Published by the International Longshore and Warehouse Union

www.ilwu.org VOL 77, NO 7 • JULY/AUGUST 2019

THE INSIDE NEWS

Local 7 clerical workers win contact battle 2

Canada marks 84th anniversary of the Battle of Ballntyne 3

Dispatcher changes ahead 3

TRANSITIONS 8

Taking action: IBU members picketed the MV Columbia in Ketchikan in late July. IBU workers on the Columbia, Flagship of the Marine Highway System fleet, were the first to strike this month – and the first to strike 42 years ago when the IBU was forced out in 1977. IBU Members Win

ILWU locals celebrate Bloody Thursday page 4 Strike at System

y late 2018, the Inland- year contract which included 31 ten- Background on health insurance boatmen’s Union of the tative agreements – contract changes The State offers workers a choice Pacific had been bar- approved and signed by both parties, of a standard plan or economy health B along with wage increases of 3%, 1%, gaining for 2 years to secure a insurance plans. Those who couldn’t 1%, and raising workers’ share of contract for 400 workers at the afford the standard plan, which costs health insurance premiums to 15%. members over $350 per month, Alaska Marine Highway System. The State’s offer also included no would choose the economy plan The IBU represents the largest adjustment to raise wages for crew- with high deductibles and more out- group of employees among members of the MV Lituya to help of-pocket costs, but no premium cost several unions that represent them reach parity with workers on sharing. When the state demanded public system workers. other vessels. It also left intact a cost IBU members to start paying 15% of of living differential (COLD) that paid On February 19, 2019, the newly the premiums for both plans, mem- non-resident union members about elected Governor released his pro- bers were determined to fight indefi- $4 dollars less per hour than Alas- posed budget that called for cutting nitely. They had also not received a kan residents – although the State the ferry system by more than 1/3, wage increase for 3 years, so this pro- agreed in principle to eliminate the along with slashing other public ser- posal would have set workers back COLD differential and boost the MV vices in Alaska, including educa- even further. Lituya wages, but had not yet signed- tion, senior housing and community State offers a 1-year roll-over off on those items. Members were medical aid. As the budget cuts were adamantly opposed to approving a When the IBU returned to bar- announced, a group of businesses contract with higher health premi- gaining under the new governor, the continued talking about privatizing ums. This made it impossible for the State offered a one year “roll over” of the public ferry system – talk that union to seek membership approval the contract, meaning no changes to continues to this day. of the “supposal” package. The State the terms and conditions, no wage In the last negotiations before the responded by shutting down nego- increases or health increases. We new governor took office, the State tiations hours before the election of were agreeable to this idea – until gave the IBU a “supposal” for a three- Governor Mike Dunleavy. continued on page 6 Postmaster: Send address changes to The Dispatcher, 1188 Franklin St., , CA 94109-6800. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Dispatcher, DISPATCHER • July/August 2019 1 Long game strategy yields big gain for Bellingham port workers LWU Local 7 Clerical work- Enter ILWU Lead Organizer, ers at the Port of Bellingham Jon Brier, who held several train- have ratified a three-year ings and coaching sessions that I helped the group discover their contract that covers reception- power away from the bargaining ists, clerks, accountants, secre- table. By organizing and uniting the taries, and operation specialists group, Brier helped them identify who work at Bellingham’s sea- their natural allies in the commu- side port facilities and nearby nity, such as other labor organiza- airport until 2022. tions like Jobs With Justice, and in The Negotiating Committee was turn amplify their power at the table composed of veterans Bryson Tripp with several very public displays of and Tony Flaherty – along with solidarity. With this larger base in recently drafted member and natural the community and with generous help from ILWU retirees like John Negotiating committee: (From left to right) Tony Flaherty, Bryson horse-trader Nick Erb. Tripp and Nick Erb. Munson, the whole bargaining unit Four years ago, Flaherty and soon realized they could punch well They also researched the Port’s finan- being delivered in the first year of Tripp represented the same group of above their weight. cial situation and gathered data on the contract. workers and helped secure their last comparable jobs at other ports in contract negotiated under very dif- The results were better than Well done Local 7 - way to orga- their region. ferent circumstances. The economy expected, but still far from what was nize, unite, and fight to win the long then was still under major duress and needed to keep up with Bellingham’s The organizing, solidarity and game! some port commissioners were indif- rising cost of living. Since that last research paid off big-time in recent Submitted by IBU Puget Sound ferent and recalcitrant. So the bar- round however, Flaherty, Tripp, and bargaining when they negotiated, Regional Director Peter Hart and gaining team played the long game other Port workers kept organizing, and members ratified, an agreement IBU Puget Sound Passenger by developing a working relationship building new relationships, and par- to boost wages 18% over four years. Business Agent Ryan Brazeau with the Bellingham community. ticipating in local solidarity efforts. Nearly half of the big increase is BALMA celebrates 2019 scholarship winners

he Bay Area Longshore- Students were treated to a dinner Harry Bridges Memorial recipi- Contreras, LaSarah Cheney, Luke men’s Memorial Asso- held in the Henry Schmidt Room, ents were Natalie So, Ayana’a Sud- Duhagon, Loryn Hall, Kiana Boze- ciation (BALMA) held where they mingled with BALMA duth, Tyler Lee, Maya Jenkins, Bran- man, Allyson Bacuyani, Geordan T leaders, including President John don Martinez, Kidest Befikadu, Aileen Scott, Joel Alem, Ayren Griffen and their 2019 scholarship awards Castanho, Vice-President Trevyn Villalpando, Emelyn Alvarez, Richard Gemma Lira Araujo. dinner on Tuesday, June 25th McCoy, Secretary Vanetta Hamlin, Lira Gonzalez, Alfredo Lira, Christy BALMA Scholarship winners at local #10 in San Francisco. Treasurer Mike Villeggiante, Secre- Lira Araujo, Nicole Elmore, Alyssa were Alfredo Orellana, Anthony The event celebrates promis- tary Angelique Meyer, along with Gaskin, Krista Semenero, Dariyona Ong, Lillian Torres-Mendez. Kobe ing students chosen to receive volunteers Gina Villeggiante, Noelle Bridges and Maryalexis Gutierrez. Kiener and Lanell Cheney. support from one of six dif- DeMartini and Larissa David. Jean- Frank Cresci Scholarship recip- ILWU Credit Union recipients ferent scholarship programs. nette Morino, Business Development ients were Sarah Sensabaugh and were Kendal Reed, Olubori Babaoye, All applications were judged Specialist for the ILWU Credit Union Janet Lira Gonzalez. Delilah Beverly, Trinity So, Jaleal Wil- Credit Union, also attended. by an outside advisor not af- William “Bill” Chester Scholar- liams-Evans and Marco Anguiano. Winners of the Jeffress Memo- filiated with BALMA. ship winners were Jessica Gonzalez, rial were Au’Jay Griffin & Reginald Ashley Jack, Ty’Jah Banks, Jazmin McKinney.

