AFSCME Convention 2026 | August 2026

That’s a wrap on AFSCME International’s 47th convention! 

The week was filled with dancing, chanting, and spirited debate. Thousands of AFSCME members from across the country descended onto Chicago for AFSCME’s International Convention beginning on August 17 and ending on August 21.

President Lee Saunders started the week with an inspiring keynote speech on Monday about the future of AFSCME and the labor movement as he is now retired as the president of AFSCME. It was a bitter-sweet moment for members. Saunders has been a fearless leader and has re-energized AFSCME as an organizing-driven union. Elissa McBride also retired as Secretary-Treasurer. Both Saunders and McBride were honored with resolutions highlighting their years of service and dedication to AFSCME. 

At a rally on Wednesday, we stood in solidarity with workers at SHEDD Aquarium as they continue to fight for a fair contract. We also took care of union business all week long. We reviewed, discussed, and voted on dozens of amendments, resolutions, and appeals. Members AFSCME District Council 36 authored five resolutions about regulating cryptocurrency to protect pensions, continuing to organize culture workers, removing ICE and DHS agents from our communities, stopping the de-professionalization of social workers and nurses, and re-classifying 911 dispatchers as first responders. Each of our resolutions were passed by the convention delegation.

Additionally, we heard inspiring speeches from Elissa McBride, AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler, Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison, and CUPE President Mark Hancock. President Saunders also hosted a panel discussion with AFT President Randi Weingarten and SEIU President April Verrett.

We ended the week by installing AFSCME’s newly elected President Patrick Moran and Secretary-Treasurer Nicole Pollard. Congratulations to both Moran and Pollard! AFSCME District Council 36 looks forward to continuing the good fight alongside you both.