Convention: Purpose, What Happens, and Why Your Participation Matters

Convention is the highest decision‑making body of our union. Every three years, delegates from across the country come together to review our By‑Laws and Policies, debate resolutions, and approve the budget that guides UNE’s work. In a regular cycle, Convention is also when delegates elect the National Executive.

This year, delegates will carry out the same important Convention work. Because UNE is currently placed under Trusteeship, the election for the National Executive may take place at a later date. If that happens, only members who are accredited as delegates for the 2026 Convention will be able to vote — even if the vote occurs on a different day. This Convention is especially important. The decisions we make in August 2026 will help set the foundation for how we rebuild and move forward as a strong, member‑focused union. Your involvement — whether as a delegate, a resolution writer, or an engaged member — truly makes a difference.

Union of National Employees: A Union Like No Other

We represent over 23,000 members working in 73 different workplaces, with as many collective agreements. Our members work in the public sector, the private sector, and the non‑profit sector. They work in every region of this country — and even around the world.

This diversity is one of our greatest strengths. But it also means that democracy is essential to how we function. We need voices from every workplace, every region, and every type of job to help shape the decisions that affect all of us.

That’s why your participation matters so much.

And that’s also why we extended the registration deadline — because not all Locals have sent someone yet, and we don’t want anyone to miss the opportunity to take part in the Convention that represents you.

What Happens at Convention

In August, delegates work together to make decisions that guide UNE for the next three years. They will:

  • Debate and vote on resolutions submitted by group of members
  • Approve the budget that sets our priorities and supports our activities

These decisions shape how we support members, how we grow, and how we continue building a strong, inclusive union.

Why Your Resolutions Matter

Resolutions are one of the most important tools members have to influence the direction of UNE.

A resolution is simply an idea or proposal for change. It can be something you want to improve, something you want to add, or something you want the union to do differently.

Every resolution submitted is reviewed by the appropriate Convention Committee before the Convention:

  • Finance Committee
  • General Committee
  • By‑Laws and Policies Committee

Each resolution is evaluated, discussed, and prioritized for debate at Convention.
If you have ideas for improving our union, this is your moment to share them.
 Click here to learn how to write and submit a resolution.

Deadline Update

You haven’t registered yet — you still can.

You haven’t sent a resolution yet – you still can.

We want you there. Your voice, your experience, and your perspective matter.

Convention is stronger when all members are represented, and we want every Local to have the chance to participate.
Click here to see the requirements for a Local to send at least two members to Convention.

You can register until May 29th 2026.

Thank You for Being Part of This Journey

Convention is where we come together to make decisions that shape the future of UNE, and an excellent opportunity to connect with fellow activists and build lasting relationships. Whether you’re attending as a delegate, submitting a resolution, or simply learning more about the process, your involvement strengthens our union.