Last week, we heard from Jameson — a longtime union organizer with stories, lessons, and a powerful reminder that workers are stronger together.
Jameson grew up in Michigan in a union family. His dad worked in the auto industry and was a proud member of the UAW. That early exposure taught him about the power of unions, and how they gave a voice to workers like his dad.
When Jameson started his career in telecommunications, he joined CWA Local 4652. After recognizing the need for better safety protocols at his company, he decided to get more involved in union leadership. He ran for office and became a steward, then a chief steward, eventually serving as the union Vice President. What started as concern over workplace safety turned into years of organizing, advocating, and empowering fellow workers.
One analogy he shared that really stuck with us:
“Try to break one chopstick, see how easily it breaks. Now try to break 5 at a time. Now 10. Now 20. The more people you have, the stronger you are.”
Jameson also reminded us how many of the things we take for granted today came from organized labor:
“Labor laws, child labor laws, the 40-hour work week, overtime pay… all brought to you by the union.”
Whether you’re strongly pro-union, skeptical, or just curious to learn more, conversations like this are exactly what Politics in the Park is about: neighbors coming together to share experiences, perspectives, and ideas in a respectful space. Thank you Jameson for being part of this conversation!
What do you think unions mean for workers today? Have unions impacted your life or family in any way?