Granholm, Boland & Thomas Fire Up NoVA Volunteers

(Metropolitan Washington Council, AFL-CIO)More than 130 union members from 42 locals representing 25 international unions hit the streets across Northern Virginia Saturday after being pumped up by three inspirational speeches. “Former Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm (photo) wowed the volunteers with an enthusiastic address reminding them that the race for the White House and Senate is vital for all working people, seniors and children,” reports NoVA Labor President Dan Duncan. “Bricklayers President James Boland outlined how important electing Obama and Kaine in Virginia would be for the building and construction trades,” while AFGE Vice President Augusta Thomas recalled firsthand how African Americans and poor people were excluded from voting just 50 years ago because of poll taxes and literacy tests, adding that today's voter identification laws are no different. “Outside may have had a slight chill, but we had the air conditioning cranked because our members were fired up and ready to go after hearing from these leaders," said Duncan. Walks and phone bankscontinue this week at the NoVA Labor office in Annandale. Volunteers are urged to bring acanned or non-perishable food for a food drive aiding Fairfax County public school students. - photo by Joyce Putnam (OPEIU 2)