The 47th AFSCME International Convention is democracy in action, where union members conduct the business of the union and set our agenda for the next two years.
However, it is also a place where anti-union forces may show up and try to do us harm.
Please be vigilant for extremist organizations whose moles may try to ensnare you during Convention week.
They may try to initiate casual social interactions at nearby bars or through dating apps and secretly record you. Or they may try to conduct a public, ambush-style interview and manipulate the video to make it appear as though union members are doing something unethical or illegal.
Here are tips to stay on guard:
- Don’t talk to strangers about contentious topics. Operatives will try to lure you into conversations about illegal, unethical, or politically contentious behavior. Don’t engage.
- Trust your instincts. If a conversation drifts toward topics that make you uncomfortable or if you suspect someone is recording you, leave immediately and notify your delegation leader or an AFSCME staff member.
- Verify people’s identities. Everyone attending the Convention must wear an AFSCME badge. If they don’t have a badge, that is a red flag.
- Be wary of strangers striking up conversations or suggesting a “date.” Operatives often set up shop at hotel bars because people are drinking and bars are public spaces. Be mindful of who might be around you.
- Say what you mean. People are often nice to avoid being disagreeable. However, if someone is saying things you disagree with, politely restate your own values and end the conversation.
As always, when in doubt, ask an AFSCME staff member for help.