Union Blog

Care for the community motivates this Bridgeport Police Officer

Every day, police officers put themselves in harm’s way to protect the public. Their sacrifices often go unnoticed and unappreciated despite their heroic efforts to keep us all safe.

Fundraiser in honor of Stratford/Bpt Ofc. Kubel

As we continue to grieve the loss of Officer Kubel, we are honored to support a fundraiser organized by the Shelton Police Department.

Press Coverage (Courant): "Suicide is the leading cause of police fatalities. Advocates say CT limits who can get help"

This story was published by the Hartford Courant on June 21, 2024 and can be found on their website

Man’s Best Friend & A Friend’s Best Man: Montville Police Officer Saves His K-9

We’ve all heard stories and seen movies of the heroic dog protecting their owner at all costs. Dog saves person from a burning building. Dog rescues owner from falling through the ice or down the well. What happens when the roles are reversed and the dog needs rescuing from danger?

Cue to Officer Dan Witts of the Montville Police Department (AFSCME Local 2504). Half of his 5 years with the department have been spent with his K-9 German Shepard, Barrett. He never expected what would happen to him one frightful morning in May.

Rep. Jahana Hayes Joins Council 4 In Calling For State, Local Aid

Heroes Act

With the coronavirus pandemic continuing to devastate the nation’s physical and fiscal health, U.S. Rep Jahana Hayes (CT-5) took time out to urge Council 4 members to make their voices heard in the fierce political battle to approve massive federal aid for states, cities and towns.

Take Advantage of the AFSCME Free College Benefit

Lanette Kinsella of AFSCME Local 318 is a Motor Vehicle Examiner for the Department of Motor Vehicles in Wethersfield. With more than 13 years on the job, and a desire to advance in state service she is not standing pat when it comes to furthering her education.

Kinsella is among many AFSCME members across the country who took advantage of the AFSCME Free College program to earn an Associate’s Degree in Business Management.

No-Cost Death & Disability Benefit for Council 4 Members

If you are an active member or retiree of AFSCME Council 4, you can take advantage of a no-cost $4,000 Accidental Death & Dismemberment benefit.

Honoring AFSCME Public Safety Members During Law Enforcement Week

During Law Enforcement Week, we honor public safety officers who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. We also recognize the unique role that first responders like AFSCME law enforcement members play during times of crisis.

AFSCME To Congress: Prioritize State & Local Aid

Congress has passed – and the president on Friday quickly signed – a $484 billion relief bill for small businesses and hospitals hurting due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and to ramp up coronavirus testing. But the measure fails to provide another critical piece of aid – assistance to state and local governments whose ability to provide basic services will collapse absent federal intervention.

Marie Cetti of Local 1159: Never Quit Service Award Winner

Never Quit: Marie Cetti

Public service comes in different forms, usually on two legs. Sometimes, on four.

Meet Uno, a 95-pound German shepherd and K-9 with the City of Bridgeport, Connecticut. Uno is much more than a dog or a pet to Marie Cetti, a Bridgeport police officer and K-9 handler. He is like her child, work partner and protector in one.

Get Union Smart With Council 4 Education & Training

Council 4 (and our national AFSCME union) offer a wealth of free training and education opportunities, both in-person and online.

In 2020, Council 4 is launching "Saturday Study Hall" trainings at our office in New Britain.  We've scheduled classes on a wide range of subject matter, from grievance handling, social media and CPR/Opioid training to post-retirement planning, union treasurer responsibilities and OSHA certification.  We are also teaming up with the Connecticut AFL-CIO for a special training geared toward union members running for political office.