Andy Stern was born on November 22, 1950, in West Orange, New Jersey. He grew up in a middle-class family and from a young age, he had a strong sense of social justice and a desire to make a difference in the world.
After graduating from high school, Stern attended the University of Pennsylvania, where he studied political science. It was during his time at university that he became involved in social activism and began to develop his passion for labor rights and worker empowerment.
After graduating from college, Stern worked as a welfare case officer, where he gained firsthand experience of the struggles faced by low-income families in America. This experience solidified his commitment to fighting for social and economic justice.
In the early 1980s, Stern began his career in the labor movement, working for the Service Employees International Union (SEIU). He quickly rose through the ranks of the union, thanks to his leadership skills and dedication to improving the lives of union members.
In 1996, Stern was elected president of the SEIU, one of the largest unions in the United States, with close to two million members. Under his leadership, the SEIU experienced significant growth and increased its influence in the labor movement and in national politics.
Stern was known for his innovative approach to labor organizing, which focused on building alliances with other progressive organizations and mobilizing workers to demand better wages and working conditions. He was also a vocal advocate for healthcare reform and other social justice issues.
Aside from his work in the labor movement, Stern's personal life also attracted attention. He dated blogger and political activist Jane Hamsher, with whom he shared a passion for progressive causes and social change.
In addition to his work with the SEIU, Stern was also a prolific author, writing several books on labor rights, economic inequality, and social justice. One of his most well-known works is "A Country That Works," in which he lays out his vision for a fairer and more just society.
Andy Stern's tenure as president of the SEIU is widely regarded as a turning point in the labor movement. His focus on organizing low-wage workers and building strategic alliances with other social justice organizations helped to revitalize the labor movement and bring attention to the struggles faced by working people in America.
Although Stern retired from his position at the SEIU in 2010, his impact on the labor movement and on progressive politics continues to be felt today. He remains a vocal advocate for workers' rights and a leading voice in the fight against economic inequality.
Andy Stern's career is a testament to the power of activism and the importance of standing up for what is right. His work has inspired countless people to join the fight for social and economic justice, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of activists and organizers.