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A health care theirpriorities. and economy the made egates del- pensioners, and workers ILWU-representedfor policy of years three next the shaping In ahead. lie that challenges the about realistic but hopeful was mood the tatters, in economy nation’s the and House White a the in With president pro-labor new WA. Seattle, in year this held convention, triennial their for gathered jurisdiction McEllrath tolddelegates.“We willmoveforwardastheydid.Ourbattleisinfrontofus.” a courseforthenextthree years. Conventionchart International Delegates attheILWU’s 34th Steady AsSheGoes Ahead: Looking eet ad itre. “Seventy-five victories. and defeats both of discussions invigorated ries anniversa- the to reference and ada, Can - ILWU of anniversary 50th the and Thursday Bloody of anniversary 75th the with coincided Convention The ILWU 34th International International 34th ILWU The onr o te ILWU’s the of corners 1938, delegates from all since done have they s “In difficult times, the ‘34 strikers took hold of their destiny,” International President Robert President International their destiny,” of hold took ‘34 strikers the times, difficult “In new Friendship and Solidarity State- Solidarity and Friendship new a signed and delegates the addressed Itoh, Akinobu Dockworkers, All- Japan of Secretary General Assistant Zealand. New of Union Maritime the of Mayn Russell and Parsloe Garry Bel- the and Worker’s Transport Union; gian from Lubben Henri Loridan and Marc Verbeeck, included Monique afar from guests guished distin- Other Federation. Workers’ Transport International the of tion Sec - Dockers’ the of Secretary Leys, Washington;of University Frank and the at Studies Labor of Chair Bridges Harry the Gregory,holds Prof.James who Australia; of Union Maritime the of Secretary National Crumlin, Paddy Gregoire; Christine Gov. ton Washingspeaker - Keynote including pre- sented to many of the guest speakers, were presidents ILWU living poster anniversary signed by the four 75th new the of Copies McEllrath. Robert President International continues,” said struggle the and years DISPATCHER •July/August 20091 Vol 67,NO7•JUL h si ta Wsigo i proud is Washington that said She years.” eight last the of damage the undo to need “we that noting ment, the mess Bush administrationleftbehind. the up cleaning of work the to down buckled delegates Now teeth. have to proven has resolution Back” Government Our “Take 2006 greatest achievements of all time,” the President McEllrath called “one of our which Obama, Barack of election the more active become in electoral politics. With to members ILWU for ing of President George W. Bush and call- policies the condemning resolution a adopted 2006 in Convention tional - Interna last the at Delegates tories. vic- biggest their of able one in rejoice to were members recession, the Celebrating victories Vice-President Furtado. and McEllrath President with ment o. rgie cod h senti- the echoed Gregoire Gov. of gloom and doom the Despite Y/AUGUST 2009 continued onpage3

LETTERS TO THE DISPATCHER Dear Editor, rights, our human rights and rights to privacy and safety. A full hear- After a half-century, literally tons of beef, salmon and hot dogs, ing at Supreme Court has been sought to deliberate these precious and enough fond memories and good stories to fill a cargo hold, ILWU matters. The Attorney General’s lawyers have attempted to segre- Local 50 has ended a well-known West Coast tradition—its annual gate and put aside our challenge by convoluted arguments twisted Labor Day picnic. up in poor interpretations of case law. Our excellent position for fair, Held on the North Coast of Oregon near Astoria, the annual Labor reasonable and natural justice is up against the employers of the Day picnic has been a major social event since before 1958, and always West Coast and the Port of Montreal, which, with the favoritism of a special gathering place for friends and families of the union. Crowds the Attorney General, are relentless in their purpose to push us into over the years included area politicians, dignitaries, International Of- a legal box so that we will sign away undeniable rights as Canadian ficers, and even an occasional movie star and sports celebrity. citizens and freely associated union members. Fifty years of fun, food, friends and fraternalism didn’t just hap- losing our jobs, our seniority positions at work, being denied pen; it was the result of many, many volunteers and many, many hours employment or being fearful for our families who reside in Canada of work. The list of names is too numerous to mention and thank pub- or other countries because of misguided, anti-union alarmists resid- licly, but the members of Local 50 wish to say, “Thank you for making ing in the government’s house or senate or corporate boardrooms is it happen” to everyone who ever helped them celebrate Labor’s past, outrageously unjust. There has been and will continue to be interna- present and future at Cullaby Lake. tional headlines about union brothers and sisters and citizens being humiliated, harassed, tortured and murdered because they were on So once again, thank you for making our Labor Day picnics a huge some phony “list” wielded by a faceless official or death squad. We success. We couldn’t have done it without you. are not the enemies of Canada. Our families and friends have fought The members of ILWU Local 50 in wars for democracy, human rights and worker’s rights. We have Astoria, OR a duty now, to get together to protect ourselves, our families, our union, our very citizenship by resisting the oppression of “Big Broth- Dear Editor, er” emanating from narrow halls of militarized government solutions our union continues to face profound questions regarding the parading as the public good. sanctity of our very citizenship in light of the government demand Dave Pritchett, Longshore Local 500 for more stringent and discriminatory security laws. Imagined se- curity threats emanating from our second- and third-generation members seem more important to bureaucrats and politicians in Ottawa than the obvious threats of war, environmental degradation, CORRECTION economic plunder, deindustrialization, undrinkable water or child Randy Swindell, Hawaii Rep for the Masters, Mates & Pilots union, poverty. was misidentified in a photo on page 4 of the June 2009 issueof ILWU Canada has been seeking justice by challenging existing The Dispatcher. and pending legislation before the Canadian Labour Relations Board for many years. We are proud of our demanding, expensive and prin- Send your letters to the editor to: The Dispatcher, 1188 Franklin St., cipled struggle. We continue to be diligent in asserting our charter San Francisco, CA 94109-6800 or email to [email protected]

CANDIDATE International Election Notice STATEMENTS For posting at all ILWU union halls and offices from July 27, 2009 through Sept. 10, 2009. P 12

An election by secret ballot is being conducted by mail to determine the selection of ILWU Titled Officers, International Executive Board members, and, for Longshore Division locals only, Coast Committeemen. The mail ballot procedure is the only method being used for voting in this election. The election is being conducted pursuant to the ILWU Election Rules and Procedures adopted at the April 1994 Convention and as subsequently amended. No later than Monday, July 27, 2009 ballot packets will have been mailed out to all ILWU members listed on the Voter Eligibility List. If for any reason you do not receive in the mail a ballot packet by Monday, Aug. 3, 2009 and if you believe you are an ILWU member who is eligible to vote in this election, you can obtain a ballot packet by personally calling Election Services Solutions, the outside agency assisting in this election, at 1-800-864-1263. Since most ILWU members should receive their ballot packet from the mailing, telephone calls to Election Services Solutions will not be accepted until after Aug. 2, 2009. A ballot packet can only be obtained from Election Services Solutions and not from the ILWU, the ILWU Election Procedures Committee, the ILWU locals and affiliates, or any of their officers and representatives. Please also note that all voters must return their ballots in the designated post office box in San Francisco, Calif., no later than 8am PST, Sept. 10, 2009. Late ballots will not be counted under any circumstances. To prevent ineligible persons from voting, please note that any individual who requests a ballot packet and who is not on the Voter Eligibility List will be sent a challenged ballot for voting. All challenged ballots will be subject to possible later investigation as to the voter’s eligibility. Also, the ballot packets are electronically coded to prevent anyone from having more than one ballot counted. If a voter mails in more than one ballot, the ballot with the latest postmark or receipt stamp will be counted and the prior one(s) will be voided. However, where it is not possible to determine the latest postmark or receipt stamp, all ballots cast by the same voter will be voided. Any ILWU member who has a question about the election may call the ILWU Election Procedures Committee at 1-415-775-0533 to leave a voice mail message. If you call before 9am, after 5pm or on weekends and holidays, dial extension 150 during the answering machine message to be connected to voicemail.

DISPATCHER ILWU TITLED OFFICERS Craig Merrilees Robert McEllrath, President Communications Director and Senior Editor Joseph R. Radisich, Vice President The Dispatcher (ISSN 0012-3765) is published monthly except for a combined July/August issue, for $5.00 a year and $10.00 a year for non-members by the ILWU, 1188 Franklin St., Tai Moses Wesley Furtado, Vice President San Francisco, CA 94109. Periodical postage paid at San Francisco, CA. The Dispatcher Editor William E. Adams, Secretary-Treasurer welcomes letters, photos and other submissions to the above address. © ILWU, 2009 2 DISPATCHER • July/August 2009 34th Int’l Convention Seattle, Washington Steady As She Goes 75 continue from page 1 Health care years to call itself a union state. “We stand The health care crisis in our coun- with you,” she told delegates. “From try was front and center at the con- the port to the warehouses to the fer- vention with four resolutions address- ries, the state is working because you ing the subject. Delegates agreed that do. We thank you for your fight for fair health care is an urgent ethical issue; wages, benefits and working condi- more than 47 million people in the U. tions and for making them real.” The S. are currently without health insur- Governor made it clear that she is a ance, another 40 million have inad- proud supporter of the Employee Free equate coverage with high co-pays Choice Act. “We have many challenges and deductibles, and many others are and one of the biggest is passing the at risk of losing coverage. In addi- Free Choice Act. We need to make that tion, the cost of health insurance has happen this year.” become a major stumbling block in Speaker Richard Hughes, president union contract negotiations, causing of the International Longshoremen’s strikes, lock-outs, protracted delib- Another Round of Applause: When they weren’t debating resolutions, convention delegates were treated to a diverse array of guest speakers. Association, said he believed that under erations and lower monetary offers by the new president and the Democratic management. order to fully fund all the programs of resolution mandating that 30 percent Congress it would be easier to turn the One health care resolution adopted the International. The Titled Officers of the International’s per capita income country around. Hughes told delegates by delegates (R-7) endorses HR676, also elected to suspend their May 1, be reserved for organizing. Delegates that Obama’s Secretary of Labor, Hilda single payer health care, and calls for 2009 salary increase in recognition of decided to revise the 1997 mandate to Solis, made her first public appearance the AFL-CIO and Change to Win to the financial difficulties members and authorize organizing expenses up to 30 at an ILA hall in Miami, while they actively lobby the White House and affiliates are coping with (C-3). Inter- percent of the per capita income. Still, couldn’t even get an appointment with Congress for its passage. A second res- national Executive Board members delegates wasted no time affirming the the previous Secretary. olution, R-12, also endorses HR676. A were given an increase, the first since International’s commitment to organiz- Delegates were eager to roll up third resolution (R-25) addresses uni- versal health care as well as sick leave, 1983, from $100 per day to $150 per ing, adopting two resolutions recogniz- their sleeves and get down to busi- day for attending meetings of the Board ing that organizing is the lifeblood of ness. If anyone doubts that the ILWU pensions and family leave, noting that less than 14 percent of American work- (C-14). unions and mobilizing the membership is a union that gives voice to the rank to support passage of the Employee and file all they have to do is attend an ers have achieved some of these bene- Rite Aid: applauding progress fits and rights through union organiza- Free Choice Act (P-5); and emphasiz- International Convention. “This is your One of the convention’s most ing that organizing is a matter of sur- convention; this is the rank and file’s tion and collective bargaining. Finally, memorable guest speakers was a first- a fourth resolution (R-27) affirms that vival for the Warehouse, Maritime, and convention,” said President McEllrath, timer who had never addressed a other Allied Divisions and gives mean- and ensuing discussions proved him while health care spending in the U.S. packed room before: Rite Aid worker reached $2.4 trillion last year, the qual- ing to the motto, “An Injury to One is right. On the convention floor, in the Debbie Fontaine, whom International an Injury to All” (P-8). time-honored ritual that many del- ity of patient care is dismal, with the Vice-President Joe Radisich introduced egates call “democracy in action,” the U.S. ranked 29th out of 37 countries as “one of the heroines of the fight.” Solidarity at home and around rank and file has the power to influ- for infant mortality, double the rate for Fontaine, a member of the Rite Aid the world ence debate and shape the direction of France and Germany. R-27 supports bargaining committee who spent a year Renewing its obligation to inter- their union on matters of policy and comprehensive health care reform and out of work after being fired for sup- national solidarity, the convention position. reminds union members to live health- porting the union, recapped the work- adopted resolutions that called for “Whether we pass or fail a resolu- fully and promote wellness in their ers’ struggle in a powerful slide presen- restoring diplomatic relations with tion, or bring it back and reword it a own families. tation that had delegates on their feet Cuba (R-38), freeing five Cuban men little, it’s interesting to see the whole Finances applauding by the finish. who were charged with espionage and process,” said Dennis Morton, Local Delegates adopted the Interna- The union underscored its com- are serving life sentences in U.S. prisons 142. “You’re allowed to speak your tional Officers’ Financial Report, which mitment to the Rite Aid fight with a (R-33), and supporting South African heart and speak your voice. Whether includes a modest per capita increase resolution (R-36) supporting the 600 dockworkers (R-30). There were reso- you agree or disagree, at the end we’re that will put $100,000 into the union’s Lancaster, Calif. Rite Aid workers who lutions in support of immigrant rights all the same union.” treasury over the next three years in have been without a contract since vot- (R-13) and women’s rights (R-42), and ing to join ILWU Warehouse Local 26 against racism and the death penalty last November. Rite Aid has instigated (R-32). Delegates considered a pro- a de-certification campaign and hired a posal to change the union name back union-busting consultant to intimidate to International Longshoremen’s and the workforce and further the com- Warehousemen’s Union—as it was pany’s anti-union campaign by stalling known in the past—but after debate negotiations. The resolution applauds the committee members voted to leave the workers’ ongoing courage and dili- the name unchanged. gence in the line of fire. A sister reso- Supporting our brothers and sisters lution supporting the Employee Free Delegates were happy to adopt Choice Act (R-14) promises that the resolutions in support of smaller ILWU will do everything in its power locals that are experiencing hard to ensure passage of this important bill, times. Resolution R-6 pledges the which will help not only Rite Aid work- International’s backing to the Boron ers but all others who wish to freely and miners of Local 30 in their upcoming safely join unions at their workplace. contract negotiations with anti-union Organizing: lifeblood of the union employer Rio Tinto Minerals, one On Your Side: Rite Aid worker Debbie Fontaine came to the convention to tell Delegates devoted considerable of the biggest mining companies in delegates about her co-workers’ three-year struggle to join the union. Front row from time to debating a resolution that the world. Another resolution (R-20) left: Luisa Gratz, president of Local 26; Joseph Radisich, Vice-President Mainland; Deb- would give the International more flex- supports Local 20, whose remain- bie Fontaine, Rite Aid worker; Bob McEllrath, International President. Middle row: ibility in the amount of funding it dedi- ing 53 members work at Rio Tinto’s Willie Adams, International Secretary-Treasurer; Wes Furtado, Vice-President Hawaii; Wilmington CA Borax plant. Christine Leblanc, Local 26 member. Back row: Andrew Wright, Edward Calleros, and cates to organizing (C-17). In 1997 the Enrique Cortinas Jr, all Local 26. International Convention adopted a continued on page 7

DISPATCHER • July/August 2009 3 At the Precipice Paddy Crumlin, National Secretary of the Maritime Union of Australia, says that beneath the muck and mire of the global financial crisis gleams the opportunity to build a new labor movement.

