National lulaccbp-DENTON Denton Council 4366
The Constitution, Bylaws,
and Protocol of the
League of United
Latin American Citizens
All for One—One forAll
(All our bylaws are based on National's ByLaws.A complete pdf of these can be downloaded at:
https.Illulac.org/programslyouth/lulaccbp pdf. Those marked LULAC#4366 are specific to this council)
LULACPRAYER
Almighty God,who has given us this good land for our heritage, we humbly beseech Thee that
we may prove ourselves a people mindful of Thy favor and glad to do Thy will. Bless our
land with honorable industry,sound learning and pure manners.Save us from violence,discord and
confusion; from pride and arrogance, and from every evil way. Defend our liberties and fashion
into one united people the multitudes brought hither out of many kindred and tongues. Imbue
with the spirit of wisdom those to whom in Thy name we entrust the authority of government,that
there may be justice and peace at home,and that, through obedience to Thy law,we may show forth
Thy praise among the nations of the earth.In the time of prosperity fill our hearts with thankful-
ness; in the day of trouble suffer not our trust in Thee to fail; all of which we ask through Jesus
Christ our Lord.Amen.
LULAC CODE
Respect your Citizenship and preserve it; honor your country,maintain its tradition in the
spirit of its citizens and embody yourself into its culture and civilization.
Be proud of your origin and maintain it immaculate,respect your glorious past and help to defend
the rights of all the people.
Learn how to discharge your duties before you learn how to assert your rights; educate and make
yourself worthy, and stand high in the light of your own deed; you must always be loyal and
courageous.
Filled with optimism, make yourself sociable, upright, judicious, and above all things be
sober and collected in your habits, cautious in your actions and sparing in your speech.
Believe in God,love Humanity and rely upon the framework of human progress, slow and sound,
unequivocal and firm.
Always be honorable and high minded; learn how to be self reliant upon your qualifications and
resources.
In war serve your country, in peace your convictions; discern, investigate, meditate, think,
study, and at all times be honest and generous. Let your firmest purpose be that of helping to
see that each new generation shall be of a youth more efficient and capable and in this let your
own children be included.
CONSTITUTION OF THE LEAGUE OF UNITED LATIN AMERICAN CITIZENS
Preamble
We, the members of this organization with unfaltering faith in the Divine Power of Almighty God and
invoking His Gracious Blessings,do hereby ordain and establish this constitution to guide the destinies of
our League in accordance with the Philosophy and Aims and Purposes herein set.
ARTICLE I
Legal Provisions
Section 1—Name: League of United Latin American Citizens(LULAC) shall be the official name of
this organization and the one under which all business and activities of the constituted body shall be
carried out. The word LULAC, which is formed by official abbreviated title of the League, may be used
in lieu of the full name of the organization in any and all instances where it is apropos.At no time may the
name LULAC be written in other than capital letters.
Section 2—Legal Status: The League of United Latin American Citizens shall be incorporated and
chartered under the laws of each of the states in which it operates as a civic and non-profit organization and
under the Federal laws of the United States of America.
Section 3—Composition: The League of United Latin American Citizens shall be made up of affiliated
councils which shall be chartered by the National Board of Directors under authority of the National
Assembly as set forth in this Constitution.
ARTICLE II
Philosophy
We believe in the democratic principle of individual political and religious freedom,the right of equality
of social and economic opportunity,and in the cooperative endeavor toward the development of an American
Society wherein the cultural resources,integrity and dignity of every individual and group constitute basic
assets of the American way of Life.
We believe that as American Citizens we must assume our duties and responsibilities and assert our rights
and privileges in pursuit of a fuller and richer civilization for our country.
We believe that education is the foundation for the cultural growth and development of this nation and that
we are obligated to promote, protect and assure the right of our people to an education that is in
accordance with the best American educational principles and standards; that we must deplore any
infringement of this right wherever it may occur and regardless of whom it may affect.
We accept that it is not only the privilege but the obligation of every member of this organization to uphold
and defend the rights and duties vested in every American Citizen by the letter and spirit of the Law of
the Land.
ARTICLE III
Aims and Purposes
Based on the spirit of the philosophy of our League and having unequivocal faith in its righteousness,
we propose:
1. To use all constitutional means at our disposal to implement with social action the principles set forth
in our philosophy;
2. To foster the learning and fluent use of the English language that we may thereby equip ourselves
and our families for the fullest enjoyment of our rights and privileges and the efficient discharge
of our duties and responsibilities to our country,but at the same time,exerting equal effort to foster
the fluent mastery of the Spanish language which is part of our heritage and a means of extending
the cultural horizons of our nation;
3. To constitute the League into a service organization to actively promote and foster suitable
measures for the attainment of the highest of our American society, and to establish cooperative
relations with civic and governmental institutions and agencies in the field of public service;
4. To exert our united efforts to uphold the rights guaranteed to every individual by our state and
national laws and to assure justice and equal treatment under these laws;
5. To combat with every means at our command all un-American tendencies and actions that deprive
American citizens of their rights in educational institutions, in economic pursuits and in social,
civic and political activities;
6. To maintain the League free of all involvement in partisan politics as an organization; however,
we shall oppose any infringement upon the constitutional political rights of an individual to vote
and/or be a candidate at local, state and national levels;
7. To oppose any violent demonstrations or other acts that defy constituted law and authority,
desecrate the symbols of our nation, and threaten the physical and spiritual welfare of individuals
or institutions;
s. To promote and encourage the education of youth and adults through scholarships, the constant
vigilance of administrative and instructional practices in schools which deprive persons of
educational opportunities, the sponsorship of classes in citizenship and other areas, and through
the dissemination of information about available training opportunities;
9. To make use of every medium of communication at our disposal and to exert our combined
efforts to promulgate and propagate the principles of the League, and augment its influence and
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numerical growth;
io. To undergird the efforts postulated in our Aims and Purposes with the overall objective of creating
among our fellow citizens, through example and a mutual exchange of concepts, an understanding
and recognition of and an appreciation for the dignity, worth and potential of the individual.
