IAFF President Completes California Station Tour
California Professional Firefighters members across California rolled out the welcome mat when IAFF General President Harold Schaitberger and CPF President Lou Paulson embarked upon their four-day station tour across the state.
The pair traveled nearly 800 miles, making a dozen stops at 11 different locations in late September.
Hundreds of firefighters gathered across kitchen tables and at backyard barbecues to share their concerns about their profession, their future and their family's future.
"It was a great opportunity to give Harold Schaitberger a snapshot of what our firefighters are currently facing," said Paulson. "By that same token, it was also a good forum to update members about what their state and national unions are doing to help build a stronger future for firefighters and their families."
General President Schaitberger updated locals on IAFF's efforts to secure SAFER Act funding, urging local departments to apply for SAFER grants. He also reminded members of how their unity has helped build the strength of the firefighter image in California and around the country.
One question that came up time and again was regarding the governor's race. This November's election, particularly the governor's race, will determine the future course of our profession. Because of his long record of support for firefighter issues, and the threat to those issues posed by his opponent, IAFF and California Professional Firefighters have endorsed Jerry Brown for governor.
"As your union, it's not our job to tell you who to vote for. But it is our job to tell you how this election will affect your collective bargaining rights, your retirement security, your health and safety protections," said Schaitberger.
At evening barbecues in Sacramento, San Luis Obispo and Los Angeles, Schaitberger and Paulson urged members to be as active as possible in the November election. "It's about more than just voting," said Paulson. "Make some phone calls, walk some precincts and talk to your friends and neighbors about what's at stake for all working people this November."