COPE

Union political programs become increasingly important as political action committees formed by corporations and right wing interests rapidly expand their activities. Not only has the political funding of these groups increased at an alarming rate, but their organizational effectiveness has grown as well. They can be offset only by commensurate growth in the effectiveness and funding of COPE programs.

We encourage all our members to support our union political programs through the check-off of voluntary contributions. Only through a political check-off can labor's endorsed candidates obtain funds needed to remain competitive with their opponents, who are well financed through corporate and conservative interests.

We also encourage each of our locals to develop a COPE committee or similar political committee. Through our local union committees, more and more union members can be brought into our political action and education programs.

In addition, we would encourage increased communications with our members regarding major political issues and the records of office holders. (Executive Council)