I am a worker. A young union worker. A living, breathing manifestation of boycotts, riots and rallys past. We are descendants of those who broke their backs to create better living wages and necessities that we sometimes take for granted. How did they do it, we wonder? With support from each other. We are reaping the protection and blessing of union jobs, fair wages and respect and dignity in the workplace.
Many people are not working right now and these days, it is very important to encourage workers. Now, more than ever for my generation, we need to show our support to our union sisters and brothers, past and present.
The Office and Professional Workers International Union Local 12 honored retiring and previous executive board members in a celebration on May 19. One of those recipients was Verretta Strickland, Financial Information Specialist for the Minnesota AFL-CIO. Verretta served on the OPEIU Local 12 Executive Board and represented the Trade Unions while also serving on the Finance Committee. She was integral in the decision making process for OPEIU12 members and her hard work and dedication has not gone unnoticed. As a natural encourager and go-getter, Verretta encouraged me to further my love for my union by becoming a member of the OPEIU 12 Executive Board.
As the youngest member on the Executive Board, I have gained a wealth of knowledge from Verretta and other board members. It is an honor and a privilege to become a face for the union members who need a thoughtful voice to represent them. Familiar with working as a board member in other capacities, the weighty importance of representing workers is not new to me. Through the OPEIU 12 board I am fostering change for other young workers that are currently members or will someday be a part of this life changing movement. We are all working to create a better life for ourselves and our families but if we can use Verretta’s example and that of the OPEIU 12 Board and encourage a young worker, we just might make change on a far greater level than we could have imagined.
So next time you see a fellow brother or sister in the movement, pat them on the back, pay them a compliment and let them know that they are appreciated. We are all here to support each other. If we do not lift one another up, who will?
In Solidarity,
Sharice McCain, Administrative Assistant, MN AFL-CIO
OPEIU 12