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FREDERIKA McCLARY

Frederika McClary is a fighter! Born in Buffalo, NY as the youngest of five to a stay at home mother, who was known as the neighborhood mom, and an engaged providing father. She was raised in a home with two older brothers and a rotation of cousins and friends who needed a safe place and great meal.

From an early age it was clear that whatever she did speaking up and out would be a part of it. She often got in trouble for telling it like it was and not backing down. So, it was no surprise that while attending magnet schools she opted to participate in debate and leadership teams and to sit on faculty hiring and youth summit committees.
She majored in communications, specifically public relations, with dreams of going into event planning. And in her spare time hosted book review and panel discussion segments on an urban late nite talk show. But the universe had other things in mind. Due to the persistence of a mentor, Frederika interviewed for the AFL-CIO’s Organizing Institute and made the cut.

Her first assignment was as a union organizer with the United Teachers of New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina. Since that time, she has worked in many cities, with many and on various campaigns all centered around workers fighting for a voice, dignity and respect in their place of work.

Currently Frederika McClary is the Director of Organizing for Nurses and Health Professionals at the American Federation of Teachers.
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