Public service workers deserve respect
Photo credit: AFSCME Staff
These days, our nation’s public service workers have become all too popular punching bags for politicians and pundits who want to slash funding for health, safety, education, and other vital community services. During Public Service Recognition Week, we have an opportunity to stand up against these attacks by showing our appreciation for those who devote their careers to keeping our communities healthy, safe, and strong.
It’s hard to imagine anyone in America whose life goes untouched by public service workers. So much of what we take for granted each day is underpinned by their hard work and professionalism. When we get a glass of clean water from the kitchen sink. When we pull our empty cans up the driveway after trash day. When we rush our children out the door to make the school bus each morning.
Public service workers are there for us throughout the hustle and bustle of our daily lives – and in the most challenging times too. When a loved one needs emergency medical assistance, and fast. When an elderly relative needs a home health aide to continue living with dignity. When a financial hardship leaves a family in need of unemployment benefits or food assistance. We can always count on public service professionals to be there when it matters most.
Our nation’s nurses and caregivers, school custodians and librarians, first responders, corrections officers, and caseworkers don’t do this work for the fame, fortune, or fanfare. They do it because it’s part of who they are. They believe in serving others. And though they are willing to work in often thankless jobs, they deserve better than political attacks and misinformation. They deserve appreciation and respect.
Whether they work for local, state, or federal government, or a nonprofit organization or company that provides public services, these workers also deserve fair pay, decent benefits, safe workplaces, and job security. That’s why so many public service workers have chosen to organize a union like AFSCME. By exercising their collective voice, they can negotiate for a fair return on their work and advocate for the resources our communities need — everything from affordable health care and transit upgrades to smaller classroom sizes and a cleaner environment.
AFSCME members’ passion for community and country is inspiring. They love their jobs and the positive impact they have on the lives of others. If you know an AFSCME member whose extraordinary service is making a difference in your community, click here to nominate him or her for a Never Quit Service award.