"In recent weeks, unions have found themselves inadvertently under attack. In the ALP's attempt to make itself re-electable federally, unions were said to be "part of the problem". It's true that a few corrupt union leaders have done nothing to help the labour movement in recent years, but working people in this country are in real trouble if the values unions bring to our public sphere are weakened.

In every crisis there is opportunity. Instead of acting defensively, unions can use this shake-up to further strengthen themselves..."

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Leaders created additional economic opportunities for workers by pushing through a "preference policy" prioritizing local bids for contracts and vending with the City of Santa Cruz and Monterey County. This is part of COPA's regional strategy to promote hiring by municipal and school district entities from within Santa Cruz, San Benito and Monterey.