PROTEC17 - Racial Justice

PROTEC17 is committed to being an anti-racist organization

PROTEC17 unequivocally supports fairness, equity, and opportunity for all working people, therefore we cannot be complicit in perpetuating systemic racism. We stand alongside members and community leaders who identify as Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) as we support demands for racial and economic justice, and a world in which we can all be safe and healthy. We commit to action and sustainable change through the work we do and the power we have as an organization.

There is no economic justice without racial justice

A statement by PROTEC17 Executive Director Karen Estevenin, from the Spring/Summer 2020 issue of Insight magazine

We are in the middle of a pandemic and the beginning of a deep recession. At the same time, streets across our country are erupting in the wake of George Floyd’s murder. The stark cover of this issue of Insight magazine reflects the tenor of this moment: anguish, outrage, and clarity. Economic justice does not exist without racial justice. This is nothing new. We are entrenched in over 400 years of systemic racism. Also, in this moment is an undercurrent of hope and possibility – but we must take action now.

PROTEC17 is working to undo oppression in our workplaces and beyond

A statement from the PROTEC17 Executive Board

Advancing racial equity was established by our union as a strategic priority last year. Our resolve to pursue an end to systemic racism in solidarity with BIPOC communities has been strengthened and clarified in the midst of our current national reckoning. We are committed to a world in which all union members can be healthy, safe, and thrive, and know that we can only get there together.

Labor and PROTEC17 condemn anti-Asian violence and xenophobia

PROTEC17 stands alongside our Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) members and communities to condemn racism in all forms in the wake of rising anti-Asian violence and xenophobia.

PROTEC17 White-Bodied Affinity Group

Dismantling racism is the work of everyone – but especially of white people. Join your fellow white-bodied PROTEC17 leaders in this group to actively work towards dismantling white supremacy, understanding our roots, patterns of dominance, situations of conflict, accountability, and much more. No matter where you are on your racial equity journey, you will be strengthened and challenged to take another step forward. Help make our union stronger by engaging in this crucial work with us. For more information, please contact Executive Director Karen Estevenin ()

PROTEC17 BIPOC Affinity Group

This affinity group is for PROTEC17 members who identify as Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) to connect, learn, share, provide a support network, and increase solidarity. The needs and priorities of this group will evolve as needed. If you identify as BIPOC and would like to join, please contact PROTEC17 Union Representative Youssef El Hamawi ().