ARTICLE IV
Members
All persons of either sex who are residents of the United States of America, or citizens of the United
States residing abroad, and are eighteen years of age or older, and whose loyalty to our country is
unquestionable, are eligible for membership in the League. No council at present, or in the future, shall
deviate from this requirement or ask for more requirements to become a member of LULAC. All other
amendments pertaining to membership whether general or special shall be declared null and void. Any
councils or persons found denying a valid candidate for membership shall be impeached by the district
executive board by a majority vote. The guilty party of council may appeal only to the National Board
of Directors.
Membership in the League may be affected through an individual initiated application to a local Council,
the recommendation of a member in good standing, or in the case of certain types of membership
stipulated in Section 3 & 4 below, through the recommendation of a Council in good standing to the
National Assembly or the National Board or Directors.
Section 1—General Members: Persons who fulfill all qualifications for membership, are actively
affiliated with a local Council and have paid the full assessment of local, district, state and national dues
will be enrolled as Members of the League.
a. Duties and Responsibilities:
(1) To participate in all meetings and activities of their respective Councils;
(2) To abide by the Constitution and Bylaws established by the National, State and District
Assemblies, and their local Councils;
(3) To deport themselves in keeping with the Philosophy, Aims and Purposes and Code of the
League;
(4) To exert their efforts individually and cooperatively on behalf of those who need the help and
protection of the League.
(5) To work for the extension of the membership and services of the League within their
respective communities;
(6) To subordinate their personal feelings and desires to the general welfare of the League;
(7) To refrain from using the name, facilities or influence
of the League for political or personal aspirations or aggrandizement;
(s) To be alert to and report to the proper authority any improper use that may be made of the
name,influence or facilities of the League by members or others outside the organization;
(9) To maintain their membership in force by paying their dues according to the schedule set by the
Council.
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b. Rights and Privileges: All General Members in good standing shall be entitled:
(1) To the protection, counsel and guidance provided by the League;
(2) To participate in all meetings and other activities of their respective councils and to have access to
the facilities provided by said councils for their membership, subject to such regulations as may
be established;
(3) To propose,discuss and vote on matters of interest to and for the welfare of the Council or League;
(4) To vote and be candidates for an office in their Council, District, State or National Conventions,
provided that in the case of offices at levels higher than their Council, they are certified as
delegates to the conventions, have the support of their respective Council,and otherwise fulfill all
requirements for the office sought;
(5) To receive upon being initiated as members,copies of the National and Council Constitutions and
Bylaws, Membership Certificates, Identification Cards and LULAC Pins whose cost shall have
been covered by the initiation fee as set by this Constitution;
(6) To receive issues of LULAC NEWS, the official literary organ of the League;
(7) To have their membership transferred to another Council upon written notification to their home
Council and the approval of the receiving one. Such transfer may be temporary or permanent and
all details of dues,honors, membership classification, etc. shall be handled by the secretaries of
the respective Councils. However, at no one time can a member belong to two councils. The
member's council of record with the National Office at the time of the conflict will prevail.
(s) To appeal to their respective Councils and/or District, State and National Officers and Assemblies
cases involving their suspension or expulsion as members of the League or any situation which in
their opinion constitutes an infringement on their rights and privileges as members of the League.
Such appeals must be in writing and present all details.
Section 2-Life Members
Section 3—Honorary Members
Section 4—Distinguished Members
Section 5—Seniors Members
ARTICLE V
ASSOCIATES
Section 1—National Associates
Section 2—National Corporate Associates
Section 3—Council or Corporate Associates
ARTICLE VI
ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE
Reference pdf online for Sections 1-7:
Section I-3 National Sections 4 & 5 State Sections 6 & 7 District
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Section 8—The Local Council:
a. The Local Council is an affiliated unit of the League which operates within a community under
authority of a charter granted by the National Board of Directors upon approval of an Application
for LULAC Charter.
b. Organization: A local Council may be organized under the sponsorship of an active Council
and/or of any District, State or National Board of Director officer or any combination of these
according to the procedures set forth below:
(1) A group of not less than ten persons of either or both sexes that meets all qualifications for
membership as defined under Article IV, Section 1 of this Constitution and desirous of forming
a LULAC Council shall, on its own initiative or that of one of the possible sponsoring entities,
stipulated above,meet and elect officers and otherwise constitute itself into an organized body;
(2) After orientation as to the principles, work and structure of the League, the group shall fill
out an Application for LULAC Charter form (Subsection h.,below);
(3) The application, accompanied by a roster of the officers and members of the group, complete
with mailing addresses, a $75.00 charter fee and a $6.00 initiation fee and the dues payable
for each member on the roster, shall be forwarded to the National Office.All councils chartered
30 days prior to the National Convention will be allowed to have voting privileges;
(4) Upon approval of the application by the National Board of Directors, a Charter will be issued
by the National Office and sent to the Council in addition to the Director of the District and
State Director in which the Council is to be located or the State Director if no District exists.
