About 200 Longshore workers involved in a hostile labor dispute in Washington state made gathered at a courthouse on Friday, challenging the sheriff to peacefully arrest anyone in the crowd accused of committing a crime.
“We’re here. If you want us, come and get us,” shouted ILWU Local 21 President Dan Coffman, looking up at the building. Union members cheered his declaration but largely stood quietly in two long lines.
No law enforcement officers approached the crowd and nobody was arrested. After about 30 minutes, Coffman led the group away and said he hoped they could live their lives without fear of confrontation from authorities.