Metz Culinary Management Local President Aleta Palmer is shown on the job.
BUFFALO — Metz Culinary Management Local President Aleta Palmer has been recognized for her hard work and dedication to advocating for members and using her voice to improve workers’ lives.
Palmer, a 42-year employee and leader in our union since the early 1990s, was recently awarded the Danny Donohue Leadership Award – Private Sector in recognition of her hard work and longevity.
“If you only knew how excited I was to finally get recognized for my time, all my hard work and determination I have put in to being a union president,” said Palmer, who along with her co-workers, provides food service at Erie County Medical Center and Terrace View Long Term Care Facility.
In the 1990s, Palmer served as the local’s vice president. In that office, Palmer worked hard to advocate for members and educate them on their rights.
After the local president stepped down, Palmer was elected local president by members who wanted Palmer to be their voice.
“I was immediately voted to become president, so I have been doing this for quite a long time,” said Palmer.
Palmer’s longevity in her position has helped her co-workers stay union strong, even while facing challenges.
“I have stayed to help them and be a voice,” said Palmer. “For many years, the different companies we have had have tried to go against union contracts, and I was and still am a voice for them. Without my voice, the companies would have won, but I stood up, spoke up and took charge.”
Palmer attributes a great amount of her success to the support she has from her union representatives and leaders.
“I have always had backing and support, which is another reason I have stayed as long as I have,” said Palmer. “Without their support, I would not have been able to be a strong voice with the knowledge I needed.”
Palmer has spent her time as a union leader advocating for employees and members, making sure they are not taken advantage of, misinformed or misrepresented.
“I will continue to advocate and be a voice for them,” said Palmer.
— Sydney Thomas
