Toledo auto strike:. THE Latest strike news • • • • • . ... 2 Background to tight • • . . • • • • • • . . . . 8 Lessons of 1934 strikes . .. . . • • s-

A SOCIALIST NEWSWEEKLY PUBLISHED IN THE INTERESTS OF WORKING PEOPLE VOL. 48/NO. 21 JUNE 8, 1984 75 CENTS

Conden1n Ireland protests hit assassination of Vietnan1ese Reagan war policies in S.F. Nguyen Van Luy was critically wounded and his wife killed when they

. J~f.O were gunned down in front of their San Francisco home on the night of May 28 . .~ """'~:: :·{t - <~" Luy, a Vietnamese in his sixties who has 44 lived in the United States since World War ,.,~ . : ~ II, has been a public opponent of the U.S. ,. .., ~: '-····· war· against Vietnam and a supporter of the revolution in his homeland. According to the San Francisco Examiner, witnesses told police that a young Asian man fired four shots at Luy and his wife and then sped away with an accomplice in a waiting car. This political assassination must be an­ swered with immediate protests. A New York City rally in solidarity with Vietnam is scheduled for the Marc Ballroom, 30 E. 16th St. on the comer of Union Square West, at I p.m. on Saturday, June 2. EDITORIAL

Speaking at the rally will be Intercontinen­ tal Press editor Ste.ve Clark, a representa­ tive of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam Derek Speirs/Report Mission to the United Na~ions, and a repre­ More than 3,000 marched in Dublin, Ireland, May 26 to protest Reagan visi~ and U.S. war in Central America. · sentative of El Salvador's Farabundo Marti National Liberation Front. BY MARGARET JA YKO Unions, said, "we hope this will be a mas­ Also unpopular is the joint decision by All those opposed to the San Francisco DUBLIN - More than 3,000 people sive demonstration against President London and Washington to place cruise assassination should help assure the largest marched through the streets of this city on Reagan and his foreign policies." missiles, armed with nuclear warheads, in possible turnout at this rally as an im­ May 26 to protest Pres. Ronald Reagan's Reagan's visit has sparked a coun­ Britain. . mediate response to the May 28 events. visit to Ireland and the U.S. war in Central trywide discussion and debate here. The The future of Ireland - a nation di­ The murderous attack on Luy and his America. discussion centers on opposition to the vided , oppressed, and exploited by the wife is the latest in a series of terrorist ac­ Included among the marchers was Mel U.S. war on the peoples ofEI Salvador and British imperialists - has inevitably be­ tions against Vietnamese in this country. Mason, Socialist Workers Party c.andidate Nicaragua as well as Washington's back­ come a key part of the controversy around In 1981 Lam Trong Duong, an outspo­ for president of the United States . ing for repressive rulers around the world, ·Reagan's visit.· ken opponent of the U.S. war in Indochina, Protests will dog Reagan's every step from Pres. Ferdinand Marcos in the Philip­ The Irish government, while claiming to was assassinated in San Francisco. A right­ during his June I:-4 visit. Ben Kearney , pines to Prime Minister Pieter Botha who disagree with aspects of U.S. foreign pol­ wing terrorist group calling itself the Anti­ president of the Dublin Council of Trade heads the racist regime of South Africa. Continued on Page 6 Communist Viets Or.ganization ·took re­ sponsibility for that murder. No one was ever brought to justice. The Vietnamese educator Ngo Vi'nh Central America rally in N.Y. June 9 Long was nearly assassinated by right­ wing Vietnamese who firebombed his car at Harvard University. BY OLGA RODRIGUEZ women's organization; Women's lnterna­ mobilize people in all the areas of New All these attacks take place in the NEW YORK - A final push is on to get .tional League for Peace and Freedom; York where there are big concentrations of framework of the ongoing U.S. war against 9ut the word for the June 9 demonstration MADRE, a group in solidarity with Salvadorans," explained Bran. Vietnam. The U.S. government has main­ here against the U.S. war in Central Amer­ mothers of U.S. war victims in Central Among the many other organizations tained an economic and diplomatic block­ ica and the Caribbean. America; United Methodist Women; building the march are Black United Front; ade of Vietnam, encouraged military at­ The ptotest is organized by the Coalition United Church of Christ Women; and ac­ Caribbean· People's Alliance; Committee tacks on that country, and whipped up a vi­ Against U.S. Intervention in Central tivists from the Women's Peace Commit­ for a Free Grenada; Casa Nicaragua; Puerto cious propaganda barrage against the Viet­ America and the Caribbean, whose princi­ tee of the Coalition of Labor Union Rican Socialist Party; Antonio Maceo namese revolution. pal coordinators are representatives of the Women. Brigade; War · Resisters League; Com­ Washington routinely refuses visas to Committee in Solidarity With the People of The Salvadoran Solidarity Coordinating munist Party; Socialist Workers Party; and Vietnamese spokespeople and artists. The El Salvador (CISPES), Mobilization for Committee is building the march. Luis Democratic Socialists of America. U.S. State Department does not allow the Survival, and Clergy and Laity Concerned. Bran, an activist in the June 9 coalition and The demonstration will assemble at I I Vietnamese delegation to the United Na­ A broad range of Black and Latino groups, a member of Casa El Salvador, told the a.m. on Saturday, June 9, at Dag Ham­ tions to travel beyond 25 miles of the UN solidarity organizations, religious groups, Militant the protest is important as "an ex­ marskjold Plaza (47th Steet and First Av­ headquarters. · and left organizations is backing the action. pression of open opposition to the U.S. ad­ enue) and proceed to the Times Square Re­ U.S. officials have turned a blind eye to ministration's escalating intervention in the cruitment Center. For more information, violent attacks against public meetings The National Congress of Puerto Rican region. contact the coalition at (212) 242-I04Q or where Vietnamese representatives have Rights has sent out a bilingual leaflet urg­ "We are doing everything possible to (2I2) 673-I808. Continued on Page 12 ing Puerto Rican participation in the march to over 3,000 members and supporters. A Third World contingent is being organized. The Women's Coalition to Stop U.S. In­ U.S. escalates war against Iranian people tervention in Central America and the Caribbean has put out a leaflet to build a BY HARRY RING weapons, assertedly to train the Saudis to patched to refuel Saudi planes while aloft. women's contingent on the march. The MAY 30 __:Washington is engaged in a use them. The tankers are part of the U.S. Air same U.S. government attacking equal dangerous military intervention in the Per­ Meanwhile the Saudi government an­ Force and will be operated by Air Force rights at home, the leaflet explains, "also sian Gulf. Its aim is to deal a sharp blow to personnel. A State Department official dis­ attacks the hopes, aspirations, and concrete nounced it was undertaking to patrol virtu­ the Iranian revolution and to .stave off the ally the entire southern portion of the Per­ missed questions about the risk of the tank­ victories of women, workers, and op­ defeat of Iraq in its war against Iran. ers becoming involved in a. Saudi clash pressed people of other countries, espe­ sian Gulf to protect tankers and other ship­ The Reagan administration is prodding ping from alleged Iranian attack. with Iranian planes. There was, he as­ cially in Central America and the Carib­ Saudi Arabia and other Persian Gulf states serted, "little likelihood" of this happen­ bean." ·to take military action against Iran and is Tb_e northern part of the gulf is already ing . Mavie Chalkey, June 9 coordinator for providing the weapons to do it. . heavily patrolled by Iraq. Iraqi planes have Prior to dispatching the Stingers and re- · the women's coalition, said that among the Reagan announced May 29 ·that 400 repeatedly attacked ships in the area of fueling planes, the Reagan administration groups planning to participate in the Stinger missiles and 200 shoulder-held Khar~ Island, the Iranian oil terminal in the had informed the Saudi government that if women's contingent are CIS PES Women's missile launchers l;lad been sent to Saudi northeastern part of the gulf. it and other allied. governments in the gulf Committee; Women for Racial and Eco­ Arabia. In addition to the Stinger equipment, confronted Iran, the Pentagon would pro- nomic Equality; AMES, a Salvadoran Thirty U.S. "advisers" accompanied the jumbo U.S. aerial tankers have been dis- Continued on Page 4 -SELLING OUR PRESS AT THE PLANT GATE------BY MALIK MIAH largest union in this city. These sales laid the basis for a Acklin Stamping plant unit. these sales and because of our day­ TOLEDO--:- On May 25, this According to Mark Friedman, successful tour of SWP candidate Another 12 papers were sold to an to-day participation in workers' reporter participated in the after­ an auto worker and member of for vice-president, Andrea Gon­ International Association of battles and union politics. noon sale of the Militant at the UA W Local 12's Jeep Unit, the zalez, in early May. Gonzalez vis­ Machinists union meeting with 40 Socialists at Jeep and other Jeep plant gate here. Six Toledo SWP branch has for sev­ ited the AP Parts picket line and workers present. UAW-organized plants, for exam­ socialists, including four who eral years regularly sold to UA W expressed her support for the Sales will be all the more suc­ ple, report that since the May 21 work the first shift at Jeep, were workers at plant gates, union strike in two TV interviews. cessful if the Militant has had a solidarity demonstration there is able to sell 59 Mi./itants in less meetings, and on the job. Since The regular presence of the Mil­ regular presence at the plant gates more eagerness to discuss union than 30 minutes. The paper's January, he added, socialists in the itant is why it is a widely recog­ all along. strategy and tactics and general headline was on the major battle city have sold 419 papers at plant nized paper today. For example, This highlights a second impor­ politics with SWP members, here between the United Auto gates. Of these, 230 have been to after the May 21 militant action, tant reason for organizing weekly Another lesson is the impor­ Workers and the union-busting AP Jeep workers. Jeep is the largest several other left groups from plant-gate sales. They are first and tance of organizing the sales Parts Co. auto plant here, with nearly 6,000 nearby cities came to town to dis­ foremost a way for revolutionists through the SWP branch. AI­ Most of the workers that the union members. tribute their newspapers, mainly to present our ideas on a weekly . though most socialists in Toledo sales team talked to had either Friedman explained that for free. While workers took basis to industrial workers. The · work in UAW-organized shops, been at the 3,000-plus May 21 another 118 papers have been sold them, the warmest response was Militant is the central way in those who don't are also organized militant solidarity demonstration inside the plant to cowor!<:ers. saved for the Militant salespeople which socialists take our program on plant-gate sales teams. This in­ at AP Parts or firmly supported the ~ecause the UA W is the who have regularly sold outside to auto, steel, garment, and other creases the paper's presence at strikers. Several workers had been strongest union in the city, most the plants. industrial workers. The paper is a more plant gates and helps to beaten by cops there and two faced plant-gate sales are at UAW-or­ The Toledo experience indi­ way we help broaden the political generalize the plant-gate experi­ trumped-up charges for defending ganized factories. Friedman noted cates a few lessons about the value outlook of workers about national ences for all members of the themselves from the vicious police that 52 Militants had been sold to and importance of regular plant­ and international politics. branch - auto workers and , attack. AP Parts workers this year before gate sales. The plant-gate sales - as the others. The success of the sale at Jeep they went on strike May 2. Work­ One is that wheri a big labor bat­ experiences in Toledo are showing It is clear from what's already was not accidental. It wasn't sim­ ers at General Motors Hydrauma­ tle does arise, the potential to sell a - are essential to building a been accomplished here that the ply because the front page focused tic plant have bought 39 papers. greater number of papers than Marxist current in the industrial regular plant-gate sales are in­ on this labor battle in Toledo. It re­ Workers there are members of usual is enhanced. unions - one based on militant creasing the SWP's knowledge of flected the Militant's longterm im­ UA W Local 14, an amalgamated Joe Callahan, a Jeep worker, class-struggle methods and a revo­ the auto industry and its most im­ pact on workers here, especially· local that also organizes the strik­ sold II papers to workers attend­ lutionary program. Socialist work­ portant component, the unionized on members of the U AW, the ing workers at AP Parts. ing a meeting of U AW Local 12' s ers are better known because of workers. Fight to save UAW at AP Parts continues in Toledo BY JOE CALLAHAN But on May 29, AP Parts UAW Chair­ union executive committee sent out a letter Sisters of the AP Parts Unit of Local 14." TOLEDO - Police here blocked off the man DickThompson said, "They [the com­ inviting workers to attend a June 3 rally National news coverage of the May 21 road to the AP Parts company May 22, fol­ pany] just don't wailt to negotiate. They commemorating the historic 1934 Auto­ demonstration has helped spark solidarity lowing a militant demonstration against just don't want to bargain in good faith ." Lite strike. The letter said "It seems as and interest from UA W members in other union-busting the night before by 3,000 This is despite the fact that the union though the old adage that, .'History repeats cities. The UA W local at a Ford plant in auto workeJ;"s. The May 21 protest was or­ leadership is offering big concessions. Ac­ itself,' rings true; for almost fifty years to Cleveland requested 2,000 buttons sup­ ganized to back striking workers at AP cording to the Toledo Blade, the latest the day, we are back fighting the same porting the AP Parts workers. Parts. When cops brutally attacked the offer by the union includes a $2 an hour fight with AP Parts ... . demonstrators, the unionists stood their "In spite of the late notification, this On June 4, preliminary hearings begin wage cut; elimination of supplemental un- · for the 41 workers arrested at the MiiY 21 ground, and a six-hour battle ensued. employment benefits; and giving up eight Jeep Unit was well represented [at the May Workers who tried to return to the struck 21 demonstration] and should be proud. A demonstration. Unionists face felony cost-of-living adjustments, one week's va­ charges, including "aggravated rioting," plant the night after the demonstration were cation pay, and three holidays. good time was had by all who attended the unable to because of the police blockade. rally, and we Caple away secure in · the which carries a minimum sentence of one , Cops also arrested an AP Parts striker May ·on May 30, the negotiations completely knowledge that this Union is a force to be year. 22. collapsed. The company refused to even recko'ned with and we are willing to take The strike at the plant involves a bitter discuss the union's proposals. whatever steps necessary to protect the Joe Callahan is a member of UA W Local fight· to save the AP Parts unit of Local 14 At Jeep, the largest plant in Toledo, the rights of our fellow Union Brothers and 12, Jeep unit. of the United Auto'Workers (UAW). · Last March 5, AP Parts unilaterally im­ posed its final contract offer on the U AW. This included an immediate $5 .84 an hour Unions tnark '34 Auto-Lite strike anniversary cut in wages and benefits. After working under slave-like condi­ BY TOMMYE WEISE Workers (OCAW) Local7-912 at Sun Oil. B director; Ron Rinna, president of OCAW tions for eight weeks, the union walked out TOLEDO -The 50th anniversary of The applicability of many of the tactics Local 7-912; and Dick Thompson, chair­ May 2. Every attempt by the union leader-· the 1934 Toledo Auto-Lite strike, arriving developed during the struggles of the '30s man of the AP Parts Unit of UA W Local ship to negotiate a contract has been re­ as it has in the middle of this city's current was apparent to everyone. Some ofJhose 14. jected by the company. AP Parts' line is, labor struggle, has been an occasion for ideas have already been carried out here, Also planned for this week is a 50th an­ "on our terms or not at all." much debate and discussion. such as the mass defiance of court injunc­ niversary rally outside the Lucas County On Thursday, May 24, scabs were back Unionists have heard it said for years tions limiting strike picketing. Courthouse June 3 at 2 p.m. This was the site of a rally held June I, 1934, which working in the plant, after one day missed that "what we need is a return to the tactics This is particularly relevant for the fu­ because of the May 21 demoqstration and of the '30s." Feature articles in the daily ture of the current fights in Toledo. Then, drew 50,000 people in support of the Auto­ another day missed due to a power failure. Toledo Blade and the Toledo Union Jour­ as now, the companies used the courts to Lite strike. The meeting is sponsored by Also on May 24, the company went to nal, weekly newspaper of United Auto their advantage - to limit picketing, to the Toledo Area Solidarity Committee and court to tighten the antipicketing injunc­ Workers (UA W) Local 12, have sparked protect strikebreakers, and to victimize endorsed by several unions. tion. Typically, the court quickly com­ widespread discussion on exactly what militant unionists. Resolutions and telegrams of support for plied, cutting the number of pickets al­ those tactics were. striking AP Parts workers can be sent to: lowed per gate from six to four. More than 100 unionists attended apro­ The legal defense of the 41 U AW mem­ UAW Local 14, 5411 Jackman Rd., To- Meanwhile, Toledo Mayor Donna gram here on May 29 celebrating the Auto­ bers arrested at the May 21 solidarity dem­ ledo, Ohio 43613. - Owens appointed a five-member panel, Lite victory. It was sponsored by the AFL­ onstration promises to involve the UAW in consisting of three corporate figures and CIO and the UAW. The audience was another long and extensive court battle. Tommye Weise is a striking Sun Oil worker two union officials, to oversee the start of about half UA W members and half striking The evening's program included re­ and a member of Oil, Chemical and Atomic new negotiations. members of Oil, Chemical and Atomic marks by Joseph Tomasi, UA W Region 2- Workers Local7-912. SPECIAL OFFER TO MILITANT SUBSCRIBERS The Militant "Maurice Bishop Speaks" Closing news date: May 30, 1984 This collection of interviews with and speeches by the slain prime minister of Grenada Editors: CINDY JAQUITH DOUG JENNESS also includes an introduction explaining the events that led to the overthrow of the Business Manager: revolution, Bishop's assassination, and the invasion by U.S. troops. LEE MARTINDALE We are offering the book to subscribers for a special price of $4 (a $2.95 discount!). Editorial Staff: Connie Allen , William Gottlieb, Arthur You can also participate in getting this important book out to others by ordering a Hughes, Margaret Jayko, Malik Miah, Geoff bundle of 3 or more copies for $3.50 each. Mirelowitz, Mohammed Oliver, Harry Ring, Larry Seigle, Mary-Alice Waters. ------~ ------Published weekly except two weeks in August, the last Please 0 begin 0 renew 0 extend my subscription: week of December, and the first week of January by the 0 3 monthsl$6 0 I am enclosing an additional $4.00 Militant (ISSN 0026-3885), 14 Charles Lane, New 0 6monthsl$15 for a copy of Maurice Bishop Speaks York, N.Y. 10014. Telephone: Editorial Office, (212) one year/$24 243-6392; Business Office, (212) 929-3486. 0 Correspondence concerning subscriptions or changes of address should be addressed to The Mili­ Name------~---- tant Business Office, 14 Charles Lane, New York, Address ______N.Y. 10014. Second-class postage paid at New York, N.Y. POST­ City/State/Zip ______MASTER: Send address changes to The Militant, 14 Charles Lane, New York , N.Y. 10014. Subscriptions: Telephone Union/Organization------U.S. $24.00 a year, outside U.S. $30.00. By first-class 0 Enclosed is $ __ for a bundle of __ copies of the book. at $3.50 each to mail : U.S. , Canada, and Mexico: $60.00. Write for air­ mail rates to all other countries. sell to friends and coworkers (minimum of 3 copies). Signed articles by contributors do not necessarily rep­ 0 Enclosed is $3 for a 12 week introductory subscription (book offer not available). resent the Militant's views. These are expressed in edito­ rials. Mail to: Militan~ 14 Charles Ln., New York, N.Y. 10014.

