This page is maintained by the Rank and File (RAF) Caucus of AWU-CWA Local 9009. For questions, reach out to a RAF organizer. AWU-CWA Local 9009 is a member-run union. That means the decisions are made by members — at meetings, in votes, and through collective action. This page explains how meetings work and how you can participate.
Member meetings are open to all AWU-CWA members. This is where major union business is conducted: proposals are discussed and voted on, committees report back, and members set union direction. Member meeting agendas and minutes are posted on the union's file-sharing platform.
If you are in a geographic or workplace chapter, chapters hold their own meetings to discuss local organizing and issues. Chapter meetings are a great way to connect with coworkers in your area.
AWU has several standing committees (e.g., Finance, Platforms & Security, Trust and Safety) that meet regularly.
The Executive Board (elected officers) meets regularly to manage union operations. EB meeting agendas and minutes are available to members through union resources.
The union's upcoming meeting should be maintained on the AWU Public Events Calendar. This should include member meetings, chapter meetings, and public events. If the official AWU calendar isn't being maintained, reach out to us via Join RAF and we'll get you whatever information you need.
Meetings follow a written agenda distributed in advance. Members can typically submit agenda items before the meeting — check the meeting announcement for how to do this.
A quorum is the minimum number of members needed to conduct official business. If quorum is not met, formal votes cannot be taken. See the AWU Bylaws for quorum requirements.
Members can speak to agenda items by raising their hand (or using the meeting platform's hand-raise feature) and being recognized by the facilitator. Most meetings have time limits per speaker to ensure everyone can participate.
Votes are taken by show of hands, voice vote, or online poll depending on the meeting format. Most decisions require a simple majority. Some decisions (like bylaw changes) require a supermajority — see the Bylaws for specifics.
A motion is a formal proposal for the union to take action. Any member can make a motion. The basic process:
Tips: Be specific; think about who will carry it out; consider submitting motion text in advance; work with allies to line up support before the meeting.
During discussion, a member can propose an amendment to modify a motion. An amendment also needs a second and a vote. If it passes, the meeting votes on the amended version.
If you think something is happening incorrectly, raise a Point of Order — say "Point of order!" and the facilitator must address it immediately. Common procedural motions include:
Meeting minutes are recorded and posted for members to review. If you could not attend, review the minutes to stay informed. Reach out to an officer or committee member with questions about decisions.
Maintained by the RAF Caucus | Wiki Home | Content reflects RAF Caucus perspective and may not represent official AWU-CWA positions.