statements-vicepresident

Michael Berlin

The next several years will probably be the most important times for AFSCME-SUOAF members in the Union’s history. CT is on the verge of bankruptcy. The media has done a good job of making state workers the villains for the horrible financial mess our elected officials have put us in. All we have gained in the past 30+ years are at stake when in 2017 the agreements between the SEBAC Unions and the State expire.

I accepted the nomination for VP of our Chapter because I feel very strongly that we must continue the fight to keep what we have and prevent violations of our agreements no matter how small. We must band together for the good of each of us.

Now, more than ever we need experienced people to run our local to make sure we are all treated fairly, within the confines of our contract and to strongly represent us to the Campus Administration and on the SUOAF Local Executive Board. We need to work closely with the Local to meet the challenges we will be facing.

During my almost 25 years here at ECSU I have:
• Supported negotiations to keep our members working (save jobs)
• Actively engaged in interpreting and enforcing the contract through the grievance process (level 1 thru arbitration)
• Served as a Steward for 2 years
• Served as Acting VP on the Chapter Board
• Served on the SUOAF Local Exec Board
• Served as a SUOAF rep to Senate

I ask your support to allow me to continue to represent and help us make ECSU as equitable and stable a working environment as we can.