"WITHOUT MY DEPARTMENT THE INEQUALITIES THAT PEOPLE ALREADY EXPERIENCE WOULD BE MAGNIFIED." 

Sonia is an economic support specialist and an essential worker.

Sonia assists Wisconsinites who apply for SNAP benefits, Medicaid, and childcare subsidies. Sonia's work ensures families receive aid to feed their families and support to keep them safe. Sonia witnesses the inequalities our communities face, exacerbated by COVID-19. As an AFSCME member and president of AFSCME Local 720, she's a powerful advocate for the community members she serves each day.

In her own words: "I process applications for SNAP benefits, take applications for Medicaid, and help people with subsidies for the Wisconsin childcare program. Even before COVID there were heartbreaking stories about inequalities. COVID has definitely highlighted this...If we had a clear federal government response to COVID that would've alleviated a lot of stress and anxiety.

Without my department the inequalities that people already experience would be magnified. There would be lower life expectancy, well-being, and hungry kids. Beyond this crisis, workers are still essential. The outpouring of appreciation is wonderful but it’s important to highlight that it’s not always the professional level of work that needs to be recognized as essential.”

Sonia knows that having a voice in the workplace will help keep communities safe. Sonia and her coworkers are essential public safety workers and they deserve full collective bargaining rights and quality benefits.