My name is Janet Gray, and I am proud to announce my candidacy for President of the Eastern Region. For the past fourteen years I have been a committed rank-and-file member within our union. My father’s work as an IBEW business agent taught me that solidarity, democracy, and courage are the foundation of a strong labor movement—principles I carry with me today. Since joining UE in 2011, my dedication has always been grounded in one core belief: the members run this union.

Local 618 is one of the founding historic Locals of UE and over the past decade I have held each of Local 618 officer positions.

• Business Agent – 6 years (current)

• President – 2 years

• Secretary-Treasurer – 3 years

For the last 6 years, I have served on the Local 506 Unity Council, assisting Local 506 and 618 members with conflict resolution.

I have been an active member in the Eastern Region:

• Recording Secretary – 3 years

• Executive Board member – 5 years

• Eastern Region Task Force for the reduction of regions

As a member of the task force, I helped make decisions surrounding the reduction of three regions to two. I’m looking forward to leading the task force as we return to three regions.

During my time with UE, I have been involved in countless grievance fights, transfers of work negotiations and contract negotiations, and helped lead the Local through two strikes:

• Multiple transfers of work with General Electric

• Effects Bargaining with both General Electric and our current employer, Wabtec

• Two contract negotiations with Wabtec (one being a first contract fight)

• Two strikes; the first being 9 days and the second being 70 days

Throughout these fights I witnessed the power of rank-and-file unity. These moments shaped the leader I am today – one who listens, one who stands for the rights of workers and one who never forgets who this union belongs to.

My experience extends beyond local and regional leadership. I have represented UE workers nationally and internationally at key gatherings, including:

• IndustriALL Global Meeting of the General Electric Trade Union Network – Toronto, Canada – 2018

• UE Women’s Leadership Program – 2024

• Labor Notes – Chicago, Illinois – 2024

• UE / FAT Exchange – Mexico City, Mexico – 2024

• IndustriALL Global Congress – Sydney, Australia – 2025

These experiences have reinforced my belief that the struggles of working people are global, and solidarity is our greatest tool.

In addition to representing UE at key gatherings, I’ve helped lead member-to-member trainings and sub regional trainings, educating new members on:

• UE’s history

• UE’s structure

• UE’s five principles

• How to have an organizing conversation

I believe in educating members and empowering them by providing the tools needed to lead a successful Local. When members understand their union, they own their union.

I’m ready to bring my experience, energy and unwavering belief in UE’s principles to the role of Eastern Region President. I humbly ask for your support, your vote, and your partnership as we build a stronger region – together.

In solidarity,

Janet