Longshore work is physically demanding and dangerous because of the large machinery used to move cargo. The work is also casual by nature, meaning that there is no guarantee of work on any given day. As a result, it can take years to move up the ranks and have access to full-time work when it is available. Longshore workers are a diverse group of men and women who work hard on the docks and are active in their communities, with a strong culture of charitable giving. Many longshore workers are multigenerational, coming from families with a long and proud tradition of working on the docks. The term “Longshore” was first recorded in the early 1800s and means “along the shore.”

We are a powerful organization that stands for quality service and wins for our members and the communities where they live and work. We will unite all of our members into one strong union that adapts to changing surroundings. We will bring a union voice to all dockworkers in North Carolina and abroad. We will ensure future generations are prepared to lead their successors into the future. We will collaborate with the public to win resources for services that make communities stronger. We will create every opportunity for members to lead in their communities and at work, including encouraging and training union members to hold political office. Finally, we will hold ourselves and others accountable for our values. Together we will be the model for unions across America.