NO. 192 • JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2020 COUNCIL 31 AMERICAN FEDERATION OF STATE, COUNTY AND MUNICIPAL EMPLOYEES - AFL-CIO MOVE PAID AFSCME U.S. Postage U.S. Non-Profit Org Council 31 Ave. 21st Floor 205 N. Michigan 205 N. Michigan , IL 60601 Chicago, AFSCME

SAFETY FIRST MARCH 17 IS ORGANIZING FOR IN CORRECTIONS ELECTION DAY UNION RIGHTS PAGE 3 PAGE 7 PAGES 8-9 2 On the Move January-February 2020

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S On the MOVE REPORT AFSCME Illinois On the Move is published six times annually by Illinois Public Employees Council 31 of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, AFL-CIO. The Union Difference Send correspondence to: [email protected] or: AFSCME, On the Move, 205 N. Michigan Ave., is our nation’s hope 21st Floor, Chicago, IL 60601 Building stronger unions helps lift us all up Roberta Lynch, Executive Director Mike Newman, Deputy Director Nell McNamara, Editor Tom Greensfelder, Designer

COUNCIL 31 EXECUTIVE BOARD OFFICERS BY ROBERTA that he would take down public Executive Director LYNCH employee unions—and held up a Roberta Lynch hicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot recently state budget for two years trying State Sector Executive sponsored a Summit on Poverty aimed at to force that annihilation—Dem- Vice-President ocratic state legislators held firm Ralph Portwood, Local 1866 developing a strategy to lift all of the city’s in defending workers’ rights to Private Sector Executive C collective bargaining. Vice-President WE residents out of poverty. It’s a more than worthy goal and the mayor deserves credit for putting As a last resort, the enemies Yolanda Woods, Local 2481 of labor turned to the courts, CANNOT BE Local Government Executive the issue front and center. where Donald Trump’s recent Vice-President appointments to the US Supreme John Rayburn, Local 1215 COMPLACENT For too long, residents of commu- choices that have eroded union Court cemented a judicial brigade nities across our state have been membership nationwide, mid- all too ready to further weaken Secretary Dave Delrose, Local 1028 struggling to get by, living from dle-class income has stagnated unions in our country. The result paycheck to paycheck or strug- and the gap between the rich was the infamous Janus ruling in Treasurer gling even to find jobs, especially and the rest of us has grown ever 2018 that allowed union-repre- David Morris, Local 805 jobs that pay a living wage. wider. sented employees to refuse to pay In fact, despite the nation’s The decline in union mem- union dues. BOARD MEMBERS steadily declining unemploy- bership is no accident of fate But we regrouped and State Conference Board ment rate, good jobs in our coun- or economic fortunes. It’s a fought even harder. Co-Chairs try are still all too hard to find. purposeful strategy designed Public employees did not Melanie Hoyle, Local 2600 By good job, I mean a fam- to shift more of our country’s drop out of their unions in the Kathy Lane, Local 448 ily-supporting job. One that wealth to the already-wealthy. wake of the Janus ruling—in fact, Tim Worker, Local 993 doesn’t require you to hold a sec- The tactics used to dimin- many former feepayers signed ond job, that provides benefits ish or demolish unions are var- up as full dues-paying members. REGION I VICE-PRESIDENTS like affordable health insurance ied and not always visible. We As workers in all sectors realized Phil Cisneros, Local 3969 and a retirement plan. In other tend to think that union density the forces aligned against them, Safiya Felters, Local 2854 words, for the most part, I mean declined with the decline of the many became even bolder. Teach- Lloyd Marshall, Local 3477 a union job. manufacturing sector in our ers staged statewide walkouts in Stephen Mittons, Local 2081 Fifty years ago, Dr. Mar- country. But those good jobs West Virginia, Arizona and Okla- Kobie Robinson, Local 3835 tin Luther King said the most didn’t just wander off overseas. homa. Thousands of autoworkers Crosby Smith, Local 2645 effective anti-poverty program They were deliberately moved to went out on strike. Workers in in America is a good union. countries that lacked unions and high-tech firms like Amazon and REGION II VICE-PRESIDENTS Especially for women and peo- had an abundance of desperately Google organized pickets and Terry Boone, Local 672 ple of color, that remains truer poor people willing to work for other direct actions. As Republi- Garry Cacciapaglia, Local 1058 than ever today. Last year, union vastly lower wages. cans solidified their all-out war on Tom Opolony, Local 89 members earned 23% more than In the ensuing years, the unions, Democrats became even Yurvette Simmons, Local 3237 nonunion workers. assault on the labor movement stronger advocates for workers’ Among women, the has been waged in the courts, rights. Carlene VanDyke, Local 2615 union difference in wages was media, state and federal legisla- We still have a very long Miguel Vazquez, Local 3297 even greater at 29%. For Afri- tures, and of course in the polit- journey on the road to ending can-Americans, wages were 27% ical arena. poverty and ensuring that all REGION III VICE-PRESIDENTS higher, and for Hispanics, 39%. Few examples have workers have a decent standard Shaun Dawson, Local 2073 So having a strong union been more dramatic than the of living. Those of us who have Steve Howerter, Local 3585 is one of the best predictors of near-obliteration of public sec- made it some part of the way Matt Lukow, Local 1964 whether a job will pay a fami- tor unions in Wisconsin after because we have strong union Jeffrey Reighter, II, Local 2856 ly-sustaining wage. A union con- Republican governor Scott representation cannot be com- Trudy Williams, Local 3433 tract that ensures equal pay for Walker joined with a Repub- placent. If the powers-that-be equal work is the best bulwark lican-controlled legislature to succeed in “defanging” the labor REGION IV VICE-PRESIDENTS against gender inequity and enact laws that made it virtually movement as one right-wing Jerry Grammer, Local 1175 racial bias. And union member- impossible for public employees organization described its goal, Tad Hawk, Local 1805 ship is the most likely indicator in that state to engage in col- then we too will be left disarmed Cary Quick, Local 141 of access to affordable health lective bargaining. Whenever and powerless. care and the promise of dignity Republicans gained control in It’s essential that we recog- TRUSTEES in retirement. other states—Iowa and Mis- nize that in helping other work- Tamara Rietman, Local 3693 But rather than expanding souri, for instance—similar ers to form unions, expanding union membership to help boost union-destruction laws followed our ranks, supporting legislation RETIREE CHAPTER 31 more Americans into the middle there as well. that raises the minimum wage REPRESENTATIVE class, the rich and powerful have But no such laws could be and bringing everyone along Larry Brown embarked on a fierce and unre- enacted in any state that still with us, we are helping ourselves lenting offensive against labor had Democratic leadership in at as well. And in the process, we unions. It is no coincidence that least one branch of the govern- are building the best possible over the same 40-year period ment. In Illinois, where Bruce force for ending poverty in our of political attacks and policy Rauner rode into office boasting time. January-February 2020 On the Move 3

Reducing violence in DOC, DJJ facilities In wake of class action grievance win, AFSCME pushes for big changes

n response to the growing incidence of violent assaults against staff in Ithe Department of Corrections and Department of Juvenile Justice, AFSCME filed and won a class-action grievance regarding unsafe working conditions in both departments. The arbitration award directed the parties to negotiate a plan of action to improve safety at every facility.

