On June 10, the United Nurses Associations of California/Union of Health Care Professionals was honored by the Orange County Labor Federation at their 11th Annual Solidarity Leadership Awards Dinner with the Legislative and Political Organizing Union Award. Specifically, UNAC/UHCP’s members were recognized for their activity in legislative advocacy, election participation and supporting California’s Labor Movement. Our work on SB 1111, the bill that would have put Registered Nurses’ addresses on the Internet, our union’s strong presence in Wisconsin in March, and our support of the Costa Mesa City Employees were praised. Finally, our political programs to influence organizing campaigns in Southern California and support other labor organizations in their efforts to organize and support employees were decorated.

“UNAC/UHCP’s members work on the frontlines of health care and understand how important it is to advance laws and policies that improve their ability to deliver high quality care,” said the Orange County Labor Federation. State Assembly Members Jose Solorio, Betty T. Yee, and Tony Mendoza, California State Board of Equalization Chairman Jerome Horton, US Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez, and California State Controller John Chiang all presented UNAC/UHCP with certificates of accomplishment in celebration of the award.

“It’s an honor just to be nominated,” quipped UNAC/UHCP State Secretary Barbara Blake before becoming earnest. “Truly, this award goes to our members, who walked the precincts, phone banked voters, participated in PEOPLE drives, attended rallies, and took on elected roles or volunteered at their local affiliates. They already have demanding, heroic jobs, and that they go beyond that for the good of the labor community should be an inspiration to everyone.”