Victorious Vote: Zum Transportation Workers Unite with Teamsters Union

Teamsters Local 570 Welcomes New Members from Zum Transportation

In a significant labor victory, nearly 300 workers from Zum Transportation located in Jessup, Maryland, have officially joined Teamsters Local 570. This decision follows an impressive four-to-one vote in favor of union representation, which aims to advocate for improved working conditions, fair wages, and stronger benefits for its members.

The workers, who include bus drivers, van drivers, trainers, and attendants, expressed their frustrations with management's inadequate treatment and unfulfilled promises regarding wages and working conditions. "I voted to join the Teamsters because management has made false promises to employees for far too long," shared Karl Fernandez, a driver at Zum. He emphasized the need for a collective bargaining agreement that would guarantee better wages, safer working environments, and protection from unfair treatment.

Sean Cedenio, the Secretary-Treasurer of Local 570, highlighted the importance of this victory, stating, "With an overwhelming yes vote, Zum transportation workers have sent a resounding message to their employer that they will no longer be treated with disrespect and offered the bare minimum." This newly formed union membership marks a positive turning point for these essential workers who provide crucial transportation services for the Howard County Public Schools.

Dwight Blackwell, another driver from Zum, articulated the sentiment of the group, saying, "The way that we have been treated is unfair and enough is enough. We want the same basic benefits as management, including paid holidays and annual leave. Plus, we want compensation for non-working days due to school closures or teacher meetings, as we have not received a full paycheck since before Christmas break."

This move to unionize reflects a growing trend of workers fighting for their rights across various industries. Teamsters Local 570 has a history of representing employees from diverse sectors throughout Baltimore and its nearby areas, advocating for fair labor practices and conditions in workplaces. Now, with the addition of Zum Transportation workers, the union gears up to support these new members in negotiating their first Teamsters contract, with the hope of achieving tangible improvements in their day-to-day working lives.

The workers’ decision to unite under Teamsters Local 570 encapsulates a larger narrative of labor rights movements in the United States, showcasing the increasing willingness of workers to stand up for their rights and demand better treatment from employers. As they embark on this new chapter, the union and its members remain committed to pushing for reforms that prioritize the welfare and dignity of all workers.

For more information about Teamsters Local 570 and its mission to support workers, visit team570.org. With unified voices, the future looks promising for the newly organized members at Zum Transportation.