* UAW ARAB WORKERS CAUCUS PROGRAM *
to the UAW 24th CONSTITUTIONAL CONVENTION
This year, 1974, is the first year the Arab Workers Caucus is participating in the UAW Constitutional Conventon [sic] elections. We believe that we represent not only the special needs of the Arab workers, but the feelings of all workers who believe changes need to be made to remedy inequities and lack of representation.
We, therefore, raise the following proposals hoping that all workers will support us:
1. ORGANIZATIONAL:
We demand DIRECT ELECTION by the entire UAW membership of their leadership with FULL MINORITY REPRESENTATION.
2. WORKING CONDITIONS:
We demand
a. A full time doctor for each shift.
b. A full time qualified union medical official who has the power to override the decisions of the Company Doctor.
c. Prior union approval before any production standard changes.
d. Workers have the right to portable pensions within the auto industry.
e. locals have the final word to call strikes.
3. MINORITY (ETHNIC) RIGHTS:
a. Translators should be available for different ethnic workers in plants and services.
b. Training programs for ethnic groups should be established and publicized.
c. Leaves of absence should be extended for ethnic workers visiting families outside the U.S. No dismissal of workers on leave of absence outside U.S. until given a fair hearing.
d. Dismissal of company or union officials found guilty of racial, ethnic, discrimination.
4. UAW AND THE WORLD:
a. We demand an immediate disposition of Israeli bonds purchased by the UAW. These bonds are used to build the Israeli economy and strengthen its military might. The state of Israel is based on the principles of colonialism and expansonism [sic]. Israel supports militarily and economically, the racist regimes of Rhodesia and South Africa (by supporting its army and developing its diamond industry — an industry that exploits thousands of blacks). Above all this, the bonds are a terribly bad investment (5½% interest only).
b. Subsequently, we demand an immediate end to all relations between the UAW and the SEMI-LABOR Israeli organization, Histradut. The Histradut is made up of workers and businessmen and is controlled by the same group of racist, militaristic leaders of Israel.
c. UAW should stand firmly in support of all workers and people struggling in Africa, Asia and Latin America. In the Middle East, the UAW should support the principle of establshing [sic] a secular, non-theocratic, democratic state in Palestine for all people, Jews and Arabs, and stand against any outside intervention.
UAW-ARAB WORKERS CAUCUS
(Labor Donated)
* VOTE FOR THE ARAB WORKERS CAUCUS DELEGATES IN YOUR PLANT
