Young Members Meeting Opens All-Craft

On Saturday, October 26, the Young Members Committee kicked off the 2019 All-Craft Conference with an exciting all-day training at the Bally’s Las Vegas Hotel. The training featured speakers, training and open mic discussions of issues young members face.

Opening the training was Western Region Coordinator Omar Gonzalez, who presented a Brief History of the APWU, beginning with the establishment of the first post office in the United States in 1639. Secretary-Treasurer Liz Powell then greeted the attendees and offered words of encouragement for a successful conference.

President Dimondstein provided attendees with information on interest arbitration proceedings, and explained to the Young Members the importance of a good union contract for future generations. “In this contract fight, we’re passing on the wages and benefits that our forefathers fought for before us,” President Dimondstein said. “Our contract slogan is apt: Fighting Today for a Better Tomorrow. You’re our today and you’re our tomorrow,” he told the Young Members.

Sabrina Larsen, Western Region Area Representative and Young Members Committee member, also provided a training on the US Mail: Not for Sale campaign, showing members how to get involved in keeping the Postal Service in public hands.

Following the training sessions, Retirees Department Director Nancy Olumekor introduced the five Regional Retiree Delegates, who bridged the gap between older and newer members and highlighted the importance of passing institutional knowledge between generations.

“The enthusiasm and cooperation between our young members and our seasoned members is something I’ll never forget,” said Young Member Ashley Sorensen, of the Salt Lake City Area Local.

The All-Craft Conference continues through Thursday, October 31. Sunday’s events include the Legislative and Political conference.