Ventura Workers Partner with Arts Group to Shine Light on Workplace Bullying

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On Aug. 31, SEIU 721 members worked with Arts for Action, a local community group, to create interactive works of art to interpet what worksite bullying looks and feels like.

SEIU 721 members launched the first of a series of worksite meetings to educate members about bullying in the workplace at Oxnard’s Health Services Agency at Vanguard. Members signed up to address the Board of Supervisors and take other actions to shed light on a recent grand jury report that revealed that workplace bullying was a major problem in Ventura County workplaces.
 
“I was happy to see so many Oxnard members participate in this event to create awareness about bullying.” I hope to see the same members at the Board Of Supervisor’s meeting on Sept. 27.”
Carmen Samaniego, a Client Benefit Specialist from Health Services Agency (HSA)

Community Rallies behind Gold Coast Transit Workers

SEIU Local 721 and Gold Coast Transit workers organized a press conference/rally this past Thursday, August 11, 2011. There were over 100 attendees including passengers, Gold Coast Transit workers and their families, community members, and SEIU staff.

Members in Tri-Counties Launch Anti-Bullying Campaign (updated)

The Ventura County Grand Jury uncovered a host of workplace bullying incidents in Ventura County government. In response to the Grand Jury’s recommendations, SEIU Local 721 members in Tri-Counties are taking action by forming an Anti-Bullying Committee.

Attacks on Working Families Spark a Fire for a Fair Economy

Member leaders and staff from Riverside to Lompoc gathered on July 23, 2011 in Los Angeles to add kindling to the Fight for a Fair Economy.

Over 200 members [get approximate count] and staff united to prepare for the challenges as anti-labor forces move into California.

“Wisconsin is coming to California. The enemy is at the gate,” warned Bob Schoonover, SEIU Local 721’s President.

A Major Victory – Tom Johnston Elected to VCERA’s Board of Retirement

Tom Johnston, a County Respirator Critical Care Worker, was elected to VCERA Board of Retirement on July 7, 2011. Tom presently serves on SEIU Local 721’s Executive Board.

“This election success was due to joint efforts by SEIU 721, CNA Nurses, and all allied Members in the Ventura County Coalition of Unions. In Unity you find power and strength,” said Johnston.

Rosie Martinez: Notes from the Selma-Montgomery March

When I first thought about going on the Montgomery to Selma march in Alabama, my thoughts were about the various meetings and work left undone. I thought about leaving my family to fend for themselves. Then, I made the decision to experience an historic event that would ultimately change my life forever.