(5) The District or State Director shall arrange a place and date with the new Council for the
initiation of members, installation of officers, and presentation of charter according to the
established ritual in this Constitution;
(6) Charter Fees: The sum of $75.00 is hereby set as the fee for issuance of a charter by the
National Board of Directors to a group that applies and is approved for affiliation as a Local
Council with the League. Said fee shall be renewed on an annual basis, due to the LULAC
National Treasurer on the first day of January each year and payable no later than February
28 of that same year by each Local Council. Any Council not having paid said fee by the
February 28 due date shall have its charter revoked and will be required to apply for a new
charter and pay all fees as prescribed for the chartering of a new Council. Said fees shall be
deposited in the General Fund of the National Office.
�. Powers:
(1)To draw up a Constitution and or Bylaws to carry through its administration and work;
however, said document's provisions must not be in conflict with or contrary to the District,State
or National Constitutions and Bylaws, adopted resolutions, policies and customs;
(2)To establish local membership dues and a schedule of payment,and to collect and remit District,
State and National membership dues to the respective entities in the amounts and according to
the schedules set in the Bylaws of this Constitution;
(3)To initiate and carry through fund-raising, civic, social and welfare projects on its own or in
cooperation with other acceptable organizations, providing said projects do not violate or
contradict the principles of the League;
(4)To organize and supervise Councils of the LULAC Youth in line with the procedures and
guidelines set forth in this Constitution;
(5)To suspend and drop from its rolls any member who is in arrears with his or her dues as provided
in Article IV, Section 1, Subsection a., 9; (of the Natl Bylaws)
(6)To suspend or expel from its ranks any member guilty of actions contrary to the best interests of
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the Council or the League in general, as provided in Article VIII, Section 8, Subsection a. (1)
thru (8); (of the Natl Bylaws)
(7)To impeach and remove from office any of its officers guilty of the causes enumerated in Article
VIII, Section 8, Subsection a. (1) thru(8); (of the Nati Bylaws)
(s)To elect and certify delegates and alternates to District, State and National Conventions in such
numbers and according to procedures as set forth in the Bylaws.
(9)Name Honorary members as per Article IV, Section 3(e) and Council Associates as per Article
V, Section 3; (of the Natl Bylaws)
d. Limitations:
(1) A Local Council may not assume the authority to speak or act for the League in matters of
national scope involving National LULAC policies unless authorized by the National Board
of Directors;
(2) In no instance may a Local Council bind the League in any matter except with the consent of
the National Board of Directors;
(3) A Local Council organized less than thirty days prior to a District, State or National Convention
or one whose charter has not been presented officially,may send delegations but may not have
the right to cast votes.
e. Responsibilities:
(1) Monthly meetings 3rd Saturday: Aug-Nov; Jan-May Hold June & July as needed
(Council 4366).
(2) To submit quarterly financial and activity reports to the District Office per request, and to remit
membership dues to the District, State and National Treasurers;
(3) To pay special assessments within the specified time as voted by the National Assembly;
(4) To promote the growth of its membership and the scope of its activities and to comply with the
provisions of the National Constitution and Bylaws, adopted resolutions,policies and customs
and those of subordinate units of the League,including its own.
f. Meetings:
(1) The Denton#4366 Council established regular schedule of meetings on the third Saturday of
each month and shall notify all of its members; (Council 4366).
(2) Meetings shall be conducted according to the established Ritual and Order of Business in the
Bylaws, and Robert's Rules of Order, Revised, shall apply in all matters and situations not covered
by the National, State,District or Local Council Constitution and Bylaws,resolutions,policies or
accepted custom.
g. Quorum: One-third (1/3) of the Active Members shall comprise a quorum to transact all business
before the Council at regular or special meetings.
h. Application for LULAC Charter: To the LULAC National Board of Directors using the forms
provided by the National Membership Office.
Section 9—The Local Young Adult Council
ARTICLE VII—The Youth
ARTICLE VIII—National Officers
ARTICLE IX—State Officers
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ARTICLE X—District Officers
ARTICLE XI
Council Officers
Section 1—Elective Officers:
a. President; (3.19.2011 Minutes Term Jan-Dec) Council 4366
b. President-Elect (612010; amended 3.19.2011 Minutes) Council 4366
c. Vice-President for Membership—(if council chooses to nominate 612010) Council 4366
d. Secretary;
e. Treasurer;
f. Parliamentarian;
g. Sergeant-at-Arms—(if council chooses to nominate 612010) Council 4366
Section 2—Appointed Officers:
a. Director of Voter Elections Council 4366
b. Director of Publicity;
c. Other as appointed by President
Section 3—Qualifications:
a. All Council Officers whether elected or appointed, must:
(1) Be twenty-one years of age or older and must
(2) have been a member in good standing for at least one year. The one-year rule will be waived
for Councils which have been chartered for less than one year;
(3) Be of good moral character and possess some administrative ability necessary for the
discharge of his or her duties;
Section 4—Election or Appointment—(Council#4366 voted/approved March 2011)
a. All elective officers shall be elected by a majority vote of the Council during the month of
November by the council meeting held the 3rd week of the month. Date, shall be given to the
members thirty days prior at the October meeting when nominations are finalized.(Council 4366).
b. Voting shall be by a show of hands,roll call,encrypted electronic vote or secret ballot as Committee
may recommend and the Council may approve; (Council 4366—electronic voting 2010).
c. In those instances, where no candidate receives a clear cut majority, the procedure set in Article
VIII, Section 5, Subsection c., Items (1) and (2) of the National Constitution shall be followed
with the Presiding Officer casting the deciding vote under Item(2);
d. All appointments of the President must be approved by a majority of the membership present at
the time;
e. All vacancies occurring in elective offices shall be filled through special elections provided notice
of such election is given at least two weeks in advance to all members. Special elections shall
follow the same procedure as set in Subsections b. & c. above;
f. Installation of officers may be held immediately following the elections or postponed for a period
of time not to exceed three weeks.
