International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers : Local Lodge 2003: CBTU Holds 37th Convention in St. Louis

CBTU Holds 37th Convention in St. Louis
================================================================================
IAM&AW International on May 30, 2008 03:21pm
 
“When we left Chicago last year we were ready to roll up our sleeves and go
back home to be a force to be reckoned with for the 2008 elections,” said IAM
Executive Assistant Diane Babineaux, who is CBTU Trustee and served as the
presiding officer for the opening day of the convention. “We are doing that.
CBTU members are visible in many communities, educating others about the issues
important to CBTU members and working families.”
Founded in 1972, CBTU has been a strong, independent voice for black trade
union members with more than 50 international and national unions represented,
dozens of chapters nationwide and one in Ontario, Canada.
“These elections will be unprecedented in the scale and scope of the
direction this country and its citizens will endure for many years to come,”
said CBTU President Bill Lucy. “We must do our part in determining what path
we take.”
IAM Midwest Territory Vice President Phil Gruber addressed the Convention,
welcoming delegates to St. Louis and speaking about the effect of the current
administration’s policies on Missouri and the nation. “We’ve all seen our
communities and neighbors suffer from the loss of good jobs and the steady
outsourcing of our industrial heritage,” said Gruber. “During the last eight
years, I think we’ve learned enough lessons that we’re ready to teach a few
of our own, starting on Election Day, 2008.”