Ed. Note: The following is excerpted morass, out of that hole and regain the from remarks Crumlin made at the momentum that we once had? ILWU 34th International Convention. At the same time the banks and the private equity houses that created that e have been brought wealth are now reshaping themselves. to the precipice of They have taken our wealth. They have destroyed the companies we work for. Weconomic collapse, They have put us on the unemploy- social exclusion, poverty, un- ment lines. And they will be back. As employment and industrial the economic cycle turns around they We have to make a difference for work- each other. Put politics and personali- exclusion by one of the worst will rebuild and we will be plunged in ers this time before the neoliberal and ties aside and rebuild a world around demonstrations of greed, elitism another cycle unless we do something neoconservative forces regroup and the real labor values that we stand for. about it. and selfishness in the history of visit the same tragedies upon us again. Give women equal rights of access and That is the key message I wanted We must continue to define our lead- remuneration. Rebuild the opportuni- humanity. Never has so much to bring to you, my wonderful brothers ership by the needs of workers in the ties for our youth and give them voice been plundered and desecrated and sisters of the ILWU. Out of all the external environment of these terri- and power in our union. Work with by so few in such a short period mud and mire there gleams an opportu- bly difficult times and not be scared other unions to eliminate wastage and of time since the industrializa- nity for us. Better and fairer labor laws, to challenge our internal mechanisms, challenge that political opportunism. tion of our world. which are within your grasp, are going to make them waste free, to remove Organize, organize, organize. That is to give right of access, the right to be in the duplication, to be able to go and what we do, whether it’s Rite Aid or The victims are the great sea of a union, the ability to bargain without extend. Blue Diamond, continue to secure the working men and women, their fami- harassment and legal harassment, the rights of hotel workers and warehouse lies, and retirees. Those with material right of workers to secure peace. All of industries wherever they are. Give independence and jobs and a living workers the opportunity that we take security have been mugged and robbed “The great vision of the ILWU was to for granted most of our days on the by an elite group of corporate thugs docks and in our other industries. and bullies assisted in their greed by extend the ownership of the union into a political elite that is driven by greed In 1934 when this union was and their own self-absorption. areas where it was hard to organize— formed, most dock workers were impoverished, disenfranchised, legally In this country there is unemploy- excluded and industrially isolated, and ment of 10 percent—that 10 percent to continue to secure the rights of hotel murdered and imprisoned to boot. represents so many working men and workers and warehouse industries Through your courage, through your women and so much emotional and strategic leadership, through your physical stress. Youth unemployment wherever they are.” brotherhood and sisterhood and your now in the U.S. is, they say, between democracy you have built this great 20 and 24 percent. A lost generation union. You built a union of political of workers has been robbed of their those things now are opportunities in It’s hard to organize hotel workers independence and progress that stands aspirations and their right to a decent the rebuilding of our economies and and warehouse workers. What a cou- on an understanding of your individual living, all the things that we fought so our societies and the creation and the rageous group of individuals. We’re and collective self-worth and dignity. hard for in our unions. new vision. The door is open for us to blessed in unions like ours that we build a new labor movement, a better organize dockworkers and seafarers That’s where your self-esteem comes The global financial crisis wasn’t at from. To be an individual but also to its roots like the Depression. It wasn’t labor movement, a social and political, who are easy to organize. Who wants industrial and cultural manifestation of to organize the unorganized in some of work cooperatively and collectively— about not enough. It was about too that is the signature of your work. That much. If anything, look at the material freedom and equality. All the things we these miscellaneous and difficult indus- aspire for in our normal lives as indi- tries? That was the great vision of the is the signature of our lives as labor wealth still out there. What the global activists and labor leaders. That is the financial crisis was about was a polar- viduals and collectively; compassion, ILWU, to extend the ownership of the support, and belief in each from the union into areas where it was hard to hope for the future and that’s the hope ization of wealth at one end in a coun- for workers here and everywhere. try that never saw the move of the basic cradle to the grave. organize. We have a responsibility with Long live the labor movement. wage for workers under the policies of It will be a long road and a hard our resources to make sure that we are Long live the ILWU. the Bush government. That is a great road. We have to challenge our inter- able to embrace those workers in the challenge for our labor movement. nal leadership. We need to change and warehouses, in hotels, in other indus- How do we claw our way out of that rehabilitate our unions and our union tries, with other unions. We are coop- structures and our union movement. erative with each other and not against

History Lessons: Local 13 member Mike Piazza peruses the new historical exhibit, “Securing the Union’s Future: The 1948 Strike,” which made its debut at the convention. The exhibit documents how, through rank- and-file solidarity, the ILWU was able to stand up to the corporate onslaught and secure its future as a progressive force for social change. For more information about the exhibit or to request a showing in your area, contact the ILWU Library at (415) 775-0533.

4 DISPATCHER • July/August 2009 their endorsed U.S. Senate candidates: The Caucus adopted the Coast Jeff Merkley in Oregon; Mark Udall in Committee’s recommendation to Colorado; Tom Udall in New Mexico; change the Longshore Division busi- and Mark Begich in Alaska. ness name from “Coast Pro Rata Com- Coast Benefits Specialist John mittee” to “Coast Longshore Division.”

Photo credit: Lewis Wright Photo credit: Castanho of Local 10 stated that the Candidates for the Coast Committee Pension and Welfare Committee com- are as follows: for California, the can- mends the Negotiating Committee’s didates are John Kavanaugh of Local success in securing the maintenance 29 and incumbent Coast Committee- of benefits for the entire ILWU family. man Ray Ortiz, Jr. of Local 13; for the This is quite a feat considering that the Northwest, the candidate is incumbent monthly family imputed benefit cost Coast Committeeman Leal Sundet of of the Welfare Plan rose from $454 Local 8. in 2002 to $1,969 in 2008. Castanho Retiring union brothers outlined negotiated improvements in vision benefits, dental implants, and The Caucus said goodbye to three improvements to the Defined Benefit retiring members: Stephen Hanson of Pension Plan. Local 8, Lawrence Thibeaux of Local 10, and John Tousseau of Local 63. Education Committee Chair Patri- cia Aguirre of Local 63 reported on Brother Hanson received his B behalf of the Education Committee book in 1968 and his A book in 1972 Friends from Norway: International Vice-President Joseph Radisich, left, and served in nearly every office at introduces the delegation from the Norwegian Transport Workers Union. that several classes proved popular and effective in educating and empowering Local 8. He showed leadership in the rank-and-file of the Longshore Divi- organizing workers and chaired the sion. These classes included the Griev- Budget Committee for the Longshore Caucus Sets Agenda ance and Arbitration Procedure (GAP) Division for the past 10 years. Several Workshop, International Relations and delegates said they will continue to for Coming Year Solidarity Workshops, and the ILWU look to Hanson for his straight talk, Contract Class on the PCL&CA. The guidance, and expertise. Brother Thi- Caucus delegates reject TWIC; resolve “Legacy of 1934” exhibit was displayed beaux, who was registered at Local 10 several times throughout all regions in in 1967, lobbied for the rights of all to protect jurisdiction. the past two years and has been exceed- workers and worked to protect the ingly well received. Aguirre recom- port’s neighbors from the health effects he Longshore Division tee’s work to sustain OSHA’s final rul- Caucus that followed the ing on Vertical Tandem Lifts (VTLs) ILWU 34th Convention from an employer-led challenge. While Delegates agreed that the TWIC program T the VTL rule allows for the hoisting of convened to discuss the past two empty containers using approved trespasses on the civil liberties of long- year’s activities, debate economic semi-automatic twist locks, it requires and political issues, and chart the strict manual checks of the twist locks shore workers and creates additional course for the coming year. before lifting. The rule also contains complications and costs for little or no An important topic of discussion other strict safety requirements involv- was the Transport Worker Identification ing union involvement. PMA, through added security benefit. Credential (TWIC). After good faith National Maritime Safety Association compliance with TWIC’s burdensome (NMSA), wants the rule watered down mended hosting a Pacific Coast Marine of port pollution. Several Caucus del- requirements, the Caucus endorsed and is even arguing that OSHA has no Safety Code (PCMSC) Workshop. The egates thanked Thibeaux for mentor- the Coast Committee’s recommenda- authority relative to rule making overall. Coast Committee recommendation to ing them as young union members, tion to seek the abandonment of the The Longshore Division has commit- conduct a GAP program for new offi- recalled good times at meetings, and TWIC program altogether. Since the ted to use any and all resources avail- cers semi-annually was approved by lauded his 16 years of service on the TWIC program was rolled out, it has able to keep NMSA from weakening this the Caucus along with the recommen- International Executive Board. Brother become clear that it does not actually important safety rule and protect the dations of the Education Committee. Tousseau started as a Local 13 long- fundamental existence of OSHA. improve port security. TWIC is an inef- The Caucus agreed to continue the shoreman 41 years ago and joined fective program that improperly inserts Legislative Committee Chair Max Clerk Technology Committee and to Local 63 some 20 years later. Tousseau the employers (many of them foreign) Vekich of Local 52 reported that the merge committees to construct a Long- is a man with a huge heart who dedi- into a United States government pro- Committee’s presence in Washington, shore Technology/Jurisdiction Com- cated himself to the Union. Delegates gram, trespasses on the civil liberties of D.C. during the 2008 Longshore Divi- mittee from which a subcommittee thanked Tousseau for his years of ser- longshore workers, and creates addi- sion contract negotiations was impor- would deal with M&R issues. vice, his guidance, and the great many tant in keeping both Congress and tional complications and costs for little All Committees are designed to sacrifices that he made over the years. the Negotiating Committee informed. or no added security benefit. (See the offer advice and recommendations to All three brothers will be missed. Since the November 2008 election gov- White Paper at www.ilwu.org for more the Coast Committee. information.) ernment “doors opened to us that were Jurisdiction is another issue that locked before.” The Legislative Com- was addressed at the Caucus. In today’s mittee sees opportunities to address economy, the employers are increas- port infrastructure, the Employee Free ILWU Solidarity ingly seeking to replace ILWU long- Choice Act, and universal health care shoremen and clerks with a low-wage, for all. Congress’ proposed taxation of Strengthens ARA non-union workforce. The Caucus members’ health benefits is unaccept- stated its resolve to fight to protect able to the Committee – a message that Position In Short Strike ILWU jurisdiction in the West Coast echoed the Coast Committee’s report ports. The fight to protect jurisdic- and that was unanimously adopted by ILWU’s affiliate American Radio Association reached a ten- tion will be tough. At the approval of the Caucus. tative agreement on June 27 with Hawaiian shipping giant the Caucus, the Coast Committee has Legislative Committee member Matson, after staging a 12-hour strike at the Port of Seattle’s redirected resources to build a team Dawn Des Brisay of Local 40 reported on the ILWU’s 2008 political strategy, Terminal 18 that disrupted the loading of a Matson container that will specialize in defending juris- ship. ARA’s contract expired June 15 and Matson refused to diction from attack. This new team which was more ambitious than any- includes experienced communications thing previously undertaken. Nearly 50 renew it. When negotiations broke down, ARA’s picket line went and field coordinator staff who will member, auxiliary, pensioner and staff up at 7:30am Saturday. By the end of the day Matson and ARA work directly with the locals to protect volunteers campaigned full time in the had reached a contract settlement. ILWU jurisdiction. weeks leading up to the presidential election. To have the greatest impact on Longshoremen from ILWU Locals 19, 52 and 98 honored Committee reports the top priority of electing then-Sena- the picket line, which an arbitrator ruled bona fide, and refused Members reported on the hard tor Barack Obama, volunteers concen- to load the Hawaii-bound MV Maui. Offshore unions Masters work of their committees overseeing trated on five “swing” states: Alaska, Mates & Pilots and Marine Engineers also honored the strike. safety, legislative and political matters, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, and “We got a fair contract and ILWU solidarity made a big pension and benefits, and education. Oregon. Members also made phone Safety Committee Chair Tim Podue calls, knocked on doors, and persuaded difference to us,” said Carl Young, president of ARA. of Local 13 reported on the Commit- voters to elect Obama as well as all of

DISPATCHER • July/August 2009 5 Rite Aid Workers Rock NYC

Exposing Rite Aid: The story about Rite Aid’s union Shareholder Meeting busting in Lancaster reached a nationwide audience on TV’s “Democracy Now” program with journalist Amy Goodman. The Workers and shareholders demand changes broadcast featured a live report before the rally and shareholder meeting in New York. from Rite Aid execs. ost company share- Rally in Times Square Surprising support from about negotiating a fair contract, and holder meetings are An hour before the shareholder shareholders CEO Mary Sammons should come out boring affairs attended meeting, workers from a dozen dif- Inside the shareholder meeting, to meet with us in Lancaster and help M ferent unions held a spirited rally in investors heard dramatic testimony settle the contract.” by a handful of investors listen- Times Square. The event featured most from longtime Rite Aid employee Angel ing to bland speeches. The Rite Shareholders rip Rite Aid of the unions that represent Rite Aid Warner, who works at the Lancaster CEO and execs Aid annual shareholder meet- employees around the country; the Distribution Center with 600 other After hearing how parents were United Food and Commercial Work- employees who have been unable to ing in New York City on June being disciplined and fired for ers Union that represents thousands of get their contract negotiated because of 25 was dramatically different, leaving work at the end of a shift Rite Aid retail store employees; SEIU Rite Aid’s union-busting agenda. because Rite Aid workers came to care for their children, a female 1199 members employed as Rite Aid Rising courageously to face CEO shareholder spontaneously rose to to the meeting armed with facts pharmacy techs at East Coast retail Mary Sammons and address the audi- defend the workers, asking CEO Mary and determined to share their stores; and Teamsters representing ence of mostly men in business suits, Sammons if she had children of her views from the shop floor about thousands of warehouse workers in Warner explained how officials failed to own, and wondering how anyone, several regional distribution centers. widespread mismanagement and address the extreme heat and freezing especially another woman, could force Also present was a large contingent of union-busting at the company’s cold temperatures inside their Lancaster mothers to choose between caring dockworkers who belong to the Inter- Distribution Center in Lancaster, warehouse; how the company was forc- for their children or losing their jobs. national Longshoremen’s Association ing employees to work unscheduled, Other shareholders also rose to sup- CA, where a majority of workers (ILA), the union that represents work- mandatory overtime preventing parents port the workers and urge CEO Mary voted to join the ILWU in March ers on the East Coast and Gulf ports. from picking-up their children after Sammons to get personally involved in 2008. After making their case at To express their solidarity and sup- work; and how workers were threat- a settlement. One shareholder who said Rite Aid’s annual meeting, work- port, everyone attending the Times ened and fired for supporting the union. he worked on Wall Street and “didn’t ers won a surprising amount of Square rally signed a giant “postcard” Warner suggested three steps the com- really care much for unions,” expressed support from company share- that was shipped the following day to pany could take to put things back on a concern for what was happening in workers in Lancaster with the message, positive track: “Rite Aid should fire their Lancaster and urged CEO Sammons holders who agreed that change “Your fight is our fight.” union busting consultants, get serious is needed. to fly out and meet with workers and help reach a solution. “That’s your job,” he told her. Private jet flights curtailed Sammons was also stung by share- holders who openly criticized her use of expensive private jets that cost shareholders $ 87,265 in 2009 and a whopping $207,733 in 2008. Under questioning from one shareholder, Sammons admitted that some of her flights were for “personal use” and had nothing to do with official com- pany business, although she declined to say how much was spent for those personal trips. And Sammons wasn’t the only executive billing Rite Aid for flying on private jets; five other execu- tives spent a total of $247,944 on the luxury jets in 2008 and 2009. Rite Aid officials even allowed an official to fly on private jets at Rite Aid’s expense after he no longer worked there. While Rite Aid officials showed no hesitation firing workers at the Lan- caster Distribution Center for support- ing the union, the company has been rewarding executives who fall short with hefty “golden parachutes” involv- ing millions of dollars. One angry shareholder noted that the company Signing for Solidarity: Rally participants signed this giant “postcard” to send a message of solidarity and support from paid a massive severance of $3,307,500 workers at the New York City rally to workers at the Rite Aid distribution center in Lancaster, CA. to one executive who worked only 6 DISPATCHER • July/August 2009 briefly at Rite Aid, and $3,150,000 to another executive who decided to leave the company. That shareholder won a round of applause with his conclu- sion that Rite Aid has been giving away gigantic severance packages as though it were the “82nd Airborne of golden parachutes.” Proposal to control executive pay narrowly defeated A shareholder resolution that would require management to submit executive compensation packages to a non-binding vote by shareholder vote fell short by a small margin. The reso- lution was filed by the New York City Office of the Comptroller on behalf of the $107 billion New York City Employees’ Retirement System and New York City Teachers’ Retirement System. The reform was supported by representatives of the AFL-CIO and Teamsters Union, and opposed by CEO Mary Sammons, other executives, and the Board of Directors. “Rite Aid’s model for CEO pay is clearly broken,” said Louis Malizia, a Teamsters Union official who attended the meeting. “A say on CEO pay would tie compensation at Rite Aid to long- term value creation and good corporate governance.” Besides having a big impact at the shareholder meeting, the message about union-busting and mismanage- ment at Rite Aid reached an audience Time For Change: The rally in Times Square was sponsored by the New York City Central Labor Council, which represents 1.3 million workers. Important support for the rally and shareholder meeting was provided by the AFL-CIO’s Center for Strategic of millions on television, radio and Research and Office of Investment. internet.

