When we last saw Chalmer and Garry, they were leaving Mountain City, TN, after dropping off a truckload of relief supplies to the storm-ravaged area (See the article below if you missed it!). The duo was headed toward Richmond, VA, for a show of Union Solidarity.

On October 8, 2024, nearly 100 Richmond, VA city workers, union leaders, and local officials gathered at City Hall, demanding that Mayor Levar Stoney and his administration come to the negotiating table and bargain in good faith with Teamsters Local 322. The rally was organized in response to the administration’s refusal to negotiate a fair first contract for the workers The union represents the 600 employees in the labor and trades bargaining unit, which includes employees from the Department of Public Works (DPW), Department of Public Utilities (DPU), Department of Parks and Recreation, and the Department of Planning and Development Review.

The rally saw support from several notable figures, including Councilwoman Reva Trammell, Councilman Andreas Addison, and candidates for public office. Adding to the solidarity, four Teamster tractor trailers from Teamsters Local 135 (Indiana), Teamsters Joint Council 94 (Virginia), Teamsters Local 118 (Rochester, NY), and Teamsters Local 776 (Pennsylvania) circled City Hall, blowing their air horns in support of the workers.

Teamster Power is on display in Richmond!

The rally drew attention to the downtown area. Workers throughout the area came out to see what was going on as the trucks circled City Hall. The Mayor was in the building at the time and with its proximity to street level he was well aware that the Teamsters were in town!

Our Truck coming up on City Hall!

The union’s proposal not only seeks to address pay disparities and establish a step scale with longevity premiums but also calls for enhanced safety measures and training. This demand follows two major incidents in the past year involving city employees.

Dwayne Johnson, Secretary-Treasurer, and Director of Organizing for Teamsters Local 322 added "Our members voted overwhelmingly for this union because they believe in fair treatment and want a contract that reflects their hard work and dedication to the city." "This isn't just about pay-it is about respect for the people who keep this city functioning," said Brian Peyton, President of Teamsters Local 322. "Richmond workers deserve better than being stalled and dismissed. It’s time for Mayor Stoney to stop maintaining the status quo and come to the table ready to negotiate in good faith."

Commented Local 776 President Ed Thompson: “An injustice to one is an injustice to all. We are honored to stand beside our Brothers and Sisters in Richmond as they exercise their right to be Union Members and have a voice in the workplace.”

As of now, Mayor Stoney's administration has reached out to resume negotiations with Local 322. Bargaining sessions are scheduled to resume on October 27^th and 28^th.