Democracy in Action: NYSNA’s First Virtual Convention

deMocracy iN actioN

nYsna’s firsT VirTual conVenTion

During the first two months of the pandemic NYSNA’s Board of Directors met weekly, and since then every two weeks, to help coordinate the union’s response to this unprecedented challenge.

A central goal for our statewide leaders was continuing to put rank-and-file members at the center of our union work and to preserve democratic debate and decision-making in these unprecedented times.

Hosting our annual convention virtually was a top priority. And the virtual platform provided the perfect opportunity to expanded education and training on the overlapping crises we’re facing—from the CoVID-19 pandemic, to a massive economic collapse, to the country’s long overdue racial reckoning.

exTensiVe eDucaTion ProGram

In the five weeks prior to our first virtual convention we held 47 workshops attended by 633 members, covering everything from a clinical review of CoVID-19, including the multi-system nature of the disease and best practices for treatment, to understanding why promoting racial justice is key to building a strong union, to identifying strategies for building NYSNSA’s political power in New York and beyond.

NYSNA leaders Kelley Cabrera, Aretha Morgan, Patricia Armand, Dee Lacey, and Lenore Granich-Berghela join Executive Director Pat Kane to discuss their experiences on the frontlines. huGe TurnouT for conVenTion

on october 20, 480 elected convention delegates and 352 guests participated in NYSNA’s first virtual convention. In addition to passing proposed bylaw changes, and addressing resolutions and other convention business, NYSNA leaders were able to share their experiences on the frontlines, honor our colleagues taken by CoVID-19, and hear tributes from elected leaders, honoring our professionalism and commitment throughout the pandemic.

nYSnA’s Virtual convention by the numbers

47 workshops attended by 633 members 480 delegates participating on october 20th

352 guests and observers in attendance

Clockwise from top left: NYSNA First Vice President Karine Raymond reports via Zoom on our campaign for PPE and proper infection controls. NYSNA Treasurer Nancy Hagans presents a resolution promoting racial justice. NYSNA President Judy Sheridan-Gonzalez confers with the convention producer during a commercial break. NYSNA Deputy Director Nancy Kaleda moves speakers “on stage” during the business meeting. The Stanford Talisman chorus virtually performs “Lift Every Voice and Sing”. NYSNA Board member and NYC H+H Executive Council President Judith Cutchin leads the invocation.