Oneshia Portlette-Shade Elected to Chair TWU International Women's Committee
Union sisters from many TWU locals met in Philadelphia for the 2013 International Women's Conference and elected one of our own, Oneshia Portlette-Shade, as Chair. Beginning on the first day of spring, the conference was a Philadelphia-themed meet and greet that had women from all over the TWU family talking, networking, line dancing, and eating Philly cheese steaks. A Friday bus brought 25 TWU Local 100 women to the conference for one day, with others coming up Thursday and staying through Saturday.
Our sisters were met with inspiring talks and courageous women sharing their stories of empowerment, following the theme of Sisters Empowering Sisters. Oneshia, who has been coordinating Sandy Relief at TWU Local 100, was elected Chair of the TWU International's Transit, Services, and Rail Working Women's Committee. Theodora Boyd was elected First Co-Chair, Cassandra Gilbert 2nd Co-Chair, and Constance Bradley Recording Secretary.
Oneshia received a ringing endorsement from her TWU Local 100 sisters. On Friday, after an emotionally charged day with a spirit of love and sisterhood in the air, many returned to 1700 Broadway. Those who stayed for Saturday shared a day of health and wellness information as well as financial counseling.The day ended with a shopping venue which included various vendors at the event.
Says Power Division Section Chair Celeste Kirkland: "Our sisters in Philadelphia Local 234 did a great job hosting and providing an atmosphere where sisters could truly learn to empower each other. Sandra Burleson from TWU International said it all with a call to "Holla Back" which demands a response of "I got your back!" Here's a link to see photos from the event.