Bal Harbour, Fla.
Vice President Bobby L. Harnage, Sr. has devoted his career to advancing the interest of the members of his union, the American Federation of Government Employees. A spirited advocate for equitable treatment of public employees, Harnage has actively and energetically represented federal workers as well as employees of the District of Columbia government. He spearheaded successful efforts to modernize the union’s information technology and financial management systems to better serve AFGE members.
As a defender of the rights of civil service employees, Harnage has worked diligently on their behalf when they faced federal reorganization proposals and efforts to downsize and privatize federal jobs. He has been relentless in advocating government accountability and enforcement of whistleblower protections.
After rising through the leadership ranks from district national representative to district national vice president, Harnage served seven years as national secretary-treasurer. He became national president of AFGE in 1997. Harnage was elected an AFL-CIO Vice President in January 1998 and contributed to the Executive Council as a member of the committees on Article XX appeals, legislation, organizing and public affairs. He also has served on the board of Union Privilege.
On behalf of the men and women of the unions of the AFL-CIO, the Executive Council expresses its gratitude and appreciation to Bobby L. Harnage, Sr. for his service and devotion to the members of his union and to the labor movement.