2 The Militant June 8, 1984 Black trade unionists hold Bishop book reception

BY MOHAMMED OLIVER Caribbean island. Washington still main­ would be a good way 'to introduce conven­ CINCINNATI - "Bishop is one of my tains its occupation of the predominantly tion delegates tg the book. heroes- like Malcolm X," James Webb Black, English-speaking country. The appeal of such an event was shown told a group of Black trade unionists here. One of the reasons the U.S. government immediately. When William Lucy, presi­ "He's an inspiration to Black people every­ feared the Grenadian revolution was its ap­ dent of the CBTU and international secre­ where." peal to U.S. workers- especially Blacks. tary-treasurer of AFSCME, was invited to Webb is the vice-president of the New Bishop himself explained this fact in a attend, he suggested the reception be an­ York chapter of the Coalition of Black speech he gave to a mostly Black audie.nce nounced from the podium- which it was. Trade Unionists (CBTU) and is on the ex­ of 2,500 at Hunter College in New York jn In addition, leaflets announcing the re­ ecutive board of American Federation of June 1983. ception were placed in the hopitality suites State, County and Municipal Employees Webb was there, and Bishop's speech of the New York caucus, which numbered Grenadian leader Maurice Bishop. His (AFSCME) Local420. He was speaking at deeply moved him. Webb and James But­ some 300 people out of the more than 650 1983 visit to United States had big im­ . a May 27 reception celebrating the publica­ Ler, Local 420's president, traveled with delegates, and on CBTU registration ta­ pact on Black trade unionists. tion of Maurice Bishop Speaks. Webb was Bishop to Detroit and were able to discuss bles. one of the hosts for the reception, which the gains of the Grenada revolution with Some 60 people attended the reception, took place during the 13th annual conven­ him. Webb talked about this experience including three members of the CBTU's unionists in the United States. One aspect tion of the CBTU held here May 25-28. with the CBTU delegates who attended the national executive council: Oliver of this discussion was thinking through the Also sponsoring the event were Robert . reception. Montgomery of the United Steelworkers of need for workers and farmers to take polit­ Clark, vice-president of United Electrical Another Black trade unionist affected by America, Charles Drew of the Interna­ ical power here, as they did in Grenada, Workers (IUE) Local 1111 in Milwaukee; Bishop's Hunter College speech was tional Association of Machinists, and Willie and whether Jesse Jackson's campaign for the Cincinnati Free Grenada Committee; Robert Clark from UE. Clark wasn't at Bell of the International Union of Elec­ the Democratic Party's presidential nomi­ and Pathfinder Press, which published Hunter, but he read the talk later and liked tronic Workers. The slide-show presenta­ nation is a step in that direction. Maurice Bishop Speaks. it, he told the Militant. tion by members of the Free Grenada Com­ Several members of the All-African Bishop, the central leader of the Grenada Solidarity with the Grenada revolution mittee was shown twice, as different People's Revolutionary Party learned of revolution, was murdered in a coup last led Webb, Clark, and other CBTU dele­ people came into the hotel suite during the the reception at a Cincinnati African Liber­ October along with other leaders of Gre­ gates here · to promote Maurice Bishop three-hour affair. ation Day celebration and decided to come. nada's People's Revolutionary Govern­ Speaks at the CBTU convention. They got There was a wide-ranging discussion on They participated in a long discussion on ment (PRG). Following the PRG's over­ together Friday night, May 25, and decided the accomplishments of the Grenada revo­ the lessons to be learned from the over­ throw, the U.S. government invaded the a reception and slide show about Grenada lution and its meaning for Blacks and throw of the Grenada revolution regarding how to build a Marxist party and how to maintain the rule of working people once it is achieved. . Soldiers' fatnilies .meet with Sandinistas Cincinnati's Free Grenada Committee has made as its central campaign the distri­ BY MICHAEL BAUMANN not to see how the cdnsequences of the war such an · irresponsible abuse. . . . .The bution of information about the achieve­ MANAGUA, Nicaragua - Mother's are affecting the cities," says Managua youngsters had good training, lots of target ments and overthrow of the Grenada revo­ Day, celebrated here May 30, is dedicated bricklayer Manuel Angel Ruiz. practice and, within the limits of our pos­ lution. Committee activists have reprinted this year to the mothers who have children Among those deeply affected by escala­ sibilities, good officers." the interviews with Don Rojas, Bishop's fighting in the Sandinista army. tion of the war are parents of the draftees. Most draftees now have permanent as­ press secretary, and George Louison, In addition to receiving presents them­ Conscription, called Patriotic Military Ser­ signments to units, he said, and contact former minister of agriculture in the PRG, selves, Nicaraguan mothers are collecting vice here, was instituted for the first time with them by mail can be arranged. Special that appeared in the news magazine Inter­ cigarettes, matches, candy, and food to last October. And after three months . of post office boJ.(es have been set up for each continental Press. Committee activists send to their youngsters in the mountains. basic military training, the first contingents zone of combat. sold seven copies of Maurice Bishop AMNLAE, the Association of Nicara­ of draftees are now fighting in the moun­ Small packages of food and clothing can Speaks at the African Liberation Day guan Women, is spearheading the drive. tains. also be sent, but the emphasis is on neigh­ events and brought several demonstrators The Sandinista Defense Committees Parents' normal concern about their sons borhoods taking up a collection for entire with them to the reception. (CDS), Sandinista Youth, the teachers has been a prime target of counterrevolu­ units. "That way no one gets left out and Sales of Maurice Bishop Speaks at the union, and the health workers' union are tionary propaganda. For weeks the coun­ the whole community can participate," reception were brisk also. Sixteen copies pitching in. terrevolutionary stations Radio lmpacto in Commander Dora Marfa Tellez pointed were sold - all that were there . In addi­ Nicaraguans want the young draftees Costa Rica (see box) and Radio 15 de Sep­ out. tion, several copies of Intercontinental and their families to know that the entire tiembre in Honduras have been broadcast­ The government is doing the best it can, Press with the Rojas and Louison inter­ country is behind them as they fight to tum ing phony battle reports of huge casualties within the material limits it faces, Com­ views were sold. Some of the union leaders back the biggest U.S. offensive since among "poorly trained" draftees. These mander Ortega assured the parents. "But in attendance indicated an interest in help­ 1979. faked reports then become the grist for military serVice in a country like ours - ing to build promotional events for On the state farms, leaders of the Rural bolas - rumors that circulate rapidly impoverished and under imperialist attack Maurice Bishop Sp{!aks in their local areas. Workers Association (A TC) are organizing through the markets and streets. -just isn't the same as military service in meetings with family members of draftees. In this case, the rumors received an im­ a rich country that is at peace." They make sure parents have the latest petus from the difficulty parents have had Atlanta celebration of news from the front and aren't suffering fi­ in communicating with their drafted sons. One thing is for sure, Ortega said, issu­ ing a warning to the right-wing political nancially from a son being sent to the front. Mail service between isolated military 'Maurice Bishop Speaks' parties, reactionary church officials, and a · In the cities, the Sandinista Workers zones and the cities hasn't kept pace with Pathfinder Press is sponsoring a celebra­ Federation (CST) is concentrating on help­ the mobilization of Sandinista troops. journalist - Luis Mora Sanchez - who tion in Atlanta, Georgia, of its new book, ing union families obtain news from sons As one mother told junta leaders Daniel works for both the reactionary daily La Prensa and the counterrevolutionary Radio Maurice Bishop Speaks. Speakers will in­ in the army. In a pinch, they are helping Ortega and Sergio Ramirez at a public lmpacto: clude Jerome Sadiki McBarnette, a Grena­ out families that have become financially meeting April 12: "All the mothers in my "The organized people are not going to dian student at the University of Georgia in strapped. barrio are worried because their sons were In Managua alone, the army and San­ mobilized February 15 and we haven't allow a public campaign to be carried out Athens, and a slide show presentation. against Patriotic Military Service.· Those dinista National Liberation Front (FSLN) heard anything from them since. No let­ The rally will take place Saturday, June who are conducting this campaign are be­ 9, at 5 p.m., at 1095 Confederate Avenue. have organized more than 40 meetings with ters. Nothing." traying the people and the homeland." For more information call (404) 577-4065 . the parents of draftees. Many, like these mothers from eastern Meanwhile, factories are working over­ Managua, haye had no news since their time to tum out the uniforms, boots, can­ sons finished basic training. One-week Celebrate publication of vas, medicine, and other items still in short leaves, originally scheduled for the end of I supply but essential to equipping the grow­ training, had to be cancelled because of the ing Sandinista army. offensive. "Maurice Bishop Speaks" Many other goods _.::... such as soap and A few mothers, victims of counterrevo­ cooking oil - are becoming scarce in lutionary propaganda, took part in an anti­ Sunday, June 1.7 urban areas. First priority goes to units in draft demonstration in Managua in early 4 p.m. reception, 5:30p.m. program the field and to the civilian J)opulation in April. The small demonstration was Medgar Evers College Gymnasium the war zones. covered extensively on the counterrevolu­ "You'd have to be blind or be a Martian tionary radio stations. 1150 Carroll St., Brooklyn, N.Y. To get out the truth about the military Speakers: situation - there are casualties, but the contras (counterrevolutionaries) are being JOACHIM MARK ADEYEMI BANDELE hit hard - the government, army, and noted Grenadian historian National vice-chairperson for mass organizations began to organize pub­ international affairs lic meetings. SAFIY A BAN DELE National Black United Front "It's true that back in December the new director of Medgar Evers College STEVE CLARK Center of Women's Development recruits were promised leaves when they editor of "Intercontinental Press" finished basic training," Lt.-Commander author of introduction to Jose Antonio Sanjinez, army cbief of per­ MFANAFUTHI MAKATINI "Maurice Bishop Speaks" sonnel, told the parents April 12. director, international affairs "But no one could foresee the situation African National Congress, ELOMBE BRA TH we were going to have three months later South Africa Patrice Lumumba Coalition - the biggest imperialist aggression we have yet suffered." Sponsored by: Pathfinder Press, Medgar Evers College Center of Women's It would indeed have been a grave error, Development, N.Y.C. Black United Front, Patrice Lumumba Coalition. if, as the counterrevolutionaries Claim, the Nicaraguan government had sent raw Medgar Evers College via subway: #3 Train to President St; #4 (Fiatbush) Train to troops in to fight, he continued. "·But no President; or #2 Train to Nostrand Ave. · Daniel Ortega family need have the slightest worry about

June 8, 1984 The Mllitant 3 ~ 100 attend Black party forum in Harlem

BY PAT WRIGHT way forward for the whole labor move­ sumer Party, Wisconsin Labor and Fai:m oppression of Blacks. If you try to reform NEW YORK- Over 100 people came ment. Party, and the California Peace and Free­ the Democratic Party, Mason said, "the dom Party - as the vehicle through which only thing that gets transformed is you, to commemorate the birthday of Malcolm Mason recommended that every Black Blacks should organize. These parties re­ when you have to· change your views to X at a meeting here in Harlem hosted by person who is interested in ridding this so­ ject NBIPP's perspective of organizing and accommodate the Democratic Party's the Manhattan chapter of the National ciety of racism and capitalist exploitation mobilizing Blacks against the capitalist game." Black Independent Political Party should join NBIPP and build it into the (NBIPP). The program included a panel system. Mason explained that those "who don't fighting organization its charter set it out to discussion on the 1984 elections, featuring bend to the pressure of supporting the be. Black presidential candidates and their rep­ During the discussion period, one per­ capitalist parties today" will win the re­ resentatives. Serrette disagreed. "I wish I had faith in son said Blacks should support Jackson be­ spect of serious fighters as they begin to · By the end of the evening, 12 people had NBIPP and where it is going, but we can't cause his campaign "goes beyond" the seek an independent road to freedom. asked to join the NBIPP chapter, and 9 had wait, we must begin organizing this very Democratic and Republican parties. Mason That's why it's important to build the purchased copies of NBIPP's programma­ moment," he argued. Rather than a per­ responded that this was exactly the prob­ NBIPP now, and why it's effective for tic charter. spective of building NBIPP, Serrette lem- it doesn't. Jackson's perspective is Blacks and other workers to run as inde­ The program opened with a film show­ pointed to what he called an alliance of five limited to the reforms within a racist, anti­ pendents on working-class programs to ad­ ing of "Malcolm X: Struggle for Free­ "independent" parties - New Alliance labor party structure. Jackson supports the vance the struggle against racism and dom," in which Malcolm explains the need Party, Vermont Liberty Union Party, Con- capitalist system, which is the root of the capitalism. for Black people to organize independent of the Democratic and Republican parties. The panel on the presidential elections included Dennis Rahiim Watson, a sup­ parter of Jesse Jackson's campaign for the U.S. escalates war against Iran Democratic presidential nomination; Den­ nis Serrette, an executive board member of Continued from front page nial governments fear and hate its .revolu­ In preparation for the upcoming Muslim New York's New Alliance Party and that vide air and sea escorts for ships entering tion. They are sitting on social powder pilgrimage to Mecca, the Saudi govern­ party's candidate for president; and Mel the gulf. kegs that threaten their wealth and ment has issued a warning to all govern­ Mason, Socialist Workers Party candidate The pretext for sending the Stingers and privilege. They recognize the Iranian revo­ ments in the region . According to a radio for president. aerial tankers was the alleged need to fend . lution could be the spark to detonate those broadcast, it declared "pilgrims should be Watson, an actor who has performed to off threatened Iranian attack on Saudi oil­ kegs. mobilized only for the rites of the pilgrim­ raise funds for the Jackson campaign, told fields . · From the outset; the Iraqi regime of Sad­ age and should remove from their minds all the audience that "Ninety-five percent of But a ranking administration official dam Hussein has been deeply hostile to the slogans and political matters . ... ;, Black people agree that Jesse is waking us then conceded an "absence" of evidence Iranian revolution. The Saudi warning added: "The compe­ In --1978 Hussein expelled Ayatollah up, and that he may be an example of what that Iran intended to make such an attack. tent custom authorities will not allow the Khomeini from Iraq, where he was living is to come." Acknowledging that Jackson Another shameless hoax is the claim that entry of printed matter, leaflets, or photo­ in exile. has "flip-flopped" on political issues, such the buildup of Saudi forces is necessary to graphs that will be exploited for political With the victory of the revolution, Hus­ as the Mideast, Watson said that the job of deal with Iranian attacks on shipping in tjle propaganda or tendentious slogans." sein directed a series of border provoca­ militant Blacks is to keep pushing Jackson gulf. Clearly, not a very secure government. to represent the sentiments of the Black tions against Iran. This same nervousness is evidenced in Iran has been accused of firing on four community. Out of his campaign, Watson Then in 1980, the Iraqi regime launched Saudi efforts to avoid the curse of being such ships. Meanwhile, over the past 'three suggested, a genuinely independent move­ its massive invasion of Iran with the aim of publicly recognized as a creature of Wash­ years, Iraq has bombed and strafed nearly ment could emerge. overthrowing the Khomeini government ington's drive against Iran. 70 ships. Serrette, former vice-president of the and helping to roll back the anti-imperialist Recently, the State . Department dis­ Yet Washington, the Saudi government, Communications .Workers of America revolution. ,. closed that Saudi planes had scrambled in and its gulf allies, refuse to condemn Iraq Local1101 here, urged people to "grab the pursuit of an Iranian plane that had asser­ and resolutely insist on condemning Iran. momentum generated by the Jackson cam­ Generous aid tedly attacked a ship in the gulf. The Saudi . paign, and not allow it to be channeled into Responding to the demagogic charges of In this war, with its enormous human government was reportedly so upset by this the Democratic Party." an Iranian "threat" to the gulf states, the and economic toll, Iraq has enjoyed the disclosure that it issued an official denial Serrette called for building "alliances, president of Iran, Ali Khamene' i, declared backing of the other gulf regimes, which even though many people had witnessed coalitions, and a united front to build a May 11 , "Our revolution and the Islamic have contributed $35 billion to its war the takeoff. party." He didn't c;:xplain what issues such Republic are not a threat to any Muslim chest. Washington is leaning hard on the gulf alliances would focus on, or the kind of and neighboring country: But the Islamic In addition, other Arab governments, in­ governments to take the forward position in program a united party should have. "I Republic is a threat for the United States, cluding those of Egypt, Jordan, Sudan, and the anti-Iran operation. They want these can't tell you the answers," he said, "you our longtime enemy. The Islamic Republic North Yemen have provided troops to Iraq. governments to publicly request 'the arms must use your imagination in terms of what will continue its struggle against all the ar­ The governments of Syria and Libya, they get, to offer use of their bases, and ·you should do in your area." As an exam­ rogant powers, especially the United however, have opposed the gangup against request open U.S. intervention. ple, he said his party is trying to build alter­ States." Iran. native medical and school facilities for the The Iraqi invasion also helped bring Bipartisan support · Black community. Role of Britain, France about a switch in Washington's attitude to­ Reagan's military intervention in the While Washington presses gulf regimes ward the Hussein regime. Earlier it had in­ Mason, former city councilman in Sea­ gulf is agreed to by the Democrats, who to get more actively involved. in the war cluded Iraq in a list of "terrorist" govern­ side, California, is a founding leader and - fully share the anti-Iran perspective of the ments because it had the audacity to longtime activist in the NBIPP, having against Iran, it is also trying to get the Brit­ White House. criticize U.S. backing to an anti-Arab Is­ served as NBIPP Far West Regional coor­ ish and French governments to join more After a secret briefing by Secretary of raeli regime. dinator. He focused his remarks on work­ directly in the gangup. State Shultz, Democratic House Speaker In the initial stage of the Iraqi invasion, ing-class independent political action and Thomas 0 'Neill had but a single caution­ London has military personnel in five of Washington claimed to be neutral. Now the importance of building NBIPP. that Washington should get more involved the gulf states- Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, that pretense has been totally dropped. Mason noted that the Socialist Workers in the war only in concert with the British the United Arab Emirates, and Kuwait. Washington supplies the Saudis and campaign has denounced racist attacks on and French. French troops are stationed in Djibouti, on other gulf regimes. They in tum supply other Blacks running for office, such as Meanwhile, Washington's imperialist the Red Sea. Iraq. Substantial U.S. economic aid is now Jesse Jackson, and declared it would con­ partner in Tel Aviv takes a dim view of also going to Iraq. tinue to do so. supplying arms to the Saudi regime or Historic links The fear of the Iranian revolution among He called the formation of NBIPP an other Arab nations. In the Israeli regime's those who benefit from the status quo ex­ historic step forward for Black people. It While Iran is not an Arab country, it is view, no matter how subservient to im­ tends beyond the Persian Gulf. represents a political break with the Demo­ historically linked to the Arab east. Like perialism these Arab governments may be, In Lebanon, diverse political forces, in­ cratic and Republican · parties, he the peoples of the Arab oil-producing na­ any added military strength could be a po­ cluding the right-wing Christian Phalan­ explained, and sets an example for -the tions, the Iranians have long been the vic­ tential obstacle to the Israeli policy of gists, conservative Muslim politicians, and working class as a whole. tims of imperialist.oppression and of fierce steady territorial aggrandizement. those Muslim and Druse forces closely NBIPP is different from most other repression by regimes beholden to im­ Whatever tactical disagreements exist, aligned with the Syrian government have Black organizations because it has drawn perialism: the Israeli and U.S. governments share a been trying to put together a coalition gov­ on the lessons of the civil rights move­ The revolution of 1979 overthrowing the long-standing determination to get at the ernment. The aim is to establish social ments of the 1960s, he said. As the NBIPP shah dealt a powerful blow to U.S. im­ Iranian revolution by any means necessary. "stability" in Lebanon. charter points out, "Both major parties (the perialist domination of Iran. It is this determination that makes the But the Lebanese Muslim majority - Democratic and Republican parties) tiave In addition to the billions in oil profits, present moves to sharpen the gulf confron­ particularly Shi'ite workers and peasants betrayed us because their interests essen­ Iran was of strategic military importance to tation a dangerous opening for direct im­ - continues to resist Phalangist terror and tially conflict with ours." Washington. It is situated in a commanding perialist military involvement. Israeli occupation forces . Many Shi'ites Mason pointed out that "most cities position at the mouth of the Persian Gulf, At the outset of the Iraqi invasion, it identify with the Iranian revolution. Recent where rebellions took place in the 1960s whose oil traffic is vital. . seemed like the invaders would be able to reports indicate increasing Shi 'ite guerrilla have since gotten Black mayors elected. And, prior to the revolution, U.S. forces deal the Iranian revolution a deadly blow. efforts to force the Israeli occupiers out of Yet the condition of Black people has not utilized Iran as an important link in its mil­ But they failed to reckon with the mass southern Lebanon. improved." itary encirclement of the Soviet Union. It of the Iranian people. One diplomat there told a U.S. reporter The Socialist Workers Party, Mason was a prime "listening post" for military It was the Iranian workers and peasants that if the Israelis continue their · occupa­ explained, believes that the problems of ra­ spying on the neighboring Soviet govern­ who faced the firepower of the shah's dic­ tion, "they are going to help create a Kho­ cism, war, sex discrimination, and attacks ment. tatorship and overcame it. meini movement on their own border." on unions are all interrelated. They stem The success of the Iranian revolution in They are the ones who are pressing the from the fact that this country is run by a ending the murderous rule of the U.S.-im­ present Iranian government to implement a Saudi monarchy tiny class of capitalists. Changing the faces posed shah, and breaking the direct grip of social program corresponding to the needs of those in power will not change which Washington and Wall Street on the coun­ Meanwhile, in Saudi Arabia, the monar­ of the workers, peasants, and oppressed class is in power. The SWP says the cur­ try, had a powerful impact on working chy· is concerned with the potential there nationalities. · rent government must be replaced by a people throughout the Mideast and Islamic for an Iran-like social explosion. The And they are the ones who press foran workers and farmers government. As a world . majority of the population in Saudi Arabia effective prosecution of the war. · major step toward fighting for such a gov­ Iran is majority Shi'ite Muslim. The is immigrant workers from other nations. Volunteering by the hundreds of ernment, the labor movement needs ·to 1979 revolution particularly inspired other Three years ago, the government thousands, they have fought doggedly and break from the Democratic and Republican Shi'ite workers and peasants - who are launched a swift crackdown against the po­ have driven the Iraqi occupiers out of most parties and build an independent labor among the most impoverished in the litical activity ofShi'ite Muslim workers in of their country . party. NBIPP, by calling on Blacks to Mideast. an important oil refining area of the coun­ It is that mass of fighting Iranian people build an independent party, has pointed the This is why Iran's neighboring neocolo- try. that Washington fears and is targeting.