“In the morning before the rally happened at the shareholder meeting. and shareholder meeting, we went “It’s good to know that so many people live on the Democracy Now TV pro- support us, including the sharehold- gram with Amy Goodman,” explained ers, because all of us want Rite Aid to Angel Warner. “At the rally, we spoke succeed by treating people the right with several radio reporters who did way,” said employee David Sotelo. reports, and after the meeting we taped a TV interview with Laura Flan- ders that was also seen all over the country.” The television and radio reports all noted that the battle at Rite Aid’s Lan- caster Distribution Center has become a “poster child” for the Employee Free Choice Act that’s being debated in Congress to reform outdated labor laws and make it possible for workers to join unions without fear of being fired or threatened. Solidarity comes back to Lancaster One week after the New York City events, Rite Aid workers in Lancaster displayed the giant solidarity “post- Taking It To the Top: During the shareholder meeting, Rite Aid worker An- card” outside their warehouse and gel Warner criticized the company’s anti-union tactics. After the meeting, she spoke personally with CEO Mary Sammons and urged the company to work together with passed out flyers explaining what had employees in Lancaster to reach a fair contract.

Steady As She Goes continued from page 3 113 Steuart Street, the landmark San of union leadership and the huge sacri- died in 2008, was considered by some There were also resolutions in sup- Francisco building that was Ground fices it requires. John Tousseau, Local to be “the conscience of the union.” port of Hawaiian hotel workers (R-22) Zero for Bloody Thursday, into a labor 63; Richard Cavalli, Local 34; and Jack The resolution noted her unique con- and employees of the Pacific Beach history museum and labor education Wyatt Sr, Warehouse Local 17 received tributions and her commitment to Hotel in Waikiki, who have had two and training center (R-17); and rec- heartfelt farewells from longtime com- advancing the causes of women in the elections in three years, a decertifica- ognition of the 60th Anniversary of rades. “Keep the fire going. Keep fight- union. This, the ILWU 34th Interna- tion attempt, and had a majority of the 1949 Hawaii dock strike (R-21), ing those sons of bitches. God bless tional Convention, was dedicated to Ah their negotiating committee fired. the 157-day strike that won Hawai- you all. God bless the ILWU,” said Quon McElrath, a courageous, outspo- Although they had a full plate, ian longshore workers parity with the Tousseau. ken force of change who, as Sec-Treas. delegates were mindful of the impor- West Coast. And finally, there was a resolution Willie Adams put it, “would rather light a candle than curse the darkness.” tance of preserving the union’s his- Heartfelt farewells (R-24) honoring the memory of Ah Quon McElrath, the fiery Local 142 tory, calling for a campaign to raise Several resolutions honored retiring member who was a fierce and eloquent funds for the University of Wash- leaders for their years of service, recog- advocate of the ILWU. McElrath, who ington labor archives (R-34); to turn nizing the tremendous responsibilities

DISPATCHER • July/August 2009 7 Los Angeles Wants Free Choice: Up to 500 workers and community supporters, among them Rite Aid workers and members of ILWU Local 13, thronged the streets in front of Senator Dianne Feinstein’s Los Angeles of- fice June 3 to protest the senator’s position on the Employee Free Choice Act. Feinstein remains the only Democratic member of the California Congressional Delegation who has yet to support the legislation. The Free Choice Act would ease the path into the middle class for thousands of Americans by making it easier for them to join unions, earn better wages and get health and retirement benefits. President Obama has pledged to sign the Act into law if it reaches his desk.

Thanks For the Memories: After 16 years of dedicated service the inimitable Jean Ordano stepped down as Federated President and was given special recognition by the Convention for three decades of steadfast work for the ILWU and Federated Auxiliaries. Jean will now serve as Area Vice President for Canada. Sisterhood Is Powerful: While the International Convention was taking place in Seattle, 60 miles away New Federated Auxiliary officers elected are Carolyn in Olympia the 34th Biennial Convention of the ILWU Federated Auxiliaries was meeting in high spirits. Auxiliary Williams, President; Debbie McLain, Vice President; Judy delegates from Canada, Washington, Oregon and California confirmed their solidarity with the locals and delivered Rowley, Treasurer; and Pat Marks, Secretary. The other reports on their many activities and good works of the past two years. Delegates also passed resolutions supporting Area Vice Presidents are JoAlice Swindle, California; Rite Aid warehouse workers in their fight to obtain a contract; demanding that veterans receive timely notification Kathy Gorda, Oregon; and Pat Dunlap, Washington. of all entitlements and benefits; and opposing federal taxation of health care benefits.

Solidarity Stories On Sale Harvey Schwartz’s new book, Solidarity Stories: An Oral History of the ILWU, is now on sale. This inspiring collection of first-hand accounts from ILWU union leaders and rank-and-file workers paints a vivid portrait of the union’s past and present. Available for $17 each, including shipping and handling. Make check or money order out to “ILWU” and mail to Triumphant Return: Forty-eight Rite Aid workers who were illegally fired last No- 1188 Franklin St, vember from Rite Aid’s distribution center in Lancaster, Calif. were welcomed back to work San Francisco, CA on June 8 after the Labor Board forced the company to rehire them. A welcoming party 94109. Price includes greeted the returnees with cheers, high-fives, hot coffee and union stickers. Though Rite Aid warehouse workers voted to join the ILWU a year ago they are still without a contract. shipping and handling. Labor expert Kate Bronfenbrenner has called the Rite Aid fight a “textbook example” of why Congress needs to pass the Employee Free Choice Act.

8 DISPATCHER • July/August 2009 MEMBERS SPEAK OUT

Asked at the 34th International Convention in Seattle, WA. Why do you think the convention is important to the union?

“The convention brings all of us together so that we can meet and communicate. It gives us all a chance to understand what each region’s or local’s issues are so that we can think outside of the fishbowl and work toward common goals and common issues and take part in discussions surrounding organizing and funding. Organizing is a huge part of what we have to do to survive, and it’s hard in these economic times. I really Hungry for Justice: On June 3 community members staged a two-day fast out- sympathize with the officers and with the Coast Committee. Money’s tight side Sen. Dianne Feinstein’s San Francisco office to support the Employee Free Choice Act, a union-friendly bill that would allow workers to form unions if a majority of em- right now, there’s not a lot of work, and everybody’s looking to pinch pennies. ” ployees sign cards. Fasters aimed to turn up the heat on Sen. Feinstein (D-Calif.), who Chuck Wendt, Alaska Longshore Division previously supported the bill but recently caved to pressure from the business lobby. Seward, AK

“The convention lets the workers make decisions and participate in the process. The most important issues were the Employee Free Choice Act and the importance of organizing the unorganized—not to mention the celebration of the 75th anniversary. Since this was my second convention I understood more of the resolutions and the whole voting process.” Christina Leblanc, Local 26 Carson, CA

“The most important thing that’s being accom- plished here is understanding the reality factor of the worldwide economic situation; that we’re all in the same dire straits. We can all see the different efforts we have to make to try and correct the situation, and we can see where Green and Blue: Laura Hahn of the Sierra Club (front left) brought some of her we’re going in the next few years. To me one volunteers and co-workers to support Blue Diamond workers Randy Reyes (front right) of the most important things is that every and Frank Garcia, and ILWU organizer Agustin Ramirez during their fast. The Sierra delegate can go back and tell their membership Club has been a strong supporter of the Employee Free Choice Act. that we realize we’re not the only ones who are having hard times.” Tim Footman, Local 500 Vancouver, BC

“You get to see democracy at its best. We’re really coming together to see what other parts of our union are doing and how they’re accom- plishing it and how it reaches us. It’s so nice to see people really rally together; I’m from a tiny island of maybe 50,000 people, and to come here to a convention where we have people from all over the United States—it’s just a tremendous feeling to be part of it. It’s made me so proud to be a union member for the ILWU.” Alanna Agustin, Local 142 Kauai, HI

Card Check: Supporters and passersby wrote messages on index cards and tied them to a bouquet of white roses in front of the fasters’ hut.

75th Anniversary Poster Now On Sale The new poster commemorating the 75th anniversary of the 1934 longshore and maritime strike is now available for purchase by individuals and affiliates. Designed by the ILWU Titled Officers and staff from archival photographs and produced by Richard Bermack, thecolor poster is printed on heavyweight glossy paper and measures 30x20 inches. The design blends images from 1934 and 2002 (color photo by Tom Price, former assistant editor of The Dis- patcher) and is available by mail order from the ILWU library for $5, including shipping and handling. Affiliates wanting larger quantities can place bulk orders in lots of 200 copies for $350, including shipping and handling. Please make check or money order out to ILWU and send to: Poster Sale, ILWU Library, 188 Franklin St., 4th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94109. For more information, email [email protected].

DISPATCHER • July/August 2009 9 34th International Convention

Portrait of a Convention: The convention representatives included 36 delegates from Northern California; 42 from Southern California; six from Southern California Mining Industry; 20 from Oregon/Columbia River; 24 from Puget Sound; 117 from Hawaii; 16 from Canada; 23 from the Inlandboatmen’s Union; 10 from Alaska; four Titled Officers and 26 fraternal delegates.

Next In Line: Terri Mast, IBU, gives a fist bump to her nephew, Mahal Anderson, 2 ½. Mahal is the great-grandson of Nemesio Domingo, All Mine, All the Time: Local 30, the miners of Boron, brought a resolution asking the Interna- the legendary Filipino labor activist and president of IBU Local 37 who tional to support them in their upcoming contract negotiations with employer Rio Tinto, a multinational died in 1991. company hostile to unions.

Organize! Local 142 delegate Lance Kamada is a coordinator of Justice at the Beach, a grassroots coalition of labor unions and community groups supporting workers at the Pacific Beach Hotel in Waikiki. Over two dozen Pacific Beach workers who supported the union have lost their jobs. “I recommend that more of us Pacific Rim Solidarity: Wesley Furtado, Vice-President get involved in organizing because we have to understand what National Solidarity: Delegates gave a stand- Hawaii, signs the ILWU-Zenkowan Unity Statement. Furtado noted our fathers went through to build the union,” Kamada told con- ing ovation to ILA Vice President Ken Riley’s call for a that President Itoh played a key role in the Pacific Beach Hotel fight, vention delegates. “It’s up to us to keep the union alive today.” North American Dockworkers Caucus. Riley is President asking Japanese unionists to sign on to a letter to travel agencies in of ILA Local 1442 in Charleston, South Carolina. support of the Pacific Beach workers.

10 DISPATCHER • July/August 2009 34th International Convention 75 years

Next In Line: Terri Mast, IBU, gives a fist bump to her nephew, Mahal Anderson, 2 ½. Mahal is the great-grandson of Nemesio Domingo, the legendary Filipino labor activist and president of IBU Local 37 who died in 1991. Voice of a Movement: Retiring Local 63 member John Tousseau treated delegates to a farewell performance of his song, “The Ballad of An Old Longshoreman.” The restless chatter that had filled the corners of the room evapo- rated into silence as he sang.

Washington State Governor Renewing Unity: Akinobu Itoh, president of Yes We Can: Christine Gregoire displays her 75th anniversary the All-Japan Dockworkers’ Union (Zenkowan), told poster, signed by the four living ILWU presidents. Pacific Rim Solidarity: Wesley Furtado, Vice-President delegates that unions have to work together to fight Gov. Gregoire, a strong advocate of the Employee Hawaii, signs the ILWU-Zenkowan Unity Statement. Furtado noted the corporations that seek to control global logistics. Free Choice Act, told delegates that the Obama that President Itoh played a key role in the Pacific Beach Hotel fight, Zenkowan and the ILWU has been solidarity partners Administration has given her more hope and asking Japanese unionists to sign on to a letter to travel agencies in for more than 50 years, and they formally renewed optimism than she’s felt in years. support of the Pacific Beach workers. their Unity Statement at the convention.

