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August 2026

From the President 

Jacqui Cain

Labor Day is often considered the unofficial “end of summer.” For those of us in the labor movement, it is also a time to celebrate our solidarity and resolve for the work that lies ahead. As education workers, many of us have been on site all summer, or have already begun preparing for the next academic year, whether that’s at an elementary school or at one of our colleges, but Labor Day still feels like it marks a new start.

Over the past few months, we have met in different spaces and with different purposes. For myself, attending my first National Convention

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August 2026

Celebrate Labor Day!

There are so many celebrations - find one near you!

From the Thurston-Lewis-Mason Central Labor Council: Labor Day Celebration

Monday, September 7th, 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM 

Join the Thurston - Lewis - Mason Central Labor Council for a Labor Day celebration at the VR Lee Building in Chehalis! 

Join us to meet your fellow workers in Thurston, Lewis and Mason Counties, enjoy food, games, connection, solidarity, and to find out about your rights! 

This event is free, but donations to our local food bank are welcomed. 

We're looking forward to seeing you on Labor Day! 

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August 2026

Welcome Back, James To!

By Cortney Marabetta, Communications Specialist

James To served as AFT Washington’s first Operations Manager from 2018-2022. In July he rejoined our team, returning to the role. His labor background started in grocery retail as a member of UFCW 3000 for 15 years. He moved into the nonprofit sector as a program manager and later Finance and Operations Director for a labor-founded leadership development organization. From there, James returned to UFCW 3000 as Benefits Director, helping members access and troubleshoot their health and pension benefits. He has

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