4 The Militant June 8, 1984 China escalates ·attack on Vietnam border BY HARRY RING and the shelling of Ha Giang began from in an attempt to curry favor with and win UNITED NATIONS, N.Y.-The Viet­ inside Vietnam. Hundreds of mortar shells trade agreements and economic aid from namese government reports that on May 22 were fired into the city, which has a popu­ Washington. Chinese forces shelled the Vietnamese city lation of more than 25,000. For its part, Washington has maintained of Ha Giang, causing a yet to be deter­ In addition to the dead and wounded, its stubborn determination to roll back the mined number of casualties. many homes were destroyed and factories Vietnamese revolution. The defeat it suf­ Vietnam's ambassador to the United Na­ damaged in the city. fered in its merciless war against Vietnam tions, Hoang Bich Son, described the at­ Ambassador Son estimated that 20,000 in no way modified that determination. tack as an extremely grave" escaiation of Chinese troops were now inside Vietnam­ In 1979, with backing from the Carter China's border aggression against Viet­ ese territory. Additional troops are administration, 600,000 Chinese troops in­ nam. mobilized on the Chinese side of the bor­ vaded Vietnam. They were finally driven In a press briefing May 24, the ambas­ der, he noted, and these are on combat out, but at a heavy human and economiC sador said China had provoked a number of alert. toll for beleaguered Vietnam. border conflicts in April, "but it escalated Vietnamese forces have repulsed some As justification for its most recent border when President Reagan visited China" at · of the border forays and fighting continues aggression, Peking has offered the crude · the end of that month. in the border area. pretext that it is seeking to regain "lost" Chinese forces, he said, have occupied For a number of years China's ruling bu­ border territory. Ambassador Hoang Rich Son six hills on Vietnam's side of the border reaucracy has launched attacks on Vietnam Commenting on this, Ambassador Son wryly observed that the common border between Vietnam and China was clearly delineated exactly 900 years ago, in 1084. How Vietnam's drug rehabilitation works . That agreement was maintained, he added, until the end of the 19th century, when the French, who already occupied BY DIANE WANG Vietnam, offered China some of Vietnam's HO CHI MINH CITY - The main border area in return for trade concessions. building looked like a church, with a big On this basis, areas on the Chinese side cross outside, but inside there was a large of the border are part of Vietnam, not vice map of Vietnam in place of an altar. Across versa, Son observed. the lawn, someone was playing "Storiny Responding to the present attack on Ha Weather" on a jazz saxaphone. Giang, Vietnam's ministry of foreign af­ This was the School for New Youth, a fairs issued a s~atement in Hanoi May 23 drug rehabilitation center, housed in a vac- which declared, "These cruel shellings on civilians have laid bare the Chinese au­ A rally in solidarity with Vietnam will be thorities' deceptive contentions about held Saturday, June 2, at 1 p.m. in New peace." York City (see ad beltJW). A representa­ It said the Vietnamese government "se-· tive of Vietnam will speak, along with verely condemns and denounces the crimes Intercontinental Press editor Steve committed by the Chinese authorities" and Clark, who recently traveled to Vietnam resolutely demands a halt to them. and Kampuchea. There will be special In his press briefing, Ambassador Son greetings from El Salvador's Farabundo added that the Vietnamese government Marti National Liberation Front. wants friendly relations with all the nations of Asia, including China. ated missionary center. The school opened Responding to a question about talks be­ only six months after the April 1975 liber­ tween the Chinese and Soviet govern­ ation of Saigon from the U.S. puppet re­ ments, he said, "We want to have normal gime. The city was renamed Ho Chi Minh relations with China. We welcome any im­ City. The new government set to work provement in relations between China and right away to deal with the drug addiction, the Soviet Union." prostitution, and other social problems. that At the same time he expressed confi­ were promoted by the U.S. occupation. · dence that wo~ld public opinion would "There are many victims of the war;" roundly condemn the Chinese · aggression Nguyen Quang Van, director of the school, Job training is key at School for New Youth in Ho Chi Minh City against Vietnam. · told the Militant. ''There are many victims of Agent Orange, for example. But that disease is easier to see. Drug addiction is harder to see; it leaves its victims half alive Lively discussion at forums on Indochina and half dead. And as you can see, drug ad­ diction is very difficult to cure." BY MAE CRAMER tended were skeptical and anticommunist. the Militant Labor Forum. During the Viet­ Mr. Van had joined Vietnam's liberation Curiosity about what has happened in nam War Long, as a student at Harvard, forces when young and had served as a po­ Among the Vietnamese only a few were spoke outagainst the U.S. aggression. He Vietnam and Kampuchea over the last dec­ markedly hostile. Most were curious to litical education officer. Now he directs ade, as well as concern about the coming has been a target of several attacks by this center. Other provinces in southern know about recent progress and glad to see Vietnam-style war in Central America, has right-wingers who fire bombed his car sev­ Vietnam also have drug rehabilitation pictures of their homeland. provoked lively discussions at presenta­ eral years ago. schools, but this one is a special effort. tions of the slide show, "Vietnam and Kampucheans in the class were espe­ Long spoke of the enduring conse­ Mr. Van described the scope of the drug Kampuchea: an Eyewitness Report." cially pleased to see how their country has quences of the U.S. war for the Vietnam­ 'addiction problem. "According to docu­ Diane Wang, who spent a month in Viet­ revived since the brutal days of the Pol Pot ese. He explained that the Vietnamese had ments from the old regime, there were nam and Kampuchea for the Militant and regime and the 1979-80 famine there. fought, not to make history or to be heroic, 150,000 drug addicts here in Ho Chi Minh Intercontinental Press, has shown the slide A week earlier a march protisting the es­ but simply because they were forced to de-· City and perhaps 500,000 for the South as show at Militant Labor Forums in nine fend their country. In the same way, he a whole." calating U.S. war against El Salvador had cities around the country. passed nearby the English classes. Some suggested, Salvadorans are being forced Before 1975 some two tons of heroin In Louisville, Kentucky, Wang spoke to into a Vietnam-style war by the United were sold each month in Saigon, Van said. students and teachers received leaflets an­ two classes of Vietnamese and Kampu­ nouncing the Militant Labor Forum about States. "Of course, Vietnamese could not use all chean immigrants who are learning English Long explained why the U.S.~organized that, so Saigon was a center of the drug Vietnam and Kampuchea, and requested at a local community center. About 25 that the slide show be shown to their class. land reform failed in Vietnam and only ti:ade in Asia." people attended each class. deepened the war. He pointed out how · Many officials of the U.S. puppet gov­ There was a mixed response to the slide In Boston the Vietnamese professor, similar that land reform is to the one prom­ ernment helped direct the drug trade. show. A number of local teachers who at- Ngo Vinh Long, spoke along with Wang at oted by the United States in El Salvador Those officials took in as much as $100 today. million a year from drug deals, Van In Baltimore and Washington, D.C., explained. Chan Bun Han spoke with Wang at The School for New Youth helps 1 ,000 Solidarity With the Vietnamese People forums . Han is Kampuchean and an activ­ people at a time. Altogether it has treated Normalize Relations With Vietnam & Kampuchea! ist in the Committee in Solidarity with about 11,000, with a number returning for End the Economic Blockade! Vietnam, Kampuchea, and Laos. help after they become addicted again. No Vietnam Wars in Central America! The forums were held a few days before About 10 percent of the students are the elections in El Salvador, which were women. Nine years after the end of the war. Washington is still trying to "punish" Viet­ publicized and praised in the U.S. big­ Students range in age from 25 to 70 nam. to prevent its recovery from the ravages of 30 years of fighting. The Viet­ business press. Han compared such public­ namese people need our solidarity. years old, with the majority being between ity with how the U.S. media ignored the­ 35 and 40. As we saw from a display about . SPEAKERS democratic elections held in the People's the school's history, there has been a Rept,~blic of Kampuchea in 1981. Wash­ change in the student body. Originally, the STEVE CLARK ington does not want to recognize the school treated many drug addicts who were Editor, Intercontinental Press. Recently returned from a fact-finding legitimacy of the Kampuchean government triJ? toVietnam and Kampuchea. children. The older age of today's students that ousted Pol Pot, so it played down the shows there has-been progress in stamping A REPRESENTATIVE elections. In El Salvador, Han explained, out the drug trade before it affects the_ new of the Socicdist Republic of Vietnam Mission to the UN. Washington hails the elections to justify generations. Special Greetings from a representative of El Salvador's the growing U.S. military involvement Some people come here voluntarily or Farabundo Marti National Liberation Front (FMLN). there. are sent by their families or workplaces. In Detroit, Gary Trabue, who had But the majority are sent by loca] adminis­ Saturday, June 2, 1 pm, Donation $5 fought in Vietnam as a young, Black GI in trators. Marc Ballroom, 30 E. 16th St. (Cor. Union Square West), Manhattan the 1960s, spoke at the forum with Wang. The school tries to deal with both phys­ "The pain and suffering the Vietnamese ical and psychological addiction. "I think Ausp. MILITANT LABOR FORUM withstood put mirrors in front of a lot of our measures are different from those of For more information call 212-226-8474 or 201-643-3341 eyes," Trabue said. "It shook us, and it Continued on Page IS shook the foundation of this country.-"

June 8, 1984 The Militant s Ireland protests hit Reagan war policies

Many contingents carried signs con­ Olivia O'Brien, mother of Father Niall Ireland was forcibly partitioned by the demning Washington's war in Central O'Brien, demanded that Reagan get Philip­ British imperialists in 1921 . The British America: "Nicaragua will be Reagan's pines President Marcos to free her son from armed and financed rightist Protestants, Vietnam"; "Marines out of Honduras"; prison. called Unionists, who established a state in "Support Nicaragua"; "'Mine' your own Representatives of the Irish Anti-Apart­ the north based on privileges for the Protes­ business," referring to the CIA's mining of heid Movement, Irish Campaign for Nu­ tants. They practiced brutal repression and Nicaragua's harbors. clear Disarmament, and Chilean exile Fer­ discrimination against the impoverished There were several contingents from the nando Lanfranco also spoke. Catholic minority. The six counties, which Irish Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament The Irish Campaign Against Reagan's today make up.Northern Ireland, are oc­ (CND), including the Irish Trade Union Foreign Policy announced that more than cupied by armed British troops. They are CND. Many signs and chants were directed 30,000 people had signed petitions oppos­ governed directly by London. The 26 against the U.S. nuclear arsenal, which ing Reagan's foreign policy. counties in the south of Ireland are for­ threatens the entire world. mally independent. However, they are U.S. backing for the murderous Marcos Broad protest movement economically dominated by British im­ dictatorship in the Philippines was high­ The fact that Reagan is receiving an hon­ perialism. lighted because of the case of Irish priest orary doctorate of law degree from the Na­ In their fight to rid themselves of British Father Niall O'Brien. He has been impris­ tional University of Ireland (NUl) is also domination, the Irish people have run up oned by Marcos and falsely charged with being protested. Some university staff against U.S. rulers. as well. murder along with eight others who are members plan to burn their degrees when known here as the "Negros 9," after the Reagan gets his award. U.S.: ally of British imperialism Philippines province of Negros Occidental Fifty-five staff members of the Univer­ where they were arrested. Signs saying, The U.S. ruling class is a staunch sup­ sity College in Galway signed a letter pro­ "Free Father O'Brien and justice for the porter of British imperialist rule over Ire­ testing the university's decision to give Negros 9" and "Stop U.S. support to Mar­ land. On May 24, the U.S. Senate unani­ Reagan the degree. "lndeeq, the recent cos" were carried on the march. mously endorsed the report of the New Ire­ statement by President Reagan, that the . "Reagan supports apartheid," read a land Forum. United States will not be bound by the de­ banner from the Irish Anti-Apartheid This report _was put together by four cisions of the International Court of Justice Movemenf. A contingent of Chilean exiles major parties in Ireland: Fine Gael, Fianna concerning Central America, emphasizes also marched. There was a banner from the Fail, Irish Labor Party , and the Social the perversity of the NUl Senate in award­ Dublin Council of Trade Unions. Democratic and Labor Party. ing him a degree of Doctor of Laws," said Among the left and workers' parties that the letter. The Forum was supposed to come up participated were Sinn Fein and its youth Sections of the Catholic church hierar­ with a solution to the division of the coun­ group, the Republican Youth Movement. chy here oppose the visit and are .backing try. However, it refuses to advocate the Sinn Fein, which has close political ties protests against it. Bishop Eamonn Casey necessary steps to do that: getting the Brit­ with the Irish Republican Army (IRA), is of Galway has refused to be part of the wel­ ish out of Ireland and an end to the system the largest of the groups opposed to British coming platform for Reagan. Casey op­ of Protestant privilege. rule of Northern Ireland. Its goal is a united poses U.S. policies in Central America. democratic socialist republic of Ireland. By endorsing the report, the Senate gave A group of 75 Jesuit priests have urged . There were also contingents from a vote of political confidence to the Irish the Irish people to participate in "nonvio­ People's Democracy; Irish Labor Party; government and expressed its continuing Dublin, May 26. Similar protests will lent protests to show, by their absence from Workers Party; and the Communist Party opposition to the struggle by the Irish follow Reagan throughout visit to Ire­ the streets, their moral doubts about of Ireland. people for a united and independent home­ land. [Reagan's] Central America policy." land. The major argument by the government and businessmen against the anti-Reagan An oppressed nation The U.S. government also cooperates Continued from front page protests is that they will scare off U.S. in­ with British Prime, Minister Margaret icy, is adamantly opposed to any protests vestors and U.S. tourists. One sign gave a Behind the broad opposition to Reagan's Thatcher in harassing and jailing U.S. sup­ while Reagan is here. simple but eloquent answer. It was a map visit and the U.S. war in Central America porters of the Irish national struggle. of Ireland, inside of which was written is a strong identification with others in the Washington also refuses to allow members Socialist candidate tours Ireland "Not for sale." world who, like the Irish people, are fight­ of Sinn Fein, and other Irish activists, to SWP presidential candidate Mel Mason ing for dignity, economic justice, and self- enter the country. Joe Cahill, cochairman has emerged as an important participant in Trade unions fighting to survive determination. · of Sinn Fein, was arrested in New York on Supporters of the struggle for a united, May 17 on charges of illegally entering the the current protests and discussion. Mason The march ended at Iveagh House; free Ireland have been in the forefront of United States. Supporters were forced to arrived here May 25 for a week-long visit. where the Department of Foreign Af­ organizing opposition to Reagan's visit. raise $150,000 bail to get him out of He was invited to Ireland by the socialist . fairs is located. A brief rally was held That's no surprise. prison. organization People's Democracy (PO), there. which is affiliated to the Fourth Interna­ The first speaker at the rally was Tom tional. McGarry, president of the Federated Given that the Irish government invited Workers Union of Ireland, the second­ Funds needed to defray costs of Reagan, and some liberal opponents of largest Irish trade union in the country. Reagan's visit invited· the Democratic (Irish workers are organized by both Brit­ Party presidential candidates, PD thought ish-based trade unions and trade unions Mason trip to Ireland, Britain it was important to have the only socialist that only exist in Ireland.) candidate for president come to Ireland and "We're here because we' re opposed to BY YVONNE HAYES by these labor militants in their fight participate in the anti-Reagan protests. It Reagan's foreign policy," said McGarry. This issue of the Militant carries the first against the government of Margaret would provide the opportunity for the Irish He voiced the resentment of many people of Margaret Jayko's eyewitness reports on Thatcher. people to hear the truth about U.S. working here. They reject Reagan's use of his visit the important demonstrations in Ireland This important and exciting trip, how­ people's opposition to Washington's ag­ to Ireland, with his new-found interest in against U.S. war in Central America. Over ever, was not included in the socialist cam­ gression in Central America - an aggres~ his alleged Irish roots, to boost his election the next few weeks, she will follow these paign's original plans nor were the ex- ' sion conducted jointly by the Democratic campaign. actions and the tour of Socialist Workers penses of the trip budgeted. So tour and Republican parties. McGarry pointed out that in countries Party presidential candidate Mel Mason to schedules had to be reorganized, last-min­ Ireland and Britain. ute travel arrangements made, news re­ Mason intends to use the example of the like. South Africa, El Salvador, and the When Mason received an invitation leases sent out, and numerous overseas Irish people's active opposition to U.S. im­ Philippines, whose governments are from People's Democracy to visit Ireland calls placed. perialism to inspire all working people in backed by Washington, trade unions "are and participate in the protests of Reagan's To cover the unexpected costs of the the United States to mobilize against the fighting for their very existence." visit, the socialist campaign responded ea­ trip, the socialist campaign is turning to its Central America war. Like many other opponents of Reagan's visit, McGarry scored Reagan's hypocriti­ gerly. The task of building an international supporters and especially to those who fol­ A statement by Mason that he is also cal claim to be a defender of democracy movement in opposition to U.S. im­ low the campaign in the pages of the Mili­ here to show "solidarity with the Irish when he backs tyrants throughout the perialism's wars. is central for the socialist tant and Perspectiva Mundia/. A special people's struggle against British im­ world. campaign. $5,000 fund has been established to cover perialism" has been widely reported in the The Dublin Council of Trade Unions has The Irish people, long oppressed by travel expenses. newspapers and on the radio here. come out against Reagan's visit, as have British imperialism, are setting an example Campaign coordinators are confident two of Ireland's three main teachers' for working people worldwide by mobiliz­ that the response to this fund will be en­ 'Nicaragua will be Reagan's Vietnam' unions. Several members of parliament ing against the U.S. war in Central Ameri­ thusiastic . Even before this fund was · launched, one Militant reader had sent in a The May 26 march and rally in Dublin from the Irish Labor Party l)ave announced ca. For this reason, the participation of the that they will boycott Reagan's June 4 ad­ socialist candidate for president in these ac­ contribution of $100 earmarked for the Ire­ was one of several such protests that are land-Britain trip. Contributions to cover being organized. It was sponsored by the dress to the Dail, southern Ireland's parlia­ tions is very important. ment. The party has urged its members to Mason's trip is also a step toward the costs of the tour can be made payable to Irish Campaign Against Reagan's Foreign "Socialist Presidential Campaign." Policy, a coalition that includes Latin participate in anti-Reagan protests. strengthening solidarity between the Irish America solidarity groups, Catholic or­ freedom struggle and the Black liberation ganizations, and nuclear disarmament 'Nicaragua has tasted freedom' movement in the U.S . This is demonstrat­ 0 I am contributing $ ____ groups_. The next speaker was Sister Joanna ed, Jayko reports, by the interest in to help pay for Mel Mason's A contingent of Catholic nuns, dressed O'Connor of the Sisters for Justice, an or­ Mason's background as a leader of the trip to Ireland and Britain. Black struggle. · in religious habits, led off the march. Sev­ ganization of nuns. She said that as Chris­ 0 I would like to be a campaign eral carried a coffin with the names of the tians, they stand with the peasants of El Mason will also be traveling to Britain to volunteer. four U.S. church women who were raped Salvador, who are "brutalized by the participate in activities there protesting and murdered by the military in El Sal­ army," which gets its weapons from the U.S. war in El Salvador and Nicaragua and lVame ______vador in 1980. U.S. government. the placement of U.S. missiies in Europe. Address ______Marchers sang "We Shall Overcome," a O 'Connor condemned the U.S. training On June 9 in London he will join in a major theme song of the U.S. civil rights move­ of government torturers in Guatemala as action organized by the Committee for Nu­ City and State ______ment. There's a strong identification here well. clear Disarmament. Zip Tel. with the struggle of Blacks in the United She said that the people of Nicaragua, The socialist candidate's tour of Britain States for self-determination. through their revolution, have "tasted free­ will include visits to coal-mining centers in Mail to: Socialist Workers Presidential Campaign. 14 The contingent of nuns was followed by dom." That revolution, sl)e s~id, is one England and Wales. Mason will speak with Charles Ln.• lVew York,lVY 10014 a truck with a banner reading "Stop arms to where "people are more important than striking miners and plans to report back to (paid for by the Socialisl Workers Presidential El Salvador." profits." U.S. workers on the lessons being drawn <:ampaign <:ommittec) 21

