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.
July 30, 2019
IM -by Dave Pomeroy
performed at the 101st AFM Convention
There once was a time many years ago
When the boss had the power to just say no
No breaks, no vacation, no 40-hour week
He’d say “take it or leave it” and throw you out on the street
Kids working in sweatshops all day long
No one dared to question it or say it was wrong
‘Til workers formed unions and stood up for what’s right
They gave to us all, a much better life
CHORUS
‘Cause Unions are the reason there’s a minimum wage
Weekends, vacations, lunch breaks and sick days
Organized labor made all this come true
Don’t ever forget – what Unions did for you
Now we’re in a time that has turned back around
Once again the rich are tryin’ to keep workers down
“Right to Work” really means “Right to Work for Less”
And that just ain’t right, we deserve more respect
So we’re asking Congress to help our pension plans
But it’s not a bailout, just a helping hand
We’ll pay it back and pay it forward too
And keep workers working that’s what unions do
CHORUS
Unions are the reason there’s a minimum wage
Weekends, vacations, lunch breaks and sick days
Organized labor made all this come true
Don’t ever forget – what Unions did for you
Don’t ever forget – what Unions did for you
For me and for you…
(copyright 2018 – Groove Room Music)