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.
August 3, 2015
IM -Since 1927, Wisconsin law has required employers in manufacturing and retail to give workers at least one 24-hour period off per calendar week. Union-busting Governor Scott Walker repealed the law on July 12 with an amendment to a two-year budget. According to the new law, working seven days in a row is “voluntary,” but as Donald Kettl, former head of the University of Wisconsin’s La Follette School of Public Affairs contends, many workers will probably feel they are putting their job at risk if they refuse. The old law allowed for waivers, such as for retail workers during the Christmas season, which provided records to monitor possible abuse by employers.