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Helpful information for first-time delegates to the 45th AFSCME Convention

When does the day start and end?
Convention business is conducted per the convention rules, which have not yet been determined. However, convention activities typically start around 9 a.m. or 10 a.m. and end by late afternoon. Some activities, like workshops, sector caucuses and elections, will be held before or after convention business.

Are there convention activities on Saturday or Sunday?
The convention officially begins on Monday, July 11, at 10 a.m. However, a few committees will meet during the weekend prior to the convention opening. Saturday and Sunday are great days to explore the exhibit space, register for convention, get your convention bag, and meet up with others.

What happens in the evenings?
At the conclusion of convention business and related activities, like workshops, the evenings are for you to enjoy with your union siblings.

How are committee members selected?
Committee members are appointed by President Saunders, with the approval of the International Executive Board. Committee meetings are open to all delegates who wish to observe committees conducting their business.

Will we receive any convention materials before arriving?
Upon arriving in Philadelphia, all delegates and alternates will receive a convention bag that will have all the materials needed to participate in the convention. Many of these materials are also available on the convention website (convention.afscme.org) and the convention app.

Where can I get the convention app for my smart device?
You can find the app on the Apple app store or Google Play store on your phone or tablet by searching the word “AFSCME” or you may download the app at: https://AFSCME.org/app

Where do alternates sit?
Alternates have their own seating area in the convention hall separate from the delegates. Alternates will be able to observe all convention business but are not eligible to participate in discussions or votes.

What convention activities can guests participate in?
Guests may observe all aspects of the convention, including workshops, and participate in activities and events in the exhibit space.

Can I bring something to eat or drink during convention business?
Yes. Delegates, alternates and guests are permitted to bring food and drinks into the convention hall.

How do you handle food allergies, translation for non-English speakers or other special requests?
When you pre-register for convention, you can note any food allergies, translation needs, and make other requests. If you have already pre-registered, you can go back into the registration system and let us know what special services you need. You will need your confirmation number.

How do I register for workshops?
There is no pre-registration for workshops this year. Delegates and alternates should simply go to the workshops they are interested in attending. However, please note, there are capacity limits for each workshop, so get there early. All workshops will be offered twice during the convention week.

Can I use union business leave to attend the convention?
Your entitlement to union business leave to attend the convention is dictated by your collective bargaining agreement. Contact your local or council to determine if you are eligible.

I’m my local’s “chairperson.” What does that mean?
Local unions with more than two delegates attending the convention should select one delegate to serve as the local’s chairperson. In the event the local’s voting strength cannot be distributed evenly among all the registered delegates, the chairperson will carry and cast any additional votes in an election.

Is there a dress code?
No, but AFSCME shirts (or anything green) are always in style!

If I’m driving to the convention, will I have to pay for parking at the convention center?
Yes.

Will there be a vaccination requirement at the convention?
Convention attendees are not required to be fully vaccinated. However, those who are will be asked to show proof of vaccination. Attendees who are not fully vaccinated will be required to test daily at AFSCME’s Testing Center and provide proof of a negative test result prior to entering convention areas.

What is considered “fully vaccinated”?
Fully vaccinated means the attendee has received two shots of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines OR one shot of Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

How can I show proof of my vaccination status?
Fully vaccinated attendees are encouraged to use the “CLEAR Health Pass” app daily. This app will allow attendees to provide vaccination verification. It will also speed entry into the convention and related events. To download the Clear Health Pass, go to: https://clear.app.link/AFSCME

On-site assistance will be available to attendees who have any difficulties with the app. If you do not use the CLEAR Health Pass, other forms of vaccination verification will be accepted with a legal ID, but this may delay entry into the convention and related events.

What if I am not fully vaccinated?
For those who are not fully vaccinated, daily antigen testing will be provided by medical staff at AFSCME’s designated testing locations. There are two AFSCME Testing Centers:

Are masks required at the convention?
To help keep all of us safe, everyone should be masked while attending convention-related events. Masks should be well-fitting and always worn over the mouth and nose, except while speaking to the convention at a microphone, or actively eating or drinking. Masks will be included in the convention kits and available at the information booth.

Will the convention be screening for symptoms of COVID-19?
All convention attendees must complete a daily health survey. For those using the CLEAR Health Pass, the survey will be in the app. For those testing, the survey will be verbal and offered by staff.

What if I have a positive COVID test?
Please call the health and safety hotline at 1-800-209-7548.

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