West Coast Contract to be Ratified?

Next week, ILWU leaders from along the West Coast will meet in a “Caucus” to review the temporary contract that was put in place in February. If the leaders collectively recommend to agree upon the contract, it will then be submitted to the ILWU Rank and File to undergo a 90 day review and vote by secret ballot.

Some vocal members of the ILWU at the Port of Oakland have not been shy about expressing their opposition to the contract. However, it is still unclear whether key members of the Rank and File share this opposition. We have heard reports that US Secretary of Labor, Tom Perez, is monitoring the situation closely. Essentially, we must remember that the contract agreement is not behind us yet, as its ratification cannot be taken for granted amidst the circumstances.

We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates accordingly.