Built systematically with doz- union’s liaison to the two ens of grievances at facilities departments. “That’s why across the state involving we brought this class-action issues from staff assaults to grievance, to demonstrate inadequate equipment, train- the breadth and depth of the ing and support, AFSCME problem. made a strong case that the “We have until April employers’ responses to under the arbitrator’s juris- health and safety concerns diction and we’re using that have failed to meet the stan- deadline to get the state to

“That’s why we brought this class- action grievance, to demonstrate the breadth and depth of the problem.” dards set by the union con- accelerate the planning pro- tract and state law. cess,” Caumiant said. Over eight days of hear- As directed, the union ings in 2018, AFSCME mem- has developed a platform of bers provided powerful testi- meaningful, tangible remedies mony bolstering the union’s that can be implemented and argument that management enforced around the state. had ignored steadily wors- Each proposal was crystallized ening conditions in facilities from issues identified and across the state. brought forward in testimony On March 25, 2019 arbi- from AFSCME members. trator Terry Bethel issued a The next step is for DOC ruling that essentially affirmed and DJJ to provide feedback AFSCME members in the Departments of Corrections and Juvenile Justice are working to improve facility safety. AFSCME’s claims, granting the and then begin to implement union’s grievance. the plan. The union’s action to stop unsound activities in captures data on a daily, ongo- in-the-moment decisions that Bethel said that both plan includes: the moment and to require ing basis. The book will gather can’t be resolved jointly by the DOC and DJJ failed to meet management to immediately information about required parties. the state’s responsibility to review and address issues. improvements and track subse- “provide a safe environment quent handling of those issues. in its corrections facilities 1. Training Safety and youth centers” and “that Health and 7. validation the departments have not The employer shall provide 3. safety reviews acted to the extent feasible to meaningful, up-to-the- 5. Reporting After years of turmoil and prevent injury to their secu- minute training in all areas A joint Health and Safety upheaval, DOC and DJJ will rity staffs.” impacting staff safety. Committee made up of union Quarterly, DOC and DJJ seek regular, ongoing accred- A staff trainer will be members and DOC/DJJ management will report on itation from agencies that established at every facility to administration appointees findings from the logbook to regulate and certify best prac- Plan of action address ongoing deficiencies, will work together to review AFSCME to ensure ongoing tices industry-wide. The arbitrator remanded the challenges and needs of staff facilities on a regular basis attention and compliance in case to the parties to shape a at the facilities. and put remedies in writing identified critical areas and remedy that improves safety to be addressed within 60 to determine the upcoming Staff in DOC and DJJ facilities. days of the review. schedule of facility reviews. support He retained jurisdiction over Chief Safety 8. the case to ensure that a Officer Working in corrrectional facil- satisfactory plan of action is 2. OSHA Ongoing ities places extreme demands developed. To meaningfully protect logbook jurisdiction on staff—physically, psycho- “There isn’t a good, staff and inmate safety on 4. 6. logically and emotionally. A quick answer to emergent the ground, a Chief Safety Bringing occupational safety Instead of awaiting remedy subcommittee will coordinate safety concerns at DOC and Officer will be appointed to (OSHA) standards to correc- through normal means out- and centralize a reliable con- DJJ facilities,” said AFSCME identify dangers and advo- tions facilities for the first time, lined in the collective bargain- tinuum of supportive services Council 31 Regional Director cate for improvements. The a logbook at each facility will ing agreement, the arbitrator for employees with needs in Eddie Caumiant, who is the officer will have the authority create a verifiable record that will retain jurisdiction for these areas. 4 On the Move January-February 2020

AFSCME members fight privatization at Hope Creek Rock Island County board threatens to sell nursing home

FSCME Local 2371 members have waged a years-long battle to save Hope A Creek Care Center in Rock Island County. After an intense public education and grassroots lobbying campaign, the board put off the sale. But the reprieve may only be temporary.

As On the Move went to print, sell the place they call home to the board was set to vote on an irresponsible company and a potential sale at its Feb. 25 remove it from public oversight. meeting. Resident James Nelson Just months ago, the board came to the Jan. 21 board meet- was ready to sell the home for ing in his wheelchair with his far less than it’s worth. Aperion oxygen tank. Care, a for-profit company with “The quality of care I Determined to save Hope Creek: AFSCME Local 2271 members Adrienne Walker, Brenda Coppage, Cheryl Campbell and Amanda Haskins (left to right). a track record of poor care, receive at Hope Creek is out- offered just $6 million—a frac- standing,” Nelson said. “Not conversation today regarding deteriorate,” Langdon said. Walnut Acres is also at risk of tion of the $19 million price tag only is the care good, but the moving forward with the con- Others on the board may be privatization. the county placed on it. residents and employees are one tract but I want to make it clear coming around to the same con- A vocal faction of the “That’s practically giving big family. It would be a tragedy that successor liability of the clusion. They pushed off voting Stephenson County Board is this facility away,” Council 31 to see Aperion take this over… union contract will be a deal on the sale more than once. But pushing for the body to sell Staff Representative Audie . Please think about their past killer.” the outcome of the Feb. 25 vote the home and held a Town Hall Schmidt said, “considering the history and don't forget us.” “This company’s focus is on is uncertain. on Feb. 19 specifically about county paid $25 million to con- stripping the rights, silencing “Privatization of public the home’s future. struct the facility in 2007.” the voices, and doing away with nursing homes puts the well-be- Community supporters Board members seemed Buyer calls the benefits and job security of ing of residents and employees and AFSCME Local 2399 mem- only too willing to overlook union contract Hope Creek employees when it at risk,” Council 31 Executive bers packed the room, braving Aperion’s record of public health “deal killer” should be focused on resident Director Roberta Lynch said. the frigid cold to speak out violations. care,” Schmidt said. “They have “That’s why it’s so important against privatization and in “This company’s focus In addition to a low-ball offer, to be stopped.” for AFSCME members to stand support of the home remain- is clearly not on what’s best Aperion demanded that Hope County board member Ed against it and fight for the peo- ing in county hands. They are for Hope Creek residents, the Creek workers be stripped of Langdon says after hearing all ple they serve every day.” standing up to make sure the seniors and people with disabil- their union rights, along with the the facts, he doesn’t want to sell board is considering the human ities who depend on the dedi- benefits and protections they’ve the home to Aperion. side of caring for residents and cated employees and excellent won in their union contract. “The residents … get qual- Walnut Acres the importance of keeping ded- care they receive there,” Schmidt In an email sent on Jan. ity care and I’m afraid if we also at risk icated employees in place. said. 23 from Aperion boss Michael [privatize] Hope Creek nursing As On the Move went to Residents agree. They have Rosen to the county’s real home, the loving care these The public nursing home press, the board was still dis- also urged the board not to estate agent, Rosen wrote, “Nice patients are receiving now will in Freeport now known as cussing the issue.

Lobby Day set: Raise wages for frontline caregivers

people who need these critical FSCME-represented employees at services. “Some employers are community-based nonprofit agencies doing the right thing, but serving youth and people with unfortunately many others A are pushing back at the bar- disabilities are gearing up to continue their gaining table and attempting push for fair pay at the state legislature. to reserve those funds for other purposes,” Council Armed with a court consent UCAN and Hope School, which 31 Regional Director Doug decree ordering the state to are also funded with state Woodson said. assure fair wages to its essen- dollars. Together they helped Rather than fight with tially outsourced labor force, secure a 3.5% rate increase for employers over a too-small pie, AFSCME members at disability disability services agencies and AFSCME’s Care Campaign is services agencies have success- a 5% increase for youth care gearing up for another inten- fully lobbied for wage increases agencies. sive lobbying effort to convince in each of the last three legisla- The General Assembly legislators to appropriate the tive sessions. indicated that all or a portion funding needed to keep raising Last year, these frontline of those increases are to be wages. Wednesday, April 1. They will employees is critical to ensur- direct service personnel (DSPs) used for wage increases to Members from local unions meet with legislators and the ing consistent, high-quality teamed up with AFSCME mem- address the hiring and reten- across the state will gather in governor’s office to remind services for the state’s most bers at youth care agencies like tion crisis that is hurting the Springfield for a lobby day on them that investing in frontline vulnerable. January-February 2020 On the Move 5