DISPATCHER • July/August 2009 11 Candidate statements

INTERNATIONAL MAINLAND HAWAII VICE-PRESIDENT SECRETARY-TREASURER in a major way in this country and on OFFICERS VICE-PRESIDENT the waterfront. The present economic crisis is the worst we have seen in our PRESIDENT lives. Our work on the waterfront has been reduced between 20-40% on the West Coast, depending on the port. The ILWU was born out of the depression in the 1930s and we have been tested over and over again by the employers and this government. The ILWU stands strong today and the key Willie Adams, Local 23 Wesley “Wes” Furtado, Local 142 to our future is the unity of our mem- Ray A. Familathe, Local 13 My name is Wesley “Wes” Furtado and Brothers and Sisters of the ILWU: bership. I am proud to say this is my 21st year I am seeking re-election as your ILWU With great honor and humility In 2008, I was honored to be selected in the ILWU. For the last 16 years I’ve International Vice President-Hawaii I’m seeking my third term as Inter- by this Division to be Co-Chairman of national Secretary-Treasurer of this Robert “Big Bob” McEllrath, Local 4 worked throughout the world expand- RANK AND FILE EXPERIENCE: As the Negotiating Committee for the 2008 ing our international relations and soli- a rank-and-file union member of the great union. I’m looking forward to contract. Your president, Bob McEll- Brothers and Sisters of the ILWU: darity. I currently serve as International Longshore industry I gained experience talking with and seeing our member- rath, led this committee in achieving a I am honored and proud to have Affairs Director for the Longshore Divi- as a shop steward and negotiating com- ship as I hit the campaign trail, and good contract and I was proud to sit the opportunity to serve a second sion and International. I have worked mittee member. It was these experiences calling upon all ILWU members that in the “second seat” and support him. term as your International President. under the direction of International that ignited my passion for unionism we must recapture our spirit of endur- In these negotiations, our bargaining I truly appreciate the support I have Presidents David Arian, Brian McWil- and helping fellow members. ance and optimism. It is the struggle committee made sure to maintain, and been given and the confidence that that shapes us, and it is the struggle liams, James Spinosa, Robert McEllrath, ORGANIZER: From the 1980s to even enhance, the gains made in prior the members have placed in me. The we must shape. I’m very clear that my and the International Executive Board. 2000s we helped organize large num- contracts to protect our families in the ILWU has been a part of my life since work is still not complete, and the fire During the 2002 and 2008 Longshore bers of workers into our union. Those way of medical coverage, pensions, I was young when my father got his still burns in my guts and the passion contract negotiations I coordinated our workers were employed at hotels, jurisdiction, and working conditions. registration. I was fortunate to get in my soul. solidarity efforts worldwide with the golf courses, agriculture companies, In 2008, we achieved important into the Longshore Division in 1969 International Transport Workers Fed- transportation companies, maritime My varied ILWU experience contract improvements for the next six and I have never looked back. eration (ITF) and International Dock- companies and more. Working with a includes Longshore Caucus delegate years. The contract usually gives us a During the 134-day strike in 1971, workers Council (IDC) which helped lot of different people from all differ- for 10 years; four times convention breathing period, but not this time. The I learned to be prepared in case we our Longshore division on the main- ent backgrounds and cultures taught delegate (2000, 2003, 2006, 2009); PMA has come at this division twice in needed to strike again and that this land secure successful contracts. But me a lot about my fellow union mem- Chairman of the Coast Jurisdiction the last six months to modify what they preparedness is another strength before all this, I began my career work- bers. As part of the Hawaii organizing Committee; member of the Coast Leg- agreed to in the contract. The leader- of our union. I attended the union ing at a rail yard facility in Southern department, we led many organiz- islative Action Committee with 10 ship of this division and the Caucus has meetings, worked with and listened California. ing campaigns and assisted with first years of service in Washington D.C.; repeatedly told the employers that they to the “Old Timers,” and learned the In 1987 the ILWU had just won campaigns and contract renewals in member of the International Execu- must live up to the contract as agreed. principals and history of our union. an organizing drive at the newly built tourism, general trades, agriculture tive Board and IEB trustee; and for the We will continue to protect what we I count myself fortunate to have met $54 million ICTF rail yard in the ports companies and the maritime indus- last six years, I’ve served as your Inter- achieved in 2008 and prior contracts. and heard our founder, Harry Bridges, of Los Angeles and Long Beach. The try. Although my personal role has national Secretary-Treasurer. With an ever-changing industry and when he spoke at meetings during my 175 workers overwhelmingly elected changed over the years (from orga- On the world stage on behalf of new technologies, including robotics younger years. for ILWU representation. I was hired nizer, to Business Agent, to Inter- the ILWU I have traveled to Australia, that may reduce our workforce num- Being elected caucus delegate in the shortly after the election in 1988. The national Representative, to Interna- Brazil, Holland, Germany, Belgium, bers in the future, it’s more important mid-‘80s, I have been at every conven- workers were excited about the future tional Vice-President) my passion South Africa, Vietnam, Singapore and than ever that the ILWU and its rank- tion and caucus since, watching our and their new contract with Local to strengthen and expand our union Cuba. I have rolled up my sleeves, and-file stay abreast of coming changes ILWU history unfold. I have served 13’s Allied Division. In 1989 I was remains strong. and have worked with all divisions of and analyze our options and strategies the union as a Coast Committeeman elected Business Agent representing HAWAII ORGANIZING: As Interna- our union. I have worked without rest well in advance of future contract bar- for four years, and been the Interna- this unit which had grown from 175 tional Vice President Hawaii, we have pounding the pavement in Washing- gaining. We must move the industry tional Vice-President for six years, to 300 workers. I experienced many worked hard to adapt and improve ton D.C. to continue to build relation- forward with technology advance- before being elected President three challenges to building this unit which how our union operates. In Hawaii ships with key players in both parties ments and more efficient methods to years ago. required the need to educate shop we have adopted a strategic organiz- to raise the profile of the ILWU and keep the West Coast ports attractive I was elected to Small Port Nego- stewards on grievance handling and ing strategy that has greatly improved to give our union more clout. I have and help bring back trade volumes tiator for the Longshore Master Agree- arbitrations to better serve the mem- our success and efficiency. This trien- devoted my time and energy to educa- through our ports. At the same time, ment in 1993 and again in 1996. In bership. In late 1991 Southern Pacific nium has yielded high success rate tion programs, knowing we are nur- we must remain extra vigilant against 1999 as a Coast Committeeman, I Railroad, still bitter over the ILWU for organizing campaigns and achiev- turing our next generation of leaders the employers’ increasing use of super- was elected Co-chair for the negotiat- securing jurisdiction a mere four miles ing first contracts for newly organized who will take us even further. I also intendents to perform our work, espe- ing committee, and in 2002 as Vice from the ports of Los Angeles and Long ILWU members. I personally negoti- feel that we must do all within our cially when it is a subterfuge to reduc- President of the International was Co- Beach, used their power and influence ated agreements to organize new units might to raise the bar in organizing ing our ranks. The employers often cry Chair of the Contract Bargaining, and along with the city, state, and federal in the maritime industry and assisted because the ILWU and labor move- poverty, yet they have hired more and in 2008 as the ILWU president I was politicians to justify their “Lockout” with a hotel organizing campaign and ment must survive and grow; there is more superintendents to micromanage the Negotiating Committee Chairman. of the ILWU workforce. This struggle setting the tone for the first contract no other option. our work! I also chaired the Shipboard Grain and received tremendous support from negotiations. Many of our members are hurting The key issues and challenges for the the entire ILWU family but was unfor- In-House Grain Negotiations in the LONGSHORE NEGOTIATIONS: today. We’re experiencing job losses, next three years will be: tunately lost. I am proud to say that Pacific Northwest, and assisted in the Over the last 12 months I was directly layoffs, and less work at the ports, • Protecting our pension and health many workers that endured this strug- All Alaska Longshore Negotiations and involved with the Hawaii Longshore so all of us are in some kind of pain. care benefits; the Local 5 Powell’s Book negotiations. gle have moved up in the ILWU ranks The economic recession is giving us Division Committee contract negotia- • Ensuring that our Section 1 work I served as an officer under three of the in various divisions/units and are our a wakeup call. It’s clear that as mem- tions with Longshore and Inter-island is protected for longshore and five presidents the ILWU has had in its leaders today. bers of the ILWU, we need to reach Barge operation employers. Hawaii clerks; 75-year history, giving me the experi- Having worked for many years as a Longshore agreements cover Long- beyond the anxiety and the depres- • Ensuring that the employers turn ence and the knowledge to lead this casual longshoreman I was registered shore, Clerks, Mechanics and CFS-CY. sion of the last eight years and get over the M&R work that we gained union through the term ahead. to Class B Longshore status in 1995 Inter-island Barge agreements cover back to our strengths. We must be in 2008; Our nation is in a recession nearly with Local 13. Since then I have been Longshore, Clerks, Mechanics, and adept at finding opportunity in adver- as deep as the Great Depression, and elected to the Executive Board, Cau- Office Clerks. sity. The threats to our very existence, • Protecting our members in regard cus/Convention Delegate and Business and consequently, that of our fami- to the TWIC card; employers are using this as an oppor- POLITICAL ACTION: In addition Agent. I also worked with the ILWU’s lies, are the driving force behind us tunity to try and whittle at the negoti- to grassroots education and mobilizing • Fighting for a national health care Organizing Department to organize rebuilding our union to make it even ated gains in all sections of our union. we lobby elected officials on national plan and the Employee Free the LAXT Coal Terminal in the Port of stronger. And today, Brothers, Sisters, I can assure you I will lead based on and local levels and educate them Choice Act; Los Angeles. the present stands side by side with my experience, my sense of right, on the interests of working people • Continuing to build international history; 75 years later we’re still here. and with input from the rank and My passion for organizing work- and the labor movement. Grassroots relations and solidarity. file. We must continue to build our ers comes from working with the efforts of union members in home Thank you for your support and I International relationships as well as ITF Flags of Convenience Campaign districts make our political action pro- LONGSHORE DIVISION ask for your vote once again. being a strong voice for labor in the fighting for the rights of seafarers gram effective. I can tell you that the United States. We must be fair and that come from developing countries contributions and efforts of individual Coast Committee right within our union, treat Locals who are exploited by ship owners. I members make government officials California equitably and minimize anything that get excited reading our rich history truly listen when we meet them face- divides us and weakens the structure written by great leaders and organiz- to-face to discuss issues with them. of our organization. ers like Harry Bridges, Lou Goldblatt, If re-elected I will do my best to con- Jack Hall and Ah Quon McElrath. We need to educate our members tinue fighting to protect the gains that to understand and maintain our his- I have worked with most all of we have earned together and to orga- tory and loyalty as opposed to forcing the locals/divisions of the ILWU and nize new members into our union. the union to spend countless hours Canada. I believe we need strong local John Kavanaugh, Local 29 and huge sums of money fighting unions and a strong national labor within. My goal is to keep our union movement, but the key to all this in Brothers and Sisters: strong, clean, and focused on the the global economy is having an inter- My name is John Kavanaugh and I Ray Ortiz Jr., Local 13 greater good for the greater number national program and network. I have am a candidate for the Southern Coast of our members. Again, I thank you helped to build the ILWU’s for 16 In 1997, 2000, 2003, and 2006, the Committeeman position. We have just for your support. An injury to one is years. My work has prepared me to Longshore Division rank-and-file sup- negotiated one of the best contracts in an injury to all. take the next step by asking for your ported me for the office of Coast Com- the history of the ILWU, and an effective vote for International Vice President, mitteeman. I now respectfully ask for administration for this contract is cru- Mainland. your support again. cial during these harsh economic times. Since 2006, things have changed 12 DISPATCHER • July/August 2009 Candidate statements

My experience with the water- employers are panicking, and they are • 2008 Contract Negotiation Comm. • ILWU Local #23 President, 2004- front began in San Pedro, California. not paying attention to the health of • 1997, 2000, 2003 & 2006 Grain present I grew up just blocks from the docks the industry or the traditional rela- Handlers Agreement Negotiation With your support I will continue and I attended Barton Hill Elementary tionships that have moved us forward. Comm. to do my best to serve the ILWU. School, Dana Junior High and Fer- Today, everything that the employers • 2005 Ship Board Contract In Solidarity, Conrad Spell

