AFL-CIO: Longshoremen's Contract Fight Is Labor's Fight; USMX Can End Strike
Editorial StaffThe Facts -
- 45,000 ILA members began a work stoppage at East and Gulf Coast ports.
- The AFL-CIO supports the strike, emphasizing fair wages and job protections.
- USMX can end the strike with a fair contract offer to the workers.
AFL-CIO President Backs Longshoremen's Strike for Fair Contracts
AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler issued a statement as 45,000 International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) members began a work stoppage along the East and Gulf Coasts due to unfair wages:
(Washington, D.C.)—The ILA’s fight for fair contracts represents the entire labor movement. As 45,000 longshoremen strike for fair wages, the AFL-CIO and our 13 million members from 60 unions stand in solid support.
During the pandemic, longshore workers risked their lives to keep the supply chain intact. Meanwhile, shipping companies earned $400 billion in profits from 2020 to 2023. These companies can afford to provide fair wages to ILA members who have seen minimal or zero wage hikes. Longshoremen, like all workers, need raises to cope with rising living costs and protections against job losses due to automation.
USMX has the power to end this strike. To maintain economic stability, carriers must offer a fair contract. The U.S. Maritime Alliance (USMX) can resolve this anytime by providing a fair contract to these essential workers.
Contact: Mia Jacobs, 202-637-5018
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