A broken tax system Illinois voters can fix it

he tax burden in Illinois falls more heavily on working people than the wealthy. That’s because, unlike the Tiffany Euler T Local 997 Department of Revenue federal government and 35 other states, Illinois doesn’t tax the wealthy at a higher rate. The Fair Tax is a means by which the share of responsibility will be more equitably distributed That unfair way of taxing only on income over $250,000. among taxpayers. This ensures the funding income leaves the state without By making the wealthy pay of vital programs that many people in Illinois enough revenue to pay its bills their share, Illinois will bring in depend on. Currently, many of these programs and adequately fund public more than $3 billion a year in are operating in the red. The Fair Tax is a step in education and services. new revenue to reduce debt and the right direction for Illinois. This November, Illinois invest in public services. voters could change all that. Last spring the Illinois Gen- eral Assembly approved a ballot It’s only fair Byron Clemons, Sr. measure that will let voters From 1979 to 2015, the top Local 124 Alton Mental Health Center decide whether to amend the 10% of income earners saw Illinois Constitution to allow for their income go up by 108% To pass the Fair Tax will be historic for all that now a fairer income tax structure. while the bottom 90% saw reside within the Prairie State and future genera- “Instead of requiring the their income go down by 8%. tions to come. How can one be against a tax code state to tax income at a single Not only are the rich wealth- that would be fairer to all Illinoisans and provide tax rate, the amendment allows ier than ever, they pay less in relief for most, all while accelerating job creation higher rates on wealthy people taxes than working people. from Chicago to Alton? and lower rates for working Working people in Illinois We don't fault the rich for being rich, but we people,” Council 31 Director of now pay almost double what have a chance to hold them accountable to con- Political & Community Rela- wealthy people pay in taxes as a tributing their part. Let's make history and vote tions John Cameron said. share of their income. YES to the Illinois Fair Tax Amendment. The old way of taxing peo- “Something has to give,” ple results in recurring budget Cameron said. “The people who deficits at every level of gov- can least afford it are paying ernment (state, counties, cities, the most in taxes, while those John Day universities, school districts), who can best afford it are pay- Local 1048 Southern Illinois State Employees

The fair tax creates an opportunity for Illinois to address income inequality by allowing the tax base to be shifted to the folks who have benefited the most from living and doing business in the state. A Vote YES fair tax would make it possible for the state to fully fund itself and meet its obligations without placing an additional burden on lower- and middle-income working families. for a Fair Tax! Taxing wealthier households would allow us to put more money to K-12 education and lower local tax levies. This is so import- ant in rural and downstate areas because education is funded by property taxes Learn more: on homes with lower values. So those districts struggle to meet the needs of AFSCME31.org/FairTax students and offer good wages to teachers. Living in a rural community shouldn’t mean you have less resources for public education. We need a fair tax so all our VoteYesforFairness.com kids have the same chance at a better future. YesforFairTax.org The Illinois Tax System is Far from Fair

Current Average State and Local Tax Rate hurting our communities and ing the least. That’s wrong and Paid in Illinois (by Income) threatening public employee that’s what we need to fix.” pensions. It’s also pushing 14.4% localities to hike property taxes 12.4% 12.6% to pay for public education and How do we win? 11.8% infrastructure improvements “Illinois can have a fair tax and forcing harmful cuts to pub- system if we vote yes on the 7.4% lic services and jobs. constitutional amendment on Amending the Illinois our ballots at the statewide constitution to repeal the ban general election in November on taxing wealthy individuals 2020,” Cameron said. “AFSCME at a higher rate will pave the members will work to get out way for immediate enactment the vote all across the state.” Bottom Quintile 2nd Quintile 3rd Quintile 4th Quintile Top 1% Avg. Income: Avg. Income: Avg. Income: Avg. Income: Avg. Income: of Governor Pritzker’s fair To win the fair tax, a ‘yes’ $12,400 $30,700 $51,700 $84,000 $1,704,500 tax plan, under which 97% of vote of more than 50% of Illinois taxpayers will pay the those voting in the election or Source: ITEP, ″Who Pays″ same or less in income taxes. more than 60% of those vot- Only the top 3% of earners ing on the ballot question is will see their taxes go up—and required. 6 On the Move January-February 2020

PEOPLE power AFSCME members endorse in primary, prepare for upcoming elections

ith critical elections and the vitally important Fair Tax coming up on W the November ballot, more than 500 delegates to Council 31’s PEOPLE conference in Springfield on Feb. 1 made endorsements for the March primary, prepared for the campaign to pass a Fair Tax in Illinois, and set the union’s 2020 legislative agenda.

Executive Director Roberta “We’re funding public Lynch opened the conference schools unfairly and starving with a rousing speech on the local governments all because union difference in the lives of our constitution prohibits union members and our com- higher taxes on the wealthy,” munities—and its impact on Martire pointed out. our nation’s economic wellbeing. “The top 1% in our state “Union membership is the pay a lower effective tax rate difference between hanging on than the bottom 90%, making by your fingernails and having inequality worse. With a Fair a measure of economic security Tax, only the wealthiest 3% that you know you can count will pay more (97% of taxpay- on,” Lynch said. ers will pay the same or less), “Why are tremendous which alone will raise $3.6 bil- resources used to try to destroy lion a year for public services.” unions?” she asked the crowd. Delegates broke up into “Because unions are pulling workshops by region and strate- back the curtains and telling gized how best to educate their the truth about our economy. co-workers and neighbors about We are willing to stand up and the Fair Tax. They returned to say wealth inequality is crush- their local unions better armed ing the American dream.” to help win passage of the ballot measure in November. (See more information on the Ready for a Fair Tax on page 5.) fair tax code Local 2615 member Loretta Soresie votes at the Feb. 2 PEOPLE conference. Special guest speaker Ralph Legislative Martire, Executive Director of agenda set the Illinois General Assembly, the valuable contributions of 2020 the Center for Tax and Budget the AFSCME Council 31 lobby- AFSCME members, we will Accountability, educated the The conference delegates ing team at the State Capitol is be able to identify areas to endorsements entire conference on the cur- approved the AFSCME Council on the job every day working improve and create pro-worker AFSCME Council 31 endorse- rent regressive tax system in 31’s 2020 legislative agenda, to defeat measures that would policies that make sense for ments are based on candidates’ Illinois, which disproportion- setting priorities for the cur- harm AFSCME members and our members and all working records on issues of importance ately burdens the middle class. rent legislative session which to build support for bills that people,” Legislative Director to union members. He stressed that the Fair began in January and is set to improve job conditions and Joanna Webb-Gauvin said. The union’s endorsements Tax constitutional amendment adjourn on May 31. fairness for working families. “That’s why it’s so important to are determined by rank-and-file is the surest path to a fairer tax With thousands of bills “With a new governor have AFSCME members set our delegates at regional meetings system. introduced in every session of that understands and respects union’s priorities.” that were held across the state in recent months (local govern- ment endorsements, recom- mendations for state legislative 2020 LEGISLATIVE AGENDA seats); at the PEOPLE Executive Committee meeting on Jan. 31 (state legislative seats, recom-  Support a responsible budget and adequate revenues for state mendations for congressional and local governments and statewide races); and at the Feb. 1 PEOPLE conference Protect and expand workers’ rights (congressional and statewide endorsements).  Support adequate funding for state universities Every AFSCME local in Illinois, along with every Chap- Fight privatization of public services and assets ter 31 Retirees sub-chapter, is Fight to improve wage levels in community disability agencies eligible to send delegates to the conference. and other AFSCME-represented nonprofit agencies The full list of Council 31 Stabilize pension funds and oppose cuts to retirement benefits endorsements for the March 17  primary election is on the facing Fight for affordable prescription drugs page. PEOPLE delegates will meet again in August to consider See the entire legislative agenda at AFSCME31.org/LegislativeAgenda2020 endorsements for the November general election. January-February 2020 On the Move 7

AFSCME Endorsements 2020 March Primary The Illinois Primary Election in March will provide an opportunity to choose candidates who will stand up for workers’ rights. Make your voice heard and VOTE!

