What We Do

We are the voice behind the people who power the labor movement. Our union proudly represents Staff Representatives, Organizers, Researchers, and Technicians employed by the United Steelworkers (USW).

Our mission is simple yet powerful: to secure strong Collective Bargaining Agreements and ensure every member is treated with fairness, dignity, and respect.

From coast to coast across the United States and Canada, our members work tirelessly to support USW members and organize unrepresented workers—building strength, solidarity, and a better future for all.

Together, we make workplaces fairer. Together, we make the movement stronger.

Who We Are

The Staff Representatives Union (SRU) has a proud legacy of advocacy and solidarity within the United Steelworkers (USW). Our story began with determination and a vision for fairness.

In 1955, the first attempt to create a collective bargaining agency for USW field staff didn’t succeed—but the idea never faded. On November 21, 1964, at the Kaufmann Hotel in Zelienople, Pennsylvania, the Staffman’s Organizing Committee launched an intensive campaign to organize field staff across the United States and Canada.

Just 25 days later, a 17-member representation committee met with USW International Officers to claim majority support. A card check campaign, overseen by retired Bishop Dean Moor, confirmed our strength. By January 7, 1965, the USW International Executive Board officially recognized SRU as the exclusive bargaining agent for field staff in the U.S. and Canada.

In September 1966, we held our first official meeting in Atlantic City, NJ, adopting our Constitution and Bylaws and electing our first permanent Officers and Executive Board.

Since then, SRU has fought tirelessly to improve wages, benefits, and working conditions for our members, ensure justice and dignity on the job, and build a broader social movement to better the lives of all working people.

Our legacy is one of persistence, progress, and solidarity—and we continue that fight every day.

Our Structure

Our union is built on strong, democratic leadership that reflects the voices of our members across North America. At the core are three Table Officers—the President, Vice President, and Secretary-Treasurer—who guide our vision and ensure accountability.

Supporting them is our Executive Board, made up of two representatives from each USW District, bringing regional perspectives to every decision.

To keep our connection to the grassroots strong, District Committees include two members from each USW District and the Canadian National Office. In addition, we proudly include one representative from the Grant Staff Employees Unit, ensuring every part of our union family is heard.

Leadership terms run between membership meetings, held in conjunction with the USW International Convention, reinforcing our commitment to transparency and member-driven governance.

Together, this structure ensures that every voice matters and every District is represented.