Denver City Employees Organizing After Layoffs

Denver city workers are turning frustration into action following the city’s a sweeping layoffs. Now, as the fallout from these layoffs continues, workers are coming together to help those affected and make sure it cannot happen again.

Work started at an online webinar hosted by AFSCME Colorado alongside allies in the city council and union representatives. The webinar drew hundred of city employees facing uncertainty about their future employment. Union leaders and legal experts walked participants through the city’s layoff process, worker rights under civil service rules, and resources available to them as they face economic uncertainty.

If you missed the webinar and are curious about the resources provided, you can find a video recording and useful links here:https://afscmecolorado.org/resources/resources-denver-city-employees-affected-layoffs

Now, workers are focused on organizing ahead of collective bargaining rights going into effect in 2026. With a voice at the table, they are looking to hold the city accountable, rebuild trust among city workers, and improve the city services that are already suffering after layoffs were implemented.

Stephen Karlowski, a JOB TITLE a the city of Denver said worker morale is suffering right now.

He continued by saying that the experience has only underscored how important it is to have a voice with the city.

Workers is calling on all city employees to stay engaged in the weeks ahead as workers at build momentum and ensure Denver workers have a voice in shaping the future of the city’s workforce.