6 The Mnitant June 8, 1984 U.S. socialist and Irish rights fighters address Dublin rally

BY MARGARET JAYKO campaigning. for one of Sinn Fein's candi­ DUBLIN - Mel Mason, Socialist dates in EEC elections. Workers Party candidate for U.S. presi­ Adams described Reagan's visit to Ire­ dent, spoke at a public meeting here along land as an "insult" to the people of El Sal­ with figures in the Irish liberation and anti­ vador, Nicaragua, and the Philippines. He war movements May 25. The meeting was pointed out that Reagan is an ally of British one of several organized by People's De­ Prime Minister Thatcher in her attacks on mocracy (PD), the socialist organization the Irish freedom struggle, attacks that are that invited Mason to tour Ireland. Through matched by Reagan's ·harassment of Irish these forums, featuring Mason as a keynote activists in the United States. speaker, PD hopes to help spur discussion The next speaker was Sean Crowe, elec­ on the links between the struggle in Ireland tion director for John Noonan, Sinn Fein's and Central America and between U.S. and candidate in the EEC elections in Dublin. ·British imperialism. Crowe pledged Sinn Fein's support for the The meeting was held at the Irish anti-Reagan actions. He said Sinn Fein's Women Workers Union hall here. Two un­ campaign stands for Irish independence marked cars full of Irish Special Branch and neutrality, both of which are under­ (plainclothes) cops sat outside the meeting mined by Reagan's visit ~ hall eying people going in. This attempted· The only reason the U.S. invests in Ire­ intimidation is one part of a broader effort land, declared Crowe, is for profits. Wash­ by the present neocolonial government to ington helps arm the hated British cops in curtail democratic rights. Northern Ireland, the Royal Ulster Con­ About 150 people packed into the meet­ stabulary. Reagan will condemn the IRA as ing, which was chaired by PD National "men of violence" in his speech to the Dail, Secretary Anne Speed. Speed is a well­ · yet he is financing the · war in Central known activist in the nationalist, socialist, America, Crowe said. labor, and feminist movements here. Reagan's visit also exposes the hypoc­ She announced PO's support for Sinn nsy of Prime Minister Garret FitzGerald, Fein's candidate in the elections for repre­ who refuses to meet with democratically sentative to the European Economic Com­ elected Sinn Fein representatives because U.S. Socialist Workers Party presidential candidate Mel Mason speaking at Dublin munity (EEC). Sino Fein's central cam­ of Sinn Fein's support for armed struggle meeting. Seated, from left, Bernadette Devlin; People's Democracy National Secre­ paign slogan is "One Ireland, One people." against the British. Yet he has no problem,. tary Anne Speed; and Joe Duffy, outgoing president of Union of StudentS in Ireland. . Joe Duffy, outgoing president of the said Crowe, meeting with the warmonger ' Union of Students in Ireland, was the first Reagan. speaker. Like many activists here, Duffy Sinn Fein, declared Crowe, supports na­ for these people to see thousands of Irish The U.S. rulers have always considered has done time in jail for his political activ- tional liberation groups that are fighting people protesting Reagan's visit and stand­ Latin America their backyard, said Mason. Hy. . oppression throughout the world. He con­ ing with them in their fight for dignity. "They don't want to give up their empire Duffy began by pointing to the carloads cluded by welcoming Mel Mason to Ire­ any more than Britain wants to give up Ire­ of Special Branch cops outside the meet­ land and wishing him success in his elec­ An inspiring example land." ing. The police force, he said, is supposed tion campaign. Mel Mason has gotten a very warm re­ Mason took up Washington's prop­ to protect people, not harass them. Duffy Eddie Conlon from the Reagan Recep­ sponse in Ireland and this meeting was no aganda that the rebellions against U.S. pointed to the recent eviction of workers tion Campaign declared his solidarity with exception. There's special interest in the domination of Central America were or- occupying the Ranks Flour Mill in Dublin, the unemployed in the United States. fact that he used to be a member of the . chestrated from the Soviet Union, Cuba, cir as another example of the real role of the "We're against the American ruling class Black Panther Party. Nicaragua. "Reagan wants us to believe cops, The cops, he predicted, will be fol­ -whether it has a.Republican or Demo­ Mason began by telling the audience that that the people of Central America can't lowing Mason and other fighters around cratic tag. The anti-Reagan actions are a "your centuries-long struggle is an exam­ think for themselves - that they need trying to harass and intimidate them. mark of solidarity with those suffering ple for freedom loving people every­ someone to tell them that they're hungry, Duffy took up the argument by ruling­ from Reagan's policies," said Conlon. where." He promised he would take what that they're poor, that they're oppressed." class politicians and businessmen that U.S. he learned on his trip to Ireland back to investment and tourism will drop off here if Bernadette Devtin . working people in the United States. Cuba's example · the Irish people demonstrate and "insult" Mason described the strikes in the Reagan on his visit. It is said the already Longtime leader of the nationalist strug­ There is one thing the people of Central gle, Bernadette Devlin, emphasized the United States by Arizona copper miners, America do get from Cuba, emphasized high unemployment will soar higher. Las Vegas casino workers, and Toledo Duffy pointed out that U.S. Vice-Pres. opportunities that exist to reach out to Mason - "a shining example." He de­ layers of working people who have not auto parts workers. U.S. working people, scribed some of the advances the Cuban George Bush came here several months said Mason, are also struggling to defend ago. Virtually no protests took place. That been involved in politics and mobilize people have made: free health care, free them against Reagan's visit. their rights and living standards. education, an end to unemployment and ra­ didn't prevent the Ford Motor Co. from Mason explained that Black people in closing down its plant in Cork, Duffy The most sinister aspect of the Irish gov­ cist discrimination, and big strides forward the United States identify with the struggle toward women's equality. The Cuban noted, ernment's argument against the protests, of the Irish, and would be impressed that Ronald Reagan will get an honorary de­ said Devlin, is the idea that whether or not people are. able to participate in making the the Irish civil rights movement has adopted decisions that affect their- lives, added gree, said Duffy, while the majority of you decide to fight for justice should be the song "We Shall Overcome." Irish people can't afford a decent educa­ guided by whether or not "you can bleed Mason. "Cuba is an example of interna­ "Black people in my home town of Sea­ tional solidarity," said Mason, and re­ tion. another dollar out of Ronald Reagan." side, California, were thrilled when they minded people of Cuban. ~s. Fidel Cas­ He urged everyone to protest at the Dail, Devlin reminded the audience that she found out I was coming to Ireland," he southern Ireland's parliament, on June 4 to toured the United States in 1981 to win tro's support for Bobby Sands. said. The imperialists know, said Mason, that show the world that the welcome Reagan support for the nationalist prisoners who Mason reported that as a city councilman will be given by Irish politicians is not "our were on hunger strike. Blacks, Indians, socialist revolutions like the one that took in Seaside, he had sent a letter to Thatcher place in Cuba "will forever seal the doom welcome." and Salvadorans turned out to express their blaming her for the deaths of Bobby Sands of exploitation. That's why they must go to Speed read a speech by Sinn Fein Pres. solidarity, she said. and the other Irish hunger strikers because In tum, she emphasized, it's important war. And that's why we must stop these Gerry Adams, that he had given while of her refusal to grant their demands to be wars." - treated with dignity. How? The National Black Independent Politi­ First, said 'Mason, by continuing the na­ cal Party also solidarized with the hunger tional liberation struggles that are taking strikers, Mason told the audience. place. Far from being a source of violence, The SWP candidate called for freedom the struggles of the Salvadoran and Irish for Nicky Kelly, a nationalist fighter who people are a force for peace. was framed up and has been imprisoned Secondly, he said, "we must mobilize to since June 1980. stop the U.S. war in Central America. I'm Mason explained that it's not siinply going to spread your example to the people Reagan's war in Central America. "It's of the United States." true Reagan is the commander-in-chief," And lastly, he said , it is the responsibil­ said Mason. "But since World War II, ity of the U.S. working class to replace the every U.S. president has been involved in a war-making government in Washington war. He reviewed Democratic Pres. James with a government of workers and farmers . Carter's record of aggression in support of "If Malcolm X were alive today," brutal dictatorships. He referred to the re­ Mason concluded, "he would be support­ cent bipartisan vote in the House of Repre­ ing the Irish freedom struggle. He would sentatives to send $62 million more to the be confident, as I am, that Ireland will be­ Derek """'''""JK Pr>nrr brutal dictatorship in El Salvador. "Both come to Western Europe what Cuba has Sinn Fein speaker Sean Crowe (left) and Eddie Conlon of Reagan Reception Cam­ parties are funding the war," emphasized become to the Western hemisphere." This paign. Mason. prediction was met with stormy applause.

June 8, 1984 The Mllitant 7 What led to_ Toledo workers· mililani MaJ

BY MALIK MIAH cinnati (also referred to in union publica­ They had learned from their shop floor ex­ can and must nght back against the union­ ~TOLEDO- This is a union town . It be­ tions as "Knuckles") - to intimidate perience what AP Parts' pact meant. They busting assault. Not to do so only embol­ came one after the historic 1934 strike at workers. It began to store food and other knew they couldn't accept it. They knew dens the employers. the Electric Auto-Lite Co. That battle pre­ supplies in the plant. that waiting for the courts, NLRB, or city This lesson was driven home by the pared the rise of the United Auto Workers Clearly AP Parts believed that the new hall to help thern would mean dying a slow UA W's experience before it finally struck (UA W) a year later and its development contract it imposed March 5 - with a death. AP Parts. The union leadership did every­ into a powerful national uni

(tiC' the UAW- auto assembly workers. VOL. ~2. NO. 20 TOI.EIJO. 01110. MAc:...Y:...:2::.5~.1~98~4~;:;;:;~-·"- · "_. "_' _·,._ .. _ Top UA W international officials vainly tried to avoid a fight with the company. il!J:t I &l!JCt! Rather than educate and mobilize the union Birthqf a Union membership to resist the takeback de­ Demonstration At AP Parts Company mands, these officials pushed the local Auto-Lite Strike Turns Into Battle Becomes Battle With Toledo Police Tlw 1''•"! /IJU ... '"''tn/1 union leadership to accept some conces­ 11 / o'f/1111 th•· -" '' ' ' '·' ••f art w lo·., "" tJw J~nt Auto sions. They sought to appease AP Parts. '-'"" ."irnko ·. ,, huh , ..,, trthutf'd lo lho · h1rth ,.f This proved difficult. The company did tho· l 'A If. ro·p,rrnl that f}u .. rnA•, .,_, h(/d ,..,, lntd not want to make a deal with the union- it ,., _,}1/fJ of 11 h1 ~ hl\ mth ltlttfklllff Arrv.,f,, ,,.,,,, wanted to crush it. o•rl . 1111rl thoso· ,, , ,,.,,,,.d W f'l/1 htlf'k /u lho · flll'ko•( The UA W leadership decided to keep lt no•,a."'''""""·"'iJi o' \ w o•ro • ·{ro •o•d A /, ,,_ 1-:. U /Jut/Ill workers on the job after the contract ex­ J.!l/11. /.al>"r lkpart,.u•nt pired March 4 - hoping it could still strike ,..,,nflntor. lt•l-'fl-"'-''l>!"•'rl tutho·:\utu /.lfo• st( /111 (/fltl a deal with the company. Meanwhile AP Parts was preparing for a confrontation. It brought in a notorious union-busting outfit of private goons - Front page of Toledo Union Journal published by UA W Local12. Local 12 shop committeemen and rank and file helped org­ Nuckols & Associates Security Inc. ofCin- anize May 21 action.

8 The Militant Jue 8, 1984 21 action

power did have an impact. It scared city of­ ficials. It forced AP Parts back into negoti­ ltions. It set an example for other workers - one that the employers across the coun­ try fear. It is an example that can be emulated by Jther unions. It will need to be if the em­ >loyers' drive is to be seriously <:ombated. That is one of the lessons of May 21 . ne labor movement will have to return to ile militant methods that built unions like lte UAW in the 1930s. On June 3, a Toledo rally will com­ rlemorate the 50th anniversary of the 1934 \uto-Lite strike. Learning the lessons of hat strike, and others that paved the way Or the growth of industrial unionism, will >e an invaluable aid to workers fighting to lefend the AP Parts strike and those who Militant/Nancy Bayasko Nill fight the other big battles that are com­ May 21 Toledo auto workers' action in solidarity with AP Parts strikers was attacked by cops. UA W members organized this militant ing. action after other efforts to stop company union-busting failed. •• hold valuable lessons lor Workers today longer hours on those workers still on the leadership explained the issues and ap­ ing this, the union ranks often take little in­ the employers. job. pealed for help on the basis of the common terest in routine union business. Lucas County Unemployed League The labor movement was very weak. An bonds among all working people. As Dobbs explains, there was a close re­ leaders were arrested. But they went di­ This proved successful. Some farmers lationship between the degree of union de­ ~llcrusted bureaucracy sat on top of the rectly from the courtroom where they were \merican Federation of Labor. These donated food to the strikers and joined in mocracy and the character of the leadership tried back to .the picket line. Thousands of atisfied officials feared any struggle the battles against the cops and strikebreak­ that came forward in the struggle. Workers workers were inspired to join them. By gainst the bosses' attacks. The unions, for ers. Others were at least neutralized so they took an active part in union affairs because May 23 more than 10,000 were on the ile most part, organized only skilled, did not oppose the strike. they knew their voice and votes were deci­ lines. 'bite, male workers and ignored the plight In Toledo the workers found a key ally sive, and they recognized that the union Events of a similar nature transpired in f millions of workers in basic industry. among the unemployed. The central leadership offered an effective fighting Minneapolis. The leaders of both strikes leadership of the Auto-Lite strike included strategy. The leadership, in tum, knew this !W strikes were organized, and those that were guided by the idea that government ere often resulted in defeats- or setbacks. socialists, members of the American strategy of uncompromising struggle with intervention cannot be allowed to stand in ' Workers Party, who were also leading the the employers depended on the mobiliza­ the way of the democratic exercise of union In this setting the Auto-Lite strike, the Lucas County Unemployed League. The tion of the rank and file. power. Otherwise the labor movement can 'eamsters strike, and the San Francisco League conducted a campaign to win un­ As in Minneapolis, among the central be completely hamstrung by the employers eneral strike, as Art Preis explained in employed workers to the side of the strik­ strike leaders in Toledo were socialists and through the courts. .abor' s Giant Step, "showed how the ers. This proved decisive. communists, including activists in the This too is a vital lesson. It is the rare vorkers could fight and win. They gave The need to seek allies, among farmers, American Workers Party. strike today that does not quickly result in a 1eart and hope to labor everywhere for the the unemployed, Blacks, Latinos, women, In Toledo and Minneapolis these revolu­ court injunction limiting the number of :Iimactic struggle that was to build the and others, remains crucial for the labor tionists rejected subordination of workers' pickets to an ineffective handful. Such in-. CIO." movement today. In Minneapolis andTo­ interests to collaboration with the employ­ junctions have been used at AP Parts in To­ Preis'. boo~. tells the. story of the CIO's ledo in 1934 such appeals were based on ers on any level. They knew that U.S. soci­ ledo. firs't'20 years. It includes a chapter on the labor's willingness to offer union solidarity ety is class divided and that workers and Moreover, the problem is broader than "Three strikes that paved the way." · to the struggles of other oppressed and ex­ employers share no common interests. court injunctions alone. Most current union The Minneapolis Teamsters' story is ploited groups. Unions, they believed, should be instru­ officials actually rely on government inter~ •ld in a four-volume series by Farrell ments of struggle to defend and advance vention rather than union power in con­ obbs (see ad). These four books are an Rank and' file control-union democracy workers' needs . frontation with the employers. {tensive account of the fight waged by the In his afterword Dobbs explains that The labor officialdom promotes the false eamsters from 1934 to 1941 against the union accomplishments in Minneapolis Attitude toward government idea that the government is neutral in con­ ucking bosses throughout the Midwest, flicts between workers and bosses. The of­ "were made possible through the interplay These were not abstract principles. At te government that stood behind them, of two basic factors. One of these was the ficials urge workers to keep faith in gov­ nd the top Teamster bureaucrats who tried crucial turning points in the '34 strikes they ernment institutions as fair arbiters and dis­ skillful and considerate leadership of the determined the course charted by the J undermine the workers' struggle. workers by revolutionary socialists." (This pensers of justice. Electing Democratic unions. In particular they affected the at­ Party "friends of labor" is the way to insure refers to the fact that central leaders of the titude the workers took toward government ..essons for today strike were members and supporters of the that labor gets a better deal, the officials intervention - whether through court in~ argue. These books were written, as Dobbs Communist League of America - a pre­ junctions, pressure from politicians, or the decessor of the Socialist Workers Party). In the AP Parts fight, top UA Wofficials Kplained in the afterword to the series, "to brutal use of cops and troops. told workers who wanted to act when com­ rovide something more than a description "The other," Dobbs continues, "was our In Toledo the employers obtained a court [the CLA members] championing of trade pany union-busting began to wait for the f the events that transpired. I have attemp­ injunction aimed at curbing picketing so as National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) to :d to place the reader in the position of the union democracy. Full membership par­ to make it ineffective in preventing scabs ticipation was encouraged in the organiza­ rule. The officials had confidence the :volutionists who guided the union ranks from breaking the strikes. This allowed NLRB would declare the new contract im­ -retrospectively looking over their shoul­ tion's internal affairs. Freedom to express Electric Auto-Lite to bring in 1 ,800 all points of view was upheld, as was the posed by the company over union objection ers, so to speak- as they assessed each strikebreakers. It could have quickly . an "unfair labor practice." Other labor offi- J<:Cessive problem and decided how to workers' right to set policy by majority brought the strike to a bitter end. vote." cials often counsel similar reliance on the eal with it." Art Preis explains that the Lucas County capitalist government. Dobbs explained this further in a 1980 Dobbs wrote the books for today's gen­ Unemployed League (which was also en­ In the AP Parts case - as in most others message sent to Minneapolis unionists ration of working-class fighters who seek joined from picketing by the court) decided -the NLRB ruled against the workers. It commemorating the anniversary of ) transform "labor's potential class power to challenge the injunction. On May 5, was the decision by secondary UA W offi­ "Bloody Friday," July 20, 1934, when two 11to a dynamically active force in the con­ 1934, League Secretary Sam Pollock sent a cials and rank-and-file workers to chal­ inuing struggle against the capitalist ex­ workers were gunned down by strikebreak­ letter to Judge R.R. Stuart in which he lenge the court injunction by organizing a •loiters." ing cops: explained that on May 7 the League: mass protest rally outsi_de AP Parts on May Both Dobbs and Preis wrote as partici­ "Proceeding accordingly, the rank and ". . . will deliberately and specifically 21 that opened the possibility of defeating file decided what demands would be made •ants and leaders of the 1934 events they violate the injunction epjoining us from AP Parts' union-busting. upon the trucking companies, how the bat­ lescribed, Dobbs in Minneapolis and Preis sympathetically picketing peacefully in In 1934 the strike leaderships in Min­ 11 Toledo. Their descriptions of those two tle for those demands would be carried on, support of the striking Auto Workers Fed­ Continued on Page 13 ·attles reveal several common characteris­ and what would be considered acceptable eral Union. terms for working agreements with em- tcs that contributed to the union victories. "We sincerely believe," wrote Pollock Further reading-----. ployers. · of the court injunction, "this ... is an abro­ ;olidarity and allies "These democratic practices," stressed gation of our democratic rights, contrary to By Farrell Dobbs: Dobbs, "unified the workers; gave them our constitutional liberties .... The workers who led the '34 strikes maximum strength in opposing the bosses; "Further, we believe that· the spirit and TeamsterRebellion, 192pp., $5.95 mew they could not win on their own. kept them solidified on a class basis no intent of this arbitrary injunction is another Teamster Power, 255 pp., $6.95 They recognized that even the mobilization matter. how difficult the battle; and made it specific example of an organized move­ Teamster Politics; 256 pp., $6.95 of large numbers of striking workers would · possible for the union to establish itself as a Teamster Bureaucracy, 304 pp., ment to curtail the rights of all workers to $6.95 ' not be enough to overcome the powerful power in the industry." organize, strike and picket effectively. resistance of the employers, backed by the Quite a contrast to the general state of af­ "Therefore," Pollock concluded, "with '>ig-business media and the government's fairs in the labor movement today, when full knowledge of the principles ... and By Art Preis: ;ops and courts. onc:;e again, a handful of comfortable offi­ ... consequences, we openly and publicly . Labor'sGiantStep, 538pp., $9.95 They appealed to all working people for cials sit on top of the unions making all violate an injunction which, in our opinion, :upport. In Minneapolis the Teamster major decisions. is a suppressive and oppressive act against Order from Pathfinder Press, 410 ;trike leadership built a collaborative pol it­ These top officials seek deals with the all workers." West St., New York, N.Y. 10014. cal relationship with local family farmers employers in an attempt to avoid serious This was a political act carried out to Please include 75 cents for postage Nho depe.nded on the trucking industry to struggle. They offer no effective resistance demonstrate to workers that there were and handling. ~et their produce to market. The strike to the attacks by the employing class. See- leaders prepared to lead in the fight against

