Trade unionists from 17 countries attend convention

IMF President Jyrki Raina joins UAW delegates in a traditional convention demonstration.

There’s no question solidarity across borders is essential in today’s global economy – and critical to our union’s growth.

It was evident at the UAW’s 35th Constitutional Convention as well, with three national anthems opening the week: “The Star Spangled Banner,” “Oh, Canada” (performed by Mike Ulch of UAW Local 251) and “La Borinquena” (performed by more than a dozen delegates from 10 Puerto Rico).

It’s not surprising, then, that nearly 40 representatives from 17 countries – from Belgium to United Kingdom – attended the convention. Delegates welcomed trade unionists from 20 different international unions and federations, including the Canadian Auto Workers, IG Metall and the International Metalworkers Federation.

Addressing the 1,200 delegates, IMF President Jyrki Raina declared that “a new era of global solidarity has begun,” and he stressed the importance of manufacturing economies in the 21st century.

“America needs industrial jobs. The world needs countries that make things,” he said. “Industry is the backbone for the creation of good quality jobs, with decent working conditions, proper training and skills, health and safety, and respect of trade union and workers’ rights.”

Delegates reinforced Raina’s message of global unity among workers by approving a resolution supporting international labor solidarity. Speaking in support of the resolution, Bryan Bonds of UAW Local 212 in Sterling Heights, Mich., said workers’ rights are deeply connected to other human rights around the world.

“We’re looking more at human rights and civil rights throughout the world, and that’s something we all need to stand in favor of,” said the local’s financial secretary. A strong, productive workforce is a unified workforce. That will give labor a voice for safe, productive conditions throughout the world.”

Delegate Annette Godmarie of UAW Local 251 in Ontario, Canada, came away from her first convention with a renewed sense of empowerment.

“Being from Canada, certain labor laws are different [than in the United States]. Companies are always asking for concessions. The convention has given me a renewed sense of empowerment in trying to keep the wages and benefits that we have,” she said.

Another first-time delegate, Mayra Muñoz of UAW Local 1850, one of oldest local unions in Puerto Rico, agreed.

“I’m glad that I was able to participate in the process and proud to cast a vote in favor of representation of local union members,” said Muñoz, who is president of the local which represents workers in AELA, the Commonwealth’s government workers’ credit union.

Jennifer John