IFT Lobby Day 2008

April 30th was the annual IFT Lobby Day in Springfield. The morning began with a briefing from IFT leadership. Then, Senate Bill 2288 sponsor Senator James Meeks addressed the crowd about the importance of speaking with the legislators about the passage of this bill. Senator Meeks also stressed that we ask our senators and representatives exactly where they stand on school funding reform and making education a priority in the state.

Local president Kathy Setlak, treasurer Sue Mirabella, Orland Park council vp Sandy Kulak and I met with Senators Maloney and Crotty as well as with Representatives McCarthy and Joyce. We discussed a variety of important educational issues that our members face. Many Local 943 retirees also spent the day in Springfield meeting with legislators.

Putting a face, a voice, a story to the issues that are prevalent today in the state of Illinois is crucial to the success of having legislators respond to the constituents they represent. I urge you to let your voice be heard. You can contact your representative and senator via email, phone, letter or through a meeting at their district office. And don’t forget, there’s always IFT Lobby Day 2009!

Deneen Pajeau Local 943 vice-president