During its June 2004 quarterly meeting, by unanimous vote, the International Executive Board of the America Federation of Musicians of the United States and Canada (AFM) endorsed John Kerry for President of the United States of America.

The Board endorsed Kerry for his stance on labor issues and economic issues affecting musicians. AFM President, Thomas Lee, stated, “Kerry’s stand on economic issues is consistent with that of the AFM. Whether the issue is offshore outsourcing, special tax giveaways to the wealthy or unrestrained corporate power and influence, Kerry promises to fight for fairness and economic prosperity for America’s workers.”

A key issue for the Board was the issue of health care. President Lee noted that “John Kerry believes in securing a bright future for working families who are currently struggling under failed health care policies. Kerry’s promise to give every American the same access to the health care plan of the President and Members of Congress is one of the many reasons that working families across the country are supporting his candidacy.”

Other issues leading to the Board’s endorsement included Kerry’s focus on the arts, copyright piracy, middle class tax relief, job creation, fair trade, prescription drug coverage, and social security protection.

The American Federation of Musicians of the United States and Canada is the largest organization in the world dedicated to representing the interests of professional musicians. Whether it is negotiating fair agreements, protecting ownership of recorded music, securing benefits such as health care and pension, or lobbying our legislators, the AFM is committed to raising industry standards and placing the professional musician in the foreground of the cultural landscape.