Elaine Tran - 2026 RALY Award Recipient
Congratulations to our very own Local 002 Member, Elaine Tran!
Here is the excerpt from the AUPE Announcement-
Congratulations Elaine Tran, the recipient of this year’s Recognition of Activism Leadership (RALY) Award!
Since joining APS in February 2024 and AUPE in March 2024, Elaine has become a familiar, welcoming, and energetic presence in AUPE spaces.
It’s clear that she embodies the values of a union activist by stepping into several leadership roles including the Inclusion, Diversity, Equity & Accessibility (IDEA) Committee Vice Chair, IDEA Committee Chair, and Strike Captain.
What stands out about Elaine is how naturally she brings people in. She talks about AUPE with enthusiasm, encourages members to attend meetings and join committees, and helps people feel like there is a place for them in the union. As one supporter put it, “Elaine shares AUPE with everyone she meets.”
Elaine’s activism is grounded in inclusion and connection, working to reduce barriers, support vulnerable members, and make sure more voices are heard across Local 002 and AUPE.
She has championed diversity training, anniversary events, youth engagement, and advocacy for youth and the 2SLGBTQ+ community. She also brings creativity to the work, finding simple ways to spark conversations and get members involved, including using a button maker to help increase engagement.
At the worksite, Elaine has helped build momentum through bargaining education, strike line practice, rallies, social events, and everyday conversations with colleagues.
People know they can come to her with questions, ideas, or concerns, and they will be met with care. In the words of another supporter, “Elaine goes out of her way to make sure you feel heard.”
That commitment to listening, welcoming, and organizing is what makes Elaine such a deserving RALY award recipient.