Illinois labor movement supports state employees

Following is a letter to AFSCME-represented state employees from nearly two dozen Illinois union leaders in the public and private sectors.

A Message for the Members of AFSCME Council 31:

We know that state employees like you face an unprecedented assault from a governor who seeks to strip you of your rights and drive down your income. Bruce Rauner has consistently tried to paint you in the worst possible light—overpaid and underworked—while at the same time trying to weaken your union, drastically increase your health care costs, and freeze your wages for four years.

We want you to know that we value the work you do every day—much of it difficult and demanding. We know how often you go the extra mile to serve the people of this state.

We also want you to know that we stand with you now as Governor Rauner tries to impose his extreme and unfair terms on you. You are surely on the front lines of a battle of critical importance to every working person in our state.

There’s no doubt that Rauner seeks conflict and confrontation while you have consistently urged reasoned negotiations and expressed your willingness to compromise to find common ground.

Whatever course you choose to take to defend your rights, your family’s well-being, and the vital services you provide, we hope that you will draw strength from the knowledge that you are not alone. Your fight is our fight and you can count on our support in the difficult days ahead.

In unity,