June 8, 1984 The Militant 9 OCAW strikers seek solidarity in Sun Oil fight

BY KATY KARLIN Marcus Hook, the company is seeking to MARCUS HOOK, Pa. - In the eighth cripple the union further by dividing the week of our strike against the Sun Oil Co., work force into three separate seniority the Oil, Chemical and Atomic Workers systems. It, is also proposing a two-tier Local 8-901 added a new demand in the wage system under which workers hired negotiations: to reinstate two workers who after the contract settlement would start Sun Oil strike pickets at refinery outside Philadelphia. Strike is now entering its were fired ,for their picket-line activities, their jobs at a lower rate. In some job clas­ eleventh week. and to revoke disciplinary actions taken sifications the proposed starting wage is against five other workers who received half as much as workers currently receive. warning letters during the strike. "These A court injunction, which was levied ~orkers for "improper conduct" on the which organizes railroad workers, is hon­ guys were doing a good job on the picket hours after the strike began, is limiting the picket line. It cited one worker for destroy­ oring the OCA W picket lines. But rail cars line," said OCAW 8-901 Pres. Sam Hutch­ strikers to posting four pickets at the main ing the company's camera by using a hand driven by Conrail management enter the inson, "and the company is trying to make gate and two at the secondary gates. Dela­ mirror to . reflect the sun's rays into the plant daily. an example of them to. scare the rest of us." ware County sheriffs are on round-the­ camera lens. The refinery is being operated by mini­ The 900 members of the local have been clock duty at each gate as well , usually in a The refinery is being run by manage­ mal crews who are working 12-hour shifts, on strike since March 21, along with work­ one-to-one ratio with the pickets. ment - some of whom have been brought 7 days a week. Many of the scabs have not ers at the Sun refinery in Toledo, Ohio. The company has installed video to Marcus Hook from the Sun Co. nonun­ been properly traiQed on the units they're The Sun · Co. was the only ·oil company cameras and bright lights at each gate to re­ ion refinery in Puerto Rico - and by scab operating. The operation of the refinery is which refused to grant the industry-wide cord· any activity. These videotapes were .contractors. Trucks carrying petroleum representing an enormous risk to the sur­ pattern of a 20-cent raise in 1984 followed referred to as evidence in the company's products continue to roll in and out of the rounding community. by a 35-cent raise the following year. In disciplinary letters, which attacked the plant. The United Transportation Union, Some of the contract workers who are doing maintenance work inside the refinery · belong to building trades unions. In the first seven weeks of the strike, the National Labor Relations Board barred OCAW from Toledo coverage spurs 'Militant' sales picketing the contractors' gate because, ac­

~ cording to the NLRB, they weren't doing BY PEGGY BRUNDY Parts demonstration or had a cousin or the General Motors plant in Linden, New work that would have been done by Even befo~e last week's issue of the Mil­ uncle who was." They report widespread Jersey. While selling there, they learned OCAW members. The building trades itant came off the press, Militant sales­ discussion and thinking about other sol­ that United Auto Workers (UA W) Local unions said they would only stay out of the people around the country began organiz­ idarity actions that the unions could under­ 595, which organizes . workers at the Lin­ refinery if pickets were posted at their gate. ing special efforts to get out the facts about take. In the first three days of sales, den plant, had put out a general call for at­ But when the OCAW had the NLRB ruling the Toledo auto workers' fight to save their socialists in Toledo sold 200 copies and or­ tendance at a rally planned for the next day overturned and set up pickets at the con ~ union and to build solidarity. The story of dered another 200. in solidarity with workers locked out of tractors' gate the union members disre­ the Toledo battle, where unions joined to­ Over 50 copies of this issue were bought Merck Pharmaceutical. garded the pickets. gether in solidarity with striking AP Parts by participants in the Coalition of Black Merck raked in $500 million in profits · One picket said to a group of contract workers, is a powerful and inspiring exam­ Trade Unionists convention held in Cincin­ last year. Yet the owners are demanding workers, "We're only allowed two pickets ple. nati . Socialists there also took the paper to concessions - no wage increase for the at this gate. We've got cameras on us. Socialists in Toledo began selling the an African Liberation Day demonstration. next year, elimination of cost-of-living al­ There's nothing we can do to keep you out. Militant as soon as it arrived 'in town . They Among those interested in the Toledo lowance, and drastic reduction in medical But you're a union member so I'll leave it report selling 59 "right away" at the UA W coverage were two Black teachers of ninth. coverage. Even though the union that rep­ up to your own conscience." This wasn't organized Jeep plant, along with another grade students in Columbus, Ohio. The resents the workers at Merck, Local 8-575 very effective in keeping the contract 20 at other plant gates. "Everywhere you teachers explained that the Toledo strike, of the Oil, Chemical and Atomic Workers workers out. Some of them explained that go," our correspondent explained, "you like the strike of copper miners in Arizona, (OCA W), decided to continue working they would lose their jobs if they refused to run into auto workers or friends or relatives was important to follow closely. when their contract expired May I, Merck cross the picket line. of auto workers. Many were at the AP Socialists in Newark took the Militant to unilaterally cut off negotiations three days Others reminded the pickets that OCA W later and locked out the workers. didn't honor the picket line that the con­ Hundreds of people attended the solidar­ tract workers had set up two years ago ity rally, which- was held in front of the when Sun Oil hired a nonunion outfit to do SALES SCOREBOARD Merck plant, just one block from the GM a construction job. This sparked a lot of discussion among the strikers, many of (Week #6: Totals as of Militant issue # 19; PM issue # 10) Linden plant. The majority were unionists from the UAW, -OCAW, United Steel­ whom weren't even aware of the contract Eight-week Goal Sold So Far Total workers of America, and Greyhound work­ workers' picket lines when they were in ef­ MilitanU.,M Goal/Sold % Area Militant/PM ers organized by the Amalgamated Transit fect. Workers Union (ATU). The strikers then decided to leaflet the Toledo 800/40 856/22 840/878 105 contract workers explaining the demands 320/200 2531196 520/449 86 Seaside, Calif. Virtually everyone was interested in the of the strike and announcing that there Greensboro, N.C. 360/0 310/ 1 360/311 86 Militant headline "Toledo UA W battles I ,72011 ,394 would be a plant-gate collection the follow­ Los Angeles 840/880 752/642 81 cops in struggle to save union." Socialists Albany, N.Y. 704/56 558/47 760/605 80 ing day . The collection itself was a suc­ Oakland 570/170 4631124 740/587 79 sold 50 copies of the Militant, and talked cess. One electrician dropped a 20 dollar Denver 515/85 411 /65 600/476 79 with workers there. Frank Forrestal, one of bill in the collection bucket, and then got Dallas 400/200 270/205 600/475 79 the Militant salespeople, described the sol­ some of his coworkers to give donations. Milwaukee 8001160 658/89 9601747 78 idarity rally: "We met three OCAW work­ One 60-year-old member of the Laborers' Cleveland 675170 530/49 745/579 . 78 ers from Bristol, Pennsylvania, who work Union said, "I was once on strike for four Seattle 760/40 582/34 800/616 77 for Purex. They, too, are on strike. The months myself. I wish I dido 't have to . 500/387 San Diego 375/125. 272/115 77 previous week they had been in Toledo to cross the picket line." The collection Louisville 450/0 345/0 450/345 77 join their striking brothers and sisters at turned up several hundred dollars. Chicago 900/300 7731154 I ,200/927 77 Sun Oil." Birmingham 600/0 453/0 600/453 76 Solidarity has played a role in other ac­ Baltimore 800/20 60217 820/609 74 The current issues of the Militant and tivities in the course of the strike. The re­ Washington, D.C. 515/105 371 /84 620/455 73 PM, with their extensive coverage of the finery is in Delaware County, a heavily in­ · Miami 720/80 460/ 114 800/574 72 Toledo strike and its lessons, offer an op­ dustrialized area south of Philadelphia that Salt Lake City 400/40 263/48 440131 r 71 suffers a 17 percent unemployment rate. Phoenix 600/320 499/153 920/652 71 portunity to reach more unionists, Blacks, and others with the facts of this important Most of the people who live here are union­ San Francisco 755/325 540/214 I ,0801754 70 ists or related to someone who is . Philadelphia 640/160 451 /110 800/561 70 battle, the lessons being drawn, and the Virginia, Minn . 500/0 352/0 500/352 70 need for solidarity with the embattled Workers at another big company in De­ Atlanta 760/40 540/17 800/557 70 UA W. Discussing the events in Toledo laware County, the Boeing Vertol helicop­ Morgantown, W. Va. 440/0 302/0 440/302 69 with coworkers and others who buy the ter plant that is organized by the United Houston 555/195 3751141 750/516 69 Militant or PM will be at the center of cir­ Auto Workers, devoted an entire issue of San Jose ~80/ 80 282/98 560/380 68 culating the socialist press this week. its union newsletter to the Sun Oil strike Price, Utah 336/24 227117 360/244 68 and its significance to all workers. The fol­ Detroit I ,040/40 709/27 I ,0801736 68 The sales drive scoreboard this week in­ lowing day UA W members collected Newport News, Va . 400/0 258/0 400/258 65 cludes a new category. Under the new mis­ money for the strike (Boeing management Minneapolis/St. Paul I, 120/80 732/37 I ,2001769 64 cellaneous heading we will report on sales prohibited OCA W members from collect­ New Orleans 1 720/80 449/39 800/488 61 in areas where there is currently no branch 533/0 . 322/0 533/322 60 ing at the gates) and got $1 ,972 from the St. Louis of the Socialist Workers Party. This week Portland 3201160 192/97 480/289 60 workers. A similar collection at the Scott Indianapolis 760/0 359/0 760/359 47 the category includes sales during the effort Paper plant gate brought in $1,500. Cincinnati 600/0 283/0 600/283 47 to collect signatures to put the SWP's pres­ Another important act of solidarity has Newark I ,250/250 466/206 I ,500/672 45 idential ticket on the ballot in Nebraska. been the participation of OCAW members Kansas City 650125 295/8 675/303 45 Over 200 copies of the Militant have been · from the Getty refinery in Newscastle, De­ Pittsburgh 850/0 366/0 850/366 43 sold in two weeks of petitioning and cam­ laware, on the picket lines. Charleston, W. Va. 450/0 165/0 4501165 37 paigning forthe socialist candidates. Boston 640/160 266117 800/283 35 Branches of the Socialist Workers Party Katy Karlin is a member of the Oil, Chem­ New York City I ,600/550 5381192 2,1501730 34 are currently discussing plans for continu­ ical and Atomic Workers Local 8-901 at 459/45 504 Miscellaneous ing widespread distribution of the Militant Sun Oil and is the' Socialist Workers Party Total sold 18,609/3,414 22,023 and PM after this issue, the last full week candidate for Congress in Pennsylvania's of the sales drive. 2nd Congressional District.

10 The Militant June 8, 1984 Ohio women fight to regain auto jobs

BY SUSAN LOMAN hiring of women. Ford has a long history of CLEVELAND - On May 7, some 35 discriminatory hiring policies against people - laid-off women auto workers, women. their husbands, and children - held a Floyd knows of women who applied at peaceful demonstration at the Ford Stamp­ Ford Walton Hills in the late 1960s and ing Plant in Walton Hills outside of Cleve­ were never hired. A few women were hired land. The group, known as United Women in 1973, and then laid off on the 89th day of Walton Hills, is demanding that Ford re­ of their probation- one day short of mak­ hire them and others who are still laid off ing it into the union. A few more women, from the plant. including Floyd, were hired in I977, only The dei:Donstration, which was covered to be permanently laid off in I979. Floyd by the local media, drew attention to the estimates that less than I 00 women were fact that there are now no women working working at Ford in the late 1970s (out of a at the Walton Hills plant. The few women total of 4,300 workers), and now there are who had been hired by Ford in the 1970s none. have all been laid off, and all but a handful Unfortunately, United Women is fight­ have lost their rec~ll rights. ing Ford's discriminatory policies without The demonstration took place during the help of the union. The officials of Local shift change. The demonstrators carried 420 of the United Auto Workers maintains signs that said "Stop the greed and help there is nothing they can do to help the those in need," "Women want jobs just like women regain their jobs because of the men," and other slogans. seniority system. Carrie Floyd, a spokeswoman for United Floyd recently filed a complaint with the Women, told the Militant that some people EEOC, charging Ford with discrimination did honk their horns as they drove by. against women. Some of the auto workers came out and United Women plans to try to reach all talked to the pickets. Some were support­ the women who have been laid off and get ive of the women's fight to get their jobs themInvolved. "We're going to continue back. Others had mixed reactions, she to fight," said Floyd. · "Last hired, first fired" system has decimated number of women in auto plants. said. Floyd explained how United Women was formed. "Since they are working so much overtime at Ford, and since we 're all K. C. auto workers meet Andrea Gonzalez laid off, we said, 'Why don't we do some­ thing about it, to try to get back in?' BY MARCIA GALLO transfer to plants here in order to keep their "We do realize that the plant runs on a KANSAS CITY- The employers' at­ jobs with GM after they were laid off in seniority basis. But we feel that there is a tacks on the United Auto Workers union California. Now they are facing the diffi­ problem, and there is a solution. If they (UA W) were a focus of an early May cam­ cult decision of whether to stay at GM in would cut out the overtime, this would paign stop here by Andrea Gonzalez, Kansas City or quit GM and return to allow everyone to get back to work full­ Socialist Workers Party candidate for vice­ California seeking jobs at the Fremont time or part-time. For the past three years, president . plant, which is scheduled to reopen later there have been people working 7 days a Seven auto workers from the Fairfax and this year under the joint ownership of GM • week, 10 or 12 hours a day." Leeds General Motors plants here attended and Toyota. Over I ,000 auto workers here Floyd pointed out that Ford. has never their first socialist campaign rally, includ­ will have to make this choice during the lived up to an agreement signed in 1980 ing several UA W members who used to next few months. with the Equal Employment Opportunity work at the Fremont, California, GM The decision to return is a risky one Commission (EEOC). The agreement re­ plant. since management at the Fremont plant has quired Ford to institute affirmative-action The ex-Fremont workers were forced to now declared, "As a new and independent company, our policies and labor relations will differ from those that existed when General Motors owned the Fremont facili­ Socialist campaign rally denounces ty . None of the former agreements with , GM apply to us ." Wages, benefits, work Agent Orange war crimes rules and union rights are all in question· at the "New United Motor Manufacturing Militant/Harry Ring Andrea Gonz81ez, ~ialist candidate for Inc.," as the plant is now called. BY MICHAEL MAGGI are fighting a war on two fronts," she said, U.S. vice-president. At a dinner before the campaign rally SAN DIEGO- The Socialist Workers "against workers and farmers struggling one of the former Fremont workers campaign rally here on May I3 opened for a decent life and living in the United explained some of the working conditions with rally chairperson Dean Denno de­ States and against the workers and peasants and the activities of union militants at the . Another featured speaker at the rally was nouncing the out-of-court settlement of the of the world, especially in Central Ameri­ old Fremont plant. His stories gave every­ Diane Shur, an auto worker at the Fairfax Agent Orange suit. The suit was brought ca. But the people of Nicaragua have ex­ one an idea of why Local 1364 at Fremont GM plant and the socialist candidate for perienced their first real freedom and dig­ by Vietnam veterans in a New York federal had a reputation as a fighting UA W local. Congress in the 5th Congressional District. court. nity in centuries. The Salvadorans can see Two other campaign supporters at the After hearing Shur's speech, a steelworker Denno called the deal, which was struck victory in sight. They will not be de­ dinner drove three and a half hours from in the audience said, "When I came here I between attorneys for some of the veterans feated ." · was planning to support Allen Wheat [the Salina, Kansas , to hear the socialist candi­ and the lawyers for the government and The rally also featured the two socialist incumbent Democrat], but your talk gave date. They plan to help spread the socialist seven chemical companies, a "gross cover-· candidates for Congress in the San Diego me something to think about." . platform in the mostly rural area of central up." area. At the event, $2,500 was raised for the Kansas. "The crime of dumping 12 million gal­ Mary Jo Vogel, the SWP candidate in campaign., The rally was held in a church on the lons of Agent Orange poison on millions of the 41st Congressional District is an air­ Gonzalez and · Shur also attended a predominantly Mexican-American west Vietnamese and the poisoning of thousands craft assembler at Teledyne-Ryan and a breakfast with 10 auto workers held at a side of Kansas City. Gonzalez spoke on the of U.S. Gis is one of the worst war crimes member of United Auto Workers Local truck stop near the Fairfax plant at 2 a.m. need to · revitalize the unions and to fight in human history ,"Denno said. "The terri­ 506. one morning. The discussion centered against concessions and for social justice. ble consequences of having u·sed Agent Mari Hawkes is the socialist candidate in around upcoming national contract negoti­ She raised the idea of the union movement Orange will plague future generations in the 44th Congressional District. She is an ations as well as the opening of the New taking the lead in running candidates inde­ Vietnam and the United Stateswith cancer, electronics assembler at General Dynamics United Motor plant in Fremont. pendent of the Democratic and Republican leukemia, and birth defects. Corp. and a member of International As­ Several of those attending the breakfast parties. And she explained that the war in "While the U.S. government covers up sociation of Machinists Lodge 1125. were Mexican and Chicano workers who Central America is part of a common of­ its crimes and turns its back on the tens of Hawkes works for one of the largest war were especially interested when Gonzalez fensive by the U.S. rulers against working profiteers in the country. She described the described her recent visit and discussions thousands of victims," Denno continued, people here and abroad. "the Vietnamese government is doing all in discussions she has with her coworkers on with farm workers in the Rio Grande Val­ its power to give the victims and their the U.S. war drive in Central America. ley region of Texas. She explained the families the medical, psychological, and "I've found that many people like the idea problems facing these workers as a result social service help that they need." of working people running this country and of the freeze this winter that virtually de­ Denno pointed out that Vietnam uses its oppose U,S. intervention in Central Amer­ stroyed the citrus groves. Tens of resources to provide free !lid and shares its ica, but never quite thought of putting the thousands of farm workers were thrown out research about the problems caused by two ideas together. Well, that's what my of work. Agent Orange through international medi­ campaign, in essence, is all about." One worker was especially familiar with cal conferences that the U.S. government "In Nicaragua, if the owner of a tuna the problems facing farm workers and had has boycotted and attempted to sabotage. cannery - like the Van Camps cannery closely followed the organizing drives of A meeting of over 100 Vietnam vets met here- tried to shut down his plant, lay off - the United Farm Workers. in San Diego the following night to discuss I ,200 workers', and move to Thailand Later that day Gonzalez, Shur, and sev­ the settlement and voted to oppose it. They where he could pay lower wages, the gov­ eral campaign supporters who work at the cited two grounds in their statement to the ernment would intervene on the side of the Fairfax plant distributed literature and press. First, the financial settlement is only workers. talked to workers between shifts at the a drop in the bucket compared to the med­ "A workers and farmers government plant gate. For many it was the first time ical needs of those suffering from the ef­ would keep the cannery open. But because they had seen literature on the socialist fects of Agent Orange. we have a capitalist government that de- · election campaign or had a chance to meet Second, the veterans don't like to see the fends the owners and their profits over ev- • a candidate running in the presidential elec­ truth swept under the carpet. erything else, all we get are pink slips." tions. Both candidates received a friendly Socialist Workers Party vice-presiden­ Two representatives of Womancare, a ·response and several hundred pieces of lit­ tial candidate Andrea Gonzalez speaking at · local women's health and social services erature-were handed out within a half hour. the rally took up Washington's new Viet­ center, gave greetings to the ·rally and de­ Diane Shur, Kansas City auto worker That evening, Spanish-speaking work­ nam-style war in Central America. scribed the attacks on abortion rights by the and socia~ist candidate for U.S. Con­ ers, including Salvadorans, gathered at a 'The capitalists and ·their government government and ultra-right groups. gress. house meeting to talk with Gonzalez.

