From the International Longshoremen’s Association web site:
The ILA published this photo and article in support of ILWU President Robert McEllrath, pictured here with supporters from global maritime unions.
ILWU President Bob McEllrath Convicted of Misdemeanor Offense In Longview, Washington; ILA Stands With Brave ILWU President Who Said: ‘Fighting For Good Jobs In America Shouldn’t Be A Crime’
SEPT 28: The International Longshoremen’s Association learned that Robert McEllrath, President of the International Longshore and Warehouse Union was convicted today of a misdemeanor offense in Longview, Washington for “obstructing a train.” The ILWU leader was sentenced to one day in jail and a $500.00 fine.
“Fighting for good jobs in America shouldn’t be a crime,” McEllrath said at the time of his arrest for fighting for jobs and jurisdiction for his members. He remained just as firm to his union’s principles today in court, saying before his sentencing that he had “no regrets about leading men and women against corporate greed and helping them fight to protect middle class jobs in America.”
A large group of supporters lined the Cowitz County Courthouse surrounding their ILWU President as a show of support and solidarity.
ILA President Harold J. Daggett, who was with President McEllrath in Washington, DC a few weeks ago, expressed sadness for the conviction but offered praise for the ILWU leader.
“All working men and women across America, especially all longshore workers on both coasts, are saddened that a jury would convict a fearless labor leader of any crime, especially one for actions that were protecting his membership and their livelihoods,” said President Daggett. “We stand with Bob McEllrath and the membership of the ILWU applauding his bravery for fighting for his membership. Bob McEllrath was fighting for all of us when sought to protect ILWU jurisdiction.”
More at the International Longshoremen’s Association web site