min Lasuen High School. I continued do is directly related to the quarterly Negotiation Comm. my education while working on the bottom line. • Coast Port Security Comm. Oregon/Columbia River waterfront by obtaining a Bachelor of In 2009, the Negotiating Com- • Coast Public Relations Comm. Science Degree from the University of mittee bargained an Agreement that John Philbrook, Local 21 San Francisco and a Masters Degree in included jurisdictional gains and pen- • Coast Lost Years Comm. Business Administration (MBA) from sion, health, and welfare improve- • Co-Chair of Coast Cruise Ships The IEB (International Executive the University of Redlands. ments. We were lucky to complete Comm. Board) is the highest governing body In 1969, I became a member of the negotiations before anyone realized • Chairman of Puget Sound Area LRC of our great Union and I would be honored to receive your vote for this ILWU. Container Freight Stations were that a severe economic downturn was • Convention/Caucus Delegate Local position. I’m a third-generation long- opening on the waterfront and more upon us. 19, 2003 to Present shoreman from Local 21 in Longview. manning would be required. A short Our problem now is that the ben- • President Local 19, Aug. 2004 to Since I became registered in 1995, I time later I experienced a strike lasting efit plans are funded only by those Jan. 2009 have spent a majority of my personal 105 days. I observed the effectiveness PMA employers that are moving cargo • Puget Sound District Council Delegate James D. Daw, Local 8 time serving the ILWU. I have dedi- of an organized picket line and wit- and only to the extent of the volume I was registered as class “B” long- cated this time to maintaining and nessed firsthand the solidarity that was moved. As such, cargo and man hours • Past Board of Director Waterfront shoremen in Local 8 in April of 1980, improving Longshore jurisdiction with created when rank and file members are effectively taxed on a real-time Federal Credit Union elevated to Class “A” nine years later. proven results at the local level and at demonstrated together. Although, my basis to pay current and future ben- As the ILWU continues to evolve, I have been elected to many positions the highest governing body for the participation was limited to picketing, efits. The tax, or assessment, is levied it is important to adapt to the envi- in Local 8 including Executive Board, Longshore Division; the 2008 Nego- I realized that actively contributing on a per-unit basis. This means that ronment in which we live and work. Vice President, Earnings Clerk, Con- tiating Committee. I believe through by serving the union on committees if only one employer moves one con- We need to realize that the methods vention Delegate, Longshore Caucus this experience I am ready to serve would be needed in the future. Since tainer with one longshoreman, that we used in the past, which brought us Delegate and Parliamentarian. I have the whole International through the then, we have faced many changes employer is responsible for the entire great successes, now require creative served on Local 8‘s Rules committee IEB. If elected I look to improve com- and challenges that involve container- present and future cost of the ben- thinking, as well as using a variety and many others. I represented Local munication with area locals for input ization, new technologies, mechaniza- efit plans for everyone. An employer of tools and techniques to navigate 8 on the Oregon Columbia River and actions taken by the IEB. Again, tion, on-dock rails, M&R and the loss who moved cargo during good times the global workplace. We must never Organizing committee as Secretary- I would appreciate your vote and look of container freight stations. and paid relatively lower unit costs change our 10 guiding principles; and Treasurer during International Presi- forward to continued service for our In the past our contract in many now pays nothing if that employer no must continue to protect our workers dent David Arian’s administration, Union. ways patterned the ILA contract. longer moves cargo. During the 2008 and be an outspoken champion for where we were involved in several We have for some time lifted the bar contract negotiations, the Negotiating the working class. • August 1995: Registered “B” organizing campaigns. I have worked through contract negotiations, obtain- Committee made efforts to address The ILWU must continue to reach Longshoreman with Jobs with Justice and attended ing the best safety standards and juris- problems with the assessment pro- out globally to our sisters and brothers • Fall 1995 to 1999: Supervisory their national convention in Miami. diction language. We must continue cess, but those efforts were rebuffed to join forces to battle the multinational Committee, Lower Columbia to fight all threats to the well being of by PMA. Following the end of nego- corporations. Politically, we must con- As a Longshore Caucus delegate Longshoreman’s Federal Credit our union. tiations, the Coast Committee made tinue to stay active and work to elect I have been elected as Parliamentar- Union ian. I have also served on many Coast The Coast Committeeman position, additional attempts to intercede in the rank-and-file members to office. As we • 1998 to 2001: Secretary/Treasurer, Committee subcommittees such as I believe, would provide the opportu- assessment process. Again, we were have learned in the past, just because ILWU Local 21 Port Security, Public Relations, Long- nity to ensure the contractual rights rebuffed by PMA. they are Democrats, doesn’t mean they • 1999 to present: Board of Directors, shore and Clerks Technology and for members of the ILWU. My college In normal times it doesn’t mat- will act in our best interests. Lower Columbia Longshoreman’s Jurisdiction. For the 2002 contract I credentials combined with my work ter. Harry Bridges used to say, we The ILWU is founded on the prin- Federal Credit Union was the coordinator for activities with experience have enabled me to effec- demand the benefit and leave it to the ciple, “An injury to one is an injury to the ILWU and AFL-CIO, also com- • 1999 to 2004: Chairman, tively represent our members. I have employers to figure out how to pay all.” As rank and file, we are at our best munications and Public Relations. Longview Longshore Charity Golf served on the grievance committee, for it. However, this unprecedented when we carry this motto in our hearts I participated in the 2004 legislative Tournament, (to date: raised over the executive board, and labor rela- economic downturn demonstrates and through our actions. It would be conference in DC. I was on the 2008 $10,000 for Cowlitz County RIF tions committees. I have been a dis- that the employers’ method of pay- an honor to be your elected represen- ILWU Longshore and Clerks Con- (Reading Is Fundamental) patcher, a business agent and a caucus ment does impact us. It impacts us in tative to the International Executive tract negotiation committee. I have a • 2002 to 2004: Secretary/Treasurer, delegate in Locals 63 and Local 29. I that it artificially drives up real labor Board and fight to uphold the princi- seat on the Coast Guard’s AMSC (Area Cowlitz-Wahkiakum Central Labor worked as a committee member on costs. That means that we can expect ples that have made us strong. Maritime Security Committee). Council, AFL-CIO the container freight committee, and to see increasing efforts by both PMA Yours in Solidarity, Herald Ugles These are a few of the positions I • 2003 to 2008: Health and Welfare I also participated on the Safety Com- employers and non-PMA employers have held and the committees I have Officer, ILWU Local 21 pliance Committee in Los Angeles and to do everything possible to avoid served on. I will continue to serve the Long Beach. I was one of the first rail employing ILWU longshore workers • Summer/Fall 2004: Labor Neighbor planners, and helped establish yard and clerks. ILWU. If elected to the International Southwest Washington Area Executive Board (IEB) I will com- planning. As part of the effort to avoid Coordinator (Political Action for municate with all locals prior to and We find ourselves, through no fault employing ILWU longshore work- Washington State Labor Council) after IEB meetings. Therefore I ask all of our own, in tough economic times. ers and clerks, we will see increasing • 2005 to 2007: President, Cowlitz- ILWU members of the Oregon Colum- We are facing an employer who is attempts to circumvent our jurisdic- Wahkiakum Central Labor Council, bia River Area for your support and committed to cutting jobs with the tion in small ports generally and in AFL-CIO your vote for the International Execu- use of outsourcing tactics. Foreman, the area of clerk and M&R work par- • 2005 to 2008: President, ILWU tive Board. mechanics and longshoremen are now ticularly. That attack will come using Max Vekich Jr., Local 52 Local 21 No statement submitted. experiencing what clerks endured stimulus money to construct compet- • 2005 to present: Pension & when technology came to the water- ing non-union facilities. It will come Welfare Committee, Area front. Effective contract administra- using other unions such as the IAM, Representative, ILWU tion is crucial to our continued suc- IBEW, and the Iron Workers. It will • 2007 to present: Area Chairman, cess. My goal is to enforce and protect even come from inside our family as Oregon/Columbia River Area our hard fought contractual rights. I the employers try to pit us against the have the education, credentials and OCU, the IBU, and the Warehouse • March-August 2008: Longshore 40 years of experience to get the job Locals. Division Negotiating Committee done. I need your vote. Protecting our jurisdiction must Submitted in Solidarity be the primary function of the Coast Conrad F. Spell, Local 23 George O’Neil, Local 40 John Kavanaugh Committee in the next three years. Dear Brothers and Sisters, Brothers and Sisters: Good wages and benefits can only be It has been an honor and a great sustained if we protect our right to It’s been an honor and privilege to Coast Committee learning experience representing the perform all ship and dock work. have served as an International Exec- Northwest utive Board member for the past six Columbia River the last three years on INTERNATIONAL years and I am seeking re-election. the International Executive Board. EXECUTIVE BOARD My longshore career began in 1976 I have been a trustee for the IEB which taught me the inner workings of as a casual worker on the Tacoma Ryan Takas, Local 5 Washington/Puget Waterfront. I was elevated to “B” sta- the International’s financials. I appreci- ate the hard work of the titled officers Fellow ILWU Members: Sound tus in 1986, and after receiving “A” registration in 1992 began serving the and how they make sure our money is At the 2009 ILWU Convention in Seattle, WA, it was my honor to be union as an elected officer. not wasted. Listed below are the offices I’ve held Also, I served on the sub-committee nominated for International Execu- in the ILWU: to oversee the organizing department. tive Board (IEB) Representative for the Columbia River District. As an ILWU Leal “Leo” Sundet, Local 8 • Local #23 Executive Board, 1994- We have made changes, patterning the member since 2000, I have had the present department after Hawaii’s. I am your incumbent Northwest opportunity to participate in many In Local 40 I am the Chief Dispatcher Coast Committeeman. I was nomi- • Local #23 Labor Relations facets of ILWU life. I have been a and Convention/Caucus Delegate. I’m nated for a second term by your elected Committee, 1997-2000 Convention Delegate three times; Vice delegates at the recent Coast Longshore also on the Oregon Area District Council. • Local #23 Caucus Delegate, President of the Oregon Area District Division Caucus held in Seattle. We have four members running for 1998-present Council; Vice President and Business Like the economy at large, the two positions. I am confident any of Herald Ugles, Local 19 • Northwest Area Grain Negotiations, Agent of ILWU Local 5; Lead Negotia- Longshore Division is experiencing 1999-present the four would do a great job. “Please tor for bargaining with Powell’s Books the worst economic downturn in its It has been an honor to serve on vote.” It is too important not to. • International Executive Board, and Aramark; Jobs with Justice Del- 75-year history. The challenges that the following committees and elected In solidarity, George O’Neil egate; “salt” for the ILWU Organizing positions: 2003-present we are facing are unprecedented. The continued on page 14 DISPATCHER • July/August 2009 13 Candidate statements contionued from page 13 tion need. These all translate into badly recognition for strength, democracy, strive to adapt to the ever-changing like to get the word out to ALL our Department; picket line walker for needed jobs. We are in a fight to ensure and progressive thought has led the industrial and political climates that fellow locals of the ILWU concerning ILWU area standards pickets; hot dog that Southern California is the seaport debate in working-class issues. With we live in. Local 30 and our upcoming negotia- slinger at Bloody Thursday and tons of choice and longshore and ware- the proper leadership and resolve In conclusion, I believe I possess tions for our contract that is ending of other ILWU picnic events. To say house locals must be the labor doing for unity, the ILWU will continue the experience, education and knowl- Nov. 4, 2009, and ask them as well as that I am passionately involved with the work. to set the standard for the future of edge required to perform the duties of you (Local 30) for support and soli- the ILWU would be the understate- Everything built from here on out strong unions and believes that as International Executive Board Mem- darity for Local 30 during this very ment of the year. will have to be greener and more envi- much as we have a responsibility to ber at a level expected by our mem- difficult time. If elected, I will bring this same ronmentally friendly. And jobs are the those people who came before us in bers. Thank you for your support. I ask you all to remember: “An level of passion and involvement to marker. As Southern California ports maintaining the ILWU tradition, it is Fraternally, John L. Fageaux Jr. injury to one is an injury to all.” the position. I will communicate, as are increasingly approached by envi- this generation’s duty to forge a new Thank you for your support! consistently and thoroughly as possi- ronmentalists, most of whom are not direction which will lead it to its next 75 years of prosperity and respect. ble, the interests and concerns of our even from here, our jobs will be at Northern California area to the IEB. I will be an advocate stake. Our port communities simply can’t afford to lose a single job. And for all ILWU Divisions by maintaining open communications with both the where we can create jobs, the better leadership as well as rank and file of for everyone. Jobs feed families. Thou- sands feed many families. What once each Local. I will solicit input prior to may have been a more rhetorically each IEB meeting and provide report- Luisa Gratz, Local 26 backs after. I will attend any and all based question of employment has meetings, pickets, or other events that taken on a more simplified direction; Dear Brothers and Sisters: a Local requests of me and provide housing, feeding, and protecting your We must prepare together to support wherever possible. Regard- loved ones, the most basic of needs. John L. Fageaux Jr., Local 63 strengthen our union, to protect our less of whether or not I am elected, I It doesn’t get any simpler than that. Brothers and Sisters of the ILWU, union contracts in all ILWU Divisions, René Ducroux, Local 34 will continue to give you, the ILWU My name is John L. Fageaux Jr. and and to protect the rights of our mem- My name is René Ducroux and I family, my very best. I am seeking a position on the Inter- bers against employers and corporate am running for the office of North- I ask that when you vote in this elec- national Executive Board representing assaults. Outsourcing, reduced and ern California Representative to the tion, you consider my obvious dedica- the Southern California area. First I loss of work opportunity has caused International Executive Board. I am tion to the ILWU and cast your vote would like to thank you for taking the great suffering to our members and currently President of Local 34, which for me, Ryan Takas, for IEB Represen- time to read my campaign statement their families and communities. We represents Marine Clerks and Office tative for the Columbia River District. and for allowing me to share with you must work hard to secure our future Clerical Workers in the San Francisco my experience and background. by protecting our accomplishments Bay Area and Delta. In 2002 I served today. Southern California Experience: I am a proud mem- as the Northern California Port Public Peter Peyton, Local 63 ber of ILWU Local 63 OCU. I am I am currently serving our union Relations Director during negotiations I have been a member of the ILWU currently serving as President of the on the International Executive Board and the Lockout. I have also served since 1985, coming in as a “B” mem- local, a position I have been elected as one of three representatives from as the Technology Business Agent for ber. Since then I have served Locals to for eight consecutive terms after the Southern California area. I am also Local 34 from 2003 through 2008 and 13 and 63 as an Officer and/or Execu- serving two terms as Vice President. serving ILWU membership as presi- as a member of the Coast Technology tive Board member of both Locals. I first became a member of the ILWU dent of Local 26, a position I have Committee. At the Coast level, I created, was a by way of Local 13 Allied Division in been elected to since 1984. I have also These are tough times for all of us, member of, or chaired almost all of the 1980s. Since that time I have held served as a steward, chief steward, and it is more important than ever to the major subcommittees within the a variety of different position in the president of our stewards’ council and protect our work jurisdiction and to Longshore Division of the ILWU. I ILWU such as Shop Steward, Griev- business agent. stay a unifying force representing the served on the 1999 Negotiating Com- ance Committee Member, Executive As president of Local 26 I negotiate interests of all workers. The body at Mike Mitre, Local 13 mittee and while working at both the Board Member, Vice President and contracts, prepare for grievance arbi- the 2009 International Convention I am running for the position of Local and Coast levels, created bud- President. trations and organize new members communicated many of the challenges International Executive Board deter- gets that made it possible to carry on Accomplishments: While serving into the ILWU. As a past president of the union faces and provided clear mined to retain and bring back as important ILWU programs in the areas as an officer of Local 63 OCU I have the ILWU Southern California Dis- direction. In the midst of unrelenting much cargo, discretionary and non-dis- of membership education, political negotiated dozens of contracts, all of trict Council (SCDC) I have lobbied, attacks by our employers the union is cretionary, as possible. For the ILWU, action, jurisdiction, and improvement which have resulted in substantial prepared legislation, conducted State in the process of changing the ways in increased imports means increased in working conditions. gains in wages, health and welfare of Calif. and Congressional hearings, which we handle our business, imple- jobs. The fact is, imports will not magi- On the jurisdictional front, I success- benefits, pensions, and most -impor and testified on behalf of the ILWU on menting new organizing strategies, cally reappear on our docks without fully led a campaign against privatiza- tantly JOB SECURITY! plant closings, health and safety and effectively managing our financial our solid involvement. The ILWU must tion at the LAXT facility in the L.A. Har- At a time when a lot of unions are other issues of concern to our mem- resources and improving our politi- be a presence and lobby in Washington bor thereby maintaining a harbor area losing membership by the thousands, bership. I am currently secretary-trea- cal and public relations responses to D.C., as we must create a relationship union prevailing wage standard and under my leadership we have increased surer of the SCDC. organizing, technology, outsourcing with the major players in showing that improving the air quality for the harbor the size of our membership by over Working for our union is challeng- and health care for all workers. ILWU effectiveness and efficiency is the area community and its workers. 80%. The majority of this growth has ing. It has been an honor to serve our The challenge now for the Interna- best. For our ILWU members and fami- I worked to develop and then come by way of organizing, which is union and members over the years tional Executive Board and Officers is lies, the future is directly linked to the chaired the ILWU’s Legislative Commit- something that has always been very and I look forward to continuing to to clearly communicate these strate- job we do, and how well we do it. tee, which built relations in Washing- important to me and my local. Over do so. gies and elicit greater participation The redesign and rebuild of Amer- ton D.C. in preparation for the ILWU’s the last few years we have organized In solidarity and fraternally, from the rank and file. The success ica’s seaports is a no-brainer; seaport 2002 Coastwise Contract negotiations, and brought under contract many Luisa Gratz of this union has and always will be a infrastructure and container facilities for which I spent six months in Wash- companies including the following: function of its rank-and-file solidarity including trucking and on-dock rail is both internally and internationally. ington while the Negotiating Commit- Hanjin Shipping, Hapag Lloyd, China Southern Cal. Mining a must and will determine the viability Shipping, COSCO Agencies, Support tee fought the Pacific Maritime Asso- Industry As your representative on the Inter- of our West Coast ports. In the old days ciation in San Francisco. I continue to Services International, COSCO Long national Executive Board, I will do all in it was the diversification of the fishing maintain those relations for the union’s Beach, Inchcape Shipping Services, my power to serve the membership of industry, canneries, and shipbuild- future. My work in Washington D.C. Consolidated Leasing and Terminals this great union. I appreciate your vote. ing. Today, we concentrate our efforts includes serving on the Marine Trans- Inc., Moran Shipping and Interocean around containerized imports. These portation System National Advisory Steamship Corp, to name a few. provide jobs and opportunities and Committee (MTSNAC), which advises Education & Training: I have been gave us big-time employment. the Secretary of Transportation on very fortunate in receiving a great deal We must work hard to attract every national transportation matters; addi- of education and training related to size, shape, and commodity of cargo tionally, I was selected, and continue to labor and our unique industry. Fol- shipped over the oceans both inside be the Chair for the MTSNAC Educa- lowing is a partial list of my industry and outside containers. Our towns tion Committee. related education and training. Bruce Wade, Local 30 are the solid environments they are Following the 2006 national elec- • Harvard University, Negotiating To all my brothers and sisters of ILWU because of the richness of our jobs, our tions, I worked on the strategy to help labor contracts 2002 and Local 30: Melvin Mackay, Local 10 housing, schools, and good neighbors. the ILWU build its Political Action Fund • University of Michigan, Negotiating I would like to take this time and The community and ports have helped I would be honored to serve on to be one of the nation’s top 100 politi- and Administering the Labor ask you for your vote and support for build and create jobs and infrastruc- the International Executive Board. cal action funds in preparation for the Contract 2005 International Executive Board repre- ture. Local multicultural, diverse, hard- I’ve served many terms as a Local 10 2008 Congressional and Presidential sentative for Local 30. I pledge to do working families settled here because • Labor Law and Arbitration Course officer where I’ve been elected by the elections, with an eye to “taking back the best job possible for all the mem- of the opportunity and our legacy lies 2003 & 2005 rank-and-file for the past five years. the House and Senate” and putting a bership of Local 30, as well as com- in doing our part to protect the founda- • Transpacific Maritime Conference I’ve served as a Business Agent (two Democrat back in the White House. municate with our Local 30 President tion of this. 2001, 2002, 2004, 2006, 2007 terms/four years), Local Executive My interest in serving my union and exchange ideas and information Board member (two terms/two years), I’ve served two previous terms on and 2008 stems from a strong family tie that needed to keep everyone informed. and currently serve as President where the Board and am running again for • International Legislative Conference includes family members in Locals 13, As to my involvement with Local I’m now in my second term. I’ve been the position of the ILWU Interna- in Washington, DC 2004 63, 94 and the Office Clerical Unit. 30, I have been a union safety rep, working on the docks for 18 years; 10 tional Executive Board. Infrastructure Vision: I believe that it is impera- My goal as a member of the IEB will shop steward, and currently I am a of them as a mechanic and eight as a improvement in our container ter- tive that as a union we must be pro- be to bring different perspectives to all chief steward, balloting committee longshoreman. minals benefits not only longshore- divisions on the trials the union faces gressive and forward thinking without member, executive board member and I’ve helped Local 10 members men, but thousands of ILWU workers due to the changing global economy; forgetting who we are and where we negotiation committee member for the deal with many challenges, including involved at every step of the freight and with the realization that throughout come from. The ILWU has a long and upcoming negotiations of 2009. complicated arbitrations, important transportation super-highway. Once its 75-year history our great union has proud history, a history that teaches us I would always continue to strive fights over jurisdiction, health and the cans hit America, seaport termi- faced challenges equal to or greater what we should do and at times more for rights and solidarity for the union safety battles, and all sorts of con- nals move cargo, be it through truck- than what we face today. importantly, what we shouldn’t do. ing, rail, or other variety of transporta- We must learn from our lessons and working force and for my brothers tract enforcement issues. I served on The ILWU, through its worldwide and sisters of Local 30. I would also the 2008 Negotiating Team where I 14 DISPATCHER • July/August 2009 Candidate statements

helped us win an excellent contract and respiratory therapists, pharmacists ence will be very helpful in what is a I am currently the chairman of Local that preserved our health benefits, and nurses) I feel that I could repre- critical time for all of the divisions of 142/Unit 2307—pineapple industry. expanded our jurisdiction, improved sent the diversity of Local 200. I have the ILWU. I have been a union member in good our pensions, and more. been serving on the Alaska Local 200 We made some changes at our standing for the past 31 years. I have The biggest challenge we’re facing E-board for 15 years and have been the convention especially concerning the previously served as a union steward, now is how to cope with the economic Secretary-Treasurer for the last three organizing department. As a board union vice chairman and represented downturn. Companies are seeking years. I have served as a delegate to member I wholly support future orga- the union membership on various

