Organizing Academy in Phoenix this March helps Liuna Public Employee Local 777 achieve new member recruitment.

PHOENIX, AZ. - UPEC Local 792 Representative Christine Perry attended a one week organizing class in Phoenix, AZ, March 16 thru 21, focusing on non-construction organizers to help leaders take a more active role in organizing and training of organizers for their Local Union.  The Academy included classroom sessions, working with experienced organizers, and visiting various public sector bargaining units.  Union staff and members came from all over the United States to attend this training.  This was an extremely valuable experience with memories and information that will help each of us better support our Union Brothers and Sisters. 

Arizona is a “Right to Work” state and Liuna 777 is challenged to recruit their public employees to join their union.  To help Local 777 our teams met at various job sites meeting with workers to inform them on the importance of showing solidarity by being an active Union member.    The City is contracting out services to the lowest bidders and the members are facing substantial cuts in their upcoming contract.  We were able to sign up 24 new members and we feel our diligent efforts will help others come on board in the weeks ahead.

During our conference the Arizona State Legislature was in session.  We learned there were Labor Laws being addressed.  Our entire group showed up at the capitol wearing our orange shirts and marched in front of the Capital to demonstrate Union Solidarity.

We also participated as a group to work at the St. Mary’s Food Distribution Center in Phoenix.  This was the first food distribution center formed in the United States and is the largest in the nation.  In 2 hours we distributed 13,857 pounds of food at the center.  The Manager said our Union members set a new record in distribution efficiency.

Thank you to all at LiUNA for making these educational and hands-on working opportunities possible.  Your team of experts truly exemplify the dynamic leadership we are proud to support.  Thank you to Local 777 for your energy and enthusiastic hospitality.

Christine Perry