Adams County Local Steps into Leadership as They Prepare for Large Layoffs

Leaders of Local 3927, a local based in Adams County, Colorado, knew what they had to do when they heard about pending layoffs. These leaders, workers dedicated to providing care and resources as part of the county’s Department of Human Services, were shocked to hear that the layoffs and budget cuts sweeping the country’s public services had finally hit them.    

Still, the leaders of their local immediately stepped into action. Local 3927’s E-Board immediately began planning info sessions, where they could bring resources, AFSCME staff, and information about the layoffs to their members onsite. These meetings were extremely well attended, with many staff members getting engaged in union activity for the first time. They knew that the Local needed to bring people together. The power of so many staff would ensure that managers handled the layoffs with as much dignity and respect as possible.    

The E-Board and the general members worked together to be extremely visible, accessible, and knowledgeable about the layoff process. We were able to use information from management to answer a variety of questions during our site visits. One worker shared that seeing her union greatly encouraged her. “Seeing our Union leaders at the café reminds me that we're not alone. Their presence makes me feel safer, heard, and supported as an Adams County Employee." Our leaders worked tirelessly over the past few weeks to ensure that when layoffs were announced officially, our folks knew what their next steps could be.   

There is still work to do. Now that layoffs have been officially announced, we are working even harder to ensure that the language we’ve fought for in our contract is respected and upheld. This is still the time to come together. If you’re a member of Local 3927 or any Colorado local facing layoffs, we hope you’ll find our union. This is how we build power. This is how we continue to ensure that as these layoffs progress, or as new layoffs are announced, we still have the fairest process possible. For the leaders within 3927, the message remains clear! Our leaders want their co-workers to know that they are not alone. As leaders, our focus remains on advocating for every member throughout this process. As one worker shared, “As challenges keep coming, our union hasn’t stepped back. They’re still showing up not just in presence but doing the hard work. It's nice to know they are standing beside us and doing the best they can to support us.”    

Local President, Angel Ruiz, had this to share when asked about this process, “I want to be honest—this has been one of the most challenging times I've faced as your Union president. Watching our coworkers face uncertainty, fear, and heartbreak has been incredibly difficult. I’m so grateful to every Executive Board member who put their heart into supporting our colleagues. Together, we are not alone!” If you are a member at Adams County navigating layoffs and need support, please email us.