Painting the Capitol Purple

530 members flock to 2009 lobby days

This year, SEIU Local 503 continued its tradition of filling the Capitol in Salem with an “army of purple.”  From January through March, 530 members from around the state visited the building during 14 designated SEIU 503 lobby days to promote our goals:
1)  Preserve quality public services at a time of record demand.
2)  Protect workers’ rights and create jobs.
3)  Fund quality services by creating a fair tax system.
4)  Increase health care affordability and access for all Oregonians.
5)  Reform Oregon’s initiative process.

Every week, and sometimes twice a week, the hallways of the Capitol were filled with “purple people.”  Many of this year’s participants were visiting the Capitol for the first time. It was a great chance to build solidarity and make our voices heard. With so many of us at the Capitol so often, our elected leaders could not ignore us. We were heard, loud and clear.

“Telling my story was great. I enjoyed listening to other members tell their stories as well. I learned that our concerns and hopes on the job are very similar.”
Tera Martinez, SSP, DHS, Coos Bay

“After meeting with us, Rep. Cameron expressed sincere interest in following up on the currently contracted out MMIS system in DHS.” 
Jerry Rosenkoetter, Employment, Salem

“The best part of the day was meeting with Senator Bill Morisette.  He really listened to us and offered to take our message (about how furlough days will hurt our community) directly to the Governor.”
Debra Perry, Oregon Institute of Technology, Klamath Falls

“After meeting with us, my representative asked us to come back to attend a hearing to talk about how layoffs and furloughs will affect our fire fighting capabilities.”
Kevin Cole, Department of Forestry, Molalla

“I really enjoyed meeting and seeing about 155 members of our union gather together in one place! Meeting Rep. Jean Cowan and Sen. Joanne Verger was a real treat. I was happy to share my personal story with Rep. Cowan and let her know how devastating it would be to my clients to be without care and benefits. She is very supportive of our work and what we do.”
Lorilynn Espinoza, Home Care Provider, Lincoln City

“Rep. Chip Shields made us feel at home – and he remembered me from the last time! He had a picture of me in his office!”
Portia Moye, Child Care Provider, Portland

As the legislative session continues, we need to continue meeting with our legislators to keep our priorities in the front of their minds.  Stay tuned for more opportunities to get involved as our lobbying program moves into attending local town halls and community forums.

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