May Day is a Day for Celebration and Reflection
A Message from John Coli, Jr., Secretary-Treasurer of Teamsters Local 727:
Today we celebrate May Day, or International Workers’ Day, that has its origins right here in Chicago. On May 4, 1886, thousands of Chicago workers and union members took to the streets and demanded a shorter workday. Even when violence broke out, these workers remained determined, never wavering from their demand for what was right and fair. The tragic events of that day, which has since became known as the Haymarket Affair, eventually led to the establishment of the eight-hour workday.
Each May Day we are reminded of the power we wield when we stand united.
Teamsters Local 727 has fought and won higher salaries, better working conditions, and increases in paid leave for our Union Brothers and Sisters because we have stood united and refused to back down. Because of the solidarity of Local 727 members, this great Union has secured unprecedented pension increases, has won backpay for wronged members, and has had the strength to fight and win against soda giants.
We win because we fight together.
This May Day, I hope each of us will take some time to remember those workers that came before us—the men, the women, our fellow Teamsters—that fought hard for many of the rights and workplace protections we count upon each day. Let us draw strength from their memories as we prepare to continue on the fight for justice, fairness, and respect for all workers.
In solidarity,
John Coli, Jr.
Secretary-Treasurer
Category: Union News
