Wisconsin workers represented by the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) are donating $50,000 to the earthquake relief fund established by the Japanese trade federation RENGO.

While Wisconsin's AFSCME families are fighting to win back their long-held collective bargaining rights from a government that stripped them away, they stand in solidarity with the millions affected by the tragic events in Japan.
 
"Because so many of our members serve on the front lines during disasters and emergencies, seeing the plight of our Japanese sisters and brothers has touched us all deeply," said Rick Badger, executive director of AFSCME Council 40.
 
"Emergency workers in Japan are bravely and tirelessly putting their own lives on the line to protect and serve others as this catastrophe continues.  We understand the vital role these workers play and we want to do whatever we can to show our support in this desperate time," Council 48 Executive Director Rich Abelson said.
 
"Even as our members are facing great stress from being singled out as scapegoats for our state's budgetary problems, their true nature shows though.  Our members have big hearts.  They are committed to serving others, so it is only natural that even now their thoughts and compassion are flowing to the people of Japan," said Marty Beil, executive director of the Wisconsin State Employees Union, AFSCME Council 24.
 
Wisconsin's AFSCME members are sending a check for $50,000 to the earthquake relief fund established by the Japanese Trade Union Confederation RENGO on behalf of all 1.6 million AFSCME sisters and brothers nationwide.  
 
AFSCMECouncil 40 represents more than 33,000 public service and health care workers in 71 Wisconsin Counties.  Council 24 represents more than 22,000 state employees.  Council 48 represents nearly 10,000 public service employees in Milwaukee County.