi- The union has long sought are made because they are an the entire range of problems arbitration case—similar to a mony on assaults and facility this objective using every integral part of putting those AFSCME members face in class action grievance—cov- conditions. tool at its disposal, including policies into practice. these agencies,” Caumiant said. ering a host of incidents and “AFSCME members are at labor-management meetings, “The state is woefully November-December 2018 On the Move 5

Building power through unity AFSCME members stand strong in face of attacks

importance of unions from her assistance with my education dues, if you’re here for your father, a state employee like her- and affordable health insur- union, we’re there for you. hen a June 27 US Supreme Court self. But until recently, she didn’t ance,” Ground said, “and we You’ve got protection.” ruling banned fair-share fees, believe that those hard-fought never would have received the Many local unions also AFSCME was ready. Local union gains could be taken away. back pay we were owed.” utilize a variety of other tools to W “It was a light-bulb Ground has also relied on keep their members informed activists had already been organizing and moment,” Ground said. “I the union contract’s provision and engaged with union activity. reaching out to members and non-members realized that if we don’t have allowing flexible work schedules Holtgrave said to ensure a unified membership and the so that she could care for her consistent communication with alike. Now, six months after Janus v. AFSCME resources we need, we won’t be daughter and ailing fatherin-law. members working in three dif- brought “right to work” to the public sector able to negotiate effectively or Most importantly, though, she ferent shifts, she and a network to enforce our contract through realized the value of unity when of officers and stewards use nationwide, AFSCME Strong—the union’s the grievance procedure and Rauner tried to impose massive Facebook and a text-message power-building program—continues to build the courts. We would lose what increases in the cost of state app called Mobile Text to quickly strength throughout the union. everyone fought so hard to get.” employee health insurance. share information. These tech- That realization led Ground nologies can’t replace that regu- to not only join the union but lar one-on-one conversation, but AFSCME activists’ goal is to talk case—including outgoing gover- to become a steward. Now she Moving forward they can supplement it. to every employee represented nor Bruce Rauner and the Illinois reaches out to other non-mem- Every new hire receives a by their local unions, explaining Policy Institute—don’t care about bers to encourage them to join together one-hour new-member orienta- the benefits of union member- working people; indeed, these the union too. She shares her AFSCME members are feeling tion and the local is developing a ship and stressing the impor- positive in spite of the Janus committee to ensure continued tance of solidarity for strength ruling. The key is educating communication over time. at the bargaining table, in the members about what the union All their hard work has paid workplace and beyond. “One-on-one talks are the best way is really about and showing sol- off. Of the 432 employees rep- “One-on-one talks are the for employees to understand why we idarity to new employees, said resented by AFSCME Local 401, best way to reach people,” Local Jim Smyser, president of Local 431 are members. 401 President Sara Holtgrave have to stay together as a union.” 3821 and a wastewater treat- That’s indicative of a state- said. “When you take the time ment plant operator at the city wide trend: Working people are to have those conversations and of Mattoon. rejecting the deceptive rhetoric listen to concerns, employees get forces are actively trying to drive personal story and explains why “We’re not a real big local from anti-worker forces who all their questions answered and down workers’ standard of living. the union has meant so much to but we’re all headstrong in want to persuade union mem- really understand why we have Jackie Ground was a fair her and her family. the union way,” Smyser said. bers to drop out. Instead of divi- to stay together as a union.” share fee-payer with AFSCME “Without the union I would “We have good conversations sion, iron-clad unity is flourish- Holtgrave works as a mental Local 2600 in Springfield for not have received raises over amongst ourselves. We let new ing in unions across Illinois and health technician at the state’s many years. She knew the historic the years, promotions, financial people know if you pay your across the country. Warren G. Murray Developmen- tal Center that was threatened with closure in 2012. Holtgrave said it was solidarity—of the membership, aligned with the parents and broader commu- nity—that made the state back off its plan and keep the facility open. Holtgrave shares that story with new employees to demonstrate the importance of unity. “We formed a lot of bonds during the closure process,” she said. “We realized that we all have each other’s backs.” Today, the local is stronger than ever. When they face diffi- culties with management, mem- bers know from experience that they can’t afford to be divided.

From fair share to activists AFSCME members are focus- ing their efforts on bringing former fair share fee-payers into the union. Now that paying a fair-share fee is not an option, non-members are joining the union because they don’t feel it’s right to pay nothing while benefiting from union accom- plishments made possible through the dues willingly paid by co-workers. Others realized that the forces behind the Janus Council 31 Regional Director Eddie Caumiant and Local 401 members Luberta Lytle, Jennifer Pearson, Josh Meier and Sara Holtgrave at the 2018 International AFSCME Convention. 6 On the Move November-December 2018

Cook County AFSCME members ratify new contract County workers showed unity despite revenue crisis

