Fellow Union Members,

I am honored and excited to announce my candidacy for the position of Alternate Delegate, representing our esteemed local union at the upcoming International Convention. In the spirit of solidarity and collective empowerment, I am eager to contribute to the governing body of SEIU at the national level and the fortification of a robust international union.

This is not just a gathering of representatives; it is an opportunity to shape the very foundation of our workplaces, and our union. As your Alternate Delegate, I am committed to tirelessly advocating for resolutions that safeguard the rights and interests of our members, ensuring they have fair wages, safe working conditions, and a voice are the priorities of SEIU International.

Building a strong union at the international level is imperative for the prosperity and resilience of our local union. It provides us with a collective voice that transcends borders, amplifying our impact on issues that matter most to us. I am dedicated to fostering alliances, sharing best practices, and collaborating with fellow delegates to build a united front that can face the challenges of the ever-evolving labor landscape.

The role of a delegate is multifaceted and carries immense responsibility. Delegates play a pivotal role in shaping the future direction of our union. They vote on resolutions that define our stance on critical issues and actively participate in the election of national leaders who will guide our union forward. I am committed to approaching these responsibilities with diligence, integrity, and a deep understanding of the needs and aspirations of our diverse membership.

Our commitment to creating better workplaces is a shared mission, and I believe that inclusivity is fundamental to achieving this goal. Every worker, regardless of their background, deserves to feel welcome and valued within our union. I am dedicated to promoting an environment that celebrates diversity, fosters unity, and ensures that all voices are heard and respected.

In seeking your support, I am eager to embark on this journey as your Alternate Delegate. Together, we can shape the future of our union, advocate for meaningful change, and create workplaces that not only meet the needs of our members but also serve as beacons of fairness and inclusivity.

I humbly ask for your vote and support, and I am excited about the prospect of representing our local union on the international stage.

In solidarity,

Ibrahim Coulibaly

Candidate for Alternate Delegate

I am accepting this nomination for the opportunity to be voted by my peers as an alternate delegate, to represent SEIU 503 at the International Union Conference.

It is important for ODHS & OHA State employees to be represented in this setting.

My goal is to make connections, learn new strategies and tactics, to bring back and share with our Labor Leaders, with the goal of strengthening SEIU 503 and L200.

I ask for your vote, so I can support you, supporting our workforce.

Please consider voting for other ODHS & OHA employees to attend with me.

My name is Steve Demarest. I would be excited and honored to represent SEIU Local 503, OPEU as a delegate at the SEIU International Convention. I am currently the immediate past president of SEIU 503. I have been dedicated to our Union for many years and have served in several positions, including many years as a steward, elected leader at the sublocal and statewide levels, and General Council delegate. I know our Union well. If elected, I will draw on my experience and knowledge to represent SEIU 503 to the best of my ability, and to help advance the goals of 503 and the International Union to promote and support, as stated in SEIU’s constitution and bylaws, the dignity and worth of workers and the services they provide, and the improvement of the lives of workers and their families. Thank you for reading my statement and for your consideration of me as an alternate delegate. I would be grateful for your vote.

I’m running for this position because I want to represent all of our union members at the highest level and advocate for our members in anyway I can. I’m just you average union member trying to give us a voice at the larger platforms.

Dear Union Members,

My name is Gina Esqueda, Engagement Specialist out of Southern Oregon. I wanted to let you know that I am running for the 2024 SEIU 503 Convention Alternate Delegate position. Today, I am reaching out to you for your support and vote. It would be an honor to be able to represent you at the Service Employees International Union National Conference in Philadelphia.

I humbly take this opportunity to share my experience with you. For the past 17 years, I have had the opportunity to work for ODHS. During this time, I have held a variety of positions within the agency. Along this journey, I have acquired many skills and made connections across the state which has led me to become passionate about advocacy, worker’s rights and ensuring equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Currently, I serve as a steward for SSP. In this role, I will make sure that our union workers have adequate representation and are treated fairly in the workplace. I am also an active member of the Latinx Caucus and Civil Human Rights Committee.I also had the privilege of serving as a General Council Delegate and was also part of the planning committee.

