President's Perspective
"Leading From Where We Stand"

(July 27, 2011) I dedicate this President’s Perspective to the memory of our friend, colleague, advocate, leader, and mentor, Connie Knox. Without her encouragement, I would not have had the faith to continue my path to leadership.

To quote a phrase from a WBNG member, “leadership is the collective voices of the membership body to which leaders are elected to represent." I hope to always remember this comment as I continue my path in leadership: “The collective voices of the members.” This is what leadership and the local is all about.

In reviewing the strategic organizing model for our Local, I came across an area which discussed the roles of our unit vice chairs and their growth as leaders. This made me think about what it truly means to be a leader. According to the dictionary, it is “the process of social influence in which one person can enlist the aid and support of others in the accomplishment of a common task.” So, how does the role of the Local fit in here? The Local:

• Represents the units we serve.
• Oversees operations and administration for units we serve.
• Provides support – legal help, people, and experienced staffers to tackle tough issues – for each unit’s needs.

How do these areas differ from one another? They do not; they work with one another. Our collective role requires us as leaders to provide you a service one way or another. It is critically important that we take the time to listen intently and give our full attention to any one of our members seeking guidance. We need to use our educational resources to provide the basic understanding of how each leader is to interact with management, utilizing the lessons learned as stewards.

Leaders must also lead by example; being argumentative diminishes your standing and role as a leader. Our leadership roles have evolved over the decade; it is no longer about one person having sole control, but about sharing that responsibility.

We must also nurture future leaders. New generations of leaders are brewing, and leaders of today must be ready to step in to the roles of mentors. It is up to us to find and prepare the future leaders, providing members their collective voice.

So where does that leave our vice chairs and the other officers? By allowing them not to become discouraged with the work ahead of them, you as a leader must provide encouragement and empowerment. Provide them with strong examples of your leadership skills; allow them to ask the important questions, ensuring your responses are clear.

As unit leaders, you are providing your officers with the necessary tools and resources that you have in your personal toolbox. They stepped up because they were ready to become leaders and in order for us to inspire them to continue, we must be leaders from where we stand, so that they do not tire. It is about preparation, education and training.

Although our primary union focus is on organizing and growing the union, we must remember that training is just as important. Even though resources may fall short, it is our duty to find the time to train our future leaders. For this is one of the many goals that Connie took the time to pursue, and it’s a task that she has left each of us to push forward.

Connie always made time to answer questions for me and other upcoming leaders, and have meaningful conversations. So should you.

As the Local continues its review of finances and the status of our bargaining contracts, we will resume our training workshops and encourage each of you to attend. Keep in mind that during this time you can always take the opportunity to work with your assigned local rep, and establish ongoing unit training of your leadership and stewards.

Yours in Solidarity,