were determined to hold the looking forward to sizeable, have been able to implement line on health care costs.” hard-earned jumps in pay and whatever they wanted,” Mar- FSCME members in Cook County now they will get those.” shall said. “But when we’re government won a new union contract Marshall has worked for united with a common goal that ensures economic progress for Stronger the county for 27 years and at the bargaining table, we’re A together is currently a supervising able to work out a deal that’s 5,000 county employees and maintains their best for everyone. That’s what affordable health insurance plan. a union is all about.” The bargaining team AFSCME members who The 90-person bargain- with a long list of conces- succeeded, protecting health “We were work for Cook County bar- ing team representing 14 sionary demands, including care coverage and contribu- gained for more than a year, local unions (1111, 1178, big hikes in employee health tions, stopping the county’s determined to so they were at the table when 1276, 1767, 2060, 2226, care contributions and freez- proposed step freeze, and hold the line the Janus Supreme Court 3315, 3477, 3486, 3692, ing step increases. We were winning two-percent raises decision came down on June 3696, 3835, 3958, and 3969) determined to resist those in each of the final years of on health care 27. reached a tentative agree- takeaways.” the contract, plus a lump-sum costs.” “I’ve negotiated three ment on September 5. Union The county was also look- bonus for the first year. or four contracts and by far members ratified it in a coun- ing to cut overtime pay, elim- “Even when it seemed this was the most trying of ty-wide vote on September inate a floating holiday and management would never all of them,” Marshall said. 12. cap the accumulation of sick give any ground, our union probation officer at the Cook “But when it came to Janus, “Cook County faces days. But protecting health stuck together, protected the County juvenile court. In part we were prepared for it. We severe revenue problems, care was perhaps the import- gains we’ve made over time because of the pop tax repeal, pushed the AFSCME Strong especially after the loss of ant issue for union members, and made further progress,” his local and others under program and it gave us the the sweetened-beverage tax Local 3447 President Lloyd Thornton said. the Office of the Chief Judge opportunity to step up and revenue,” AFSCME Council Marshall said. “Protecting our step voted to take furlough days in speak with all our members 31 Regional Director Helen “We knew the county was increases was huge,” Marshall order to prevent layoffs. individually as they recom- Thornton said. “The admin- facing a tough economic situ- said. “People coming up to “If we didn’t have the mitted to the union. It actu- istration came to the table ation,” Marshall said, “but we steps in their careers were union, management would ally made us stronger.”

AFSCME stands up for fairness Worried? Overwhelmed?

go back on their word,” said PSP Can Help! wo AFSCME members were doing the Maggie Lorenc, AFSCME legal counsel on the case. AFSCME’S Personal Support work of a higher job classification “The fact that the dif- Progam (PSP) offers free, without getting the recognition—or ferent representatives of the T employer could not agree professional, confidential wages—they deserved. on how to move forward in honoring the grievance res- assistance to represented Through the union, they advo- Rodriguez decided to do some- olution was not the fault of cated for themselves and won thing about it. Rodriguez and Tatekey and employees and their covered restitution. “I consider myself a team should not have impeded their dependents. Both Aurora Rodriguez player, but it was so frustrat- reclassification.” and Amos Tatekey are AFSCME ing to find out that I had been AFSCME took that argu- Local 3696 members at the here for years doing the work ment to arbitration and the Call 800.647.8776 Cook County Public Defender’s and not getting any credit arbitrator agreed. Both union Office. With the help of local for it,” Rodriguez said. “And members were granted reclas- stewards Monique Hodges I could have kept doing that sification and back pay to the Dugar and Valencia Ross, and nobody would have said date they originally filed their Tatekey, an administrative anything. So I took it to the grievances. assistant, filed his grievance union.” For Rodriguez, that meant for reclassification in October Rodriguez and Tatekey a year and five months of pay 2016 and Rodriguez in Febru- won their grievances at Step 1. and a priceless sense of stabil- ary 2017. But the fight wasn’t quite over. ity. She had been in the process Rodriguez had been work- Months after the grievances of applying for another posi- ing for years in her division as had been granted, the county tion that would have increased a stenographer. She gladly took refused to honor the grievance her commute and time away on extra work and stepped up resolutions and tried to delay from her family. Instead she when her co-workers were out or prevent both employees’ was able to stay in the office of the office. Over time her job reclassifications by demanding she preferred doing work she responsibilities significantly an audit be done first. enjoys. increased. But when she found “The local knew these “The bottom line in this out that other divisions had cases were important to office is helping the clients,” administrative assistants doing take on. We argued that the Rodriguez said. “I’ve always the same work at a higher clas- employer must respect the liked working with people that sification and for better pay, grievance process and cannot need help.” November-December 2018 On the Move 7

AFSCME members reach agreement with City of Chicago City employees building stronger union

AFSCME Council 31 Deputy Director Mike Newman addresses the city of Chicago bargaining team, which included representatives from six AFSCME local unions: 505, 654, 1215, 1669, 2912 and 2946. by declaring an emergency, employees had to take the days Building a fter more than a year of difficult restricting the use of earned consecutively and immedi- holiday time, refusing pro- ately, including the day of the stronger union negotiations, AFSCME members who fessional standards course funeral service. work for the city of Chicago ratified a reimbursement, and cutting Library pages will con- Throughout negotiations, weekend overtime pay. tinue to be paid the liv- the union was able to build its A strength though the AFSCME new union contract on October 3. The committee also ing-wage or minimum-wage won several other important rate that applies to city con- Strong program. Comprised of four bargain- times,” said Susan Littlefield, changes to benefit members. tractors and concessionaires, “We took the opportunity to ing units, the membership president of Local 2912 and Bargaining team member whichever is higher. These bring in new members while giv- encompasses more than 3,500 a member of the bargain- John Rayburn, president of rates would not apply to city ing bargaining updates,” said Lit- employees in administrative ing committee. “Everybody Local 1215, said he’s most employees but for the union tlefield. “We started with more and clerical, human services, contract. than 100 fee-payers in my local inspection, animal control, The city will make and at the end of negotiations professional and library matching contributions on a we were down to just 12.” positions. “Without question, our unity and dollar-for-dollar basis up to When Janus hit, the payroll Led by Council 31 Dep- $250 each year to an employee department mistakenly refunded uty Director Mike Newman strength was a powerful force that 401(a) plan starting in 2020. every member’s union dues. and including representatives helped to achieve this contract.” The maximum will grow to But instead of losing members, from each of six AFSCME local $500 by the end of the con- local leaders were bombarded unions (505, 654, 1215, 1669, tract. Employees will be able to by phone calls and emails from 2912 and 2946), the bargain- use these funds toward health members and former fair share ing committee never wavered. worked hard and diligently to proud of this win. insurance after retirement. fee-payers wanting to pay dues. “We were committed keep what we have and add “I started as a library page, While employee health “Without question, our to securing a contract that some important perks.” which is a part-time position,” insurance premiums will grad- unity and strength was a power- continues to provide access In addition to proposing Rayburn said. “To see the day ually increase by 1.5 percent ful force that helped to achieve to high-quality, affordable an unacceptable economic that part-timers can now earn of salary, this will be the first this contract,” Newman said. health care and builds on the package, management sought paid sick time is a blessing by increase in premiums as a per- Now AFSCME members economic gains and workplace other concessions. The bar- itself.” centage of salary in 12 years. are determined to build an even rights achieved in previous gaining committee success- Employees are now able Overall wage increases of 11 stronger union in the city of Chi- contracts,” Newman said. fully rejected provisions that to take paid bereavement percent compounded through cago. The new contract includes “That’s exactly what we did.” would have allowed changing leave any time within 60 days the life of the contract more improvements in policies around “I’m very proud of the work schedules and detailing following a family member’s than make up for that modest new member orientations with contract we got in these trying employees without notice death. In the old contract, bump. that goal in mind. SolidaritySolidarity Wins!Wins! WORKING PEOPLE FOUGHT RAUNER EVERY STEP OF THE WAY TO VICTORY

