What makes the ILWU different from other unions, is not only protecting the living standards of our own members, but our committment to social justice, internationally as well as within our own national boundaries. Whether it is refusing to unload scab cargo from the “Neptune Jade” or protesting against the World Trade Organization in Seattle, the ILWU sets an example on what other unions should be doing. The most effective way to continue this proud tradition is by reelecting Brian McWilliams as International President.
We’re fortunate in having an organizing team at the International level that is second to none. This is a team that involves the rank and file. An example is the organizing workshops, sponsored the the ILWU organizing department, one that I was fortunate to attend in San Francisco. For having put this team together, and supporting their efforts in the field, McWilliams deserves credit for this, and also deserves to be reelected.
I’ve been in 7 or 8 different unions during the past 25 years, and I can say, without reservations, the “Dispatcher” is the best union newspaper now or ever. This is a result of staff members appointed by McWilliams.
Several of our organizing campaigns, in particular the Couriers in San Francisco, and the workers at Powell’s Bookstore in Portland, came to us, as oppossed to us going to them. They came to the ILWU because of our reputation for militancy, democracy, and committment to social justice. The employer attacks on the working class the last 20 years have been particularly brutal. Real wages have been rolled back, union strength has been reduced from 20% to less than 14% of the workforce. Child poverty is at 20%. Over 42 million Americans are without adequate healthcare. In order to turn this situation around requires a united front fightback. Though the unions are the strongest organizations, we can’t do this by ourselves. We have to ally with others, a position, that Brian McWilliams agrees with.
If we want to continue the ILWU’s proud tradition of militancy, social unionism, and aggressive organizing, then there is but one choice. Reelect Brian Williams as International President.
Ken Morgan, Local 6, San Francisco
