News Article - June 1, 2009

From Randy’s Desk:


United We Stand

 

     Today, more than ever we need to stand united -united in a brotherhood, standing firm in our solidarity and strong in our purpose. A united voice is louder and stronger; there is strength in numbers and together we can do more to ensure that the American dream continues.

 

     In the wake of economic crisis our unity is more important than ever. Being a union member is far more than just a title or label, it is an identity, a pride, a right to work and stand together for the good of all of us. Together we build what no single person could do alone.

 

    We are all a part of BAC Local 3, the Building Trades and the AFL-CIO. In part and as a whole we build America.

 

    BAC Local 3- Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers- has members working in brick, marble, terrazzo, pointing, caulking and cleaning, metal polishing and tile. We are all one union. No area of specialty is more important than another and our strength depends upon us working together and supporting one another.

 

    BAC is the oldest, continuous construction union in the United States. Since 1865 our support for one another has been the key to our survival during economic challenges and construction downturns. Our united voice has continued to remain strong and in turn we have received support from our leaders at every level.

 

    Promoting and supporting every trade in BAC Local 3 is critical. We need to band together and make ourselves visible to one another and the community.

 

Attend your local chapter meetings, general meetings and other BAC events. Get to know your fellow BAC member personally. If asked to picket, participate; show support for all of the trades by not crossing picket lines.

 

    Our joint community involvement shows a pride in our work that is often missed in the non-union. Our visibility educates people about the value of quality work and the benefits of union membership and strength. Get involved in community actions, city council meetings, school boards, volunteer groups and places where your influence can promote the use of union work.

 

    Political action leads to change. Participate in precinct walking, phone banking and promoting the candidates and propositions that are supportive of unions and the rights that give us power and strength.

 

     We live in a country where we can vote and the voice of the people counts. Stay informed about candidates and issues that directly effect unions. Support those who support unions; research information before any election. This information is available at www.LaborVote.com.

 

    The area Building Trades are a strong and active voice for all of the construction/labor unions. Our unity and support of other unions encourages them to support us. Remember that we have collective strength; an endorsement by the Building trades Council signifies that it is good for the entire body of unions and their members.

 

     Remember to honor the picket lines of other unions. This respect helps all unions by sending a stronger message and reinforces the strength of our bargaining power. Others will, in turn, support us when we picket.

 

     The AFL-CIO is a collective body made up of many unions. BAC Local 3, most construction unions and a variety of other service and government employee unions have a united strength by being a part of this organization. Shop at stores that employ union members. More business at union stores leads to expansion and construction; new projects create jobs for our members.

 

    Union membership has united Americans for decades. Our united voice along with our leadership will together pave the way for new opportunities to keep America working strong.