Page 12 - December 2021

In November, I, along with all the field reps at the FOP, have been wearing many hats due to this may- or’s tyrannical portal policy concerning the COVID vaccine. We have split shifts so that the office con- tinues to be staffed and so that we have been able to be present at headquarters from the early morning until after midnight, to stand with and represent our members in counseling sessions by CPD ex- empt rank staff. We, along with our attorneys, have been present during every step of the portal process
with our members. We will ensure that they are not intimidated and do not feel compelled to comply with this newly created policy—one that was not negotiated and clearly violates our collective bargaining agreement with our employer. Many of- ficers have been forced into a “no-pay” status, as they will not compromise their unwavering integrity for their paycheck. To the officers who have chosen to hold the line, I am so impressed by your courageous and selfless actions. I thank you.
While sitting in on counseling sessions, I was proud of what was stated to the exempt staff by our brothers and sisters. Many of these officers were overcome with emotion as they spoke from their hearts about their love for this job or having to re-
move their second- or third- generation CPD star from their vest or holder. Other proud officers looked on helplessly, never being disciplined or labeled insubordinate in 30-plus years of service. This unfair, and frankly unlawful, process has caused many officers to realize how little we are valued by our elected officials. We have all just become a name and number. I pray that this policy and practice will be resolved favorably by the arbitrator. When and if the mayor decides to run for re-election, we must come out in a unified force and vote this bully out of office.
Lastly, congratulations are in order to the FOP president on his retirement. You definitely have been the right guy to have in office at this time to represent the men and women of the FOP. Your sacrifices for this organization have not gone unnoticed, and I personally thank you. Also, congratulations to all the new- ly promoted evidence technicians, as you have one of the most difficult jobs with the CPD. Convictions of offenders are now more evidence-based than ever, and we cannot rely solely on the confessions of these offenders.
Stay safe.
Financial Secretary’s Report
A unified force
JIM JAKSTAVICH
12 CHICAGO LODGE 7 ■ DECEMBER 2021