We know that after years of slowly losing density and decreasing membership, many musicians feel unheard. That undermines the respect we all hold for each other within our union and as workers in the music industry. The VPU caucus believes our pathway to building deep, institutional respect is by increasing communication at every level in our union. We also know that with low levels of density, there are many voices still missing and VPU deeply feels the loss of any siblings not yet at the table. That’s why we plan to increase communication among current members—especially those not represented in our Local and Federation leadership—and tirelessly start new conversations in unorganized parts of the industry: festivals, clubs, indie recording, touring musicians, part-time musicians, and all musicians wanting to raise their working conditions.

A union built on respect:
– Inspires members to get involved and non-members to join
– Seeks out participation from underrepresented communities of musicians
– Identifies and develops future leaders from diverse backgrounds
– Empowers musicians to control their own working lives and run their union

Action Plan: Form a President’s Advisory Committee to ensure the smooth and strategic leadership transition of the AFM