The following candidates have been endorsed by AFSCME Illinois PEOPLE*

NATIONAL House District 16: Yehiel “Mark” Kalish (D) COUNTY House District 20: Michelle Darbro (D) Cong. District 1: Bobby L. Rush (D) House District 26: (D) Cook County Cong. District 2: Robin Kelly (D) House District 27: Justin Q. Slaughter (D) State’s Attorney: Kim Foxx (D) Cong. District 3: Daniel William Lipinski (D) House District 29: Thaddeus Jones (D) Cong. District 5: Mike Quigley (D) Rock Island House District 31: Mary Flowers (D) Cong. District 7: Danny K. Davis (D) County Board: Joshua Ehrmann (D) House District 32: Andre Thapedi (D) Cong. District 8: R aja Krishamoorthi (D) County Board: Will Tolmie (D) House District 40: Jaime Andrade (D) Cong. District 11: Bill Foster (D) County Board: Brad Beeding (D) House District 41: (D) Cong. District 13: Betsy Dirksen Londrigan (D) House District 54: Maggie Trevor (D) Winnebago House District 60: (D) County Chairman: Joe Chiarelli (R) STATE LEGISLATURE House District 65: Martha Paschke (D) County Board: Robert Young (D) House District 66: (D) County Board: John Penney (R) House District 79: Charlene Eads (D) Senate District 1: Antonio “Tony” Muñoz (D) House District 83: (D) Kane Senate District 10: (D) House District 115: Johnnie Ray Smith II (R) County Board: Matt Hansen (D) Senate District 10: Robert Peters (D) County Board: Susan Starrett (R) Senate District 10: Cristina Castro (D) JUDICIAL Jackson Illinois House 1st Supreme Court District Circuit Clerk: Cindy Svanda (D) House District 1: (D) (Freeman): P. Scott Neville House District 2: (D) 1st Appellate Court District *NOTE: AFSCME does not normally make endorsements (Neville): Michael Hyman House District 3: Nidia Carranza (D) in uncontested races. House District 9: (D) 1st Appellate Court District (Simon): John Griffin House District 10: Jawaharial “Omar” Williams (D)

Register & Vote! Illinois’ primary Election Day is March 17. To make your voice heard, be sure you are registered to vote—and be sure to vote! Here’s everything you need to know. To vote, you must: Ways to register: • Be a U.S. citizen. • Online registration is open until March 2 for • Be at least 17 years old on or before the primary those with a state license or state ID. election and turn 18 on or before the date of the • Register in person at a designated location general election. near you during early voting from March 2 to • Live in your election precinct at least 30 days March 16. before Election Day. • Not be serving time in prison as a result of Visit the Illinois State Board of Elections website a conviction (those released from prison are at elections.il.gov for detailed information and eligible to register and vote in Illinois). to register online.

Vote Early through March 16 or Vote on March 17, Election Day! 8 On the Move January-February 2020

Forming a union is our right. And it’s worth the fight. Despite all the obstacles, workers in Illinois and across the country continue to seek to exercise their right to unionize. Tens of thousands are coming together to form unions, defying employer threats and intimidation.

ederal law gives American workers in the Employers don’t want ruled that separate elections would need to be private sector the right to join together with held at each of its three facilities, the employer co-workers to form a union and bargain to give up power closed down the facility where union support collectively with their employer. State law in In a non-union workplace, the employer has all was strongest. After those workers lost their jobs, Illinois does the same for public employees. the power and control over working conditions employees at the other facilities were too fright- Sounds clear and simple, but in reality, and compensation. All too often, they’ll fight to ened to move forward. Fforming a union in a non-union workplace can be “It happens all too often,” Davis said. retain it at any cost. extremely difficult. Too often, workers face intimi- “Employers often say they don’t want a “Although having a union can help improve dation, harassment and retaliation. union because they don’t have the money—rec- services, stabilize the workforce and even find “Many workers start a new job and a union ognizing that unions seek to raise wages,” Davis cost-saving efficiencies, employers want total is waiting for them. Their rights and benefits are said. “But they spend more money fighting the control. well-established in a longstanding union con- union with lawyers and consultants than they “We make sure employees know what to tract,” AFSCME Council 31 Organizing Director would need to spend on wage increases.” expect and prepare them for the fact that man- Abbey Davis said. That’s the experience of most It’s especially shocking to discover how agement will try to intimidate and mislead them, Illinois AFSCME members who work for state or many nonprofit agencies or even governmental even threaten their jobs,” Davis said. local government. bodies will devote scarce resources to battling Even so, “there are still hundreds of thou- employees who seek a voice on the job. Labor laws aren’t sands of workers in our state who don’t have At a nonprofit disability agency where strong enough union representation,” Davis said. “For many of employees recently formed a union with AFSCME, them, having a voice on the job is a much higher the employer paid four out-of-state “union avoid- The National Labor Relations Act of 1935 codified hill to climb.” ance” consultants $3,000 a day plus travel and the rights of workers to join a union free from That’s because employers don’t want to lodging expenses. retaliation, but the Labor Management Rela- give up power, and laws to protect workers aren’t At another agency where workers wanted to tions Act of 1947, known as the Taft-Hartley Act, strong enough. form a union with AFSCME and the labor board restricted union activities and power. January-February 2020 On the Move 9

