COMMITTEE ON POLITICAL education
(COPE)
We need Pro-Labor Candidates that will do right by working-class families.
From endorsements to knocking on doors to holding our elected officials accountable.
Since 1887, the Inland Empire Labor Council has experienced substantial growth, now representing over 90 unions and 400,000 families. Our COPE endorsements play a crucial role in enhancing living conditions and advocating for critical issues. Covering an expansive region of 27,269 square miles, our members live across 9 Congressional, 7 Senate, and 13 Assembly districts.
These regions confront numerous challenges arising from local living conditions including problems like access to affordable housing, food insecurity, wage inequality, and difficulties in accessing affordable healthcare. With our affiliates, partnered community organizations, and elected officials we are working towards improving the quality of life in the Inland Empire.
Our commitment is to tackle these challenges head-on by endorsing candidates who align with our values, thereby ensuring that the voices of working families resonate in policy decisions, ultimately contributing to a stronger, more equitable community.
What is COPE?
COPE, or the Committee on Political Education, serves as the political action arm of our organization. Its core objectives include political education, facilitating member-to-member communications about political issues, endorsing candidates, and making contributions to candidate campaigns.
How does COPE work?
The COPE Committee regularly evaluates candidates to identify those committed to advocating for the interests of working families. Endorsements and contributions are made to support candidates aligned with our values and priorities.
What do we do?
- Screening and Endorsements: COPE screens candidates and endorses those committed to supporting working families and positive societal change.
- Action Contributions: COPE makes contributions to endorsed candidates and encourages members to vote for them.
Why “COPE” instead of the IELC?
By law, union dues cannot be used to support candidates. COPE funds are voluntary and separate, allowing members to contribute to political activities without affecting their dues.
Member Involvement has the power to decide how COPE operates. COPE Committees are elected by members, ensuring democratic control over the political program.
Learn More About Our Endorsement Process
All candidates interested in pursuing the endorsement must adhere to the process procedures and deadlines of the application to be considered. If you are interested in seeking an endorsement learn more below.