The American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSME) has a membership of more than 1.3 million public employees in the United States. This makes it the largest trade union in the country. It has been in existence since 1932.  To date, there are around 3400 local unions within 46 states, as well as Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia. They receive support from 58 councils. They are all under one body, though they can create their structures with their elect officers.

The AFSCME aims to ensure that communities grow healthy, strong, and safe. It also ensures that the normally undervalued public workers receive respect when it comes to their job descriptions and compensation. Compensation goes beyond earnings, also including benefits, safety at work, plans for retirement, and fairness. The types of workers the union represent include childcare providers, corrections officers, school bus drivers, nurses, civil engineers, EMTs, nurses, sanitation workers, and more.

Being a large organization, twice a year AFSCME has an international convention that brings the councils together. In these conventions, union policies are up for discussions and updates where necessary. Officers can hold their council positions for four years, after which an election is held. Elect members include the union president, regional vice presidents, secretary, and treasurer.

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