On Saturday, Jul 10, 2021workers at XPO in Miami made history by voting unanimously to approve their first-ever Teamster contract and the first contract at XPO Logistics in the nation.
It was a long road to get to this point as their journey began well over 6 years ago, way back when their company was still named Con-way Freight. These workers, who operate out of the Miami XPO facility, voted to join Teamsters Local 769 on December 11th, 2014. What they had to endure to get to this point is nothing short of infuriating. XPO driver Mike Zangrillo said it best when he spoke at the recent 2021 IBT Convention, stating “They (XPO) unilaterally reject any attempt to allow dignity and respect in the workplace. They have become known around the world as the poster child for corporate greed.”
XPO members started arriving at the Union hall early on Saturday morning, eager to get down to business. Teamsters Local 769 President Josh Zivalich, Business Agent David Shillinger, and IBT negotiator Bill Alexander were on hand, along with IBT organizers, to answer every question and ensure that every member made an informed decision. It was clear early on that these workers appreciated all that they had accomplished and were eager to vote on the contract. Many XPO locations outside of the United States are union shops, but these workers would be the first to enter into a contract with XPO in this country.
After all the votes were cast and the ballots were counted, there wasn’t a single vote against the agreement and the contract would go into effect immediately. While they were all excited by the outcome, they seemed unsurprised by the results and it became clear that they were continuing to act as one, as they have now for well over six years.
“Workers have picketed, leafletted, filed labor charges, testified in court, filed lawsuits, conducted a ULP strike and more to win justice, and now that justice is here with the ratification of their first contract,” said Josh Zivalich, President of Teamsters Local 769 in Miami.
The contract includes “just-cause” protections, a grievance process, successorship language, job protection language, and retirement protections, among many other improvements.
“We remained strong, united, and focused here in Miami and we never quit our fight for justice,” said Mike Zangrillo. “I urge my coworkers in other locations to fight for a fair contract and to not give up.”
General President Hoffa recognized the importance of this event stating “XPO management said workers in the U.S. would never ratify a contract, but never is now.” President Hoffa continued, “I applaud the workers who stood strong and united over the past six years, despite the company’s horrific anti-worker actions and delays.”
“It was a long, hard-fought battle. The company didn’t want these workers to have a contract.”, said Business Agent David Schillinger. “Congratulations to these strong workers who demonstrated the true Teamsters spirit. They showed tremendous solidarity, patience, and determination in achieving their goal. A Teamster contract.”
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