“Rauner suggested removing wages, pensions, vacation, Illinois Public Employees Prepare for fringe benefits and work hours from the list of topics on which a Bruising Fight with Bruce Rauner unions are allowed to bargain.” In These Times, Dec. 3, 2014 Illinois Issues, Oct. 22, 2015

Rauner crushes Is Illinois headed Rauner's war on unions prospect of further for a strike by state union negotiations union workers? brings Illinois to the brink Chicago Tonight, Feb. 24, 2017 MyStateline.com, Jan. 12, 2016 Chicago Reporter, Dec. 8, 2016

Appeals court blocks Rauner wants Thousands of Union Members Rauner from forcing lawmakers’ help to contract terms on cut state workers’ Rally at Illinois CapitolABC, May 18, 2016 AFSCME health insurance by State Journal-Register, Mar. 3, 2017 $470 million , Feb. 16, 2018

RAUNER’S LOSING LITIGATION ime and again throughout his term in office, Bruce Rauner put every penny of that $6 million towards repaying state workers for took illegal actions that AFSCME went to court to overturn. the wages he unlawfully denied. It happened when he issued an executive order blocking Tfair-share fees, with his unilateral freeze on step increases More stalling on step increases and when he unilaterally declared “impasse” in state contract negotia- Since an appellate court ruled last fall that Rauner acted illegally in tions and tried to impose his demands. freezing state employee step increases, his administration has done In each of these cases, the Rauner administration used taxpayer everything possible to evade its responsibility to pay employees what funds to hire outside counsel—a private law firm—to represent him, they are owed. The appellate court remanded the case back to the Illinois instead of the Attorney General’s office. Labor Relations Board to put forth a remedy. In July the board issued a According to state records obtained by AFSCME under the Free- clear statement that employees should be placed on the proper steps dom of Information Act, Rauner wasted $6 million on legal bills to just and made whole for wages lost. one management-side law firm. Given that he has continued to fight Rauner immediately offered up reasons why the money couldn’t be myriad losing battles since, including the steps and impasse cases, it’s paid. The labor board then directed its compliance officer to provide more a safe bet that the figure will end up even higher. specific guidance as to how the administration should meet its obligations Instead of handing it over to high-priced lawyers, Rauner should’ve to employees. The compliance officer set Oct. 1 as a deadline to end the SolidaritySolidarity Wins!Wins! WORKING PEOPLE FOUGHT RAUNER EVERY STEP OF THE WAY TO VICTORY

Rauner vetoes $15/hour Illinois lawmakers override budget Rauner’s anti- wage for caregivers union position of developmentally veto, ending two-year stalemate prevents an Illinois disabled budget deal Chicago Tribune, Aug. 26, 2016 New York Times, Jul. 6 2017 Crain’s Chicago Business, Jul. 1, 2017

Janus Decision Didn’t Kill Labor Unions AFSCME declares another victory Daily Illini, Oct. 25, 2018 over Rauner on step increases Capitol Fax, Jun. 13, 2018

Unions won big on Election Day – Rauner wants lawmakers’ help to a victory for working people cut state workers’ health insurance by $470 million Chicago Sun-Times, Nov. 7, 2018 Chicago Tribune, Feb. 16, 2018

illegal step freeze and place all employees on their proper steps. the power to unilaterally impose the terms of his final offer. Once again the administration defied this legal directive and instead AFSCME strongly disputed that the parties were at impasse and sent an 18-page letter to the compliance officer, claiming that it would take repeatedly sought to restart good-faith negotiations, but the labor board months to calculate step placement and how much employees are owed. complied with Rauner’s request. AFSCME went to court and won an order It was all too clear that the administration would continue to evade blocking implementation while the union appealed the board’s decision. responsibility so AFSCME filed a motion to compel the labor board to seek In October, a unanimous three-judge panel of the Fourth District a direct court order enforcing compliance. The Rauner-appointed board Appellate Court ruled in AFSCME’s favor, finding that the Illinois State had yet to consider the union’s motion when On the Move went to print. Labor Relations Board was “clearly erroneous” and that the parties were not at impasse. Appellate court rejects Not surprisingly, the court also found that the Rauner administration Rauner’s impasse claim had engaged in bad-faith bargaining in violation of labor law. Rauner made an array of extreme demands of state employees in bargaining, including no pay increase for four years, a 100 percent hike What’s next? in employee costs for health care that would cost the average worker Governor-elect JB Pritzker has said he is prepared to restart thousands of dollars a year, and a free hand to privatize public services negotiations for a new state contract. AFSCME will make it a top priority without oversight. to undo the wrongs that Rauner has done to state employees over the Then on Jan. 8, 2016, he walked away from negotiations, declaring past four years—and especially to press for swift restoration of step that the parties were at impasse and asking his labor board to give him increases. 10 On the Move November-December 2018

