Strength in Numbers

My fellow Custody Assistants, I do not think anyone could have anticipated the events that have transpired over the last six months surrounding the PPOA election for Custody Assistant representative. An unprecedented tie and a devastating wildfire, both unfathomable reasons for this prolonged process. But dare I say, that was the easy part. With the expiration of our current contract on the horizon, there really has been very limited time for an adjustment period.

As much as I feel like the freshman on the varsity team, I know I have a lot to learn, but I am ready to hit the ground running. I cannot express how appreciative I am for every kind word of congratulations, encouragement, support and advice from my partners. I started this journey with a vision of what I want to build and achieve for current and future Custody Assistants, and never with the intention of doing it alone.

With that said, I want to discuss what I want the foundation of the next two years and beyond to be: strength in numbers. Custody Assistants are the largest classification in the 621 bargaining unit. I believe we hold more power than anyone is willing to acknowledge, and I want to tap everyone of you as a potential resource. If Custody Assistants are anything, they are a wealth of knowledge and experience. But what good are either of those if they are not shared for the benefit of your peers? I need to foster a free flow of information among us — both from me to you and vice versa. That starts with boots on the ground.

I cannot emphasize enough the importance of your involvement. We are all capable of being a part of the solution by becoming a PPOA delegate. Once I start making my rounds to facilities, I am going to call on you, my partners, to aid me in my efforts. I cannot be everywhere at once, so I need you to be my eyes and ears. I can only inquire and act on your behalf when I am made aware of your concerns. As delegates, I intend to utilize you as an information highway to and from units of assignment. Custody, courts, stations and specialized units are all facing different issues and require equal representation among us. Therefore, personnel from each unit needs to step up because I need to hear from all of you. Perhaps, in the past, there has been a misperception of what being a delegate entails. It is not an all-consuming commitment, with only one meeting every three months. The key role is to be a source of information for your peers. Email info@PPOA.com with your name, employee number and expressed interest in becoming a delegate.

Now, more than ever, it is crucial that we are all well informed. In a time where misinformation runs rampant, we all need to utilize critical reasoning prior to sharing what we’ve heard. Please ask questions — starting with who the source is and assessing the likelihood of this person having credible information. If it does not sound right, chances are it is not true. There are too many people out there fearmongering for the sake of wreaking havoc. Let’s not panic until it is time to panic. I believe in transparency, and when something pertinent to the well-being of Custody Assistants comes up, I will tell you. I know I am looking at a very steep, uphill battle. But with your support and assistance, I know only good things are to come.