National Native American Heritage Month Profiles: Rob Manning

Throughout National Native American Heritage Month, the AFL-CIO will be profiling leaders and activists to spotlight the diverse contributions Native Americans have made to the labor movement and toward expanding the rights of working people. Today’s profile features Rob Manning of the National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE-IAM).

As president of his local, Rob Manning stands up for his fellow workers’ rights. Just this month, he stepped in to ensure that the agencies granted employees time to vote in the presidential election. His ongoing project is to obtain proper COVID-19 hazard pay compensation for Indian Health Service employees. The pandemic claimed the lives of Manning’s mentor, Verle Follette, and numerous other workers. In his community, Manning volunteers his time with Spotted Bull Recovery Resource Center, helping those with addictions recover. He also serves as the president and chaplain of the Prairie Riders Motorcycle Club.