SEIU Shows Flag for Occupy DC

(Metropolitan Washington Council, AFL-CIO)In the latest show of labor support for Occupy DC, a contingent of SEIU staffers marched down from the union’s Dupont Circle headquarters last Thursday. Chanting “We are the 99 percent” and carrying SEIU flags and bags of warm coats to donate to occupiers, the SEIU delegation marched into McPherson Square and did a brief “mic check” to announce SEIU’s support for the occupation. Occupiers said the gesture was appreciated. “SEIU came down today to support us with supplies to keep us warm in the winter” said one occupier. “It’s a good support toward our effort,” said another, “I respect the fact that they came out.” Jon Youngdahl, SEIU Chief of Staff, explained that “SEIU wanted to express thanks for what they [occupiers] have been doing.” Stressing the need for solidarity between the labor movement and the occupy movement, Youngdahl said “there’s a lot we can learn from each other… we need to work together on how to change the country.” The SEIU delegation spent their lunch hour at Occupy DC, exploring the camp and getting to know occupiers. As they left, staff members could be heard making pledges to bring more donations and continue their support. NOTE: look for a local labor wish list from occupy on the Council’s website soon. - report by Julia Kann, photos by Jerry Nelson (www.JourneyAmerica.org)