UAW Convention Sets Bold Agenda with New Initiatives and Leadership Choices

The city of Detroit, Michigan, recently became the focal point for nearly 900 delegates attending the UAW’s 39th Constitutional Convention. The gathering aimed to establish a vigorous plan for the union's future endeavors.

Delegates took several decisive actions, including voting to increase the union’s strike fund and pledging additional resources for organizing efforts. They also approved resolutions to support a robust organizing strategy, specifically targeting a buildup to May Day 2028. Moreover, the convention clarified the criteria for UAW retiree status, allocated more funds for the Women’s Department and Civil & Human Rights Departments, and established local standing committees focused on Communications, Health & Safety, among others.

Prominent figures such as UAW-supported candidates Dr. Abdul El-Sayed and Jocelyn Benson addressed the attendees. Other notable speakers included AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler, SEIU President April Verrett, IndustriALL General Secretary Atle Hoie, Congresswoman Debbie Dingell, NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson, and Rev. Dr. Wendell Anthony. Additionally, the UAW recognized four individuals and groups with the union’s esteemed Social Justice Award: Retired UAW Vice President Chuck Browning, the workers of Volkswagen Chattanooga, the late Reverend Jesse Jackson, and Maria Medina.

The delegates appointed UAW Local 838 Financial Secretary Stacie Loveless as an International Trustee, entrusting her with a 12-year tenure. Candidates were also nominated for the union’s International Executive Board elections, with voting ballots scheduled to be distributed in August.