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Wanda Weaver

AFSCME's "Mother Jones"

1919-2008

During the statewide strike in July of 1975, Wanda Weaver, then President of Transportation and Safety Bldg Clericals, Local 2534, is seen here as she was arrested, handcuffed and carried away by State Troopers. It took six of them to do it.  As soon as she was bailed out of jail, Wanda returned to the picket line. When then-Gov. Milton Shapp agreed to pardon those who were arrested, Wanda refused.  She said she didn't need a pardon for standing up for her members. 

Sister Weaver in 1975 when she was appointed as a member of the Judicial Panel by the 24 member International Executive Board.

Sister Weaver with District Council 89 Director, Mike Fox, at the 2004 International Convention in California.

Wanda was a clerical worker with the Department of Revenue who helped Gerald McEntee and Ed Keller organize Pennsylvania's public employees.  She was fired 3 times during the course of the campaign.  She personally obtained thousands of signatures from her coworkers on cards demanding the right to join AFSCME.  Sister Weaver was president of Local 2534 from 1972 - 1986. She continued her fight for public employees until she retired to Oklahoma. Her family has fond memories of a plaque she kept on her desk which read, "When you have them by the balls, their hearts and minds will follow."

She will be greatly missed.

Graveside service and interment is scheduled for Monday, January 21, in Seiling, OK.

Memorial donations in memory of Wanda Weaver can be made to:

AFSCME Fallen Hero's Fund

1625 L. Street, NW

Washington, DC 20036

The American Lung Association at www.lungusa.org

or any shelter for battered women.