CORRECTION: The obituary for William “Bill” Watkins in the May, 2019 issue of The Dispatcher incorrectly stated that he had served a term as Local 10 President. His years of service included many positions, including Secretary-Treasurer, but not President.

ILWU TITLED OFFICERS Craig Merrilees William E. Adams, President The Dispatcher (ISSN 0012-3765) is published monthly except for a combined July/Aug issue, for $5.00 a year and $10.00 a year for non-members by the ILWU, 1188 Franklin St., San Francisco, Communications Director and Managing Editor Bobby Olvera, Jr., Vice President, Mainland CA 94109. Periodical postage paid at San Francisco, CA. The Dispatcher welcomes letters, Roy San Filippo Wesley Furtado, Vice President, Hawaii photos and other submissions to the above address © ILWU, 2012. Postmaster: Send address Editor Edwin Ferris, Secretary-Treasurer changes to The Dispatcher, 1188 Franklin St., San Francisco, CA 94109-6800.

2 DISPATCHER • July/August 2019 ILWU Canada honors the 84th anniversary of the Battle of Ballantyne Pier n June 18th, over 40 Rob Ashton. “It means we are alive ILWU members, pen- and can continue to fight on. Those sioners, and supporters four letters, ILWU, have given genera- O tions of our people something to live gathered at the Ballantyne me- for. And as we know in the past, it morial at New Brighton Park in has been the reason why some people Vancouver, BC to commemorate have died—not because they wanted the 84th anniversary of the Battle to, but because they stood up for the of Ballantyne Pier and remember ILWU. When we stand up for this the militant history of Vancouver great union, it means we stand up waterfront workers. for the rest of the labor movement. We know what happens when you Recognizing the First Nations let your guard down if you relax from Joulene Parent from Local 500 the fight­—governments, police, and opened the event by acknowledging corporations will try and steamroll that the event was held on the unceded you even harder and faster. The only land of the Squamish, Musqueam, and way we defend ourselves is with our Tsleil-Waututh peoples. strength and our solidarity.” “We make this recognition at all of The Battle of Ballantyne Pier our labor events because it is not just Dave Lomas, Pensioner from ILWU history, it is also about moving for- Local 500, who has extensively research- ward,” Parent said. ed the history of the battle, gave a detailed Kill a Worker, Go to Jail story of the Battle of Ballantyne. ILWU Canada’s Second Vice Presi- Ballantyne Pier was the site of a dent, Dan Kask served as the master of pitched battle between 1,000 locked Three generations honor Ballantyne struggle: from left to right, ceremonies. He drew attention to the out dockworkers and police in Vancou- Skip Anderson (Local 514), Ricky Anderson (Local 500), Brock Anderson (Local 502), and Brian Anderson (Local 514). recent 61st anniversary of the collapse ver, , on June 18th, of the Iron Workers Memorial Bridge 1935. The Battle of Ballantyne was a The conflict spread to other dock- tive agreement—in 1935 we saw what which could be seen just across the part of the long history of militant trade ers in the region. Vancouver longshore a conspiracy between the employer river. Nineteen workers died during unionism by Canadian longshore work- workers were also locked-out after they and government coming together to the accident. ers and ultimately laid the foundation refused to unload ships coming from undermine workers looks like,” said Kask then pointed out the banner for the formation of ILWU Canada. Powell River. longshore work- Graeme Johnston President of the behind the podium featuring ILWU After a decade of successful orga- ers, in an act of solidarity, refused to BC Ferry & Marine Workers Union. Canada’s Kill a Worker, Go to Jail cam- nizing and strikes by the International unload ships coming from Vancouver “We workers continue to fight in the paign. “The purpose of the campaign Longshoremen’s Association (ILA), the and Powell River that were loaded by streets, in the board rooms, in their is to bring awareness to the short-com- employers broke the back of the ILA non-union workers. union halls, to build power and fight ings of Industrial manslaughter laws in during a 1923 strike and replaced it On June 18th, approximately 1,000 back against the employer and to get Canada and the lack of enforcement of with a company union, the Vancouver longshore workers and supporters the rights that they deserve.” those laws,’ Kask said. and District Waterfront Workers’ Asso- marched through Vancouver towards History lesson The crowd observed a moment of ciation (VDWWA). Workers eventually Ballantyne Pier where non-union work- President Stephen von Sychowski silence for the workers killed in the overcame this tactic by electing their ers were unloading ships. The workers of the Vancouver & District Labour bridge collapse and for two ILWU leaders and forcing the union to address were blocked at the pier by hundreds Council reminded the crowd that members, Everett Cummings and Don their interests and not the employers. of armed police officers. The dockers future victories are sometimes built on Jantz who were killed on the water- In 1935 The Shipping Federation came under attack from the police and the lessons learned in defeats. front in the past year. provoked another major strike in the Mounties. Workers were beaten with “Change could be delayed, but “Today means a lot for our spring of 1935 and locked-out workers clubs as they tried to run to safety, while it couldn’t be stopped because long- union,” said ILWU Canada President at the port at Powell River. many others tried fighting back, using shore workers continued to fight and makeshift weapons. Police attacked ultimately the demands of 1935 were the union hall with tear gas where the Look for new ideas in future achieved, and the ILWU grew to women’s Auxiliary had set a first aid sta- become one of the largest and stron- issues of The Dispatcher tion. Several people were hospitalized gest unions in our Province,” von during the three-hour battle, including A brainstorming session in July led by International President Willie Adams, Sychowski said. Vice-President (Mainland) Bobby Olvera, Jr., and Secretary-Treasurer Ed Ferris, a worker who had been shot in the back resulted in a host of new ideas, including many that will begin appearing in of his legs. This theme is echoed in the musi- cal, The Battle of Ballantyne Pier, future issues of The Dispatcher. The battle was a tactical defeat for according to director Sherry MacDon- 4 ILWU International officers hope to submit columns, as often as they the longshore workers, but they contin- ald. “Lecture speaks to the mind, but have time to write, providing their views on union concerns in the ILWU ued the struggle to form a union inde- drama speaks to the heart. In The Bat- and beyond. pendent of the Shipping Federation, tle of Ballantyne Pier, you will see every 4 and in 1937 ILWU Canada was born. Space for ideas from young leaders in the ILWU will also be made day, average characters fall and get available, along with an invitation for all members to submit ideas or Enduring lessons back up again and eventually become questions to a “suggestion box.” The 2019 line-up featured several stronger for it and this is the story of 4 Spring and Fall issues will include an article about family travel speakers who highlighted the enduring unionism on the waterfront,” she said. opportunities – emphasizing union hotels and attractions – as well as lessons of the Battle of Ballantyne Pier Local 400 member and member of attractions to avoid if they’re being boycotted. and the dockworkers struggle of that era. the Young Workers Committee, Kyle 4 The Dispatcher will begin profiling local unions – selected at random – “It’s a bloody reminder that the Knapton said the key lesson of 1935 looking at challenges, accomplishments and surprises that deserve to be rights we enjoy today are the result of was rank-and-file participation in our shared. tangible sacrifices made by working unions. “What can we take away from 4 March issues will honor International Women’s Day, profiling female people,” said President Laird Cronk this? The only chance we have against leaders and activists in our union and the broader labor movement. of the Vancouver Federation of Labor. the attempts to undermine our rights 4 We hope to create a special section in future issues for members to share “The themes of bad faith bargaining, as workers is to actively participate in their story about a tattoo or nickname. union-busting, and employer intimida- our unions,” Knapton said. “The youth 4 Pensioners will be encouraged to share ideas and insights from their tion—these are not just challenges of need to step forward and get involved many years in the union, called, “I’ve got a story to share. the past.” at meetings, in committees attend The Dispatcher remains open to your constructive ideas, suggestions and “Battle of Ballantyne speaks to events and continue to fight for our feedback. Letters to the editor offering different points of view are the struggle that we go through every rights that our predecessors gave their encouraged. Email to [email protected] day, every time we bargain a collec- lives for.”

