Are you ready for another ALA National Convention? We are looking forward to once again hosting our largest gathering of members, guests, and distinguished speakers. 
 
The 101st event will be held in Milwaukee, Aug. 26 to Sept. 1, the same time and place as the 103rd convention of The American Legion, which is required per the ALA’s National Constitution. 
 
Annually, about 9,000 members of The American Legion Family attend National Convention, which includes conventions for The American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary, and Sons of The American Legion, as well as The American Legion Riders Legacy Run (click here to check out National President Kathy Daudistel’s Legacy Run experience thus far!). 

The purpose of our National Convention is to elect officers, receive reports, and conduct the business of the organization as required by the ALA National Constitution, Bylaws, and Standing Rules. Part of that business is conducted by the National Executive Committee, the national board of directors of the ALA with fiduciary, policy, and strategic responsibility for the organization. The 2021-2022 NEC meets before convention and the new 2022-2023 NEC is convened by the newly elected national president for the first time after convention.
 
As part of convention, there are several proposed amendments to the ALA National Constitution, Bylaws, and Standing Rules that will be considered this year. The list of amendments that will come before the National Convention body include a variety of topics ranging from updating the organization’s articles of incorporation to clarifying the purpose of several committees to a proposed dues increase. To learn more about the need for a dues increase to keep the ALA operating at a level that continues to serve our veterans, military, and their families, read the ALA blog. 
 
In addition to business, the week is also about celebrating the accomplishments from the 2021-2022 administrative year! Opening session begins Monday, Aug. 29. Each day, national committee chairs will share what the various ALA programs accomplished throughout the past administrative year, often inspiring and motivating members to continue focusing on the mission.
 
Several major ALA awards are also presented at National Convention to honor outstanding successes in service to veterans, military, and their families, both within the ALA and out in the community. Stay tuned to the ALA website and social media channels to learn more about a few of this year’s award winners. 
 
At the end of the week, the offices of president, vice president, division vice presidents, chaplain, and historian are elected by National Convention delegates on Wednesday and installed thereafter. Click here to learn about the 2022-2023 candidates for national office. 

During the week, convention attendees also have the opportunity to help ensure the ALA mission endures by donating to the American Legion Auxiliary Foundation’s #GivingTuesday campaign. Those who cannot attend in person can still donate to the cause. 

For both in person and virtual attendees, the second annual silent auction fundraiser benefiting the American Legion Auxiliary Foundation will be part of this year’s convention. Bidding starts Aug. 29, and the auction closes at 9 p.m. Central Time Aug. 31. View the items here. 
 
For those who are unable to attend National Convention in person, don’t worry — we have you covered! Be sure to watch our livestream and follow us on social media @ALAforVeterans for the latest updates. Can’t watch it live? Video will be archived so you can watch it at your convenience. 
 
For more details on this year’s National Convention, including information for virtual pre-convention committee meetings, general attendees, national officers, Past National Presidents, national chairmen, NEC, department presidents, and department secretaries, visit www.ALAforVeterans.org/convention. To stay connected through social media for the event, use the hashtag #AuxCon22. 

We look forward to seeing you in Milwaukee! 
 
By Sara Fowler, Staff Writer