Teamsters 856 members from all industries attended the All-Member Training on July 25, 2015 at the Local 856 Union Hall.

Nearly 50 Teamsters 856 members packed the Local’s Union Hall for an all-member training on rights in the workplace last Saturday.

“It was excellent!!” said United Airlines Member Keri Martin via the Local’s Facebook page. “I would recommend that everyone try to make it for the next one!!”

The workshop, presented by Attorneys Caren Sencer and David Rosenfeld from Weinberg, Roger & Rosenfeld, focused on protected leaves, workplace rights afforded to union members, workers’ comp, and members’ rights to concerted activity when it comes to using social media and work e-mail.

“There was so much helpful information,” said new UPS Shop Steward Ula -Latoya Hughes. “I have six pages of notes!”

Hughes also appreciated the relaxed atmosphere of the workshop. “I felt very comfortable asking questions, and participating in the discussion,” she said. “It wasn’t intimidating at all.”

The workshop was Pedro Hernandez’s first union member training. “Our old union never had anything like this for us,” the Mount Diablo Unified School District member said. Mount Diablo School District members left their previous association to become Teamsters 856 members last year.

“I can’t wait to go back to work and share this information with my co-workers,” he continued.

As the father of a 4-year-old, Hernandez was particularly interested in kin care laws. “It’s really valuable to know that certain time off is protected to take care of my family,” he said.

Teamsters in attendance included members from every industry covered by the Local, including public sector, airline, hotel, car rental, benefit administration and healthcare.

“An educated membership is one of the most powerful tools we have as a union,” said Teamsters 856 Principal Officer Peter Finn. “It’s impressive and inspiring that our members dedicated their Saturday morning to learn more about protecting and standing up for their rights in the workplace,” he said.

San Francisco Fairmont Shop Steward Geoffrey Brown also used the Teamsters 856 Facebook page to praise the workshop. “A wealth of information,” he commented. “Thanks to our members and leadership!”

Check out more photos from the day on the Teamsters 856 Facebook page.
(And don’t forget to “like” us while you’re there!)