Public Employee Press

Union’s battle for fair budgets
Political Action 2005: Fundraising
PEOPLE drive on the move

It’s a recreational sport and a mood elevator — everyone loves to shop. The new PEOPLE store on the main floor of union headquarters is the hottest spot for DC 37 members to flex their spending — and political — muscles.

Members can outfit themselves with T-shirts, hats, buttons, jackets and more. These PEOPLE items make great gifts and send a strong political message. The best part is that the proceeds raise political awareness and much-needed funds. PEOPLE (Public Employees Organized to Promote Legislative Equality), is the political, legislative and fundraising arm of AFSCME, DC 37’s national union.

The union speeded up its PEOPLE drive in 2005 with activities such as regular local coordinators’ meetings, a bus ride to Atlantic City on May 6, the DC 37 flea market and now the PEOPLE store, which is open from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

As city employees, DC 37 members know their jobs, wages and benefits all depend on politics.
The union needs members’ active participation to strengthen its political clout at City Hall, in Albany and on Capitol Hill.

The American labor movement is in a tough battle to save Social Security, collective bargaining and welfare benefits from anti-union initiatives and rollbacks in Washington. A PEOPLE purchase can help your union fight back and win.

PEOPLE is nothing without members’ support. During the DC 37 PEOPLE drive, members can make a difference by shopping in the store and giving to PEOPLE or increasing their contributions.

PEOPLE money helps support politicians, regardless of party affiliation, who respect and understand public employees’ needs.