Member Involvement

What is COPE?

What Does COPE Stand for? COPE is an acronym for the Committee on Political Education. It is our union's voluntary bi-partisan Political Action Committee used for political and legislative activities. We hold politicians accountable at every level of government, and help our union build the political power to win strong contracts, better benefits and pass laws to protect our jobs.

By law, our union cannot use our union dues for political contributions or activities.

Why Is SEIU Involved in Politics?
Many factors that influence our members' conditions of employment are decided by elected officials. To do an effective job in collective bargaining, SEIU Healthcare Michigan must be involved in electing candidates to school boards, city councils, county commissions, Governor, State Legislature, President, and Congress, who value, who believe in, and who will stand up for issues important to our members at the decision making table.

How is the Money Used?
All COPE money goes into SEIU's Political Account for use in local, state, and federal activities only. It does not become part of the general treasury. A portion goes to the SEIU federal PAC at the International office for use in Congressional or U.S. Senate races. COPE money is used not only for contributions to candidates, but also voter registration efforts, lobbying, and get-out-the-vote efforts. Funds are also used to introduce and pass legislation that protects SEIU members and their families.

Who Does SEIU Support?
SEIU Healthcare Michigan supports pro-SEIU, pro-worker candidates in local, state and federal election campaigns. SEIU Healthcare Michigan is bi-partisan and supports both Republicans and Democrats who support our issues.

BECOME A COPE MEMEBER! 

Get Involved: Become a Member Political Organizer

What does it mean to be an MPO?

MPOs are SEIU members willing to volunteer to ensure that workers have a voice on the job and a voice in politics.

MPO Eva Martinez, Janitor
SEIU Local 105, Denver, CO

People in my union believe we can win. Our last contract won the highest wage we’ve had and the chance to get health coverage for our families. By being active in politics, we won new allies in the legislature who pay attention to our concerns. To be active in creating a better life is a great feeling, and it makes an incredible difference.

MPOs take action at the worksite, in our neighborhoods, on the phones, and via e-mail to:

• Educate members and their families
• Register members to vote
• Lobby politicians on our issues
• Raise COPE funds
• Build community coalitions
• Recruit volunteers
• Get out the vote on Election Day

Members are the driving force in SEIU. Winning requires membership involvement at worksites, in the legislatures and city halls, and in organizing campaigns across North America.

Winning means better wages for workers and health benefits for us and our families. It means laws and policies that respect and reward work, protect seniors, and provide our children wider opportunities. It means overcoming injustices today and having a say in shaping the future.

America's working families need it. Union members demand it. And SEIU is determined to have it. The best is yet to come.

MPO Application

Hold Politicians Accountable