Now is the right time to become an American Federation of Musicians member. From ragtime to rap, from the early phonograph to today's digital recordings, the AFM has been there for its members. And now there are more benefits available to AFM members than ever before, including a multi-million dollar pension fund, excellent contract protection, instrument and travelers insurance, work referral programs and access to licensed booking agents to keep you working.
As an AFM member, you are part of a membership of more than 80,000 musicians. Experience has proven that collective activity on behalf of individuals with similar interests is the most effective way to achieve a goal. The AFM can negotiate agreements and administer contracts, procure valuable benefits and achieve legislative goals. A single musician has no such power.
The AFM has a proud history of managing change rather than being victimized by it. We find strength in adversity, and when the going gets tough, we get creative - all on your behalf.
Like the industry, the AFM is also changing and evolving, and its policies and programs will move in new directions dictated by its members. As a member, you will determine these directions through your interest and involvement. Your membership card will be your key to participation in governing your union, keeping it responsive to your needs and enabling it to serve you better. To become a member now, visit www.afm.org/join.
October 24, 2015
IM -20,000 Pensioners Lose Health Benefits in Canada — United Steelworkers (USW) Ontario Director Marty Warren blames Canada’s federal conservative government for 20,000 pensioners losing their health and drug benefits overnight last week.
Under US Steel Canada’s bankruptcy proceedings the company will be severed from its parent company, US Steel, and allowed to stop paying the benefits, as well as its municipal taxes to the City of Hamilton and Haldimand County.
“Our federal government allowed US Steel to take over some of the most modern and efficient steelmaking facilities in North America, based on legal commitments to workers, pensioners, and communities,” says USW Local 8782 President Bill Ferguson. “It’s time for this government to step up—before this election—and help us save and rebuild this industry.
The province of Ontario will provide $3 million for a hardship fund to help US Steel pensioners pay health care and prescription drug costs. It will only fund costs for about six months.