UFCW 1459 Member in Working Mass Article

UFCW 1459 Member Iris Scott shared their experience advocating for reforms at this year's UFCW convention in an article for Working Mass:

The 9th UFCW International Convention was both infuriating and inspiring – that was my experience as a rank-and-file member serving as a delegate and pushing for reform within UFCW (United Food and Commercial Workers International Union). The primary camps in opposition at the convention were the ironically named Members First uncontested slate fighting to maintain the status quo vs. the Essential Workers for Democracy (EW4D). Reformers got some significant wins with better strike benefits, a form of UFCW Board representation, and the creation of a new healthcare division. But some of our biggest priorities got voted down: one member one vote, first day strike pay, seats on the International board for rank and file workers, more investment in organizing, and others. The mental gymnastics by staff and local presidents needed to oppose these common sense pro-worker amendments was impressive. But since convention, EW4D has been hearing from workers all across the US and Canada who are inspired by what we are doing and want to get involved. 

People like Iris are ready to fight for democratic unions that truly meet the needs of today's workers. Read their full article in Working Mass.