“We need a union” Willowglen DSPs join AFSCME Council 31

“These kids need consistency,” Willowglen DSP Chelsea Kruger said. “We banded together so we can make things better.”

meet,” Knox said. “This has led close-knit group came out in “Staff morale has already ith a desire to improve their lives to a very high turnover rate, force, and a vast majority voted started to go up” since the elec- which isn’t good for the people to join AFSCME. tion, Knox said, and she believes and ensure consistency for a we serve.” “The union staff let us know that once members elect rep- vulnerable client population, nearly Kruger agreed. “These kids our rights and told us what the resentatives to the bargaining W need consistency,” she said. union could help us achieve,” committee and determine their 100 employees of Willowglen Academy in “When you’re short-staffed and Knox said. “It was scary, worrying priorities for contract nego- Freeport voted October 17 to form a union people are drained, they aren’t with AFSCME Council 31. going to do their best. They aren’t going to stay. We banded “Our clients need this change as Willowglen Academy is a pri- feel they aren’t valued by man- together so we can make things vate facility that provides care agement. That neglect has a better.” much as we do. A union will be a to children and adults with negative impact on both the intellectual and developmental clients and the workers’ own game-changer for them.” disabilities. families and lives. Organizing “I really love working with “We needed a union the kids. It’s powerful because because we need consistency together that the administration would tiations, that trend will only you’re really making a difference and fairness in the workplace,” The organizing committee retaliate against us, but I’m proud continue. in people’s lives,” said Chelsea said Rosetta Knox, a DSP who spent time talking to fellow that in the end we were able to “A better workplace with Kruger, who’s been a para-ed- works the night shift. She helps employees about changes they come together so quickly, and higher wages will make people ucator and direct support per- clients with their medication, wanted and how they felt about that the majority decided that we want to come to work and do sonnel (DSP) at Willowglen for nutrition and hygiene needs. getting a union. They worked needed to be heard. We advocated their jobs well,” she said. “Our 11 years. “We’re able to get [our Knox, who has a disabled hard to make sure as many for ourselves.” clients need this change as clients] to experience and learn adult son, said compassion and people participated in the union “I knew that most people much as we do. We care about new things and have fun doing respect motivates her to do this election as possible because they would be on board because so the individuals we serve, and it. It’s awesome.” work. She wants to be focused wanted a united front. many changes need to hap- having a union will be a game- on solutions that will improve The workers were so ready pen, but to be there when they changer for them.” care at Willowglen. for a voice on the job that the counted all those ballots felt “We won our union. The Change needed “We haven’t had a raise in organizing process went quickly. phenomenal,” Kruger said. “It first hurdle is done but now we eight years, so people are work- In just two months the employ- sent a message: We’re here, lis- have more to do,” Kruger said. While the staff is dedicated ing 24 to 80 hours of overtime ees were ready to vote. ten to us. It was a huge victory “I’m thrilled and excited to see to the people they serve, they a pay period just to make ends On election day, the and it felt really good.” what we can do together.” November-December 2018 On the Move 11

Anti-worker forces tighten grip on Supreme Court

collective bargaining at the fed- eral level in his majority ruling ith the confirmation of Brett in a case involving members Kavanaugh to replace retiring of the American Federation of Supreme Court Justice Anthony Government Employees at the W Department of Defense. Kennedy, President Donald Trump and “Kavanaugh has consis- Republicans have stacked the bench. tently sided with corporate interests” and will “find any interpretation of the law that A far-right, anti-worker major- anti-worker forces. helps corporations avoid their ity is poised to reinterpret But after Trump was obligations to working peo- U.S. law to benefit wealthy elected, Gorsuch solidified the ple,” said Sen. Patty Murray of people and big corporations for 5-4 conservative majority that Washington, the ranking Dem- decades to come. in June sided with the super- ocrat on the Senate Committee The Kavanaugh appoint- rich and against workers in on Health, Education, Labor ment was made far more Janus v. AFSCME Council 31. and Pensions. meaningful because it fol- Kavanaugh’s nomination The senator pointed out lowed last year’s elevation was rocked by a slew of accu- a dissenting opinion where of Neil Gorsuch to the high sations of sexual assault and Kavanaugh argued “that cor- court. Gorsuch wound up misconduct, as well as serious porations should be allowed in the seat as a result of the questions about his char- to create sham, spin-off com- brazenly political hijacking acter and suitability for the panies in order to skirt their of the appointment process position. The nation watched responsibility to negotiate with by Republican senators who, as Dr. Christine Blasey Ford workers and their unions for after the unexpected death of described specific and credible better wages, working condi- Justice Antonin Scalia in 2016, assault allegations against tions, and benefits.” refused to consider President Kavanaugh, who denied them. Kavanaugh will fit right ’s nomination of The Republican majority in on a Supreme Court now Merrick Garland. quickly approved the nomina- skewed to favor corporate New Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh has a pro-corporate, anti-worker record. What difference can one tion and Kavanaugh was sworn interests. seat make? Consider that while in on October 6. has put working people at risk Kavanaugh said the worker Aggressively and strate- Scalia’s seat stood empty, the In addition to concerns by defending corporations with took that risk and that requir- gically pursued by the radical court deadlocked on Friedrichs about his personal character, dangerous and unsafe working ing employers to protect work- right, lawsuits seeking to over- v. California Teachers Associ- Kavanaugh has a track record conditions.” ers from on-the-job dangers turn other long standing prec- ation, a case that would have of holding corporate interests In a case against SeaWorld was too “paternalistic.” edents and strip workers and banned fair share fees in the above the rights and safety of where a trainer was killed by Kavanaugh argued that their unions of workplace rights public sector, a long-sought working people, according to an orca whale with a record of the Secretary of Defense will be that much more difficult objective of well-funded the AFL-CIO. Specifically, “he aggression toward humans, should be allowed to abolish to stop for years to come. AFSCME grievance clears employee records

