Reflections from NV Delegates to AFSCME Convention

“Attending the convention as a first-time delegate was a huge honor. I learned we are powerful in numbers, which we displayed at the Shedd Aquarium rally for a fair contract; an action which left me fully empowered. I learned that my fellow delegates were not only amazing but we’re all a resource of ASFCME knowledge and did not mind answering questions.”

Yolanda Kemp

“At convention, delegates vote on resolutions and amendments submitted by locals all over the country. I learned a lot from other delegates who were part of writing them and gathering support for their resolution. I got to speak on the floor in support of resolution 69, a resolution about the importance of organizing and how much stronger we are when members get active in building our union!”

Blaine Harper

“As a first-time delegate, it was a great experience to see how our union of 1.4 million members strong operates as an organization with people from all walks of life. During debate on various resolutions and amendments to the AFSCME constitution, we were able to share our views and opinions on a wide range of issues. We may not all agree on everything, but we can agree that when we fight as a union, WE WIN AS A UNION!”

Terra Carter

“Attending the 2026 AFSCME International Convention in Chicago gave me a deeper understanding of our union’s mission, the importance of collective action, and the power of having a strong voice. I gained valuable knowledge, connected with fellow members, and left inspired to become more engaged and active in rallying our members and community to get out and vote.”

Dawn Ashford

“Attending the AFSCME 47th International Convention was a truly enriching experience, as I was inspired by the powerful stories of the labor movement shared by fellow members from across the nation. Hearing about their victories highlighted the significant impact our union has on improving the lives of families. I also gained a deeper appreciation for our union’s strength, which is rooted in its impressive 90-year history and vast membership. Being part of the political committee, I learned the importance of having resolutions that will guide our union’s position on various issues.”

Maria Jacobi

“Serving as a first-time delegate at the 47th AFSCME International Convention in Chicago was an absolutely exhilarating experience! Being part of the voting process for critical resolutions, marching alongside union brothers and sisters for better contracts, and connecting with fellow members from across the country was incredibly inspiring. It was also an honor to witness history by giving outgoing President Lee Saunders a proper send-off and welcoming our new International President Patrick Moran.”

Latasha Hill-Burrell

“Living in small town Nevada it is easy to forget that our Local 4041, which has grown exponentially in the last few years, is by comparison a very small local. Going to convention and being there with more people in attendance then our entire membership was mind blowing. Everyone there is AFSCME family; there with the common purpose of building union power to protect every type of possible public employee you can imagine, including many jobs that in our little home state of Nevada are private sector jobs.

Even when people disagreed on the best way for something to be handle, they were united in the drive and passion that together AFSCME can, has, and will continue to move mountains. For the 90th anniversary of AFSCME the convention theme was “built for this moment”. For 90 years AFSCME has been building to address the issues we face today.

Let those 1.4 million members show just how much power we have - AFSCME united AFSCME Strong. WE ARE BUILT FOR THESE TIMES, WE ARE NOT GOING TO GIVE UP. WE ARE BUILT FOR THIS MOMENT.”

Trish Lindauer

“What I enjoyed most of the AFSCME 47th International Convention was learning about the different aspects of AFSCME. I enjoyed being part of the Organization Committee where we discussed different resolutions about building and growing our union. I got to represent Nevada and have my voice heard among so many other affiliates. Every moment was a memorable moment that I will take with me and inspire others to be part of the AFSCME movement. When we fight we win!”

Rosina Barrientos