Monday, July 06, 2020
In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the AMAPCEO Board of Directors has voted unanimously to take the union’s Annual Delegates Conference (ADC) online for 2020.
The union joins hundreds of others in the labour movement in moving their annual convention online to protect the health and safety of its members.
The ADC is the union’s highest governing body, and consists of the 16 members of the Board, one delegate from each Broader Public Sector (BPS) bargaining unit, and one delegate for every 50 members in each geographic District. Elected AMAPCEO Delegates were informed of the Board’s decision last week.
The Board is working with staff and vendors to make the transition to the new format as smooth as possible. Originally scheduled for November 25–27, 2020, the dates may change to accommodate planning.
“We all enjoy gathering face-to-face to conduct union business and socialize with our fellow activists,” President Dave Bulmer said. “But we have to look out for one another, and the Board determined this solution is the safest and most equitable.”
This year’s ADC will feature all constitutionally mandated requirements, including a Board report, elections, and financial decisions (including the union’s 2021 Budget). Delegates will also consider any constitutional amendments, by-law ratifications, and Board motions that require their approval, of which there are typically few.
Following the AMAPCEO Constitution and Robert’s Rules of Order, and on the advice of the union’s Parliamentarian, service providers, and other unions, the Board decided not to consider resolutions at this year’s ADC. Instead, the Board will hold a special meeting ahead of the ADC dedicated to member resolutions—a step beyond what other unions are doing. Directors also decided that any resolution that is defeated may be re-submitted for reconsideration at the 2021 ADC, a measure not normally permitted.
“Grassroots democracy and equity are founding AMAPCEO principles,” Bulmer said. “The Board wishes for members to continue to help shape their union, and in the most equitable way possible.”
Resolutions are due by Monday, August 17, 2020 at noon ET. Details on how to write and submit a resolution are available on the AMAPCEO website.
“I continue to be impressed by the dedication, professionalism, and flexibility of AMAPCEO members, activists, and staff alike,” Bulmer said. “Must as we have all adapted to new ways of working and collaborating during these extraordinary times, I am confident that this year’s ADC will be a success. It will just look a little different.”