AFL-CIO

Definition

The AFL-CIO, or the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations, is a federation of labor unions in the United States that was formed in 1955 through the merger of two major union groups. This organization plays a vital role in advocating for workers' rights and labor issues, influencing labor relations and collective bargaining across various industries. Its establishment marked a significant moment in labor history, as it aimed to unify different labor movements and strengthen their political power.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The AFL-CIO represents about 12.5 million workers across various sectors in the U.S., making it one of the largest labor federations in the country.
2. One of the AFL-CIO's primary goals is to improve wages and working conditions for its members through collective bargaining and political activism.
3. The organization has been involved in key political movements and elections, endorsing candidates who support pro-labor policies.
4. Throughout its history, the AFL-CIO has faced challenges such as declining union membership and changes in the economy that have affected workers' rights.
5. The AFL-CIO has played a significant role in advocating for legislation that benefits workers, such as minimum wage increases and health care reforms.

Review Questions

• How did the formation of the AFL-CIO in 1955 impact labor relations in the United States?
  • The formation of the AFL-CIO in 1955 marked a pivotal moment in labor relations by uniting diverse labor movements under one federation. This consolidation aimed to amplify the voice of workers and strengthen their political clout. As a result, it led to more cohesive strategies for collective bargaining, enabling unions to negotiate better terms for workers across various industries.
• Analyze how the decline in union membership has affected the influence of the AFL-CIO in contemporary labor relations.
  • The decline in union membership over recent decades has significantly impacted the AFL-CIO's influence in labor relations. With fewer members, unions face challenges in negotiating favorable contracts and advocating for worker rights effectively. This decrease has also led to reduced political power, making it harder for the AFL-CIO to lobby for pro-labor legislation and policies that benefit workers.
• Evaluate the role of the AFL-CIO in shaping modern collective bargaining processes and its response to economic changes affecting workers.
  • The AFL-CIO has been instrumental in shaping modern collective bargaining processes by providing training and resources to member unions while advocating for fair labor practices at both state and federal levels. In response to economic changes such as globalization and technological advancements that threaten job security, the AFL-CIO has adapted its strategies to address these challenges. This includes focusing on organizing efforts in emerging industries and pushing for policies that protect workers' rights in an evolving economy.

Related terms

Collective Bargaining:

The process by which workers, through their unions, negotiate with employers over wages, hours, benefits, and working conditions.

Labor Union: An organization of workers formed to protect and advance their rights and interests, often through collective bargaining.

Union Membership: The status of being a member of a labor union, which provides workers with representation and support in negotiations with employers.