We, the members of District Council 16, of the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades, AFL-CIO, believing that organizing and collective action is necessary to foster and adopt ways and means for the continuous improvement of the working and living standards of the members of the Locals affiliated with this International Union; to secure legislation in the interests of our members; to bring about higher wages, shorter hours and better working conditions for them; to influence public opinion by peaceful and legal methods, in favor of our affiliated organizations and all organized labor generally; to promote, encourage and bring into existence satisfactory contractual relationships with employers in the industries from which the members of our affiliates are drawn; to advance and maintain better relations between our members and their employers; and to otherwise enrich the lives of our members and their families and all other working men and women.