DISPATCHER • July/August 2019 3 ILWU honors Bloody Thursday along West Coast on July 5th Dufresne’s remarks were typi- Craig Bavis who presented the Local cally brief and gracious, as he thanked with a historic photo. members and families for attending President Adams both the solemn and celebratory events International President Adams that day. wrapped-up the event with his obser- The next speaker was Secretary- vations about the past and future of the Treasurer Sussanne Skidmore of BC’s ILWU. Federation of Labour, well-known in “When I look out at those of you the region for leading social justice here today, I’m confident that we will Double celebration: Local 502 held a celebration commemorating the 75th campaigns. anniversary of their founding struggle and Bloody Thursday. (From left to right): Local continue moving forward. In 1934, the 502 members Aaron Hoolsema, and Jessica Isbister, Local 502 President Tom Doran, President Ashton West Coast ports were like an open ILWU International President Willie Adams, Local 500 President Rino Voci, Local 500 ILWU Canada President Rob Ash- powder keg, and the spark of Harry member Antonio Pantusa, ILWU Canada President Rob Ashton, ILWU Canada’s 2nd ton explained Local 502’s origins that Bridges and the union set it off. They Vice President and Local 502 member Dan Kask. began 75 years ago and the relevance lit the torch and darkness fled. Today, ach July 5th, thousands of Honoring First Nations of those struggles to the present. up and down the West Coast, includ- ing here in Canada, we are fighting for ILWU members, families Local 502 member Jessida Isbis- “We can’t forget where we came from because it provides us with a path working class people. We are work- and friends gather to honor ter, asked everyone to recognize that E to travel in the future,” he said. “Our ing class people. I hate it when people today’s park is located in the tradi- seven strikers who were killed say they are middle class. We came tional territory of Musqueam, Squa- union was born out of struggle, and in 1934 during the West Coast from working class neighborhoods mish and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations we continue to live in struggle, because and working class families. Our par- Maritime Strike that gave rise to people. She noted the ILWU’s sup- that is who we are. This is what gives ents and grandparents marched so we today’s International Longshore port for indigenous rights, includ- us strength and purpose. Those of you all could have a better day. Those who and Warehouse Union. ing the union’s backing for Canada’s in Local 502 just went through a hell of died in 1934 during the West Coast This year marked the 85th anni- Truth and Reconciliation Commission, a struggle in your last longshore con- Maritime Strike are what I call the versary of “Bloody Thursday” that was which published a report in 2015 con- tract battle against an employer who Magnificent Seven. Their graves con- honored at events held from Vancou- taining 94 “calls to action” that have yet wanted to break and crush us. But we tain more than just bodies; it’s where ver, Canada to , and many to be fully implemented. She then rec- stood tall. We rose above what they our honor, our pride and our dignity points between. ognized Chief Rhonda Larabee of the expected us to do. It was solidarity— comes from. I look at the diversity in Qayqayt First Nations, who delivered a the strength of the whole—that carried Vancouver, Canada Local 502, and see all the young work- traditional welcome, noting: our great union forward in the past ILWU Local 502 held a double cel- and helped us win again last month. ers, women and old-timers who have “We are gathered here today to cele- ebration: honoring the 75th anniver- So today, as we celebrate the birth of taught us so much about our history. brate the 75th anniversary of ILWU local sary of their founding struggle in 1944, our union, let’s remember those who We have some big shoes to fill, but we 502. It was on this day in 1944 that rep- along with a memorial recognizing the were murdered on this day in 1934. are going to be alright – because we resentatives of the ILWU International 85th anniversary of Bloody Thursday. Let’s celebrate the birth of Local 502 can depend on our rank-and-file. The presented the new charter to the long- Speakers and special guests included that took place 75 years ago. And let’s strength of the ILWU has never been in shore workers in New Westminster.” ILWU Canada President Rob Ashton, always remember that the betterment its leaders—leaders are like the wind, ILWU Canada Second Vice-Presi- President Emeritus Tom Dufresne, and of the whole overpowers the want of we come and go over the land and we dent Dan Kask followed, adding: International President Willie Adams. the individual.” pass on, but the salt of the earth is the “We’re also here to acknowledge the A day filled with entertainment and Stepher Crozior, President of the rank-and-file. Today we stand on this 85th anniversary of Bloody Thursday. education drew 200 attendees to the New Westminster and District Labour holy ground, where people before us It was on this day in 1934 in San Fran- waterfront at New Westminster Pier Councils followed Ashton, as did long- were hurt and maimed. We have a cisco that two men, Howard Sperry and Park – site of the former Pacific Coast time New Westminster City Coun- history and pride that must be main- Nicholas Bordais, were shot in the back Terminal that operated when Local cil member Chuck Puchmayr who tained – as long as we are willing to by police. This event led to the great San 502 was chartered in 1944. Before any worked seven years as a longshoreman continue fighting for the working class Francisco General Strike and is remem- food was served or the face-painting with Locals 500 and 502. and for our union.” bered as an important step in the forma- and photo booths were opened, those Next up were former Local 502 Southern attending were asked to reflect on their tion of our great union.” officers Gerry White and Joe Breaks, Over one-thousand miles south, waterfront’s recent and ancient history, Kask then recognized ILWU Can- now active pensioners who continue ILWU members from Southern Cali- going back thousands of years. ada President Emeritus Tom Dufresne, helping their union and played a key fornia Locals in the Harbor Area began thanking him for leading their union role in producing the book, “Longshor- gathering early for the largest Bloody for 16 years and “working tirelessly for ing on the Fraser – Stories and History Thursday event on the West Coast, the rights of waterfront workers.” Now of ILWU Local 502.” beginning with a somber memorial retired, Dufresne is still consulted for Current Local 502 President Tom service in the morning and concluding advice and serves on the Board of Brit- Doron was recognized and added some with a massive afternoon picnic offer- ish Columbia’s Labour Heritage Centre brief remarks, as did labor attorney ing food and entertain for thousands of in Burnaby. family members and friends. Morning reflection The morning memorial at Roos- evelt Memorial Park in Gardena takes place each year to honor the fallen mar- tyrs Dickie Parker and John Knudsen. About 100 people gathered at Parker’s gravesite to reflect on the sacrifices made by the first two West Coast mari- time strikers to die in 1934 when the ILWU was born. Parker and Knudsen were both shot and killed by company-employed secu- rity guards. The shootings occurred just after midnight on May 15, 1934 at Berth 145 in Wilmington. Dickie Parker died while being transported to the hospi- tal. John Knudsen suffered for several Hungry crowd: Coast Benefits Specialist John Castanho and other vol- Family time: Nine-year-old Navea Beacham weeks before dying from the gunshot unteers served tamales, beans, rice and enchiladas to the hungry crowd at the with her auntie Brenda Lacey celebrated at the Bloody Thursday celebration in San Francisco. Local 10 hall in San Francisco. continued on page 5

