Departments

Elisabeth Reuther Dickmeyer
P.O. Box 564
Lake Orion, MI48361
248-693-8832

December 4, 2004

Dear UA W Local Union President,

First of all, thank you for being a leader in the UA W's struggles for American jobs and worker dignity. I know the importance of what you are doing as my father was Walter Reuther. Growing up, I witnessed the crucial gains the UAW brought to American workers, their families and the whole community. Today, many younger workers enjoy these benefits but do not understand where they came from. That's why I wrote my new book, Putting the World Together: My Father Walter Reuther - The Liberal Warrior.

The book is a memoir about growing up with my mother and father, intertwined with the history of your great union, the UA W. David Bonior wrote the Foreward, Millie Jeffrey, Victor Reuther and Doug Fraser added commentaries. It's a powerful educational tool to help today's workers understand all the UAW is doing for them. Knowing the UAW's proud history will increase their commitment to the union and your causes.

Your union initiated benefits like health care and pensions for American workers that then rippled to industries all across America, creating the great American middle class. Your union also led the fight for civil rights, gender equality, a clean environment and much more. Unfortunately, today's media gives the labor movement very little credit for how it has benefited society. My book educates and reminds America and the world how today's labor movement is the conscience of our country. As such, we are deeply tied to our democracy's strength.

Enclosed are two reviews from the Detroit News and Oakland Press. I would be most appreciative if you would write a review for your local union newspaper, so your members can find out more about their proud heritage as told in my compelling story.

Many union leaders are using the book as a gift, to recognize their members, as well as putting copies in their local libraries. UAW local unions get a 25 percent discount when ordering a case (20 books). Orders can be made from the information at the bottom of the enclosed yellow flyer. (Please specify if you'd like the book signed, and to whom.) Or you can call me directly at (248) 693-8832. I'll send out your order immediately. I'm also available as a speaker and for book signings, as I'm inspired to educate workers about the critical role labor unions play in today's world. Keep up your good work!

In Solidarity,

Elisabeth Reuther Dickmeyer