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Section 5—Tenure of Office:
All terms of office of Local Council Officers and any limitation thereto shall be in keeping with the
provisions set in Nall Article VIII, Section 6, except that all situations are limited to the Local Council
scope. Council #4366 tenure is January to December. (Council 4366—Minutes 3.19.2011). All references to
appointed officers shall not apply since all offices of the Local Council are elective with the exception
of Council Committees.
Section 6— Impeachment and/or Removal of Local Council Officers:
Procedures for the Impeachment and/or Removal of Council Officers, shall follow those set forth
in Nad Article VIII, Section 8,of this Constitution.
Section 7—Duties and Responsibilities of Council Officers:
The duties and responsibilities of all Council Officers shall be those set forth in the Constitution and
Bylaws of the Local Council, so long as they do not conflict with or exceed those of National or other
Officers of the League. If no provisions are made by the Local Council for the definition of duties and
responsibilities, then those set for the District, State and National Officers shall be followed to the extent
that they are applicable to similar offices of the Council.
ARTICLE XII
General Provisions
Section 1—The LULAC Code: A set of moral principles designed and adopted by the League as its code
of conduct and which charges each and every member to:
Respect your citizenship and preserve it; honor your country; maintain its traditions in the spirit of
its citizens and embody yourself into its culture and civilization.
Be proud of your origin and maintain it immaculate; respect your glorious past and help to defend
the rights of all the people. Learn how to discharge your duties before you learn how to assert your
rights; educate and make yourself worthy, and stand high in the light of your own deeds; you must
always be loyal and courageous.
Filled with optimism, make yourself sociable, upright,judicious, and above all things, be sober and
collected in your habits,cautious in your action and sparing in your speech.
Believe in God, love humanity, and rely upon the framework of human progress, slow but sound,
unequivocal and firm.
Always be honorable and high-minded; learn how to be self-reliant upon your own qualifications and
resources.
In war,serve your country;in peace,your convictions;discern,investigate, study, meditate and think;
at all times be honest and generous. Let your firmest purpose be that of helping to see that each new
generation shall be of a youth more efficient and capable,and in this let your own children be included.
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Section 2— Motto: All For One And One For All verbally embodies the philosophy and spirit of the
organization and is hereby adopted as the official motto of the League. It shall be printed on all stationery,
charters,I.D.Cards,and other appropriate documents and papers of the League.
Section 3—Emblem:Refer to National Bylaws
Section 4—Seal: Refer to National Bylaws
Section 5—Flag: The Flag of the United States of America, ever proud and symbolic of freedom and
justice throughout the world, is hereby adopted as the Flag of the League. Due respect and homage shall
be shown and offered to the Flag through proper and respectful display and by the recitation of the Pledge
of Allegiance at all official functions of the League:
"I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands,
one nation under God,indivisible,with Liberty and Justice for all."
Section 6—Banner: Refer to National Bylaws
Section 7—Membership Pin: Refer to National Bylaws
Section 8—Colors: The colors of the League shall be the red,white and blue of our Flag, symbolizing the
virtues of courage, purity of thought,and faith in the justice of God and man.
Section 9—Prayer: Washington's prayer is hereby designated the official prayer of the League as a
tribute to the memory of the first President of the United States of America and as an eminently pure
expression of our devotion to this country:
Section 10—Hymn—The hymn"America"... -Refer to National Bylaws
Section 11—LULAC News-Refer to National Bylaws
Section 12—National Office-Refer to National Bylaws
Section 10—Litigation-Refer to National Bylaws
ARTICLE XIII
Financial Provisions
Refer to National Bylaws
Section 1—Revenue Services
Section 2—Budgets
Section 3—Disbursements
Section 4-Audits
ARTICLE XIV
The Constitution and Bylaws
Refer to National Bylaws
Section 1—Enabling and Repealing Provision
Section 2—Amendments
Section 3—New Constitution
Section 4—Resolutions
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Section 5-State and District Constitutions and Bylaws
BYLAWS
of the
LEAGUE OF UNITED LATIN AMERICAN CITIZENS
ARTICLE I
Ritual of the League
Section I—Meetings: The President and Staff shall take their places when the hour set for the
meeting has arrived and a quorum is present.
PRESIDENT: "I declare this meeting duly convened and qualified to consider and transact such
business as may come before this Council. Let us rise and extend an invitation to our Chaplain to
elevate the Official Prayer of our League, given as a tribute to the memory of its author, the first
President of the United States of America and as an eminently pure expression of our devotion to
America, our Country."
CHAPLAIN: "Almighty God, who has given us this good land for our heritage,we humbly
beseech Thee that we may prove ourselves a people mindful of Thy favor and glad to do Thy
will. Bless our land with honorable industry, sound learning and pure manners. Save us from
violence, discord and confusion; from pride and arrogance, and from every evil way. Defend our
liberties and fashion into one united people the multitudes brought hither out of many kindred
and tongues. Imbue with the spirit of wisdom those to whom in Thy name we entrust the
authority of government, that there may be justice and peace at home, and that, through
obedience to Thy law,we may show forth Thy praise among the nations of the earth. In the time
of prosperity fill our hearts with thankfulness; in the day of trouble suffer not our trust in Thee to
fail; all of which we ask through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen."
PRESIDENT: "We will now pledge allegiance to the Flag of our country: I pledge allegiance to
the Flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands: one nation
under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all." (The singing of the official hymn after
the pledge is optional,but is recommended that it be made a custom to sing it.) (President gives
one rap with gavel and members will be seated.)