These opportunities have allowed me to develop my activism and leadership skills and prepared me to attend other union events where our voice needed to be heard. I have attended many legislative lobby days, rallies, and union meetings.

I truly appreciate you taking the time to consider my candidacy. I am looking forward to representing all of you as the 2024 SEIU 503 Convention Alternate Delegate. Thank you for your vote.

Respectfully,

Gina Esqueda

I am running to represent you, the members, as Delegate for the International Convention. I am running in order to provide our members with a delegate committed to their empowerment. I believe we are a member driven union, and as a Bargaining Chair at central table, we won a once in a generation contract for our members. But with the new future we face, we need to be flexible and equitable. And we need to strive for unity and productive change by practicing inclusion of all members and their voices.

I have a proven record of standing up for all members and providing a voice to our collective voices. As a young member leader, I have been a part of conversations that have lead to growth in our union strength and collective strength.

We need an international union to address Climate Justice and Just Transition for working families. I helped move our union to support the climate initiatives in 2018 turning our purple union a little more “green.”

As a State Worker and a part time caregiver for my dad, I work hard and serve alongside my union to fight for a more just and equitable community. I have marched picket lines, lead chants, represented and bargained for members, and knocked doors to elect working family candidates. I have worked with the international to knock on doors to help win the Senate Race in Georgia, to win majority in Senate. Overall, you all seen me as a young man grow up in our union these last 12 years. I am more proud of our union and the future we can forge.

Local Leader:

– Former Treasurer for CAPE

– Former Southern Oregon Regional CAPE Chair

– Sub-Local 471 President

– Former Chairman of SEIU Member Organizing Committee

– Shop Steward

– Bargaining Chair State Worker 23-25 Contract

– Former Klamath Community College Vice Chair

– Southern Oregon Education Service District Board

– Lane Community College Board Chair

– State of Oregon Workforce Advisory Committee

I ask for your vote in this Election, Thank you.

Hi Folks:

Without any rules about length of candidate statements, I am going with the standard amount – 250 words.  I’d like to be considered to be an alternate delegate to the 2024 IU Convention.  I went in 2016 and loved the entire event.

I’ve been a steward, Board member, DHS/Employment Bargaining Team member, and Women’s Council Chair.  I retired a couple of years ago, but somehow I didn’t let go of 503.  I’ve retained my CAPE membership, so I remain actively engaged in the political arena to help select candidates for office that will support the goals of working families.  I’ve also been lucky enough to take minutes for the Higher Ed Bargaining Team and attend their rallies to support better wages for our members at colleges and universities.  I meet with my fellow retirees in person and over Zoom.  We’re small but mighty.

2024 is going to be a banner year.  At our IU Philadelphia convention, I hope to vote in a new SEIU President.  I’m betting on an appearance by Joe Biden.  He’s from Pennsylvania.  I’d like to be at the convention for all this and more.  Vote for me and you’ll keep a smile on my face!  As always, stay strong in this crazy world and know that better days are coming.  Bubbles Up.  (Jimmy Buffett fans will understand this.)

Betty Holladay

503 leads the way for workers in Oregon. As director of our Care Provider Division, I am proud of the work we’ve done together to win great contracts for our members and to empower a diverse, dedicated leadership all across our state. I look forward to learning from other locals and contributing to shaping SEIU’s vision for progress.

Vanessa Herriott

Care Provider Division Director

Local 503

My name is Vesna, and I am an Operations and Policy Analyst for OHA. I have combined 20 years of public service, 13 at Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) and 2 years at Oregon Health Authority (OHA). I also worked for a federal job part time, during the 2020 US Census, as a canvasser.

I hold a MA in Cultural Anthropology with a minor in Food and Social Justice Systems, and BA in Cultural Anthropology (both Cum Laude), both from OSU. I am also in the process of obtaining my second, Executive master’s in public administration from PSU, expected to graduate with honors this June 2024.