concessions and staffing cutbacks, so International conventions. nizing efforts and the completion safety committees. The welfare of our members is always my utmost priority. it requires us to respond in a well- of the Rite Aid contract campaign. organized and thoughtful manner in Marc Anthony Cuevas, Local 54 Realizing, however, that money will My energy and vision is for pineapple order to protect our contract gains. In be tight, we must be very thoughtful to stay in the United States as long as I started casual longshoring in 1976 a situation like this, we have to learn about selecting targets and allocating possible while maintaining fair treat- and was registered in 1998. Through how to cope with the everyday pres- our resources. I am confident that we ment, pay and benefits for our mem- circumstance and opportunity, it has sures without turning against each are up to that challenge and we will bers. I am not afraid to fight for you, been my honor to serve this union in other. I’m confident that we can sur- see success in organizing. your rights and your benefits as union several capacities. I represented small vive and grow if we work together, members. I have been and will con- ports on the 2008 negotiating commit- I also support the outreach to stick it out, and stay united. tinue to be a strong, conscientious, tee. I am presently on the Education international unions. The IBU has As difficult as things are for us, Dennis L. Young, Local 200 also begun an international program vocal and attentive supporter of ALL Committee and serve as an alternate to members of Local 142 and ask for your they’re much worse for the 90% of the Budget Committee. I was president Brothers & Sisters, including participating in a sister workers who have no union to help port relationship with Sydney, Aus- vote to represent you. The Union is and business agent of longshore Local As a rank and file member of the here for your protection and to keep them. We have a responsibility to help 54 where I currently serve as Audi- ILWU Alaska Longshore Division tralia, Locals 19 and 52. We are also workers organize and join the ILWU active with the ITF Seafarers Section a balance of fairness for our rank and tor, Trustee and Caucus Delegate. My since 1989 I have had the opportu- file. I want to be a part of the decision- and other unions—not just to help union activism started on the picket nity to hold various elected offices: which broadens our coalition with others, which we should—but also to many maritime unions. There can making board that takes care of you….. line at USS-POSCO in Pittsburg, CA Local level – Dispatcher, Secretary/ our members. protect our own gains that are vulner- when I was 17. My traveling partner Treasurer, Vice-President, President be no doubt that this outreach will I live on the island of Maui and am a able in a non-union environment. and I protested the WTO at the “Battle and State level – Area committeeman, strengthen our union. third-generation employee of the pine- I take my role as an elected official in in Seattle.” I worked with the ILWU President and Trustee. The IEB Alaska I plan to attend the AFL-CIO con- apple industry. Now more than ever, it our union very seriously, including my political action team that was sent to seat is an integral elected position for vention this year and hope to see a is important to be aware of what is hap- responsibility to keep people informed the battleground state of Wisconsin in our region related to our constituen- change for the good as relates to repre- pening in our economy and our coun- and to be honest about my views and 2004. cies to the International thru Conven- sentation and inclusion of all the affili- try as a whole and to make decisions positions. If elected, I will work hard tion action. Further, I hope to repre- ates. Hopefully the new leaders of the Brothers and sisters, we have been that will benefit our union members. to help us unite and fight for social jus- sent our region to ensure that Alaska AFL-CIO will unify labor and revital- warned; once again tough times are Again, my name is Harold Gouveia and tice and a stronger union. I would be has a unified voice and promote ize the movement. I have heard loud coming. Hard decisions have to be I would like your vote for the position honored to have your vote. the progressive rank and file values and clear as we all have at convention made that will change our union and of International Executive Board Mem- that make up our great union while or caucus that the status quo cannot affect what we do in the future. We ber – Hawaii – Pineapple Seat. have enough strength and leadership respecting the autonomy of the vari- stand if we are to truly have a voice in to maintain our place on the West ous locals and units. the national labor arena. Coast. In the future, the coast-wide Born and raised in Alaska, I believe Knowing that this will be a piv- contract will have to adapt or it may that I understand the various indus- otal three years for the ILWU and the fail us. We must not allow our contract tries that impact our labor force Marine Division and that we will face or us to become obsolete. Develop- statewide and have participated in many challenges due to the economy, ments in technology, economics and political action locally, statewide and the health care crisis and pension the environment bring many changes nationally for the ILWU. We need for funding, now is the time to unify Fred Pecker, Local 6 which we must learn to live with. The everyone to work together to con- within the ranks, support our leaders greatest difficulty we face though, may tinue to strengthen the ILWU pres- and work even harder to maintain the I have been privileged to serve Francis Kamakaokalani, Local our union in several capacities: as a come from within. Attitudes of entitle- ence, spreading the word that we are legacy given to us by our founders. I 142 (General Trades) thank you for your support. member of the International Execu- ment and invulnerability may blind us going to continue to grow our great No statement submitted. tive Board, as the Secretary-Treasurer or block us from being vigilant. This union throughout the State of Alaska. of the Northern California District union is worth protecting and fighting If elected as your representative I will Hawaii Council, and as an officer of Local 6 for, but our energies need to be sharply promote coordinated efforts to con- since 1991. I have also served as a del- focused and not wasted. We cannot tinue the organizing efforts that we egate, and on the Executive Board of afford the luxury of ill-considered ideas attempted in the recent past and those the San Francisco Labor Council, and or half-executed efforts. yet to come. This can only come upon been a delegate to the California Labor Organizing must remain a core goal. the unified strength of the Alaska Federation, AFL-CIO Conventions Ongoing education is the key to pass- region and the mobilization of every and Legislative Conferences since the ing on our union inheritance and pre- local and unit membership. mid-‘90s. I ask for your support in paring our newer brothers and sisters I humbly and respectfully request Aurora Raposas, Local 142 my bid for re-election to the ILWU to face an uncertain and global future. your support for IEB Alaska represen- (Sugar) International Executive Board. Thank This generation of elected representa- tative for the next three years, prom- No statement submitted. you for your past support. tives must be visionary and shrewd, ising to uphold the Constitution and Douglas Cabading, Local 142 tireless and tenacious. Challenges have Ten Guiding Principles of the ILWU; We are in the worst economic times (Pineapple) that most of us have experienced in always been there and always will be. always having an open ear for the rank our working lives. Now is the time As we move forward let us be proud of and file while representing the actions My name is Douglas Cabading for each of us to step up and contrib- our past but not restricted by it. from convention on your behalf. (known as Doug to many). I am a con- tender for the IEB seat for Pineapple. I ute. Building the ILWU means more I bring patience, perseverance and a In Solidarity, Dennis Young am interested in this seat to voice and than a monthly dues payment; our sense of realistic optimism to the table. support the pineapple and all other union is built on sweat equity. Our I will represent with passion and com- Canada industries. I have concerns of the well time, intelligence and effort will see us passion, with commitment and integ- being of our members. through the rough. It is our duty to rity. I will strive to replace disharmony set the table for those who come after with unity. I would be honored to I have experience in leadership: Samuel Kaaihue, Local 142 us the way our predecessors looked receive your vote for IEB. Please vote; Membership Service Chairman for (Longshore) out for us—leaving things better than it is the duty, honor and responsibility Unit 2306, Unit 2306 1st Vice Chair- I have been a longshoreman at the they found them—giving us a gift. It of a democratic organization. man, Unit 2306 Chairman, Maui Port of Kahului on the Island of Maui is up to us to stand up and struggle for Division Assistant Sports coordina- for nearly 29 years. Within the past few our future and that of the generations tor, sits on pineapple industry nego- years I have served as a unit delegate to come. Alaska tiations, Maui division Trustee (cur- and chairman for Unit 2201, Maul With your support I will continue rent), sits on the Local Executive Longshore Division. During that time Tom Dufresne, Local 500 to be a strong voice for our mem- board, delegate to the Local Conven- I have attended the 2006 and 2009 bership in Northern California, and No statement submitted. tion and delegate for the pineapple ILWU International Conventions. support the ILWU from San Diego industry at the International Conven- With my extensive knowledge and tions, also was part of the constitu- to Alaska to Hawaii. I will continue IBU years of hard work and dedication, it to work with all of the divisions of tion committee for both conventions would be an honor and privilege to be our union—Longshore, Maritime elected as an International Executive and Warehouse—to assist in build- Board Member, to represent all long- ing our strength and ability to sup- shore workers in the State of Hawaii, and port each other. Si se puede, yes we all my brothers and sisters of the ILWU. can. Vote Fred Pecker for IEB No. CA. Debbie “Mouse” Manowski, RN, Aloha and Mahalo! Local 200 I would like your vote and an oppor- tunity to represent Alaska on the ILWU Executive Board. I have been an ILWU

union member of unit 2201 since Alan Coté, IBU Harold Gouveia, Local 142 1988. I have been involved in all but I am honored to be the nominee for (Pineapple) the very first contract negotiations and International Executive Board repre- Aloha, fellow union members. My either an officer or steward since 1990. senting the Inlandboatmen’s Union of name is Harold Gouveia and I would Having been involved with such a the Pacific, the Marine Division of the like to be your next International diversified unit (representing radiology, ILWU. This will be my second term Executive Board Member Representing Cyrus Kodani, Local 142 clerical, laboratory, dietary, and envi- (Tourism) on the IEB and having some experi- Hawaii’s Pineapple Seat. ronmental staff, physical/occupational No statement submitted.

DISPATCHER • July/August 2009 15 Programs and Policies Adopted by the 34th Convention

SECTION 1. A Convention of the International action contributions directly to either the Political

HEALTH CARE shall be held every three (3) years beginning at 10 Action Fund or their local union, may do so in any Y a.m. on the second Monday following Easter Sun- amounts whenever they wish. SINGLE PAYER HEALTH CARE (HR676) (R-7) day. However, the International Executive Board RESOLVED: That the ILWU once again endorses may authorize a different Convention location STATEMENT OF POLICY ON TITLED OFFICERS HR676, the “United States National Health Care and starting date, which shall be no earlier than SALARIES (C-3) Act;” and March 1st nor later than June 30th of the year in The Titled Officers and International Execu- That ILWU calls on the AFL-CIO and Change which the Convention is to be held. tive Board recommend that the Titled Officers to Win to join with and support other concerned Conventions will be held on the following ro- continue to be compensated on the same basis organizations in educating and mobilizing broad tational basis in a host city of each area enumer- as is presently provided for in the International public and political support for single payer health ated, except when granted an exception by the Constitution, Article VI, Section 13. In accordance care; and International Executive Board as stated above: with that section, which permits the Titled Officers That the ILWU calls on the AFL-CIO and CtW to 1. Southern California Area, 2012 to suspend or postpone their salary increase, the persevere for passage of single payer health care 2. Hawaii Area, 2015 Titled Officers have elected to suspend their May to meet the needs of our members, our families, 3. Oregon/Columbia River Area, 2018 1, 2009 salary increase due to the economic and and all America, and not endorse or support any 4. Northern California Area, 2021 financial difficulties thrust upon our members and fallback program of mandated insurance or public 5. ILWU Canada, 2024 affiliates. Section 13 should be updated to reflect option plans which include the wasteful, for-profit 6. Washington/Puget Sound/Alaska, 2027 the May 1, 2009 salary levels as follows: insurance industry; and 7. Southern California Area, 2030 SECTION 13. The titled officers shall receive That ILWU calls on the AFL-CIO and CtW to such salaries as may be provided for by action of actively lobby the White House and Congress for STATEMENT OF POLICY ON THE POLITICAL the Convention. passage of single payer health care; and ACTION FUND (C-2) The salary of the International President shall That ILWU calls on the AFL-CIO and CtW to Several years ago the Titled Officers, based on be One Hundred Seven Thousand Eight Hun- help organize and financially support a “Health- legal advice, stopped diverting part of the Inter- dred Seventy-three Dollars and Fifty-eight Cents care is a Human Right” Solidarity March and Rally national per capita into the Political Action Fund ($107,873.58) per annum, and the salary of the in Washington, DC. (PAF). At that time we began a campaign of solic- other titled officers shall be One Hundred Four iting our members for voluntary contributions to Thousand Eight Hundred Seventy-Seven Dollars ENDORSING SINGLE-PAYER, UNIVERSAL HEALTH the PAF. Since then our members have responded and Eighty-four Cents ($104,877.84) per annum. CARE (HR676-SB840) (R-12) by digging deep into their pockets and have pro- Commencing May 1, 2010 and effective each May RESOLVED: That the ILWU 34th International Con- vided the PAF with substantially more funds than 1 thereafter, the annual wages of the titled offi- vention wholeheartedly endorses Congressman was ever collected through the diversion of the per cers shall be adjusted by a percentage equal to the Conyers’ bill HR 676, “Expanded and Improved capita. As a result our voice is heard throughout average of the increase in percentage terms in the Medicare for All,” a single payer health care the halls of Congress and our position on issues is base rate of pay in the ILWU’s three major indus- program; and taken under serious consideration. tries—Longshore, Northern California Warehouse, That the ILWU 34th International Convention We believe that Article X, Section 2 of the In- and Local 142’s major hotel agreements (Tourism) wholeheartedly endorses California State Senate ternational Constitution should be amended to - during the previous calendar year. The titled of- Bill 840 (authored by termed out Senator Sheila delete the language referring to the “diversion” ficers shall have the authority to suspend or post- Kuehl), which would provide for single-payer as that language is no longer appropriate. This is a pone any salary increase to which they are entitled health care for all in the State of California (where housekeeping amendment and will have no effect pursuant to Article VI, Section 13 based on the fi- presently 7 million people are without health in- on how the PAF is currently operating. The revised nancial situation of the International Union. Fur- surance); and section will read as follows (language to be added ther, they shall have the authority to reinstate any That the ILWU 34th International Conven- is underlined and language to be deleted has a or all suspended or postponed increases without tion will work with other unions and community line through it): retroactivity at any time between Conventions. groups to build a groundswell of popular support SECTION 2. The International shall establish This recommendation updates the titled offi- and action for single payer universal health care a Political Action Fund, which shall consist exclu- cers’ salaries to their current rates. until we make what is morally right for our nation sively of voluntary contributions. The union will into what is also politically possible. not favor or disadvantage any member because STATEMENT OF POLICY ON OFFICERS AND STAFF of the amount of his/her contribution or the deci- PENSION PLAN (C-4) UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE, PENSIONS, SICK LEAVE, sion not to contribute. In no case will a member be The ILWU Pension Plan for Officers and Staff FAMILY LEAVE (R-25) required to pay more than his/her pro rata share employees is a multi-employer plan covering the RESOLVED: In finding long-term solutions to this of the union’s collective bargaining expenses. officers and the administrative and field staff of economic crisis, we need to rationally consider the Reports on the status of the fund and the uses the International, the officers and administra- social programs adopted by other countries and to which the voluntary contributions of the mem- tive staff of the Coast Pro Rata Committee, and reject the propaganda of the right wing that seeks bers are put will be made to the International the administrative staff of the ILWU-PMA Benefit only to protect their property and wealth; and Executive Board. Plan’s Office, including the Welfare Area Directors That this Convention of the ILWU supports the The voluntary contributions to the Political Ac- and the ADRP Coordinators. These three employ- establishment of a universal health care system in tion Fund shall be collected as follows: ers each contribute to the Plan, an amount equal the United States which can be based on many suc- Up to One Dollar and Fifty Cents ($1.50) of to about $1,700,000 per year. The International cessful models such as Canada’s single payer sys- each March and July’s per capita payment to the Union’s share of this total is about $590,000 or 35%. tem, Great Britain’s government run health care International Union shall be diverted to the Po- The participants of the Plan are presently ac- system, or France and Germany’s government reg- litical Action Fund where it will be used in connec- cruing benefits at the rate of one hundred and ulation of private health insurance companies. tion with Federal, state and local elections. These fifty dollars ($150) per month per year of service, deductions are suggestions only, and individual the maximum benefit is $5,250 per month ($150 x HEALTH CARE FOR ALL (R-27) members are free to contribute more or less than 35 years); normal retirement age is 62; early retire- RESOLVED: That this Convention of the Interna- that guideline suggests. The diverted funds will be ment is available at age 55; and surviving spouses tional Longshore and Warehouse Union supports contributed only on behalf of those members who are entitled to fifty-five percent (55%) of the par- comprehensive health care reform, including voluntarily permit that portion of their per capita ticipant’s benefit as of the participant’s date of consideration of a single payer system, that will payment to be used for that purpose. The Titled death if the participant is retired or seventy-five ensure access to quality health care for everyone Officers may suspend either or both diversions if, percent of the participant’s benefit if the partici- in the U.S. without compromising the employer- in their judgment, the financial condition of the pant is active. While the Plan is administered be- based system; and International warrants suspension. tween Conventions by the International Executive That this Convention encourages each ILWU For three consecutive months prior to each di- Board, any changes in benefits are subject to Con- member to promote wellness for themselves and version each dues paying member of the union shall vention action. their families and participate in chronic disease be advised of his/her right to withhold the contri- It is the policy of the International Union to management. bution or any portion thereof otherwise made in keep the benefits available under theO fficers and March and July Those members expressing such a Staff Pension Plan in line with those benefits avail- desire, on a form provided by the International able under the longshore industry pension plan. UNION BUSINESS Union, shall be sent a check in the amount of the We, therefore, recommend the following changes STATEMENT OF POLICY ON CONVENTION contribution or less if they so desire, in advance of to the Officers and Staff Pension Plan to bring it LOCATIONS (C-1) the member making his/her dues payment to the in line with the pension improvements recently The Titled Officers and the International Executive local union for the month in which the diversion negotiated in the longshore industry pension Board recommend that Article XI, Section 1.A of occurs. plan. These improvements will increase the mini- the International Constitution be updated to re- Those members who do not wish to have any mum pension contributions by $500,000 when flect the current Convention schedule. The revised portion of their per capita payment diverted to the fully phased in (in 2013). The ILWU’s share of the section will read: Political Action Fund, but wish to make political $500,000 increase will be $175,000.

