TWU Local 502's Sharon Polk and Local 1's Bernie Burkett have been involved with their local politics in Los Angeles and Akron, Ohio, respectively, for years. But their experience with the Department of Legislative and Political Affairs Internship program this past April has broadened their understanding of how a presence in Washington, DC is an absolute necessity in order to be involved with national and local legislative decisions.

Along with attending legislative hearings on important TWU issues, learning the skills to thoroughly research bills and other documents, and attending fund raisers where they met lawmakers, the interns had the opportunity to help plan for TWU's 2010 COPE Legislative Conference.

"Being in Washington before the Conference showed me how important it is to be in this face-paced world where you are always running to different meetings, seeing different people and taking notes," said DLPA intern Bernie Burkett, Local 1 President.

Burkett was impressed with International President James C. Little's announcement at the COPE Conference that the International would be moving to Washington. "It touched me to see such a dynamic leader who understands the necessity to be more involved and readily available Washington," said Burkett, who felt that observing legislative hearings on the Hill was one of the most valuable aspects of the internship.

Sharon Polk, Local 502 Recording Secretary and Chair of the Local's Legislative Committee, emphasized Burkett's point: "When politicians see us in the Capitol it shows them that our presence and reach is both local and national."

Both interns said that it was a comfortable and learning experience interning at the DLPA and getting to know the staff. Polk added that the researching skills she learned during the internship has given her needed insight to help inform her brothers and sisters about political issues.

Both Polk and Burkett emphasized that members need to take an active interest in their local politics and to voice their opinions. "You have to understand what you are voting for," Polk explained.

"Everyone should experience the internship if they have the opportunity because you come away feeling like you can conquer the world," said Polk.

"Everyone is encouraged to apply, but when TWU members accept the challenge to be an intern, they should understand that their work during the program is for the good of other TWU members. It's important they are focused on the Department's agenda and plans created for them instead of any personal agendas or interests that they might have. That way, all of our members will benefit and not just one sector or local."

Apply for the 2011 DLPA Internship program by visiting www.twu.org and clicking on the application on the right-hand side of the page. The deadline is September 30, 2010 so apply now! Please note that applicants will require approval by their local presidents.