sign in sign up
<<
Home , Henry Ford Bridge, Kamala Harris

Published by the International Longshore and Warehouse Union

www.ilwu.org VOL 77, NO 8 • SEPTEMBER 2019

THE INSIDE NEWS

LETTERS TO DISPATCHER 2

Harry Bridges statue inspires a new generation 6

TRANSITIONS 8

BOOKS & VIDEO 8

Candidate interviews: The ILWU International Executive Board met with Senators Kamala Harris, and at the meeting on August 23 in . Invitations were extended to all of the candidates running for the Democratic nomination. Additional candidates are invited to December Board meeting. Presidential candidates 40th Annual Wilmington Labor Day Parade and Picnic page 3 meet ILWU Executive Board hree top contenders run- encouraged to hold their own meet- Another brother got a union job, and ning for U.S. President ings for members to discuss the can- became a life-long union member. Tmet with ILWU Interna- didates and issues. “At every town hall meeting, I tional Executive Board members Elizabeth Warren goes first always tell people that unions built America’s middle-class and they will in August. Senators Elizabeth After thanking International re-build America’s middle class.” Warren, Bernie Sanders and President Willie Adams and Board Kamala Harris each took sev- members for the invitation to appear, Beating the odds to teach eral hours from their busy Warren launched into her fast- “I wanted to become a teacher, paced overview of the problems schedules to sit down with the but our family had no money to facing America’s working families. pay for a college application, let Board, give short presentations She explaining that her views were alone four years of tuition, so I got and answer questions from shaped by growing-up in a working- a scholarship but then got married union members on August 22 class family of six, “…on the ragged and dropped-out at 19. I later went and 23. edge of the middle class in Oklahoma, to a community college that cost $50 Their appearances resulted from where my dad sold fencing and car- a semester where I got my teaching an invitation extended by Interna- peting – then ended-up as a janitor degree and taught children with spe- tional President Willie Adams, who - with my mom working a minimum cial needs, which I loved.” wage at Sears. Both had no unions said he was pleased that three lead- Teaching law, studying business ing candidates made it a priority to to protect them, so we went through some hard times,” she explained. Her first year of teaching was attend. “We’re hoping that others successful, but brief, because her will be able to attend our next Exec- Working-class family struggles principal made her to quit after she utive Board meeting in December, She recounted that when her became pregnant. Before long, War- including former Senator ,” father suffered a heart attack, he lost ren got childcare help from a relative said Adams. his job and the medical bills almost and was able to attend state college The visits are part of a new effort cost their family to lose their home and get a law degree. She taught law to involve more union members in and station wagon. students and studied how companies the endorsement process by pro- All three of her older broth- made money, used the tax system viding more information about the ers served in the military, including and passed laws to favor investors candidates. Local unions have been one who spent five years in Vietnam. and the wealthy. continued on page 4 Postmaster: Send address changes to The Dispatcher, 1188 Franklin St., San Francisco, CA 94109-6800. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Dispatcher, DISPATCHER • September 2019 1 LETTERS TO THE DISPATCHER UAW solidarity outreach Dear Editor, The issue of robotics, AQMD regulations, and efficiency at Pier 400 is only the most recent and public excuse for attacking working people, their union voice, and our collective communities, state and U.S.A.! The daily news reports that “we” have full employment in the USA today. Not True....political rhetoric, not realistic. Many people in Southern are working two or three part-time, minimum wage jobs to pay rent, extended families share apartment space, students live in their cars, people with jobs live in cars, with children, other young families live with partners. Management at Pier 400 blame the ILWU for their plan to automate. Another “Red Herring”. The words “automate” or Robotics, does not identify the type of automation intended. We all want clean air, no one wants cancer, asthma, C.O.P.D. all of which is rampant in port work and community environ- ments. The selection of the automatic equipment and processes to be imple- mented are not consistent with the public versage itorated in its offence or defense by Pier 400 representatives and some legislators. Automation, robots, can and must serve humans, not replace humans, if so designed. Robots, as planned will, in addition to replacing longshore workers, replace supervisor, managers, caterers, vendors, effect city and state taxes, federal taxes, Social Security, health care, medication access and availability, electrical workers, machinists, civil service employees, police, fire department, emergency services, gas stations, local stores, credit unions, pot hole repairs, alley cleanup, and, many small businesses. What will be left?!! Twenty-five years ago, our communities were filled with people who made things, contributed by their labor and their ability to purchase com- modities, take care of their families and extended families, and give back to others. Today L.A. County has only identified 60,000 homeless. This number is an understated quota of the devastation of the ’ previously employed workforce that made autos, steel, aircraft, tires, garments, tools, rubber products, food products, again—and then we exported goods! Look around in the U.S.A. the “rust belt”, Baltimore, Detroit, and yes, Los Angeles and Long Beach, Wilmington, San Pedro, Compton, Watts, Hawthorne, Gardena, Inglewood ..... Choices will be made by those currently with authority to affect the lives of longshore workers, port workers, and lower level managers currently depen- dent on an economic infrastructure that includes human workers, resources, and an interdependent outlook for our communities and state. Greed is a disease. It is myopic and dangerous, self-serving with benefits limited to a few. Newton’s 3rd Law of Motion, with every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. In plain English-karma-what goes around comes around in some way, in time. Hopefully the decision makers will realize before it is too late, the wrong decision will leave the mess to their kids and ours to survive. They must have the integrity and the courage to stand with working people and our commu- nities, before they declare they don’t know what happened. What will be next? What company will automate and say they can’t compete with Pier 400, and then what? Although Vanderbilt, Rockefeller, Ford, Morgan, and Carnegie are revered as visionaries and heroes, they accomplished nothing alone, and as their workforces formed unions to attempt to balance democracy in America, the middle, really working class people of America, had a voice for the first time, on numerous subjects, education, Social Security, pensions, health care, equal rights, voting rights, child care and yes, better wages, safety at work, job security.... And a future at the time and, as we look at the , and and , we must thank the International Longshore and Warehouse Union for the hard work of their members each day, and the Teamsters, and the railroad workers, the pile driver, the iron workers, the machinists, the laborers, the electrical workers, the port pilots, port police, and their unions, without whom there would not be the ports of L.A./ L.B, , Henry Ford Bridge, General Desmond Bridge current, and forthcoming. Robots couldn’t have done this. You will protect your future when you protect ours. Public sector training: On August 16th the ILWU International and the Luisa Gratz, President, Local 26 Inlandboatmen’s Union held a one-day training for ILWU and IBU locals that rep- Secretary-Treasurer, Southern California District Council resent public sector workers. The training covered membership mobilization and engagement after the Supreme Court’s decision in Janus v. AFSCME. Attendees Send your letters to the editor to: The Dispatcher, 1188 Franklin St., included ILWU International Secretary-Treasurer Ed Ferris and IBU Secretary- San Francisco, CA 94109-6800 or email to [email protected] Treasurer Terri Mast.