4 DISPATCHER • July/August 2019 The picnic featured free - rence Thibeaux who explained why ers, fries, tacos and snow-cones. Kids the concept of solidarity remains as were entertained with giant slides, relevant today as it was in 1934. Local bouncy houses and carnival-style 10 President Melvin Mackay warned games. Live music was performed in that gains from past struggles could be the park throughout the afternoon. lost unless members mobilize – and he “This is more than a picnic or just urged everyone to join the campaign time to hang out with family,” said to save Oakland’s working waterfront Local 13 member John Seixas. “It’s also from being given to developers for a a time to reflect on the sacrifices that baseball stadium and luxury condos. were made by workers up and down Local 34 President Keith Shanklin the coast. It was their sacrifices that read a poem asking union members to laid the foundations for the ILWU.” respect their union and not take it for Local 13 President Familathe granted. BALMA Treasurer Mike Vil- addressed the crowd at the picnic, leggiante delivered a short essay about reminding everyone of the sacrifices the impact of automation on the docks made by Parker, Knudsen and other and the need to help a new generation of longshore workers get training and Time to reflect: Local 13 members John Seixas (left) and Antony Rosellini strikers along the West Coast. “They skills to manage the new technology. reflected on the meaning of Bloody Thursday. “This is a fight for the middle-class,” were fighting for good wages and con- Rosellini said. “People died to lay the foundation for the wages and conditions on the ditions on the waterfront and unfortu- Historian Harvey Schwartz provided docks. We all have to work to carry that forward for future generations.” nately lost their lives. Today we have details and insight about the 1934 good contracts, but the struggles we strike. Pensioner Gene Vrana warned face today will affect how future gener- of lessons to be learned from the con- ations work on the waterfront.” Fami- flict 85 years ago, and noting some lathe encouraged everyone to turn disturbing political parallels between out for the next LA Harbor Commis- events then and now, including the rise sion meeting in July where the issue of of authoritarian leaders who divide the automation would be debated again. working class and threaten democracy. Other speakers at the picnic included The event was closed by Anchor Brew- Local 13 Vice President Gary Herrera, ery worker Garrett Kelly who delivered Los Angeles City Councilmember Joe a brief but inspiring call for worker Buscaino and LA Harbor Commis- unity and action. sioner Diane Middleton – all of whom Lunch and entertainment followed recognized the effort by members who with a sit-down buffet and outdoor joined the automation mobilizations. grills. Kids enjoyed cotton candy, This year’s Harbor Area events clowns, balloon art and face painting. were organized by a Committee that Musicians performed during lunch and included Nacho Enriquez, Melon Cae- throughout the afternoon. sar Hall, Mary Lou Taliulu, John Seixas, The events were produced by the Family time: Local 26 member Ernie Gomez with Jac and Luc Gomez. Franc Bodnar, Paul Zuanich, Donnie Bay Area Longshoremen’s Memorial Ciamataro and a host of volunteers. Association (BALMA), which made a special point of thanking the ILWU SF Bay Area Credit Union, Locals 10, 34, 75, 91 the The “Bloody Thursday” events that Drill Team, Pensioners Club, Auxiliary saw two San Francisco strikers shot in 17 and “volunteer extraordinaire” Kel- the back by police, happened almost ley Kane of Local 10. Union staff vol- two months after the “first blood” was unteered to serve food and run errands spilled at the Port of Los Angeles. But that made the day a success. Artwork the general strike that followed the July featured on “Bloody Thursday” buttons 5th incident in San Francisco won mas- and t-shirts were produced by Local 10 sive support from workers throughout artists Olubori Babaoye, Alonzo Guti- the city who organized a general strike errez, Jennifer Hale, Paul “from ‘da and generated impressive public sym- Morning memorial: An estimated 100 ILWU members gathered at the grave- hall” Williams. site of Dickie Parker to honor the sacrifices made by West Coast Maritime Strikers in pathy. Public support for striking long- 1934. From left to right: SCDC President Cathy Familathe, ILWU Local 13 President Ray shore workers captured national atten- Familathe, Local 13 member Angel Blanco, Local 94 President Danny Miranda, PCPA tion and pressured President Franklin President Greg Mitre, ILWU International Vice President Bobby Olvera, Jr. and Local Roosevelt to settle the strike on favor- 13 Vice President Gary Herrera. able terms for the union. wounds. Public reaction to the kill- “We come here to pay our respects 85 years later. Bay Area ILWU ings was impressive, with an estimated to John Knudsen and Dickie Parker. We members still gather every July 5th to 8,000 people lining the streets from San also honor our other union brothers who re-create the bloody sidewalk scene Pedro to Gardena for the six-mile-long have fallen, including the tragic accident where Howard Sperry and Nick Bor- funeral procession. this year on May 15th when Jose San- doise were fatally wounded. Chalk Among those attending the July 5th toyo was killed on the job,” Familathe outlines of the men’s crumpled bodies memorial service were ILWU Interna- said the struggles of 1934 should con- are adorned with flowers and wreathes, tional Vice President (Mainland) Bobby tinue inspiring current and future gen- just as they were 85 years ago. Olvera, Jr., Local 13 President Ray erations so that the union’s legacy can be Longtime ILWU Local 10 leader Familathe, Local 94 President Danny preserved for future members. and Bay Area Pensioners President, Miranda, Local 13 Vice President Gary Procession and picnic Lawrence Thibeaux served as the Herrera, Southern California District Master of Ceremonies. He introduced When the brief service and the Council President Cathy Familathe and Local 10’s Scott Barton who played cemetery concluded, a group of mem- Pacifica Coast Pensioners Association “taps” on his bugle, followed by the bers with classic cars joined the Long- (PCPA) President Greg Mitre. Local 10 Drill Team that served as an shoremen’s Motorcycle Club to form Honor Guard for the fallen martyrs. A The service started with a beautiful a mock funeral procession that fol- beautiful and soulful rendition of the solo rendition of the national anthem, lowed an empty hearse provided by Searching for treasure: Local national anthem was provided by Aali- 21’s Bloody Thursday picnic featured followed by a benediction and prayer. All Soul’s Mortuary in Long Beach. The yah -Purry, followed by a “treasure hunt” for kids who found PCPA Poet Laureate Jerry Brady recited cars and bikes headed to the Harbor Paul “from ‘da hall” Williams who sang quarters, half-dollars and dollar coins his poem honoring the sacrifices of Sports Complex where families were hidden in the hay. Volunteers who Amazing Grace. Parker and Knudsen. gathering for the Bloody Thursday pic- helped organize the annual event Local 13 President Familathe nic. The site has been used since 2017 Seven speakers then followed included Brian Grimes, Daniel Rundell, Kelly Coffman, Rick Masters, Calvin Coirl thanked all the members and pen- because it is one of the few that can with reflections on the 85th anniver- sary of Bloody Thursday, led by Law- and Rich Newman. sioners from ILWU harbor-area ILWU handle the 2,000 family members and continued on page 7 Locals who attended the memorial. friends who attend each year. DISPATCHER • July/August 2019 5 Walking for a cure: The South Sound Multiple Sclerosis walk was held on Saturday April 13th at the Chambers Bay Golf course. The co-captains of the ILWU Local 23 team, Holly Hulscher and Lisa Cole, walked along with other longshore fam- ily members and friends while proudly wearing union made team t-shirts. The Local 23 team raised a total of $14,000 this year to help fight Multiple Sclerosis. Money was collected from two fundrais- ing events, raffle ticket sales and donations raised by the walkers. “I’m proud to be a member of the largest team to participate in the walk” said longtime-walker and retired Longshore mechanic Mike Belaya. “I’m always impressed with how our union always responds by giving back to our community when it’s called for.”

