In light of the recent cases of COVID-19 in the Bay Area, we are taking every precaution as a union to protect the health and safety of our members, as well as the public we serve. To minimize risk of exposure and slow the spread of the virus, the San Francisco Department of Health is advising the public to avoid large gatherings of people.
In accordance, we are working on rescheduling some of our upcoming events. This includes our March 21st delegate assembly.
This decision was not taken lightly. Our delegate assemblies are the bedrock of our democracy and rare opportunities to come together from across our chapters to meet one another and build a stronger union.
Given the uncertainty of developments around COVID-19, we cannot be sure how soon we will be able to safely resume large gatherings. We will be working to plan a new date and venue for our delegate assembly and will communicate with you as soon as we know more.
This situation brings into stark relief the importance of our commitment to fully funding public services. Many of our members and union siblings are either on the frontline of managing this emergency or are themselves vulnerable to its worst impacts.
As union members we are also reminded of the power of solidarity. Stopping this virus requires collective action, and an understanding that our fates as individuals — public workers and residents alike — are connected and the same.
Thank you everyone for your patience, empathy, and strength in navigating through these challenging times with Local 21.
In Solidarity,
Gus Vallejo
IFPTE Local 21
