The Illinois AFL-CIO represents one million union members and is the voice of all working families in the state. Our power lies with the many and diverse people we represent in a multitude of workplaces and in our ability to affect change.

The State Federation helps improve the lives of working men and women by promoting the rights of workers to join a union and by making sure their voices are heard at the state capitol. In addition to a full-time presence in Springfield fighting for strong labor laws, the Illinois AFL-CIO also helps shape political dialog around issues that affect workers. We work with members at election time to register voters and educate them on issues and candidates records.

The State Federation maintains a strong working relationship with the media, issues a monthly newsletter, a weekly fax update during the legislative session and maintains an up-to-date Web site. The Illinois AFL-CIO holds training sessions for affiliated unions on topics such as organizing, public relations, understanding labor law, political involvement, and local union financial reporting.

The Illinois AFL-CIO is very active at the grassroots level. Our Member Assistance Program (MAP) assists laid-off workers and is involved with Illinois' youth through career programs and fairs. The Illinois AFL-CIO is active in organizing drives, and we work with community service liaisons on hundreds of community projects that help achieve dignity and respect for all workers.

In America, No One Should Go Without Health Care I hope you've had a chance to stop by the AFL-CIO's health care website: http://www.aflcio.org/issues/healthcare/. The site features rotating video clips, regularly updated blog and news links and resource information on Medicare, children's health and more.