PRESIDENT: `By the authority vested in this body by its charter, and with the consent of our
members, we are pledged to the advancement of all Americans. Pledged to such a policy of
human betterment, we believe that this can be best accomplished in our particular case by
organization, education and fraternity. Organized we can foster progress and education. We can
study, think, thrive and reach higher levels of social, moral, economic and political welfare.
Education is necessary for organization and progress, fraternity is the cause and effect of unity."
Regular Order of Business -Refer to National Bylaws
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PRESIDENT: "As we adjourn this meeting tonight, let us depart with the spirit
of brotherhood and respect. Let us leave with the feeling that we have extended
to each other the courtesy of hearing and having been heard, without offending
or feeling offended. That the mutual ideals that have brought us together tonight
are stronger than the differences of opinion that seem to divide us. In the spirit of
friendship and respect, let us offer each other the sign of brotherhood."
Section 2—Member Installation-Refer to National Bylaws
Section 3—Installation-Refer to National Bylaws
Section 4—Graveside Prayer-Refer to National Bylaws
ARTICLE II
Conventions
Refer to National Bylaws
ARTICLE III
Membership Dues
Section 1—National:
The National dues for LULAC active members shall payable to the council for remittance to the National
Office. National dues expire on December 31 st of each year, and are due on January 1 st of the new
calendar year.National dues are payable for 12 months in advance if a member is renewing membership,
or for pro-rated portion of the calendar year if coming from a new member. The National dues are
payable to the Councils for remittance to the National Office by February 28. A pilot system of direct
invoicing to members is hereby authorized.
Section 2—Membership Initiation Fees:
A National Membership initiation fee of$6.00, payable to the National Office, shall be required of all
new members, as well as of ex-members who have been dropped from their council rolls and who
desire to reapply for membership rather than pay dues in arrears. Said dues are to be collected by the
Local Council and forwarded to the National Office for deposit in the General Operations account.
Section 3—Dues in Arrears:Refer to National Bylaws
Section 4—State: The dues shall be set by each State Assembly but in no instance shall they exceed the
National dues. They shall be paid as in Section 1 above.
Section 5—District: The provision in Section 4 shall apply to District Dues.
Section 6—Local Council: Councils are empowered to set their own dues and the only limitation
affecting the amount shall be the economic situation or ability to pay of the members and prospective
members.
ARTICLE IV
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Constitutional Revision Committee
The Constitutional Revision Committee is authorized to make any changes necessary to correct,
clarify, conform and consolidate the revised Constitution adopted hereby.
SIMPLIFIED PARLIAMENTARY PROCEDURE
Based on Robert's Rules of Order
Reprinted with permission from the League of Women Voters
ARTICLE I
Order of Business
1. The meeting is"called to order"by the president.
2. The minutes of the preceding meeting are read by the secretary.
a. May be approved as read.
b. May be approved with additions or corrections.
3. Monthly statement of treasurer is "Received as read and filed for audit."(Chair so states.)
4. Reports of standing committees are called for by the president.
5. Reports of special committees are called for by the president.
6. Unfinished business is next in order at the call of the chair or of the meeting.
7. New business.
s. The Program—The program is part of the meeting; the president"presides" throughout,but the
program chairman makes report.
9. Adjournment.
ARTICLE II
Duties of a President
i. To preside at all meetings
2. Keep calm at all times.
3. Talk no more than necessary while presiding.
4. Have agenda for meeting before him/her and proceed in a businesslike manner.
5. Have a working knowledge of parliamentary law and a thorough understanding of the constitution
and bylaws of the organization.
6. Keep a list of committees on table while presiding.
7. *Refrain from entering the debate of questions before the assembly. If it is essential that this be
done,the Vice-President or President-Elect should be placed in the chair.A president is not
permitted to resume the chair until after the vote has been taken on the question under discussion.
s. Extend every courtesy to the opponents of a motion, even though the motion is one that the presiding
officer favors.
9. Always appear at the rostrum a few minutes before the time the meeting is to be called to order.
When the time arrives, note whether a quorum is present; if so, call the meeting to order,and
declare"quorum is present."
io. Issue all calls or notices of meetings two weeks before and a few days before the meeting. Council
4366
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ARTICLE III
Other Officials
*Section 1—Vice-President for Membership:
The vice-president of the organization is the one who acts in the place of the president.The Vice-President
recruits new members and makes sure prior year members have paid their dues. Vice-President will bring
forth nominations for the following year's elections. Vice-President will oversee election ballots with two
other members appointed by the President to tally votes. The Council nominates for this post if it deems it
necessary to have this office. (Council 4366).
In official meetings, the vice-president should preside in the absence of the president or whenever the
president temporarily vacates the chair.
In the absence of the president,the vice-president is not"ex-officio"member of any committee.
President-Elect: July 2010 voted/approved—Amended 3.19.2011 (Council 4366).
The President-Elect will be President the following year beginning his/her tenure January I" and ending
December 31 st. The current year as President-Elect is to observe, learn and be ready to take office the
following year.
In case of resignation or death of the president, the President-Elect automatically becomes the president.
If the president should be absent for a long period, the President-Elect may exercise all duties of the
president except to change or modify rules made by the president.
The President-Elect cannot fill vacancies where the bylaws state that such vacancies shall be filled by the
president.
RESIGNATION of PRESIDENT: In case of resignation or death of the president,and the President-Elect
does not care to assume the office of president, the President-Elect must resign. (Council 4366).
The office of President-Elect becomes vacant when the President-Elect assumes the office of president if
the President resigns or in case of death. The President-Elect may choose to continue his elected term as
President the following year. If he/she chooses not to continue his elected term as President the following
year and there is a vice president,the Vice-President automatically moves up as President the following
year.(Council 4366).
