All Together: CSEA delegates show power at 45th AFSCME International Convention

PHILADELPHIA — CSEA officers and activists across the state recently showed CSEA’s power at AFSCME’s 45th International Convention.

The convention’s theme was “All Together,” a celebration of gathering in person once again after COVID prevented delegates from gathering in 2020.

In addition to conducting International union business, delegates heard addresses from AFSCME International President Lee Saunders, International Secretary-Treasurer Elissa McBride, AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler and numerous other guests, including Georgia gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams and U.S. Labor Secretary Marty Walsh.

Susan Zeh, Groveland
Correctional Facility Local
president, shows solidarity
for Philadelphia Museum of
Art workers fighting for a fair
contract.

Attendees also attended numerous breakout workshops designed to help them build their skills in areas that include union leadership and activism, political action and communications.

Delegates also rallied outside the Philadelphia Museum of Art to show solidarity for AFSCME members employed at the museum who are fighting for a fair contract.

Another key part of the program was a tribute to former AFSCME International President Gerald McEntee, who passed away on July 10.

“It was great for CSEA delegates to gather together in person to conduct the very important business of our International union,” said CSEA President Mary E. Sullivan, who is also an AFSCME International Vice President. “Delegates had the opportunity to learn from one another and build their activist skills so that we can keep our union strong.”

— Jill Asencio

Capital Region Executive Vice President Shana Davis, right, makes a point on the convention floor with great support from CSEA officers and delegates.