[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 55 (Wednesday, April 1, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E848]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         HONORING ILWU LOCAL 29

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. BOB FILNER

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, April 1, 2009

  Mr. FILNER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a time-honored and 
long-revered labor union that has created many well-paying jobs on our 
Pacific west coast--the International Longshoremen Worker's Union (the 
ILWU)!
  The ILWU Local 29 was granted its charter with jurisdiction embracing 
all workers in or about the City and County of San Diego. California on 
September 21, 1937. Local 29 embraces workers of all races and beliefs, 
who come together with one single purpose: to achieve a better life for 
themselves and their families. It is a union that is democratic, 
committed and dedicated to the idea that solidarity with other workers 
and other unions is the key to achieving economic security and a 
peaceful world.
  Through the years the Local 29 membership has grown and work 
opportunities have improved. ILWU Local 29 dispatch longshoremen to a 
variety of jobs every day. Today longshoremen work the cruise ships, 
vessels transporting fruit, automobiles, cement, and a wide variety of 
break bulk cargo.
  In July 2002, the ILWU negotiated a six year contract covering all 
locals in California, Washington, and Oregon that secured decent living 
wages and medical benefits covering the children and families of these 
outstanding workers!
  I urge my colleagues to join with me today to honor ILWU Local 29!

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