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Teamsters 89 Joins Kentucky AFL-CIO
Aug 10, 2016

Oct 21, 2015

In 2005 the International Brotherhood of Teamsters ended their affiliation with the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO). For those who are unfamiliar with it, the AFL-CIO is an umbrella organization that acts as the collective voice for hundreds of labor unions across the country, giving even the smallest organization the means to stay actively involved in the American labor movement.

While there were many reasons behind the IBT’s decision to leave the AFL-CIO, it is now evident this was the wrong thing to do. The departure further fractured the labor movement throughout the country at a time when all unions and their members desperately needed to stand together in solidarity.

Today we are very proud to announce that Teamsters Local 89 has reversed that decision and is now officially affiliated with the Kentucky Federation of the AFL-CIO. While Local 89 has worked closely with the AFL-CIO on labor issues for many years, this affiliation is a landmark action bringing even greater unity to labor across the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

In an effort to make this decision all inclusive, the merits of rejoining the AFL-CIO was brought before the members at the September 11th General Membership Meeting. After explaining the issue to the members President Zuckerman opened the floor to questions and comments. Recognizing the importance of this moment, several members stood and spoke up in favor of the affiliation. In turn, all those in attendance unanimously supported a motion made to join the State Federation.

“For far too long the labor movement has been splintered. It is time for us all to unite and assist one another in the shared goal of strengthening all unions in Kentucky,” said Local 89 President Fred Zuckerman. “No longer can we afford to let our differences divide us. Labor unions in Kentucky have far more in common than we do apart, and we must stand together and fight as one for a better future.”

The significance of this affiliation cannot be overstated. The working people of Kentucky have been under constant assault for many years, and it is imperative that the labor movement in the Commonwealth stands united. With a combined voice we can move forward to demand the dignity, respect, and livelihoods our members and all Kentucky workers deserve.

“The affiliation of Teamsters Local 89 with the Kentucky State AFL-CIO joins together another great union with their brothers and sisters of organized labor across Kentucky as labor unites to battle the wealthy adversaries of Kentucky's hard working men and women,” said Bill Londrigan, President of the Kentucky State AFL-CIO. “We are gratified and excited to work in unity with the leadership, staff and members of Local 89 as we engage our enemies with new tactics and increased strength. While our relationship has always been positive, beneficial and in a spirit of solidarity this affiliation cements our commitment to share resources to achieve the goal of advancing the interests of those who work for a living."

The affiliation into the Kentucky Federation was the second major act of labor solidarity led by Teamsters Local 89 this year. The first was our previously documented affiliation with the Greater Louisville Central Labor Council (CLC) in January. Combined, these actions allow the CLC, the AFL-CIO, and Teamsters Local 89 to work together with even greater levels of transparency, solidarity, and ultimately success in the coming years.


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Teamsters Local 89
3813 Taylor Blvd
Louisville, KY 40215
  502-368-5885


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