The Michigan ESP Bill of Rights: an engine for advocacy
Stories by MEA Voice Editor Brenda Ortega
MEA member Jeff Wilson sees the Michigan ESP Bill of Rights campaign as a message of hope in a sea of negative political discourse.
The campaign unveiled this summer is part of a growing effort in states across the U.S. to elevate the voices of Education Support Professionals (ESP) who do vital work in schools but whose contributions are too often overlooked and undervalued.
“We’re seeing negativity in our state and national politics and more of our taxes being funneled upward to the wealthiest 1% of people that have more than enough,” said Wilson, a member of the MEA Board of Directors and ESP Caucus Board, who works in Human Resources at Michigan State University (MSU-APA).
A member of the Ad-Hoc Committee for the Bill of Rights campaign, Wilson said, “This campaign is something that people can rally around and say, ‘Yes, I deserve this. I work hard, and you can’t keep taking from me. I deserve to be paid a thriving wage.’”
Following the lead of Maryland, Massachusetts and Illinois — where similar campaigns are already in full swing — the Michigan ESP Bill of Rights is an engine to drive advocacy for the resources, policies, and programs that build presence and power for ESPs.
Phase I of the Michigan campaign began a year ago to develop the campaign’s six areas of focus by gathering ESP input.
Last summer marked the start of Phase II in which ESP members and leaders serving as captains in their regions help to spread the word and gather signatures in support, including from political leaders, school boards and other elected bodies.
Additional captains will be needed for the next phase, including in the northern, midwestern, Thumb, and Upper Peninsula areas. For information or to apply, contact MEA New Unit Organizer Danielle Baranowski at dbaranowski@mea.org.
Four other states are also in Phase II, and another four states are getting underway.
“Our state got a large amount of engagement in Phase I, and we need to build on that and keep developing our strength in the months ahead,” Wilson said.
Learn more about the six elements of the Michigan Bill of Rights campaign through the stories of our featured captains:
Thriving Wages
“It’s about a better future for my kids.” — Shona Espinoza, middle school paraeducator
Full Benefits
“These are essential elements that people need to live a dignified life.” — Robin Moore, college circulation specialist
Workplace Safety
“No one goes to work to be hurt.” — Katerina Tyner, Preschool teacher associate
Secure Retirement
“Employees want something they can build for the future.”— Laken London, university accounting clerk
Job Advancement
“We all help provide education to students.” — Carol Urban, junior high paraeducator
Job Security
“I’m trying to make the things that I believe in come true.” — Dylan Baade, university custodian