Section 2—Secretary: The secretary should issue a notice of meeting and should write such letters as the
President or officers of the council may designate. (Council 4366).
The secretary should keep a neat and careful record of all business done in the meetings, with the exact
wording of every motion and whether it was lost or carried. Brief extracts from speeches, if important,
may be recorded but no comment of any kind,favorable or unfavorable, should be made. The minutes
should show the names of persons appointed to committees and it is the duty of the secretary to notify all
persons nominated or elected on any committee.
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The secretary should be on hand a few minutes before a meeting is called to order. He or she should
have the Minutes book of the organization with him/her so that reference can be made to minutes of past
meetings.
The secretary should always have a copy of the bylaws; standing rules;book of parliamentary procedure
endorsed by the organization; list of members of clubs; a list of unfinished business, copy of which should
be given to the presiding officer.
Minutes: The minutes of an organization should contain a record of what is done and not what is said.
Minutes should contain:
1. Date,place and time of meeting.
2. Whether it is a regular or special meeting.
3. Name of person presiding.
4. Name of secretary. (In small boards, the names of those present should be recorded.)
5. All main motions,whether adopted or rejected.
6. The names of persons making the motions;the name of the seconder need not be recorded.
7. Points of order and appeals,whether sustained or lost.
s. A motion which was withdrawn should not be recorded.
Section 3—Treasurer: The treasurer of any organization is the custodian of its funds and receives and
disburses them upon authority from the organization, the board, executive committee or the finance or
budget committees.A treasurer should be bonded.
The organization should authorize the medium by which bills are paid,(whether by check or by cash and
by whom) and should either approve the budget or authorize the executive committee of the board of
directors to do so.A chairman or an officer or member should get permission from the president or board
to make expenditure.
No treasurer should accept bills for payment, such as for postage, traveling expenses, etc., from a
chairman unless receipts are enclosed.
The treasurer should make a monthly detailed statement reports and a report once a year, or
upon the request of board or parent body during the year. The annual report should be audited.An
auditor's report should be presented following the treasurer's report. The presiding officer states to the
assembly that to adopt the report of the auditor (if carried) has the effect of accepting the treasurer's
report.
Committees: Committees have no authority except that which is granted by the constitution or by vote
of the organization. Unless otherwise provided, the person first named or the one receiving the largest
number of votes is its chairman. A committee has no right to incur any debt or involve the organization
in any way unless given full authority to do so.
Under no consideration should one or more, members of a committee go ahead with the business
without action by a quorum;usually a majority of the committee, being present. Failure to observe these
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rules renders such action"the action of individuals" and subject to"censure," "suits," etc.
ARTICLE IV
Principal Motions
General Statement: When a motion has been made, seconded and stated by the chair, the assembly is
not at liberty to consider any other business until this motion has been disposed of.If the motion is long
and involved the chairman asks the mover to hand it in writing to the secretary.The mover cannot withdraw
his motion after it has been stated by the chair.In general,all important motions should be seconded,which
may be done without rising or addressing the chair.
1. To Amend: This motion is "to change, add, or omit words" in the original main motion, and is
debatable: majority votes.
To Amend the Amendment: This is a motion to change, add, or omit words in the first
amendment; debatable: majority votes.
Method: The first vote is on changing words of second amendment,the second vote(if first vote
adopts change) on first amendment as changed; the third vote is on adopting main motion as
changed.
2. To Commit: When a motion becomes involved through amendments or when it is wise to
investigate a question more carefully, it may be moved to commit the motion to a committee
for further consideration. Debatable— Amendable—Committee must make report on such
question.
s. To Lay on the Table: The object of this motion is to postpone the subject under discussion in such
a way that it can be taken up at some time in the near future when a motion "to take from the
table"would be in order. These motions are not debatable or amendable: majority vote.
4. To Postpone: A motion to postpone the question before the assembly to some future time is in
order, except when a speaker has the floor. Debatable: majority vote.
5. To Adjourn: This motion is always in order except:
a. When a speaker has the floor.
b. When a vote is being taken.
c. After it has just been voted down.
d. When the assembly is in the midst of some business which cannot be abruptly stopped.
Under all the above circumstances,the motion is not debatable.
When the motion is made to adjourn to a definite place and time,it is debatable.
6. To Reconsider: The motion to reconsider a motion that was carried or lost is in order if made on
the same day or the next calendar day, but must be made by one who voted with the prevailing
side. No question can be twice reconsidered. Debatable: majority vote.
Requires 2 votes:First on whether it should be reconsidered; Second on original motion after
reconsideration.
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7. The Previous Question: Is to close debate on the pending question. This motion may be made when
debate becomes long and drawn out. It is not debatable. The form is "Mr. (Madam) Chairman, I
move the previous question." The chairman then asks, "Shall debate be closed and the question
now be put?" If this be adopted by a two-thirds (2/3) vote, the question before the assembly is
immediately voted upon.
s. Point of Order: This motion is always in order, but can be used only to present an objection to a
ruling of the chair or some method of parliamentary procedure.The form is"Mr. (Madam) Chairman,
I rise to a point of order." The Chairman: "Please state your point of order." After the member
has stated his objection,the chair answers:
a. "Your point of order is sustained"or,
b. "Your point of order is denied."
If any member is not satisfied, he/she may appeal from the decision of the chair. The chairman
then addresses the assembly, "Shall the decisions of the chair be sustained?"This is debatable and
the presiding officer may discuss it without leaving the chair. Voted on like any other motion:
majority or tie vote sustains the decision of chair. Requires a majority of"no"votes to reverse
decision of the chair.
