What We Do

We are the great convener of labor throughout the state. No other organization in the commonwealth represents so many different unions and so many union workers, across such a wide array of industries and occupations. And no other organization has our power to bring together unions and union leadership from every sector and every corner of our state in common pursuit of shared goals.

• We provide a voice for all working people in the commonwealth, whether they carry a union card or not. We make sure workers’ concerns and issues are heard and acted on in state government, on key boards and commissions, in our communities, and in the media. When the press, the public, and elected officials want to understand the issues that affect working people, they look to the Massachusetts AFL-CIO.
• We fight for workers’ well-being and quality of life. We lead the way in championing the right of all Bay State residents to collectively bargain; living wages; affordable, accessible, quality healthcare; safe workplaces; secure retirements; a voice on the job; a strong safety net in the event of job loss, injury, or disability; quality public schools and colleges; affordable housing; and vibrant communities.
• We strive to build a stronger and fairer economy centered on good jobs and shared prosperity. We work on every front to strengthen current industries and create new ones in our commonwealth, from green jobs to destination resort casinos to biotech. At the same time, we’re committed to building a high-road economy in which the rewards of economic growth are broadly shared. It’s only fair that companies that receive taxpayer- funded incentives to locate and grow in Massachusetts should hire Bay State workers and provide good, family- sustaining jobs.
• We unite all working people on a regular basis to strengthen our voice and further the future success of the labor movement. We hold frequent events throughout the state every year to bring our unions together with one common voice. Our annual COPE/Constitutional Convention brings together our union delegates to pass resolutions that give credence to our vision for the working families of the commonwealth. Our Futures Program centers on the cultivation of our young leaders in the labor movement who want to make a difference.

How We Do It

By mobilizing our affiliated unions, members, and community allies, we maximize our collective strength to bring about positive change. Specifically, we focus our efforts in the following areas:

• Organizing. We support all workers who seek a better life and brighter future through union representation. And we assist our affiliated unions in their organizing efforts. In 2008, we were incredibly successful, adding nearly 80,000 new union members in Massachusetts, among the largest percentage increases in union membership of any state in the nation.
• Bargaining and strike support. A strong contract is the key to ensuring worker rights. We support our affiliated unions in bargaining contracts that provide fair pay, good benefits, retirement security, and a safer, more democratic workplace. During negotiations or strikes, we use our leverage and credibility among businesses, employers, elected officials and the media to help resolve disputes quickly, fairly, and favorably for workers.
• Workforce development. Lifelong education and training is essential for Massachusetts workers to compete in a rapidly changing economy. It’s also the best way to ensure that we can create new industries and attract good jobs to our commonwealth. We obtain funding for and facilitate first-rate training and professional development for both current and displaced workers.
• Political education and action. We educate and mobilize union members around local, state, and national races, endorsing and supporting candidates who will advocate for working families. We work especially hard to elect union members to office, recognizing that no one represents working people more effectively than one of our own.
• Legislative advocacy. At the federal, state, and local levels, we fight for and achieve pro-worker and family-friendly laws and policies, such as higher minimum wages and laws that make it easier to form unions. Our grassroots network of union activists is strong and rapidly growing, giving us a powerful voice in every voting district across the state.
• Community involvement. Unions have always given back to our communities. Our charitable and community service initiatives include our annual Walk to Cure Cancer, which has raised millions for cancer research; our highly successful college scholarship program; and our longstanding support of the United Way of Massachusetts Bay and the United Way of Central Massachusetts.
• Outreach to the press and public. We tell the true story of unions and union members to the media and the public. We also create strong coalitions with community groups who share our belief in human rights, labor rights, and a fair deal for workers.