The PPEA Board of Directors recently began an important conversation about strengthening labor solidarity in our region. At the Board’s January meeting, members heard a presentation from Les Thompson of the Colorado Springs Area Labor Council (CSALC), outlining what affiliation could mean for PPEA members and for the broader labor movement in Colorado Springs.

CSALC is part of the AFL-CIO and represents roughly two dozen local unions with about 4,500 members across the Pikes Peak region. Joining CSALC would be an additional affiliation for PPEA; it would not replace or end our long-standing affiliation with the National Education Association (NEA). A related new-business item is expected to come before the Colorado Education Association (CEA) Delegate Assembly in April regarding statewide affiliation with the AFL-CIO.

For PPEA, the cost of affiliating with CSALC would be approximately $2.35 per member per month. In return, PPEA would gain voting power within the council, the ability to help develop new union leaders through CSALC representative roles, and access to relationship-building efforts such as the council’s blue-collar breakfast, where union members from different industries meet and connect. CSALC has expressed interest in expanding this into a monthly breakfast, along with shared outreach efforts like postcards, T-shirts, and grocery bags featuring all affiliated locals.

Board members also discussed the value of coordinated, cross-union action. CSALC has supported collective efforts involving workers at the VA hospital, Starbucks, and King Soopers, stood in solidarity with the District 11 educators’ strike, and is organizing a rally in support of Alex Pretti. These actions highlight how labor councils can amplify worker voices beyond a single profession.

CSALC currently operates with a budget of about $50,000. PPEA’s participation would represent a significant investment in the council’s capacity, potentially supporting expanded outreach and even a part-time staff position to strengthen organizing and communication.

This discussion is exploratory, and no final decision has been made. PPEA leadership will continue to review the potential benefits, costs, and alignment with our values, with transparency and member input guiding any next steps.