Large U.S. Service Workers Union Rejoins AFL-CIO After 20 Years

The Service Employees International Union (SEIU), one of the largest labor groups in the United States, is rejoining the AFL-CIO after nearly two decades apart, Emily Peck reported for Axios.

The AFL-CIO, a federation of unions spanning diverse industries, offers policy and political support to its affiliates, enabling them to focus on organizing and bargaining. I Photo: Mattpopovich Wikimedia Commons

"We think we will be more powerful than ever as joint forces," AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler said.

SEIU President April Verrett explained that the reunion had been in the works for almost two years, aiming to bolster labor organizing efforts and push for pro-labor policies. The SEIU represents 2 million members across its public sector, healthcare, and building services branches, while the AFL-CIO boasts 12.5 million members.

"This isn’t a reaction to Trump, but his return to the White House affirms that we’re on the right path," Verrett said.

Many SEIU members are immigrants, including undocumented workers who may face heightened risks under Trump’s proposed deportation policies. Verrett also highlighted concerns over potential cuts to Medicaid, upon which about half of SEIU members rely.

The AFL-CIO, a federation of unions spanning diverse industries, offers policy and political support to its affiliates, enabling them to focus on organizing and bargaining.