Transit workers are taking a stand against the contract concessions which TWU Local 100 President John Samuelsen is offering to the MTA. At their union meeting on Wednesday, Nov. 13, Conductors and Tower Operators voted unanimously for Samuelsen to withdraw these concessions, and to oppose all concessions. One Executive Board Member joined the ranks in this vote.
The contract proposal announced by Local 100 on October 25 helps the bosses attack future employees. Samuelsen’s proposal would require new hires to pay more for medical care, and to work two years longer to get top pay and full vacation time.The TWU Local 100 report on the recent contract rally quotes the old slogan: “An injury to one is an injury to all.” But these concessions will undercut the solidarity which the union movement is based on.
We call on all union militants, especially those elected to lead or who aspire to lead, to join in this demand. We urge all interested members to join this fight and raise motions wherever possible to increase the pressure on President Samuelsen and to make elected officials go on record as to where they stand.
(signed)
John Ferretti, Conductor, Shop Steward, TWU Local 100
Jason Hicks, Track Worker, TWU Local 100
Seth Rosenberg, Train Operator, Shop Steward, TWU Local 100
Eric Josephson, member, TWU Local 100 (ret.)