The fight against our rights and benefits has begun and we must act now to combat it. The attack on collective bargaining rights for our public sector union members in Wisconsin, Ohio, Indiana and Florida is only the beginning. Many other states and the Federal Government are in the process of going even further. The Republicans in the House and Senate have now introduced legislation trying to repeal the rights of railroad workers guaranteed under the Railway Labor Act.
IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger is leading the way across our country. In his letter sent to all IAM members, including TCU, he stated the need to join in solidarity against these attacks, “The entire labor movement has awakened to the call of solidarity. Generations of union members who came before us fought these same battles many decades ago. They demanded fair wages, health care, and an eight-hour work-day in a safe environment. They won pension plans and seniority systems. They negotiated agreements and stood firm against employers who refused to negotiate in good faith.”
President Buffenbarger introduced the “$5.00 for the Fight” campaign, in order to raise money for the IAM Education Fund. These funds will be used for on-the-ground face-to-face activities to protect the rights of working Americans.
“President Buffenbarger is assuring that IAM members live up to the well earned moniker of “Fighting Machinists!” said TCU President Bob Scardelletti.
In a letter to all Local Lodge Officers, President Scardelletti asked for all TCU members to join in this fight, “The $5.00 for the Fight campaign will give every person who donates a piece of the fight. Now is the time to have our voices heard. We don’t want union treasury money. Donations are a personal commitment to our way of life.”
“The Union is the Last Line of Defense for the American Worker. Brothers and sisters, there is no one else who will stand up to protect the wages, benefits and pensions that we have all worked so hard to obtain.”
For more information contact your Local Chairman or any Local Lodge officer and find out how to help.
Click here to read the letter from TCU President Bob Scardelletti.
Click here to read the letter from IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger.
