Delegates attending Day Two of the historic 38th UAW Constitutional Convention heard from Congresswomen Debbie Dingell, a longtime supporter of UAW members and working families. Michigan’s 12th Congressional District Congresswoman reminded members of the union’s rich history and legacy.
“The UAW was a part of putting the world on wheels and you are going to be a critical part as we transform for mobility for the future,” Dingell said. “The history of the UAW is the history of labor and of working men and women in this country. You must never forget the role that the UAW and labor played in creating the middle class in America.”
For most of the day, the nearly 1,000 delegates from throughout the U.S. (including Puerto Rico) and Canada, focused on resolutions to the union’s constitution.
In democratic fashion and robust debate, delegates voted against a proposal for retiree eligibility for UAW International office. Delegates soundly approved stronger language to include higher education in the union’s constitution regarding areas of jurisdiction. Also, delegates voted to create Region 6, comprised of Washington, Oregon, California, Nevada, Idaho, Utah, Arizona, Hawaii and Alaska.
During more debate, delegates approved a resolution for no cap on maximum contribution amount to candidates during any election cycle for International or local union offices. Also, delegates approved salaries for International staff and officers. The wage increases track the most recently ratified General Motors contract. In addition, the new language specifies the base salaries of staff and officers instead of using a formula.
AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler focused her speech on the need to move forward. “You are making sure that future is heading down your assembly lines. American made. Union made. And it’s that mindset that willingness to take on new things that is going to help us build a labor movement of the future,” Shuler said.
The convention resumed 9 a.m. today.
Other users read these articles next...