September is always one of the busiest months for the Maritime Trades Department, and 2025 proved no different as Port Councils across the country showcased the power of unity and action.
Toledo: Dinner with a Purpose
The Toledo Port Council opened Labor Day weekend with its annual dinner. While attendance was a bit lighter than last year, the event’s impact was even greater. An abundance of leftover food was donated to the striking workers at Libbey Glass, where three United Steelworkers (USW) locals and one International Association of Machinists (IAM) local are on strike after contract negotiations stalled in late August.
The workers are demanding fair pay, an end to mandatory overtime, and lower health insurance costs—citing sacrifices made when the company faced financial distress. The Toledo PMC also proudly marched in the city’s Labor Day parade, demonstrating its continued commitment to the local labor movement.
Southern California: 46th Harbor Labor Coalition Parade & Picnic
On the West Coast, the Port Maritime Council of Southern California helped lead the wildly successful 46th Los Angeles/Long Beach Harbor Labor Coalition parade and picnic, which drew participation from 50 unions.
PMC President Larry Barragan expressed pride that the parade is entirely sponsored by labor unions, underscoring the independence and strength of the movement.
The rally featured remarks from, AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler LA County Federation of Labor President Yvonne Wheeler, United Farm Workers President Teresa Romero, SEIU-USWW President David Huerta and other labor leaders.
Shuler delivered a powerful message on the importance of freedom, fairness, and security for all workers. She urged union members to stay united and continue organizing to protect hard-won rights and expand opportunities for every working family.
Adding to the community spirit, the United Fire Fighters of Los Angeles City (IAFF Local 112) once again volunteered to grill over 3,000 hot dogs for parade and picnic attendees.
Continuing Council Visits
As Labor Week wrapped up, the Department hit the road again for Port Council visits—an ongoing effort to connect with affiliates, observe meetings, and show support.
First stop: the San Francisco PMC, which held its monthly meeting after a summer break. Members welcomed new Secretary-Treasurer Joe Vincenzo, who succeeds long-time S-T Nick Marrone following his retirement from the Seafarers International Union in June.
Executive Secretary-Treasurer Brittanie Potter served as guest speaker, sharing her background, highlighting the Department’s current legislative priorities—including strong support for the Jones Act, U.S. shipbuilding, and federal workers—and encouraging continued solidarity across the maritime trades.
These September events captured the spirit of Labor Day: celebrating workers, standing in solidarity with those on strike, and strengthening the connections that keep our movement strong year-round.