The Union Meeting
Ask any gathering of union activists and leaders about union meeting attendance and almost all will say the same thing: rank and file members don’t attend union meetings in the numbers that they should. This matters because the union meeting is the heart of where members debate the issues facing their membership and where they vote on matters like union expenditures.
Like a lot things, turning this trend around will take work and consistency. Here are some tips from locals that have had success in rebuilding their union meetings.
TIP 1: Spread the word! Notice of union meetings is not only a requirement per many local union bylaws (and the UAW Constitution requires specific notice for certain union meetings), but it is the best way to drum up interest in the meeting. Notice on the bulletin board, a posting in the local union newspaper or newsletter, a message on the website or social media. Text, email or even postcards: telling members about dates, times and locations of meetings is critical. Adding additional information such as important discussions can also raise interest. Graphics or notices with visual interest will capture attention.