Each February we recognize Black History Month as a time to honor Black culture, community, and contributions throughout American history. Our nation, AFGE, and the labor movement have been led by the important work, passion, intelligence, and advocacy of Black leaders and activists. Black history is American history – and AFGE history. Our union is using this month to honor that contribution and continue to stand in solidarity with our Black union family.
AFGE’s Women and Fair Practices Department and AFGE B.L.A.C.K. held several virtual programs this month.
We’re also encouraging AFGE members to join the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU), the voice of Black workers within the trade union movement, as a way to support our Black union member siblings.
This year we are honored to highlight an AFGE activist who is not only a leader at her local but also in her community.
Charron is president of AFGE Local 727 representing D.C. government employees at the Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency. In 2014, she started a petition for her and her colleagues to join the bargaining unit and become AFGE members. She became chief shop steward in 2017 and has been the local president since 2022. The local now represents a bargaining unit of 500 employees.
Charron is also vice president of the Metropolitan D.C. Area Chapter of Coalition of Labor Union Women (CLUW).
Can you share with us your experience organizing your coworkers to join AFGE?
I expressed personal interest in wanting to join the union to find that my position was eligible but not part of the bargaining unit. I sought out others in my position to start the petition to get us certified. I shortly after became a member of the bargaining team in effort to help build a contract that would be inclusive of the entire bargaining unit.
Was it difficult to get people to sign?
No, they were sold on the benefits alone.
Did you face any resistance from management?
Not at all.
Why is Black History Month important to you?
As a child, I embraced the teachings of Black history. I believe Black History Month further focuses on the history of African Americans and is educational for everyone. It is also a time to remember many great people and their stories surrounded around the sacrifices and dedication put forth for equality.
Which Black labor leader inspired you and why?
I am inspired by Nannie Helen Burroughs who started a labor union for Black domestic workers and worked to end exploitation and improve the working conditions of Black women and girls.
Can you talk a little bit about your involvement with CLUW?
I joined CLUW as a member in 2019. I was encouraged by the local president and secretary- treasurer to join other union groups. In 2022, I was elected vice president and am currently serving my second term.
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