IBU Members Win Strike at Alaska Marine Highway System continued from page 1 LeConte and MV Kennicott. We joined at 3:00am in Juneau where the crew On July 30, the State sent a letter they informed us that all 31 of the ten- Executive Committee Vice Chair Robb finished offloading then walked-off to members notifying them that their tative agreements were now rescinded Arnold to vote the members of the MV the vessel. The MV Matanuska was in healthcare coverage would end on July and off the table. They said we’d have Malaspina. We also offered an online the shipyard in Portland. Port Captain 31, if they remained on strike. In addi- to re-negotiate each of those in the next ballot for the members who couldn’t Staples from Ketchikan Central Office tion, the non-union, substandard Inter- contract negotiations, a year out. They get a paper ballot, including crew- (KCO) sent word to the Captains to Island Ferry Authority (IFA) was push- also made it very clear that there was members of the MV Matanuska. On have each IBU member “sign or get off ing to get the MV Lituya moved off the no guarantee they would agree to the June 19, 2019, the votes were tallied, the boat or we are calling reinforce- terminal so IFA could run their ferry previously negotiated tentative agree- with members overwhelmingly reject- ments.” When the crew refused to sign, from Metlakatla to Ketchikan, replac- ments. This was unacceptable, so we ing the State’s proposal and authoriz- they were ordered to vacate the ship ing our service. Southern California chose to continue bargaining our con- ing the Negotiations Committee to call and walked-off at 2:00pm on July 25. Patrolman Mike Vera called upon his tract. We felt the State was only surface a strike. Columbia River Regional Director Brian friends and family in Metlakatla who bargaining – talking with no real inten- Dodge met with the crew on the next joined our members to stand guard on Union goes into mediation tion of reaching an agreement, so we day and helped them organize a picket the picket line. John Fageaux, President of ILWU demanded that they provide us with line outside the Portland shipyard. There was a tremendous amount Local 63-Office Clerical Unit (OCU), a written proposal by May 15, 2019. The MV Kennicott arrived in Ket- of pressure from the employer on joined our negotiations team to lend They responded with a written pro- chikan on July 25 at 3:00pm and Kris- members. I am proud to say that IBU assistance. We contacted the Federal posal that included a one-time lump sel tried to board the vessel, but State members didn’t waiver in their com- Mediation & Conciliation Service, sum payment of $1000 on January 1, Troopers, requested by the Central mitment. They were prepared to fight requested their help and went into 2021, to offset their proposal requir- Office, wouldn’t let her on the ramp. until we got a settlement. And they did mediation on July 15 and 17. Dur- ing members with the economy plan to The MV Kennicott crew had received so with pride and honor ing that process, the State agreed to begin paying part of their health pre- an intimidating notice from Captain increase the lump sum to $1500 and Regional Director Trina Arnold miums on January 1, 2021. The pre- John Falvey, General Manager of the offered to include 3 of our 31 tenta- was similarly impressed with the soli- mium increases amounted to a $60 Ketchikan Central Office, the same tive agreements, but with no wage darity she saw during the strike. monthly increase for singles and $160 notice that was given on the MV Mata- increases. After several rounds the “It was amazing to watch some for a family, so the one-time lump sum nuska, asserting that IBU members had Union gave the State a “last, best and of the passengers of the MV Mala- would have a short-lived impact, cov- to declare whether they were striking final” proposal – informing them we spina get off the ship and join our ering only 6 months of higher costs for or working. He said those who elect to would strike if they did not respond. picket line in Juneau at 3:00 am. In a family, along with the prospect of strike would not be paid and ordered We waited until 4:00pm on July 17th fact, the public support continued to more increases in the future. The State the Captains to hand each member and received nothing from the State. grow each day. The cars would honk “supposal” did include our proposal to the notice. Krissel was finally able to We left the meeting to vote our mem- and wave as they drove by. A taxicab increase the wages of crewmembers on meet the crew outside the tube, near bers on this new proposal and prepare owner lent us one of his cabs to get the MV Lituya. the guard shack at the Vigor Shipyard, for a strike. to and from town. It turns out he was Union members vote and the majority walked-off. The MV a former member of the Marine Engi- Strike after talks broke down Our Negotiations Committee told Aurora arrived in Valdez on July 24. neers Beneficial Association (MEBA) the State that we could not recommend When members voted on the We had a phone meeting with the crew who used to work with us at the their proposal, but would ask members State’s final offer, 86% voted to strike. and they reported that management Marine Highway System. People were to vote on it. I rode the MV Columbia as On July 24, 2019, after the MV offered to leave them on the vessel with dropping food off for our picketers up it travelled from Ketchikan to Juneau, Columbia arrived in Ketchikan and pay, but the following day they received until the end of the strike. Members to vote the members onboard. Patrol- passengers were offloaded, IBU Patrol- the same “strike or work” demand let- offered one of the passengers a room woman Krissel Calibo flew to Kenai, woman Krissel Calibo boarded the ship, ter, and members walked off the ship in their home because she didn’t have then rented a car and drove to Whittier and the crew walked-off with pride – as directed by the union. The MV Tus- anywhere else to stay. I realize this where she met the MV Aurora, then marking the beginning of our strike at tumena arrived in Kodiak on July 24 was hard on our members, but I know went to Homer where she met mem- 2:00pm. Then the MV Tazlina crew fin- and received the same demand letter. we will all treasure the memories we bers working on the MV Tustumena so ished offloading in Juneau at 4:30pm, On July 25, crew members walked off have of the solidarity on our picket they could vote. All ballots were then and Executive Board Chair Earling the ship as directed by the union. lines. We’ll be telling these stories to brought to Juneau. Voting for crews Walli boarded the ship and walked-off Unfortunately, it must be noted each other for years to come.” on vessels arriving in Juneau were han- with the crew. Regional Director Trina that a few crew members did not fol- Solidarity rallies were held on July dled by Alaska Regional Director Trina Arnold and Earling then boarded the low the union’s order to leave the ships. 29, in Bellingham, Washington, orga- Arnold and myself, who met crew- MV LeConte at 8:30pm and did the This internal matter will be taken up nized by Terri Mast, IBU Secretary Trea- same. Arnold met the MV Malaspina members from the MV Tazlina, MV by the Alaska Region. continued on page 7