that it was an uphill battle, but they wanted to take the fight FSCME Local 2226, which represents all the way and they knew the lieutenants at the Cook County Jail, union had their back.” “We made a good argu- took a series of grievances for five ment and the burden of proof A fell on the sheriff and his employees to hearing and won the whole group. team,” Luna said. “We pre- Local president Chuck Luna at the grievance stages and vailed in all five cases.” and chief steward Kieran many unproductive labor-man- Luna has been a lieu- Mundt drove the process, with agement meetings to discuss tenant at the county since AFSCME Council 31 attorney a fair and just disciplinary 2002, before the workers orga- Scott Miller serving as legal process, Luna and Mundt were nized a union with AFSCME in counsel in the expedited hear- determined to take a stand. 2006. He knows how import- ing. Each case concerned a “We could have settled, ant it is to have the resources wrongful discipline grievance but these members didn’t do and ability to pursue cases like of a lieutenant with a perfect anything wrong,” Luna said. these. record. “There was no violation of the “Before the union, I was Instead of using corrective contract or general orders. We disciplined, and going through and progressive disciplinary had to pursue it as a matter of that was aggravating and measures, management principle.” stressful,” Luna recalls. “Now ignored the employees’ side “Management was issuing we have the right to fight of the story and simply issued discipline with a super heavy these kinds of things and we suspensions, Miller said. hand and the environment is don’t have to do it alone. We After several failed very oppressive,” Kieran said. can fight together as a union.” attempts to resolve the issues “We warned members going in Local 2226 chief steward Kieran Mundt and president Chuck Luna pursued justice. 12 On the Move November-December 2018

ON THE LOCAL LEVEL

Bob Rever, Stephanie Buzzo, Darius Morrow and Amy Sommerfield. The city and community development units gained power at the table by joining forces instead of negotiating separately, Ferraro said. Much of the work done at the table was improving contract language, especially around paid time off. Employees at the 911 call center are now able to use comp time in one-hour incre- ments, will have 12-hour holi- day pay (equal to one full shift) instead of eight, and can’t be forced to work overtime the day preceding a vacation. Another important gain for the 911 workers is a period of guaranteed rest between shifts. “These employees have a stressful job and work a number of days in a row,” Loudermilk said. “We thought it was important that they AFSCME Local 1919 members at the village of Schaumburg: Lissa Alonso, Arika Staron, Tom Todd, Lynette Johns, Norma Higgins, Sandy Golliher and Deb Diamond. have at least 12 full hours of Pay, sick City of Rockford rest between shifts to prevent burnout.” time gains in “After working years and earning employees Public works employ- hundreds of hours of sick time, I was ees who clear ice and snow Schaumburg reach deal in the winter months often Village of Schaumburg told I couldn’t use one day.” More than 200 members of work on-call for 12 hours at a employees’ fight for a fair con- AFSCME Local 1058 and time and must be available to tract has ended with a big win 1058B decided they would come to work immediately if for the members of AFSCME felt after working years and take one or two days of vaca- have more power at the table required, receiving two hours Local 1919. The union bar- earning hundreds of hours tion with only a day’s notice. if their two bargaining teams of pay per “standby” shift. gaining committee tentatively of sick time when I was told Previously two weeks’ notice joined together for negotia- “But we bargained so that agreed to terms for a new four- I couldn’t use one day of that was required to take even a sin- tions. As a result, they won a now we can use those two year contract in late August, accumulated time to care for gle day off. three-year contract with gains hours as paid time off to spend and the unit of 150 employees my spouse.” “After 15 long months in wages and paid time off. with our families,” Loudermilk unanimously ratified it on Going forward, sick time of negotiations, we’re very Negotiations took place said. “This is especially import- Sept. 12. can be used to care for parents, happy with the gains we made over several months. Led by ant around the holidays when The agreement came after spouses and children. in this contract,” said Debbie retired AFSCME staff repre- employees may have to miss members of the local mobilized What’s more, every Diamond, an animal control sentative Jay Ferraro, staff family gatherings when they’re over the summer to pack a Vil- employee is due to receive ret- officer and the president of representative Chris Hooser on-call.” lage Board meeting and mount roactive pay increases dating AFSCME Local 1919. and local president Christina All employees will now an email campaign targeting back nearly a year and a half to AFSCME Council 31 Staff Loudermilk, the bargaining have a full holiday on Christ- village leaders. May 2017 when the previous Representative Matthew Lange team included Tony Garcia, mas Eve (formerly a half day), Under the new contract, contract was slated to expire. led negotiations with Diamond AJ Indovina, Lisa Kingsavanh, Loudermilk said, and can use AFSCME members achieved Union members won and bargaining team members Tracy Pauley, Laura Anderson, sick leave to care for anyone one of their top priorities: another family-friendly pro- Tom Todd, Norma Higgins and Steve Mangruen, Sue Whitley, in their family unit, not just a gaining the right to use vision with the added right to Sandy Golliher. Julie Michalsen, Ron Reinagle, spouse or child. accrued sick time to care for their immediate family. The matter was dramatically illus- trated in testimony before the Village Board by 23-year employee Norma Higgins, who despite having earned hundreds of hours of sick leave over her career was unable to use it care for her husband when he had cancer. “Every day, the employ- ees of Schaumburg come to work with one goal in mind: to provide the highest quality municipal service. All we ask for in return is fair compensa- tion and respect on the job,” Higgins told the board. “One can imagine the disappointment and hurt I AFSCME Local 1058 members at the city of Rockford won a new union contract by sticking together at the bargaining table. November-December 2018 On the Move 13

