The American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) is an essential entity in the history of labor movements in the United States. Formed in 1955 through the merger of two previously antagonistic bodies—the American Federation of Labor (AFL) and the Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO)—the AFL-CIO has since become a significant federation comprising 57 national and international labor unions.
Historical Context
Formation of the American Federation of Labor (AFL)
The AFL was established in 1886, originally as an alliance of craft unions disaffected from the Knights of Labor. The focus of the AFL was primarily on skilled workers, advocating for better wages, hours, and working conditions.
Emergence of the Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO)
The CIO was formed in 1935 as a federation that organized workers in mass production industries along industrial union lines rather than by craft. It aimed to include all workers within an industry, skilled or unskilled.
Merger of AFL and CIO
By 1955, the AFL and CIO had realized the benefits of solidarity and united under one banner after years of rivalry. This merger solidified the labor movement’s strength in representing workers’ rights and interests in the United States.
Structure and Governance
The AFL-CIO operates under a democratic structure where each affiliated union elects delegates to represent them in the federation’s conventions. The federation is governed by an Executive Council, which is responsible for carrying out its policies and decisions.
Key Functions
- Collective Bargaining: Assists in negotiating labor contracts.
- Legislative Advocacy: Engages in political activities to promote labor-friendly legislation.
- Training and Education: Provides educational resources and leadership training for union members.
- Global Solidarity: Collaborates with international labor organizations to support workers’ rights globally.
Examples of AFL-CIO Activities
- Political Endorsements: The AFL-CIO often endorses candidates who support labor rights in elections.
- Strike Support: Provides logistical and financial support to unions during strikes.
- Public Campaigns: Engages in public awareness campaigns on issues like minimum wage increases and workplace safety.
Comparison with Other Labor Federations
AFL-CIO vs. Change to Win Federation
In 2005, several unions split from the AFL-CIO to form the Change to Win Federation. This was due to disagreements on organizing strategies and the allocation of resources. Both federations aim to advance labor rights, but they approach union organizing and advocacy differently.
Related Terms
- Collective Bargaining: The process by which unions negotiate with employers on behalf of their members.
- Union Shop: A workplace where employees must join the union within a certain period after being hired.
- Strike: A work stoppage caused by the mass refusal of employees to work, often used as a protest.
FAQs
What does AFL-CIO stand for?
How many unions are part of the AFL-CIO?
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References
- Bernstein, I. (1971). “The Lean Years: A History of the American Worker.”
- Zieger, R. H. (1995). “The CIO, 1935-1955.”
- AFL-CIO official website. https://www.aflcio.org
Summary
The AFL-CIO, through its storied history and expansive coalition, has played and continues to play a pivotal role in championing labor rights in the United States. Understanding its origins, governance, and activities provides crucial insights into the broader labor movement and its ongoing impact on workers’ lives.
