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| Militant/Bernie Senter |
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LOS ANGELES — Port truck drivers began their sixth strike in two years against Pacific 9 Transportation July 21. They’re demanding union recognition and a contract. Picketing is organized at the trucking company and firms that haul cargo to the L.A. port and Long Beach marine terminals.
“We are in this struggle because we have to work 16 to 18 hours a day to subsist,” Rigoberto Monarrez told the Militant while walking the picket line. “The company deducts from our pay all the repairs, license plates, diesel and insurance. We have no benefits, health insurance or coverage for on-the-job injuries. We’re demanding to be seen as employees not contractors.” Truckers have won Teamster union contracts at four hauling companies — Eco Flow Transportation, Shippers Transport Express, Toll Group and Horizon Lines. |
| — DEBORAH LIATOS |