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

2 DISPATCHER • September 2019 40th Annual Wilmington Labor Day Parade attracts thousands everal thousand union “We are here to send a message members, families com- that workers are not going to be for- munity supporters came gotten. We need to be included as we S move forward,” Familathe said. “We out to celebrate the ruby an- need a just transition with new tech- niversary of the Harbor Labor nology and automation. Robots don’t Coalition’s annual Labor Day pay taxes and don’t shop in the local Parade and Picnic. The event was community.” the brain-child of ILWU Local 26 The parade was led by the ILWU President Luisa Gratz. The Har- Southern California Pensioners who bor Labor Coalition was formed followed behind the Color Guard. The by Gratz along with then newly pensioners rode on a flatbed truck and elected Local 13 Executive Board tossed candy to hundreds of children and families who lined Avalon Blvd to member Dave Arian, David watch the parade. Thousands of union O’Day, Regional Coordinator for members marched with motorcycle the Inlandboatmen’s Union and clubs, marching bands, classic cars, Diane Middleton. Their goal was and low-riders. The march ended in to fight the Crowley Maritime Wilmington’s Banning Park where fire- from bringing a substandard fighters cooked over 5,000 hot dogs. contract from their tugboat Sno-cones, cold sodas and popsicles awaited the marchers as they streamed Sounding off on automation: Many ILWU members held up signs pro- operation in Florida to the Ports testing the increased use of automation in Southern California ports. into the park. Live music was provided of LA and Long Beach. by the Brian Young Blues Station and In 1979 the Harbor Labor Coali- The Topics. A special section of the tion started the Labor Day Parade and park was set aside for kids with games, Picnic as a demonstration of solidar- face painting, and other activities. ity and labor unity. What started as The absence of former ILWU Inter- a small parade and picnic with a few national President Dave Arian was felt hundred union members 40 years ago, throughout the parade and picnic. The has grown to become the largest Labor 2014 Los Angeles Poet Laureate Luis Day event west of the Mississippi River. Rodriguez recited a poem he wrote The day began at 7:30 am with an honoring Dave, who passed away ear- egg, sausage, and pancake breakfast lier this year. The poem, Show Up, at the Longshoremen’s Memorial Hall captured the spirit and passion embod- sponsored by the Southern California ied by Dave’s life-long commitment to Pensioners Club. The meal fed an esti- fighting for social and economic justice. mated 1,500 people. During the break- Ray Familathe and Luisa Gratz fast, federal, state and local elected were among the speakers at the picnic. officials were given an opportunity to Shipscalers: Members from ILWU Local 56 Shipscalers marched in the parade Local 13 pensioner and PCPA Poet with their banner. speak to the crowd before heading over Laureate, Jerry Brady, recited one of the assembly point for the Labor Day his poems. Gratz spoke about the Parade on Broad and E Streets. threat of automation and other attacks The parade was kicked-off by a on labor. She urged everyone in atten- short press conference the included dance to take the energy present at the ILWU Local 13 President Ray Fami- event and channel it into an on-going lathe, PCPA Pensioner President Greg organizing effort. Mitre, Congresswoman Nanette Bar- “We cannot just get together one ragán, Congressman , day a year. Let this be a beginning. Congressman and LA Think about what you are going to do County Supervisor . tomorrow make unions stronger and Familathe addressed the issue of keep up the spirit of solidarity that we automation and technology that is have here today,” Gratz said. affecting workers in virtually every sector of the economy, including long- shore, maritime, and warehousing.

Second place trophy: ILWU Local 13 President Ray Familathe (left) with ILWU pensioner Jerry Brady who accepted the second-place trophy for “Best Float” in the parade.

Recognizing Luisa Gratz: ILWU Local 26 President Luisa Gratz, one of the co-founders the Wilm- ington Labor Day March and Picnic, spoke at the rally against automa- tion, the need for solidarity and the importance of organizing. Gratz was thanked at the event for originating the idea of the march 40 years ago.

Auxiliary raffle: ILWU Auxiliary 8 raffled- off prizes at Banning Park to raise funds to support their work helping the union.