The Taft-Hartley Act led to a cottage indus- lates into “shocking disparities in political power,” Despite all the obstacles, workers in Illinois try of anti-union consultants—often lawyers— according to a Harvard University report. “A large and across the country continue to seek to exer- who advise employers on how to get away with part of the explanation for our current crisis of cise that right. Tens of thousands continue to stomping out a union organizing effort. economic inequality is the decline of the labor come together to form unions, defying employer Anti-union tactics include holding manda- movement. Unions redistribute wealth—from threats and intimidation. tory “captive audience” meetings on work time, capital to labor, from rich to poor—and without “It’s always so inspiring to see groups intimidating employees and inundating them with unions we have lacked for a check on economic of workers who stand up to all of the lies and propaganda. Anti-union consultants will harass concentration.” coercion because they want to make their lives employees at home or at their second job, urging As the report said, “Democracy at work better,” Davis said, “and even more inspiring to them to vote against the union. They will threaten should be a right, not a fight.” watch them go on and do just that.” pro-union employees with demotions, lower pay, cuts in hours or even termination. UCAN—a well-known, publicly funded non- profit in Chicago that helps at-risk youth—paid a high-priced “union avoidance” firm to fight Arzell Thomas employees as they formed their union with A community support specialist, Thomas has AFSCME. Workers who voted to join the union worked at UCAN for 26 years. He and his co-work- more than two years ago finally won their first ers voted to join AFSCME almost two years ago. contract (see page 13) early this year. After a long fight they finally won their first contract. More than 800 employees at CGH Medi- cal Center in Sterling who recently voted to join We get up every morning and come to work because AFSCME are awaiting labor board certification. of the kids we serve. But after 26 years I make just But the city-owned hospital hired a $500-an-hour $29,000 a year. We want to take care of the clients, anti-union lawyer to do everything possible to but we have to take care of our families too! delay. Employees here start at minimum wage. Most don’t “We need more labor board officers, tighter Instead of paying last a year. It’s hard to focus on the work when timelines with faster certification and better stan- you’re trying to live paycheck to paycheck. We’ve dards of union recognition, plus punitive conse- workers what had some employees working here full time and quences that put the burden on the employer, we deserve, they still homeless. To get on the health insurance is not the worker,” Davis said. “Right now, labor almost $700 a month. board regulations allow the employer to drag paid a union- When we started organizing, we didn’t know how out the process, which can deflate employee hard it would be. Instead of paying workers what morale.” buster thousands we deserve, they paid a union-buster thousands of dollars to of dollars to intimidate us. When we tried to share Trump dumping information about the union, they would rip down worker protections intimidate us. our flyers. But they let anti-union workers put up posters calling us “cockroaches.” President Barack Obama strengthened worker That’s the most hurtful part. I spent 26 years with this organization, but I was treated protections at the National Labor Relations like a second-class citizen. Board, improving the union recognition process, expanding protections for workers’ rights and At UCAN, we never had a voice. Now we do. Sitting across the bargaining table for the allowing unions more access to workplaces first time, that was something else! for organizing. But the Trump administration is reversing those gains. At the same time, instead of allowing Dem- ocrats to appoint board members as the law Brandi Barron provides, Trump is leaving those seats vacant. Barron works as an electronic medical records That’s left the NLRB with just three members, all trainer at CGH Medical Center, where more than of them Trump appointees whose decisions con- 800 employees recently voted to join AFSCME. sistently thwart workers’ attempts to gain union Management has targeted her and other union recognition. activists for retaliation. A recent report by the Economic Policy I got suspended for five days because of hearsay Institute details how Trump has “systematical- complaints. I was put in my office to work on educa- ly rolled back workers’ rights to form unions tional documents and had to send progress reports and engage in collective bargaining with their at the end of each day. I stuck to exactly what they employers, to the detriment of workers, their told me to do, but they didn’t think I was making the communities, and the economy. … The Trump I started out right kind of progress. board and [NLRB general counsel] have elevat- advocating for the ed corporate interests above those of working Then they cut down my hours. All of this was in men and women and have routinely betrayed direct relation to my union activity. union to help other the statute they are responsible for administer- I started out advocating for the union to help other ing and enforcing.” people. I knew that I would have some trouble people. I knew because nobody likes change, but I didn’t think it that I would have Workers won't give up would be this severe, considering I know what I’m doing is right. some trouble but Protecting the unfettered right to join a union is I support the union and there is no reason for them critically important not only for individual work- I know what I’m to retaliate against me. I don’t stop their voice. Why ers and their families, but for communities and do they try to stop mine? doing is right. the economy as a whole. The percentage of American workers in a union dropped to its low- They’re trying to get me out of there, but there are a est level ever in 2019—just as wage and wealth whole bunch of strong leaders. I’m just one. They’re not going to take down this whole inequality have peaked. thing if they take me out. This is no coincidence. And that unequal distribution of economic wealth and power trans- 10 On the Move January-February 2020

We’re up for the count 2020 Census: Critical for public services

very decade, America counts its population in the US Census. The Eresults have a far-reaching impact on communities, cities, counties and states as the count determines the allocation of more than $675 billion in federal funds, grants and support—as well as congressional representation.

Illinois missed out on critical over the last decade. federal dollars and may lose up If Illinois loses one seat, to two congressional seats due it will most likely be from to undercounting in the last Southern Illinois. But it’s pos- census. That’s why the state sible that Illinois could lose is investing more money than two seats—the other likely any other (outside of Califor- from Northern Illinois—if the nia and New York) on ensuring undercount is large enough. every person is counted in If Illinois loses two seats, 2020. the state’s representation in the house would be reduced to 16—the fewest since Abraham Lincoln was president. “Having fair “Having fair representa- representation tion in the US House is critical for our state,” said AFSCME in the US House Council 31 Executive Direc- is critical for tor Roberta Lynch. “We need advocates for federal dollars our state.” that provide strong public services and much-needed infrastructure improvements The Illinois Complete in Illinois. That’s why it’s so Count committee of the Illi- important that every single nois secretary of state’s office Illinoisan is counted in the is working to make sure that 2020 Census.” investment pays off. 2020 Census: "Census data determines how federal funding is divided Be counted up among the states for vital in 2020 Get the Facts services like education, and healthcare, and road construc- The 2020 US Census begins tion," Gov. JB Pritzker said. April 1. Participating will be The US Census is coming up soon. "Billions of dollars per year in easier than ever. The Census The outcome will be critically important for federal funding to Illinois are Bureau is accepting responses on the line, and so is our rep- online (via desktop, laptop, AFSCME members and the communities we resentation in U.S. Congress, phone or tablet) and by phone serve. Here’s what you need to know: and that of course determines in addition to the traditional what that federal funding will paper method. look like." Every household will Census 2020 begins April 1. have the option of responding Participating in the Census is our civic duty: online, by mail or by phone. Counting Depending on how likely an It’s a way to participate in our democracy and every person area is to respond online, say, “I COUNT!” individuals will receive either In 2010, the United States an invitation encouraging It’s easy! You can participate online, by phone Census Bureau missed an them to respond online or an or by mail. estimated 59,800 Illinoisans, invitation along with a paper including 36,000 children questionnaire in mid- to late Billions of dollars are at stake. If our neighbors under the age of five. Because March. don’t get counted, our workplaces don’t get of that undercounting, Illinois Anyone who hasn’t com- lost $122 million in federal pleted their online or paper the necessary funding to provide critical health funding and $2,700 Census form by the end of services like schools, roads, public works and per child each year in federal April will receive an in-person other vital programs. assistance. visit from a census outreach The number of seats each worker. Do you know someone who needs a flexible job state has in the US House of “Let’s make every person Representatives is based on in Illinois count,” Lynch said. with a good salary and an even better mission? population. And Illinois is “Complete your census form They can apply to work for the Census at almost guaranteed to lose at quickly and encourage your 2020census.gov/jobs. least one of its seats because family, friends and co-workers of a steep drop in population to do the same.” January-February 2020 On the Move 11

University employees striving for a better future AFSCME members at NEIU win contract after tough bargaining

