City of Commerce Bus Drivers Unite Under Teamsters Local 986 for Representation

City of Commerce Bus Drivers Unite Under Teamsters Local 986

In a significant development for transportation workers, more than 50 bus drivers for the City of Commerce have opted to join Teamsters Local 986. This collective action marks a crucial step toward attaining robust union representation and lays down a pathway for enhanced working conditions through a legally enforceable contract.

The decision to unionize emerged from ongoing concerns regarding compensation and scheduling practices. Bus drivers, who are on the front lines of public transit, have put a spotlight on crucial issues that directly affect their ability to perform their duties safely and efficiently.

"These new members serve the public every day, performing essential work to get people in the community where they need to go. We appreciate their trust and look forward to providing them the strong support they deserve," expressed Raymond B. Whitmer, Secretary-Treasurer of Teamsters Local 986. It is a sentiment echoed by the workers themselves, who expressed their collective gratitude towards Teamsters Local 495 for their guidance in the initial stages of this journey.

Cheri Haruna, worksite leader at City of Commerce Transit, shared a personal testimony about the organizing efforts, stating, "We stood together and built something of our own. Once we came together, we took our time and chose the union partner we believed would support us best." This collaboration underscores the importance of solidarity in achieving better workplace conditions.

Teamsters Local 986 is no stranger to representing workers' interests, boasting nearly 30,000 members spanning across the western United States as well as locations in Hawaii and Guam. These figures are indicative of the growing strength and influence of the union in advocating for workers' rights. The commitment of Teamsters to uplift the voices of those on the ground demonstrates a powerful alliance that seeks fair treatment and recognition in the workplace.

As the newly unionized drivers embark on this transformative journey, they will engage in negotiations to present their demands formally and ensure that their concerns regarding compensation and working conditions are met. The decisive action of these bus drivers has set a precedent that resonates well beyond the borders of Commerce—reflecting a nationwide trend of workers uniting for their rights and participation under the banner of organized labor.

For more information on Teamsters Local 986 and initiatives aimed at improving working conditions for transit workers, interested individuals can visit local986.org. Together, these bus drivers' collective move holds the potential to inspire workers across various sectors, encouraging them to consider the benefits of joining forces for better representation and working conditions.

This organizing effort signifies not simply a vote for union membership, but also a robust affirmation of workers' rights and a steadfast commitment to advocating for the needs of those who play a fundamental role in public transportation. In an era where labor unions are increasingly being called upon to safeguard the interests of workers, this case stands out as a powerful reminder of the strength found in unity and collective action.