I am a SEIU union member and a past District 4 chair and chief steward for local 204. I am also an alumna of the “Oregon Labor Candidate School” (2016) where I learned how to serve Oregonians better.

I served on the Human Rights Committee for 4 years and the D4 Diversity Committee for 4 years, and currently I am an elected delegate to CAPE and SEIU bargaining team. I am a former Slavic ERG officer and originator at ODHS. Currently, I am a member of OHA’s “Healthy Families” ERG.

I take my public servant position very seriously and I serve diligently, ethically, accurately, and culturally aware. I am a first generation American from Macedonian descent and I have three wonderful children, and as of three years ago-an amazing husband as well. Thank you for considering me for the International SEIU convention in Philadelphia.

In Unity,

Vesna Grace Hopkins, MA

My name is Shelly McCarthy and I have an opportunity to become an elected Alternate SEIU International delegate and attend the International Conference in Philadelphia. It is an honor to be considered for this significant opportunity to represent Local99 and District 5 union members. In addition, I am currently campaigning for the Local99 Co-Director position, and General Council Delegate. As the current co-director for District 5, I have become more involved and understand how important it is to be a significant and enthusiastic leader. The opportunity to collaborate along with international SEIU leaders who are at the forefront of organizing the SEIU state and local unions is invaluable. Together our efforts to fight for members and all working families for better benefits, and higher wages will ensure a fruitful direction for our union. Our leaders are at the forefront of organizing life-saving services for the most vulnerable individuals in our communities and creating a more sustainable community.

I am running to represent SEIU 503 as an alternate at the 2024 SEIU International Convention because as 503 members our dues support the current agenda of the IU. I believe at all levels of our union from our worksite sub locals to the international union we need to be more democratic and to hear from rank and file members. When it comes to voting on resolutions and electing international officers and if selected I intend to bring that voice and perspective to the convention. Thank you for your support.

I have been involved in Home Care Council for 5 years. I have participated in virtual as well as in person lobby days as well as testifying in person for HB 4129. I was also honored to participate in the Care Champions Summit in Washington D.C. in December.

I look forward to participating in future events to continue to build our union.

Michelle Oeder

Mi nombre es Noemi Osorio Sarmiento. Y deseo postularme, para delegada IU. Para representar a mí comunidad de Oregon representando a Seiu local 503 de mi comunidad latina. Tengo experiencias en las diferentes áreas que he representado a mí comunidad en los siguientes eventos. Directora de mi distrito, General Cónsul, Lobby Day y mitins en el Capitolio de Oregon. Así mismo me gustaría tener una voz de mí comunidad a nivel nacional. Y espero seguir preparándome para seguir luchando por los derechos de nuestro gremio de trabajadores.Muchas gracias por la invitación.

Sinceramente.

Noemi Osorio Sarmiento.

My name is Joana Quintero. I am nominating myself as Alternative delegate to the IU. I have been working as a Personal Support worker for over 5 years as a caregiver for my youngest sister. I was not so active in the beginning since I had another job, making it difficult to attend regional meetings. I quit my second job and have more time to dedicate to help with turnout, especially making calls to the Spanish speaking members since I am bilingual. Last year I had the chance to plan our District Holiday Party! I am running for a Director position with a vision to bring more members in Jackson County, specifically Spanish speakers, to attend our regional meeting to gain important information about their benefits and learn more about their Union Rights. I am bilingual and I feel that I can be of service in building our Union while advocating for the rights of our consumers who are also part of our Homecare. Please VOTE FOR ME!

I am honored to announce my run for alternate delegate to the SEIU International Convention. With a commitment to solidarity, progress, and amplifying the voices of our members, I aim to represent our collective interests at SEIU Local 503 at the Convention.

I have witnessed the transformative power of collective action. From advocating for fair wages to building leadership within shops represented by 503, I have been deeply involved in our union’s efforts to uphold the rights and dignity of all workers.

