Brothers and Sisters -

As Secretary-Treasurer of Teamsters 117, I am repeatedly overwhelmed by the solidarity and fortitude of our members, who fight every day against tremendous odds for dignity and respect at work.   

I’m thinking of our members at Davis Wire who stood up to a heartless employer during a 3-month strike, or members at the Department of Corrections who fought for safer working conditions after the tragic murder of one of their own, or members at UNFI who braved the winter rains to stand in solidarity with 72 of their brothers and sisters who were unlawfully permanently replaced by the company late last year.  

Just last week, members at Darigold took a similar stand.  They chose solidarity over fear by voting unanimously (161-0) to reject a proposal by their employer who is trying to intimidate and divide them.  These are just a few examples of the countless acts of courage and strength that Local 117 members show every single day.

The brave and inspirational acts of members of Teamsters 117 are why I am so humbled and honored to have been nominated, without opposition, along with the other members of your Local 117 Executive Board, to lead your great Union for three more years.   The nominations meeting took place on September 19 in a packed Union hall with hundreds of raucous Teamsters making their voices heard.  You put your faith in us to continue to fight for stronger contracts and better wages, benefits, and working conditions for all members of Teamsters 117. 

With this leadership, comes great joy, but also tremendous responsibility.   Your family’s livelihood depends on our experience and resolve.   We will do everything in our power to uphold our offices with the utmost integrity and commitment to the members.  Thank you for this opportunity.

In Solidarity,

Tracey A. Thompson
Secretary-Treasurer