Siblings, the Napa Solano Central Labor Council regrets to inform our members and the Community that we have voted to pull our endorsement of Hakeem Brown for Mayor of Vallejo. The Delegate body, made up of representatives of our 48 affiliated Unions who work on behalf of over 40,000 members, felt that Councilmember Brown’s lack of transparency surrounding his criminal past was a violation of the trust that we had placed in him when we voted to endorse.
This decision was made exceedingly difficult considering the support Councilmember Brown has given working families in the 5 years we have known him and the close relationship he has built with our membership. We believe in providing opportunities and support for those who have paid their debts and are seeking to rebuild their lives. Mr. Brown’s past and this vote does not negate the hard work he has put into the community or himself.
We appreciate the patience shown by our members and the community as we adhered to our process, ensuring that all of the Central Labor Councils affiliated unions and its members had ample opportunity to hear from Councilmember Brown personally before we voted to take a position.
Like any decision we make to endorse candidates, this action relates only to the collective delegate body of the Napa Solano Central Council, with each affiliated Union free to act independently from any actions the Council takes surrounding our endorsements. And of course, like every American, our members will have the opportunity to have their voices heard at the ballot box.
