California Chief Justice receives OCEA bargaining petitions
OCEA member,
On Friday, Oct. 27 I attended a meeting in Buena Park featuring California Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani Gorre Cantil-Sakauye. The event was part of a series hosted by Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva that brings together members of the community with leaders in California.
During that meeting the Chief Justice described her role and her priorities. These included being responsible as the head of the Judicial Council for ensuring access to justice in the California Superior Court, including those in Orange County. I used this meeting as an opportunity to educate the Chief Justice on the situation facing you and other Orange County Superior Court workers. I spoke about the realities you all face. Less take home pay, increased cost of living, an ever growing workload and of course the wage disparity between front line workers and those at the top.
The discussion was positive, however the Chief Justice was non-committal as to any specific ways she would intervene. I told the Chief Justice that it is imperative for the Court to treat its workers with fairness and respect.
OCEA will continue to advocate for a fair contract in current negotiations, but also will be fighting to change the status quo that perpetuates a culture that devalues you and the essential work you do. This includes fighting for resources in Sacramento, supporting elected officials who will stand with us in our fight for justice, and securing additional support from allies in our community.
In solidarity,
Jennifer Beuthin
OCEA General Manager
Publication Date: November 1, 2017