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The AFSCME Steward's
Job
The Steward is the AFSCME member's
first resource for information and representation in the
workplace. The AFSCME Shop Steward represents union members
In a defined department, work area or unit, but may also be
asked to assist members In other areas under special
circumstances. The Steward's responsibilities
include:
The Steward observes and supports
the Union's democratic process, inviting all employees
to be members, and inviting all members to participate in
the Union. In this regard, the Steward encourages, rather
than scolds. The Steward freely answers questions regarding
the Union's own processes, and gets staff advice when the
answer is unclear. The Steward makes every effort to inform
' all members of important votes that are to be taken, that
necessary information is presented so that members can make
an informed decision, and informs members that a majority
vote governs.
The Steward represents all members
evenly and fairly, and does not make assumptions on the
basis of an Individual's prior record, attitude, popularity,
or position on controversial Issues In the workplace. The
Steward does not discourage members' reporting problems or
concerns, but does encourage joint effort In solving them.
Where a Steward sees a conflict of interest in representing
a member or an issue, s/he refers the member to another
Steward or staff, and follows up to make sure the contact
has been made.
When presented with individual or
group problems, the Steward investigates each matter to
the best of their ability - in conjunction with the
member, who must also play an active role in making sure all
facts are known - before making recommendations regarding
what actions may be taken. In individual problems,
especially disciplinary ones, the Steward observes
confidentiality unless the member advises
otherwise.
The Steward gives honest and
responsible advice regarding realistic, responsible and
constructive courses of action that are likely to improve
the member's situation (rather than make it worse), after
concluding Investigation and checking the contract and other
relevant documents. Where possible, the Steward discusses
the* relative success potential of the various alternative
actions. When in doubt regarding alternatives that may be
available to the member, consults with Union
staff.
The Steward acts with the consent
of the members. Where an Issue affects more than one
member, the Steward gets members together to arrive
democratically at an acceptable solution for proposal to
management. Except where general guidelines have already
been agreed on with their members (in some areas, that might
be: "we always fight contracting out" or "we always fight
for internal promotion") and except for civil rights. and
individual disciplinary matters, the Steward does not take a
position on a new issue that hasn't been decided by the
group, and does not settle a problem or grievance without
the prior knowledge and/or consent of the
members.
The Steward enforces the
contract and assists with enforcement of other
protections such as Civil Service Rules or policies. Where
language is unclear, the Steward seeks advice from Unio
staff or the local or chapter President before interpreting
rights or requirements.
The Steward keeps faith with the
member in addition to confidentiality, this includes not
settling any matter without the member's prior knowledge or
permission, never disparaging the member with the employer
or co-workers regardless of what is learned during the
representation process. This does not mean the Steward is
obligated to agree with bad conduct.
The Steward supports the Union with
management and does not undermine the Union In the
presence of the employer, reserving any complaints for
private or other appropriate setting.
The Steward keeps members
informed by handing out notices,' keeping up the
bulletin board, and willingly sharing Information with
members that s/he has learned at meetings, conferences and
training.
The Steward is the Union's eyes and
ears, keeping track of rumors, new policies and
practices, unusual hiring or vacant positions, making sure
the Union Is Informed of the situation In their unit or
department.
The Steward helps members work
together toward common solutions rather than leaving
them to make their own, sometimes conflicting deals with
management. The Steward respects, recognizes, and engages
the many different backgrounds and skills of individual
members. S/he works toward group respect and unity among the
members In the workplace.
The Steward gets training when
it is offered by the Union, and tries to update their skills
as needed.
MEMBERS' OBLIGATIONS
include:
The member is obligated to treat
the Steward as they would wish to be treated under the
circumstances.
The member gives honest
feedback when there are questions regarding Steward
actions or failure to act, so the Steward can respond or
Improve, rather than undermining the Steward in' private
with management or fellow members.
The member helps the Steward
with fact-gathering, communication or other tasks that are
essential to a strong, united and effective union In their
workplace.
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