SEIU 721 Members Get Fired Up at National Conference
By Jerry ClydeChildren Social Worker, Los Angeles County
Fired up and ready to go!
That's how I feel after participating in the "We Are One" conference held by the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists on December 1-4. Enthusiastic speakers including Ben Jealous (NAACP) and Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. kicked off the conference by reminding us of the important work we have ahead of us in 2012. From that first panel discussion I was inspired by how much can be achieved when you unite people with the same cause, the right message, and leadership.
Over the weekend we talked about issues we will move forward in 2012 including electing a president that will have our best interest in mind, fighting for good jobs with fair wages, defending voting rights, promoting and preparing for health care reform, improving public education, fighting unjust foreclosures, and reforming immigration policies. There is so much to be done, but I know we have the tools and the members to get it accomplished!
I was proud to share my experiences working as a member leader with 721
with others from across the country. I shared the great work we are
doing for the Fight for a Fair Economy to rebuild the middle class. Many
people were impressed that SEIU 721 has members and staff dedicated
enough to participate in civil disobedience and be arrested. I let them
know that we were just getting started and that next year we'll have
even more actions to show how serious we are.
During the conference we marched in solidarity with Occupy Phoenix . It was humbling to march with Rev. Jesse Jackson, who led a group in the late 60's that occupied Washington, D.C. demanding affordable housing and good jobs. It is exciting to know that the work I am doing now to support and participating in the Occupy movement, demanding good jobs in Los Angeles, and making banks pay for how they destroyed the economy is keeping the movement alive today.
This conference was only the beginning for me. "We Are One" has helped further my passion for organizing and mobilizing my fellow workers and my community. Are you fired up for 2012?
During the conference we marched in solidarity with Occupy Phoenix . It was humbling to march with Rev. Jesse Jackson, who led a group in the late 60's that occupied Washington, D.C. demanding affordable housing and good jobs. It is exciting to know that the work I am doing now to support and participating in the Occupy movement, demanding good jobs in Los Angeles, and making banks pay for how they destroyed the economy is keeping the movement alive today.
This conference was only the beginning for me. "We Are One" has helped further my passion for organizing and mobilizing my fellow workers and my community. Are you fired up for 2012?
Leave a comment