6 DISPATCHER • July/August 2019 ILWU honors Bloody Thursday along West Coast on July 5th continued from page 5 Degman & the Rogue River Band. Vol- Portland unteers served hot dogs, chili, chips Portland-area ILWU members and ice cream. held their 85th Annual July 5th Everyone enjoyed the bingo games Memorial Picnic at Oaks Amusement provided by Auxiliary 5. Park where the event has been located Thanks to Local 8 Vice President for many years. Adam Wetzell, President Bruce Holte The effort attracted about 100 fam- and Secretary Mike Stanton for their ily members and friends from Locals 5, leadership. 8, 40, 92, the Inlandboatmen’s Union, John Farr and other volunteers ran Auxiliary 5, Columbia River Pensioners the kitchen, while Tom Wehage sold and the Local 8 Federal Credit Union. raffle tickets and Auxiliary 5 members Each of these organizations also con- coordinated the bingo games. Steffen tributed donations that made the pic- Hill and his crew sold discount wrist- nic a success. bands for the amusement rides and To recognize the sacrifice of Pacific helped with permits. Maritime Strikers 85 years ago, a brief Longview memorial service was held, ending Local 21 members held their with a wreath of flowers being placed Bloody Thursday picnic in a new loca- into the current of the Willamette River tion this year; Willow Grove Park along while Paul Grainnard played taps. the shore of the Columbia River. The During the picnic, live music was site is owned by the Port of Longview provided by Local 8 member Dave continued on page 8

