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Contents

Welcome! This on-line pamphlet offers a brief introduction to UE's style of democratic, rank-and-file unionism. We emphasize membership involvement, local autonomy and a principled, aggressive approach to dealing with the boss.  It's a tradition we've maintained for more than 60 years — and one we'll continue well into the 21st century. Here are a few of the details about how and why UE works.

• Taking Aim: Some Background on Rank-and-File Unionism

  • Built from the bottom-up, UE has been an unusual union from the very beginning. Here's why we put such a strong emphasis on rank-and-file unionism.

• How UE Locals Work

  • We emphasize local autonomy and strong local unions. Here's how UE locals work — from negotiating contracts to helping set national UE policy.

• UE District Councils

  • Unlike most unions, UE district councils are made up of representatives from UE local unions, independent from the national union.

• The Annual National UE Convention

  • The highest decision making body in UE, the national convention is held yearly, made up of delegates from UE local unions. Delegates debate and set UE policy, engage in workshops and elect the union's top officers. Any constitutional amendments must be ratified by a majority of UE locals.

• The Structure and Functions of the National Union

  • The primary function of the national union is to organize new members, provide support for UE locals and work to improve the working and living conditions of all working people. Here's how it we do it.

"THIS BOOKLET has been prepared to serve as a guide in expanding the membership's understanding of the union's aims and structure.

From its beginning, UE has been based on the firm conviction that such understanding is vital to safeguarding the rank-and-file nature of the union."

-- Statement from the original edition of "UE Aims and Structure"

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