(The International Brotherhood of Teamsters issued the following news release on April 14.)
WASHINGTON — The International Brotherhood of Teamsters announced today that it will not accept the 2005 Samuel Gompers National Labor Award from the American Red Cross until the organization resolves labor disputes in three states where workers are fighting for Teamster representation.
The Samuel Gompers National Labor Award is given out annually in recognition of labor organizations that have demonstrated a proven commitment to offering support to the Red Cross in their disaster relief efforts.
“The hardworking men and women that helped the Teamsters earn this award know the true meaning of personal sacrifice for the greater good,” said Jim Hoffa, Teamsters General President. “I am confident that they not only understand, but support our decision to decline this honor while our brothers and sisters still fight for recognition with the Red Cross.”
Workers in Arizona, Missouri and Ohio have been repeatedly denied their right to union representation by management at Red Cross locations despite the majority of the workers signing representation authorization cards.
More than 500 workers have encountered strong resistance by the Red Cross in the form of unlawful intimidation and anti-union campaigns by the organization. These dedicated employees continue their important work despite inadequate healthcare packages and long hours with low wages.
“It is my hope that these disputes will be resolved quickly and our two organizations can return to working together in the future,” Hoffa said.
The International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.4 million hardworking men and women throughout the United States and Canada.