Former NJ Assemblyman Jamel Holley Demands Political Leadership to Stand Up for Hardworking Middle-Class Longshoremen Workers—Our Families and Economy Are at Stake!

Former New Jersey Assemblyman Jamel Holley, who served as Vice Chair of the Assembly Homeland Security and State Preparedness Committee stands in solidarity with the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) rank-and-file members as they prepare to take a decisive stand for fair wages and benefits

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

September 20, 2024

Elizabeth, NJ – “As we approach a critical juncture in labor relations with the longshoremen at our eastern ports, it is imperative that our government leadership steps up to facilitate dialogue and bring all parties to the negotiating table. The potential for a labor action by the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) is not just a matter of contract disputes; it poses a significant threat to our supply chains that could dwarf the disruptions we experienced during the pandemic,” says Holley, who represents the 20th legislative district. This district includes the area around the Turnpike’s Exit 13A, which encompasses the largest port on the East Coast, Newark Airport, major rail lines, densely populated cities, and chemical and petroleum plants.

“We must recognize that the ILA workforce plays a vital role in maintaining the flow of commerce, which is essential for American business owners and consumers alike. A strike would have far-reaching consequences, jeopardizing not only jobs but also the stability of our economy as a whole. It is critical that we protect American jobs from the encroachment of foreign-owned companies that are pushing for increased automation in our ports,” he says.

Holley highlights, “While technology can enhance efficiency and improve operations, we must approach modernization with caution. Without proper safeguards, the integration of automation can lead to job losses for essential workers who are the backbone of our supply chains. Recent incidents, like the Crowdstrike outage, highlight the vulnerabilities that can arise from over-reliance on technology.”

Holley continues, “It is crucial that any plans for modernization prioritize the preservation of jobs and include robust protections for workers. We owe it to the ILA members, American businesses, and consumers to ensure that our ports remain operational while also providing fair wages and benefits for those who keep our economy moving.”

“The hardworking men and women of the ILA are the backbone of our ports, and they deserve wages that reflect their vital contributions to our economy,” said Holley. “This is about fairness and dignity in the workplace. As we face rising inflation and increasing living costs, it is imperative that we support those who keep our supply chains moving.”

ILA President Harold J. Daggett has emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “A sleeping giant is ready to roar on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, if a new Master Contract Agreement is not in place.” The ILA has been engaged in negotiations for nearly two years, and frustrations are mounting as USMX has failed to negotiate in good faith, opting instead for a misleading propaganda campaign against the dedicated workforce.

Holley, who has a history of advocating for workers’ rights and fair labor practices, urges the community to recognize the importance of the ILA’s struggle. “When workers unite for what is right, they not only fight for themselves but for future generations. I call on all supporters of labor rights to stand with the ILA as they prepare for this critical action.”

The ILA rank-and-file members are ready to take this ultimate stand, emphasizing that their fight is not just for their own livelihoods but for the integrity of labor rights across the nation. Holley encourages everyone to support the ILA’s endeavors and to recognize the essential role these workers play in our economy.