The Membership of the New Jersey Firemen's Mutual Benevolent Association voted today to become a part of the National Association of Government Employees. Entering this great Union into the National House of Labor. More details to follow!
From NAGE website 3/15/05
Historic Affiliation Brings 5,000 Fire Fighters and EMS Professionals to NAGE
March 15—Members of the New Jersey State Firemen's Mutual Benevolent Association (FMBA) voted yesterday to authorize their president to enter into an affiliation agreement with NAGE. The "yes" vote passed by a margin of 98 percent, bringing to NAGE an active membership of 5,000 fire fighters and EMS professionals from 106 locals.The New Jersey state FMBA had been courted by AFL-CIO President John Sweeney, but turned to SEIU/NAGE as "the better fit" because of its strong emphasis on organizing and growth.
"This is an historic affiliation for both NAGE and Change To Win," said National President David J. Holway. "The mission of Change To Win—to continue to organize new workers for workplace rights and protections—is resonating with workers and unions throughout the country. The FMBA wants to grow in size and legislative strength, and we're ready to help get them there." "The FMBA came to us because they know we have a powerful voice in Washington, D.C., and they know we belong to Change To Win, which is putting unions back into the workplace," said Matthew Levy, the NAGE/IAEP director who led the affiliation talks. "It's a mutually beneficial partnership that will help both of our organizations grow. " |
