Join VCAP
The UAW Voluntary Community Action Program (VCAP) is our union’s member-supported political fund. Thousands of UAW members make monthly VCAP contributions to support pro-worker political initiatives and candidates who earn our members' endorsement.
"There’s a direct relationship between the ballot box and the bread box, and what the union fights for and wins at the bargaining table can be taken away in the legislative halls.”
– Walter Reuther, UAW President (1946-1970)
Why is VCAP important?
Political leverage in Washington and our state capitols can strengthen our position at the bargaining table, and it can help win victories beyond bargaining. It's essential to build political power because state and federal law shape the rights and working conditions of unions like ours.
In today’s political climate, with a resurgent and organized right-wing movement and an all-out attack on the working class by corporate greed, workers need to consider every source of leverage available to build power. By supporting progressive legislative campaigns and candidates whose platforms support the working class, workers can gain the upper hand in our fight for dignified working conditions.
Our employers spend millions on their lobbyists. A strong VCAP program means UAW members' voices can be heard to advance our own vision for the working class: fair compensation for our labor, health care and retirement security, and accessible education for all.
Contribution Levels
Region 9A members who donate monthly to VCAP will receive UAW swag!
- Any amount — button
- $5/month — tote bag
- $10/month — baseball cap
- $25/month — quarter-zip sweatshirt
- $50+/month — USA-made bomber jacket
Frequently Asked Questions
How do we decide where VCAP money goes, and who decides?
The Community Action Program (CAP) is the legislative and political arm of our Region, with councils in Puerto Rico, Massachusetts, Maine, New York, Connecticut, and Rhode Island (and soon New Hampshire and Vermont). Each local has representatives on your states’ CAP/PAC councils, and all members are welcome to attend meetings. Our CAP/PAC councils vote on endorsing campaigns, causes, and candidates.
Do I have to contribute to VCAP to get involved with CAP?
Not at all—all members are welcome and encouraged to get involved with our political work.
Is VCAP partisan?
No—our union supports candidates with pro-labor and progressive values, not just a party platform. For example, we have supported challengers to incumbent Democrats many times, including our own member New York Assembly Member Claire Valdez.
Are international workers allowed to contribute to VCAP?
Sometimes—although there are limits on political contributions by non-citizens, lawful permanent residents (also known as green card holders) as well as U.S. citizens are permitted to contribute to VCAP.
Regardless of your ability to contribute financially, many international workers are active in UAW's political program to organize coworkers around political issues, make lobby visits, and encourage fellow members to contribute to VCAP.
What is the difference between VCAP contributions and dues that go to CAP?
VCAP is voluntarily-given PAC funds that are contributed towards external candidates. CAP is part of your dues and is used to support other political activities, but cannot be used toward candidate elections.