This course is offered by the Cornell
University School of Industrial and Labor Relations in conjunction with the union
AFSCME DC 37 (the New York City local of the American Federation of State, County,
and Municipal Employees). It is part of a 12-credit series of courses that serves
as a women’s leadership program for the union and that includes courses on
critical thinking and writing and the workings of a union. All the students are
DC 37 members, working full-time in a wide range of jobs from civilian police
support to parks department maintenance. The courses are offered free to union
members who qualify. Many of the students are very active in their union, which,
combined with full-time jobs and family obligations, makes for tight schedules.
Some students have previous college experience, some have not completed high school,
others have limited English language skills. Students’ writing abilities
are evaluated early in the semester, so they can receive assistance if necessary
to complete the course. The point is to help each of them achieve a broad understanding
of the role of women workers and the successes and failures of workers organizing
in U.S. history. The union and Cornell view the course as a way to help working
women achieve and perhaps continue college level study within a supportive environment
that recognizes their work life and union activism.