DISPATCHER • September 2019 3 Presidential candidates meet ILWU Executive Board rupted by the wealthy and powerful, Endangered pension plans instead of serving the majority of Amer- Local 26 President and Board icans,” a problem she sees at the root member Luisa Gratz asked about pro- cause of many conflicts in America. tecting pensions. Warren said that she Gridlock in U.S. Senate understood the problem because two of her own family members depend Adams also asked Warren how she on pensions, along with and would deal with Senator Mitch McCo- Social Security in order to survive. She nnell, the Senate Majority leader who recounted how the federal government has used his power to block legislation was quick to -out Wall Street with in Congress. Warren said one strat- $700 billion in loans after they nearly egy has been to change the balance bankrupted the country – and caused of power in the Senate by directing millions of to lose homes resources from her own Senate re-elec- and savings. At the same time, pension tion campaign to support other House funds were allowed to go insolvent and and Senate candidates who are willing drastically slash benefits for retirees. “We to stand-up for working Americans. Working class family: Senator Elizabeth Warren told of her family’s struggle did it for the banks and we can damn- She added that her presidential cam- with debt and dead-end jobs in Oklahoma. well do it for pensioners,” she said. paign had rejected expensive media continued from page 1 remarks. “The way I see it, you don’t buys in favor of investing in grassroots Role of religion get what you don’t fight for. And I’m organizers, believing they can better Hawaii longshore leader Dustin “Why I’m in this fight” in this fight because I believe we can support worker-friendly candidates Dawson asked the candidate to talk “I’m running because I’ve seen how build a better America if we do.” “down the ballot.” about religion and its role in society. our federal government has worked Warren said she grew up in the Meth- Warren answers questions Climate change better and better for the wealthy and odist Church where she was a Sunday Secretary-Treasurer Ed Ferris asked well-connected – and kicked dirt in the Asked whether her message appeals School teacher who read stories from Warren what she would do about face of everyone else. That’s why I’m in to a broad enough audience to win the Bible to teach good values to chil- climate change. She responded by this fight. I’m in it to build a grassroots next November, Warren responded dren. She said her favorite Bible pas- expressing support for the “Green New movement to take on the corruption in that she’s visited 26 states plus Puerto sage is Matthew 25:31-46, because it Deal,” a plan to transition from fos- Washington and change the structure Rico, including many where a majority emphasizes the need to care for one sil fuel to renewable sources, creat- of our economy to deal with big, inter- supported . She cited a another, and then quoted the text: “I ing a million new jobs and protecting national corporations that aren’t loyal recent visit to the town of Kermit, West was hungry and you gave me food, workers impacted during the change- to workers or this country, and have Virginia – a former Trump stronghold I was thirty and you gave me drink, I over. She would also end the practice too much power,” she said. where 80% backed the President. The was a stranger and you welcomed me, of giving public land to private oil and town’s population of only 302 is noto- I was naked and you clothed me, I was More power for workers gas companies for drilling and min- rious because drug companies shipped ill and you cared for me, I was in prison Vice President Bobby Olvera, Jr., ing. She said fighting climate change 9 million opiate pills to one pharmacy and you visited me.” She concluded by told Warren that newly-organized requires a global strategy, noting “the there during a 24-month period. War- saying, “I think that means God is in all workers were in the Board room with U.S. is directly responsible for about ren said the audience at her Kermit of us, and calls on us to act.” Despite her, and that many more wanted 20% of the problem, but believes “we town-hall included some who wore her strong religious background, she to join the union, but faced brutal have to help the other 80% succeed or Trump shirts and hats, but many of says America is a diverse country with opposition from employers. Warren we won’t be able to save the planet.” them came over to her side after hear- many different beliefs and faiths, so she responded, “To get more power and Warren says the global market for new ing how the wealth tax could help their strongly backsthe tradition of separat- structural change in the economy, we energy technology has been estimated community. She said her campaign is ing church and state. need to make it easier to join unions, putting down strong roots in Wiscon- at $23 billion – so she wants to see and we need to give unions more sin, Pennsylvania and Michigan where more U.S. investment in green research Bernie comes roaring back power when they negotiate. I’ve said she has hired a small army of field orga- and development, but would require Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders that in 128 town hall meetings that nizers and attracted a diverse group of companies that benefit from that R&D was the next to appear and opened by we’ve held so far, and I’ve personally supporters. to produce their goods in America. She warmly thanking the ILWU for endors- said it to 50,000 people - plus many says that policy could generate over 1 ing him in 2016, when he won 23 Immigration more who’ve watched my videos.” million good-paying union jobs. states and 43% of delegates, including Asked about Immigration, Warren Wealth tax on richest 1/10th of 1% Health care for all the key states of Wisconsin and Michi- recounted her recent visit to the bor- gan, before conceding the race and “I also say that it’s time for a wealth Warren responded to a question der, where she saw men, women and supporting . tax on the richest 1/10th of one-per- children being held in cages – noting about health care from Coast Benefits cent of people who can afford to pay 2 one cage was filled with nursing Specialist John Castanho, explaining Young people embrace Bernie cents on every dollar that would gener- mothers. Warren said she supports an that her Medicare-For-All plan will Before beginning his stump speech, ate enough money for universal child- immigration policy that expands legal cover everyone and let them choose Sanders offered a final reminder about care for infants through age 6; enough immigration, provides a path to citi- and retain their providers – while sav- his 2016 bid: “We won more votes for universal Pre-K schools for every 3 zenship for immigrants already in the ing money by ending the insurance last time from young people than Hill- and 4-year old; enough to raise wages country, ending private profit-making industry’s unnecessary duplication, ary and Trump combined.” He added for every childcare and pre-K worker detention facilities, halting the prac- waste and profit. continued on page 5 in this country; enough to pay for trade tice of breaking-up immigrant families schools, technical schools and public in order to inflict pain, and requiring college tuition – and enough left over border enforcement personnel to to cancel student loan debt for about uphold the law, prevent abuse and be 95% of kids. We could also provide more accountable. more support for historically Black colleges – and still have $100 billion Future work and technology left to help fight the opioid drug crisis President Adams asked Warren that’s killing thousands of our brothers to share her ideas about the future of and sisters out there.” work in light of new technology and automation. Wide-ranging support “I think the future of work is tied Warren says her wealth tax is both to the future of taxation because those necessary – and practical – because it taxes will determine where our society has support from people across politi- will make investments. Right now the cal lines with Democrats, Indepen- system encourages investment in auto- dents and Republicans – all backing mation instead of people,” she said. her wealth tax proposal. “The reason that happens is because “I’m not somebody who backs the system today is controlled and cor- Supporting union organizing: Senator Warren stood with San Francisco down,” she said as she concluded her Veterinary care workers at VCA/Mars—a company that has been fighting union members.

