Retirees - Jeff

JEFF BIRTTNEN

Minnesota

While the reasons AFSCME Retirees stay active in their union long after their working days vary, there’s one theme that connects them all, according to Jeff Birttnen, AFSCME Retiree Council chair. “We all recognize that someone, somewhere fought for the benefits and freedoms that we enjoy. We believe in paying it forward,” says Birttnen.

paying it forward."

Jeff Birttnen (center)

That sentiment is part of the reason retirees stay fired up. It’s why Retirees have signed up in big numbers since 2018 – more than 19,000 new members. It’s why Retirees played such an important role in the 2018 midterm elections, which swept in a new wave of worker-friendly candidates. And it’s why they’re sure to be a huge factor in electing a pro-worker president in 2020.

“Union life doesn’t end at retirement,” says Birttnen. “When we’re active in the local, we’re fighting in solidarity for the same things as a group: working together for good contracts, better working conditions and good jobs. That shouldn’t stop when you retire.” No matter what issue they’re fighting for, retirees are applying the lessons learned from hard-fought battles in the past to create a better future for working families.

Jeff’s story is part of a longer series about how AFSCME Retirees fought for the rights and freedoms we enjoy today. They share their lessons for younger generations.

SEE ALL THE STORIES »

RUTH'S STORY

MARY'S STORY

"We all recognize that someone, somewhere fought for the benefits and freedoms that we enjoy. We believe in

SEE ALL THE STORIES »

Jeff’s story is part of a longer series about how AFSCME Retirees fought for the rights and freedoms we enjoy today. They share their lessons for younger generations.

Visit www.afscme.org/retirees »

I’m retired and want to stay in the fight. I’m ready to learn more about joining AFSCME Retirees.

I’m still working and want to learn how I can protect the freedoms that AFSCME Retirees fought for.

Join AFSCME Retirees