VSEA Board of Trustees Issues Resolution – On Member Engagement and Democratic Values

WHEREAS the Vermont State Employees’ Association (VSEA) exists to represent and defend the interests of working people and to promote the wellbeing of Vermont workers, their families, and the communities they serve; and

WHEREAS VSEA members are committed to the values of integrity, truth, fairness, compassion, and public service that sustain a democratic society; and

WHEREAS, VSEA has affirmed its commitment to science, responsible public policy, and practices that support a safe and sustainable future for Vermonters; and

WHEREAS VSEA members are committed to protecting the needs of Vermonters for clean air, clean water, food, housing, health care, education, and justice for all; and

WHEREAS the strength of the labor movement depends upon the engagement, solidarity, and civic participation of its members and chapters;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Vermont State Employees’ Association encourages chapters and members to meet, discuss, and prepare—within their abilities—to act collectively in defense of workers’ rights and in support of decency, kindness, truth, and mutual care; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that VSEA encourages its members and chapters to engage in civil discourse and freely assemble in furtherance of the principles identified above; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that any activities undertaken pursuant to this resolution shall comply with applicable law, including the strike prohibitions contained in the State Employees Labor Relations Act (3 V.S.A.

§ 903(b)) and the Judicial Employees Labor Relations Act (3 V.S.A. § 1012(b)).

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Board of Trustees directs the Executive Director to distribute this resolution to the VSEA membership via electronic mail.