Burton
SYRACUSE — Syracuse State Employees Local President Diane Burton hates the spotlight, but it shined on her at the 2024 Greater Syracuse Labor Council (GSLC) Dinner, at which she was presented with the council’s ‘Activist of the Year’ award.
“It’s important to be recognized for stepping up and representing our members, and members of other unions,” said Burton. “I’m humbled and honored, but I hope by getting this award, it encourages others to step up or get involved in any way.”
Burton, an office assistant II at the New York State Insurance Fund, has been part of her local since 2015, but her union involvement started earlier when she was employed at SUNY Upstate.
While Burton was employed at the hospital, former SUNY Upstate Local President Kathy Yeldon approached her about filling a leadership role.
“Kathy really got me involved with our union and taught me so much,” said Burton. “It was expected we all know how to represent members in interrogations and disciplines, and that was a huge thing for me to get me to where I am today.”
Burton often describes her current local as a “catch-all,” as it represents CSEA members employed at numerous state agencies across Central New York.
“We have 41 agencies,” said Burton. “That’s challenging right there. We go as far as the Gaming Commission at del Lago (in Waterloo) down to Montour Falls. They’re spread out. The biggest challenge is working full time and getting to those members who aren’t in the immediate area.”
Burton is a great resource for new members and officers, particularly when it comes to safety and negotiations, as she was a member of the last state contract negotiating team.
“Diane is a wonderful union member and leader, but maybe more importantly, a great friend,” said Central Region President Kenny Greenleaf. “All of us in the Central Region are happy to see her great work be recognized.”
She’s also been a great asset for the local labor movement by serving on the Greater Syracuse Labor Council Executive Board. In that capacity. Burton works with the various unions in the Syracuse area, whether that means joining workers on a picket line, helping go door-to-door to spread information or helping campaign for labor-friendly political candidates. Recently, Burton joined in a labor walk on behalf of State Sen. John Mannion, who is seeking election to the House of Representatives in New York’s 22nd Congressional District (see page 6 for more).
“I’d like to thank Greater Syracuse Labor Council President Mark Spadafore and the council executive board,” said Burton. “I’ve learned a lot just through the GSLC working with the different unions out there and seeing the struggles they have and helping in any way.”
Burton, who was honored with our union’s Danny Donohue Leadership Award for State Government in 2020, is always looking toward ushering new leaders and activists into the fold.
“With me getting this award, it might motivate others to get more involved,” said Burton. “Future award winners should know that I am humbled to get this award. If it encourages someone else to step up and get involved and work with the labor movement, then we’re on the right path of doing what we need to.”
— Nicholas Newcomb
