Lobby Day Planning Summit kicks off high interest in Capitol meetings with legislators

Political Council members are planning the largest Lobby Day MAPE has seen in its history. Following the recent Lobby Day Planning Summit, more than 330 members have already signed up to attend Lobby Day at the Capitol on March 6. “The high energy around it is a natural extension of the grassroots organizing taking place in our union this year. Our members are more engaged about fighting for the things they want,” Political Council Chair John Ferrara said. “Lobby Day allows us to build up our strength to create networks that are able to take action. The more our members are comfortable and willing to talk to their legislators, regardless of political party, it will be better for our union.”  

Hundreds of members will gather at the Capitol to lobby legislators on MAPE’s legislative priorities. Members will continue to fight for sustainable agency funding to safeguard the programs Minnesotans require and other issues, as well as ensure there are enough worker resources for meaningful cost-of-living adjustments, fair and safe working conditions and a secure retirement.  

For the first time, members from all 39 MAPE locals will be participating in Lobby Day this year, and more than 30 locals have increased participation from last year. “Everyone has been putting in a lot of hard work, and Region 9 Contract Action Team Leader  Meridith Richmond is doing outstanding work leveraging the Contract Action Teams,” Ferrara added.   

Please register by Feb. 21 to assist staff as they set up appointments with elected officials and plan for adequate space.