DAY ONE of the Convention focused on Political Action...
The 38th Constitutional Convention of the Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers International Union was called to order on Wednesday, July 28, 2010 by Local 31 (Long Beach, Calif.) Financial Secretary Doyle Townson. Serving as the Convention’s temporary chairman, Townson extended a warm welcome to delegates on behalf of the members of the BCTGM’s Western Conference, of which he serves as president.
The Convention opened with a special music video tribute to BCTGM members and the jobs they do. Singer Janine Valentine performed the U.S. and Canadian national anthems and BCTGM International Representative James Rivers delivered an inspirational invocation.
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Townson then turned the Chairmanship of the Convention over to BCTGM International President Frank Hurt with the presentation of a commemorative gavel.
Richard Trumka Speaks to the Convention
Focusing in on the day’s theme, Uniting to Win Legislative and Political Change, Trumka detailed labor’s efforts and battles in the political arena.
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“Two years ago, working Americans had the courage to elect a president whose very victory gave new life to our nation’s pledge to be ‘one nation, with liberty and justice for all.’ And over the last 18 months, President Obama has continued to make history.”
Trumka noted that such history includes fulfilling the six decade long struggle for health care coverage for all Americans; the most sweeping reforms of Wall Street since the Great Depression; extended unemployment compensation; and the enactment of a vital economic recovery plan.
“Not since Franklin D. Roosevelt told a trembling nation that we had nothing to fear but fear itself has a President taken office in such terrible times. Herbert Hoover left President Roosevelt the Great Depression. And George Bush left President Obama – and all Americans—the worst economy since those terrifying days,” Trumka said.
Download the Convention Reporter for Day 1 for more on Trumka's remarks
Danny Thompson, Executive Secretary-Treasurer of the Nevada AFL-CIO, addressed the convention and reminded delegates of the importance of supporting worker-friendly political candidates. “Stand up for what you believe. Stand up for politicians who will stand up for you,” said Thompson.