Every day, millions of Americans turn on their radio, iPod, or other device that lets them listen to their favorite musicians and have no idea that a union exists who stands guard to guarantee the rights of these same musicians. The average American may think that their favorite musicians are rolling "dough" and not realize that for the past one hundred and fourteen years, the American Federation of Musicians, aka AFM, has worked to improve lives professional musicians across North America. (American Federation of Musicians, 2010) The AFM attracts its membership with a mission to unite professional musicians which states: “We can live and work with dignity; Our work will be rewarding and fairly paid; We will have a meaningful voice in decisions that concern 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 union solidarity. In striving to fulfill its mission, the AFM has developed a rich history, a diverse population that targets a variety of music professionals and strives to address current issues its members may face. Founded in 1896 by the American Federation of Labor, the AFM union has set precedent after precedent that ensures the fair treatment of musicians across North America. Between 1903 and 1907, the union accomplished at least one major milestone per year in its fight for fair pay. In 1903, the union helped level the playing field when it came to "competition" by discouraging organizers of the St. Louis World's Fair from hiring groups that were not from the United States. In 1904, the union helped musicians in shows and attractions such as orchestras travel...... middle of paper ...... current restrictions on the number of low-power FM stations, allowing the creation of hundreds, even thousands, of new local radio stations. This bill will benefit AFM musicians, as it is generally small local radio stations that promote new local talent. Many supporters of this proposal will favor local artists by increasing their involvement in the 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. (nd). International Executive Council. http://www.afm.org/about/international-executive-board.American Federation of Musicians - About. (nd). About . http://www.afm.org/about.American Federation of Musicians - Why Join. (nd). Why join. www.afm.org/Why Join.Austin Musicians. (nd). Local 433. http://www.austinmusician.org/.