Member Political Organizer Spotlight: Connie Lewis

Connie Lewis
Hometown: Chicago, IL
SEIU Local 73
Employer: City of Chicago Loop Traffic
Position: Traffic Control

1. Why have you decided to join us in the field?
I worked in Chicago when President Obama was first elected, directing traffic for all of the people coming out to celebrate him. This time I'm excited I get to work for Obama in a more hands on way. I'm honored to work to keep this man in office for eight years. Overcoming all of these obstacles and working to increase the quality living for all of us is very important.

2. What does it mean to you to help President Obama get re-elected?
I feel like I'm being part of history in the making. I'm learning new things and meeting new people. I'm educating the community and if feels good to be a part of this. It's a wonderful thing and a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

3. How important and exciting it is to have a staffer join you in the field to meet the program goals?
I enjoy it because the staffers see hands on what goes on when we're knocking on doors. Sometimes the public asks us to do some crazy things and it takes up a lot of time, having a staffer see this helps us to work through it. They get to see it up close and personal.

4. How tough it is to leave your family? How important it is for our communities and working families to get President Obama elected?
It's tough, but I knew I was doing the right thing. My family stood behind me and said, "Go Mom, you wont have another opportunity to do this." Going home on the weekends to see them helps, but my whole family was so excited for this experience and wouldn't let me pass it up. Their support helps me work through being away from them. Seeing the expression on their face as they learn about the work that I'm doing here; they know that we're fighting for the right side and that's priceless.