McCormick Place hosts AFSCME convention

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Members of the American Federation of State County and Municipal Employees from across the country are gathered in Chicago this week, for their 41st international convention.

Some 7,000 people are expected for the five-day event at McCormick Place.

AFSCME has more than one-point-six million members in the United States.

Secretary Treasurer Laura Reyes gave the keynote address Tuesday.

She's the first woman elected to the union's second highest office.

"We all deserve better and that our families should not have to sacrifice anymore. Brothers and sisters we all must reach out and open that door for others," Reyes said.

The convention wraps up Friday.