AFSCME in San Francisco – Making America Happen

July 30, 2008

Day 2 of AFSCME's 38th International Convention: In addition to a stirring speech by Secretary-Treasurer William Lucy, the important work of public service workers across the nation was featured during a special "We Make America Happen" program on Tuesday. The program was led by Jim Howell, executive director of Connecticut Council 15. Through a blend of video and live member testimonies, delegates learned about the different ways AFSCME members make America happen as workers in the public sector, and as activists in politics and grassroots organizing. Watch an excerpt from Yolanda Gonzales, senior food service worker at the University of California, Local 3299: Visit the AFSCME.org Convention site for more video from Tuesday, including testimony from Michelle Mason, direct care worker at the Bellefontaine Habilitation Center, Local 2370 (Missouri Council 72); Mike McGuire, house inspector in the City of Langley, Local 1896 (Pennsylvania Council 13); and Mike Flaherty, equipment mechanic for the City of San Diego, Local 127 (California Council 36). AFL-CIO Exec. Vice Pres. Arlene Holt Baker, a former AFSCME International Union area director in California, also addressed the Convention. Today, delegates heard from former Vice President Al Gore. For photos and more convention coverage, go to www.afscme.org/convention.