AFL-CIO Chief Warns GOP: Don’t Meddle in Longshoremen’s Contract

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AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler Urges Support for Longshoremen Contract Negotiations

AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler: “The fight for a fair contract for longshoremen is the entire labor movement’s fight.”

Text of Letter (PDF)

(Washington, D.C.)—In a new letter, AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler urged House Republicans to support workers by not interfering in contract negotiations between the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and the U.S. Maritime Alliance (USMX). The House majority requested the White House to ensure the flow of goods if the ILA members’ contract expires without a deal on Oct. 1.

In the letter, representing 60 unions and nearly 13 million members, Shuler emphasizes the fairness workers seek: “ILA members need raises to keep up with the cost of living and protections from job loss due to automation.”

The lawmakers had previously mentioned economic disruption from a strike at East and Gulf Coast ports. The AFL-CIO letter counters, “When companies expect an injunction, they don’t negotiate sincerely. Your letter makes a deal less likely and a strike more probable.”

Denying ILA members’ right to fight for a fair contract ignores their sacrifices. Shuler writes: “Throughout the pandemic, longshore workers risked their health to keep shelves stocked and the supply chain strong. It’s insulting to provoke a strike instead of agreeing to a fair contract.”

“Averting a strike is the employers' responsibility. They must offer a contract reflecting the dignity and value of workers. The fight for a fair contract for longshoremen is the labor movement’s fight. We stand united with the 45,000 ILA members who keep our nation’s economy moving,” Shuler emphasizes, urging lawmakers to call on USMX to settle negotiations with a fair offer.

Contact: Mia Jacobs, 202-637-5018

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