16 DISPATCHER • July/August 2009 Retiree Benefits: We recommend that the ben- cities within our jurisdiction; and ORGANIZING efit for retirees under the Officers and Staff Pen- T That the 34th ILWU International Convention sion Plan, except for those who retired from ter- calls upon the members of Congress within our STATEMENT OF POLICY ON REVISING minated-vested status, be increased, over six years, geographical jurisdiction to advocate for the fol- 30 PERCENT ORGANIZING MANDATE (C-17) from $80 per month per qualifying year to the lowing reforms in regards to immigration: In 1997 the International Convention adopted amounts listed in accordance with Table 1. Note, 1) Legalization and equal rights for a resolution, Commitment to Organizing, that this phase in schedule is identical to that provided immigrant workers; mandated thirty percent (30%) of the Internation- under the recently negotiated longshore contract. 2) Stop ICE from their brutal raids on al’s per capita income be reserved for organizing. Surviving Spouses: We recommend that the immigrant workers; The rationale for this mandate was to have ade- benefit for surviving spouses of active employees 3) No “guest worker” programs; quate monies to fund expenses for organizing. and those who retired after June 30, 2008 be in- 4) A moratorium on deportations; and After a thorough review of the organizing program creased to seventy-five percent (75%) and that for 5) Streamline the visa application process. by a sub-committee of the International Executive other employees be increased in accordance with Board, this International Executive Board recom- the schedule listed in Table 2. Again, this recommen- SUPPORT OF THE WITHDRAWAL OF AMERICAN mends that the 1997 30% mandate be changed to dation will maintain parity between retirees under TROOPS FROM IRAQ AND AFGHANISTAN AND authorize organizing expenses up to thirty percent the Officers and Staff Pension Plan and the retirees THE REINVESTMENT IN THE HUMAN NEEDS OF (30%) of the per capita income. under the longshore industry pension plan. AMERICAN PEOPLE (R-15) Accrual Rate: We recommend that the benefit RESOLVED: That the 34th ILWU Convention de- ORGANIZING THE UNORGANIZED AND accrual rate and the maximum monthly benefit mands that the United States immediately begin MOBILIZING OUR MEMBERSHIP (P-5) under the Officers and Staff Pension Plan bein- a complete withdrawal of armed forces from Iraq RESOLVED: That this Convention of the Interna- creased from $150 per month per year of service to and Afghanistan, and tional Longshore and Warehouse Union strongly $180 per month per year of service in accordance That the 34th ILWU Convention calls for an end supports passage of the Employee Free Choice Act with the schedule listed in Table 3. Again, this to private war profiteering and that contractors be and encourages ILWU members to lend their sup- change brings the benefit for active participants held responsible for their crimes while engaged in port individually and through their locals; and in line with those benefits under the longshore in- contracted activities; and That this Convention also supports the prin- dustry pension plan. That the 34th ILWU Convention expresses its ciple of organizing our rank-and-file and urges We also recommend that the plan provide two solidarity with all Iraqi unions in their efforts to or- each ILWU member to get involved in the union, early retirement windows, the first one from Au- ganize and establish free and independent unions, be educated and informed about union business gust 1, 2009 through January 31, 2010 and the sec- and and national and world affairs, and embraces the ond one from August 1, 2012 through January 31, That the 34th ILWU Convention supports Iraqi la- ILWU motto (“An Injury to One is an Injury to All”) 2013 for individuals who are at least 59-1/2 years bor efforts to protect the national sovereignty of by supporting other workers in their struggle for old and have at least 13 years of service. Individu- its oil, other natural resources and public assets; justice. als who meet these requirements and who retire and during these windows would receive an unre- That the 34th ILWU Convention calls for a re- ORGANIZING OF ALCATRAZ CRUISES (P-6) duced pension benefit, that is, there would be no versal of the current federal funding priorities that RESOLVED: That the ILWU fully supports the ef- actuarial reduction for early retirement. create austerity for labor by investing in unend- forts of the ILWU organizing department in secur- Finally we recommend that the maximum ing war while at the same time taking funds from ing representation of the Alcatraz Cruises workers years of service under the Plan be increased from education, health care, environmental safety and by the IBU/ILWU. 35 to 37 and that the bridge benefit (which is pay- other human needs; and able only to individuals with 25 or more years of That the 34th ILWU Convention calls for full THE IMPORTANCE OF ORGANIZING (P-8) service) be increased by 25% (from $400 to $500 restoration of the fundamental constitutional, RESOLVED: The ILWU International maintain orga- per month for those retiring age 62 or later) and civil and human rights that have been suspended nizing as a top priority of the ILWU, and be extended to survivors of actives or pension- in order to pursue the “war on terror” and that That the ILWU continues to put its money ers who die on or after July 1, 2008. The bridge ILWU Local 6 advocates for (1) the elimination of where its goals are, and benefit is payable only until the individual’s social the practices of rendition, torture and warrantless That should austerity measures become neces- security normal retirement age. Both of these im- surveillance, (2) the closing of the prison at Guan- sary due to the current world economic meltdown, provements are the same as the benefits under the tanamo Bay and (3) the repeal of the Military Com- funding for organizing be a core function of our longshore industry pension plan. mission Act and the Patriot Act; and International Union. All together, these changes will increase, over That the 34th ILWU Convention attempts to six years, the annual pension contribution from establish relationships with organizations of vet- SUPPORT OF THE EMPLOYEE the International by $175,000. This increase has erans and military families and build a network of FREE CHOICE ACT (R-14) been factored into the International’s budget for union members who are vets or in military fami- RESOLVED: That the ILWU does everything in its the 2009 – 2011 budget cycle. It is anticipated that lies, and power to make the Employee Free Choice Act the for the 2012-2014 budget cycle there will be no That the 34th ILWU Convention communicates law of the land, including but not limited to press- need to increase the pension contribution rate. to other locals and state and regional bodies, and ing our allies in the halls of Congress to quickly the AFL-CIO, the existence and significance of pass this legislation which is vital to the long term STATEMENT OF POLICY ON IEB Wages (C-14) these issues and encourages those bodies to un- survival of our local. Article VI, Section 13 of the International Con- dertake appropriate education and solidarity ac- stitution provides that, among other things: “Ex- tions in line with these resolutions. ecutive Board members when attending meetings of the Board shall be paid One Hundred Dollars SOLIDARITY AT HOME RACIST OPPRESSION AND THE DEATH

($100) per day wages.” This amount has been in PENALTY (R-32) ABOLISHING DETRIMENTAL BUSH effect since 1983. Therefore the Titled Officers, That the ILWU reaffirms our opposition to the ADMINISTRATION NLRB RULINGS (R-2) the Trustees and the International Executive Board death penalty, supports Martina Correia’s lawsuit RESOLVED: That the ILWU International Officers recommend that the wages paid to IEB members and demands freedom for these innocent victims work with the Locals to compile this list and for- be increased to $150 per day and that the appro- of government repression. mally send a Request to Vacate the NLRB rulings to priate section of Article VI, Section 13 be amended the U.S. Labor Department Secretary, Hilda Solis. to read: ILWU SUPPORTS WOMEN’S RIGHTS (R-42) “Executive Board members when attending RESOLVED: In the Home: that the ILWU dedicates LEGISLATION CREATING VACATION PROTECTIONS meetings of the Board shall be paid One Hundred itself to committing resources in the political battle AND U.S. MINIMIM PAID TIME OFF (R-5) and Fifty Dollars ($150) per day wages.” for legislation in Congress and at the State levels RESOLVED: The ILWU will seek out other groups to guarantee health care for children and child- and coalitions already involved in paid vacation CREATING A FRATERNAL DISTRICT COUNCIL care for working families, and supporting the cre- protections and minimum paid leave legislation DELEGATE (C-20) ation of Domestic Violence Information Centers so campaigns to work together in championing those RESOLVED: That the 2009 Convention shall estab- women can get the facts they need to combat the efforts; and lish a fraternal delegate from each District Council all too common violence and rape crisis women That the ILWU will support legislation to pass for future Conventions, and can be subject to; and comprehensive paid vacation protections and min- That the delegate costs shall be borne by the In the Workplace: that the ILWU and all its imum annual paid leave legislation for all workers; individual District Councils. locals commit themselves to guaranteeing in all and our labor contracts that women be paid the same That the ILWU will use its lobbyists in Washing- INCREASE UNION POLITICAL ACTION TO REVERSE wages as their male counterparts, that the “glass ton D.C. to promote and advance such legislation; THE DAMAGE OF THE BUSH PRESIDENCY (P-4) ceiling” for women be abolished so women can be and RESOLVED: That this Convention of the ILWU calls promoted according to their abilities and not de- That the ILWU will use its influence in the for the continued support of the International nied advancement because of their gender, that Labor Movement to build additional support for Political Action Fund by individual contributions or harassment will not be tolerated in the workplace this legislation. payroll deduction; and and when encountered will be adjudicated imme- That the ILWU continues efforts at all levels of diately; and SUPPORT OF IMMIGRANT RIGHTS AND IN the union to educate and involve the rank and file In the World: that our union supports the nom- SUPPORT OF MAY DAY MARCHES (R-13) in Union Political Action at the community, state, ination of Sonia Sotomayor for Justice of the Unit- RESOLVED: That the 34th International Conven- and national levels. ed States Supreme Court and that we also dedicate tion endorse and encourage participation in the ourselves to appointing more than two women to May Day marches and other protest activities in the Supreme Court and that the ILWU DISPATCHER • July/August 2009 17 stands against North Korea’s show trial of Ameri- SUPPORT APM TERMINALS PACIFIC WORKERS complishments of the Hawaii longshore grouping can journalists, Laura Ling and Euna Lee, and that (R-18) over the last 60 years. we hereby demand that the Afghan government RESOLVED: That the 34th Convention of the Inter- REAFFIRM THE PRINCIPLES OF RANK AND of Hamid Karzai immediately revise the Shia Fam- national Longshore and Warehouse Union strong- FILE UNIONISM (R-23) ily Law wherein girls are not allowed to attend ly supports the APM Terminals Pacific workers in RESOLVED: To this end, we urge the International school and women are not permitted to leave the their fight to keep their jobs and union jurisdic- and all ILWU locals to develop programs to edu- home or receive medical care without their hus- tion; and cate our members and train future leaders in the bands’ permission and must submit to sex upon That the ILWU International provide full sup- principles of ILWU rank and file unionism. their husbands’ demand, and that the ILWU will port to negotiations in process at APM Terminals use every political influence possible to demand Pacific in Oakland, California. UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON LABOR that rape kits in Los Angeles and other cities be ARCHIVES (R-34) analyzed and not allowed to languish on evidence SUPPORT FOR LOCAL 20 (R-20) RESOLVED: That the Washington labor community room shelves while the guilty go free. RESOLVED: That all the locals within the Southern supports a campaign to raise funds to create the California region be made aware of Local 20’s situ- Washington Labor Archives (WLA) at the Univer- ation; and sity of Washington Library; and SOLIDARITY That these locals and the International Officers That the WLA will combine the dozens of labor WORLDWIDE support Local 20 be it through letter campaigns or collections already housed in the library with new attending rallies of support; and collections that will be added in the years ahead That the ILWU International helps Local 20 and that the WLA will be managed by a profes- SISTER PORT SOLIDARITY BETWEEN THE MARI- with arbitration needs by allocating International sional labor archivist who will be employed by the TIME UNION OF AUSTRALIA, SYDNEY BRANCH lawyers to assist in arbitration if the need arises. Harry Bridges Center for Labor Studies at UW; and AND THE INLANDBOATMEN’S UNION, PUGET That the labor archivist will supervise the de- SOUND REGION AND ILWU LOCALS 19 AND SALUTE ACHIEVEMENTS OF HAWAII ILWU velopment of the Labor Archive, adding to and 52 (R-1) HOTEL WORKERS (R-22) organizing the historical materials already depos- RESOLVED: The port of Sydney, represented by the RESOLVED: That this ILWU Convention recognizes ited in the Special Collections Library, that the la- Maritime Union of Australia, Sydney Branch and the accomplishment of Local 142 hotel units and bor archivist will also work with unions, advising the port of Seattle represented by the Internation- their unit officers in improving the lives of thou- them on records management and arranging for al Longshore and Warehouse Union Local 19, Local sands of hotel members. the donation and processing of materials to the 52 and the Inland boatmen’s Union of the Pacific Labor Archive and, in addition, the labor archivist be united in solidarity as “Sister Ports.” SUPPORT PACIFIC BEACH HOTEL WORKERS (R-26) will develop educational projects and materials RESOLVED: This Convention of the ILWU thanks that will be widely accessible to union members. COMMEND SOUTH AFRICAN DOCKERS (R-30) Zenkowan, RENGO, Service Rengo, ITF, Labor Now, Schools, and the general public and will be both RESOLVED: That this Convention direct the Titled the AFL-CIO, Canadian unions, and the many other a repository and a vehicle for teaching about the Officers to send a solidarity message commend- organizations for their solidarity and support in vital history and vital presence of unions in our re- ing our brothers and sisters in the South African this struggle for justice at the Pacific Beach Hotel. gion; and dockworkers’ union (SATAWU) for their exemplary That the Washington labor community will as- action; and SUPPORT OF RITE AID NEGOTIATIONS (R-36) sist in fundraising $100,000 per year to pay salary That the ILWU demands an immediate end to RESOLVED: That the delegates to this 34th ILWU and benefits for a labor archivist and also fund the continuing Israeli siege of Gaza which is block- Convention rise to congratulate the Rite Aid work- an ongoing program of labor heritage and labor ing food, medical and construction supplies to ers for their ongoing courage and diligence in the education events that will guarantee at least five rebuild their houses from rubble. line of fire and their commitment to achieving a years of funding until the WLA is able to have a just collective bargaining agreement; and permanent endowment in place and is able to at- FREE THE CUBAN 5 (R-33) That we inform Rite Aid Corp. that their em- tract grants from foundations and governmental RESOLVED: That the Convention delegates instruct ployees are not alone and that we work and live in sources; and the International President to write a letter to most communities where Rite Aid stores are open That the International Longshore and Ware- President Obama, urging President Obama to look for business; and house Union request from all ILWU Locals to make into the case of the Cuban 5, and immediately al- That our support for Rite Aid’s ILWU workforce financial contributions to assist in this worthwhile low their wives and families to visit them and move take whatever form may be necessary in order to effort. to free them so they can return to their families. achieve the goal of a fair and just union contract. CHANGE US-CUBA POLICY AND RESTORE DIPLOMATIC RELATIONS (R-38) FAREWELLS RESOLVED: That in that spirit, we call for an end to B the senseless travel ban that is counterproductive TENDING OUR IN MEMORY OF AH QUON McELRATH (R-24) and unnecessary; and TRADITIONS RESOLVED: That this Convention of the Interna- That now is the time to demonstrate to the tional Longshore and Warehouse Union honors Cuban people that the American worker is inter- the life of Ah Quon McElrath, labor icon and social LABOR EDUCATION (P-3) ested in building a new and lasting relationship advocate; and RESOLVED: That the ILWU work jointly through based on diplomacy, dignity, respect and mutual That the Convention reaffirms the ILWU’s com- education and political action committees to intro- dialogue, in solidarity together to make this hemi- mitment as a progressive union that organizes the duce and encourage federal legislation requiring sphere a more peaceful place. unorganized, fights for social justice, and promotes labor education in history and social studies for all solidarity; and public schools at all grade levels; and That the Convention urges locals and members That the ILWU shall assist in the development to contribute to the Ah Quon McElrath Fund for SUPPORTING OUR of these educational programs, including the de- i Economic and Social Justice. velopment of educational materials and resources i BROTHERS & SISTERS in order to assure quality labor education. JACK WYATT, SR. (R-37) RESOLVED: That this 34th Convention of the ILWU OPPOSITION TO NATIONAL IDENTIFICATION 75TH ANNIVERSARY GENERAL STRIKE recognize Jack Wyatt Sr. for more than four de- CARDS AND OTHER ASSAULTS ON WORKER COMMEMORATION EVENTS (R-16) cades of membership in the ILWU, the majority of PRIVACY (R-4) RESOLVED: The 2009 ILWU Convention endorses which were in service to this great union; and RESOLVED: That the ILWU actively and staunchly and supports these two conferences and proces- That the ILWU congratulate Jack on his much- oppose any future implementation of a National sion and the Southern California 75th Anniversary deserved retirement and thank his family for let- I.D. Card or Worker I.D. (such as TWIC) and any programs and urges representation from all ILWU ting us have him all these years. similar program. locals to participate in and for the International to publicize and support Local 10’s, Local 34’s and RICHARD CAVALLI (R-40) SUPPORT FOR LOCAL 30 (R-6) Laborfest’s 75th Anniversary General Strike Com- RESOLVED: That ILWU Local 34 and the 2009 ILWU RESOLVED: That we, the rank and file of Local 30, memoration Events. petition the ILWU for the following: The Interna- Convention thank Richard Cavalli for all his years of service to and sacrifice for the International tional provide support in all forms necessary be it 113 STEUART STREET (R-17) Longshore and Warehouse Union. international representation, economic, and legal RESOLVED: That the ILWU Convention calls for 113 as well as research assistance in our upcoming 2009 Steuart Street to become a landmarked labor his- JOHN TOUSSEAU (R-44) contract negotiations. tory museum, labor education and training center RESOLVED: That ILWU Local 63 and the 2009 ILWU and calls for good union jobs for working people Convention thank John Tousseau for all his years NEW CHARTER CONTRACT NEGOTIATIONS (R-8) on projects that restore our cities and serve the of service and sacrifice for the International Long- RESOLVED: That all new charters shall have at needs of our people and not the greed of duplici- shore and Warehouse Union. least one ILWU titled officer or a representative tous developers. appointed by the International President assist- ing throughout contract negotiations for the first CELEBRATE 60th ANNIVERSARY OF 1949 LONG- The full text of all constitutional amendments contract. SHORE STRIKE (R-21) and resolutions is online at www.ilwu.org/about/ RESOLVED: This Convention of the ILWU celebrates Convention/2009/Resolutions/ the 60th anniversary of the 1949 strike and the ac-