4 DISPATCHER • September 2019 if it benefits workers – but we can be anti-technology if it throws workers out on the street. I am opposed to compa- nies coming in and throwing workers out on the street with new technology. That is absolutely unacceptable. On the other hand, if I can cut ten hours from your work week, and you’re doing bet- ter, I don’t think that’s unacceptable. We have to make technology work for workers, not just the people who own the company. Overcoming divisiveness Vice President Bobby Olvera Jr., asked Sanders what could be done to heal the many divisions and divisive- ness that have become the norm in American politics. Sanders replied, “let’s be clear, there’s always been rac- ism in America. There’s always been Strong appeal: Senator Bernie Sanders explained how his “Medicare for All” plan would help working Americans and union members. sexism in America. There’s always been anti-immigrant feelings. Trump didn’t his view that no candidate could win check. That means you get sick, you about each other, that we don’t step invent those things, but his political against Trump without an energetic can’t afford to see a doctor. If your car over people living in the street, that strategy is to get me to hate you, and campaign that motivates young people breaks down and need $500 to fix it, we don’t ignore the fact that life-expec- you to hate her, etc. We need a Pres- and working class voters. then you can’t get to work and you lose tancy in now declining in America.” ident whose words and actions can your job. After 45 years, how much Hard-hitting style It will take a movement unify the country. Because we’re all in better is the average worker doing? it together. This is a nation of immi- Sanders delivered his strong, pro- “To transform this country will The answer is zero. The top 1% has grants, and unless you’re native Ameri- union message with the same direct require an unprecedented grassroots seen a 21 trillion-dollar increase in can, we all came from somewhere – and hard-hitting style that inspired movement to change the power struc- their wealth – while the bottom half some came freely, some came in chains union members, young people and ture – and the trade union movement of Americans have seen a $900 mil- – but we all came from somewhere else. working families four years ago. Some needs to be at the center of that move- lion-dollar decrease. We have massive The other way to unify the country is highlights of this year’s talk included ment. The goal is to transform this wealth and income inequality and a to support programs that are popular, the following: country by bringing working people corrupt political system with billion- like raising the minimum wage, pro- into the political process and run the “You’re looking at the only candi- aires buying elections.” viding free education, making the rich government so it benefits workers and date who believes there’s something pay their share of taxes and providing Solutions that will help not just the billionaire class. If we orga- wrong when three people in America everyone in America with health care. own more wealth than the bottom half “So what are we going do we do nize and bring people together, we can of America,” he said. about these problems?” he continued. transform this country and lead the Invading our privacy “We have to start with the basics. If you world in creating a dignified, civilized Board member Dane Jones asked One person can’t do it alone work 40 hours a week in America, you democratic country.” about employers who are increasingly “Our campaign has the most pro- should not be living in poverty. We Bernie answers questions compromising the privacy of workers’ gressive agenda platform – but if you need to raise the minimum wage to $15 on the job, to which Sanders replied Questions followed many of the want real change, you’re gonna’ have to an hour. We have to end the absur- that he agreed with the point and same topics that Warren addressed, take on Wall Street and three financial dity of women and minorities mak- noted that the privacy of all citizens is beginning with pensions, Social Secu- institutions with assets over 10 trillion ing less for doing the same work that threatened by companies that collect rity and Medicare. Sanders said he dollars. That’s real power. You want pays others more. Seven states now do vast amount of data from individuals, had authored strong legislation to pro- health care reform in this country? that. Our trade schools, public colleges and are totally unaccountable. tect workers in underfunded pension You’re gonna’ have to take on the insur- and apprenticeship programs should plans, and wants to raise the cap on High cost of drugs ance companies. You want to lower be free. Health care is a human right, Social Security contributions so those ILWU Canada President Rob Ash- the cost of prescription drugs? Then not a privilege, and we should expand earning of $250k will start paying the ton jokingly confessed that he had “a you have to take on the pharmaceuti- Medicare to cover dental, hearing aids same rates as someone earning $50k man-crush on Bernie,” which caused cal industry. Last year the health care and eyeglasses – then expand Medicare a year – a change that would raise the room to erupt in laughter, and industry made over $100 billion dol- to cover everyone. We have to address enough revenue to protect the system made Bernie blush bright red. Ashton lars in profit – while 87 million Ameri- climate change because it’s real and we for the next 50 years. went on to ask about the high cost cans were uninsured or underinsured; just announced a plan to solve it. We of drugs and health care in America. 30,000 people died from lack of care, can’t keep building more jails and put- Subsidies for automation? and 500,000 people went bankrupt Sanders shared details of a recent visit ting 20% of people in jail just because Board member Dan McKisson last year from medical bills. The health he made to Canada, accompanied by they can’t afford to pay bail.” asked if Sanders would oppose the care industry will spend hundreds of a group of diabetics, who discovered National Defense Authorization Act millions of dollars to keep their sys- Support for unions that insulin in Canada costs 90% less which contains a provision to fund tem. The most important point I want “The middle class doesn’t grow than in the U.S. Bernie asked Ashton to automation on the docks with public to make is that no president can do it in this country unless the trade union reveal how much Canadians pay for a dollars. Sanders quickly replied, “yes, alone. You can’t transform this country movement grows in this country,” hospital surgery – and the answer was I’ll oppose that.” with one person and one election. It’s said Sanders, adding that he recently “zero.” And how much do they pay President Willie Adams asked takes a people’s movement, and that’s unveiled a new plan to double the num- each month for their health coverage? Sanders for more thoughts about the what I promise to do.” ber of union members in America and “$47 a month,” said Ashton. pledged to be “the strongest pro-union future of work and automation – not- His second point was equally What about the border crisis? President since Franklin Roosevelt, ing that the issue hasn’t been addressed direct: “I’m the strongest candidate to Board member David Gon- and maybe stronger.” His plan would by most candidates. Sanders replied, defeat the most dangerous President in zalez asked Sanders for his views allow workers to join a union when “You’re absolutely right, this is a dis- the history of the .” about the border crisis. The Senator a majority sign cards, without delays cussion that hasn’t taken place – it’s an blamed much of the “crisis” on Presi- Millions have been ignored and interference from anti-union con- explosion waiting to happen.” He then dent Trump’s “racist and xenophobe” He followed with a point that few sultants. It would also require employ- posed a series of questions. “Is it accept- behavior who denigrated immigrants candidates have dared to ask: “how the ers to negotiate first contracts or face able to come in and say ‘hey, we’ve got and promoted inhumane treatment hell did Trump get elected in the first severe penalties, and he would outlaw technology and we’re going to put half of refugees. He then outlined his own place?” he said, quickly answering his “right-to-work-for less” laws. the people out on the street?’ No its not. own question. “There were millions Is it a bad idea if we use technology to immigration plan which was nearly More caring & humane society and millions of working class people replace a dirty, hard job and we’re going identical to Warren’s, with a path for who felt that the Democratic Party “This campaign is about ‘us’ not to cut your hours in half, and you are citizenship, comprehensive reform, was not listening to their pain. Today, ‘me.’ I believe from the bottom of my going to benefit from that technology? an end to separating immigrant family in a relatively strong economy, half of heart that we are in this together, to That’s not a bad idea. So the bottom members and more. build a decent society where we care line is that we can’t be anti-technology our people are living paycheck to pay- continued on page 7 DISPATCHER • September 2019 5 Harry Bridges statue inspires a new generation

