HONOLULU — The ILWU is a union that values its members. The union is only as strong as its members, and thankfully Local 142 has members who have longevity within the organization.

Unit 4409 Island Movers has two members who have over 80 years combined of union membership between them. Island Movers is one of the only moving companies in Hawaii that is unionized.

Larry Hamada
Larry Hamada has been a member for 46 years. “I earned my stripes,” said Hamada. “I try to get young people to understand the value of a pension. Old guys like us, we see the big picture. It’s not just about immediate benefits, you need to think about your future, too.”

Even though Hamada calls himself an “old guy” his senses are still sharp. “I know what another driver will do before he does it,” he said. “You know what to look for when you’ve done this long enough. It’s good to have this naturally...and avoid lots of accidents!”

Mahalo Mr. Hamada, for being so committed to the job and sticking with the union for 46 years.

Make way, make way! These huge machines are not easy to drive... but these hammahs here are pros. Eddie Sekigawa is on the left and Larry Hamada is on the right.

Eddie Sekigawa
 Another worker who has “earned his stripes” is Eddie Sekigawa, a member since 1979. He has been actively involved with union activities since 1985.

“I stepped in when the old unit treasurer retired. I always remember that the bottom line is the membership. Especially the ones who don’t speak up. Always remember those ones, because they are the ones who will most likely be overlooked and forgotten. So we can’t forget them.”

The normal work day in this company requires a lot of teamwork, a value that overlaps well with unionism. “We do a lot of training on how to pack and wrap furniture and teaching other guys how to mark and label things so nothing is lost on the other side of a move,” explained Sekigawa.

Viewing workers as part of the same team helps the union be a cohesive unit. “You see we’re all in the same boat no matter what industry it is. It’s always an owner calling the shots and to increase profits, they look first at cutting workers. This is why I’m involved in the union.” 

One could not ask for a clearer embodiment of the ILWU saying “An injury to one is an injury to all.”

The principles that make the ILWU strong live in people like Eddie and Larry. Please consider booking Island Movers and supporting union companies for all your packing and moving needs. The work experience of members like these cannot be denied, and their aloha will always make a difference you will remember.

Maui Division Recognition Night

1. Clifford Paet, Business Agent Jerrybeth Demello, Eddie Ignacio from Unit 2506 Kaanapali Beach Hotel 2. Business Agent Steven Lee, Mila Velasco, Lourdes Rivera, Liwayway Jimenez from Unit 2505 The Westin Maui 3. Conchita DeCambra from Unit 2101 HC&S Company 4. Jesse Battaglia from Unit 2509 Four Seasons Resort Lanai and Business Agent Joseph Aquino 5. Orlando DeLeon from Unit 2508 Maui Eldorado AOAO

KAHULUI — On February 20, 2019, Maui Division held its annual Recognition Night to honor the members and units who help make the union strong. Mahalo to the hardworking members who understand that THEY are the union, and empower themselves and others in the workplace daily.