AFSCME DC 33 strike reveals divisions within Philadelphia’s labor movement.

In a significant challenge for Philadelphia’s labor movement, Danny Bauder, president of the Philadelphia Council AFL-CIO, is striving to unify the local unions amidst a backdrop of recent turmoil. Elected in 2022, Bauder has set forth an ambitious agenda aimed at fostering solidarity among the various labor organizations that comprise his federation, a politically influential coalition representing numerous workers.

The recent eight-day strike by District Council 33 (DC 33) of the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees marked the first major city workers’ strike in four decades. This development presented a pivotal moment for Bauder’s vision of labor unity. However, the incident exposed significant divisions within organized labor while local unions geared up for upcoming disputes involving teachers and transit workers from SEPTA.

During the strike, which significantly disrupted municipal services as 9,000 city workers demanded higher wages, unions faced a complex dilemma. Many were caught between supporting their fellow union members in DC 33 and maintaining affiliations with the city administration headed by Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. Ultimately, negotiations resulted in a tentative agreement that provided a 3% pay increase annually, falling short of the 5% raise sought by DC 33.

The strike has since stirred tensions within the labor community, particularly concerning the actions of some construction union members who assisted the Parker administration in maintaining operations during the work stoppage, including supporting the Wawa Welcome America concert. Critics argue that such actions undermine the solidarity that unions strive to uphold.

Responses from union leaders have varied. Teamsters Local 107, led by Bill Hamilton, made it clear that they refrained from crossing the picket line while highlighting the implications of labor loyalty. Other union leaders remained silent amid the rising disputes, underscoring the complicated dynamics at play.

Leading organizations like the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees and the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers face their own challenges. As the latter currently negotiates its contract, the president expressed disappointment over the concept of “scabbing,” which he labeled as outright betrayal of labor principles.

Despite the challenges that lie ahead, including the necessity for healing and rebuilding relationships, Bauder remains committed to his original goal of fostering unity. The mayor acknowledged that mending the rifts created by the recent labor strife will require time and effort from all involved.

The situation continues to evolve, with reflections on the relationship between labor organizations, a supportive mayoral administration, and the future trajectory of collective bargaining in Philadelphia on the forefront of discussions in labor circles.