Family pride: Three generations of Bridges family members attended the statue unveiling.

ry’s granddaughters Nicole, Annie and respected around the world,” said Marie, niece Carol Waltz and great- Familathe. He also told of being vis- Local 13’s Sergeants-at-Arms unveiled the statue in front of their hiring hall on July 28 grandsons Buckeye and Joe Lenchner, ited by Harry’s widow, Nikki, who plus several spouses. recalled the time that President Nixon arry Bridges – the rank- ing connections to the union that Los Angeles City Councilmember called Bridges to ask if he would end and-file immigrant dock- including family members who were Mike Bonin asked the audience of nearly the 1971 longshore strike. Bridges Hworker who helped found honored as special guests. 200 to reflect on values that Bridges’ responded by telling the President the ILWU by combining mili- Mitre said the idea for the statue promoted which still remain relevant. that the strike would end only after tancy, democracy and pragma- was conceived ten years ago when “In today’s world, when labor the membership voted democratically he and former International Presi- to do so. tism – died 29 years ago at the is under attack and racism is being dent David Arian imagined how such “This has always been a demo- age of 88 after leading the union spewed across the land and immi- a statue might enhance Local 13’s grants are being vilified, it is a good cratic union, and we can thank Harry for four decades. new dispatch hall by greeting union time to remember the important work Bridges for helping make it one of our During his life, Bridges resisted members who arrived each day for of Harry Bridges.” principles,” said Familathe.for helping work. Arian was struck with cancer efforts to build monuments in his Fellow Councilmember Joe Bus- make it one of our principles,” said and died on January 2nd, before the honor, but the urge to memorialize him caino echoed a similar theme in his Familathe. “We’re going through chal- statue was completed, but it was one has endured. The latest transformation remarks. lenges now, including automation, just of Bridges’ image into a beautiful, life- of his last wishes to see it finished and like Harry Bridges and ILWU leaders of “The fights in 1934 are still rele- sized bronze statue was unveiled in he donated generously to finance the his generation faced challenges during vant 85 years later. Today we need to front of Local 13’s new dispatch hall in project. Final funding to complete their time.” foster and encourage new leaders with Wilmington, CA, on July 28 – the same the job was provided by the Southern the spirit and vision of Harry Bridges.” Local 13 Vice-President Gary day Bridges was born in 1901 in Mel- California Pensioners Group. Herrera said the recent fight over Greg Mitre added that “Bridges’ bourne, Australia. Bridges’ son, Robbie, led the fam- automation at Terminal 400 was still determination to help longshore work- Pensioners President Greg Mitre ily delegation and delivered a heartfelt painful. “We may not have won that ers win one contract for all of the ports served as the host for an hour-long cer- “thank you” as he fought back tears. fight, but we fought to protect every- up and down the coast was a genius emony that celebrated Bridges’ endur- The family delegation included Har- one in our community who depends move that made the union so effective on good jobs.” and powerful to this day.” Frank Anderson of the San Pedro Los Angeles Port Commissioner How the Bridges statue was built Historical Society was recognized and Diane Middleton explained how for- thanked for including the history of Building a bronze statue isn’t quick, easy or cheap. Pensioner President mer International President Dave unions and workers in the Society’s Greg Mitre estimates that the total cost came to under $100,000 and Arian, who later become a Port Com- efforts to educate the community. took about 6 months to complete. missioner, came to admire Bridges and Actor Ian Ruskin was asked to Accomplished San Pedro sculptor Eugene Daub was tapped for his talent founded the Harry Bridges Institute improvise a few words while imper- and experience, having already produced dozens of bronze statues – in- in 1993 to educate younger workers sonating Harry Bridges, using material cluding a smaller, formal bust of Bridges’ head and shoulders on display about the principles of democracy, sol- idarity and action. from his one-man show: “From Wharf at the ILWU historic memorial in San Pedro, near the cruise ship terminal. Rats to Lords of the Docks.” International Vice-President (Main- The process for the new full-size statue required a number of steps, be- land) Bobby Olvera, Jr., was recognized “Remember that it wasn’t just me,” ginning with the artist studying photos and sometimes making sketches and invited to speak, but graciously said Ruskin, who seemed to channel to capture key lines and movement in the body. The next step is the deferred to Coast Committeeman the leader’s speaking-style and sub- “fun part” – when Daub shapes giant blocks of clay to capture Bridges’ Frank Ponce De Leon, who observed stance, “it took thousands of men and posture and gestures – with extra care devoted to details in the face, that ILWU members had managed to women to accomplish what we did.” especially the eyes. Daub managed to get every detail, down to the but- survive and prosper despite the intro- The last speaker was Local 13 Pen- tons on Harry’s coat. duction of container technology in sioner Jerry Brady, who shared a poem When the clay sculpture is finished, it’s covered in plaster – which is then the 1960’s. dedicated to Dave Arian. used to make a mold for the final stage – the pouring of molten bronze “In all my years on the docks, I Before adjourning, everyone was into the mold. This last stage involves 12 separate pours that are later only used my dad’s hook once,” said invited to come up front and pose for a assembled into a seamless statue. The final casting process took place at De Leon, referring to the once-essential solidarity photo beside the new statue a foundry in Hawthorne. tool that all longshore workers used to of Harry Bridge – a gesture intended to help load cargo by hand before con- lift the spirits of 400 public ferry work- Daub chose to make the statue slightly larger than Bridges’ actual height tainers became king. ers in Alaska who belong to the Inland- of 5 feet, 7 inches, but his skinny frame is accurately rendered. The Local 13 President Ray Familathe boatmen’s Union and were striking for choice to add a few inches was part of the artistic license granted to recalled meeting an older dockworker a fair contract. Daub in order to covey impact and emotion. from who shared fond memories “This is perfect,” Greg Mitre said The artist and his wife were formally recognized and introduced during of meeting Harry Bridges during a con- quietly, “it’s exactly how Dave and the program. After the ceremony, he was surrounded by members who ference in the 1950’s. Harry would have wanted this to end.” personally thanked him for creating a statue of the ILWU icon. “Harry encouraged solidarity, and that meant ILWU members were

