American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO)

Definition

The AFL-CIO is a federation of unions that represents millions of workers across the United States, formed in 1955 through the merger of the American Federation of Labor (AFL) and the Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO). This organization aims to advance the interests of its members through collective bargaining, political action, and advocacy for workers' rights, while also addressing broader social and economic issues affecting the labor movement.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The AFL-CIO is the largest federation of labor unions in the United States, representing over 12 million workers from various sectors.
2. The merger that created the AFL-CIO was significant as it unified two major labor groups with different philosophies: the AFL focused on skilled trades while the CIO represented industrial workers.
3. The AFL-CIO engages in political advocacy to influence legislation that impacts workers' rights, minimum wage laws, and workplace safety regulations.
4. The organization plays a crucial role in mobilizing union members during elections to support pro-labor candidates and policies.
5. The AFL-CIO promotes international solidarity among workers, advocating for fair labor practices globally and supporting human rights initiatives.

Review Questions

• How did the merger of the AFL and CIO shape the structure and goals of the AFL-CIO?
  • The merger of the AFL and CIO in 1955 combined two distinct approaches to labor organization: the AFL's focus on skilled trades and craft unions and the CIO's emphasis on industrial unions. This unification allowed for a more comprehensive representation of American workers across various sectors. By bringing together these different strategies, the AFL-CIO aimed to strengthen collective bargaining power, enhance political advocacy, and better address the needs of a diverse workforce.
• Discuss the impact of the AFL-CIO on labor rights legislation in the United States.
  • The AFL-CIO has significantly influenced labor rights legislation through its advocacy efforts. By mobilizing union members and leveraging political action committees, the organization has played a key role in pushing for laws that protect workers' rights, such as minimum wage increases and enhanced workplace safety standards. The AFL-CIO's efforts are evident in landmark legislation like the Fair Labor Standards Act, which established minimum wage and overtime pay protections.
• Evaluate how the AFL-CIO's approach to collective bargaining reflects broader social issues in American society.
  • The AFL-CIO's approach to collective bargaining not only addresses immediate worker concerns but also reflects broader social issues such as economic inequality and social justice. By negotiating fair wages and benefits for its members, the AFL-CIO aims to reduce income disparity and improve living standards. Furthermore, its commitment to advocating for marginalized groups aligns with a growing recognition of intersectionality within labor movements, demonstrating how labor rights are interconnected with wider societal issues like racial equality and gender justice.

Related terms

Collective Bargaining: The process by which unions negotiate contracts with employers on behalf of their members, covering wages, benefits, working conditions, and other employment terms.

Labor Union: An organized group of workers who come together to make decisions about the terms of their work, including pay, benefits, and working conditions.

Social Justice: The concept that advocates for fair treatment and a just society for all individuals, particularly focusing on marginalized groups and workers' rights.