After a great “Steelworker” invocation by Father Kiley, delegates were treated to an opening video called “The Fighting Spirit” that brought everyone to the feet.

United Steelworkers International President Leo W. Gerard opened the 2011 Convention with a speech that touched on where we have been, where we are now and where we are going – Stand Up and Fight Back.

Senator Harry Reid from Nevada delivered a video message to welcome United Steelworker delegates to the USW 2011 Convention. He added his regrets for not attending the event due to longstanding obligations.

Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi addressed the delegates to the 2011 USW Constitutional Convention. Her speech touched on those areas that the middle class hold near and dear– Medicare, Social Security, Medicaid and of course … Jobs.

Armine Yalnizyan of The Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives spoke about the hits unions have taken and it’s up us to make the impossible possible.

Rock and roll and country music came together today with USW Local 6500 rapper Mike “O.B.” O’Brien and his song "One Day Longer."  This was one time when pointing the finger with arm extended had a different meaning.

USW delegates the the Constitutional Convention on Monday unanimously passed Resolution No. 4, "Our Union's Next Generation of Leaders," which lays out our plan for the future and to attract more young activists into the labor movement.