Delegates reconvened for the fourth day of the NPMHU National Convention with Rick King of Local 318 opening the session with an inspiring invocation.
Next on the agenda was the conclusion of the delegates’ review of proposals to amend the Constitution. While the delegates had passed each of the Constitution Committee’s recommended proposals on Wednesday, delegates were given the opportunity to make the case for the amendments that had not been recommended for adoption by the Committee. While no additional amendments were adopted, delegates carefully considered each other’s ideas and engaged in respectful and spirited debate.
The Resolutions Committee, chaired by Lawrence Sapp, took the floor to go over the submissions they recommended for adoption and to provide the rationale for those they did not. These resolutions are the product of a collective effort of members across the country, and the NPMHU is excited to act upon them in the years ahead.
Following the delegates’ consideration of those resolutions, Chairperson Sapp, on stage for the last time, took a moment to leave the assembled delegates with an important and powerful reminder: the NPMHU is a strong Union because of the strength of its members, and the membership should be proud of the Union’s powerful reputation. Thank you again to Vice President Sapp for his dedicated service to the NPMHU.
Susie Martinez, the current Executive Secretary-Treasurer of the Nevada State AFL-CIO, delivered remarks lauding Postal Service workers for prevailing over difficult circumstances.
President Paul Hogrogian then introduced the Women’s Committee: a committee chaired by June Harris, which was established to empower the Union to advocate for equity and justice in the workplace. The Women’s Committee provides a crucial perspective to the Union. As Vice President Harris made clear, the Union can only be successful when all its members are seen and heard.
Legislative and Political Director Katie Maddocks delivered an update on the political work of the Union. The Union is grateful for the work of President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, and other allies in the Senate and the House. She laid out the facts plainly: one of the tickets in the upcoming presidential election is pro-labor, while the other is not. In 75 days, NPMHU members will have the opportunity to vote for their rights on the ballot. Until then, they should check that they are registered to vote, sign up to vote by mail, and mobilize others to do the same.
June Harris delivered the report of the Legislative and Political Committee. Like the Resolutions Committee, this Committee carefully considered the proposals submitted by members from across the County to help advance and move forward the Union’s agenda before Congress and the public at large. The resolution to endorse Vice President Kamala Harris and Governor Tim Walz was successfully passed! The NPMHU is excited to stand by the candidates who have stood by them.
After wrapping up business, delegates gathered for their group and regional photos, showing their spirit (and good looks) with custom Local attire. Energy remains high as we approach the last day of the Convention.
