Last Saturday, May 4th, was the 2024 SEIU Local 1021 Education Summit. Classified professionals representing K-12 and community college districts from across Northern California gathered at the Sunrise Event Center in Vacaville to gain new skills, get invigorated for upcoming fights, share knowledge with other SEIU 1021 members, and have a little fun!

SEIU 1021 Education Industry Chair Maria Salazar-Colón and SEIU 1021 President Theresa Rutherford kicked off the event. Then California State Superintendent Tony Thurmond spoke to members over Zoom, sharing his personal story and reaffirming his commitment to stand up for the rights of classified professionals.

“This event is crucial to staying connected with each other and continuing to build solidarity and collective power,” said SEIU 1021 Education Industry Chair Maria Salazar-Colón. “With the budget deficit we are facing, it’s even more important that members are educated, inspired, and energized to keep fighting. If history has shown us anything, budget cuts often dramatically impact our schools. We have repeatedly proven that we are stronger together, and I am grateful to every member who attended on Saturday for showing up for themselves and their fellow classified professionals.”

After the first round of informative and engaging workshops, members sat down for a hot lunch and were treated to a union-themed game of Jeopardy with exciting prizes.

Later in the afternoon, members received more support from elected officials, with Assemblymember Liz Ortega’s video expressing her gratitude for and support of classified professionals. 

Senator Aisha Wahab attended the event to speak in person and affirm her solidarity with classified professionals through her fight for housing for all.

Our workshops, designed to foster unity and solidarity, were a testament to the strength and resilience of our community. From climate justice to the importance of politics in building power, each session was a powerful reminder of our collective strength and shared values.

Members broke bread with each other, cheered, laughed, and walked away with new information and a renewed sense of solidarity.

We are already counting down until next year…