September 25, 2024 — The union’s legislative successes would not be possible without the strong political alliances PEF has built with elected officials across the state. Several officials addressed Convention delegates in person, and others sent video greetings.
Assemblymember Pamela Hunter, representing the 128th Assembly District in Syracuse, joined delegates during plenary session on day one, thanking members for their hard work and dedication to their professions and urged participation in the upcoming elections.
“We have about 50 days until one of the most transformational and important elections we may have in some of our lifetimes” she said. “Tomorrow (Sept. 17, 2024) is National Voter Registration Day and we need to get people to the polls to vote, to make sure they are active citizens participating in our democracy. We don’t want to go back; we are going to move forward together.”
Endorsed by PEF for his 22nd Congressional District campaign, State Sen. John Mannion was in the house on day one, too, thanking PEF for its continued support and reflecting on his own days as a union member and president, representing 400 fellow educators and school staff.
“PEF has always been there for me,” he said. “When union members vote, pro-union people win. What we’ve seen is a resurgence in the labor movement. We are getting younger people at the beginning of their career. They have faith in their union leaders. I’m proud to be a part of it.”
On day two of the Convention, State Sen. Rachel May took to the podium to thank delegates for the work they do for the people of New York and pledge continued support for the labor movement.
“I’m so grateful for the work that all of you do,” she said. “We spend a lot of time thinking about the impact of your work. About fixing Tier 6 so we can support you all; how can we support the Comptroller and your pension fund so we can make sure you are getting the rewards that you deserve? We know how hard you work.”
Sen. May, a former UUP member herself, said the movement is growing.
“We are seeing organizations unionizing that have never unionized before,” she said. “We are doing everything we can in the legislature to support labor. I am here with you!”
You can also view recorded remarks by SEIU President April Verrett and elected leaders Sen. Chuck Schumer, Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, and Attorney General Letitia James.