Alan Shanahan

At the 42nd AFSCME International Convention in Las Vegas, I was elected overwhelmingly with 94% of vote, as one of two California International Vice-Presidents.

​

My roots and involvement in Labor dates back many years and was heavily influenced by my father, who is also a member of an AFSCME Local in California. My family emigrated from Ireland in the early 70's and I became the first generation American in our family. I have carried with me the social and economic values of my Irish heritage to my Local, where I am the Executive President and have been since 2013. My home is a Union household. I have been an AFSCME card carrying member for over twelve years, and an officer for seven of those years. My wife Jenny is a Special Education Teacher and member of CTA for nearly ten years now. Our two children, Kyleigh, 13, and Aidan, 10, have also learned throughout their lives the importance of Unionism. They have participated at work actions, picketing and other Union activities.  In my spare time, I teach active and retired military personnel to fly airplanes at March Air Reserve Base in Riverside, Ca and also volunteer with Civil Air Patrol, an Auxiliary of the Air Force which is tasked with Search and Rescue, Counterdrug, Disaster Recovery and other functions.

 

I believe that by working my way up through the ranks and taking on progressively more complex and responsible roles, I have developed a wellrounded and indepth understanding of our Union, from rank and file to the International level. I believe in empowerment at the Local level: attention to our members, gaining and maintaining their trust, transparency, adequate representation, continual internal and external organizing and political advocacy. These are the keys to Strengthening and Growing our Locals, Councils and Union!

 

I will bring greater representation of California members to D.C. I will ensure that all Locals and Councils in California receive representation they deserve. Beginning in 2014, my Local began attending International Executive Board meetings in order for us to gain a better understanding of who was making the decisions; how they were voting and why decisions were being made that had an impact on us at the Local level.

 

When I am elected IVP, I commit to remaining in continual contact with the Councils, Locals and members throughout the State. I will communicate with you on upcoming topics and decisions that are before the International Board; this will happen before the meetings, not after the fact! I will also ensure that you receive reports after the meetings so that you Council and Local can stay informed of the decisions at the International level. I also commit to you that my votes at the International Board will reflect the desires and best interests of all members in California, not just a few.

 

I thank you for taking the time to learn more about my commitment to AFSCME members in California. If my beliefs and commitments align with yours and/or your Council or Local, please email me at Alan@AlanForIVP.com as I would like to take the time to meet with you and your members in order to earn your endorsement.

 

For a printable flyer click here!