One of the striking features of UE’s 79th National Convention, with the theme “One Voice, One Fight, One Future,” was the large number of delegates attending for the first time. Their reflections capture the energy and perspective of a new generation of UE leaders, a reflection of UE’s rapid growth over the past few years and the vitality of newer generations, many graduate workers, who are stepping into leadership.
“This has been a great learning experience. The workshop on Building Union Power really stood out, because that’s something I take very seriously and want to build on at my local. Talking with new and longtime delegates, hearing all the different stories, it shows me that UE is more than just my shop. It’s nationwide, with everyone showing the same support and love for each other.”
—Ricardo Moreno, Local 684
“Very different, very informative. I’ve been a steward for over 22 years and thought I knew everything, but I’ve learned so much here. The workshops are incredible, and meeting so many different locals has blown me away. I even exchanged phone numbers and invited people to visit our hall. And I loved seeing the women’s session. If you ever get the chance to attend, come; it’s worth it. Would I come back? Yes. I enjoyed myself. ”
—Tina Barnes, Local 506
“The real thing delegates give out here is knowledge; knowledge of how to be a union organizer, and how UE works. I didn’t come from a background in rank-and-file unionism, so hearing people’s stories about forming their unions has been incredible. I’m excited to bring that perspective back to Stanford and make our union even more kick-ass than it already is.”
—Paul Markley, Local 1043
“I had no idea what to expect, but everyone here has been so welcoming. I haven’t run into one rude person, and it’s been amazing to be surrounded by so many strong, passionate people who believe in the union. I don’t usually like being away from home, but I wouldn’t have missed this for anything.”
—Kala Collett, Local 728
“It’s been more emotional than I expected, hearing about the struggles other locals are facing. For me, it was humbling to hear about the women’s movement and how we’re fighting so strongly. Starting a women’s committee at our local is close to my heart, and I’m excited to take back what I’ve learned here.”
—Tonia Bohman, Local 506
“It’s an honor to be here, learning the ins and outs of how everything is done. This union is about making sure we’re one, and being here reminded me of that. We’ve got to be on one accord, because that’s what we are, one union.”
—Vanessa Jones, Local 506
“As a new organizer, being here has been incredibly inspiring. It is hard to find a space to share your voice, but the welcoming atmosphere here gave me the confidence to speak not just for myself but for my members. Through the workshops and through meeting people from all over, I’m leaving as a much stronger organizer than when I arrived.”
—John Hutchinson, Local 1105
“I didn’t really know what to expect, but this convention has been empowering. Hearing speakers like the mayor of Chicago and Bernie Sanders gave me hope. I didn’t realize how involved I’d be in the processes here: voting, speaking, and being on committees. It reminded me that this is a class struggle we’re in together, and I could really feel the strength of UE at this convention.”
—Julius Thomas, Local 667
“It’s easy to get wrapped up in the struggles of your own local, but hearing the challenges others are facing gave me a valuable perspective. I’m grateful to have been chosen to represent my local. The things I learned, including the training from Kim Lawson, are incredibly valuable, and I’m bringing them home to strengthen our union.”
—Ben Pituch, Local 506
These first-time delegates brought both fresh perspectives and renewed energy to UE’s National Convention. Their reflections highlight the UE’s power not just as a decision-making body, but as a space for solidarity and to grow stronger together.