Rally to Save the American Dream

In solidarity with the unions in Wisconsin, Indiana and Ohio, Kansas Democrats and union supporters held a rally a on the step of the state Capitol in Topeka on Saturday, February 26.  The action also served as protest to HB2130, a bill the Kansas House passed on February 24 that would outlaw employee payroll deductions for political action committees.

“This is our version of what is going on in Wisconsin,” said Andy Sanchez, Executive Secretary-Treasurer of the Kansas AFL-CIO.  "Banning the payroll deductions is an infringement of free speech and is unconstitutional.”

Kansas Democrats scrambled to reorganize their schedule so attendees at their annual Washington Days event in Topeka could participate in the rally.

“This is an important opportunity to stand with middle class Kansans who are having their voices shut out, especially after the anti-union HB2130 passed the State house this week," said Senate Democratic Leader Anthony Hensley in remarks to the crowd.

Despite the dismal weather, union members and supporters from around the state descended on the Capitol for the February 26 rally.  Among them was Steve Boyda, who has generously shared his photos from the day's events.  Below is a slide show of his contributions via Flickr.