I believe that President Obama started the country on a path that will benefit the people. It has been a long, slow recovery from the economic fall-out of 2008, and there is more work to be done. While things are slowly changing, I think the President truly deserves another four years to accomplish what he originally set out to do for the betterment of all of us. That's why I'm getting involved in politics this year through my union, to make sure that we re-elect President Obama.
I would say to union members who have not volunteered on the Obama campaign yet --come on out and join with your other sisters and brothers, meet others just like you. Come out and see and experience more of your union, more than just what's going on in your shop. Since becoming part of the SEIU Member Political Organizer program, I've learned just that. I've learned that there's more going on behind the scenes than what we see on TV and that each of us has a voice that can truly matter if we simply step out of our comfort zones and choose to get involved.
Canvassing has provided me opportunities to meet many people and share thoughts about where we are heading as a nation. One day, I met a gentleman in the suburbs, who was working in his yard. He was nice enough to take the time to answer questions about the upcoming election and share his thoughts. He was very pleasant and asked me to share my thoughts as well. Even though we had different opinions on the election and the path for our country, he applauded me for the work I was doing in the community. He expressed that it was refreshing to see "young" people like myself trying to make a difference and advocating for what I believe in. I had to laugh later because what he didn't know is that I'm almost 50! I'm 47 and this is my first experience doing a lost time program with my Union. I've really loved this experience and I'd love to work on another project with my Union.
Shanese Alexander is a member of SEIU 1199WKO and works as a State Tested Nursing Assisted (STNA) at the Visiting Nurse Association of Ohio.
