MAPE Members Build Collective Power During Statewide Membership Blitz Dozens of members convened at MAPE’s headquarters to connect with future members directly

More than 25 MAPE members gathered at the union’s Shoreview office today for a Statewide Membership Blitz, taking an important step toward building a stronger, more unified union ahead of the next contract negotiations.

The event brought members together to connect with their co-workers, follow up on previous conversations and reach out to prospective members for the first time. Through these conversations, participants are learning what matters most to their co-workers, what they hope to see in the next contract and what questions or concerns they have about joining MAPE.

Building membership is about more than increasing numbers. A strong, engaged membership gives the union greater collective power at the bargaining table and a stronger voice in advocating for the issues that matter to state employees.

“We recognize that we need to build up our membership ahead of our next contract negotiation so we can build as much collective power as possible,” Lauren Siegel, Local 2101 Membership Secretary, said. “This event is great because members are taking the responsibility of reaching out to their co-workers to talk with them about becoming members. It’s good to see everyone engaged and working together.”

The timing of the blitz, one day after the elections, also presents an opportunity to connect with prospective members about the issues affecting state employees, regardless of the election outcome.

“It’s a cool coincidence that this is happening the day after the elections, because regardless of the outcome, we’d have a lot to talk about with prospective members,” Michelle Belmont, a Local 301 member and newly elected Membership Chair for the Organizing Council said. “This event is one of the ways we can help support contract negotiations. We know how important and meaningful membership numbers are, because the only way we’re going to be able to fight for what we deserve this round is if we’re all in this together.”

Beyond growing membership, the event is helping develop the next generation of MAPE leaders. Participants are gaining hands-on experience building relationships, having meaningful conversations and helping co-workers understand the value of union membership.

“This is a great opportunity to train our members to become MAPE leaders,” Belmont said. “Everyone here is learning how to best build relationships with future members. It’s important that we help them visualize what being a member of MAPE will look like, and how that will lead to what they care about being reflected in our contract.”

Ultimately, a stronger union benefits everyone. Every new member adds another voice, another perspective and another opportunity to build solidarity around shared workplace priorities. By engaging co-workers now, MAPE members are laying the groundwork for stronger contract negotiations and a union better equipped to advocate for all state employees.

As the next round of negotiations approaches, today’s blitz serves as a reminder that collective power starts with members reaching out, listening and standing together.