6 DISPATCHER • September 2019 Presidential candidates meet ILWU Executive Board continued from page 5 This is what change is about. We have Apprenticeships and good jobs to change consciousness in America Board member Dax Koho of Local to make people think that the ideas of 22 in Tacoma asked what could be decency and dignity are what this coun- done to improve apprenticeship pro- try is supposed to be about – not giving grams and create more good jobs. tax breaks to billionaires and living in Sanders answered by referring to Presi- an oligarchic society. We are the wealth- dent Franklin Roosevelt’s 1941 “Four iest country in the history of the world, Freedoms” speech, delivered on the and we can do these things.” eve of World War II that argued every Kamala Harris American deserved to be free from The California Senator said she economic insecurity. Sanders went on was honored to be with ILWU mem- to explain that his own campaign is bers, recalling her first run for Dis- embracing Medicare for All, childcare, trict Attorney in San Francisco was tuition-free public colleges and uni- supported by longtime ILWU leaders versities, senior care and a strategy to Leroy King and Fred Pecker. She said address climate change – all designed she remains eternally grateful to both to meet basic human needs while also men who have passed-on. She added, providing good jobs. “every election I have fought and won Fossil fuel transition has been with labor and the ILWU. Secretary-Treasurer Ed Ferris We’ve stood together in many battles asked Sanders about his plan to help for workers’ rights, collective bargain- America shift from dependence on fos- ing and the dignity of labor. I give all thanks and praise for the work you do sil fuels and the oil industry. The Sena- Speaking out: Senator Kamala Harris said her record of confronting corporate tor said the first task is to recognize that every day to secure decent working power and working with unions are key to her campaign for president. scientists are clear that global warming conditions and address the new chal- lenges involving automation. I’m here presents an urgent danger to the planet Help for unions are also factors that would be addressed – even if the President believes scien- today to listen as much as I am to talk, Board member and Local 63-Office with her Medicare for All plan. tists are wrong and that climate change but I would be honored to have your Clerical Unit President John Fageaux is a hoax. Sanders said he just intro- support and look forward to hearing Private prison industry asked what Harris would do to stem duced “the most comprehensive cli- your comments.” She concluded her Board member and Local 26 Presi- the decline of unions. She began by mate change legislation in history” and opening remarks with what she calls dent Luisa Gratz asked whether Harris acknowledging that “labor is under that investments in alternatives would “my 3am agenda.” could do anything about the growth of attack and workers are losing ground,” generate millions of new jobs. private prisons and detention centers. Concerns that worry us at night then provided some specifics. “The The Senator responded quickly, say- Koch Brothers and Jones Act “My campaign is based on the kind Secretary of Labor should be some- ing, “we need to shut them down.” Board member John Fageaux asked of issues that wake people up in the one who supports workers,” she said, Sanders whether the Koch Brothers are middle of the night. The vast majority referring to President Trump’s recent LGBT rights a threat to America. “It’s not just them,” of Americans are worried about many appointment of Eugene Scalia who ILWU Canada President Rob Ash- said Sanders, noting that America’s bil- of the same issues that aren’t being is anti-union. She also expressed her ton asked about abuses of LGBT immi- lionaires have been taking trillions for addressed. They worry about health- opposition to “right-to-work-for less” grants and citizens when they are themselves while the majority of Amer- care for themselves and their family laws that have been enacted in 27 arrested or detained. Harris said she icans are losing ground and seeing cuts members; they worry about getting states. On a personal note, she added, understood the problems and would to Medicare and Social Security. and keeping a good job; they worry “I’ve walked on picket lines with the not tolerate any abusive behavior. about being able to retire with dignity IBU President Marina Secchitano ILWU and other union members.” Subsidies for port automation and whether they can afford expensive asked Sanders about his stand on the Border crisis and Trump’s wall Board member Dan McKisson from prescription drugs. Students worry Jones Act, that provides good union Local 19 asked Harris if she would sup- about paying-off their student loans. Board member and Local 34 mem- jobs for the workers in the maritime port banning federal tax dollars from These are the things that keep people ber David Gonzalez asked Harris about industry. Sanders replied with an being used to subsidize the automation up in the middle of the night and these the border crisis and Trump’s wall. enthusiastic, “yes!” of ports. She expressed support for a are my priorities in this election. She said the President helped create Concluding remarks the problem by agitating voters against study on the issue and said analysis Questions begin with drug prices The Senator concluded with words immigrants and by promoting his bor- should be done by neutral parties. Board member and Local 13 Pres- of wisdom from , who der wall. She said that when Trump Criminal justice & prison reform ident Melvin Mackay asked Harris if began, there was “net-zero” immigra- said, “everything always seems impos- Vice President Bobby Olvera, Jr. she had a plan to lower prescription tion into the U.S. – meaning as many sible until it is done.” Sanders said it is asked what could be done about prison drug prices. She began with a general people were leaving as arriving to the important to recognize that “the system inmates who receive indeterminate response, emphasizing her accom- U.S. “Now Trump is putting babies wants you to believe that anything you sentences, are subject to lengthy soli- plishments as California Attorney in cages and separating children from or I support can’t be done. The system tary confinement, and are held beyond General, when she confronted power- their parents at the border,” practices wants us to think tiny and little, but their release dates. Harris said she is ful corporations. that Harris said are human rights think about history. Slavery was ‘natu- supporting several bills that address “I took-on the five biggest banks in abuses. Harris then described her visit ral’ until enough people stood up and all three problems and would support the United States after they caused peo- to a private detention facility in Flor- said it was barbaric. One hundred years even stronger legislation. She told of ple to lose their homes. I rejected their ida where 2700 children were being ago, women did not have the right to her visit to California’s super-maxi- offer to settle for ‘crumbs-on-the-table’ held – noting that President Trump vote. Gay people have always been told mum security prison in Pelican Bay, and got a settlement almost ten times has cut aid to poor countries in Central they had no right to love who they want. and meetings with inmates who served more than what they offered.” She said America that need help to address pov- Workers were told that they couldn’t long terms in solitary confinement, a her lawsuit against drug companies for erty, injustice and violence in order to come together to collectively bargain practice she described as, “absolutely making misleading claims resulted in a reduce immigration to the U.S. for better conditions. Everything is inhumane.” wrong and crazy until people stand up $200 million settlement. “I’m probably Homelessness one of the only people on the debate College & trade schools and fight for it. Thirty years from now, Board member Dustin Dawson stage with who can talk about the fights Board member and Local 22 Presi- people will say they can’t believe that from Local 142 Longshore asked Har- I’ve actually been in…I’ve actually dent Dax Koho asked Harris about the 30,000 people used to die every year ris what could be done about homeless- taken-on some of the most powerful challenges facing young people who because they had no health care. The ness. She cited the nationwide housing interests in the United States. I’ve won attend college, graduate in debt and idea of a $15 minimum wage was con- shortage in 99% of U.S. counties where and have the track record to prove it.” have trouble finding good jobs. Harris sidered a radical idea four years ago and minimum wage workers cannot afford Her health plan proposal would allow said she is concerned about the priva- now it’s the law in seven states. Making the rent. The Great Recession in 2008 private insurance companies to con- tization of student loan programs that marijuana legal was once thought to be triggered a foreclosure crisis that added tinue operating – but only “if they com- occurred since she went to college. She impossible. Tuition-free public colleges to the problem. The lack of affordable pete under our rules,” she said, “without said the current system allows predatory and universities was recently consid- health care and mental health services ered a radical idea, but not anymore. charging co-pays or deductibles.” continued on page 8 DISPATCHER • September 2019 7 A Helping Hand...... when you need it most. That’s what we’re all about. We are the representatives of the ILWU- sponsored recovery programs. We provide professional and confidential assistance to you and your family for alcoholism, drug abuse and other problems—and we’re just a phone call away.

