Ensley Joseph is a man all about solutions.
The 54-year-old Baton Rouge man joined SEIU Local 21 LA five years ago in search for solutions for himself and his City of Baton Rouge co-workers.
“I’ve always been active in bringing about solutions and I know my union is striving for better working conditions and advancement for me and my co-workers,” said Joseph who works in the Inspection Department. “Instead of complaining about the problem, I want to be a part of the solution.”
Joseph stands by this approach and isn’t afraid to ask the tough questions or call his co-workers to task.
“You can’t sit back and don’t be involved. If you do that, you can’t expect anything to get done. A lot of times people want action to be taken, but are not ready to get involved in order for the action to take place,” he said. “You have to be willing to step up and answer the call.”
Not only has Joseph answered the union call, he’s answered the call of music ministry.
Joseph belongs to three gospel singing groups — Greater St. James Mass Choir, Voices of Zion and GSJ Men, a gospel quartet. Joseph, a tenor, has been singing for three decades.
Joseph is featured with his singing group, GSJ Men.
“I’ve always had an interest in sounds. My mother brought me to church so I grew up with a love of music and God blessed me with a voice,” said Joseph, who has an affinity for singing country and western music too. “It’s not just about singing. It’s a form of ministry.”
Although Joseph’s music keeps him busy recording and traveling to area churches to perform, fighting for solutions for working families remains a top priority.
“I’m trying to make a difference,” he said. “Not being involved is not helping families or workers.”
