Yesterday, I spoke before a group of Democrats in Reno, Nevada on behalf of Bernie and, at one point, someone asked me about why the biggest labor unions are not choosing to endorse Bernie. My first point was simple: it’s a crass and ugly if understandable choice—the union leaders, many of whom I know, understand that if they are not with the status quo candidate and she wins, she and her circle, over many years, have shown to be a vindictive bunch; Bernie, on the other hand, does not have a vindictive bone in his body (which makes him even more of a brilliant choice for president) and won’t cut people off at the knees, he’ll advance workers issues no matter what.

And, then, I tried to say what a tragedy this is—and I literally had tears in my eyes. I choked up slightly. I said, “the labor movement is almost dead, it’s the greatest crisis in living memory for workers and many of the leaders of the movement are refusing to see the chance for a political revolution and is opting to support the status quo which will mean the end of labor”.

But, there are some courageous people. People willing to say fuck you to the cowards in Washington. Take a bow, New Hampshire SEIU Local 1984, the second biggest labor union in New Hampshire (from emailed press release from campaign):

After a meeting of the board of directors, the Service Employees International Union Local 1984 today voted to endorse Sen. Bernie Sanders for President. SEIU 1984, the State Employees’ Association, is New Hampshire’s second largest labor union and represents more than 11,000 workers across the Granite State. The announcement adds major momentum to Sen. Sanders’ campaign, and demonstrates the depth of grassroots support for his message.

“Bernie Sanders has a long history of fighting for working people,” said Richard Gulla, President of SEIU Local 1984. “He shares many of our members’ goals and values. He is not afraid to take on Wall Street and will fight against corporate greed and corruption. Bernie supports every worker earning a livable wage allowing them to care for and support their families. He is also respectful and supportive of the collective bargaining process. He understands that many of our young people cannot afford to attend college so they can prepare for the jobs of this century; and that our senior citizens are not being afforded a dignified retirement.”

“This campaign has always been about putting the needs of working people and working families first,” said Sen. Bernie Sanders. “That is why I am truly honored to have the support of SEIU 1984 and many local unions across the country, as we work to build an economy that works for all of us—not just the wealthy one percent.”

“No matter what happens inside the Beltway, today’s news shows without a doubt that the passions of working families are clearly with Bernie,” said state director Julia Barnes.

It isn’t just courage to buck the crumbling of the international union’s leadership. It’s a profile of a clear vision of the moment in history.

It may not be the last SEIU Local to do this.

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