The SOLIDARITY that DEFINES Us the PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

TThe New Year began with a celebration of the spirit and solidarity of Local 100G members at Ingredion in Cedar Rapids, Iowa who overwhelmingly approved a new collective bargaining agreement that ended their 176-day strike.

From coast to coast and across North America, BCTGM members offered unwavering support to their brothers and sisters in Cedar Rapids. Worker victories like this are directly linked to a solid foundation of worker solidarity, which is part of the very fabric of the BCTGM.

I’m talking about real solidarity, not empty gestures and bandwagon posturing; the type of solidarity where the outcome is still uncertain and it may cost you something in the short-term. Solidarity is most important when times are tough and disagreements are strong—when the sun isn’t shining and the snow blinds your eyes, as the wind rips through you and you still hold that line strong. Solidarity is what builds a strong union.

To the brave members of Local 100G and their families, I say this: Your perseverance and dedication in getting a fair contract is now part of the legacy of the BCTGM. We are forever grateful and proud to call you brothers and sisters.

Let us not forget the overwhelming support our striking brothers and sisters received. Donations and support from BCTGM local unions. Letters of support from politicians and allies. Local, state and national support from the AFL-CIO and its 12 million members. Solidarity on social media.

This fight in Cedar Rapids shows us all the importance of unity. We proved that we don’t walk away from a tough fight or turn our backs on the rights of our members. It was the strength of our Local 100G members, with an army of support behind them, that won this strike and proves that the will of workers cannot and will not be silenced.

This show of force by working people continues a long history of BCTGM struggles. Over the past few years, BCTGM members at some of the largest food processing companies in the world have said ‘enough is enough’ and hit the streets in great shows of solidarity. Striking may be a last resort, but it is always an option.

I look into 2023 and beyond with hope and enthusiasm for what lies ahead for the BCTGM. We will continue to defend those who need us and lead the march to better the lives of workingclass people and their families.

All this cannot be achieved without our members setting the example daily on the shop floor. Your solidarity and tireless efforts championing workers’ rights and providing a voice on the job is what makes our union as strong as it is!