The union did agree to a people that keep the university city-limit residency require- running,” Diaz said. “We work ment for future hires, a policy hard to get the job done well that the administration is but they’d rather just get some- implementing city-wide. body else in here and pay them Every employee received a less.” two percent cost-of-living raise Diaz said he and his retroactive to Jan. 1, with no co-workers aren’t done fight- increase in health insurance ing. The union is still holding costs. The contract will be the employer to task in enforc- reopened in 2019 and 2020 for ing the new contract. wages and one additional issue “NIU has continually designated by each party. cancelled labor-management meetings and is dragging their feet on paying all wage NIU local increases,” Dorner said. “We’ve filed a class action unfair labor building power practice charge to get that rem- A new contract with edied and have a labor board Northern Illinois University hearing scheduled for Novem- didn’t come without a fight for ber 20.” the nearly 300 building service, In the meantime the union housing and dining employees continues to build strength. of AFSCME Local 963. The Part of the contract includes workers clean and maintain two paid union meetings per classrooms, buildings and month, where members can residential halls, and cook and meet to discuss union business serve the food in the cafeterias. 15 minutes before their shift “After a year of bargaining, ends. The members are ready they led us to believe we were to use this new tool to make close to getting a contract,” their union even stronger. AFSCME Council 31 Staff Rep- “We will keep moving for- resentative Sara Dorner said. ward and making further prog- “We came to the table expect- ress,” Diaz said. “We’re still ing to wrap it up and instead fighting and we know we’re they suddenly demanded a not alone. We have each other’s massive concession to get rid backs.” of the step plan.” The bargaining team After a federal media- included Dorner and Diaz tor was called in, the union plus Local 963 President Tim thwarted management’s Gray, Vice President Patrick attempt to freeze everyone’s Sheridan, Shelly Ruby, Andy wages, winning a five-year Pecarelli, Recording Secretary contract with three-percent Adam Harper, Jason Hutchi- raises in each of the first three son and Larry Fay. years of the contract and a wage reopener for the final two years. The members ratified it McHenry Clerk’s overwhelmingly. Local 963 members, including Manny Diaz, presented a petition to NIU President Dr. Lisa C. Freeman demanding a fair contract. The bargaining team also Office wins first secured wage adjustments for contract general election, employees in members who will be coming to their base pay. the most underpaid job clas- the office who handle taxes, on, and we have a wide range For health insurance, sifications—some as much Employees at the McHenry records, deeds, licenses, elec- of ages, issues and experi- members can now switch to as a three-dollars-an-hour County Clerk’s Office ratified tions and more wanted to have ences,” Massey said. “We the plan of their choosing increase—by showing how their first union contract in a contract they could depend made sure the contract was instead of being forced into their low pay compared to September, making gains in on no matter who was in office. broad enough to encompass a high-deductible plan. The other universities. wages, benefits and workplace Their unit is now a chapter an expanding family and union also got strong language “We fought long and hard protections, all enforceable of the newly formed AFSCME address all those different restricting outsourcing. to provide a better income for through a grievance process. The contract was ratified those of us who are struggling Led by AFSCME Council in the old county jail, which and still have to work two 31 Staff Representative Colin is now a local restaurant. In jobs to make ends meet,” said Theis, the bargaining commit- “We were bargaining for ourselves 1895, legendary labor leader Manny Diaz, a member of the tee included Meghan Honea, and for new members Eugene V. Debs served a federal bargaining committee and Cheryl Zito and Melissa prison sentence there follow- building service chapter chair. Massey. These new union who will be coming on.” ing the historic Pullman labor “It was a long process but we leaders learned what can be strike. achieved what we set out to accomplished at a bargaining Now the employees of do.” table. Local 1748, which also rep- concerns.” the McHenry County Clerk’s Diaz and his co-workers “We are very happy about resents the county probation The team won raises of office are part of labor his- feel a constant threat of out- it. We feel much more secure,” department. Employees of the 2.25 percent each year retroac- tory, too. sourcing and don’t feel valued Massey said. recorder’s office will also join tive to Dec. 1, 2017. They con- “It’s a whole new world,” or respected for the work they Indeed, job security is a the local when that office is solidated job titles with new, Massey said. “We are very do to contribute to the institu- big reason why she and her merged with the clerk’s office higher pay rates. All employ- excited and very reassured. tion, he said. co-workers decided to form two years from now. ees will also get a lump-sum And that’s what the union has “We are looked down on a union. With the clerk’s “We were bargaining for increase based on their years of given us. It’s a unanimous feel- by management yet we are the seat open in the November ourselves and for those new experience that will be added ing.” 14 On the Move November-December 2018

