Alexandria, Virginia professional employees unionize with AFSCME

ALEXANDRIA – Professional employees who work for the City of Alexandria, Virginia, voted overwhelmingly to unionize with AFSCME District Council 20. The historic vote – coming in at 155 votes in favor, to just one not in favor – ensures these essential workers have a collective voice on critical workplace issues such as wages, benefits, and working conditions. 

With this resounding victory, all eligible Alexandria employees are now unionized, marking a significant milestone for public employees in the region. 

"Winning this is not just a victory for one person, it's a victory for every worker who believes in fairness and respect,” said Tia Littlejohn-Adams, an accountant for the city. “Together, we didn't just campaign, we built unity among members and colleagues." 

This victory means that five out of five eligible bargaining units in Alexandria have filed and won their union representation elections since 2021, three of which are AFSCME-represented units.  

They include workers in labor and trade, administrative and technical roles, and now, professionals. These new members look forward to building on the successes their fellow AFSCME members in the city have achieved since organizing. 

Jared Alves, an urban planner for the city, said his colleagues are ready to utilize the collective voice of their union.  

“This resounding vote for our union signals that Alexandria professionals know that we are stronger together. Now let's turn this victory into action!” 

Alexandria labor and trade employees reached a historic first contract with the city in 2023 that guaranteed raises and established a step-and-grade pay schedule, among other victories. The administrative and technical employees won real, tangible gains in contract negotiations for them and their families. They ratified their contract in 2025 with 100% of employees voting in favor.   

Steve Frutos, a senior therapist in the Department of Community & Human Services, underscores the victory as an opportunity to not just build a better workplace but a stronger city altogether. 

“It's long overdue to have a real voice in how we do our vital work for the residents of Alexandria,” Frutos said. “Our ultimate goal is to create a more effective workplace in order to do our best for them. The more we can achieve as a union, the more our city stands to gain.” 

With this vote, Alexandria’s professional workers will now prepare to negotiate their first union contract, focusing on fair wages, improved benefits and a more transparent workplace.