In 2019, several women members of ESC Local 20 decided to form a Committee to address the unique issues that women face in the workforce and the labor movement. The ESC Women’s Committee was formally established and approved by ESC’s Executive Board in 2020, and we quickly set to work identifying how the Committee can promote women’s participation, perspectives, and concerns in our workplaces, our communities, and our Union. Bringing a sharp focus to issues that impact the lives of working women will strengthen our union and benefit all members of ESC Local 20 and our communities. Fairness and equality are key principles that guide the work of ESC Local 20, and we strive for a broad application of these principles for all our members, both inside and outside the workplace.
The Committee Leadership team meets quarterly, and our first general membership meeting occurred on October 12th, 2021. We plan to hold more general membership meetings in the future, so please check back often for updates! We believe the Women’s Committee is a great opportunity for the members of ESC Local 20 to participate and bring their voices and experiences directly to the Union.
2024 Women’s Committee Meeting
Women’s Committee Leadership
Chair: Joan Mah, Optometry Unit
Vice Chair: Caitlin Kniazewycz, PG&E Unit
Members:
Deb Deveno, Optometry Unit
Lisa Rocha, Optometry Unit
Marge Braasch, Medical Professional Unit
Sandra Prado-Nava, Medical Professional Unit
Lindsay Gallinger, PG&E Unit
Amanda Velasco, PG&E Unit
Elizabeth Kristen, Government, Administrative, and Technical Unit
Resources
IFPTE Women’s Solidarity Network
