Members are concerned with the recent work environment challenges at the Maryland Department of Health. Bedbugs were reported to be in the building and members are worried about the many health challenges that presents. In response, MPEC held a union meeting to update members on what we have heard from the state as well as to hear from members what they are experiencing.
Maryland Professional Employees Council (MPEC) is strong at the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). To kick off the month of August, the union hosted a Barbeque Social for members to learn more about the union and enjoy delicious BBQ during their lunch break. Given the great member density at the worksite, turnout was very good.
The power of the MPEC is on the rise. One of the strongest worksites of the union is the Maryland Department of Environment (MDE). MPEC Vice President Andrea Buie is at the work site and has done a yeoman’s work to increase membership and engagement at the location.
Maryland Professional Employees Council (MPEC) hosted two lunch and learns at the Glen Burnie MVA and the Department of Labor Licensing and Regulations. Shop stewards Davene Johnson (Glen Burnie) and Michelle Roberts (DLLR) did a great job turning out members to hear what AFT-Maryland organizer Aaron Ray had to share.
Members were fired up and ready to go at the MPEC Steward Training on Thursday May 30, 2019. The training, held in Baltimore, brought together stewards from across a variety of agencies for an intensive training of how to best serve members of the union on the job. Michael Spiller of the Office and Professional Employees International Union (OPEIU) was the lead facilitator during the training.
The 2018 Janus v. AFSCME Supreme Court decision was a blow against organized labor and public sector unions in particular. While anti-union advocates may have thought they struck a death knell against labor, the energy from the MPEC annual member meeting suggests the Janus decision may have only awakened a sleeping giant.