ILWU LONGSHORE DIVISION ADRP—Oregon ADRP—Southern California Brian Harvey Tamiko Love 5201 SW Westgate Dr. #207 29000 South Western Ave., Ste 205 Portland, OR 97221 Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 (503) 231-4882 (310) 547-9966 ADRP—Washington Presidential candidates ADRP—Northern California Donnie Schwendeman Hunny Powell 3600 Port of Tacoma Rd. #503 meet ILWU Executive [email protected] Tacoma, WA 98424 400 North Point (253) 922-8913 San Francisco, CA 94133 (415) 776-8363 Board ILWU CANADA continued from page 7 The future of work and ILWU WAREHOUSE DIVISION EAP—British Columbia lenders to take advantage of students. automation DARE—Northern California John Felicella She believes trade schools and appren- President Willie Adams asked why Teamsters Assistance Program 3665 Kingsway, Ste 300 ticeship programs should be expanded. more candidates aren’t talking about 300 Pendleton Way Vancouver, BC V5R 5WR Teaching careers could offer good jobs automation and the future of work Oakland, CA 94621 (604) 254-7911 to millions of graduates if pay was raised – and he asked Harris for her views. (510) 562-3600 an average of $13,500 across the nation, She replied that the issue requires which she strongly supports. “a leader who will bring everyone Protecting the Jones Act together for an honest conversation IBU President and Board member about the consequences of automa- Marina Secchitano asked about the tion, including jobs, productivity and Jones Act. Harris said she supports the who will benefit and who will lose. I law that protects good jobs. admire innovation, but don’t think it should cost whole populations of peo- Watch the opening statements from all three Climate Change ple to lose employment. There’s a lot candidates on the Dispatcher’s YouTube channel: Secretary-Treasurer Ed Ferris asked of information, and a lot of misinfor- Harris about her position on Climate mation about the benefits – whether https://www.youtube.com/user/ILWUDispatcher Change. “It’s a crisis, and on day-one, its job creation or the destruction of I would get us back in the Paris Agree- jobs, so these have to be honest con- ment. I have a Green New Deal plan that versations and they require an honest will make us carbon-neutral by 2030. A broker, and I intend to be thathonest lot of jobs will be created in the process broker.” of providing clean air and clean water.” ILWU BOOK & VIDEO ORDER FORM TRANSITIONS ORDER BY MAIL

