Dear Brothers and Sisters of the ILA,
As I reflect on this year, it feels like only yesterday that we stood united to ratify our historic Master Agreement. Now, here we are at Labor Day—a day that reminds us why our solidarity matters. Because of our unity, determination, and leadership, the men and women of the ILA are protected by one of the strongest collective bargaining agreements in America.
But our success did not happen overnight, nor did it happen alone. We stand on the shoulders of generations of longshore workers who came before us, along with countless others in the labor movement who paved the way. Our roots stretch back to America’s earliest days and to the founding of the ILA in 1877. Today, we carry that proud legacy forward as an international force, keeping the lifeblood of America’s commerce moving through our ports.
Labor Day is more than just a holiday-it is our opportunity to honor the struggles and sacrifices that built this union, to celebrate the victories we have achieved together, and to look boldly toward the future we continue to shape. We honor our history, we embrace our solidarity, and we reaffirm our commitment to protecting the dignity and prosperity of every ILA member.
On this Labor Day, let us salute ourselves and the great work we do. May we remain united, strong, and proud of the essential role we play in America’s economy.
God bless America. God bless the ILA. Have a safe, happy, and meaningful Labor Day.
Fraternally,
Alan A. Robb
President
South Atlantic & Gulf Coast District
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