Every day millions of Americans turn on the radio, iPod or some other device that allows them to listen to their favorite musicians and have no idea that there is a union that monitors to guarantee the rights of those same musicians. The average American may think that his or her favorite musicians are pulling “dough” and not realize that for the past one hundred and fourteen years the American Federation of Musicians, aka AFM, has worked to improve the professional lives of musicians across North America. (American Federation of Musicians, 2010) The AFM attracts its members with a mission to unite professional musicians that states: “We can live and work with dignity; Our work will be fulfilling and fairly rewarded; We will have a meaningful say in decisions that affect us; We will have the opportunity to develop our talents and skills; Our collective voice and power will be realized in a democratic and progressive union; and we can oppose the forces of exploitation through our trade union solidarity." In working to fulfill their mission, the AFM has developed a rich history, a diverse demographic that appeals to a variety of music professionals, and strives to solve current issues their members may be facing. Founded in 1896 by the American Federation of Labor, the AFM union has set precedent after precedent ensuring the fair treatment of musicians across North America. Between 1903 and 1907, the union took at least one major step per year in its fight for fair compensation. In 1903, the union helped level the “competition” playing field by discouraging organizers of the St. Louis World's Fair from hiring bands who were not from the United States. In 1904, the union helped musicians in shows and attractions such as orchestras overcome… middle of paper… current restrictions on the number of low-power FM stations, allowing the creation of hundreds, if not thousands, of new local radios. This bill will benefit AFM musicians, because it is generally the small, local radio stations that promote new and local talent. There are many supporters of this proposal and it will promote local artists by increasing engagement with AFM and creating visibility for new artists. Works Cited (2010). Retrieved February 20, 2010, from the American Federation of Musicians: http://www.afm.orgAFM - IEB. (n.d.). International Executive Committee. http://www.afm.org/about/international-executive-board.American Federation of Musicians - Information. (n.d.). From . http://www.afm.org/about.American Federation of Musicians - Why join. (n.d.). Why sign up. www.afm.org/Why Join.Austin Musicians. (n.d.). Local 433. http://www.austinmusician.org/.