SHORT REPORTS

Larry Taxi Marquardtdrivers and Scholarship rideshare drivers Winners: rally (left together to right) at Chicago’sGabriel Dunbar, City Hall. Cortney Powell and PatriciaAFSCME Santelices members Larry joined Marquardt in a rally Scholarship to support Winners: striking (left hotel to work right)ers. Gabriel Dunbar, Cortney Powell and Patricia Santelices

Workers kept to the groups rallied together for the Cab Drivers United, Chicago’s states, where “the lowest-in- Chicago hotel picket lines for weeks until first time at City Hall to urge taxi union, which organized come 20 percent pay up to six workers win hotel management began common-sense reforms like with the help of AFSCME times as much of their income settling contracts, one by one those adopted by New York Council 31. “Taxi drivers and in taxes as their wealthy strike for health or in small clusters. Workers last August, including putting rideshare drivers alike strive counterparts.” care remained on strike at only a moratorium on new for-hire to provide quality transpor- In Illinois, the lower tation to Chicago residents your income, the more you’re A September strike by and visitors and feed our taxed. Those with incomes UNITE HERE Local 1 mem- families,” he said, “but Chi- in the lowest 20 percent pay bers who work in 26 down- cago’s regulations are broken an average of 14 percent of town Chicago hotels was the and all drivers are suffering.” their income in state and local largest action of its kind in Although the city’s regula- taxes while those in the top 1 the city’s history. It ended tory double-standards have percent of incomes only pay 7 in wins for workers and pitted drivers against each percent in taxes. their union, including on the other in the past, members That’s why AFSCME has strike’s central issue, access of Cab Drivers United and consistently advocated for fair to health care coverage for the newly formed Chicago tax reform, including a consti- hotel employees who are laid Rideshare Advocates are tutional amendment to allow off during the slow winter working together for stron- for graduated tax rates that season. ger and more even-handed require the wealthy to pay After voting over- regulations. their fair share. whelmingly to authorize a “We are asking the city of “While state and local strike when their contracts Chicago to step in and bring taxes can’t eliminate income expired, thousands of hotel some long overdue regula- inequality, well-designed sys- housekeepers, door staff and tions,” said Lenny Sanchez of tems can help lessen the prob- restaurant workers fighting Chicago Rideshare Advocates. lem,” said Meg Wiehe, ITEP’s for fair treatment walked off “We need a fair, safe, trans- deputy director. “Meanwhile, the job on Sept. 7. parent system that works for it’s clear that steeply regres- Over the years their United for fair treatment and better regulations, rideshare and taxi drivers join forces. everyone, not just wealthy sive systems only make it union has won gains in wages investors in Uber and Lyft.” worse.” and benefits, but hotels have Amending the Illinois increasingly been cutting staff one hotel—the Cambria Chi- vehicle licenses. Constitution requires a super- and overloading workers. cago Magnificent Mile—as On Over the past three years majority of the state Senate At the same time, Chicago the Move went to press. the number of licensed ride- “Who Pays”? and House to approve a res- hotels raked in more than $2 share vehicles in Chicago has Not the rich olution putting the question billion last year. The workers quadrupled to more than on the ballot, then approval knew they had to stand up to 117,000, making it nearly Most state and local bod- by 60 percent of voters at the demand their share. Ride share, impossible for either ride- ies tax the rich at much lower next statewide election. “We’re tired of being share or taxi drivers to earn rates than households with In the 2018 legislative stepped on when these bil- taxi drivers a living. Rideshare compa- low to middle incomes. That’s session, Republican lawmakers lion-dollar corporations are join forces nies like Uber and Lyft have according to Who Pays, a blocked passage of the needed getting all this money,” said increased the cut they take new analysis of tax systems resolution, but with big Larry Lewis, 39, an 18-year Chicago taxi drivers and out of drivers’ earnings while nationwide by the Institute changes in the composition of housekeeper at the Palmer rideshare drivers are uniting the city continues to charge on Taxation and Economic both legislative bodies coming House Hilton and a father of to call on the City of Chicago struggling cab drivers the Policy (ITEP). out of the November election, five. “They forget that we’ve to level the playing field and same high fees and taxes. Illinois is no exception. In advocates point to new oppor- made these places five-star, ensure a living wage for all Nnamdi Uwazie is a vet- fact, it’s ranked in the group’s tunities to move forward on world-wide-class hotels.” drivers. On Oct. 31, the two eran taxi driver and leader of “Terrible Ten” most regressive this vital issue. November-December 2018 On the Move 15