ARTICLE V
Nominations, Elections and Terms of Office
General Henry M. Robert, author of Robert's Rules of Order, says: "In the election of the officers
of a society it is more usual to have the nominations made by a committee—when the committee makes
its report, which consists of a ticket (a ticket is one name for each office to be filled by ballot), the chair
asks,`Are there any other nominations?'—at which time they may be made from the floor.The committee's
nominations are treated just as if made by members from the floor, no vote being taken on accepting
them."
If nominations are made from the floor, these names are added to those submitted by the nominating
committee.Neither nominations by the committee nor adoption by vote,but are acted upon in the election
ballot.Nominations are never seconded except as a complimentary endorsement of candidates not known
to the assembly.This is rarely done except in national meetings where candidates assemble from all parts
of the country.
A nominating ballot is NOT an elective ballot: (is not necessary or desirable where a nominating
committee operates). When nominations are completed the assembly proceeds to the election,voting by
the method prescribed in the Constitution and Bylaws. The usual method in permanent societies is by
ballot,the balloting continued until the offices are filled.If a member is in good standing in the organization
and receives a majority of the votes cast in the elective ballot (or plurality if bylaws so provide), he/she
is then declared to be legally elected to fill the office even though he/she has not been nominated from the
floor or by the nominating committee.
A motion may be made to close nominations but this motion is not in order until the assembly has been
given reasonable time to add further nominations to those already made. It is a non-debatable
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main motion, incidental to the nominations. It may be amended as to the time of closing nominations,but
have no other subsidiary motion applied to it because it deprives members of one of their rights. It requires
a two-thirds(2/3)vote.The motion to reopen nominations is non-debatable and requires a majority vote.It
may also be amended as to time,but no other subsidiary motion applies.
The chair should remind the members that the nominating committee has endeavored to present as sure a
ticket as possible,but it is now their privilege to name a candidate for any or all of the offices to be filled,
and that they still have the opportunity of casting a ballot,for any eligible members,whether nominated or
not.
General Robert says: "Each member may vote for any eligible person whether nominated or not."
A member may withdraw his name if placed in nomination,announcing that if elected he would not be
able to serve, but he cannot"withdraw in favor of another member."
KINDS OF VOTING—Majority vote means more than half the votes cast,ignoring blanks,and a
plurality vote is the largest of two or more numbers.A plurality vote never adopts a motion or elects a
member to office except by virtue of a special rule previously adopted in the constitution or bylaws.
In an election a candidate has a plurality when he or she has a larger vote than any other candidate.
THE CHAIR VOTES—When the vote is by ballot the president writes his or her ballot, and casts it with
the rest. On a tie vote the motion is lost. If a majority of one, the chair (if a member of the assembly)
may vote with the minority and make it a tie, and declare the motion "lost" unless the vote is by ballot.
In the event of a tie vote by ballot, balloting must continue until a candidate receives a majority. (Unless
bylaws provide for plurality)
To move "that an election be made unanimous" is a mistaken courtesy, as it forces those who did not
vote for the candidate to unwillingly submit to the transferring of their vote, this making it appear to
be unanimous, when it is not; one negative response causes such a motion to be "lost".
An election takes effect immediately following the completion of the annual business unless the bylaws
specify some other date.
This does not mean that officers are to assume office at this meeting,for the duties of the outgoing officers
are not completed for the year until after the adjournment of the annual session and all business relating
to the annual meeting has been perfected.
BALLOTING—It is the duty of the chairman of elections to see that ballots are prepared in advance of
the meeting and pencils are ready for the election. The tellers shall count the ballots. The chairman of
elections reads the report, giving the number of votes for each person,whether nominated or"written-in"
on the ballot. The presiding officer then"declares"who have been elected.
A formal "Installation"may be arranged, but office does not depend on installation but on election (or
appointment if so provided in bylaws).
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ARTICLE VI
Decorum
Probably the most serious defect in most meetings is the lack of reasonable decorum. Good order must
be maintained if business is to be carried out. Courtesy would demand that there should be no whispering
or commotion while any speaker has the floor. Do not speak too frequently.Beware of personalities. State
facts rather than what you think or believe. Nothing marks the dignity of a meeting as the sharp retort or
angry voice.
Speak while motion is pending not after the vote has been taken or
after the meeting is over.
LEAGUE OF UNITED LATIN AMERICAN CITIZENS ANNUAL COUNCIL
CHARTER AGREEMENT—see National General Agreements Artiles III, III
ARTICLE I
Purpose & Philosophy
Refer to National Bylaws
ARTICLE II
Charter Agreement
Refer to National Bylaws
ARTICLE III
General Agreement
Refer to National Bylaws
Section A—Membership -Refer to National Bylaws
Section B—LULAC -Refer to National Bylaws
ARTICLE IV
Covenants of Chartered Council
Section A—The Council: shall reflect "LULAC" and its assigned number in its name. Council shall be
known and shall do business as it is registered with LULAC. The Council shall conspicuously identify
itself as a duly chartered Council of LULAC in all dealings with its clients, contractors, public officials,
and others, and shall prominently place appropriate notice of its charter membership on all forms,business
cards, stationary, advertising, signs and other materials where LULAC membership is disclosed.
Section B—Revenues and Expenses: The Council shall be solely responsible for its revenues and
expenses in providing,managing,or otherwise conducting the business affairs of the Council.
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Section C—Principles of Operation: The Council shall operate its programs, services, and business
activities in keeping with the purposes, philosophy, and standards described in the LULAC Constitution
and its By-Laws and this Agreement.
Section D—Record Keeping,Accounting, Reporting Standards: The Council shall open and maintain
bank accounts to be used in general operational activities of the Council as well as an account for designated
specific purposes which cannot be used for the general operational activities. Denton LULAC will have
an Operations Account and a Scholarship Account.
