Transport Workers Union of America
San Francisco Local 250-A
President's Corner
January 18, 2012
Sisters and Brothers of Transport Workers Union Local 250-A,
We have begun the work to unite this membership. First we need to understand what unionism is. It is not only that a union should fight and represent the membership, but also to be there as proactive support addressing the everyday issues while at work.
I have said, coming into my office, that we will no longer be doing 'busines as usual' in terms of dealing with the SFMTA. I could let this go unspoken, but I choose to verbalize it, in order for our union to be taken seriously.
I, my fellow officers, and all of the membership need to understand that we must conduct ourselves as professionals at ALL times. We can not knowingly or unknowingly allow ourselves to be caught unaware of the agency's workplace rules. Being informed will only benefit you at the end of the day. In short, help us help you!
As your union officers, we will no longer take a 'wait and see' approach in dealing with workplace issues. I have expressed numerous times to the exective officers and division chairs, that we will be proactive. First and foremost, we work for you and act as your 'voice.' The division chairs are frontliners that will deal with issues as they come up and as soon as possible.
Recent and persistent negative campaigns have colored a negative image of our union. I'm pleased to announce that we now have an official spokesperson. I have appointed Vice President, Ron D. Austin, to act as our union's official media contact. He shall respond to all media inquiries about the hard-working sisters and brothers of our union.
This journey we undertake will be a challenge to repair the damage done to our union, however I am committed to the fight in making the necessary changes in this effort. We will only be successful with your support.
I will be setting up voluntary committees per our union's by-laws. These committees will be in place, so that members like you who wish to be involved can participate. The following committees shall be established: COPE Committee; Education Committee; Community Relations Committee; Safety, Health and Welfare Committee; Activities Committee; Sick/Benevolent Committee. If you would like to be considered for a committee, please send me an email request of your desire to participate to ewilliams@twusf.org.
Fraternally,
Eric Williams, President
TWU Local 250-A