Change To Win Federation
Change to Win Federation
The Change to Win Federation (CtWF), now known as the Strategic Organizing Center (SOC), is a national trade union center in North America. It was formed in 2005 as an alternative to the AFL-CIO with the primary aim of focusing on organizing efforts and increasing union membership. The federation initially comprised several major labor unions that sought a renewed emphasis on organizing over political campaigning.
Formation and Purpose
The inception of the Change to Win Federation was driven by a coalition of unions that were dissatisfied with the AFL-CIO's strategies and priorities. Among the founding members were the Service Employees International Union, International Brotherhood of Teamsters, United Farm Workers, and the United Brotherhood of Carpenters. These unions were committed to a strategy that prioritized expanding union membership through concerted organizing efforts.
The federation's goals were centered around increasing the voice and influence of labor in national politics and supporting member unions in their efforts to recruit new members. This approach marked a shift from the AFL-CIO's more politically-oriented strategies.
Key Figures
Several prominent labor leaders were instrumental in the formation and operation of the Change to Win Federation. Douglas J. McCarron, President of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters, played a pivotal role in the establishment of the federation. James P. Hoffa, General President of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, was another significant figure who advocated for the federation's founding principles and was actively involved in its operations.
Developments and Challenges
The Change to Win Federation faced various challenges in maintaining its position as an alternative to the AFL-CIO. While initially successful in attracting several major unions, the coalition experienced setbacks, such as the disaffiliation of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters in 2009. The disaffiliation was largely due to disagreements over strategy and the effectiveness of the federation in achieving its goals.
In subsequent years, some member unions expressed dissatisfaction with the advantages gained from being part of a separate federation. There were discussions about reunification with the AFL-CIO, highlighting the complexity of maintaining a fragmented labor movement.
Current Status
Currently, the federation operates under the name Strategic Organizing Center, continuing its efforts to promote labor organizing and improve working conditions. The Change to Win Federation's formation represented a significant moment in U.S. labor history, showcasing the dynamic nature of labor unions and their strategies in responding to evolving challenges.