Delivering information when you need it most. March 1998 Vol. 1 No. 6 Page 6

National Association of Letter Carriers FLATIRONS BRANCH 642 1530 55TH STREET BOULDER, COLORADO 80303 303-442-8067 "Let me add, that a bill of rights is what the people are entitled to and what no just government should refuse or rest on inference." Thomas Jefferson

Brothers and Sisters, At the last two national conventions, our branch has proposed the "Members Bill of Rights" amendment to be added to the NALC Constitution. Unfortunately, the recommendation by the Resolution Committee was one of disapproval. The committee argued that the 'Members Bill of Rights' "gives the impression that the rights listed in the preamble (proposed amendment) do not exist in the NALC now." We do not disagree with this statement, but what about the future? Can we predict what and who will be governing the NALC in ten or twenty-years from now. One argument over the adoption of the United States Constitution, was the fact that there was no Bill of Rights. One side stated that a Bill of Rights was not necessary because the U.S. Constitution already provides us those rights, while the other side argued that because there was no mention of those rights in the Constitution, basic rights could not be guaranteed. Could you imagine what would have occurred if those rights were not amended into the constitution? Approving the "Members Bill of Rights" would strengthen democracy, and ensure present and future carriers that these rights will always be guaranteed. I am enclosing a copy of the proposed amendment that was approved by our Branch and the Colorado State Association. We are seeking as many Cosponsors as possible. Please read this proposed amendment carefully, and if you agree that a "Members Bill of Rights" should be added to the NALC constitution, please seek your branch's approval for consideration at your next membership meeting. If your branch accepts this proposed amendment, please send three (3) copies with original signatures to; NALC, Secretary/Treasurer 100 Indiana Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20001 Thank you for your consideration, and if have any questions or concerns please call me at 1-303-442-8067. In solidarity, Ray M. Tillman, President. Proposed Preamble to the NALC Constitution Consideration by Delegates at the 1998 NALC National Convention, Las Vegas, NV MEMBERS' BILL OF RIGHTS All members in good standing shall have equal rights and privileges in the Union and every member shall have these rights subject to the provisions of this Constitution and to the following: 1. Every NALC member has the right to be respected as a sister or brother of this union. 2. Every member has the right to express any views, arguments or opinions; and to express views upon the policies and business of the Union both locally and nationally. 3. Every member has the right to be heard regardless of their views on any particular issue. 4. Every member has the freedom to listen or not listen. 5. Every member has the right to publish newspapers and handbills. 6. Every member shall have the right to nominate candidates, vote in all elections and referendums, seek office, to attend membership meetings of their local and to participate in the discussions, deliberations and voting upon business of such meetings. 7. Every member has the right to support the candidate of his/her choice and to meet and assemble freely with others without retribution. 8. No member shall be discriminated against, either in their union activities or employment because of race, creed, color, gender, nationality, religion, age, marital status, political beliefs and sexual orientation. 9. Every member has the right to a full, fair and impartial hearing. 10. Every member has the right to be secure in his or her basic rights without fear of political, economic, or any other forms of intimidation. As submitted by NALC, Branch: _____________ As approved during the general membership meeting of: _____________ President: __________________________ Secretary: __________________________

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