CFM Local 10-208 member goes from concert hall to political office

Lynn LaPlante, a concert violinist and violist and member of the Chicago Federation of Musicians Local 10-208, joined the America's Workforce Union Podcast to share her journey in labor and how that has helped her make a difference in her community.

LaPlante's began playing the violin at the age of eight. The youngest of eight children in a family of educators, she was expected to play an instrument. Despite the challenges of mastering the violin, she thrived on the competitive nature of the music world, performing with prestigious ensembles like the Chicago Jazz Philharmonic and the Charleston Symphony Orchestra. 

LaPlante’s passion for music often extended beyond the stage. She uses her talent to connect with diverse audiences, including inmates at a local jail. Since 2022, LaPlante has held violin recitals at the DuPage County Correctional Facility in Wheaton, Ill. She said she’s received support from the Sheriff’s office, who, LaPlante said, believes the recitals make the nearly 550 detainees' time incarcerated a bit easier.

LaPlante has been able to transition her union career into a political journey following the 2016 election. It was after hearing President Obama’s exit speech and a challenge from her husband to take action rather than complain that she decided to run for chair of the DuPage County Board. LaPlante said she received pushback from individuals who questioned her qualifications and called her, "just a musician." She lost her first race but returned to win a seat on the board in the next election cycle, defeating an established incumbent. LaPlante emphasized the importance of diverse voices in politics and encouraged other union members to make a difference by bringing their perspectives to public service.

Listen to the full episode to explore Lynn LaPlante's journey and insights.