Wrongly accused, Local 1989 members at NEIU celebrate a fair contract. The university can expect made whole fter nearly two years of bargaining, more of the same determina- tion next time around, Cooper Virginia Sandstrom was chanting along with AFSCME Local 1989 members at said. “We are here and we aren’t dozens of other union members standing Northeastern Illinois University won going away. We are invested. up for a fair contract outside the NEIU pres- A We are NEIU.” ident’s office on July 31. A woman on man- a five-year agreement that raises wages and moves the local closer to a step plan that agement’s negotiating team came up and rewards years of service. told her to stop yelling at her. “I said, I’m not yelling at you, I’m chant- It wasn’t easy. Union members in during the president’s office ing,” Sandstrom recalls. Shortly after, Sand- had to fight the university hours and addresses. Striking strom saw a commotion and the woman was every step of the way, enduring Chicago teachers and AFSCME sitting down at the top of a stairwell. She furloughs and layoffs in the members from other locals asked her if she was OK as others helped the process. joined their campus actions, “We are short on people, boosting morale. woman to her feet. offices are closed, we’re run- The union ultimately pre- A few days later Sandstrom received a ning around trying to be a vailed through unity, Cooper notice of termination for “creating a hostile resource for students. We’re said. “We’re always thinking environment in the work place.” making it happen, but we’re about everyone else along with Despite telling her side of the story, stretched,” Local 1989 Presi- ourselves and that’s how it Sandstrom was terminated—but the union dent Chaelecia Cooper said. should be. It’s a collective. We The university kept refusing told NEIU it’s not going to be Local 3236 member Sandy Nordine. fought successfully to make it a paid leave to reward hard work and dedica- another day; it’s going to be Photo: Alex Gant | Vidette Photographer while investigation took place. tion, pushing back on fair wage now.” ISU still at table Six months later the union had an arbi- proposals time and again. An agreement was reached trator subpoena the university; the union was “People have very good quickly after a federal mediator AFSCME Local 3236 members ready to make its case. Instead of making reason to be frustrated and I’m was appointed. The contract at Illinois State University are their own, the university quickly settled and also frustrated,” said bargaining provides 11% wage increases still fighting after 19 months committee member Jen Sevilla. over the life of the contract without a contract. The uni- put Sandstrom back to work at the same job. “But we found the ability in plus an extra 2.5% bump in versity is saying it doesn’t have They removed all records of the incident the frustration to be one local. the last three years that the money but the union is standing from her personnel file and must post on We’re working toward the same local can allocate. They plan to strong, Council 31 Staff Repre- employee bulletin boards about the settle- goal together.” raise pay in disproportionately sentative Renee Nestler said. ment to clear her name. Union members rallied underpaid positions, moving The support of the univer- “It was very stressful, and I feel like I together and held regular pickets the unit closer to the goal of a sity community has kept spirits on campus, testified at board of pay schedule with automatic up. Faculty, staff and students have PTSD,” Sandstrom said. “But everyone’s trustees meetings and dropped step progressions. packed the halls in support of been really supportive. Without my union, I the union’s fight at a Jan. 27 don’t know where I would be right now.” action. “Clerical staff are crucial,” recently retired faculty member Barbara Heyl said. “We can’t set schedule, their hours could and secured a first contract teach without their support; we be changed with no notice. within a year. They got raises really rely on them.” They didn’t have two days off that will keep them earning together, it was hard to take above the minimum wage as time off and seniority didn’t it increases, two days off in a EIU membership matter,” Local 981 President row each week and a reliable grows Renee Kerz said. schedule. “Becoming a part of our “We’re making a difference Food court employees just bargaining unit makes a lot of on this campus,” Kerz said. joined the ranks of AFSCME that possible. It makes life eas- “You can’t stay on the sidelines. Local 981 at Eastern Illinois ier and more consistent.” You have to stand up and be University. The unit approached a voice with us. That’s what New members of Local 981, food court employees at EIU. “For years they never had a AFSCME members last summer makes us strong.” 12 On the Move January-February 2020

ON THE LOCAL LEVEL

Employees at Erie House in Chicago won their first union contract. First contract agreement. Now employees with a union, like a set disci- have access to an unpaid per- “Our frontline employees embody pline and grievance policy.” for new AFSCME sonal leave and two weeks of Erie House is celebrating paid child care leave (both new the essence of Erie House.” its 150th anniversary in 2020 members at benefits), and they can roll over and the staff look forward Erie House three vacation days into the to working hard to serve the next fiscal year, eliminating a bargaining unit, the commit- show that there is value in community. In May 2018 more than “use it or lose it” policy. tee secured a new policy that our own families as well as “It felt really good to be 100 employees at Erie House in Eligible employees will requires all official organi- the work we do here at Erie,” at the table, have candid con- Chicago voted to join AFSCME. receive cell phone and cloth- zational communications— VanderHeide said. “But a lot versations, and to have equal In December 2019 they settled ing stipends, access to tuition memos, policies, procedures, of what we’re excited about is weight,” VanderHeide said. their first collective bargaining assistance and debt-relief plans manuals, all-staff meetings, accountability and knowing “After some tense times, I don’t agreement. and paid time for professional etc.—to be offered in both that the rules are the same feel like we’re fighting over this Erie House is an education development. English and Spanish. across the board. We’re excited anymore. Now management and resource center serving the With a large number “We’re proud of the new for some basic background and the union are excited to immigrant community with of Spanish speakers in the policies we got in place, which rights and securities that come move forward together.” early childhood education and family support, as well as adult and after-school programming. Employees organized a union because they felt working conditions and services would improve with more support and respect from management. “Erie does a lot of amaz- ing work in the immigrant community, providing a large variety of social services,” said Katie VanderHeide, the organization’s database admin- istrator and a member of the bargaining team. “Our frontline employees embody the essence of Erie House and I wanted to ensure they had a seat at State labor federation elects the table. I knew that a union would make their voices heard.” new leadership Council 31 Staff Represen- Congratulations to newly elected Illinois State AFL-CIO tative Matthew Lange led the officers Tim Drea (president, center) and Pat Devaney (secretary- bargaining team, which, along treasurer, right). Drea most recently served as the federation's Excellence on the job with VanderHeide, included secretary-treasurer and takes the helm as former President Michael A school custodian and AFSCME Local 672 member since Erika Flores, Danny Collins, Carrigan retires from a career dedicated to Illinois workers. Devaney 1992, Diana Winthurst received an award for her outstanding Riza Falk, Jose Frausto and comes to his new position from the Associated Fire Fighters of performance and dedication to the Moline-Coal Valley School Jesus Gonzalez Flores. Together, the team secured Illinois where he served as president. The state federation has District community. “Diana is a proud AFSCME member and is a three-year contract guaran- an executive board that’s made up of representatives from always giving 100%,” Local 672 President Terry Boone said. teeing 8% across-the-board 35 affiliated unions, including AFSCME Council 31. “We congratulate her for this well-deserved award.” increases over the life of the January-February 2020 On the Move 13

