Strategy and Structure: Debating Labor's Future

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John Sweeney, John Wilhelm, James Hoffa, Andrew Stern

May 2005

AFL-CIO leaders convened in Las Vegas March 1-3 for one of the most contentious Executive Council meetings in the federation’s recent history. Dueling leaders and power blocs—on one side stood SEIU President Andy Stern and allies, on the other federation President John Sweeney and his supporters—debated restructuring plans that each side said would turn around the ailing fortunes of Labor in the United States.

While much of the debate narrowed at the meeting to a focus on per-capita dues rebates, it’s clear that that many are recognizing the need for a new approach to building the labor movement. In this new series, Labor Notes hopes to bring together different voices in this debate. Your feedback, thoughts, and responses are greatly encouraged.