The American Federation of Musicians of the United States and Canada (AFM) wrapped up its 103rd International Convention today. Under the theme “Two Countries, One Union,” the 103rd Convention took place in Ottawa, Canada, from June 20–23. Delegates from across the US and Canada gathered to strengthen cross-border solidarity, vote on the union’s future, and elect leadership for the next three years.

Election results are as follows:

• International President: Tino Gagliardi, Local 802 (New York City) by acclamation
• Vice President: Dr. Karen Suarez Flint, Local 10-208 (Chicago, IL)
• Vice President from Canada: Allistair Elliott, Local 547 (Calgary, AB) by acclamation
• International Secretary-Treasurer: Ken Shirk, Local 99 (Portland, OR) by acclamation

International Executive Committee:

• Marta Bradley, Local 40-543 (Baltimore, MD)
• Kale Cumings, Local 6 (San Francisco, CA)
• Leonard DiCosimo, Local 4 (Cleveland, OH)
• Edmund Velasco, Local 7 (Orange Co./Long Beach, CA)
• Dusty Kelly, Local 149 (Toronto, ON)

AFM Convention delegates solidified the union’s leadership structure, returning several key executive officers to their roles by acclamation and welcoming new voices to the International Executive Board. Issues presented to the delegates during the four-day convention included the threat of artificial intelligence; assistance to small locals; investment in organizing and education; and growing the union.

In his closing address, International President Tino Gagliardi praised delegates for passing measures to strengthen the union’s infrastructure and renew its commitment to organizing freelance and independent musicians.

“One thing is clear to me: we can only tackle all these different fights if we remain united,” Gagliardi noted. “What we did here was an important start, but solidarity isn’t something you practice at a convention and then go home. Organizing needs to happen year-round and at the local level.”

He added, “I look forward to welcoming our new board members and working together with them to prioritize our organizing work. To confront the many industry challenges— particularly the battle between Artificial Intelligence and human artistry—the AFM will continue strengthening our member education, freelance musician engagement, and organizing initiatives.”

Gagliardi challenged every local leader to enlist at least one member to assist with these upcoming organizing efforts. “Our most valuable asset isn’t our dues; it’s our solidarity. When we work together, there’s nothing we cannot do.”