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.
January 1, 2021
IM -President-Elect Joe Biden has nominated Katherine Tai to be the US Trade Representative for the incoming administration. If confirmed by the Senate, Tai, who currently serves as the chief trade counsel for the U.S. House Ways and Means Committee, would play a key role in negotiating trade agreements with China and other countries. She would also be the first Asian American and first woman of color to serve as U.S. Trade Representative.
Numerous unions and trade groups applauded the nomination after it was made on December 10. AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka issued a statement saying, “the nomination of a worker-champion as U.S. trade representative is a resounding victory for our families and communities. Tai brings the needed expertise to develop a pro-worker trade agenda, including enforceable labor protections. … President-elect Biden is living up to his word to forge a bold new direction, and with Tai as the U.S. trade representative, we will be strongly positioned to advance a fair trade agenda that makes the world safer and workers stronger.”