Phelps
As the first woman to chair both CSEA’s statewide and Long Island Region Veterans Committees, Maryann Phelps has carved out her own piece in CSEA’s history.
When Phelps first joined CSEA’s statewide Veterans Committee, she was the only woman present.
Now, 18 years later, Phelps is happy to see more women on the committees, which currently includes female active-duty reservists.
The increase in women’s presence on these committees is all part of CSEA’s dedication to lifting up women’s voices in unionism.
For Phelps, women’s rights and labor rights are naturally connected because both movements are a part of a collective fight for justice.
“When women in labor fight for things like pay equity, we’re providing a benefit to all women that will move us closer to equality and equity,” said Phelps. “We’re not just fighting for CSEA members, we’re fighting for everyone.”
As a woman, Phelps has faced many levels of sexism in her career.
“I looked at those situations as motivation to try harder to achieve my goals,” said Phelps. “You have to stand up in the face of sexism and be stronger, not just for yourself but for all of the women who come after you.”
Like most assertive women, Phelps is a firm believer that when women work together, they can achieve.
“We’re better when we work together, which is the essence of unionism,” said Phelps.
As for her advice to future female activists, Phelps says that it is essential to form bonds with other women and to learn from their success and their failures; and to always surround yourself with strong women.
— Wendi Bowie
