Oregon — Young People: AFSCME’s ‘Next Wave’

Bend, Oregon

THE FUTURE | Young members of Oregon Council 75 recently participated in the union’s convention in Bend. They are first to join the “The AFSCME Northwest Next Wave Project.”

Photo Credit: Don Loving

Securing the future of tomorrow’s working families depends on nurturing the young leaders and activists of today. That’s why Oregon Council 75 has launched an innovative new program designed to increase union activism among its young members by developing their political, legislative and organizing skills.

Called “The AFSCME Northwest Next Wave Project,” the initiative is already demonstrating success. In April, about 15 members, all 35 years or younger, were awarded scholarships to attend — as non-voting guests — the council’s biennial convention in Bend. There, they (and 10 other young member delegates) conducted the first meeting of the statewide Next Wave Committee, electing eight regional co-chairs and two lead chairpersons.

With more AFSCME activists approaching retirement, building the union’s strength among young members is increasingly important, and the Next Wave project will also work to increase the youthful members’ participation at affiliate conventions and the 2008 International Convention.

Support for this new effort is on the rise: Plans are underway to expand the Next Wave Project in the northwest, with the Washington Federation of State Employees/AFSCME Council 28 next in line to do so.