___ copies of Solidarity Stories @ $17 ea. = $_____ NEW PENSIONERS: DECEASED PENSIONERS: Local 8: Matthew Hernandez; Patrick Local 8: George J. Gust; Mark H. ___ copies of A Spark Is Struck @ $13.50 ea.= $_____ R. Johnson; Gary A. Stutzer; Roy E. Ayers; Wylie B. Eddings, Jr.; Sharon V. Schmeusser; Local 10: Cletis J. Hayes; Helgerson; Local 10: James H. Smith: ___ copies of The Legacy of 1934 @ two for $5 = $_____ Rodney Rushing; Local 12: Wayne W. Local 13: William C. Dugan; ___ copies of Harry Bridges @ $10 ea.= $_____ Wingert; Local 13: Steven D. Linson; Guadalupe Navarro Jr; Lawrence E. Steve M. Simich; Salvatore J. Ferrara; Henry; Luis Gonzalez; Teodosio V. ___ copies of The Big Strike @ $9.00 ea. = $_____ Dwane A. Roberts; Mark A. Arcy; Garcia; Hilario Chavez (Rosa); Richard Priscilla Brown; Luis B. Nunuvero; A. Penhall; Local 18: Donald Lee ___ copies of The Union Makes Us Strong @ $20 ea. = $_____ Simon A. Medina; Tommy A. Beachler (Madelon); Local 19: Robert Logrande; Richard Avina; Javier B. Van Curen; Local 21: Lonny D. ___ copies of Eye of the Storm DVD @ $5 ea. = $_____ Orozco; Jose L. Yin; Roque R. Pittman; James F. Bartolus (Ruth); Terrones; Maxine M. Kirkland; John Local 23: Jon K. Dobiash; ___ copies of We Are the ILWU DVD @ $5 ea. = $_____ M. Rivera; Kenneth C. Eaton; Karie A. Local 34: Victor C. Grech (Jane); Rados; Local 19: David W. Bridges; Local 52: Rudy J. Benincasa; ___ copies of A Life on the Beam DVD @ $5 ea. = $_____ Russell C. Anderson; Steven E. Jacobs; Local 63: Eugene “Joe” Ponce; Local 19: Ronald L. Kenney; John M. Local 94: Gino M. Benedetti; Richard Total Enclosed $_____ Waddell; Local 21: Dan C. Jaynes; J. Flores (Patricia); Local 98: Ralph E. No sales outside the U.S. Local 23: Robert E. Bicheray; Michael Severson (Patricia); We regret that U.S. Customs and postal regulations create too great a burden L. Rogers; William A. Wilcher; Gary R. DECEASED SURVIVOR: for our staff to maintain book sale service to our members and friends outside Bethke; Local 46: Carlos G. Bravo; Local 10: Doris S. Velasco; Faye N. the United States. Local 54: Norman A. Hudspeth; Willis; Local 12: Louise F. Steele; Name______Local 63: Larry A. Glusac; Mike J. Local 13: Leonida Molina; Rebeca Toscano; Raymond M. Rodriguez; Munoz; Ruth A. Hernandez; Mary O. Street Address or PO Box ______Gina M. Desanto; Eric R. Heath; John Mc Coy; Local 19: Hilda K. Sovkueff; A. Di Iorio; Victoria I. Toscano; Diane Local 34: Annabelle M. Santana; City ______State______Zip______L. Gregg-Canetti; David Tso; Local 91: Local 51: Doris O. Paulson; Make check or money order (U.S. Funds) payable to “ILWU” and send to Kenneth R. Jones; Local 92: Leroy F. DECEASED ACTIVE MEMBERS: Kadow; John R. Rinta; Local 94: Paul ILWU Library, 1188 Franklin Street, San Francisco, CA 94109 Local 63: Charles Bridgette (Doris) R. Uttecht; Donald J. Mackenzie; Prices include shipping and handling. Mark A. Jeffery; Please allow at least four weeks for delivery. Shipment to U.S. addresses only

8 DISPATCHER • September 2019