Pensioners at the picnic: The July 5th event at Vasa Park in Seattle brought together several generations of longshore workers, including children who played in the lake and bounce house.

Picnic in Portland: Sisters Ashley Evans, Stephanie Evans and Rachael Evans were at the Oaks Amusement Park with Geri Cranston and her brother Bobby. About 100 participated in this year’s event on banks of the Willamette River. Smokin’ hot! Grill-masters at the Seattle picnic included (L-R) Jarad Felker, Mark Williams, Robby Knutz, Nick Budinich and Charlie Wilbert. IBU Members Win Strike at Alaska Marine Highway System continued from page 6 “The last Alaska ferry strike was in management had used in the past to President Sara Nelson of the Flight surer, and at picket lines in Juneau, Ket- 1977, but right now workers are stand- get a settlement. We went around the Attendants, sent the following mes- chikan, Valdez and July 28 in Kodiak. ing together and stopping service until clock trading proposals until 1:00am, sage to us on Friday August 2, 2019, Solidarity messages were received from they get an agreement after years of when we broke until 2:00pm the next at 3:00am, upon hearing we reached Tlingit and Haida First Nations, the negotiations. We stand with IBU and day. ILWU President Willie Adams a settlement, “Way to go, BREAKING Master, Mates & Pilots, Marine Engi- MEBAUNION @ MMPUnion who are and Vice-President (Mainland) Bobby NEWS: Inlandboatmen’s Union (IBU) neers Beneficial Assn., American Radio honoring the strike in solidarity.” Olvera attended to show their sup- just arrived at a tentative agreement port that afternoon. We went back with Alaska Marine Highway. And I Assn., Maritime Labor Alliance, Inter- Resolution and return to work national Longshore Association, Sailors’ into mediation and traded proposals hear it’s a good one! Picket lines are Beth Schindler, Director of the Fed- Union Pacific, Utility Workers Union of until we reached a deal at 1:00am on coming down. When we fight, we win!” eral Mediation and Conciliation Ser- America, BC Ferry and Marine Work- August 2, 2019. We secured all 31 of A special thank you to everyone vice, stepped-in as we resumed media- ers Union, Maritime Union of Austra- the tentative agreements, along with who assisted in some way with plan- tion on July 27 and 28. We made some lia, ILWU International, ILWU Alaska modest wage increases. We limited ning, strategies, political outreach, ral- real progress, but then things stalled Longshore Division, ILWU Local 200 the premium share to a more modest lies, messaging and more. Most of all, and she decided we needed a break. Alaska, ILWU-PCPA Pensioners, ILWU increase that would affect the economy thank you to our amazing members The outstanding issues were the wage Local 13, ILWU Local 63 OCU, IBU SF plan during the last 6 months of the in Alaska, for without their continued increases, health premium sharing for Region, Puget Sound Region, Hawaii contract, offset by a one-time lump- solidarity and commitment, this could the economy plan, and the remaining Region, Columbia River Region, South- sum payment from the State. We also not have been achieved. We dared to tentative agreements – which included ern California Region, Region 37, IBU reduced the non-residential differential stand up and fight back at this turbu- many protections for members, plus Longshore, Nakliyat-ls – Trade Union of by 20%. lent time in Alaska, we kept our focus the COLD differential for non-resident Revolutionary Workers of Land Airway During our final 2 days of media- on getting a fair contract and we won! Union members. and Railway workers of Turkey, Trans- tion, we had a solid picket line outside – Marina V. Secchitano By July 30, the political environ- portation Trades Department, Vice our meeting – with supporters who IBU President ment was heating-up. Coastal legisla- President Joe Biden, Senator Bernie played drums and chanted – refus- tors worried that pressure was mount- Sanders, Senator Elizabeth Warren and ing to leave until we got a contract. ing to get the running. The Senator Kamala Harris. We heard them say, what seemed like union returned to mediation July 30, Sara Nelson, International Presi- thousands of times: “What do you joined by ILWU Secretary-Treasurer dent of Association of Flight Attendants- want? A fair contract! When do you Ed Ferris. The State brought in an CWA, AFL-CIO, sent us a message: want it? NOW!” attorney, Jim Baird, from Chicago, who

DISPATCHER • July/August 2019 7 A Helping Hand...... when you need it most. That’s what we’re all about. We are the representatives of the ILWU- sponsored recovery programs. We provide professional and confidential assistance to you and your family for alcoholism, drug abuse and other problems—and we’re just a phone call away.

