Union members,
On behalf of OCEA, I want to wish you all a Happy Labor Day. Orange County provides essential public services because tens of thousands of you show up to work every day, in clinics and courtrooms, on road crews, at eligibility windows, in city halls and special districts. Today belongs to you.
Labor Day gives us a moment to rest, but also to reflect. We have the privilege and the honor of being one of the last remaining lines of defense in the class war being waged on working families. It is a responsibility none of us should take lightly.
The eight-hour workday, pensions, the right to speak up at work without losing your job—none of it was handed down by an employer. Workers organized and used their strength and solidarity to win these benefits. You have already demonstrated what that does on home turf in recent years by helping to elect the first worker-friendly majority in the history of the Orange County Board of Supervisors, and winning contract improvements at the County, the Courts, and in cities and districts across O.C.
Fifty-six million American workers say they would join a union tomorrow if they could, according to a recent report by the Economic Policy Institute. You already have one, and what you do in this union matters. The top political donors in the country have already spent more than $1.6 billion this election cycle, according to the Washington Post. They may have the money. We have the people.
Whether it’s being a more informed union member or using that information to become a Steward and help to educate your co-workers, there are plenty of ways for you to take a larger role in your union.
This fall OCEA will call members and walk neighborhoods in support of local, endorsed candidates. At the County, and in many cities and districts across O.C., the opportunity exists for you to join those efforts, become a workplace leader, play a part in the negotiations process, or take a larger role in the leadership of your union. The movement needs strength and solidarity from members like you.
Enjoy the day. And remember, the fight continues. Will you join us?
In Solidarity,
Charles Barfield
OCEA General Manager
