Resolution: 71A-09-10
Approved: June 23, 2009
At the 2005 Convention in Chicago, the delegates were introduced to the Next Generation concept. The Next Generation was a movement both to mentor new leaders and the next generation of rank-and-file within our diverse membership. This progressive idea unfortunately did not realize its full potential. With the dawn of the Employee Free Choice Act on the horizon, we will see significant growth in union membership not only nationwide, but within CWA.
Our dynamic and diverse union must take proactive measures to cultivate a union that will adapt with the current generation mix.
The demographic in our membership is evolving and there is a need to bridge the gap between generations. Each generation has different values, different perceptions of authority, and different views of what is important in life in general. This is what is known as the generation gap. We must meet the challenges of the current reality and ensure that the Next Generation concept is brought to life and sustained.
Resolved: CWA will create a Next Generation Committee appointed by the officers at the national level that will report to the officers and also to the 2010 Convention delegates.
Resolved: The Committee will be composed of members representing the different generations and will address issues including, but not limited to:
- Changes in worker mobility and service longevity that have occurred in the past decade due to the job market and what this means for the way the union operates.
- New organizing and mobilization opportunities for the union through social networking (Twitter, Facebook, MySpace, blogs, texting, other online networks and new media).
- Getting the word out to future officers and activists about the union’s resources and opportunities in training, mentoring, and communications. These include but are not limited to organizing institutes, leadership schools, higher-education programs, and the Minority Leadership Institute.
- Recruiting and training of younger and newer activists for CWA’s expanded organizing programs.
Resolved: CWA leadership at all levels will make a conscious effort to engage, support and nurture newer and younger activists in order to ensure that the union survives and thrives.