18 DISPATCHER • July/August 2009 IN MEMORIAM Marvin Stanley Ricks Oct. 22, 1911 - June 10, 2009

Local 8 veteran Marvin Ricks, one of the last survivors of the great maritime Michael Munk Photo credit: strike of 1934, died June 10 in Beaverton, Oregon at the age of 97. Ricks was a 22-year-old Portland dock worker in May of 1934, when thousands of long- shoremen went on strike, shutting down every U.S. port on the Pacific Coast for three months. Ricks was a young member of a union “riot squad” during the 1934 strike, fighting scabs and defending picket lines along the Portland waterfront. He was also one of 28 Portland longshore activists falsely charged with killing a scab three weeks after the strike ended. Their case became a cause celebre. Once freed, Ricks returned to the waterfront. He became a walking boss around 1939, a gear man a decade later and a pensioner in 1976. ILWU histo- rian Harvey Schwartz interviewed Ricks in 2001. Below is an excerpt from that interview, which appeared in The Dispatcher in September 2003. everal ships were still work- When the strike started, nearly all ing the morning the ’34 the regular police were our friends. strike started. One of my They were working men. Then, pretty S soon, you found all the good guys first jobs was to go around with uptown, directing traffic, and you had a bunch of men to every ship every bad one on the waterfront, plus a in the harbor that was working bunch of special police they stationed at and tell the gangs that everybody Terminal 4. The July 11 tragedy, when was out and they’d better get off the police opened up shooting near Terminal 4, was completely unneces- The Memory Keeper: Marvin Ricks was a regular speaker at ILWU Local 8’s the ship right now. We talked sary. They claimed they only used riot most of them into leaving. Some annual Bloody Thursday tribute at Portland’s Oaks Park, often reminding younger guns, but Elmus “Buster” Beatty had a union members of the sacrifices their brothers and sisters made to win their union. gangs didn’t quit, but we did .45 slug in his neck and was off for a L-R, Marvin Ricks; former State Senator Frank Shields; Local 92 member Doug Carey. nothing at the time because we year. Four pickets were shot that day, were just four men per group two critically. When I got arrested I said, “What making the rounds. As the We did have someone in the police ings at City Hall, they hauled us down for?” They says, “Murder.” I thought, and back in the Black Maria. They’d strike got going, the things we department who sent us a list every week of all the special police that were “Ah, what a relief.” This might have take us out ten at a time on a chain. We did were considerably different. hired, including addresses. So there been for assault and batter, kidnapping only shaved on shave day, so the public When we got organized, then those were specials who happened to run or sabotage, but when they said mur- got to see these ten unshaven, rough- guys who were working the ships had into unfriendly people in the streets. der, I knew I didn’t do it. I wasn’t there. looking characters on the chain. been warned. That’s why the employ- Then we had this detective who used I’d gone to the dentist that day. He was In a while some kid that had ers kept the strikebreakers on board to tell us this and that. Once he says, late and I was waiting alone at his office scabbed broke down and told the police ship, or on the grain docks, or out at “They’re moving a bunch of scabs in when the shooting took place. But I he’d seen another scab, Carl Grammer, Terminal 4. That way, those men didn’t the morning. We have orders to take couldn’t prove it. He had no secretary. shoot Conner. The cops found the gun, have to come back-and-forth, because them to point X. At point Y, the Har- In the ’30s, you did well to support too. It matched and they had proof they had a little problem getting back- bor Patrol is to pick them up and guard yourself let alone a secretary. Anyway, that Grammer did it. So we finally got and-forth. them the rest of the way. Somebody they picked up everybody that any of turned loose. the scabs saw or thought they saw. One night the phone rang. It was forgot there was one block in between When the strike was over I was the fellow that ran the beer joint up on those two points.” I was taken to jail. You weren’t happy to have a little money to spend, 23rd and Burnside. He says, “Hey, I’ve “I will see to it that we protect allowed to call out for 24 hours. I dis- which before I didn’t have. I owed the got two guys in here that sound like them only to the point that we were appear, wiped off the face of the earth. kid at the service station $2 and I could scabs.” We said, “Okay, we’ll be there.” told,” the detective said, “and that When they questioned me, there was pay that off. Today, The Oregonian says We walked in. Here are two fellas sit- none of the Harbor Patrol go beyond the assistant district attorney, “Big Bill” we are upper middle-class on account ting down, drinking. We knew them that point.” So there was quite a bit of Browne, the head of the police Red of our good wages. Years ago we were both. monkey business out in the street that Squad, two policemen and two detec- looked down upon and called Com- We said, “Well, hi fellas. We know morning in that one block. There were tives. You’re this scared 22-year-old kid munistic bums. I used to be against the you’re too drunk to drive home. We’ll police on both ends, but none made a with six people throwing questions at idea of Wobblies, and against Commu- see you get home safe.” Meanwhile, move because they hadn’t any orders. ya and you haven’t even been allowed nism, but now I think they did more you have a wrist-lock on each one, so That is what you call having friends. to call out. Well, one thing, being as I for the union and getting organized hadn’t been there, I could tell the truth. if they make a sound you could break I was on the soup bumming detail than anyone. I didn’t get confused in my story. their arm. We led ’em out. You go as for a while. One of my duties was to go You have to have a radical. The good pals, you’re helping the two up to the Good Eats Cafe on Burnside They took us down to the City Jail rest of you may hate your conditions, drunks. We got ’em outside, talked to’ at 10 o’clock at night when they closed. and threw us into the bull pen where but you go along, whereas you need m by hand a little while, and turned They gave us whatever coffee and soup the drunks had been heaving their guts some no-good so-and-so to stir it up ’em loose. they had left over. We had bumming out. It was horrible. They were pick- and get you going. I think nearly all of You might say I was in a flying committees for rooms, food, produce ing up two, three, four longshoremen a our early top leadership was a little bit squad—we called it a “riot squad.” and everything because you couldn’t day. We got watery mush for breakfast on the Wobbly side, whether you could These were squads made up of foot- get much help from other unions. In with two slices of moldy bread and a prove it or not. Now I don’t know ball players, boxers or wrestlers, the ’34 what unions you had were very little thin soup at lunch and dinner. The about Harry Bridges, but it takes some- single men that didn’t have much to weak. We were what got unions going. only thing you could buy was Milky one like him to get out and do the job. Way candy bars. It took me 20 years lose. There were four squads of us on After the strike, the work paid 95 I also feel we have to organize to before I could eat another one. After the shift I was on. If there was trouble cents an hour. I made $210 the first stay alive. You just can’t stand alone. a week they moved us to the County at a dock, they called for us and here 21 days. That’s $10 a day. I was work- You need people to back you when Jail, where the food was good and they come 40 men down there in a hurry. ing pretty steady. I remember 21 days you have trouble. Taking in the sales let the union or your wives or friends Throughout the strike, we kept 10 because on the 22nd day I got arrested. people at Powell’s Books, which we did bring food in to you. pickets at every gate, at every dock on What happened was that a bunch of recently in the new Local 5, hits my the waterfront. We kept them 12 hours our men who were provoked by an There were 28 of us charged. A sense of humor as a good thing. It was a day, seven days a week. Well then, we employer agent raided this company quirk in the law let them charge us all. getting two completely opposite types had these 40 men that could go any- union scab hall. A shot was fired and a Once there were 32, but we proved of workers together. where at any time to reinforce. And we scab named James Conner was killed. that four of us weren’t there. When we did make a difference. started having our preliminary hear-

DISPATCHER • July/August 2009 19 TRANSITIONS A Helping Hand... NEW PENSIONERS: Paul L. Biller; Local 19: Edgar W. Local 10: Lon D. Harvey; Local 13: Rodenburg, Oliver Hunter; Local 21: Frank A. Lopez, Anthony G. Young, Elmer D. Hendrickson; Local 23: ...when you need it most. That’s what we’re Joseph R. Meave, John H. Herron, Roger W. Eriksen (Geraldine), Keith L. James E. Greer, Daniel Masing, Charles Stevens, James E. Lewis; Local 32: all about. We are the representatives of E. Walker; Local 19: Daniel O. Neville; Frank E. Johnson; Local 34: James P. Local 34: Carl Zenn; Local 40: Richard Clomon, Ron D. Remington; Local the ILWU-sponsored recovery programs. E. Tapper; Local 52: Dave W. 63: Randy M. Meikle; Local 98: Davidson, Gerald Rooker; Local 63: Lenzie J. Shellman We provide professional and confidential Stanley D. Winter, James G. Horan, DECEASED SURVIVORS: assistance to you and your family for alco- Norm Walden, John R. Tousseau, Local 8: Gladys M. Sanders, Shirley Ronald L. Richardson, Dag L. R. Wonner; Local 10: Emma L. holism, drug abuse and other problems—and Kolderup, William B. Shuck; Local 91: Randolph, Dorothy C. Anderson, Charles S. Villeggiante Jr., Larry R. Mary C. Calegari, Elaine Carson; we’re just a phone call away. Wright; Local 92: Raymond A. Ramey; Local 13: Lola M. Turner, Florine Local 94: Richard A. Madalena, Allen, Marion G. Miller, Virginia Ortiz, Johnny L. Berg Shirley Suggs, Genevieve M. White, ILWU LONGSHORE DIVISION DECEASED & New Survivors: Helen M. Grassi, Ozell McMahan, Local 4: Wesley Pfeifer, Theodore Barbara Walker, Lillian Johnson, Veitenheimer (Florence); Local 6: Sarah M. Dennis; Local 18: Barbara ADRP—Southern California ADRP—Oregon Wilhelmina Heide; Local 7: Earl M. A. Rendon; Local 23: Lenora Jean Jackie Cummings Brian Harvey Thomas Sr.; Local 8: Marvin S. Ricks; Dobiash; Local 29: Ercilia Munoz, 870 West Ninth St. #201 5201 SW Westgate Dr. #207 Local 10: John H. Mackeral, Leroy Patricia A. Rodriguez; Local 52: San Pedro, CA 90731 Portland, OR 97221 Griffin; Local 13: Vernon L. Bennett, Florence Hughes (310) 547-9966 (503) 231-4882

ADRP—Northern California ADRP—Washington Norm McLeod Donnie Schwendeman 2008 Bound Dispatchers Available 400 North Point 3600 Port of Tacoma Rd. #503 Handsome, leather-bound, gold-embossed 2008 editions of The Dispatcher San Francisco, CA 94133 Tacoma, WA 98424 are now available. A year’s worth of ILWU history makes a great gift or (415) 776-8363 (253) 922-8913 family memento. Supplies are limited, so order soon. A small number of back-issues are also available at $25 each. Cost is $70 each, including ILWU WAREHOUSE DIVISION ILWU CANADA shipping. Email orders to [email protected], or make your DARE—Northern California EAP—British Columbia check out to ILWU and mail to: Teamsters Assistance Program John Felicella Editor, ILWU Communications, 300 Pendleton Way 3665 Kingsway, Ste 300 1188 Franklin Street, Oakland, CA 94621 Vancouver, BC V5R 5WR San Francisco, CA 94109. (510) 562-3600 (604) 254-7911

ILWU BOOKs & VIDEOs ILWU BOOK & VIDEO order form Books and videos about the ILWU are available from the union’s library at discounted prices! ORDER BY MAIL BOOKS ___ copies of Solidarity Stories @ $17 ea. = $_____ Solidarity Stories: An Oral History of the ILWU. By Harvey Schwartz. An inspiring collection of first-hand accounts from ILWU union leaders and rank-and-file workers. $17.00. ___ copies of A Spark Is Struck @ $13.50 ea.= $_____ A Spark Is Struck: Jack Hall & the ILWU in Hawaii. By Sanford Zalburg: A high quality re-issue of the informative epic account of Jack Hall and the birth and growth of the ILWU in Hawaii ___ copies of Along the Shore @ two for $5.= $_____ $13.50 (paperback). ___ copies of The Legacy of 1934 @ two for $5 = $_____ Along the Shore/Por la Costa—ILWU Coloring Book. A bi-lingual English/Spanish coloring book about waterfront workers and their union. Originally developed by the California ___ copies of Harry Bridges @ $10 ea.= $_____ Federation of Teachers’ Labor in the Schools Committee in consultation with member Patricia Aguirre and the ILWU Local 13 Education Committee. Meets K-3 classroom ___ copies of ILWU Story @ $5 ea. = $_____ standards for History and Social Studies. Two (2) for $5.00 The Legacy of 1934: An historical exhibit by the ILWU. Produced as a catalogue to accompany ___ copies of The Big Strike @ $9.00 ea. = $_____ the new traveling historical art exhibit about the origins of the ILWU in the 1934 maritime ___ copies of The Union Makes Us Strong @ $20 ea. = $_____ strike, this brief but vivid publication stands on its own as a pictorial history of the coastwise strike and an account of the extraordinary sacrifices and democratic principles of the ___ copies of The March Inland @ $9 ea.= $_____ founding members of the union. Two (2) for $5.00 Harry Bridges: The Rise and Fall of Radical Labor in the United States. By Charles Larrowe. ___ copies of A Terrible Anger @ $16.50 ea.= $_____ A limited number of copies of this out-of-print and useful biography are now available through the book sale by special arrangement with Bolerium Books in San Francisco, which ___ copies of Eye of the Storm DVD @ $5 ea. = $_____ specializes in rare publications and documents about radical and labor history. $10.00 ___ copies of We Are the ILWU DVD @ $5 ea. = $_____ The ILWU Story. This book unrolls the history of the union from its origins to the present, complete with recollections from the men and women who built the union, in their own ___ copies of We Are the ILWU VHS @ $5 ea. = $_____ words, and dozens of rare photos of the union in action. $5.00 The Big Strike. By Mike Quin. The classic partisan account of the 1934 strike. $9.00 ___ copies of A Life on the Beam DVD @ $5 ea. = $_____ The Union Makes Us Strong: Radical Unionism on the San Francisco Waterfront. By David Total Enclosed $_____ Wellman. The important new study of longshoring in the ILWU. $20.00 (paperback)

A Terrible Anger: The 1934 Waterfront and General Strike in San Francisco. By David Selvin. Perhaps the most comprehensive single narrative about the San Francisco events of 1934. No sales outside the U.S. $16.50 We regret that U.S. Customs and postal regulations create too great a burden The March Inland: Origins of the ILWU Warehouse Division 1934-1938. By Harvey Schwartz. for our staff to maintain book sale service to our members and friends outside A new edition of the only comprehensive account of the union’s organizing campaign in the United States. the northern California warehouse and distribution industry. $9.00

VIDEOS Name______“Eye of the Storm: Our Fight for Justice and a Better Contract.” A 58-minute DVD feature documentary film produced and directed by Amie Williams, Eye of the Storm tells the story Street Address or PO Box ______of the 2002 longshore lockout on the West Coast. DVD Version $5.00 City ______State______Zip______“We Are the ILWU.” A 30-minute color video introducing the principles and traditions of the ILWU. Features active and retired members talking about what the union meant in Make check or money order (U.S. Funds) payable to “ILWU” and send to their lives and what it needs to survive and thrive, along with film clips, historical photos and an original musical score. DVD or VHS version $5.00 ILWU Library, 1188 Franklin Street, San Francisco,CA 94109 “Life on the Beam: A Memorial to Harry Bridges.” A 17-minute DVD of the original video Prices include shipping and handling. production by California Working Group, Inc., memorializes Harry Bridges through still Please allow at least four weeks for delivery. photographs, recorded interviews, and reminiscences. Originally produced for the 1990 Shipment to U.S. addresses only memorial service in San Francisco. DVD $5.00

20 DISPATCHER • July/August 2009