WSN Women in Leadership Event Inspires

Last weekend, over 50 members attended the 7th Women & Unions International Speaker Series organized by the IFPTE Women’s Solidarity Network. The program featured women on the IFPTE Executive Council, who came together to share their experiences, challenges, and vision for keeping our union and the labor movement strong. 

Gay Henson, IFPTE Secretary-Treasurer, took the opportunity to highlight an important milestone indicating “right now, for the first time ever, we have 7 women on the IFPTE Board out of 14 [seats].” The women who make-up this leadership include:  

1.       Katie Barrows, President, Local 70

2.       Gay Henson, Secretary-Treasurer, IFPTE

3.       Frances Hsieh, Vice President for Legislative & Political Action, Local 21

4.       Michelle Johnston, President, Local 160

5.       Renae McKenzie, Labor Relations Specialist, Local 1937

6.       Denise Robinson, President, Local 400

7.       Jamie Uyeunten, President, Local 121

Each speaker introduced themselves, providing a glimpse into how they got involved. Laurie Reid, Local 160’s Secretary-Treasurer, moderated the discussion asking our leaders where they see opportunities for increasing equity within our union and the broader labor movement, how to promote the increased participation of women, and what we can do to support women and other marginalized groups within our union.

“The session completely exceeded my expectations…. Our Executive Council is in great hands,” said Tracy Miller from Local 160 and Chair of the WSN Planning Committee. Dede Chance, another WSN Planning Committee member from Local 12 said, “it was so good for my soul!” The discussion was powerful packed with depth and sincerity. Many comments shared by participants during the program expressed an appreciation for the groundwork laid by the speakers and felt reinvigorated to carry on in their union work and organizing.   

The next Women & Unions International Speaker Series will take place Spring 2022. Stay connected to the WSN by joining the network! If you are interested in getting involved with the WSN Planning Group, please email us at womensnetwork@ifpte.org.  

Watch the recorded event here.

L-R: Laurie Reid, Frances Hsieh, Gay Henson, Denise Robinson, Jamie Uyeunten, Michelle Johnston, Renae McKenzie, Katie Barrows