
Stewards Encouraged to Support Striking Cargill Members
October 22, 2007
On
October 6, approximately 100 stewards from Local 238 in Cedar Rapids attended a
training seminar. The program was conducted by the Teamsters Department of
Training and Development, with assistance from the Teamsters Department of Field
Action and Iowa Workers' Compensation.
The
stewards in attendance represent diverse public and private sector employers in
the region.
Gary Dunham, Local 238 Secretary-Treasurer, welcomed the group and recognized
the stewards for their dedication, hard work and tireless efforts on behalf of
the union. He also encouraged them to take active steps to support fellow
members on strike at Cargill and introduced three stewards attending the
training who are a part of the group on strike.
Myron Sharp, Teamsters Training Coordinator, then led the stewards through
interactive workshops which focused on internal organizing, contract enforcement
and the roles, rights and responsibilities of Teamster stewards.
Pat
Lynch, a Teamsters Field Action Representative, discussed the importance of the
2008 election and how it will impact the labor movement. He also encouraged the
stewards to get active in state and national politics through the DRIVE program.
Matt Petrzelka, an attorney with Iowa Workers' Compension , wrapped up the day
by covering the basics of laws, including the need to document and report
workplace injuries with the group.
The
Department of Training and Development conducts more than 100 workshops a year
throughout the United States and Canada, as well as at the International Union's
headquarters in Washington, D.C.