District Council 37

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District Council 37 (DC 37) is the largest public employee union in New York City, representing over 150,000 members and 50,000 retirees. It is affiliated with the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), which is part of the AFL-CIO.

History

DC 37 was founded in 1944 to represent the interests of public sector workers in New York City. Over the years, it has grown significantly, both in terms of membership and influence. The union has been involved in numerous labor disputes, contract negotiations, and advocacy efforts to improve the working conditions and benefits for its members.

Structure

The union is composed of 56 local unions, each representing different groups of workers. These locals are organized by job type and agency, allowing for specialized representation and advocacy. The executive board of DC 37 is responsible for the overall governance of the union, with elected officers including the president, executive vice president, and secretary-treasurer.

Membership

DC 37 represents a diverse group of public employees, including clerical workers, health care professionals, social workers, and maintenance staff. The union provides a range of services to its members, including legal representation, educational programs, and health and welfare benefits.

Key Activities

DC 37 is actively involved in collective bargaining, negotiating contracts that cover wages, benefits, and working conditions for its members. The union also engages in political advocacy, lobbying for legislation that benefits public employees and the communities they serve. Additionally, DC 37 offers various training and development programs to help members advance in their careers.

Challenges and Controversies

Like many labor unions, DC 37 has faced challenges, including budget cuts, privatization efforts, and political opposition. The union has also dealt with internal controversies, such as allegations of corruption and mismanagement. Despite these issues, DC 37 remains a powerful advocate for public employees in New York City.

Related Pages

• American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees
• AFL-CIO
• Labor unions in the United States
• Collective bargaining
• Public sector