Maine AFL-CIO Biennial Convention — Oct. 23-24

PHOTO: Cynthia Phinney & Carol Sanborn present Ellen Campbell, (IAM S89) with the 2023 President's Award.

The Maine AFL-CIO will be holding our 35th Biennial Convention this year on Thursday and Friday, October 23 - 24, in Bangor.

At the convention we will make important decisions that will guide our organization for the next two years. The agenda will include discussions on how to handle AI in bargaining, what should Labor prioritize, how to meet this moment, our Labor 2026 work, breakout workshops, a keynote address and lots more. We'll also elect a new executive board to serve for the next two years.

We hope to have every affiliated union represented! If you are interested in participating from your union, contact your union president or business manager.

A convention mailing was sent out to all affiliated Presidents. Unions are encouraged to register by October 13, 2025 (and the sooner the better – it really helps us!).  

This year’s convention will be honoring a great set of award recipients - see below. Union members and allies are invited to attend the Banquet Dinner & awards ceremony on the evening of Thursday, October 23rd. More info to come.

Working Class Hero Award:Linda Deane, USW 900 retired, for organizing her community during the International Paper Strike of 1987-88, leading the USW Women of Steel, and developing the vision for the Local 14 Solidarity Center to become a hub for labor education, community and learning.

Solidarity Award:Machinists Local S6 for walking picket lines for workers from Baileyville to Portland, being steadfast supporters of the formation of our A. Philip Randolph Institute chapter and always participating in the broader labor movement.

President’s Award:Ronnie Green, Professional Firefighters of Maine&IAFF 772 retired, for serving on the Maine AFL-CIO Executive board, always engaging the legislative process, keeping the IAFF connected with the Maine AFL-CIO, supporting IAFF locals and members across a large region and doing the important work of serving on the Maine Workers’ Compensation Board.

Edie Beaulieu Legislative Award:  Sen. Mike Tipping (D – Penobscot) for leading on labor issues in Augusta, championing legislation to provide retirement security to mental health workers at state psychiatric facilities, bringing an organizing framework to the Legislature and showing up to support workers' rights and economic justice.

Shop Steward of the Year:To be Announced. Please nominate stewards here.