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Pivotal Strike

The Minneapolis strike of 1934 is widely seen as a pivotal moment for the Teamsters and for the labor movement. The union also grew in stature, proving to be a powerful force in the labor movement. The outcome of the strike also led to the enactment of legislation acknowledging the rights of workers to organize and bargain, including the National Labor Relations Act and the Fair Labor Standards Act.“

The Minneapolis Strike was truly a turning point for labor, bringing recognition to the union and dignity to workers. But history has a way of repeating itself,” said Joe Dwyer, Assistant Trustee of Local 120. “If we take the 1934 strikers’ victories for granted and forget their struggles, we will likely have to fight their battles all over again. The struggles workers face today are not so different from those dark days 80 years ago.”

“This event made me look differently at how we got our union rights even after more than 40 years as a Teamster,” said Bill Moore, Trustee for Minnesota’s Local 120. “If viewing the pictures from the strike and the event commemorating it does not change your heart and your commitment to your union, you need to pinch yourself to make sure you are awake."

Original Article:

https://teamster.org/magazine/2014/summer/remember-1934

Testimonial

“They have demonstrated the dedication and leadership that
our Local requires. They have always provided sound counsel, support, and frank
discussion on matters involving the members, contract negotiations and our
Local.“ 

- Bruce Tillapaugh –Shop Steward. Island Farms, Victoria

"I have been a member of Teamsters Local 464 for 23 years and have seen many of the executives come and go. Some of the previous executives nearly ran the Local into bankruptcy including losing our pension.  Bobby Kornhass, Bob Ryder and Paul Barton brought us back from the brink. Since they took over in 2000, we at Dairyland (Saputo) have had the best contracts I have seen since I have been there."

- Randy Onyschak

“I look after a lot of members in a very big plant. For years I had to fight for them by myself with no help at all from any of the Union’s representatives or Officers. This changed completely once Bobby, Bob and Paul were in office. Now I have access to my reps 24 hours a day, 7 days a week!  They’re always there to back me up.” 

- Darrell Lawres – Chief Shop Steward. Saputo, Sperling