Friend,

On the first Monday of every September, we celebrate the selflessness and sacrifice of all working people. But this year, the Labor Day tribute takes on even greater weight. Because this year, during the worst public health crisis in a century, working people are rising to the moment in new, extraordinary ways.

But as essential workers — so many of them proud union members — stand fearlessly on the front lines, many of their jobs are at risk, thanks to an administration that has ignored the sacrifices of public service workers.

The result is being felt by Americans in every community — less trash pickup, fewer people to process unemployment claims, a slowdown in essential public services we all need to survive this pandemic. And make no mistake: Donald Trump is to blame. That’s why this election is so important.

Our jobs are at risk because President Trump and his enablers in the U.S. Senate refuse to make sure states and local governments have the funds they need to keep public service workers on the job.

Some AFSCME members are already dealing with layoffs and furloughs. But it will get worse unless we take action — NOW. This November, we have a chance to change our leadership, and to elect a president who respects our service and will fight with us to fund the front lines through this pandemic.

But first, we must make sure this election is fair and that every vote is protected. AFSCME members already know what it’s like to serve our communities. We do it every day. And by working the polls on Election Day and at early voting sites, we can make certain our neighbors can make their voices heard.

Visit our Virtual Field Offices today to learn how you can sign up to be an official poll worker.

The stakes in this election are higher than we’ve ever imagined. What hangs in the balance is the health of our people, the vitality of our communities and the fundamentals of our economy. Working people defend and fortify these pillars. That is what makes labor strong.

Happy Labor Day.

In solidarity,

Lee Saunders
AFSCME President