The Fight for Fair Wages: A Union Leader's Story

Meet Harold Daggett, a 78-year-old union leader who is shaking things up in the longshoremen community. He's been around the block and knows what it takes to make change happen. People might not realize it now, but without longshoremen, a lot of stuff would come to a halt. Cars wouldn't get delivered, malls wouldn't be stocked – you name it! Harold is the chief of the International Longshoremen’s Association and he isn't one to mince words. He's been around for a while, this being his fourth term as president. He’s leading thousands of workers in a stand against port operators. It’s not just about money; it’s also about stopping the machines from taking over jobs. Years of negotiations haven't always gone smoothly, but this time it feels different. The ILA wants better pay and conditions, while ports want to make things more efficient with automation. Workers have already hit the streets demanding higher wages and better benefits. Harold is in it for the long haul, using a bullhorn at the Port Authority in Elizabeth, New Jersey. Not everyone sees this strike as a good thing. Some think it's just disrupting the economy, while others see it as a fight for workers’ rights. Regardless of what people think, Harold is steadfast in his commitment. He believes that his union represents its members well and has a history of negotiating fair contracts. The strike also brings up questions about Harold's background. Some accuse him of shady dealings, but he remains confident that he can navigate these challenges. His focus is on protecting the rights of workers and keeping the union strong. This fight could shape the future for workers’ rights across the country. For Harold, whatever happens next will be a win for his union. He knows the ILA has done good work over the years, and he's determined to keep it that way.