UCAN employees win first union contract After more than two years of organizing a union and bargaining a contract, AFSCME members at UCAN in Chicago overwhelmingly voted to ratify their first union contract. The three-year agreement ensures that employees at this publicly funded nonprofit youth care agency have the basic rights and protections that union contracts provide as well as guaranteed wage increases and lower health insurance costs. “I’m very elated that we have finally reached a tenta- tive agreement,” said Rhonda Nesbitt, a community support specialist who has worked at UCAN for 15 years. “Although it was long, the fight was worth Members of the AFSCME bargaining team celebrates after a successful first contract ratification. it. I’m most proud of my team because we encouraged and sneak out. That’s how we’ve led by Council 31 Staff Repre- raises wages 9% for everyone team tries to get more for us leaned on one another during been working.” sentative Kathy Steichen. The —and 30% for the lowest-paid because we’re under differ- stressful times.” UCAN will also pay more team evolved over the more employees—in addition to ent guidelines than the other The fight was indeed long. toward employee health insur- than 18 months of bargaining, securing paid parental leave for employees,” said Lisa Guagenti, Nearly 200 employees voted to ance. Before they paid between but the core team that brought the first time. a page in adult services. “Every join AFSCME in March 2018 50-60% of the premium and home the contract included A big priority for Local little bit helps.” after an intensive anti-union now they will pay 75%. Fer- Royal, Nesbitt and Streeter, 3783 members was improving Guagenti has two children campaign waged by manage- along with Arzell Thomas, Julia pay and benefits for library in college and works two other ment. But by sticking together Beard, Art Gage and David pages, who make significantly part-time jobs to supplement and engaging the community Shields. less than other full-time her income. She’s worked at in their effort, the workers won “Although it was “It’s been a great journey,” employees. the library for four years after their union and negotiated a long, the fight Streeter said. “There were ups “We strongly believe visiting it for two decades as a remarkably good first contract. and downs but now we can all pages should have access to patron. In addition to union rights, was worth it.” breathe easy. I now know that the same benefits as other “I live in Elk Grove, so I see a grievance and arbitration pro- in due time I can be comfort- employees and continue to people I know,” she said. “It’s cess and just-cause discipline able with the job I have. It’s a make incremental progress friendly. It has a nice commu- standards, employees can be nanda Royal, a program sup- good job and can be a great job. towards that [and] put signifi- nity feel.” secure in their ability to advo- port specialist who has worked It’s a glorious feeling.” cant pressure on management The bargaining team also cate for themselves and their at UCAN for 18 years, said she’s fought off management’s co-workers. most proud of that win. attempt to deny employees the Starting wage rates were “It feels good to know that ability to trade shifts, a com- set, hiking pay for several posi- everyone now has the opportu- mon and helpful practice at the tions, plus 3% across-the-board nity to be paid for the work we library. raises in each year of the con- do,” she said, and that employ- Guagenti said having a tract. Longevity pay, shift dif- ees now have “affordable med- voice on the job is the most ferentials and position progres- ical insurance with UCAN pay- valuable part of being a sions based on years of service ing the bulk of the price.” union member. She said she’s will also give many employees a Streeter said he wasn’t seen her co-workers use the much-needed income boost. supportive of unionizing grievance process to protect “Everybody is happy with at first but after talking to the rights, pay and benefits the pay increases,” said Devon co-workers he got on board they have worked so hard to Streeter, a residential treatment and eventually joined the secure. specialist who has worked at bargaining committee. Being “If you feel you’ve been UCAN for more than three at the table with UCAN con- treated unfairly, you have years. But it was more gratifying firmed just how much the Local 3783 bargaining team members Jan Chrzan, Josh Fulkerson and Rhonda someone who can help you,” “getting management to budge union was really needed. He Szewczyk (Aleksandra Podraza not pictured). she said. “That’s what I like on things that mattered to us wanted to make sure to give about having the backing of a day-to-day. We got breaks, shift credit to his co-workers who to raise wages on a faster union. You feel supported as an differential pay, extra holidays. were in the fight from the pace,” the bargaining team employee.” These are the things we’re really beginning. Pushing for said in the tentative agree- The bargaining committee excited about.” “They went through hell ment summary. was led by Council 31 Staff Streeter said employees and got everything rolling,” higher pay at The team was able to Representative Colin Theis were forced to work long hours Streeter said. “They gave peo- Elk Grove ensure that page wages increase and included Local 3783 Pres- with no break because manage- ple the opportunity to fight faster than the state minimum ident Jan Chrzan, Vice Presi- ment said it was just part of the for what’s right and what we Village library wage. Pages will also see more dent Josh Fulkerson, Record- job. “Can you imagine a 14 to believe in. They taught me the Employees at the public paid time off during the life of ing Secretary Aleksandra 16-hour shift and not having value of speaking out.” library in Elk Grove Village the contract. Podraza and Trustee Rhonda a single break? People had to The bargaining team was won a four-year contract that “Every year the bargaining Szewczyk. 14 On the Move January-February 2020

SHORT REPORTS

wage boosts, but corporate executives and shareholders. New state laws Bloomberg Business push wages up reported on Jan. 16 that the Trump tax cut was a $32 billion Although the Trump fed- “windfall” for the country’s six eral tax cuts failed to produce biggest banks: JPMorgan Chase promised wage growth, state & Co., Bank of America Corp., legislatures are taking on Citigroup Inc., Wells Fargo & that challenge. In 2020, min- Co., Goldman Sachs Group Inc. imum wages will increase in and Morgan Stanley. 25 states and 49 localities. The tax cut package The wage hikes constitute the slashed the corporate tax greatest number ever in one rate from 35 to 21 percent. year. But instead of investing in “These increases will put their employees’ wages and much-needed money into benefits, these big compa- the hands of the lowest-paid nies took their tax cuts and workers, many of whom strug- Nevada state employees secured collective bargaining rights in 2018. The first units are now certified by the state labor board. simply bought back a record gle with high and ever-increas- amount of their own stock—a ing costs of living,” said Yan- Good news Federal EPA AFGE while embracing scientific financial practice that rewards net Lathrop of the National integrity. shareholders. Employment Law Project. in Nevada employees “EPA employees have “These detrimental results The minimum wage law committed our careers to pro- should be no surprise as the signed last year by Illinois Nevada state employees are stand up tecting human health and the tax law is in fact working out Gov. JB Pritzker raised the one step closer to the bargain- In the face of massive staff- environment, working day-in according to plan: helping wage to $9.25 on Jan. 1. On ing table as the state’s labor ing cuts and deregulation that and day-out to keep our air the rich and powerful,” said July 1, there will be a second board certified AFSCME Local ignores science and undermines clean, ensure our water is safe AFSCME Council 31 Executive increase to $10 per hour, with 4041 as the exclusive repre- public safety, employees at the to drink, and clean up our land Director Roberta Lynch. further increases to $15 in sentative for three bargaining federal Environmental Protec- so that we may live and work 2025. units—corrections, health care tion Agency are coming together on it,” Dreyfus said. Labor groups like Fight and health care professional and demanding a workers’ bill “That’s why we’re not just for $15 pushed for years for employees. of rights. standing up for a fair contract, “The tax law a living wage. Companies and These state employees “There’s been an attack on we’re fighting to be able to do is working out states are finally catching up. have been working to secure the EPA from a lot of directions, our jobs and protect public Large corporations like Ama- union rights for decades. But it an attack on EPA science, an health—and we’ll keep fighting according to zon have increased their min- wasn’t until 2018 that union- attack on our regulations, and an until our voices are truly heard.” imum wage to $15 an hour. backed, Democratic candidates attack on the workers who actu- plan: helping And even McDonald's—one of won enough legislative seats— ally do the work,” said Bethany the rich and the staunchest opponents to and the governorship—to Dreyfus, president of the Amer- increasing pay for underpaid secure passage of legislation ican Federation of Government Trump tax cut powerful.” workers—announced in April establishing those rights. And Employees Local 1236, which favors wealthy that it would no longer fight in June, Nevada Gov. Steve represents EPA workers. proposals to raise the mini- Sisolak signed into law a his- The union argues that The $1.5 trillion in tax cuts In fact, “the tax savings mum wage. toric bill granting 20,000 state the Trump administration has that President Donald Trump have spurred the banks to However, the federal min- workers the right to collectively waged an all-out assault on and his congressional allies record profit,” Bloomberg imum wage has remained stag- bargain. workers at the EPA. The new signed into law three years ago stated, with the six biggest nant for a decade at just $7.25 Now, some 2,000 union bill of rights aims to improve have helped the wealthy enrich banks posting $120 billion in an hour—or $15,000 a year. members in these three newly working conditions and ensure themselves but left working net income for 2019. “They had It’s the longest this country certified bargaining units will a fair contract for the nearly people behind. The big winners never surpassed $100 billion has gone without an increase select a bargaining team to 8,000 employees represented by are not the workers promised before the tax cuts.” in the federal wage. negotiate their first contract with the State of Nevada in the coming months. “This is an exciting day for Local 4041 members. We are one step closer to taking our seat at the bargaining table to negotiate wages, working conditions and safety on the job, and resources so we can continue to provide our communities with the best services possible,” said Harry Schiffman, Local 4041 president and an electrician at the University of Nevada-Las Vegas. “Thousands of Nevada state employees are ready to make changes in our work- places through collective bar- gaining, and thousands more will join soon as additional units ready to file for exclusive representation as AFSCME.” Labor groups like Fight for $15 pushed for years for a living wage. And finally in 2020, a record number of cities and states are increasing their minimum wages. January-February 2020 On the Move 15

RETIREE NOTES

SAVE THE DATE! Rx Affordability Lobby Day March 3 | 11 a.m. | Springfield

We are suffering while pharmaceutical manufacturers make record profits. It's time for our state to ensure all Illinoisans can afford their medications because prescription drugs don’t work if people can’t afford them! To learn more, contact Retiree Coordinator Maria Britton-Sipes at [email protected].

