Orange County Employees Association Celebrates Labor Day, Emphasizes Worker Advocacy and Political Engagement
The Orange County Employees Association (OCEA) is celebrating Labor Day by acknowledging the essential public services provided by its members and reflecting on the historical achievements of the labor movement. Charles Barfield, OCEA General Manager, highlighted that benefits such as the eight-hour workday, pensions, and the right to speak up at work were secured through worker organization and solidarity, not granted by employers. He noted OCEA's recent successes in Orange County, including helping to elect a worker-friendly majority to the Board of Supervisors and securing contract improvements for county, court, and city employees. Barfield also pointed out that a significant number of American workers would join a union if given the opportunity, underscoring the ongoing relevance and importance of labor unions in advocating for working families. The message emphasizes that while political donors spend billions, unions possess the collective power of their members.
