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Pivotal Strike

The Minneapolis strike of 1934 is widely seen as a pivotal moment for the Teamsters and for the labor movement. The union also grew in stature, proving to be a powerful force in the labor movement. The outcome of the strike also led to the enactment of legislation acknowledging the rights of workers to organize and bargain, including the National Labor Relations Act and the Fair Labor Standards Act.“

The Minneapolis Strike was truly a turning point for labor, bringing recognition to the union and dignity to workers. But history has a way of repeating itself,” said Joe Dwyer, Assistant Trustee of Local 120. “If we take the 1934 strikers’ victories for granted and forget their struggles, we will likely have to fight their battles all over again. The struggles workers face today are not so different from those dark days 80 years ago.”

“This event made me look differently at how we got our union rights even after more than 40 years as a Teamster,” said Bill Moore, Trustee for Minnesota’s Local 120. “If viewing the pictures from the strike and the event commemorating it does not change your heart and your commitment to your union, you need to pinch yourself to make sure you are awake."

Original Article:

https://teamster.org/magazine/2014/summer/remember-1934

Testimonial

"I was a Shop Steward and was also on the contract negotiation team. The Union took the time and trouble to learn all about our industry and what we do. This means they are better able to fight for us whether it is on the job or at the bargaining table. We have the best contract in our industry. Thanks guys!"

- Gerald Price - Agrifoods

For 35 years I have been a Teamster and a Dairyworker, I was a young kid needing a job in tough economic times. I found a place to work and make a living, I learned to work together with others having varying and different backgrounds than my own.

Much has changed for me personally and professionally, I got married to my beautiful wife of almost 25 years and we have raised two amazing children, both of whom are presently studying abroad. Both of my children were recipients of Hoffa Memorial Scholarship Funding.

So much of my success I can credit to having a well paying union job. The Teamsters have been a great union for me, negotiating strong collective agreements that held good wage and benefit packages as well as the cornerstone beliefs of seniority and workers’ rights. The Teamsters gave me a good wage and a voice.

I have always been an active Teamster, and now I sit on Local 464's Executive Board.

There can be a great degree of personal feelings when the word union is mentioned, but so often I look at professional associations and realize the name may be different, but the thought is the same...strength in numbers.

As I get toward the end of my career, I look forward to the thought of receiving the Teamsters Canada Pension Plan, and I am so grateful for the belief others had before me that Teamsters deserved a good and decent retirement...thank you.

Drew


- Drew Speirs

“They have demonstrated the dedication and leadership that
our Local requires. They have always provided sound counsel, support, and frank
discussion on matters involving the members, contract negotiations and our
Local.“ 

- Bruce Tillapaugh –Shop Steward. Island Farms, Victoria