Political Action Fund (PAF)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
About the CWA Political Action Fund (PAF)
General Information
1. What is the CWA Political Action Fund (PAF)?
The CWA Political Action Fund (PAF) is a voluntary, non-partisan political action committee that fights for workers' political power. It is funded by contributions from CWA members, retirees, and their families.
2. What does the PAF do?
The PAF supports pro-worker candidates, funds grassroots lobbying efforts, helps pass pro-worker legislation, and opposes laws and policies that harm workers and unions.
3. How is the PAF funded?
The PAF is funded solely by voluntary contributions from CWA members, their families, and retirees. No union dues money is used for political contributions to federal candidates.
Contributions
4. Who can contribute to the PAF?
All working and retired CWA members, their families, and CWA employees and their families can contribute to the PAF.
5. How can I contribute to the PAF?
You can contribute via payroll deduction, a one-time credit card donation, or set up monthly credit card contributions.
6. Can I stop my contribution?
Yes, monthly contributors can stop their contributions at any time.
How the Money Is Used
7. What is PAF money used for?
PAF funds are used for:
- Supporting pro-worker candidates at the local, state, and federal levels.
- Funding lobbying efforts to pass legislation like the PRO Act and United States Call Center Worker and Consumer Protection Act.
- Organizing voter registration and Get Out the Vote (GOTV) operations.
8. Does any PAF money go to union dues or the general treasury?
No. PAF contributions are separate from union dues and are used exclusively for political and legislative activities.
9. How does the PAF make a difference?
The PAF amplifies workers' voices in politics, leading to victories like the election of pro-union candidates, the passage of worker-friendly laws, and blocking harmful policies like the Trans-Pacific Partnership.
Impact
10. What has the PAF achieved?
The PAF has played a key role in:
- Electing pro-union legislators.
- Passing laws to prevent outsourcing call center jobs.
- Securing COVID relief through the American Rescue Plan.
- Supporting strikes and bargaining efforts, such as the 49-day Verizon strike.
11. How does the PAF protect union jobs?
The PAF fights against outsourcing, deregulation, and anti-worker policies, while pushing for fair trade agreements and pro-labor laws.
Why It Matters
12. Why should I contribute to the PAF?
By contributing to the PAF, you help strengthen workers' rights, secure job protections, and ensure that pro-worker policies and candidates succeed. It’s an investment in your job, family, and future.
13. Why is CWA involved in politics?
Politics impacts wages, benefits, job security, and union rights. By engaging in politics, CWA protects and strengthens workers' rights.
14. Does the PAF support only Democrats?
No. The PAF supports candidates from any party who are pro-worker and align with CWA’s goals.
15. What if I don’t trust politicians?
While not all politicians are trustworthy, the PAF ensures that worker-friendly candidates are elected and held accountable. Winning at the polls strengthens workers' bargaining power.
How to Get Involved
16. How can I help beyond contributing?
You can participate in voter registration drives, grassroots lobbying, and GOTV efforts. Joining coalitions with other labor organizations and community groups also amplifies our voice.
17. What is the best way to contribute?
The best way is to set up recurring contributions through payroll deduction or a monthly credit card donation. Even small amounts make a big difference when combined with others' contributions.
18. How does the PAF ensure my voice is heard?
The PAF informs members about candidates and their positions, mobilizes voters, and ensures that elected officials listen to workers’ concerns.