AFSCME in Chicago – Political Action and Inspiration

by   |  August 08, 2006

By Sheri Van Horsen -- Member, Council 97 and Candidate for the Arizona House of Representatives. Political Action was the theme of the day, and thousands of us donned our bright-green AFSCME PEOPLE t-shirts to show it. How lucky – and proud -- I felt to be in front of the entire Convention, looking out on that sea of green, speaking about the power of politics. I emceed a program featuring four dedicated AFSCME brothers and sisters who each spoke of their battles, their bruises, and their victories in electing candidates who support working families. Their stories reminded us that when we get together and take political action, there’s no stopping us. I decided recently to run for a seat in the Arizona House of Representatives because I truly believe in people power. It’s is one of the most exciting and at times difficult things (especially when I’m pounding the pavement in 110 degree heat) I’ve ever done. But I’ve got role models. In fact I got to introduce one of them today. I was already so excited to be part of the Convention program today that I nearly had a heart attack when I found out that I would also be introducing Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton. She is truly an inspiration to me. She’s a working woman. She raised her family. And she believes in fighting for working people. I decided to run for public office because I believe I should reach higher and that I can do more. Senator Clinton is proof that it’s possible.