Black History Month Profiles: Tony Burkhalter

This year, for Black History Month, we’re taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently active making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today’s profile is Tony Burkhalter of AFSCME.

Tony Burkhalter has been president of Nebraska Public Employees since September 2018. Prior to this, he served as vice president of the local. Burkhalter has been dedicated to the union since the start of his career with the city of Omaha. He has been instrumental in pushing the city for higher safety standards for workers. He is not afraid to stand up to management and hold them accountable for their actions. He has successfully negotiated many different contracts. Through Burkhalter’s leadership, Local 251 has been steadily growing and the future has never looked better.