Check out stories and quotes from first-hand union lobbyists here.
Hear stories and quotes from union activists who have come to lobby with Virginia AFL-CIO.
Roger Moore
IATSE 285
How was your lobby experience?
“Great experience…the level of positivity today was 100% difference than last year with the Republicans in control. Nice to have so many pro-labor politicians.”
Why did you decide to come lobby on behalf of your union?
“I want to be a positive force for change in my community.”
What would you say about lobbying to someone who is on the fence about lobbying or its importance to unions?
“Be active. Be involved. Be seen.”
Luke McCann
USW 8888
How was your lobby experience?
“This was my first-time lobbying, and it was an interesting learning experience. While I didn’t get much time with the Delegate, I did learn about how these encounters take place and especially the importance of personal connection and being on message.”
Why did you decide to come lobby on behalf of your union?
“I want to be a positive force for change in my community.”
What would you say about lobbying to someone who is on the fence about lobbying or its importance to unions?
“Lobbying and unions are the loudest, most direct way to have your voice heard and amplified outside of voting.”
Janet Wainwright
UFCW 400
How was your lobby experience?
“Enjoyed it and was glad to see the legislators that we helped during this election and that they are still on board with workers."
What would you say about lobbying to someone who is on the fence about lobbying or its importance to unions?
Cliff Carlton
WVLF; USW; VARA
How was your lobby experience?
“I have lobbied more than a few times! This year was much, much better than years past."
Why did you decide to come lobby on behalf of your union?
What was the highlight of your time at the General Assembly?
“Working with my union brothers and sisters and leaders because numbers matter and our voice will be heard.”
“We need changed. Our state needs to start looking out for workers more than businesses, without us, there would be no business.”
"We do make a difference, get involved."
LaWanda Carter
ILA 1248
How was your lobby experience?
"Today, was the first time that I lobbied by myself. I learned how to track a bill before you go into a meeeting with a legislator that day. I recommend that you be yourself and inform yourself on the issues before you present to a legislator; also, speak clear and make eye contact when talking with them."
Why did you decide to come lobby on behalf of your union?
“I wanted to learn more in a smaller setting outside of the Labor 2020 Legislative Conference. Also, right to work law is affecting my family, and I want to see change.”
Mike Spraker
VA State UAW CAP Local 2069
Why did you decide to come lobby on behalf of your union?
“It’s our duty. Speak up and be heard.”
What was the highlight of your time at the General Assembly?
“It’s our duty. Speak up and be heard.”
“Do it! Your delegates and senators need to hear from you!”
What would you say about lobbying to someone who is on the fence about lobbying or its importance to unions?
Hannah Long
CWA 2204
What would you say about lobbying to someone who is on the fence about lobbying or its importance to unions?
“You can’t expect things to change themselves, you have to go out [and] do the work to make change happen.”
Why did you decide to come lobby on behalf of your union?
“New experiences and opportunity to help my fellow Virginians.”