RETIREE NOTES

Hearing aids for AFSCME

AFSCME retirees from Sub-chapter 16 (with US Rep. Robin Kelly) volunteered to get out the vote. members and retirees and I am incredibly proud. Our Hearing loss develops The program assures that members knew that this year’s slowly and can go unnoticed participants are dealing with election would have had dire for years. But those with reputable providers and allows consequences if we didn’t work untreated hearing loss suf- them to purchase hearing hard.” fer from poorer physical and aids at discounts of up to 70 “Our livelihood was at emotional wellbeing and can percent from several different stake,” Sub-chapter 60 Pres- experience extremes of anger, manufacturers. It includes ident Mary Jones said. “We frustration, anxiety, depres- three years of repair warranty, worked hard for what we have, sion and social isolation. loss and damage coverage, but retirees and working fami- The AFSCME Advantage cleanings, check-ups and free lies were being attacked for just benefits program includes batteries. No-interest financ- living our lives. That’s why we access to the National Hear- ing is an option for many, and phone-banked all the way up ing Aid Discount Benefit Plan. those who already have hear- until the election.” Working and retiree AFSCME ing aids can purchase extended “Retirees could not afford members and extended family warranties. to sit out this election. Every- who may need help with hear- This AFSCME mem- thing that we worked for as ing loss can register for free bers-only benefit is provided Sub-chapter 86 member Liam McDonnell phone-banking for Labor 2018. state employees was threat- annual hearing screenings through Hear in America. Call ened,” Sub-chapter 163 Presi- at a nationwide network of 1-800-286-6149 to register the opportunities to see and dent Clyde Wilson agreed. “As locations. for a free screening. Retiree activism speak with labor-friendly retirees in Illinois, we were at contributes to candidates. On the campaign the mercy of a government that trail, JB Pritzker said that he doesn’t care about us. We had big election wins saw me everywhere. I’m glad to make a change.” Retirees from all cor- our newly elected governor And change was made. JB ners of the state worked dili- saw how active AFSCME retir- Pritzker and Did you know? gently to help labor-friendly ees are.” will take office on January 14. candidates in the November “Our members love volun- “We are keeping the union To be an AFSCME Retiree Chapter general election. teering for election work. We strong so that retirees and “Chapter 31 members had a solid group at every walk workers can continue to live 31 member, you must sign an wrote letters, addressed and phone bank around Spring- quality lives with dignity,” AFSCME Chapter 31 membership envelopes, walked in parades, field,” Sub-chapter 86 Presi- Todd said. “I couldn’t be hap- card after you retire! knocked on doors, made phone dent Don Todd said. “We have pier that we ran out Rauner’s calls and worked on Election a dedicated group of retirees clock.” Retiree dues are only $3.00 a month and Day,” Sub-chapter 55 President will be deducted directly from your pension John Weir said. “We made sure check upon your authorization. we had boots on the ground across Illinois to protect our By joining AFSCME Retiree Chapter 31, retirement security.” you’ll be taking a stand for retiree rights The hard work paid off. JB and improved benefits. You’ve earned Pritzker ousted Bruce Rauner your retirement benefits; now join the fight as governor and AFSCME-en- to protect them. Become a member of dorsed candidates across the state prevailed (see page three AFSCME Illinois Retiree Chapter 31 today— for election details). it’s the best investment a retiree can make! “I helped plan eight AFSCME Labor walks and For more information or to request a we had great attendance,” membership card, please contact Kate Sub-chapter 87 President Morthland, AFSCME Council 31 Retiree David Spinner said. “Retirees Coordinator, at 217.788.2800 also attended endorsement events, giving our members AFSCME members and retirees from Sub-chapter 87 walking precincts for Labor 2018. Tell us about your job at SAVE. I’m a direct care-giver at St. Clair Associated Vocational Enterprises (SAVE), a [state-fund- ed] not-for-profit organization that provides employment opportunities for adults with disabilities. My job is to teach our clients in the vocational programs how to complete tasks involved in the contracts we receive from employers to help them learn the skills they need to work. I’ve also been working a lot of overtime lately in our housing program. We go into clients’ homes and help them cook and clean, take them to places they need to go like the store, the bank or the beauty shop. We make grocery lists with them and help come up with new, simple meal ideas that they can cook safely.

What’s your inspiration to Paula Johnson go to work every day? Our clients motivate me. I’ve been working AFSCME Local 1831 here for more than 22 years and they are always so happy to see me. I go to work for ST. CLAIR ASSOCIATED them. They are positive about everything, as VOCATIONAL ENTERPRISES (SAVE) if they don’t have a worry in the world. Teaching them skills and building trust it all—they like having to get up and go to else couldn’t. If they didn’t like you, you make my work very meaningful. Their work work too. might not be there anymore. With a union, instills a feeling of their self-worth. They there is fairness. don’t care how big their paycheck is, they What have you learned Having a union also gives us the ability are just so happy to get one. to really advocate for our clients. We can go I love seeing their excitement. from your career at SAVE? to management if something isn’t fair or isn’t Working here makes you feel like you don’t right for them. If I ever did something else, want to take anything for granted. Some of it would be to become a full-time advocate “Teaching the clients our clients were in car wrecks or suffered for people with disabilities. There’s so much from injuries that changed their life forever. more we should be doing. skills and building And some have had challenges since birth. There are little things all the time that trust make my work make me stop and appreciate what I have. How has your job very meaningful. I took a client to a clothing store. She affected your family? grabbed some clothes and was ready to I’ve worked here since my oldest son I love seeing their leave and I said, ‘Don’t you want to try those was just a baby. Our clients know my hus- excitement.” on?’ I helped her into a fitting room. band, they know my kids, and they love On the way back, we were both singing having them here. Throughout the year— along to a song in the car. After the song and especially during the holidays—we ended she turned to me and said, ‘Thank have parties, banquets and dances. Our you, Paula, I’ve never done that before.’ I kids grew up coming to the parties and How does your job provide said, ‘But you have shopped for clothes dances. It’s had a huge impact on their a valuable public service? before.’ And she said, ‘Yeah, but I’ve never lives. Our clients have built motors for fur- gotten to try them on first!’ She was so thank- My son is a sports fanatic—he’s what naces, worked on the state license stickers, ful. you would call a jock. There was a kid at rolled up silverware sets for a catering com- There are a lot of little stories like that. his school who was disabled and he was pany, compiled screw kits for furniture sets They appreciate the little stuff and now I do being teased by other jocks. My son stood and more. too. up for him. He told his friends to leave Our clients’ work is benefiting compa- him alone, that that’s not cool. Being part nies in the community because we can help How does your union of SAVE, my son learned that every life is them with their work. And our clients benefit important. from those jobs. It’s a place for them to go improve your work? every day. It gives them a feeling that they If we didn’t have a union, one person might belong somewhere. That they are part of be able to get by with stuff that someone