Local Leaders Unite to Kick Off State Contract Action Campaign

More than 100 local union leaders from across Pennsylvania came together March 6-7 to launch AFSCME Council 13’s State Contract Action Campaign, kicking off a statewide effort to organize and mobilize members ahead of negotiations with the Commonwealth.

This event brought together activists representing state agencies across the Commonwealth for two days of camaraderie and collaboration focused on winning the strongest possible contract for state workers.

After opening with the Pledge of Allegiance led by military veterans, participants took part in multiple sessions designed to prepare leaders to organize and mobilize their coworkers in the months ahead. The training focused on key elements of the campaign, including organizing strategies, strategic communications, and political and legislative engagement.

“Bringing locals together from across Pennsylvania for this contract training reminded us that we’re stronger when we stand united,” said Mario Alpini, President of AFSCME Local 2154, representing Delaware County PennDOT members.

“Whether you work at PennDOT, PASSHE, DCNR, or any other agency, we are all in this together. What happens in one part of the Commonwealth affects us all.”

The training opened with a presentation on Council 13’s rich history from Bobbie Jo Zapor, President of Local 763 at IUP. She discussed the power that state workers have built through collective action over generations — a reminder that the gains workers enjoy today were won because AFSCME members stood together in solidarity.

“As we prepare to negotiate our next contract, we are not starting from scratch. We are negotiating inside a structure that was pressured into existence, built deliberately, and tested under real economic strain,” Bobbie said.

Participants were briefed on some of the economic headwinds facing state workers and how AFSCME members can build on the work of their predecessors to advocate for the critical jobs they perform every day. As AFSCME’s history shows, amid the challenges there can also be opportunity when workers stick together.

Leaders participated in agency-specific breakout sessions, where members discussed the unique challenges facing their workplaces and began identifying the priorities that will help shape the union’s bargaining agenda.

Those conversations gave members an opportunity to compare experiences across worksites, identify shared concerns, and to start laying the groundwork for member participation that will be essential as the campaign continues.

“As a local president, it was really encouraging to be in a room with leaders from across Pennsylvania who understand the challenges our members face every day. The breakout sessions were especially valuable because they gave us the opportunity to share ideas, speak honestly about the concerns of Commonwealth employees, and strengthen our organizing as we prepare for negotiations,” said Robert Denison, President of Local 2579, representing Blair County Clericals.

“I’m leaving the training energized and optimistic about the campaign ahead. Our members keep the Commonwealth running every day, and when we stand together and speak with one voice, we’re in a strong position to fight for the respect and contract our members deserve.”

This kickoff marks the beginning of a long-term effort to engage members across every state agency. Winning a strong contract requires active participation from members throughout the Commonwealth. Be on the lookout for the Member Action Survey, which is being built with input and guidance from union activists. The survey will allow you and your fellow members to raise what matters to you in negotiations and what steps you’re willing to take to make those demands a reality. 

In the meantime, if you have not done so already, you and your local members are encouraged to take the next step in the campaign by completing the Contract Action Commitment Form.

TAKE ACTION HERE

This campaign will continue in the months ahead with additional training opportunities, workplace outreach, and member engagement as Council 13 members organize together for a contract that respects the work we do making Pennsylvania happen.

As Local 2366 (East Stroudsburg University) President Leslie Raser put it: “We joined together, we learned new things, we contributed, and the contract preparation journey has begun. Get ready, Council 13 members, YOU are going to help make the 2027 contract the best yet!”