WFSE's 50th Biennial Convention Kicks Off in October

From October 6-8, 2023, WFSE will hold our 50th Biennial Convention at the DoubleTree Hotel in Seatac, WA.

As this convention coincides with the 80th year of our union, WFSE Executive Committee determined the theme for this year’s convention to be History Built, Future Bound.

If you are a delegate to the convention, check your email for a link to the convention webpage.

How Convention Works

For the last several months, WFSE’s local unions have elected delegates and alternates to take part in our convention. When it is in session, our convention is the largest governing body of our union. 

Delegates and alternates are elected by locals to attend and represent them at the convention. Delegates set our union’s priorities for the future, renew shared commitments and strategize to make us stronger.

Convention Business

The primary union business that takes place at convention is: 

  • WFSE’s four officers (president, vice president, secretary, and treasurer, which make up the Executive Committee) are elected by the delegates

  • Policies for the next biennium are formulated

  • Any amendments to the WFSE constitution are considered

Other Convention Activities

The convention is not solely focused on business matters. We also take the time to reflect on our activism, celebrate the achievements of our fellow members, and learn about how to take part in convention and the critical issues facing our membership.

Convention Awards

WFSE members rise to the occasion to help our union siblings and our communities. As public service workers, it's what we do. And over the past two years, our union has proven that there is nothing we can’t accomplish when we rise up in solidarity with one another. By presenting Convention Awards, we recognize the members who have gone above and beyond.

Convention Workshops

Additionally, we offer educational opportunities through Convention Workshops, including a New Delegate workshop. It's an excellent starting point for those who have not attended a convention before. You'll get the chance to meet new delegates, learn about the basic information of convention, and how to participate in union business, such as speaking, voting, and taking action on resolutions and amendments.

Guest Speakers

We are excited to be joined by inspiring speakers for our convention this year, including:

  • Elissa McBride, Secretary Treasure of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, AFSCME, AFL-CIO

  • Bob Ferguson, Washington Attorney General, and Candidate to become the next Governor of Washington State.

  • Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal, Washington’s 7th District

  • Hilary Franz, Public Lands Commissioner, and Candidate to become the next Governor of Washington State.

  • April Sims, President of the Washington State Labor Council
  • Governor Jay Inslee 

PEOPLE Member Casino Night

Convention is also a chance for us to express our gratitude for your PEOPLE contributions. The WFSE Legislative and Political Action department will host a fun-filled "Casino Night" for all PEOPLE members, complete with light refreshments, drink tickets, and prizes. You can learn about PEOPLE and join here. 

If you would like to  experience a WFSE Convention please connect with your Local Leaders for more information. We look forward to seeing you in October!