International Port Movers Association (ILA)

History

2024: Workers strike

In late September 2024, dock workers at east coast USA ports began strike action to increase wages and reduce the pace of automation. That strike has paralyzed half of U.S. shipping and could trigger a new round and inflations lead to a shortage of goods if it lasts longer than a few weeks.

The contract between the ports and approximately 45,000 members of the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) expired at midnight from September 30 to October 1. Talks between the ILA and the U.S. Maritime Alliance (USMX), representing maritime carriers and port operators, stalled and workers at 36 ports took to the streets, marking the start of that union's first strike since 1977.

Apnews.com

The U.S. Maritime Alliance said it offered the union a nearly 50% pay increase and a tripling of pension contributions, as well as maintaining automation restrictions that were in the latest contract. They include a ban on fully automated equipment and a requirement that any use of semi-automatic equipment can be negotiated. In turn, ILA President Harold Daggett has publicly outlined the union's demands, which include a 77% pay increase.

Workers [in Philadelphia began a vigil shortly after midnight on Oct. 1, forming a circle at a railroad crossing outside the port and chanting "No work without a fair contract." On the sides of the union's trucks, information stands were placed with the inscription: "Automation harms families: ILA is in favor of preserving jobs."

Boise Butler, president of the local branch of the union, noted that shipping companies made billions during the pandemic by raising prices, but not salaries. He said the union will strike as long as it takes to reach a fair agreement and that the union has leverage over companies.^[1]

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