Taking it up a notch
Transforming the next generation of member leaders as we prepare for bargaining

Nearly two dozen member leaders from across the state gathered at Local 1000’s Sacramento office October 12–16 to participate in a dynamic new leadership development program. The program is designed to recognize and mentor effective leaders to build Union power and solidarity as we prepare to bargain a new contract as well as fight off continuing attacks on the union.

A full week of interactive workshops empowered these leaders with the skills to engage our members and build the worksite networks that will be crucial for the challenges ahead. Though the sessions were diverse and covered a range of topics, the theme of better and more meaningful communication with coworkers was consistent throughout the training

Angie Miller, CDCR, Susanville

“I learned how to talk to our members about what’s important to them and to encourage more people to get involved with their union. We need to stand up for what we want and move forward with more power, so the things that happened in Wisconsin don’t happen here.

G Perdigones, DSH, Vacaville

“I’m honing my skills to communicate better with my membership at the grassroots level. I’m able to have better conversations by sharing my story and learning what’s important to my coworkers. I feel more confident as a leader, and I’m ready to do more for my colleagues and for Local 1000.”

Bob Mutebi, CHCF, Stockton

“I’m using the things I learned this week to take my role as a steward to a whole other level. Before, I worked to solve problems … now, I’m not just helping my members, I’m organizing them to build power and identifying other leaders to join me in building that power.”

Crystal McCray, CEPA, Sacramento

“Being part of the union and learning how it works changes your perspective of what’s important. There’s a union-busting movment going on across the nation, and we’re learning about building a cohesive team of staff, leaders and members to make a difference at our jobs and in our communities.”