UAW dissenters speak out

June 18, 2006

BY JASON ROBERSON

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Today, as throughout the union's history, UAW dissidents passionately and sometimes articulately push causes ranging from greater democracy within the union to a stronger voice for retirees and more openness about the details of contract negotiations.

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The UAW has a tradition of internal strife. In the union's 71-year history, the dissenting arguments of the day often served as historical markers, particularly during World War II and the 1960s.

Despite popular arguments of the times, the UAW's leadership, from Walter Reuther to Ron Gettelfinger, has held fast to the belief that the union is a one-party state. History shows that changes in the UAW's direction run from the top down.

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"The whole idea that the administration caucus has become a one-party state ... they've denied the union the opportunity to evaluate itself, against the backdrop of its members," Tucker (leader of the New Directions Movement, which started in fall 1985 and gradually gained momentum, challenging the union's administration caucus) added.

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http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060618/BUSINESS01/606180592
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For an understanding of the modern labor union, the article recommends: "Detroit: I Do Mind Dying," by Dan Georgakas and Marvin Surkin.

That the membership is speaking out is a definite sign of life for the UAW.

Anyone ever had a chance to attend, or heard about ILWU meetings? They are often loud and confrontational and (to me anyway) are the purist example of Democracy in action.