If elected, I pledge to prioritize the following key principles:

1. **Unity and Solidarity:** I believe that our strength lies in our unity. I am committed to fostering solidarity among members across sectors and geographies to confront shared challenges and advance our common goals.

2. **Equity and Justice:** I will fight tirelessly to address systemic inequalities within our workplaces and communities. By centering equity and justice in our advocacy efforts, we can build a more inclusive and equitable labor movement for all.

3. **Empowerment and Representation:** It is essential that all voices within our union are heard and valued. I will work to ensure that diverse perspectives are represented in decision-making processes, empowering every member to actively participate in shaping our union’s future.

4. **International Collaboration:** Global solidarity is crucial in our fight for workers’ rights. I will seek opportunities to collaborate with the larger labor movement within SEIU, sharing knowledge and resources to create a more just and equitable society for all.

Together, we have the power to create positive change within our union and beyond. I humbly ask for your support and trust as we embark on this journey together. Together, let us build a stronger, more resilient labor movement that uplifts all workers and champions justice for generations to come.”

In solidarity,

Enrique E. Ruíz

My name is Jeri Simons and I am thrilled to state my candidacy for the position of

Alternate Delegate. I come from a union strong family that spans many generations

across various labor unions. My passion for our union runs deep. Since 2018 I’ve been

a housekeeper for Healthcare Services Group (HCSG) and Facility Steward at

Volare-Royale Gardens Nursing and Rehabilitation in Grants Pass. I am motivated by a

desire to serve and knowing I can make a difference for my fellow workers and their

families. By getting involved, I am contributing to a stronger, more effective union and I

want to be part of how we shape and grow our union.

Committed to serving my Sub Local, Nursing Homes, I’m seeking re-election as

Secretary/Treasurer. My dedication is reflected in my past roles on the Bargaining

Team, Nursing Home Council, and as a General Council Delegate. I actively improve

lives through committee work (Arbitration Screening & Committee on the Future), and

National Nursing Home Assembly participation, and numerous union activities

promoting solidarity, diversity, and unity.

I’ve rallied with members at Lobby Days in Salem and I’ve talked with legislators about

the needs of our members. I had the opportunity to serve as a MOC in 2021 and 2022.

It was an incredibly rewarding experience. I built valuable relationships and empowered

several new leaders, one of whom continues to impress me with their dedication and

drive. I’m also fortunate to have an amazing new leader who brings fresh perspectives

and energy to the team.

If elected as an Alternate Delegate for IU Convention, I will proudly represent SEIU 503

with dignity and integrity. Through this global collaboration, the IUC offers a crucial

platform to influence the direction of our union for the next four years, and I would be

honored to contribute in this vital role in shaping the work of our union.

I humbly ask for your support in voting for me, Jeri Simons, as an Alternate Delegate in

attending the IU Convention. Thank you

My name is Erik Tallen and I would be humbled to be an alternate delegate to the SEIU International Convention. I have worked for ODHS Child Welfare as an OS2 for almost 2.5 years and have been a Steward for 1.5 years in Sublocal 205. In that time, I’ve become very involved with our Union by completing the Member Leader Development Program and most recently a Member on Campaign as a Field Organizer. During bargaining in 2023, I was recruiting new members, going to Lobby Days, the Picket Captain for my office info picket, and got members hyped at the Capitol Rally in June. I want to make sure SEIU 503 has a strong voice at the International Convention. Our Union needs to focus on Economic Justice and bringing all workers into the fold to fight the forces that seek to divide. We are stronger together! Workers of the World Unite!

I’ve never attended the IU Convention. It would be an honor to represent our Union.

