AFSCME Public Safety

05/12/2026

“Correctional officers live solidarity in a way that most can only hope to understand. Every day, they put their lives on the line for others, trusting that their brothers and sisters in uniform will be there beside them,” said St. Pierre, who was honored along with his co-workers at the Connecticut AFL-CIO event. “That bond is sacred. It's not built on empty words, but on the shared experience of risking their lives in service to their community, with long nights on the job and split-second moments.”

https://afscmepublicsafety.org/news/afscme-corrections-officers-connecticut-recognized-making-workplaces

05/11/2026

Recently, 204 names were read aloud at National Fallen Firefighters Memorial in Emmitsburg, Maryland. Each one was a firefighter recently lost in the line of duty. This year, the candlelight vigil and memorial service honored the memory of former AFSCME Council 13 member David Warfel, a DCNR Forest District Maintenance Supervisor and member of multiple local volunteer fire companies. Brother Warfel ‘s commitment to his co-workers or department and community was unmatched. He passed away on May 29, 2025, at DCNR’s Bureau of Forestry’s Wildland Fire Academy, doing what he loved most, teaching and instructing.

Dave's colleagues in DCNR's Bureau of Forestry, Division of Forest Fire Protection, honor his memory by carrying on his legacy of dedication to the profession of firefighting.

Hear them share memories and discuss the important work they do to protect the public and natural ecosystems: Watch Video Here

The AFSCME Fallen Heroes Fund provides relief and immediate assistance to members who fall victim to natural disasters and other tragedies. Since its inception the fund has provided financial assistance to nearly 5,000 members. You can donate by clicking here.

05/10/2026

“This week, we honor the brave AFSCME members serving in law enforcement who risk their lives every day to protect our communities and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty,” said AFSCME President Lee Saunders.

“These public service workers dedicate themselves to keeping our communities safe in times of crisis. But too often, their mission is made harder by workplace obstacles like inadequate training that undermines readiness, safety, morale and well-being, making a dangerous job even more difficult and contributing to burnout. They deserve the policies that will ensure they make it home safely to their families at the end of their shifts," Saunders added.

During National Law Enforcement Week, downtown Washington, D.C., teems with uniformed officers from every corner of the country. They come together to honor their colleagues who have fallen in the line of duty.It is a solemn week, with a candlelight vigil and reverent wreath-laying ceremonies at the...

05/10/2026

Thank you to the law enforcement officers who put on the badge every day and dedicate their lives to protecting our communities.

During National Law Enforcement Week, we recognize the courage, sacrifice, and commitment of officers who work tirelessly to keep our communities safe.

We also honor and remember the officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Their service and bravery will never be forgotten.

05/10/2026

Union moms do it all: raise families, care for others and fight for dignity on the job. This Mother’s Day, we honor the working mothers who never stop showing up for their loved ones, coworkers and communities.

05/06/2026

This study should’ve been done first, said Justin Hubly, executive director for the Nebraska Association of Public Employees (AFSCME Local 61), which represents non-security staff. Instead, the plan was announced as a sure thing to staff earlier this year, he said.

The plan, which would involve moving youth among five state-run facilities, came as a surprise to many advocates, lawmakers and staff earlier this year.

05/05/2026

What happens when a prison or jail doesn’t have enough corrections workers on staff?

What happens when a prison or jail doesn’t have enough corrections workers on staff? Here’s how AFSCME member and Corrections Officer Mitchell Spruiell explains it: “With fewer eyes, there are slower response times, and everyone is stretched thin and that adds to the tension. It builds and bui...

05/04/2026

This National Correctional Officers and Employees Week, we pause to salute the service and sacrifices of the workers who dedicate their lives to keeping us all safe. We thank you, and we commit to continuing the fight for fair pay, better working conditions, safe staffing levels and the respect you deserve.

05/01/2026

Mental Health Awareness Month is a reminder that taking care of your mental health is just as important as your physical health, especially for those working in corrections every day. 💚

The work is demanding. The pressure is real. And the impact doesn’t always stay on the job.

At AFSCME Texas Corrections, we believe in supporting the whole person. That means showing up for our members, standing together, and making sure no one has to carry it alone.

If you’re struggling, take the time you need. Reach out. Talk to someone.
You are not alone.

We’ve got your back. 💚

04/30/2026

This is the power of being in a union. 💪 When our members need support, we show up. Every time.

04/29/2026