ILWU LONGSHORE DIVISION ADRP—Oregon ADRP—Southern California Brian Harvey Tamiko Love 5201 SW Westgate Dr. #207 29000 South Western Ave., Ste 205 Portland, OR 97221 Impressive donation: Nine years ago, ILWU Local 502 became more active in Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 local charities. Since then, the Local’s combined contribution to their local Children’s (503) 231-4882 (310) 547-9966 Hospital has reached $333,518. This year alone, the union donated $39,502. Local 502 members work on the Fraser Surrey Dock, Westshore Terminals and Deltaport. ADRP—Washington ADRP—Northern California Donnie Schwendeman Hunny Powell 3600 Port of Tacoma Rd. #503 [email protected] Tacoma, WA 98424 ILWU honors Bloody Thursday 400 North Point (253) 922-8913 San Francisco, CA 94133 (415) 776-8363 along West Coast on July 5th ILWU CANADA continued from page 7 unteers included Kelly Coffman, Rick ILWU WAREHOUSE DIVISION EAP—British Columbia and the price was right, so “it was a Masters, Calvin Coirl and Rich New- DARE—Northern California John Felicella no-brainer,” according to veteran pic- man. Pensioners and Auxiliary mem- Teamsters Assistance Program 3665 Kingsway, Ste 300 nic organizer Daniel Rundell. He said bers also provided important help. 300 Pendleton Way Vancouver, BC V5R 5WR Brian Grimes deserved most of the Seattle Oakland, CA 94621 (604) 254-7911 credit for organizing this year’s event. Puget Sound ILWU members (510) 562-3600 Popular attractions included the gathered at Vasa Park on Lake Sam- “BBQ Ship” and “ILWU Dunk-Tank” mamish. Pensioner San Huniu opened – both fabricated by skilled ILWU the event with a solomn ceremony members who donated their labor to castle, water slide, and different games to the volunteers who made our picnic honoring members who passed dur- the cause. designed for kids. Ali Vekich put such a huge success,” including Brice ing the previous year. together a 50/50 raffle with money going and Nicole Lenz, Svava Alumbaugh, Bingo was popular with older “We had yummy bbq with all the toward the Young Workers Committee. Charlie Wilbert, Randy Wilbur, Mark members and prizes included ILWU fixins’ and strawberry shortcake for Teresa Neufang gathered a bunch of Williams, Kainoa Mokiao, Kullen Fer- swag of various sorts. dessert,” said Local 19 member Sarah awesome raffle prizes for a drawing that nandez, Warren Fairbanks, April Benja- Another spectacular cake was cre- Esch, who coordinated again this year. benefitted the West Seattle Food Bank. min, Donald Vanison, James Bump, Joe ated this year, honoring the ILWU. It She thanked Robert Willis for bringing Both raffles were a huge hit. Cosette Hill Toro, Thomas Galloway, Tim Darby, was baked and decorated by Grimes’ his fancy corn roasting machine and worked super hard to provide awesome Tyrone Harvey, John Persak, Justin cousin, a professional cake-artist. Local 19 member, Mike Callanan, for shirts and swag that was sold at the Hirsch, and everyone else who helped Mary Beth Beem, the Local’s his- grilling-up some tasty oysters. picnic. Esch said the event was “well- load and unload the rental truck that torian and photographer, documented While some went swimming in the attended, with about 900 participants!” transported equipment and supplies to the event. Other contributors and vol- lake, younger ones used the bouncy She gave a “big super special shout-out the park.

TRANSITIONS

NEW PENSIONERS: Sementilli; Priscilla R. Aparicio; Sandra Local 4: Tammy Y. Pierce; L. Fellows; Local 75: Robert M. Local 7: Leroy W. Rohde; Local 8: Defanti; Local 94: Patrick J. Willis; Ronald A. Mccrory; Mark W. Streater; Eric G. Greenwood; Gilbert Cisneros, Local 10: Frank W. Jefferson III; Jr; Local 98: Daryl D. Olson; Eric L. Dwight B. Simmons; Stephen J. Hedlund; Donegan; Kendall D. Hadley; DECEASED PENSIONERS: James P. Walsh; James S. Curtis Jr.; Local 8: Clarence W. Grebe; Local 13: John Mardesich; Don W. Local 10: Raymond Richardson; Good; Frank G. Negrete; Armando A. Local 13: Raymond J. Morales; Ivan Z. Aguilar; Tonko Baran; Ivan Glumac; Glavan (Mary); Raymond S. Garcia; Miguel Ramos; Yasuo Deguchi; Debra Lionel Nolasco; Local 19: Albert R. L. Hilse; Gregorio C. Abalos; Timothy Reece, Jr.; Local 23: Gregory S. J. Shaughnessy; Maria S. Magana; Svendsen; Weldon F. Burgess; John F. Adams; Harold E. Brown; Dale Local 24: John M. Charboneau P. Wills; Guy A. Pugliese; Andrew M. (Jeannette); Local 25: Monte G. Riley; Mekaru; Raymond G. Islas; Local 29: John A. Ryan (Denise); Local 19: Mario A. Oblak; Timothy S. Local 34: Mark Gonzalez; Local 47: Russell; Brian D. Olsen; Edward C. George R. Catron; Local 52: Era Mae Camacho; Curtiss G. Treadwell; M. Wieand; Local 63: Louis T. Cukrov; Thomas E. Vaughn; Orville L. De Jeffrey H. Powell; Telitha I. Mc Gee; Rosia; James K. Renville; Local 92: Donald D. Lukins; Local 21: Kirk C. Rea; Local 23: Gary Local 94: Eugene Erickson; L. Munford; Lon E. Bergstrom; DECEASED SURVIVOR: Local 26: Tracy D. Pearce; Local 4: Nanna Adams; Local 34: Bruce P. Baxter; Local 8: Mary G. Barry; Local 10: Lila Local 40: Kevin J. Clark; Matthew L. Ward; Everal Kole; Edrena Pinkston; St Clair; Mark C. Hamlin; Willie Childs; Local 13: Maria Padilla; Local 46: Rudy Soto Jr; Reinalda Garcia; Mary L. Beers; Local 47: Keith E. Bausch; Charlene Hall; Virginia Y. Potts; Local 52: Gretchen A. Van Dyk; Local 32: Beulah J. Newman; William N. Day; Local 53: Barrett J. Local 34: Judith E. Maguire; Tower; Local 63: Carl A. Tietz; Laurie Local 63: Darlene C. Felando; S. Levinson; Kathleen A. Mackenzie; Local 94: Gloria Rohar; Thomas A. Norcio; Michael C.

8 DISPATCHER • July/August 2019