June 8, 1984 The MHitant Nicaragua hosts unionists' antiwar meeting

BY MICHAEL BAUMANN MANAGUA, Nicaragua ~ "No inter­ vention in Central America!" was the watchword as delegates of 300 trade union bodies from 50 countries gathered here in an antiwar conference at the end of April. Delegates came from every continent and from virtually all trade union currents - ranging from the World Federation of Trade Unions, based in Eastern Europe, to the AFL-CIO. They were united in th~ir opposition to the threat of nuclear war and to wider war in Central America or any­ where else. Held in .the midst of the biggest U.S. of­ fensive against Nicaragua since the 1979 revolution here, the conference stressed the interest of workers around the world in de­ fending Nicaragua. "We support the Nicaraguan popular process," the delegates said in a special motion. Trade union delegates (right) from every continent met in Managua. They condemned threat of nuclear conflict, spread of "We demand there be no intervention in war in Central America, and aggression against Nicaragua. At left, Nicaragua's Commanders Victor Tirado and Daniel Or­ the internal affairs of Nicaragua .... tega (with glasses) greet delegates. "We condemn the mining of Nicara­ gua's ports, aggression coming from any people having discussions, handing out conferences held during the conference than 50 persons had been lcilled April 23- territory, the external support of any ag­ leaflets." were a report on the trade union situation in 24 by the army and police, and that more gressive group, the economic blockade, or Other delegates and observers from the El Salvador and on the revolt against the than 4,000 persons had been arrested. any other aggressive action." United States included members and local . rise in food prices in the Dominican Re­ In a special resolution on the Dominican And, the motion added, "Although we officials of the United Steelworkers; public in late April. Republic, adopted at the closing session of comprise workers from all continents and United Transportation Union; International Delegates from El Salvador reported that the conference, delegates unanimously ideologies, we call now on all such people . Longshoremen's and Warehousemen's more than 30,000 workers were out on voted to condemn the pressure from the In­ to help in the direct economic reconstruc­ Union; Communications Workers; Service strike there against the four-year wage ternational Monetary Fund that lay behind tion of Nicaragua." Employees International; American Feder­ freeze, and that the country's large and the price increases, condemned the The International Trade Union Confer­ ation of State, County and Municipal Em­ well-organized teachers federation, Dominican government for the repressive ence for Peace, held in Managua April24- ployees; American Federation of Teachers; ANDES, had begun to participate directly action it had taken, and demanded the im­ 27, was called by the Nicaraguan Federa­ and the Arizona Farm Workers union. in the work stoppages. mediate release of all who had been de­ tion of Trade Unions (CSN). Appropriately Among the special meetings and news Dominican delegates reported that more tained. enough, the gathering took place at the country club expropriated from the dic­ tatorship an<;l its wealthy backers. It is now ·converted into an international conference center. Delegates see U.S.-inflicted war damage The conference's special significance stems from the fact that it was a gathering BY JOE SWANSON killed and 20 wounded. The contra~ in this area have been bro­ of representatives of workers - those who JALAPA, Nicaragua - U.S. combat Defense of the area is carried out by the ken up into small groups, Lopez said. The have the most to lose from an increase in troops are stationed just 13 miles inside Sandinista army, the People's Militia, and last attack came about two weeks ago, but war and military spending, and the most to Honduras from this northern border town, members of farmer cooperatives who are air violations take place-all the time. LOpez gain from defeat of the imperialist war explained Sandinista army Capt. Hector well armed. told us that just in the previous week there drive. Lopez. The U .S. governme_nt is building A member of the United Electrical had been eight violations of Nicaraguan The U.S. delegation, made up of 30 rep­ an air strip there as well. · · Workers from Canada, whose father was a airspace by U.S. C~l30 aircraft. . resentatives from 17 unions, including Lopez gave a briefing to 150 trade farmer, commented with disgust: "It's a A delegate from Philadelphia, a member some of the largest in the country, played unipnists from Latin America, Asia, the damn bloody shame when a farmer has to an active part in the conference. of ·the American Federation of State, Middle East, North America, and Australia go to the field to work with a rifle strapped County and Municipal Employees, felt that "We are well aware of our role in the who had attended the International Trade to his back." conflicts here" in Central America, the de­ direct U.S. military intervention in Central Union Conference for Peace, held in Ma­ When CIA-trained counterrevolution­ America is very likely. legation told a news conference April 27. nagua April 24-27. aries (contras) attacked in large numbers "We are not 'third parties.' We know that it Those of us who traveled by bus to see from the east and the north two years ago, "A U.S. invasion is being set," he said, "and I don't know if we can stop it." is the U.S. government which is the main firsthand the impact of the war on the bor­ some Nicaraguan border posts were taken. cause of the problems Nicaragua is ex­ der region included 25 delegates and obser­ They tried to set up a "provisional govern­ But the U.S. unionists who attended the periencing." vers from 14 different U .S. unions. ment," Lopez explained, but the posts were conference are going home to try. Because The U .S. delegates also made clear that We stopped about five miles from the .retaken by the Sandinistas. it has been shown to us that the Nicaraguan while they were confident they spoke for Honduran border, where Captain Lopez An Iranian delegate asked if any chemi­ people want peace, but they also will not the interests and sentiment of the great and his Sandinista soldiers greeted us with cal weapons were being used by the con­ be defeated by any U .S. force. majority of U.S. workers, top officials of smiles and handshakes. tras. He explained how the government of the AFL-CIO support the Reagan adminis­ Lopez explained that although there are Iraq_has used such weapons against Iran . Joe Swanson. a member of United Trans­ tration on the question of involvement in continuous skirmishes in the region, there Lopez said the contras have used rockets portation Union Local 305 in Nebraska, Central America. has been no large-scale attack since June loaded with phosphorus, a napalm-like was an observer at the International Trade Efforts to change this, they promised, 1983, when 13 Sandinista . soldiers were substance, to create terror and death, Union Conference for Peace. would be a priority when they returned. For most of the U.S. delegates, this was their first visit to Nicaragua. Many of them took advantage of trips sponsored by the Black unionists support Marroquin fight conference organizers to get a firsthand glimpse of the cost of the U.S. war. CINCINNATI- Socialist Hector Mar­ urging supporters to step up the campaign Jersey. There, Marroquin's attorneys will They visited the border region, where roquin, who is fighting against U.S. at­ to win his green card. ask the court to order the INS to allow him the war has taken several thousand lives tempts to deport him from this country be­ to remain here while his green-card appli­ and displaced· 30,000 peasant families. The new support won for Marroquin at cause of his political ideas, attended the the CBTU convention comes at an impor­ cation is pending. And they visited the country's major port, May 25-28 Coalition of 'Black Trade Corinto, which has been mined by the tant time. The U.S. Supreme Court could Unionists (CBTU) conference here. rule any day on Marroquin's appeal for po­ The June II hearing is before Judge Dic­ CIA. kinson Debevoise. It begins at 10 a.m. at He and his supporters got more than 150 ·litical asylum. As a result, the fight for his "I wish more American unionists would the Federal Courthouse on Franklin and signatures from the unionists demanding right to extra time to pursue his green card come here," said Richard Metcalf, a Broad streets in Newark. All supporters of that the Immigration and Naturalization takes on added importance. spokesman for the group. Metcalf, from Service (INS) allow him to stay in the Marroquin are urged to attend. For more Minneapolis, is a midwestern regional offi­ United States until his application for per­ A June II hearing is slated in Newark at . information, call PROF at (212) 691- cial of the Amalgamated Clothing and Tex­ manent residency - a green card - is the U.S. District Court, District of New 3270. tile Workers Union. finished . "They would see that these are the same Several CBTU leaders have been kind ofatrocities the United States commit­ longtime supporters of Marroquin's fight Condemn assassination·of Vietnamese ted in Vietnam. Schools and daycare cen­ for political asylum in the United States. Continued from front page union-busting attacks, and Blacks defend­ ters are being bombed. Crops are being These include William Lucy, CBTU presi­ burned. spoken to get out the_truth about their coun­ ing themselves from racist assault. dent; Congressman Charles Hayes, CBTU try. If the killers are allowed to get away "If the people of the United States knew executive vice-president; William Simons, The government allows right-wing ter­ with this latest crime, it will embolden how big this war was, there'd be more pro­ CBTU treasurer; and Horace Sheffield; rorists - from Cuban counterrevolution­ right-wing thugs and the government toes­ test against Reagan." CBTU secretary. Among the new endor­ ary groups like Alpha 66 and Omega 7 to calate their attacks. When asked if he'd seen instances of the sers of Marroquin's case are seven more Vietnamese rightist squads - to operate The labor movement, Black and Latino "lack of freedom" Nicaragua supposedly members of the CBTU's executive coun­ unhampen!d. organizations, and all opponents of U.S. suffers from, Metcalf replied: cil. The May 28 assassination in San Fran­ military intervention should speak out "We've been laughing about this since Many other Black unionists signed Mar­ cisco is a serious threat· to everyone who against moves to cover up this political we've been here. There are more political roquin's petition to the U .S. government. opposes U.S. domestic and foreign policy. murder. Messages demanding a thorough parties, more discussion, more debate, The response reflects the widespread sup­ It is aimed not only at intimidating support­ ·investigation should be sent to the San than you see in the United States. There are port for Marroquin that can be won. The ers of the Vietnamese revolution, but at Francisco Police Department, and every­ somewhere between 9 and 11 polit,ical par­ Political Rights Defense Fund (PROF), those speaking out against the U.S. war in one who can do so should be at the New ties here. Everywhere you go you see which is coordinating Marroquin's fight, is Central America, trade unionists opposing York solidarity ratly on June 2.

12 The MUitant June 8, 1984 -THEGREATSOC~TY-~------

Well, that's different - The States Information Agency, not · permit women peace activists to stay afloat. He's down to his last the Heritage Bank in Anaheim, New York Times offered a clarifi~ the CIA. The USIA, it seems, is have a contingent. "We don't want 7,000 acres, including 2,000 for Calif., and handed over a note ad­ cation of an article about the CIA duly authorized by Congress to to play ball with them," declared grazing sheep and cattle and a half vising that the cash be turned over flying foreign journalists to El Sal- contribute to the prostitution of the the grand marshal, "so we pick up acre of daffodils in front of the or else. The person receiving the press. · our ball and go home." Besides, house. The paintings did fetch note explained she worked for the he added, "They are strange, in a $2.95 million. But, groused the FDIC and the bank had no cash, And often do - Responding to sense, in that they look different duke, "If the government left ev­ having just gone bust. recent negative publicity about than other ladies I know." eryone with a little more, we lavishly paid auto execs, one of wouldn't need all this, would Fashion tip - Countess Mara, Har.ry them commented that a recent sur­ we?" Inc., offers a diamond studded tie, vey showed many people feel De­ Funniest billboard of the year no two alike, $5,000. A reporter Ring troit is run by men "who wear - The Trust Company of New Travel tip - For that African asked how you tie it without three-piece suits, smoke smelly Jersey advises: . "The bank with safari, or your next trip to Disney­ damaging the fabric. "That's not cigars and want to rape and pillage heart - Loves Making Loans." land, a ventilated pith helmet with our problem," snapped company vador and feeding them "news" the public." a solar powered fan to cool your Pres. D . Gordon Williams. "I'm about the elections. The article brow. Batteries for night use. not a chaplain. I don't ask custom­ had referred to three previous True, some people are strange He's got a point - The Duke $89.50. ers about their problems." As far U.S.-subsidized trips by foreign - A veteran's council in Roches­ of Sutherland,'whose family e.state as he's concerned, "they can wrap journalists, but didn't explain ter, N.Y. , cancelled the annual in Scotland once totalled a million Some days it don't pay to get it around their head for a sweat these were paid for by the United Memorial Day parade rather than acres, had to sell four paintings to out of bed - A chap walked into band." --CALENDAR------MASSACHUSETTS NEW JERSEY tion call (212) 228-4500. Can We Save Our Jobs? Speakers: Jeff McDonald, research department, Allied Indus­ Boston Newark ·PENNSYLVANIA trial Union; Mark Rosenbaum, president of Defending the Revolution in Nicaragua. Slide Black Political Perspectives in '84. Speakers: Pittsburgh Local P40, United Food and Commercial show arid eyewitness account. Speakers: Kip representative of Black Organization of Stu­ Workers (Patrick Cudahy); Chris Breihan, Hedges, Socialist Workers Party and member of dents at Rutgers; Nan Bailey, Socialist Workers New Bedford Rape Trial and the Fight for Women's Rights. Speakers: Robin Connors, member of United Auto Workers Local438 and International Union of Electronic Workers candidate for 16th Congressional District in Socialist Workers Party. Translation to Local 201; Jean Zuman, nurse and member of New York; Ken Morgan, member of National Pittsburgh Action Against Rape; Mary Nell Bockman, Pittsburgh Young Socialist Alliance. Spanish. Sun., June 3; 7:30 p.m. 4707 W Lis­ Young Socialist Alliance. Both recently re­ Black Independent Political Party Central Com­ bon Ave. Donation: $2. Ausp: Militant Labor turned from fact-finding trip to Nicaragua. mittee. Translation to Spanish. Fri. , June 8. Sat., June 2, 7:30p.m. 141 S Highland Ave . Donation: $2. Ausp: Militant LabofForum. For Forum. For more informationcall (414) 445- Sun., June 10, 7:30p.m. 510 Commonwealth Dinner, 6:30 p.m.; forum, 7:30 p.m. 141 2076. Ave., 4th floor. (Kenmore T) . Donation: $2. Halsey. Donation: forum $2; dinner $3. For more information call (412) 362-6767. · Ausp: Militant Forum. For more information more information call (201) 643-3341. Police Brutality Against the Black Communi­ call (617) 262-4621. ty. Speaker: Andy Towbin, Pittsburgh Young Why Aren't There Enough Jobs for Youth? NEW YORK Socialist Alliance. Sat., June 9, 7:30p.m. 141 A discussion on solutions to unemployment, MINNESOTA Manhattan S Highland Ave. Donation: $2. Ausp: Militant police brutality, and other problems facing Labor Forum. For more information call (412) St. Paul Dem~tration in Memory of Julius and youth. Malcolm X on tape: "The Ballo! or the Grenada Under U.S. Occupation: Eyewit­ Ethel Rosenberg on the 31st Anniversary of 362-6767. Bullet." Speaker: representative of Young ness Report and Slide show. Speaker: August Their Execution, June 19, 1953. U.S. Federal Socialist Alliance. Tues., June 5, 7 p.m. 4707 Nimtz, member of Socialist Workers Party, re­ Courthouse, Foley Square. Tues., June 19, WISCONSIN W Lisbon Ave. Ausp: Young Socialist Al­ cently returned from fact-finding tour of Gre­ · noon to 2 p.m. Ausp: National Committee to Milwaukee liance. For more information call (414) 445- nada. Translation to Spanish. Sat., June 9, 7:30 Reopen the Rosenberg Case. For more informa- Plant Closings and Run-away Shops: How 2076. - p.m. 508 N Snelling Ave. Donation: $2. Ausp: Militant Forum. For more information call (612) 644-6325. MISSOURI 1934 strikes hold valuable lesson~ for today Kansas City Malcolm X and the 1984 Elections-Are His Continued from Page 9 sides that, the workers had been consulted fight of the Las Vegas hotel employees. Ideas Relevant Today? Speaker: Wells Todd, neapolis and Toledo recognized that the about every step taken; they believed in the These are all small signs of what is still to Socialist Workers Party. Sun., June 3, 7 p.m. government is not neptral in labor disputes. policies that were followed; and for these come- a generalized labor fightback. 4715A Troost. Donation: $2. Ausp: Militant The government, through its many institu­ reasons it was not hard for them to recog­ Out of these struggles, and others to Labor Forum. For more information call (816) tions (c~urts, cops, etc.), consistently in­ nize th~ red-baiting as an attack on the come, new leaders are coming forward. 753-0404. tervenes on the side of the employers. union itself." Many do not yet have a fully developed The '34 strike leaders openly explained Today, as in 1934, the labor movement strategy for defeating the union-busting this to the union ranks. As workers ac­ is in need or new policies, as those prac­ drive. Their consciousness is uneven, and Vietnam and Kampuchea: quired more experience in struggle, they ticed by the current leadership are not few hold the anticapitalist perspective that an eyewitness report learned this fact firsthand. working. But top officials are quick to echo guided the leaderships in Minneapolis and A slide show and presentation In an effort to weaken the '34 strikes, the the bosses' claim that radical-minded Toledo in 1934. by Diane Wang government and the employers turned to a workers who propose a militant fight What those workers who are coming for­ shopworn antiunion tool: red-baiting. They against the companies are "communists." ward do have in common is a desire to sought to divide the union with charges that Such charges divide the unions and get in fight, to tap the power of the union move­ OHIO union leaders were "reds" - communists the way of the political debate and discus­ ment, and begin. to flex labor's muscle. Cleveland and socialists. sion on union strategy that is needed . . For these and other vanguard workers Sun., June 17, 3 p.m. 15105 St. Clair The employers use red-baiting - in Nevertheless, in_ differing forms and at the history of the 1934 strikes and a study Ave. Donation: $2. For more informa­ 1934 and today - to create the impression an uneven pace, that discussion of strategy of the books by Farrell Dobbs and Art Preis tion call (216) 451-6150. that, by the very nature of their political is beginning to develop. A small but im­ can be especially useful. The books offer views, socialists and communists are alien portant number of workers are trying to insights into what strategy the labor move­ PENNSYLVANIA to other workers. chart a course toward an effective fight­ ment needs to arm itself for coming battles. Pittsburgh In the context of the rising class struggle back strategy. This is key because, as Preis explained Sat., June 16, 7:30p.m. 141 S. Highland in 1934, this tactic failed~ As Dobbs ex­ · The most initial signs of the fightback it­ when his book was published in 1964: Ave . Donation: $2 . For more informa­ plained in Teamster Bureaucracy: self are beginning to emerge in events such "I don't want to knock the writing of his­ tion call (412) 362-6767. "The ranks were interested in the way as the Toledo auto workers battle, the tory - but making history is what really. the leaders fought, not in their politics. Be- Arizona copper strike, and the continuing counts." -IF YOU .LIKE THIS PAPER, LOOK US UP

