2020 DAV and Auxiliary National Convention CANCELED O ut of an abundance of caution for the health, safety and well-being of veterans, their families and guests, DAV’s National Executive Committee (NEC) canceled the 2020 DAV and Auxiliary National Convention scheduled to begin Aug. 1 in Dallas. The decision was made as a result of concerns related to the COVID-19 pandemic. “We conduct a lot of our most important business at the event, and we delayed making the decision in the hopes that the situation would have changed,” said National Adjutant Marc Burgess. “We put the health and safety of our veteran members, their families and our volunteers first. In the end, based on the guidance we received, we wouldn’t be able to effectively host an event that was accessible to our members.” The cancellation is the second in the 100-year history of the organization. In 1942, as the nation ramped up involvement in World War II, the event was also halted. As a result, there is a template in place for governance. DAV’s National Bylaws run from convention to convention. That means a second year in the top seat for National Commander Stephen “Butch” Whitehead and longer terms for national line officers until members convene in 2021. Because DAV members elect leaders and determine the organization’s legislative agenda at the national convention, mandates and resolutions adopted by delegates in 2019 will remain in effect (unless enacted) through 2021. The Bylaws mandate DAV protect benefits already in place for veterans and their dependents. As such, the National Executive Committee may adopt new resolutions specific to federal legislation. NEC members who currently represent even-numbered districts will be asked to serve a third year. Next year at convention, all districts will elect a new NEC member. Those in even-numbered districts will choose representatives for one-year terms. Odd-numbered districts will elect representatives for two-year terms. Other appointments made by the national commander or adjutant will remain in place. Vacancies that arise in this period will be handled as they would if they occurred any other time, in accordance with DAV governing documents. “We are fortunate to have great leaders in our ranks to help us weather this storm,” said Whitehead. “Most importantly, we should be proud of what we’ve overcome to continue serving veterans and their families with unemployment relief, employment resources and benefits advocacy. “I believe we’re going to come out of this a stronger, more connected community because we’ve been able to adjust to and overcome these challenges as a team.” A virtual event to recognize volunteers, honor outstanding leaders and provide educational resources for those who carry out DAV’s mission will be hosted digitally. The organization still plans to host a centennial celebration in Cincinnati in September. Updates on those events can be found at www.dav.org/centennial. DAV and the Auxiliary are scheduled to host the next national convention July 24–27, 2021, in Reno, Nev. n Don’t miss the 2020 virtual event! Updates to online activities and plans surrounding the 2020 convention will be posted on DAV’s website and social networks, so check back often. dav.org/events/2020-national-convention facebook.com/DAV twitter.com/DAVHQ | @DAVHQ instagram.com/DAVHQ linkedin.com/company/davhq youtube.com/DisabledVeterans
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2020 DAV and Auxiliary National Convention CANCELED
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