Uncategorized
2012 Elections
WHEREAS, there will be a presidential election for U.S. president in 2012; and
WHEREAS, there are crucial elections at local, state and federal levels in 2011 and 2012; and
WHEREAS, the need for our Joint Councils and local unions to be more politically active has never been greater; and
WHEREAS, opponents of working families spend millions of dollars annually to influence candidates and to promote an anti-worker agenda; and
WHEREAS, through Teamster grassroots political action and voter education the union and its members can defeat those enemies; and
WHEREAS, the turnout of union members and union households can make the difference in elections; and
WHEREAS, without a strong turnout of pro-union voters, the social safety net of Medicare, Medicaid, the Railroad Retirement Act and Social Security could be in jeopardy; and
WHEREAS, a strong middle class is necessary for a strong country, and a strong labor movement is the link between the two; and
WHEREAS, nearly every federal, state and local race has implications for the Teamsters Union and Teamster members; and
WHEREAS, it is imperative that all Joint Councils and local unions participate in a coordinated effort with each other and with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters’ election program in order to have the proper representation at all levels of
government;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that every Joint Council and local union commit to educating their membership on the importance of politics in protecting their jobs, benefits and safety; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that all local unions and Joint Councils will have candidates for office submit candidate questionnaires to ensure educated decisions and accountability; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Joint Councils and local unions will designate political coordinators to ensure that political information is disseminated in a timely manner, to organize member-to-member campaigns in an efficient and cost effective manner and to build relationships with elected officials; and
FINALLY, BE IT RESOLVED, that this commitment will provide the ability to have Teamsters’ voices heard in the political process and be supportive of candidates who are committed to improving the quality of life of Teamster membership and their
families.