Where to find the Socialist Workers Party, ILLINOIS: Chicago: SWP, YSA, 3455 S MISSOURI: Kansas City: SWP, YSA, · Box 261, Annex Station. Zip: 02901. Young Socialist Alliance, and socialist books Michigan Ave. Zip: 60616. Tel: (312) 326- 4715A Troost. Zip: 64110. Tel: (816) 753- TEXAS: Austin: YSA, c/o Mike Rose, 7409 and pamphlets 5853 or 326-5453. 0404. St. Louis: SWP, YSA, 3109 S. Grand, Berkman Dr. Zip: 78752. Tel. (512) 452-3923. ALABAMA: Birmingham: SWP, YSA, INDIANA: Bloomington: YSA, Activities #22. Zip: 63118. Tel: (314) 772-4410. Dallas: SWP, YSA, 2817 Live Oak. Zip: 205 18th St. S. Zip: 35233. Tel: (205) 323- Desk, Indiana Memorial Union. Zip: 47405 . NEW JERSEY: Newark: SWP, YSA, 141 75204. Tel: (214) 826-4711. Houston: SWP, 3079.· Indianapolis: SWP, YSA, 4850 N. College. Halsey. Zip: 07102. Tel: (201) 643-3341. YSA, 4806 Almeda. Zip: 77004. Tel: (713) ARIZONA: Phoenix: SWP, YSA, 17 E. Zip: 46205. Tel: (317) 283-6149. NEW YORK: Capital District (Albany): 522-8054. Southern Ave. (Centrai and Southern). Zip: IOWA: Des Moines: YSA, P.O. Box 1165. SWP, YSA, 352 Central Ave . 2nd floor. Zip: UTAH: Price: SWP, YSA, 23 S. Carbon 85040. Tel: (602) 268-3369. Zip: 50311. 12206. Tel: (518) 434-3247. New York: SWP, Ave., Suite 19, P.O. Box 758. Zip: 84501. Tel: CALIFORNIA: Bay Area District: 3808 KENTUCKY: Louisville: SWP, YSA, 809 YSA, 79 Leonard. Zip: 10013 . Tel: (212) 226- (801) 637-6294. Salt Lake.City: SWP, YSA, E 14th St., Oakland. Zip: 94601. Tel: (415) E. Broadway. Zip: 40204. Tel: (502) 587-8418. 8445 or 925-1668. 677 S. 7th East, 2nd Floor. Zip: 84102. Tel: 534-1242. Los Angeles: SWP, YSA, 2546 LOUISIANA: New Orleans: SWP, YSA, NORTH CAROLINA: Piedmont: SWP, (801) 355-1124. W. Pico Blvd. Zip: 90006. Tel: (213) 380- 3207 Dublin St. Zip:. 70118. Tel: (504) 486- YSA, 301 S. Elm St., Suite 522. Greensboro. · VIRGINIA: Tidewater Area (Newport 9460. Oakland: SWP, YSA, 3808 E 14th St. 8048. Zip: 27401. Tel: (919) 272-5996. News): SWP, YSA, 5412 Jefferson Ave., Zip Zip: 94601. Tel: (415) 261-3014. San Diego: MARYLAND: Baltimore: SWP, YSA, OHIO: Cincinnati: SWP, YSA, 4945 Pad­ 23605 . Tel: (804) 380-0133. SWP, YSA, 1053 15th St. Zip: 92101. Tel: 2913 Greenmount Ave. Zip: 2-1218 . Tel : (301) dock Rd. Zip: 45237. Tel: (513) 242-7161. WASHINGTON, D.C.: SWP, YSA, 3106 (619) 234-4630. San Francisco: SWP, YSA, 235-0013 . Baltimore-Washington District: Cleveland: SWP, YSA, 15105 St. Clair Ave . Mt. Pleasant St. NW. Zip: 20010. Tel: (202) 3284 23rd St. Zip: 941 10. Tel: (415) 282-6255. 2913 Greenmount Ave. Zip: 21218. Tel: (301) Zip: 44110. Tel: (216) 451-6150. Toledo: 797-7699. Baltimore-Washington District: San Jose: SWP, YSA, 46 1/2 Race St. Zip: 235-0013. SWP, YSA, 2120 Dorr St. Zip: 43607 . Tel: 2913 Greenmount Ave ., Baltimore, Md. Zip: 95126. Tel: (408) 998-4007. Seaside: SWP, MASSACHUSETTS: Boston: SWP, YSA, (419) 536-0383. 21218 . Tel : (301) 235-0013 . YSA, 1184 Broadway. Zip: 93955. Tel: (408) 5 10 Commonwealth Ave., 4th Floor. Zip: OREGON: Portland: SWP, YSA, 711 NW WASHINGTON: Seattle: SWP, YSA, 394-1855. 02215 . Tel : (617) 262-4621. Everett. Zip: 97209. Tel : (503) 222-7225. 5517 Rainier Ave . South. Zip: 98118. Tel: COLORADO: Denver: SWP, YSA, 126 MICHIGAN: Detmit: SWP, YSA, 7146 PENNSYLVANIA: Edinboro: YSA, Edin­ (206) 723-5330. W. 12th Ave. Zip: 80204. Tel: (303) 534-8954. W. McNichols. Zip: 48221. Tel: (313) 862- boro State College. Zip: 16444. Tel: (814) 734- WEST VIRGINIA: Charleston: SWP, FLORIDA: Miami: SWP, YSA, 663 Martin 7755. 4415. Philadelphia: SWP, YSA, 2744 Ger­ YSA, 1584 A Washington St. East. Zip: 25311. Luther King Blvd. (NW 62nd St.) Zip: 33150. MINNESOTA: Mesabi Iron Range: SWP, mantown Ave . Zip: 19133. Tel: (215) 225- Tel: (304) 345-3040. Morgantown: SWP, Tel: (305) 756-1020. Tallahassee: YSA, P.O. YSA, 112 Chestnut St., Virginia, Minn. 55792 . 0213. Pittsburgh: SWP, YSA , 141 S. High­ YSA, 957 S. University Ave . Zip: 26505. Tel: Box 20715 . Zip: 32316. Send mail to P.O. BoX: 1287. Zip: 55792. Tel : land Ave. Zip: 15206. Tel: (412) 362-6767. (304) 296-0055. GEORGIA: Atlanta: SWP, YSA, 504 Flat (218) 749-6327. Twin Cities: SWP, YSA, 508 State College: YSA, P.O. Box 464, Bel­ WISCONSIN: Milwaukee: SWP, YSA, Shoals Ave. SE. Zip: 30316. Tel: (404) 577- N. Snelling Ave., St. Paul. Zip: 55104 . .Tel: lefonte. Zip: 16823. Tel: (814)238-3296. 4707 W. Lisbon Ave. Zip: 53208 . Tel: (414) 4065. (612) 644-6325. RHODE ISLAND: Providence: YSA , P.O. 445-2076.

June 8, 1984 The Militant 13 -EDITORIALS·------Cops~ role as strikebreakers: Israeli gov't admits murder lessons frotn 1934 Substantial political pressure has forced an Israeli gov­ were exhumed and it was found that both had died of When members of the United Auto Workers in Toledo ernment retreat. It had to make a public admission of skull fractures "as·a result of a blow dealt to the back of took to the streets May 21 to challenge a.court injunction murderous conduct by its security cops. the head by a blunt instrument." limiting picketing at the struck AP Parts Auto Co., they On May 28, it was announced that two of four Pales- · The Israeli security cops are particularly notorious for were confronted by Toledo cops. Many workers initially tinians who had attempted to hold an Israeli bus hostage their brutality. This stems from a system that gives them tried to appeal to the police as "fellow workers" who had been killed after their capture. a free hand. could be won to support of the strike.. Initially, the government tried to cover up the crime. Within Israel, suspects can be detained up to 32 days, It didn't take long for the workers to discover that such But enough facts .leaked out, and public pressure was the first seven without seeing a lawyer. appeals to cops fall on deaf ears. Before the day was out strong enough, that it finally bowed and established a In the occupied West Bank, Palestinians can be held commission of inquiry, which officially confirmed what six months without trial and authorities have no obliga­ had happened. tion to let them see a lawyer the entire time. Since the 1982 invasion of Lebanon, antiwar sentiment The legal violence is coupled with extrai~gal violence. has been growing in Israel. Early in May, the government felt enough pressure to OUR A recent opinion poll found that 58 percent of the Is­ arrest 25 ultraright Jewish terrorists operating mainly in raeli people favor total immediate withdrawal of occupa­ the West Bank. REVOLUTIONARY tion forces from Lebanon. Another 37 percent favor They reportedly included one who confessed to the withdrawal under various conditions. One percent favor 1980 bombings in which two West Bank Arab mayors HERITAGE keeping the troops there. were permanently disabled. Others are said to have con­ Opposition to government policy has further deepened fessed firing into the campus of the Islamic University in as a result of the steady moving of Israeli settlers into the Hebron last July, killing three people and wounding 33. the unionists were forced to fight a pitched battle with the cops who went after them with tear gas, clubs, and pellet occupied West Bank of Jordan. Confessions were also reported in the planting of bombs guns. The brutal victimization of Palestinians has created re­ on five Arab-owned buses last April. As militant union actions in support of strikes and vulsion among many Israelis. And the continuing Arab Israeli President Herzog said those arrested were against union-busting increase, so too will the problem of resistance spurs a growing realization that there can never "mad." strike-breaking violence by the cops. be peace with occupation. Roy Isacowitz, of the Jerusalem Post, put it a lot more During the historic Minneapolis Teamster strikes in The hijacking of the Israeli bus was a case in point. accurately. · 1934, workers faced such cop violence often. On July Four Palestinians seized the bus April 12. They "The people who attempted ·to blow up the Arab 20, 1934, it exploded in a frenzy. Events that day, which threatened to blow it up with its 35 passengers u.nless 500 buses," he wrote, "are not 'good boys gone wrong.' They became known as "Bloody Friday," left two workers shot Palestinians were released from Israeli prisons. are not the bad apples in the cart, but the tastiest, freshest dead and 67 wounded. Most were shot in the back. Israeli forces stormed the bus, killing an Israeli woman apples of them all. It is the cart itself that is rotten." In Teamster Rebellion, the first of his four books on and wounding seven other passengers. Two of the Pales­ That is tlie bitter truth. But it is not just the cart carry­ the Minneapolis and Midwest Teamster struggles, strike tinians were killed and the other two removed from the ing the ultraright Jewish terrorists who occupy the West leader Farrell Dobbs offered some useful, concise lessons Bank. Their actions are in the long tradition of anti-Arab bus. about the role of the cops. Taken from the chapter titled, The army announced they "died on the way to the hos­ violence carried out by previous Zionist settlers of Pales­ "Bloody Friday," they are reprinted below. - pital." tine. It is the Israeli government itself that organizes the But an Israeli paper published a photo of one of the two military occupation of the West Bank and other Palestin­ men, handcuffed and under escort, walking from the bus. ian land. The government o{Yenly states that its objective * * * The government tried to stonewall, but more facts came is total annexation of the West Bank. Under capitalism the main police function is to break out. It was finally forced to act. More and more Israelis are learning from harsh experi­ strikes and to repress other forms of protest against the The commission of inquiry found the two had been ence that peace will be impossible as long as the rights policies of the ruling class. Any civic usefulness other taken alive and then killed by security cops. The bodies and land of the Palestinians are denied. forms of police activity may have, like controlling traffic and summoning ambulances, is strictly incidental to the primary repressive function. Personal inclinations of in­ dividual cops do not alter this basic role of the police. All must comply with ruling-class dictates. As a result, Stop the U.S. lies about MIAs police repression becomes one of tJ'te most naked forms through which capitalism subordinates human rights to Memorial Day 1984 was the occasion for yet another Neverthell:ss V(etham continues to devote substantial the demands. of private property. If the ,cops. sometimes hypoCritical outburst by the U.S. government concerning resources to attempting to locate the 2,491 U.S. Gls falter in their antisocial tasks, it is simply because they­ those U.S. Gls still listed as "missing in action" in Viet­ Washington says remain unaccounted for. "We have set like the guns they use - are subject to rust when not en­ nam. up a commission that oversees forensic specialists and gaged in the deadly function for which they are primarily At Arlington National Cemetery President Reagan , his search-squad teams that go out into villages to find out if trained. voice "choking with emotion," according to the New we can establish the presence of a U.S. MIA there," No police organization is exactly the same day in and York Times, called on the Vietnamese government to "re­ explained Pham Van Dong. day out. Two essential factors determine its character at a turn our sons to America." A problem, Pham Van Dong explained to News­ given moment: the social climate in which the cops have been operating and the turnover of personnel within the This performance by the "commander-in-chief' was week, is that "the villagers are not enthusiastic about force. An unseasoned cop may tend to be somewhat con­ another cynical abuse of the concerns of U.S. families helping us. " Edited out by the magazine was the Prime siderat!! of others in the performance of duty, especially whose sons' remains have never been recovered. Minister's explanation of why this is the case. Reagan's intention was to further fuel the fires of Wash­ while class relations are relatively peaceful. Even in such ington's campaign against Vietnam. In the full text released by the Vietnamese govern­ calm times, however, the necessary accommodation "First the U.S. had a hot war with us ," observed Viet­ ment, Pham Van Dong continued, '.''Why are you so must be made to capitalist demands, including readiness nam's Prime Minister Pham Van Dong in a May inter­ concerned about the U.S. dead when they came in planes to shoot anyone who tampers with private property. view with Newsweek. "Now it carries on a psychological to kill us,' they say. 'Why are you so concerned about Otherwise the aspiring cop, if he is not kicked out of the warfare against us using the MIA question." (This obser- . U.S. MIAs when the U.S. con~inues its hostile policy to­ force, will have little chance of rising beyond a beat in vation was edited out of the magazine's printed version wards Vietnam?'" the sticks. By gradually weeding out misfits along these of the interview.) Such attitudes on the part of the Vietnall}ese people are general lines, a police department can keep itself abreast In the interview Pham Van Dong reveals the truth that understandable and justifiable. It is a testimony to the of requirements during a more or less stable period in Washington wants to hide about what Vietnam is really humanitarian policies of the Vietnamese government that class relations. doing about the MIAs. it continues to search for U.S. MIAs. Such had been the case with the Minneapolis cops, "Vietnam considers the question . . . a humanitarian Washington's hypocritical campaign on this issue is whose strikebreaking experiences had long been limited issue," he explained. "During the past II years Vietnam simply further proof of its unrelenting hostility towards to occasional attacks on weak craft unions that were has returned to the United States all living Americans as Vietnam. The U.S. government is not honestly con­ poorly led. Then in 1934 a sharp tum occurred in the well as all remains of MIA' s and transmitted any relevant cerned about finding and identifying those men it sent to class struggle, and they were found to be less than com­ information we may have, without any conditions . .. " their deaths. Rather, the MIAs issue is only one more po­ petent in carrying out the harsh new tasks imposed upon said the Vietnamese Prime Minister. litical weapon imperialism is using to attack the example them by the bosses. To play the required role in the In every war the bodies of many who die are never re­ of the Vietnamese revolution, which succeeded in de­ changed alignment of class forces, the department had to covered. feating U.S. imperialist intervention. be drastically shaken up, and it was. When [Minneapolis Police Chief Michael J.] Johannes first issued riot guns to the cops, a few had declined to take them, and they were immediately suspended from the force. Another handful drew suspensions when they took the guns but refused to No justice in Salvador trial use them. Two or three went so far as to join in the shoot­ ing, and then probably appalled by the resultant carnage, With indecent haste, the U.S. House of Representa­ sources. The other defendants confirmed they had been turned in their guns and badges. Among those suspended tives voted May 24 to give $62 million in new military offered "U.S. money" if they confessed. was a captain of poljce, John Hart. Through this general aid to the Salvadora·n dictatorship. The vote came only The trial of the ·National Guardsmen marks the first shakeup the Minneapolis police force had become trans­ hours after five members of that country's National time that Salvadoran troops have been convicted for any formed into a body of uniformed killers who were ready to shoot strikers upon command. Guard were found guilty of murdering four U.S. church of the more than 40,000 civilians they have brutally mur­ •. women in December 1980. dered in the past few years. The one-day trial of the five guardsmen was carefully But instead of doing justice in the case of the church staged by the U.S. government. The evidence was pro­ women, what the trial represents is a cynical coverup of duced by the FBI. U.S. government lawyers "coordi­ the fact that Washington's puppet regime in San Salvador· nated"- in the words of one report- the prosecution's is nothing but a ruthless murder machine. five-hour presentation. U.S. embassy staff monitored the Given the worldwide revulsion at the brutal rape and whole proceeding. assassination of the four women, the Salvadorarf au­ The accused were represented by unpaid lawyers who, thorities and their superiors in Washington decided to in some cases, hadn'teven met with ~he person they were throw a few of their underlings to the wolves as representing before the day of the trial. Defense attorneys scapegoats. used only one hour of the five allotted to them. But the biggest criminals of all are the Democrats and One of the guardsmen who had earlier confessed re­ Republicans in Congress and the White House who are canted his confession during the trial, saying it had been using the conviction of the five to rush more guns and obtained through torture and offers of bribes from U.S. bullets to their murderous clients in El Salvador.

