We are a union shop for Los Angeles county.  Yet we have no direct
union protection/representation in our department.  I have obtained
signatures to be union steward for my department.  A union business
representative has prevented me from being activated as a steward even
though I have obtained the signatures to do so on two occasions. 
Union officials tell me she has the right to deny me my position as a
union steward and our department remains with no representation. What
can I do to rectify this situation?