We completed our 23rd Constitutional Convention a few weeks ago on September 17. It’s a major event, setting the tone and direction of the union for the next four years. When it’s in session, the Convention is the major governing body of our union.


It’s pretty exciting too. We hear some passionate speeches from the floor, as well as the podium. There’s time to spend with brothers and sisters we haven’t seen in awhile. And we were all inspired by the videos and other presentations linking our union to its glorious 75-year history. (This issue of the Express and our web site, twu.org, feature extensive coverage of the Convention.)


But, the real business of the Convention is through the dozens of resolutions that are debated and adopted. Through them, we recommit ourselves to supporting equal rights for all Americans (Racial, Ethnic & Gender Diversity), protecting workers’ ability to form unions (Employee Free Choice Act) and securing bargaining rights (Stop “Right-to-Work,” “Amend 
Taylor Law”).


We also weigh in on the big issues confronting our country: the economy, health care reform, education, the environment, globalization, Social Security, childcare and others.


Many issues directly affect us on the job: transportation security and funding, workplace health and safety, outsourced aircraft maintenance, pension protection, organizing, supporting passenger rail, etc.


I know that President Little and the other top officers, including myself, are committed to moving forward our agenda on all these fronts. But, I also know that resolutions will amount to little more than good intentions without one key ingredient: You, the member.


I urge you to work with us over the next four years to make our resolutions a reality. Vote, of course, but also become active in politics and contribute to our COPE program. Call or e-mail your representatives in Congress and state legislatures when important issues come up. Sign up for our e-activist newsletters on twu.org. Think about becoming a volunteer organizer; it will strengthen our union and our labor movement. Be active in your community.


One of the themes of the Convention was “Building on Our Legacy.” The next four years will be exciting ones. Together, we can make sure TWU founder Mike Quill’s prediction continues to come true: “The best is yet to come.”