Over 471 people attend Conference
OSEA chapter officers and leaders arrived at the Red Lion on the River in Portland the afternoon of Thursday, June 23. They attended Presidents’ Council and Activists’ Training before Conference officially began at 6:30 p.m. that evening. The opening ceremonies included a welcome from President Bonnie Luisi, the presentation of the colors, a beautiful rendition of the national anthem by Zone VII Director Ma’Lena Wirth and the traditional parade of banners. Over 471 people attended Conference this year, including members, vendors, guests and staff.
Over the course of three days, members voted on resolutions, participated in training opportunities and heard updates from chapters around the state. President Luisi gave her State of the Union speech Friday and Executive Director Steven Araujo talked about some of the victories of the year on Saturday, both encouraging members to “Teach the present, learn from the past and change the future.” They also provided delegates with a vision and direction for the upcoming year. Members were challenged by an engaging speech from AACSE President George Williams and a presentation on combating anti-union messaging from the Labor Education and Research Center (LERC).
“The solidarity felt when members believe in their union and the good it does is incredible,” said Zone VI Director Karen Smith. “To have everyone—from first time attendees to life members—acting as ONE; it made Conference a guaranteed good time for all who attended.”