Abstract AFSCME Local 698, chartered in 1944, initially consisted of laboratory mechanics and agricultural employees of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC), with other groups later joining. During 1970-1971, clerical workers initiated an organizing campaign but ultimately failed to get majority support. In 1983, AFSCME sent one organizer, with more following in subsequent years, to UIUC as part of a wider organizing effort in the state of Illinois. In August 1991, a representation...