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 20, 2015
IM -TPP a Step Backward — A recent article by International Association of Machinists & Aerospace Workers (IAMAW) President Tom Buffenbarger called on congress to “put American people first and reject the deeply flawed Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP). “As a labor union whose members build products that are exported all over the world, the IAM has always taken a strong interest in the development and growth of international trade. We know firsthand that trade done right will improve living standards and strengthen our economy,” he began.
“Unfortunately, the recently concluded Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) represents a new low in corporate dominance of our nation’s trade agenda,” he said, explaining that despite rhetoric, it is “a step backward in efforts to achieve effective labor standards and human rights.”
Though the agreement has not been made public yet, Buffenbarger cited reports that indicate among its flaws: weak, ineffective, and substandard labor standards; weakened rules of origin for the auto industry; reduced access to affordable medicine; less effective financial regulations; and secret government tribunals to interpret and enforce the agreement.