PRESIDENT’S PERSPECTIVE | DARRELL ROBERTS

Stay in the Fight

In early May, we concluded our 50th Biennial Convention, and I am more energized than ever by the solidarity and fighting spirit of California’s professional firefighters. Delegates from across the state came together united by one purpose: standing shoulder to shoulder in defense of our members, our families, our profession, and the communities we serve.

I want to congratulate all officers elected and re-elected to leadership positions throughout our union. The work accomplished at convention — including the debate and passage of over two dozen resolutions — will serve as our roadmap as we continue fighting for active and retired firefighters across California.

What stood out most was the engagement on the convention floor and in our committees. The discussions reflected the very best of the labor movement: passionate debate, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to protecting working people. Union strength is never guaranteed. It is built through solidarity, participation, and action.

Today, there are powerful forces trying to divide working families and weaken organized labor. We cannot allow that division to take hold within our ranks. Our strength has always come from standing united and understanding that an injury to one firefighter is an injury to all.

That solidarity starts at home — by staying active in your local, engaged in your district, and involved in the political process. The decisions made in Sacramento and communities across this state directly impact our staffing, safety, pensions, healthcare, and ability to serve the public.

As we enter another dangerous fire season, our members will once again answer the call during wildfires, medical emergencies, and disasters across California. While others run from danger, our members stay and fight. That sacrifice deserves strong contracts, safe staffing, proper resources, and leaders willing to fight alongside you.

Make no mistake: CPF is ready for the challenge ahead.

Our team is already gearing up for critical battles in Sacramento and throughout the state. Whether the issue is staffing, workplace safety, retirement security, behavioral health, or collective bargaining rights, CPF will stand with our members every step of the way.

As your President, I give you my commitment that I will bring every ounce of CPF firepower to these battles. Recently, I walked door-to-door alongside District 1 Vice President Dave Prietto and our brothers and sisters of Riverside City Firefighters, Local 1067, in support of Measure Z. I also joined District 3 Vice President Ross Pounds in meeting with the members of UC Davis Firefighters, Local 4920, to discuss the importance of organizing and engagement. Those conversations remind us that the strength of this union is not found in any one leader — it is found in the membership.

Brothers and sisters, the work ahead will not be easy. But firefighters have never backed down from a fight. United in solidarity, there is nothing we cannot accomplish.