Mary Lou and Kenneth Bradford were among dozens of SERS retirees who received notice they were no longer insured by the state. The average Social Security pensions, the number of older AFSCME Action: benefit in 2019 was $1,461 a households receiving public “President Trump indicated a month ($17,532 a year). Social assistance would have increased SERS retiree willingness to cut Social Security Security benefits typically by almost 19%, the report health insurance replace approximately 40% of says, and the number of older if elected again.” pre-retirement income. Most persons receiving Medicaid by Kenneth and Mary Lou financial planners recommend more than 15%. Bradford were among dozens at least a 70% income replace- "It is clear from the data of SERS retirees who received people when they turn 65. three-legged stool includes (1) ment rate for retirees. In fact, that pensions serve an import- notices at the beginning of “CMS told us we chose not access to Social Security, (2) a the analysis by NIRS indicates ant function in keeping work- December from the Illinois to continue to have coverage,” defined benefit pension and that if Social Security income ing families in the middle class Department of Central Man- Mary Lou said, “I can’t think of (3) individual savings, typically had been 10% greater in 2013, in retirement,” NIRS executive agement Services (CMS) stating any senior that would do that, from a defined contribution there would have been about director Dan Doonan said. they would no longer have especially given all of the health plan. But in recent decades, the 500,000 fewer older households “We are on a treacherous path health insurance through the issues many of us face.” number of retirees who receive in poverty. for the future with dwindling state as of January 1, 2020. In fact, one member who pension benefits has signifi- Any decrease in Social pensions and proposals to cut “We were terrified,” Mary was impacted has terminal cantly declined. Security benefits would push Social Security.” Lou said. cancer, another had a stroke, A report from the National even more retired Americans CMS said that notices and yet another has multiple Institute on Retirement Security into poverty. That’s why so had previously been sent to sclerosis. (NIRS) indicates that 40% of many seniors were deeply SERS retirees who had turned AFSCME wasted no time older Americans rely on Social alarmed when President Email Alerts! 65 informing them that upon in reaching out to CMS to get Security for 90% or more of Trump recently indicated a Don’t miss anything! If becoming Medicare-eligible they the problem fixed. Initially their income. Social Security willingness to consider cutting you don't already receive could no longer stay in their the agency was reluctant to alone is not considered enough Social Security if he wins a sec- emails from Chapter 31 Retir- current health plan and had to provide any relief, but after for a secure retirement, and it ond term. ees, email mbritton-sipe@ enroll in a Medicare Advantage AFSCME pointed out how was not intended to stand alone. Without defined benefit afscme31.org to sign up. Plan during the open enrollment disastrous it would be for retir- period (October 15 to November ees to be left without insur- 15). The state took the position ance coverage, the state agreed that any retiree who failed to to reverse course. respond and select a Medicare CMS contacted each Advantage plan during open affected retiree to provide a enrollment had opted out of one-time open enrollment insurance. period which ensured no cov- AFSCME Retirees Chapter erage gap, and all retirees who 31 received dozens of calls from took that opportunity now retirees like the Bradfords who have coverage once again. were shocked and alarmed to AFSCME Chapter 31 Retir- receive the CMS notice regard- ees is on the job for all of us! ing termination of their health coverage. Chapter 31 immedi- ately began an investigation. As it turned out, the notice Retirement sent to retirees earlier in the security shrinks fall was marketed with the TRAIL logo—Total Retiree The number of seniors in Advantage Illinois—rather the U.S. who have access to the than coming from CMS. It’s three-legged stool of retirement likely that many retirees did security has shrunk to 6.8%, not recognize the TRAIL logo leading to an increasing reliance or understand that vital infor- on Social Security and a 200% mation about their insurance spike in the number of older was in those envelopes. Rather, Americans living in poverty. it looked more like the other Long considered the ideal AFSCME Chapter 31 retirees gathered with Council 31 members at the Feb. 1 PEOPLE conference in Springfield to solicitations that bombard for a secure retirement, the approve the union's 2020 legislative agenda and make endorsements for the March 17 primary election (see page 6-7). 16 On the Move January-February 2020

and give that power back and that hope that things will get better. Some days are hard, but most of the time something happens in this courthouse to make me feel like I’ve done a good job. This is who I am. It’s my identity. I advocate for people who are experiencing the worst, most traumatic experiences of their lives. I love to help and empower people to advocate for themselves. When they leave here, they have the tools they need. They feel that they do have it within them- selves to overcome the obstacles they’re going through. They feel they aren’t alone. To see them get on their feet is the reward.

How does your job provide a valuable public service?

Domestic violence impacts individuals, entire families and the whole community. And so do the services we provide. We help individuals get medical care if they need it and other sup- ports so they can go to work and take care of their family. We make sure children are in a safe place. Maybe they are missing school because mom is in a shelter or the car was taken. We make sure the kids are going to school and get- Melinda Barrett ting counseling if they need it. Helping victims AFSCME Local 2060 know they are not alone is so important. How does your union VICTIM WITNESS SUPERVISOR improve your work? COOK COUNTY STATE'S ATTORNEY’S OFFICE Our union is important because we’re able do our job more effectively. We’re here to advocate Tell us about your job at spouse, a child, a relative—and they are des- for victims and empower them. Having a union perate for safety. Many people who come in are empowers us to be able to help them. We have the Cook County State’s questioning themselves, even in the midst of a good camaraderie among the victim specialists Attorney’s Office. the risk to their security. They want to be heard because we see so much trauma. We debrief because they’ve been silenced in a violent rela- and talk about things and how it impacts us. The victim witness assistance unit in our office tionship. They haven’t had the authority or luxury We’re united. assists victims of violent crimes as they navigate to express themselves without ramifications. the criminal justice process. There are more than I listen. I put them at ease. I help them with How has your union job “Domestic violence impacts the impacted your family? After 16 years on the job I got laid off due to whole community. And so do the budget cuts. I got pregnant right after I lost my job and had a baby with special needs. I had just services we provide.” received my last unemployment check and was wondering what I was going to do when I got a call from the office that I was being recalled. 50 victim specialists represented by our local their concerns and issues. We help them do what I got my dream job back. That was absolutely union. We have very large caseloads and cover they need to do to be safe and happy. only done because we had a union contract with all crimes handled in six different courthouses. recall rights based on seniority. We inform people about the court process and It was scary times and it was hard, but I accompany them to court. We look to see what What’s your inspiration to didn’t lose hope. I knew my rights and I was in their needs are as a result of being a victim and go to work every day? partner with social services agencies for service contact with my union and that put me at ease. I referrals like counseling, housing, clothing, immi- I know there is ugliness and evil in this world but came back and worked my way up, and last year gration issues, whatever they need. working in law enforcement and victim advocacy I got a promotion to be the supervisor of the unit. I work in the domestic violence division. gives me hope. People come here broken. They My heart has always been with helping victims of The people we help are dealing with a lot of feel defeated. They are crying and upset. We try violent crime and I never would have gotten my trauma because of abuse by a loved one—their to restore some semblance of who they were job back without my union.