There is power in numbers, and that’s why we continue to expand our union. WFSE members work hard to inform co-workers of the benefits of joining and to bring union representation to public employees who don’t have it.
Through the pandemic and subsequent economic crises, we’ve used our collective power to ensure the continuation of public services. We’ve also spoken up to protect each other’s safety, rights, and wellbeing.
For the past seven months, WFSE volunteer member organizers (VMOs) have been visiting public employees who aren’t yet members to share the power of union solidarity.
Karen E. Johnson has been a case manager and program specialist at the Columbia River Community Services Office (CSO) in Vancouver, Washington for 17 years. She recently completed a ten-day stint as a WFSE VMO, speaking with other public employees about union membership.
“It’s really important that my colleagues join their union,” Johnson said. “There is power in numbers.”
Johnson joined the VMO team to learn more about outreach and unionism. She worked with staff organizers to visit other public employees, hear their concerns, and share her reasons for becoming a member.
“One example we gave folks is when the state was going to change our medical in the middle of the pandemic,” Johnson said.
“The only reason they were persuaded not to do that was because not one or two of us spoke with them—thousands of us did.”
“We need numbers to make things happen,” Johnson said.
During her time as a VMO, Johnson had powerful conversations with public employees about their rights at work. One person shared that she needed support to address problems at her workplace but feared illegal retaliation if she were to join WFSE.
“I could relate to that,” Johnson said.
“I thought of my own story and saying to myself, ‘Now Karen, you can’t be scared. You have to get some help.’”
Johnson, a veteran case manager, has faced her own challenges at work. When she began her employment at the Columbia River CSO, she brought a glowing record of service—but she was met with a pattern of racist discrimination that eventually culminated in false allegations against her.
A long investigation uncovered that Johnson’s supervisor had committed serious ethics violations. Thanks to support from her union, the false claims against Johnson were dismissed.
Johnson has gone on to become the Respect, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Facilitator-Ambassador and Chairperson of the Region 3 office, traveling the state to bring hope and solidarity to others facing oppression at work.
“Our union stepped up for me at my time of need,” Johnson said.
“Especially in this climate, where we’re facing discrimination, not just people of color but LGBTQ people and many others, we really need the support of a union,” Johnson said.
Just days after their meeting, the public employee, who told Johnson that she feared illegal retaliation, made a phone call to a WFSE organizer. She wanted to make positive change at work, and she was ready to join.
Are you interested in working as a Volunteer Member Organizer? Your story and voice can help others and make our entire union stronger. Apply today for this paid training and organizing opportunity.
