Oregon AFSCME members interested in this year's Oregon Labor Candidate School (OLCS) have until July 27 to apply, according to Council 75 Political Coordinator Eva Rippeteau.

Rippeteau says the OLCS was created by a coalition of Oregon unions to meet the growing need for labor candidates in elected office.

"Across America, labor unions are under attack at the federal, state and local level," says Rippeteau. "Fundamental issues such as collective bargaining rights, access to affordable and quality health care and retirement security are being eroded by elected officials. Elected leaders, from the state legislature to local boards, make important decisions that impact union members every day.

"AFSCME — along with the AFL-CIO, SEIU, OEA, OSEA, AFT, ONA, the Building Trades and the Firefighters — recognized the need to have more pro-labor candidates and elected officials at all levels in our state," she continued. "So, if you have ever thought about running for education service district or school boards, county commission, city council or even the Oregon Legislature, this series of trainings is for you!"

Rippeteau says that electing labor champions not only benefits union members, it benefits all Oregonians.

"By electing working people who know our communities, we increase support for pro-worker policies that benefit everyone," said Rippeteau. "OLCS provides the support and resources for our members to successfully run for office to sustain the values of middle class working families in Oregon."

Members with questions are encouraged to e-mail Rippeteau. Again, applications are due no later than July 27 and can be found online at www.oregonlaborcandidateschool.com under that website's "Get Involved" tab.