AFSCME’s Saunders: This Corrections Week, we thank correctional officers and employees for keeping us safe

WASHINGTON — AFSCME President Lee Saunders released the following statement in recognition of National Correctional Officers and Employees Week, which is happening from May 4 through May 10:

“Correctional officers and employees are the unsung heroes of our justice system, keeping our communities safe day in and day out. It’s tough, high-stakes work — one officer can be responsible for hundreds of incarcerated individuals in a single shift. Widespread staffing shortages, mandated overtime and dangerous working conditions take a toll on these selfless heroes and remind us why having the freedom to form a union and demand better workplace safety and fair compensation really matters.

“This week, as we thank corrections officers and employees for their service and sacrifice, we must also pledge to defend their rights and freedoms. Billionaires and corporate CEOs want to privatize correctional facilities and sell out our justice system, putting officers’ lives at risk while stripping away their voice on the job. Through a new executive order, they’ll funnel millions in federal contracts to private prisons and CEOs — while slashing the funding state facilities rely on. They want correctional officers to protect profits, not people, which would put the safety of entire communities at risk.

“We can’t stand by and let corporations sacrifice our communities and our safety so they can get richer. This Corrections Week, it’s time to take action: Tell Congress to support our correctional officers with better pay, safer working conditions, and getting them the backup they deserve. From the bargaining table to the halls of government, that is our calling and that is our commitment.”