Longshoreman Strike Reminds Country That The People Are More Powerful Together

The recent halt to the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) strike is a clear win not just for dockworkers but for every union standing against corporate greed. After just two days of striking, the ILA secured a significant wage increase, reminding the world that collective action works. Strikes are not just disruptions—they are a powerful tool for working people to demand their fair share and resist corporate exploitation.

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Power to the People: How the Strike Succeeded

When the ILA walked out on Tuesday, they leveraged the most potent tool at their disposal: unity. With over 45,000 workers at East and Gulf Coast ports refusing to move cargo, the strike quickly gained momentum. Major ports like New York and Savannah ground to a halt, signaling the strength of organized labor in industries critical to the global economy.

Employers, represented by the U.S. Maritime Alliance, felt the pressure. Initially offering a meager wage increase, they were forced to concede a 62% wage hike over six years—far from their earlier stance. This swift change shows the power of collective bargaining. Without the strength of the union standing together, such gains would be unimaginable.

Strikes: The Catalyst for Change

This strike wasn't just about wages; it was about a movement. When unions fight, they fight for all workers—especially those watching from the sidelines. The dockworkers’ demands reached beyond their own benefits, challenging the greed that has defined corporate America for too long.

Corporations have enjoyed record-breaking profits in recent years, even while inflation strains households. The ILA didn’t just fight for better wages—they fought against a system rigged in favor of the wealthy. Their success proves that workers have the power to push back and win. The union’s president, Harold J. Daggett, and its leadership deserve immense credit for holding the line in this fight.

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The Ripple Effect: A Call for More Strikes

The triumph of the longshoremen sends a clear message to other industries: strikes work. In recent months, we've seen strikes across various sectors, from hotel workers to airline staff. What these movements have in common is a growing awareness among working people: they can no longer accept crumbs from the table. Whether it’s at ports, in factories, or on the frontlines of any workforce, laborers everywhere should feel inspired to demand what they deserve.

The ILA’s wage gains don’t just benefit longshoremen—they provide a blueprint for how unions across the nation can win their own battles. This is a call for more action, more strikes, and more unity. Corporate greed has met its match in the power of organized labor, and it’s time for workers everywhere to stand up and fight for their future.

In the words of President Biden, “Collective bargaining works.” And it’s not just for dockworkers—it’s for everyone.

For a bigger picture on how 45,000 workers striking affects the bottom line for billionaires at the top, check out my other article with a huge list of all the businesses and industries affected by a strike this big.