My membership in 503 began in September 2010. I had a new job with the state of Oregon. I wasn’t a manager, but I did schedule and train 25 of my co-workers as part of my job duties. I realize I was new to Oregon employment but there were some practices in my worksite that “just didn’t seem right”. I grabbed a contract and read it cover to cover, highlighting and flagging key articles. My co-workers needed appropriate outdoor clothing to do their jobs and they were having to provide their own. I also felt they had the right to take accrued leave, receive a pay differential for weekends and a mileage reimbursement—things that were their contractually agreed to right which they either weren’t or only partially getting. They needed to be treated fairly and have the equipment to do their jobs. I was their voice and I became a steward in 2012.

I attended my first rally, the “Better Way” Rally, in May 2011. It occurred on a furlough day and we carpooled to Salem from Newport. I wore my favorite “Stand up for Fairness” t-shirt and joined over 3,000 others in a broad sea of purple on the Capitol grounds. That t-shirt has gotten around—presenting at GC conferences and 10 years of walking in the Independence 4th of July Parade with union siblings.

My first 2 steward cases were rewarding wins. One was a sexual harassment and intimidation case, the other was a wrongful termination. I won a full year of backpay for the terminated employee and along with it, forever earned the ire and distain of my agency’s Director. I have been the Chief Steward at ODFW for 11 years and am passing the torch this year.

Early in my Union career, after a term as Asst Director for the ODOT_Coalition, I decided I could support stewards more effectively through the statewide Stewards Committee which I then chaired for 3 terms. The Committee drafted GC resolutions (which were adopted) to support our stewards—to recruit, train, retain and also secure stronger contract language for stewards. I am a CAPE supporter and served as co-Chair for Region 3 on the CAPE Council. I’m also a Labor Candidate School graduate (2013).

Please support my aspiration to be an IU Convention Alternate Delegate.

I am interested in attending as a delegate to the SEIU International Convention. I have been a union member for over 20 years, am a current member leader for the Department of Fish and Wildlife, and serve as a public sector Central Table Bargaining Delegate. This would be my first opportunity to attend and bring back the new skills and information I learn from other members in attendance. I appreciate your consideration for this important role in representing our Union at the convention.

Thanks,

Angela Ward

After serving as Chair of SL218 a couple of years ago, I learned a lot about our union. Where we thrive and where we need some assistance. I chose to use that position to do wonderful new things that I believe have made us more inclusive, transparent, communicative and effective.  I left that role in the hands of a new leadership team that is continuing the tradition of getting things done and bringing fresh new ideas and energy to the roles.

However, I would like to continue my service to my co-workers by running for IU Convention Alternate Delegate. I have worked for the state of Oregon for over 16 years, all of it here in ODHS/OHA. I have served as the facilitator of our Wellness Committee; I have volunteered in my community as a Team Captain and Committee member on a local Relay for Life (Go Santiam Canyon!) And I really believe in leaving things better than I found them.

I would like to bring that energy and enthusiasm to another role for this term and learn more about SEIU International. Ways that the International and our local can work together to benefit all members and not just a select few. To help SEIU503 grow and move beyond the current perspective to a more modern one that will allow us to increase our membership, become more relevant to our members and provide the resources that our members deserve.

As a member led union, WE are the union and our voices need to be heard and listened to. Even if you choose not to vote for me, please vote. Truly every vote counts and YOUR voice matters!

Thank you for your consideration.

Marilou Webb

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” This is a quote by Margaret Mead, an accomplished anthropologist. Though we may fill a meeting hall, those elected to represent workers of many disciplines at the International Convention are just that, a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens.

Over four years ago, I jumped in to learn what SEIU503 was all about, where I fit in and how I could contribute. I am just finishing my second term as director in Josephine County, representing homecare workers. I also served on the bargaining team this past session and am a steward.

I would be honored to represent Homecare and SEIU503 at the International Convention. It would be an enriching experience to meet and work with fellow labor activists and I look forward to sharing ideas on how to strengthen our Union, increase membership and move forward progressively.

It is not by being complacent that we create change and experience victories in labor relations and contracts. Moving forward, I ask for your support in sending this thoughtful, committed citizen to the SEIU International Convention!–Jolene White