One of the most persistent lines from admin about @geo3550’s decision to reject their (terrible) offer is that the membership chose to strike against the recommendation of GEO leadership. This repeated line is, frankly, offensive and inaccurate.

First, “leadership” did not issue a universal recommendation because the leadership had differing opinions. Our president (the wonderful and hard-working Sumeet) recommended ending the strike bc he feared momentum was slowing down and UM’s threats of retaliation had teeth.

That was his analysis of the situation. When he made his recommendation, he was also crystal clear that it was JUST his and membership had every right not to listen to him. GEO leaders have repeatedly emphasized that the voices of rank & file members matter as much as leadership.

Moreover, other leaders within GEO (such as the VP) spoke up in favor of continuing the strike. There was not a universal consensus amongst the leadership. Something that, again, was emphasized repeatedly throughout the meeting.

So this line that “leadership” recommended we accept the offer is, at best, a partial truth. And it’s constant repetition is meant to imply that membership made a foolish mistake in not listening to leadership. It’s condescending, saying we don’t know what’s best for ourselves.

Moreover, when the membership overwhelmingly voted to reject the offer, our president wholeheartedly embraced that decision and dedicated himself with just as much energy and effort to keeping the strike going.

It was also clear at yesterday’s meeting that he was thrilled to have underestimated our momentum and extremely excited that our strike was going stronger than ever. “Leadership” (this time actually unanimously) has recommended continuing the strike.

But even if they didn’t, we are not a top-down organization. Membership is empowered and encouraged to make our own decisions. And when a decision is made, we ALL stand together in that decision. Because that’s the power of a union.