Another reason for keeping stewards informed is that the stewards are the organizers of the union. If leaflets or buttons must be distributed it is usually the stewards who do it. When the elected officers need to know what the membership is thinking, it is the stewards that can find out. Regular monthly meetings are important. There needs to be a regular time when the finances of the union are reported to the membership, when votes are taken on workplace issues, etc.
Informal meetings can also be very important.
Many UE locals hold lunchtime meetings to inform the membership of important issues. This gives the union a chance to reach the biggest number of members quickly. It is also important not to rush to a vote before everyone has had time to think over an issue. Sometimes 20 or 30 minutes at lunch isn t enough. Two or more meeting might have to be held to give the members more time to think.