A secure retirement is like “Happy Days,” but pensions have not always existed for working people, nor were they provided by the good graces of the employer. The catalyst was the strength of union members joining together and speaking with one voice. It was the constant work of IBEW 1245 engaged with employers on our behalf, that we achieved our retirement security.
Even though you are retired, unions are still very important for you and for the most important people in your life. The political influence of businesses, that want to destroy unions and pensions, is becoming stronger and more sophisticated. Protecting the financial security you paid for every hour you worked, would be self serving in the best way. To assist you, IBEW 1245 has created the Organizing Stewards. Labor councils, in most urban areas, offer numerous opportunities to get involved.
The IBEW 1245 Organizing Stewards are made up of active and retired IBEW 1245 members, building strength one person at a time. Its goal is twofold — keep members informed of events that could have an adverse impact on their economic security; and elect labor friendly candidates. Phone banks and other tools give us the opportunity to offer our strength wherever it is needed.
Your local labor council is also a lifeblood of union strength. The stronger and more diverse the council, the stronger the local economy and the greater chance that workers will enjoy a living wage. At most labor councils, there is a strong participation of retirees from a number of unions. This provides needed support at times when working union members find it difficult to get off work. Your involvement will keep you abreast of issues that could have a negative impact on your retirement security.
Working or retired, we all have the opportunity to take an active role in electing labor-friendly local officials. This will ensure that your children and grandchildren will have the same economic security you enjoy. In order to continue enjoying “Happy Days” in our retirement, it is imperative we remember the strong connection between our economic security and our political choices. When we have financial security, we possess the ‘power’ to pursue those interests that are important to us.
Thank you and stay COVID-19 safe by encouraging the use of the mask.
–Bill Wallace, IBEW 1245 Organizing Steward and Retiree