38th UAW Constitutional Convention
Convenes at 12:00pm

Opening ceremonies started at 12noon on 7/25/22.

• Delegates reviewed a video of safety protocols for Cobo hall or Huntington Center as it is known today.
• The invocation was given by Chaplaincy chairperson Eldon Taylor from Kansas City.
• UAW Regional members of the Honorary Color guard presented the flags of three nations and the UAW flag. Member Greg Bedford of UAW 2209, my local, was part of the honorary Color Guard who presented the flags.
• National anthems from Canada Puerto Rico and United States.
• Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan gave us a welcome.
• Michigan US Senator Gary Peters spoke on the importance of unions for all American workers Chips for semi-conductors, bring that production to America Peters stated, “Build it here!” He also spoke about the importance of Health Care for all.
• A video tribute to the leaders lost since our last Convention, a very moving tribute.
• Constitution Committee gave it’s report.
• The Rules Committee gave a report.
• The Credentials committee gave a report.
• All three committees were unanimously seated, and their respective reports accepted by the body.
• Credentials Committee reported 326 locals sent 803 delegates, 198 alternate delegates and 10 Retirees to this convention.
• The appeals were reviewed and reported on.
• The Rules Committee report was important as they used information from past conventions. The declared Robert’s Rules of Order as the functioning process for the meetings structure each day. They also detailed rules that members then talked and debated, all motions to change failed in voting and the Rules Committee report was read into the record.
• We heard from Professor James Brundy member of the Public Review Board (PRB) who reminded us of the PRB’s origins in 1957, 65 years ago. When commissioned and added to our Constitution they were charged with being outside of the UAW and bring an unbiased view on appeals brought by members. They are professionals from academia and are Labor Law people predominantly. Members know they can appeal to the PRB and to find out more visit PRBUAW.org
• The Constitution Committee report had the most robust discussion of the day as they brought forward the changes to Articles 8, 10 19 & 30. All are part of the changes needed to support our elections for International Union officers and One Member, One Vote.
• Delegates took the mic for and against the proposed changes and let their voices be heard.
• In the end the Run Off Election was chosen by the delegates to be the deciding factor for a winner if one does not have 50% of the votes in this upcoming election.
• The Convention was adjourned at 5:45PM EST and will reconvene at 9:00am EST on Tuesday 7/26/22