Standing left to right: Mike Watier, Tom Vassallo, Jerry McCormick, Mike St. Thomas, Kathy Kennedy, Jack Kennedy. Seated left to right: Senator Charles Schumer, Paul Gannon, George Jemiolo.

CAP conference inspires delegates

Region 9 political activists gathered in Washington, D.C. earlier this year along with more than 1,000 other UAW members from throughout the country for the annual UAW Community Action Program conference.

Maxanne Rees receives $2,300 check from Dave Kagels.

CAP delegates learned the importance of getting politically involved around the many issues that affect workers’ jobs and lives. Topics discussed throughout the week included changes in the Occupational Safety and Health Act, lack of health care insurance, the National Labor Relations Board, and the fight to protect unemployment compensation.

Workshops were also given on civil and human rights, health and safety, manufacturing and the U.S. economy, pay equity, violence against women, and worker rights. The worker-to-worker program was also discussed with every delegate learning that the most effective way to reach fellow union members is through one-on-one contact in the workplace.

The highlight of their week’s activities involved Region 9 delegates meeting with representatives and senators from Pennsylvania, New York, and New Jersey to deliver a message on the need to protect American jobs and American workers.

Next: Director’s report