CARMEN’S QUARTERLY • SUMMER 2021
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President’s Report A Message from President Jim Evers Dear Brothers and Sisters, While it's been a challenging year for drivers, operators, and all members — Local 589 members have shown up in ways that have separated us from the pack. We went to work each day in sun, snow, and under unimaginable stress. These sacrifices have not gone unnoticed. While many other industries were cutting work and laying off staff, we worked with the MBTA to avoid any layoffs for our members. Recently new members have been added as hiring resumes and picks up speed. Moving forward, we will continue to fight in contract negotiations and the pension arbitration to ensure that every member is fairly compensated and protected. As a Local, we've also fought hard in the legislative arena to protect our work from every angle — whether it's funding, representation on the FMCB, or increased penalties for assaults on drivers. Our work as part of a coalition of labor and community groups to campaign for a labor seat and a rider seat and the institution of a funded low-income fare program demonstrate our goals and commitment. These two items are just the start of our mission to build a sustainable transit system that works for all. We're also looking forward to members reconnecting after a long year apart. Our first in-person membership meeting since the pandemic began took place on June 15, with a tremendous turnout. It was highly gratifying to see our
September and later in the fall. We have successfully pushed back in every way possible on policies that could have compromised our members' retirement security.
members reunite with one another after time apart, and we
Thanks to your hard work, we are able to accomplish much
will keep up that camaraderie in the coming months with
together, and we are always looking for more ways to support
a return to monthly in-person meetings. With members in
our membership. Remember to sign up for the Carmen's
mind, we will be introducing and supporting new initiatives
Union app, where you will get the latest updates, and can
to prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion, and also mental
submit any grievances to your delegate. Please continue
health among our membership. Stay tuned for more updates
showing up to our in-person membership meetings each
on training and member committees in the future, and don't
month to make your voice heard. Together, we can work
hesitate to reach out if you have any suggestions or would
towards a safe and just public transit system for all.
like to get involved.
In solidarity,
This fall, we are aiming to wrap up contract negotiations,
Jim Evers
protect our pensions, and advocate for increased workplace
President
protections. The pension arbitration dates have been set for
Boston Carmen's Union Local 589
