There are three stories in this issue of the VOICE where awards and honors are given to individual union members and the union organization at their work places (we call them units in the ILWU). On page seven there are stories where Kauai and Maui Divisions recognized their outstanding unit leaders and units. On page eight is a story on how Hawaii Division has been honoring their units and unit leaders at a Recognition Banquet which is now in its 36th year. Oahu Division also honors their unit leaders, but this function was put on hold this year.
The recognition of unit leaders is a long standing tradition and part of the culture of the ILWU. Unit leaders deserve our thanks and praise. They serve as volunteers and often spend a great deal of time helping their fellow union members and building the union at their workplace. Too often their contributions go unnoticed or are taken for granted. You can help turn this around by showing your appreciation, saying “thank you,” or even better getting involved and active with your unit.
Units are a vital part of the ILWU structure and enable the union to operate as a democratic organization run by the membership. All ILWU members at your company or workplace are organized into a unit of the ILWU. Units are involved in contract negotiations, shape policy for the union, and elect the island and statewide officers of the union. Well organized units make the union stronger and more effective.
Members of a unit share common interests as workers. They negotiate together and are covered by the same collective bargaining agreement (or union contract). Each unit elects officers such as a chairperson, a vice-chair, a treasurer, and a secretary. Larger units may have a network of union stewards who promote unionism in their departments, educate members about their rights, and help members with problems on the job.
Unions are strongest and most effective when union members are active and involved on the job. Unions are all about the solidarity and organization of workers. Solidarity is where workers are united around common interests and support each other to achieve these interests. Organization means there is some kind of structure or network where people can work together to get things done.
The ILWU was founded as a democratic union run by the membership. Members ran the union through their unit, which was usually the job site. This is written into the Constitution and Bylaws of ILWU Local 142 where there is a lot of detail on how units function as part of the ILWU structure, the duties of unit officers, and how elections are run in the units.
—See stories on pages 7 & 8 recognizing the work of unit leaders
tNew Kauai Division Election, see page 2
Kauai Commercial closes
LIHUE—Alexander & Baldwin (A&B), the parent company of Kauai Commercial, closed its trucking operations at the end of March and will focus on its A&B Fleet Services company which provides repairs and other services.
Some of the mechanics were retained as part of A&B Fleet Services and Hawk Tree International, the company that is taking over the trucking operation, hired some of the drivers. However, some Kauai Commercial workers will need to look for new jobs.
Kauai Commercial (also known as Kauai Terminals) has been operating for over 100 years, first hauling sugar and supplies for A&B plantations, then branching out into other trucking operations. Most of 35 truckers, maintenance workers, and clerical staff of Kauai Commercial have been long-time members of the ILWU. Kauai Commercial production workers have been part of the ILWU since 1951 and the clerical unit was organized in 1971.
“It’s very sad to see a such a long-time company close down, but our main goal is to ensure the workers are employed— and we’ll do whatever we need to do to make that happen,” said Kauai Division Director Michael Machado. The union is keeping the workers informed and meeting with A&B.
The ILWU has negotiated with Kauai Commercial on the details of the closure and possible transfer of workers to other A&B companies.
Hawk Tree has taken over some of Kauai Commercial’s business. The Honolulu based Hawk Tree owns Island Movers and other companies which provide moving, transportation, courier, and other logistical services. The ILWU represents about 100 Island Movers members on Oahu and Maui.
