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The AFSCME International Convention: Union Democracy in Action

Every two years, thousands of AFSCME members and retirees from across the nation get together to discuss issues of vital importance to our communities, our workplaces and our union. Through open discussion of the issues that matter to public service workers and working families, delegates set our union’s priorities, renew shared commitments and strategize to make us stronger.

This year, our 47th International Convention is being held at an unprecedented moment in history. Anti-worker politicians and their billionaire friends are going after the essential public services our communities rely on, and it’s up to AFSCME members to fight back.

But this year we also celebrate our union’s 90th anniversary, and as we reflect on our history, we know that we have what it takes to win. We may have started out small, but over the decades, we’ve grown exponentially in size, learned from both victory and loss, and broadened our horizons. That’s why, despite the unprecedented attacks against us, we can proudly and confidently say that we were Built for This Moment!


Convention delegates are elected in a democratic process by their fellow AFSCME members.

Most locals, councils and retiree chapters have representation at Convention, which, when in session, is the highest governing body of our union. The AFSCME International Constitution offers guidance regarding how to become a delegate, as well as the allotment of delegates to Convention.

Delegates debate and vote on resolutions and amendments to our constitution, connect and network with other workers in their fields, share knowledge and learn the skills to become better activists and organizers.

Union leaders are elected by Convention delegates.

At least every four years, or more frequently when vacancies occur, we must elect the officers who will lead our union. Through a democratic process that gives every member the opportunity to make their voice heard, secret ballots are cast for International Union President, Secretary-Treasurer and Vice Presidents.

This year, due to the announced retirements of AFSCME’s International President, Secretary-Treasurer, and several Vice Presidents, we will elect officers who will lead our union. A description of the voting process can be found in the Delegate Guide and on the website. Voting times and locations will be posted on the website and on the Convention App.

Convention business begins months before the event, with AFSCME members and retirees discussing issues of vital importance to our communities at the local level.

Some of these discussions lead to proposed resolutions and constitutional amendments that are sent to the International Secretary-Treasurer. The International Union distributes copies of these resolutions and constitutional amendments to Convention delegates for them to debate and vote on.

In a gathering of several thousand people, rules of order are essential to conduct business in an organized and democratic way. Delegates who participate in debate must familiarize themselves with the rules of Convention, which include when and how to address the floor. Robert’s Rules of Order is a useful reference.

AFSCME members share their personal stories of public service.

A crowd favorite of the Convention floor program is AFSCME members sharing their passion for public service through personal stories of dedication and hard work.

It’s the story of what makes our union unique: our never quit spirit.

AFSCME members also hear from elected officials and thought leaders who share our values.

Convention is an opportunity to become a better union activist.

Through workshops and group discussions, members can share their own expertise and learn from veteran activists on a wide variety of topics — political action, organizing, communications and more.

During Convention, AFSCME members also engage in community action.

“The Convention is where we chart the future of our union and where you can become a better warrior for public service workers everywhere. It’s the place where AFSCME members from every corner of America who make their communities better every single day can come together. I welcome you to the Convention and look forward to working with you to make AFSCME the best union we can be.”

As AFSCME President Lee Saunders put it,

Union governance is what convention is mostly about

But delegates also…

Train to Build Union Power

AFSCME members and retirees train to build union and political power at Convention by honing their organizing skills, which come in handy especially in election years. They learn strategies for mobilizing fellow union members back home and electing candidates for local, state and national office.

Learn New Union Skills

During Convention week, delegates learn new union skills by attending and participating in workshops. Topics include becoming a VMO (Volunteer Member Organizer), mastering union governance, running for political office, lobbying for working families, implementing the AFSCME electoral agenda and more!

Connect with Fellow Union Members and Retirees

Convention is a great place and time to connect with fellow union members and retirees. At sector round tables, affiliate booths and workshops, participants find many opportunities to share information and best practices with union activists and public service workers in their fields.

Share Our Stories of Why We Never Quit

What better way to feel AFSCME pride than to hear our stories of why we never quit? At every Convention, AFSCME members and retirees take to the floor to share moving, inspiring stories of public service.

Take Action to Make Our Voices Heard

Throughout Convention week, delegates visit an action center to make their voices heard. They take political and legislative action to make our union stronger.

We’ve got you (and Convention) covered

How do I follow along?

On our Convention website, you’ll find the latest news on official Convention business and related activities, including blogs, photos and videos of delegates hard at work making our union stronger.

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