These bank accounts shall be subjected to inspection by LULAC and their status must be reported to
LULAC.
The Council shall keep correct, current, and complete books and records of accounts, and shall keep
minutes of proceedings of its members, officers, board of directors, and committees having any authority
of the Council and shall keep at its principle office,a record of the names, addresses, and telephone
numbers of its members entitled to vote.
All books and records of a Council may be inspected by any LULAC member, or his agent or
attorney,or LULAC officer for any purpose at any reasonable time.
Section E—Financial Records and Annual Reports: A Council shall maintain current, true and
accurate financial records with full and correct entries made with respect to all financial transactions of the
Council, including all income and expenditures in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles.
Based on these records, the officers of the Council or trustees shall prepare an annual report of the
financial activity of the council. The financial report is due no later than sixty (60) days after the
close of their accounting period. The report must include a statement of support,revenue,expenses,
changes in fund balance, and a balance sheet for all funds. These reports are due in the National
office as directed by the National President or National Treasurer.
All records,books,and annual reports shall be kept at the Council's principal office and shall be maintained
for at least three years after closing of the accounting period.
A Council that fails to maintain financial Records, prepare an annual report, or otherwise fail to
follow any of the provisions herein in the manner prescribed by this section shall have its Council
charter forfeited and/or not renewed.
Section F—Service Marks and Trademarks: see National Bylaws
Section G—Personal and Real Properties see National Bylaws
Section H—Hold Harmless: Council agrees to hold LULAC National "harmless" from any and all
claims made against the Council or entity arising out of acts or failures to act by said Council/entity, and to
provide funds to LULAC National for attorney's fees and costs resulting from any such claim.
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ARTICLE V
Covenants of LULAC
Section A—Support: LULAC will provide administrative and technical guidance and assistance to its
duly Chartered Councils.
Section B—Advocacy: LULAC will serve as an advocate at the national level to inform the public,
corporate leaders and elected officials of LULAC's achievements as well as the needs and issues
concerning the Hispanic community.
Section C—Annual Financial Statement: LULAC agrees to make available to Council,upon request,
an Annual Financial Statement.
ARTICLE VI
Members
Section A—Restrictions:Unless authorized by the National Board ofdirectors,the LULAC members,
life members,and distinguished members are not allowed to use Local, State, or National LULAC
assets, any variation of the LULAC name of symbol, LULAC scholarship money or other LULAC
property, either directly or implied,for personal monetary or material gain.Neither shall such members
contribute or assist toward a non-members gain of LULAC assets that are appropriated in an unauthorized
manner.
DIRECTIONS FOR PROPER USAGE OF"LULAC"
SERVICE MARKS PROTECTING VALUABLE RIGHTS
see National Bylaws
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National By-Laws
Article I
Section 3—Installation of Officers: The Installation Ceremony, herein set shall be used in
installing all National, State, District, and Local Council Officers, both elected and appointed.
No person may assume the duties of an office until he has been officially installed. The officers
to be installed shall take their place in front of the installing Officers with all officers to the
left of the President Elect. All members shall rise and remain standing while the oath of office
is administered.
PRESIDENT (or other installing Officer): "The oath you are about to take will impose a
grave obligation and responsibility on your shoulders, not only because of the duties
incumbent upon your respective officers, but because of the moral obligation you will assume,
those whom you shall be privileged to serve and who have placed their confidence in your
integrity as a person and as an officer to be. Realizing the scope of this obligation and
responsibility, are you willing to take this oath? If you are, answer, I am!"
"Please place your right hand upon your left breast and repeat after me: `I, (give your full
name), most solemnly promise that I will faithfully perform all the duties imposed upon me
as an officer of the League of United Latin American Citizens by its Constitution, Bylaws,
Protocol or by any resolution duly passed; that I shall zealously watch for the purity,progress
and prosperity of the League; and that I shall set a good example of a true and loyal American
in my own life. So help me God. I further promise to deliver to my successor in office all
books, papers and other property of the League that may be in my possession at the close of
my official term. All of this I solemnly promise, with the full knowledge that to violate this
pledge is to stamp me as a person devoid of principle and destitute of honor."
PRESIDENT(or other installing Officer): `By virtue of the authority vested in me, I hereby
declare that you have been duly installed in the respective offices for which you have been
elected.You will now proceed to your stations and perform the duties imposed upon you."
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Denton LULAC 4366
Properties to be handed over at the end of Presidency Term
• Keys to the PO Box (to new President & Treasurer)
• Bank Account: Check books, Signature transfer, Annual Treasurer Report,User&
Password to online banking
• Paypal: User&Password
• Facebook: Administrator rights
• Twitter: Administrator rights
• Natl LULAC Page: User&Password
• LULAC FED Income Tax: User&Password
• Gmail: User&Password
• Google Acct: User& Password
• Natl Prior Year Member List—for archive
• Natl Prior Year Membership Receipt of Payment—for archive
• Natl Prior Year Certificate Charter—for archive
• Natl Good Standing Letter—for archive
• Any Minutes amending LULAC 4366 By-Laws—for archive &update council by-laws
• Any and all keys, combinations,pass codes, logins for access to any and all physical
entities, etc. regarding and related to Denton LULAC Chapter 4366 not listed herein.
• Webpage: Kept by official WebMaster. Protocol for webpage calls for one person to
oversee the council Webpage. When WebMaster resigns, the council transfers
User/Rights to New WebMaster as voted by Council (Council 4366 2013).
January 2016:
Those marked with an asterisk * are national bylaws to be reviewed by Council 4366
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