14 The Militant June 8, 1984 -LETTERS------I~IS ·rs J'OE, MY EMrLD'fEE • . RI6Hi-TO-WORK LAwS IHEY At.So GIVE MIM Tt{E HE 8et.IEV£S IN GIVf tUM :itfE RI6H:r l?t6Kf NOT fo PAY UNION Cuba and drugs? Marxists and Christians RIGHT-TO· WORK LAWS, NOi ro· :TOIN A OI)€S. WAAT OTtiER Rt,Jtn On May 6 the CBS Sunday What about an article on the co­ OON'T YOU, !OE? UNION. Po IHEY 6JV£ You, :roE_? morning program "Face the Na­ alition and partnership between \ tion," covered the issue of the Marxists and Christians in Latin \ I drug problem in the United States. America (not dialogue but partner­ Leslie Stahl mentioned the possi­ ship)? bility of official Cuban involve­ Would it not be the greatest ment or, at the very least, a few irony of the last half of this century corrupt officials in Cuba in the if Marxists freed the Bible for a drug trade. true reading of the scriptures, and This was repeated by Reagan in Christians were able to reinvigo­ his May 9 speech concerning Cen­ rate Marxists with a revolutionary tral America. vision and energy? The Militant should again cover Shalom. I~Y GIVE" ME Trfc IHEY ALSD 6lV£ MY 80SS ~E ALSO HAS Tt"!E Ed Loving this subject, including a response f?lbH'f io A W£A( UNION, TKf RIGHI HIG~R fROftfS RI6HI To StiUT' UP Atlanta, Georgia ro from Cuba. AND LESS 'f. Ai MY EXPENSe, AN() ... 0~ Sf fl~SD! I also feel the International Appreciate renewal Socialist Review should cover the \ concise history and role of or­ I was in the hospital and con­ / ganized crime in America. valescing for nine months and my Chris Wolford subscription expired. Salem, West Virginia I would appreciate a renewal. I enjoyed your paper very much. The older I get, the more I realize Comprehensive coverage the evil of capitalism. Under Car­ I have been a recipient of the ter and Reagan the system has got­ Militant for approximately five ten so much worse. years (thanks to the special pris­ M.C. Wilcox • oner fund), and I can assure you Mims, Florida that its coverage of domestic and decent job and joining the union. tions that can win real power, we Ronald Davidson, #76All66, international struggles is by far the 'Killing Floor' In her review of the TV docu­ And I was able. to feel their pain better think about how they should Attica Prison Special Housing Sol­ most comprehensive of any and anger when the weaknesses of respond in situations like this. itary Unit, Attica, N.Y., 14011. socialist paper I have read to date. drama "The Killing Floor," Carol Burke offers the lukewarm opin­ the unions put them in absolutely There's more than one way, after Other papers, socialist or other­ impossible situations. all, to cross a picket line. Right on wise, almost always cloud the is­ ion that if the broadcast "encour­ The Militant special prisoner ages more of us to learn from the . Secondly, on the political level, to "The Killing Floor" for making fund makes it possible to send sues in their analysis of the strug­ Burke dismisses the play as one­ that point. · gle between the forces of enslave­ history of the union ·movement, it reduced-rate subscriptions to will have served a useful pur- sided, offering only "a glimpse of Pete Seidman prisoners who can't pay for ment and the forces of freedom. the real historical forces and .is­ Milwaukee, Wisconsin However, this is not the case with pose." • them. To help out, send your "Usefulness" is a good way to sues." Perhaps. But this is a contribution to: Militant Pris­ the Militant. "glimpse" we rarely get. A Your analytical approach is judge the value of a tool, but an in­ Correction oner Subscription Fund, 14 sufficient standard by which to glimpse of how - if the labor The May 4 Militant printed a Charles Lane, New York, N.Y. much more vivid, rendering a movement fails to defend the clear line of thought, exposing the judge a work of art. I thought "The letter from a prisoner concerning 10014. Killing Floor" was not only an rights of Blacks :- the govern­ the issue of forced labor in Attica The letters column is an open monopoly capitalist class and their ment and labor-hating corpora­ agents for what they are. educational play -but also an im­ and other U.S. pri.sons. However a forum for all viewpoints on sub­ portant emotional experience. It tions can move right in and actu­ typographical error resulted in jects of general interest to our For these reasons I think it only ally win over sections of the Black fitting to send this note of praise to permitted me to see and feel his­ _printing the writer's prison readers. Please keep your letters tory through the eyes of the Black community to their union-busting number incorrectly, making it brief. Where necessary they will your staff for a job well done. projects. Reeducate to liberate. workers brought up to Chicago by more difficult to contact him. be abridged. Please indicate if A prisoner the meatpackers. I identified with If we're serious about trans­ Those interested in the prob­ you prefer that your initials be Kansas the hopes they had from getting a forming our unions into organiza- lems of prison labor may contact: used rather than your full name. GEthreatens union in '~actory of Future' scheme

BY RUSSELL DAVIS subject to discipline. inclined to accept it. Their view is that if date for U.S. Senate here. Gauvreau has LYNN, Mass. - Workers at the Gen­ All this had to be agreed to by June 8! the plan isn't accepted, the Lynn plant will explained that if the union accepts GE's de­ eral Electric plant here are facing a serious GE said that if Local 201 did not agree, it not remain "competitive." mands it will undermine the wages and attack by the company. It involves a GE would build its new plant at a nonunion GE But as one worker pointed out, "GE has working conditions of all workers in the proposal to build a $51 million "Factory of factory in New Hampshire. profited off the sweat of our parents and electrical and aerospace industries. It will the Future." As news filtered into the shop about the grandparents in Lynn for almost 100 years" put the ,union in a weaker position in its This is just the latest move in GE' s plan proposal, workers were outraged at GE's and owes workers here a decent job.·Other 1985 contract talks with GE . . to modernize its plant here and increase crude blackmail. Most wanted nothing to workers have explained that accepting a The discussion is continuing both on the productivity at the expense ofGE workers. do with GE's high-tech sweatshop, though 12-hour day would set the union back 50 shop floor and in the union as GE's dead­ The 8,500 GE workers, 6,000 of whom a few liked the idea of fewer workdays per years. line nears. are in the giant Lynn Riverworks, are or­ week. Another problem has been pointed to by ganized by International Union of Electri­ Some local union officials here are also Christine Gauvreau, a member of Local Russell Davis is a member of JUE Local cal Workers (IUE) Local 201. The plant critical C!f aspects of the proposal but seem 201 and the Socialist Workers Party candi- 201 at Lynn Riverworks. makes aircraft engines and steam turbines and has had relatively few layoffs recently, due to the big increase in military spending from which GE reaps enormous profits. How Vietnam's drug rehabilitation Works The aircraft division, which is almost all military production, has seen dramatic Continued from Page 5 "When the people here were using in them." modernization lately with the widespread the West," Van noted. "There they cure drugs, many committed crimes against Once students have work to stabilize introduction of computerized machine drug addiction by substituting a different their family or society, who then reject their personal economic situation and nor­ tools and production control systems. One addiction. We do not use other drugs. But them. I think that many wanted very much mal relations with. their families, they are effect has been the transformation of even so, we have had no deaths whatSoever to stop, but it was difficult once the;r fam­ able to leave the school. They have full po­ machinist jobs into that of "machine in our treatment." ily and society had given up on them. So litical rights in society, Van stressed. operator." We toured the medical facility to see . they sank deeper into drug use. The school also carries on a number of In the turbine division, automation has what is used. The school has a number of "To cure them from psychological de­ artistic and cultural activities. Drama been used to cut piece rates under which airy buildings around a well-kept garden. pendency we have to restore the love and groups from the school have won awards in workers were able to make several dollars Dr. Tran The Hang was administering .belief from their family and society." city and national competition in 1982 and an hour extra. In one building, 66B, there acupuncture to a 28-year-old patient who Classes at the school stress respect for 1983. was a two-month slowdown, which re­ had arrived two days earlier. The work, explain the role of the individual in The drama projects are not only rehabili­ sulted in some gains but did not solve the acupuncture treatments reduce pain and in­ the family and society, and teach hatred of tation for the students, Van said. "We con­ problem. ,somnia, the doctor explained. drug dealers. sider art and culture a weapon to fight drug GE said in early May that it would build On the porch outside, a dozen students Family visits are arranged every week. dealers here, to appeal to the population to the "Factory of the Future" in Lynn if the were doing exercises, another major fea­ The key to the program is vocational defeat the drug dealers. When we have no union agreed to several non-negotiable, ture of the treatment. Acupuncture, exer­ training. We visited a number of work­ more dealers, people will have a chance." conditions. The proposed factory would cise, massage, cool water, and herbal shops where students were sewing, doing Although the worst of the heroin trade employ lQO workers who would do the job medicine take the place of methadone ,or carpentry, making guitars' or sandals. The left with the U.S. occupation forces and of 200 current aircraft workers. The condi­ drugs in Vietnam's drug rehabilitation pro­ products are sold to the state to help fi­ former U.S. puppet regime, opium is still tions were: gram. nance the school. Students receive incen­ smuggled into Vietnam and creates a prob­ • Mandatory 12-hour shifts. The fac­ It may take one week to a month for ad­ tive wages to help restore confidence in lem. tory would run seven days a week and the dicts to overcome the initial pain of with­ themselves and pride in their work. Yet Vietnam's real progress against drug workweek would be 36 hours one week drawal. Patients who leave at that stage are "The teachers and doctors have to have a addiction is quite a contrast to the United and 48 hours the next, for an average of 42 sure to come back later, Van said. "We sincere love and confidence for these States. The drug trade is now a $900 billion hours. There would· be no overtime pay if must cure the psychological dependency people," Van said. "Their attitude has to a year business in the United States. · your work day fell on Saturday or Sunday. too. rekindle the students' spirit. Vietnam's socialist revolution made it • Compression of rates into two general "The people who were addicted say that "And you can see the result," Van said possible to start constructing a society de­ maintenance rates and two rates for pro­ the drugs made them feel a real euphoria, as we continued our tour. "We have only voted to solving social problems instead of duction workers who would be called "sta­ which they miss. How can we replace that 37 people on staff here. We have no police making profits. It opened the door to ad­ gers." wonderful feeling?" Van explained. or guns. But we have I ,000 students. The vancing human solidarity and self-respect. • Work pace set by computers, with "To be healthy, people need human rela­ security and services are all done by the That is clearly the prerequisite for success­ those unable to meet production standards tions and work," Van said. students themselves, showing we believe ful drug rehabilitation.

June 8, 1984 The Militant 15 THEMILITANT Black unionists hit antilabor drive Convention takes up elections, war, Black and labor rights

BY MOHAMMED OLIVER worse tragedies will be suffered by the CINCINNATI - How to combat the people of this nation unless we unite to· U.S. employers' anti-working-class drive boot Ronald Reagan out of the White was the central discussion among the more House in November.'' than 650 Black trade unionists who Lucy said that Blacks and other workers gathered here at the 13th annual convention should support Democratic presidential of the Coalition of Black trade Unionists candidate Walter Mondale "because his (CBTU). The convention · took place May views and vision for America are compati­ 25...:.28. ble with the needs of the American The CBTU was founded in September people.'' 1972 to gamer Black ~upport for Demo­ Lucy and other top-ranking Black trade cratic presidential candidate George union officials had announced in February McGovern. This was in opposition to the the formation of the AFL-CIO United AFL-CIO leadership, which gave back­ Black Labor in 1984 Committee, which handed support to Richard Nixon. was founded to win support for Mondale. Since its founding the CBTU has worked The.CBTU delegates, however, were over­ to advance the position of Black workers in whelmingly supporters of Jesse Jackson's . society, as well as winning more Black bid for the Democratic Party's nomination representation within the leadership bodies - a fact that Lucy had to deal with in his of the trade union movement. The organi­ address. zation has also gone on record in support of "My hat is off and my heart goes out to affirmative action and other measures Jesse Jackson," said Lucy. "He has aimed at protecting Black workers. changed forever the nature of politics in Convention -.delegates came from all this country . .. . Without question his ac­ over the country . New York 's contingent tivity has produced the enthusiasm and has . MtlitaJIUlll1otlarnlme:d Oliver been the catalyst for thousands of new vot­ was the largest, numbering some 300 William Lucy, president of the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists, addressing the people. Black activists from more than 60 ers throughout the country." group's convention. Black workers, hit hardest by capitalist assault, discussed how to But, e?'plained Lucy, this strengthening union locals attended the gathering. The fight back. largest union contingent was from the of the Democratic Party now needs to be American Federation of State, County and directed toward the "overriding priority of Municipal Employees (AFSCME). Of the tions faced by Black workers in her coun­ wages , standard of living, and trade union 1984 . .. getting Ronald Reagan out of the big industrial unions the United Auto try . Marc Stepp, vice-president of the rights. They have been hardest hit by the White House.'' Workers (UA W) and United Steelworkers UA W and a member of CBTU's national capitalist offensive- and many CBTU ac­ Lucy and other top Black labor officials of America (USW A) had the largest dele­ executive council , gave a short speech tivists have been in the forefront of work­ share this perspective with the trade union gations. blasting U.S. support to apartheid. ing-class fightbacks against the bosses. bureaucracy as· a whole. This outlook Women, who made up nearly half of the The U.S. war in El Saivador also came One of the most important of such bat­ keeps Blacks and other workers tied to the delegates, played an important part in the under fire here. William Lucy, interna­ tles taking place today is between the own­ employers' parties and government. It's an convention. On May 25 the CBTU spon­ tional secretary-treasurer of AFSCME and ers of AP Parts and UAW Local 14 in To­ obstacle to the independent mobilization sored a conference for Black trade union the CBTU's president, scored ·the employ­ ledo. Local 14 Is an amalgamated local and organization of the working class - its women. This is the first time such an event ers' mounting war in Central America. In with workers from several plants. (See arti­ real source of political power. was an official part of a CBTU convention. his keynote address to the · convention, cle on page 2.) Henry McCoy is a- member An independent working-class perspec­ The women unionists discussed their Lucy explained that in El Salvador Wash­ of Local14's General Motors Hydraumatic tive is what workers and farmers need. threefold oppression as Blacks, women, ington engineered "phony elections won by division and the statewide head of CBTU Only a small handful of socialist workers and workers. They took up the need for af­ a phony president and then held a phony in Ohio. When Toby Emmerich ap­ attending the CBTU convention advanced firmative action, comparable pay for com­ murder trial" all aimed at providing cover proached him at the Michigan-UA W this working-class alternative. They sold parable worth, and passage of the Equal for increased aid to "the military dictator­ caucus meeting about seeking support for over 50 copies of the Militant and had . Rights Amendment. ship that still runs El Salvador today." the AP Parts strikers, McCoy thought ·it many informal discussions that showed the Addie Wyatt, the international vice­ was a good idea. Emmerich is an . auto openness to socialist ideas among workers That money , said Lucy, should be spent worker at the Jeep plant in Toledo and a today. president of the United Food and Commer­ on much needed social programs here in cial Workers who heads the CBTU's member of U AW Local 12. the United States. McCoy, Emmerich, and Omari Musa­ women's committee, explained the impor­ Lucy also explained the history of the tance of these and other women's rights is­ a member of the United Rubber Workers CBTU supports U.S. rulers' offensive, beginning with the who lives in Cleveland- sold nearly 100 sues to Black women unionists. In her talk government and employers crushing of the at the CBTU women's conference, Wyatt strike support buttons at the caucus meet­ Professional Air Traffic Controllers' strike ing. Toledo auto strike detailed the history of the Coalition of in 1981 and going through the recent Labor Union Women and urged everyone Later, Emmerich, McCoy, and Otis The following resolution was adopted · strikes at Continental Airlines and Grey­ Green- another member of UAW Local .to join that organization in addition to the hound. He also pointed to the ongoing cop­ unanimously at the 13th annual conven­ CBTU. 14 - spoke with national CBTU leaders tion of the Coalition of Black Trade The CBTU convention itself also dis­ per miners strike against Phelps Dodge in about a resolution on the AP Parts strike. In Arizona and the striking hotel workers in Unionists, which took place in Cincin­ cussed important social, economic, and an important show of solidarity, the CBTU nati, Ohio, May 25-28: political issues. For example, U.S. support Las Vegas. convention adopted a resolution supporting of the apartheid regime in South Africa was He explained that workers "must pursue the striking auto workers. (Reprinted on The Coalition of Black Trade Unionists the topic of an entire afternoon workshop. to the fullest our basic and fundamental this page.) (CBTU) publicly records its support of Convention delegates heard from a woman trade union rights·." After correctly pinpointing many of the United Auto Workers (UAW) Local 14 leader of the South African Black Munici­ Black workers have firsthand experience problems facing unionists today, Lucy said representing over 400 unionized workers at pal Workers Union, who described condi- with the employer attacks on workers' in his keynote speech that "More and even AP Parts plant in Toledo,- Ohio. AP Parts management has openly at­ tempted to bust Local 14 through layoffs, discipline and harassment of remaining workers, and other antiunion tactics, in­ Haitians rebel against cops and hunger cluding the hiring of a private "goon" squad to help scabs and management pass BY ELLEN KRATKA Down with poverty! Down with Duvalier!" crowd, according to all reports, was not the striking workers. Additionally, neither At the end of May a rebellion erupted in Those who crossed the police barricades very receptive to them. the National Labor Relations Board (which Gonaives, the fifth-largest city in Haiti. Its surrounding the building were clubbed The troops then dispersed the crowd by ruled that AP was not guilty of unfair labor immediate cause was the public beating of with rifle butts. firing machine guns. An unknown number practices) nor the courts (which through in­ a pregnant woman by police on May 21. ' A lawyer in Gonaives interviewed-by the were wounded and several killed. The next junction, have limited the number of pick­ . The woman later died of her injuries. Times said of the march, "There were no day the government imposed a 9 p.m. to ets) appear to be sympathetic to the work­ This incident of police brutality was but leaders. It was a people's revolt. Food dawn curfew. ers . the latest in a long series of such cases. It prices go up every day and their tiny in­ From the point of view of the U.S. rul­ The U A W workers in opposing manage­ took place in a context of worsening pov­ come remains the same." ers, the Haitian regime has long been one ment's final contract offer which called for erty, rising food prices, and stepped-up of its most reliable allies in the Caribbean a $5.84 pay cut and relinquishment of most Many were beaten and arrested as the government repression of the masses of region. Rebellions against the current seniority rights , has engaged in organized cops tried to repel the crowd. A school Haitian workers and farmers. Haiti is the Duvalier - Jean-Claude succeeded his and peaceful battle against the weakening teacher commented, "No one knows how poorest country in this hemisphere, and the father in 1971 - have been rare during his of industrial unions . many have been arrested. They beat them, regime of Jean-Claude Duvalier is known 13-year rule. Management's disruption of small parts then send them home." The revolt con­ as one of the most repressive in the world. In the hopes of keeping things that way, shops sets an increasing threat in larger Long-simmering anger at the govern­ tinued through the week. Washington sends aid to the Duvalier dic­ unionized plants . l,.JA W has been joined in ment exploded the day of the beating. Ac­ By the following Thursday, Duvalier tatorship to the tune of some $55 million a its fight by other unionists, civil rights and cording to the New York Times, people as­ had sent in-troops from the capital, Port-au­ year, while here in the United States, im­ women's organizations, and other groups. sembled spontaneously for a march on Prince, to bolster the local paramilitary migration cops brutalize the thousands of CBTU urges a quick and just solution to police headquarters. The mass demonstra­ force. Three government officials spoke Haitians .fleeing their homeland and deny the concerns of the workers and the protec­ tion demanded, "Down with hunger! and tried to calm people down. But the them political asylum. tion of workers' rights and benefits.

16 The Militant June 8, 1984