April 2023

As we move forward with new leadership in the UAW and enter in negotiations for the big 3 and others, I want to encourage you that we are all in this together. History is being made and you are a part of it.

Everyone cares about something, and everyone has a voice. Attend your local meetings and join a committee. During my time as vice president of my unit, I have had opportunities to engage in conversations with the membership at my local and others. It has been an honor and pleasure, to interact with intelligent, kind, generous, humorous individuals.

As negotiations, begin be sure to let your leadership know what matters to you. Put some thought into and ask leadership for clear and simple information. Here are somethings all workers care about but maybe you can think of others.

*Job security,

*Health and safety

*Retirement and pension,

*Wages

*Medical, vision, dental, hearing aides, long term care insurance.

*Dignity and respect on the job.

*Education/on the job training

Remember, we the membership are the UAW. Make your voice count.

In America, we encourage young people to seek higher education.  As they progress from an under graduate 4 year degree and move to graduate programs, jobs become available that require a certain level of knowledge. Graduate Research assistants are told they are getting hands on experience in their field of study. Meanwhile, these students are still responsible for housing, food, and transportation with little to no compensation.

We must work together to improve work conditions for all members across all sectors.