This education link has been set up to keep all ILA members informed of what’s taking place in our industry; past and present. This site will include articles, stories, photographs and videos. At times, some of the videos will include training and be educational. Other times, we will take a look into our past and learn more and more about the history of this union and how it was built into what it is today.
ILA Education/History
Never forget the sacrifices ILA members made to build our great union into what it is today
Rebuttal to Claims of Inefficiency in U.S. Ports
By Dennis A. Daggett, ILA International Executive Vice President
I understand it’s nearly impossible to rebut every inaccurate report that circulates in the media. However, this particular narrative is too misleading and damaging to ignore, and it needs to be addressed. The recent wave of reporting criticizing the efficiency of U.S. ports is not only inaccurate but also irresponsible. The claims are largely based on skewed interpretations of data that fail to account for the fundamental differences between U.S. marine terminals and transshipment hubs in other parts of the world.
Let’s address the comparison to ports such as Dar es Salaam in Tanzania and Pointe-Noire in the Republic of Congo, cited in the World Bank and S&P Global Market Intelligence survey. These rankings heavily favor transshipment hubs, which are fundamentally different in operation from U.S. ports. Transshipment ports primarily handle containers that are unloaded from one vessel and immediately loaded onto another, with minimal interaction with inland transportation systems or domestic cargo. In contrast, U.S. ports are full-service gateways that handle a complex mix of imports and exports, integrating rail, trucking, and warehousing to deliver goods across a vast geography. Comparing these two types of facilities is like comparing apples to oranges.
Volume and Complexity
U.S. ports handle one of the highest volumes of cargo in the world. The Port of Los Angeles processes over 9 million TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units) annually, while the Port of New York and New Jersey handles approximately 9.5 million TEUs. These ports are not only managing import and export cargo but are also critical links in a supply chain that serves vast regions of the country. This includes moving goods to distribution centers and rail networks spanning thousands of miles. The scale and complexity of these operations far exceed the operations of most transshipment ports.
Labor Productivity
Despite the challenges, longshore workers represented by the ILA and other unions consistently demonstrate exceptional productivity. During the COVID-19 pandemic, when global supply chains faced unprecedented disruptions, U.S. port workers kept the economy moving under extreme pressure. Their contribution is unparalleled and often unrecognized in these so-called efficiency studies.
Manipulated Metrics
The World Bank’s study relies on criteria like vessel turnaround times, which inherently favor transshipment ports that focus exclusively on unloading and reloading containers. U.S. ports, on the other hand, must account for time-intensive processes like customs clearance, intermodal transfers, and extensive safety and security protocols mandated by U.S. law. Ignoring these factors distorts the efficiency rankings.
Global Rankings Misrepresented
The mainstream media conveniently ignores surveys that rank U.S. ports among the most reliable in the world. For instance, ports operated by ILA members consistently rank higher globally for throughput and reliability than their competitors. This is a testament to the hard work and dedication of unionized workers who ensure that cargo flows smoothly despite mounting challenges.
Outdated Supporting Infrastructure
What no one seems to be talking about is the outdated infrastructure that supports U.S. ports, such as highways, bridges, rail systems, and dredging operations. Many of these critical connections to the ports are decades behind the needs of modern commerce. Trucks transporting goods often face bottlenecks on congested and deteriorating highways. Aging rail systems struggle to keep up with the demands of intermodal transport. Dredging operations to accommodate larger vessels lag behind, forcing delays and inefficiencies. Is that the ILA’s fault, too? Instead of pointing fingers at the workforce, attention should be directed toward improving these foundational systems that connect ports to the broader economy. Without such investments, no port can achieve optimal efficiency, regardless of its operations.
Role of Private Equity Influence
It is also critical to note the growing influence of private equity firms in controlling the narrative. These firms, which often have investments in ports and infrastructure globally, may benefit from casting U.S. ports in a negative light to push automation and deregulation agendas. This coordinated narrative overlooks the proven productivity of human-operated facilities, such as those in the U.S., in favor of unproven automation schemes.
As my grandfather wisely said, “Believe half of what you see and believe nothing of what you read.” The recent coverage surrounding U.S. ports makes that advice more relevant than ever. The reality is that the longshore workers in the United States are the backbone of our economy. They manage complex operations 24/7, ensuring that the shelves in stores across the country are stocked and businesses remain operational.
Rather than unfairly criticize the system, we should focus on making investments in infrastructure, technology, and workforce training to enhance port operations. The ILA and its members are ready and willing to be part of this progress, particularly when it comes to adopting technology that promotes efficiency without replacing the critical role of a human performing that task. However, we will not stand for reckless mischaracterizations of our industry and our work.
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Spot on as always!! Thank you Dennis A. Daggett!!
Port of Philadelphia
1964
October 1, 1964
Philadelphia Evening Bulletin
ILA LOCAL 1291 STRIKES AT THE PORT OF PHILADELPHIA
Striking members of the International Longshoremen’s Association, Local 1291, picket at Delaware River Pier 98 South, Delaware and Oregon Avenues at the Port of Philadelphia.
ILA members are picketing in front of the Swedish freighter Trojaland, which carries frozen meats. Picket signs read “On Strike, No Contract, No Work!”
⚓ 🇺🇲 💪
Photo Credit:
Dennis Olson
ILA Local 1291
Thank You!
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Port Houston, TX
ILA GIVES BACK TO THE COMMUNITY
ILA LOCAL 1351 CLERKS AND CHECKERS OUT OF PORT HOUSTON, TEXAS RECOGNIZED AS A PLATINUM MEMBER OF THE PASADENA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
The Pasadena Chamber of Commerce recently recognized ILA 1351 as a platinum member for 2024.
“We are proud to grow our partnership with the chamber and continue to be engaged in our local community!,” remarked ILA Local 1351 President Bill Williams, Jr.
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Congratulations!!!
Congratulations from ILA local 1303
Congratulations!
Greetings from ILA local 1414 in Savannah, Georgia
ILA👍🏿
Valparaiso, Chile
ESTIBADORES PORTUARIOS QUINTERO VENTANAS
Incredible photographs of dockworkers coming together for a full display of solidarity that was shared to us by Juan Pablo Pizzaro Fernandez….Juanpi….from the docks of Chile…
Juanpi has always been a huge supporter of the ILA and we thank him for his loyalty!!
13 CommentsComment on Facebook
Greetings from ILA local 1414 in Savannah, Georgia
Hello from ILA local 1303 Gulfport MS
El mejor sindicato portuario en Puerto Ventanas 🇨🇱
Saludos a mi gente y portuarios chilenos. Desde ILA local 333 en Baltimore, Maryland.
West coast sf. Here.
Siempre para adelante....y si es para atrás...ES PA TOMAR IMPULSO
The best union organization Portuarios Quintero Ventanas
🤗✊
✊💪🚢
👊💣⚓️
⚓⚓⚓💪💪✊👊👊🍀🍀
ILA 273 saint john n.b. 🇨🇦 says hello 👋
The Silent Threat: How Cyberattacks on Automated Ports Endanger National Security and the Economy
By Dennis A. Daggett
The maritime industry, once operating quietly behind the scenes, has recently been thrust into the spotlight. Events over the past few years have underscored just how vital this industry is to the lifeblood of our nation. Ports are the gateways for goods, military supplies, food, medical equipment, and energy resources, and they are indispensable to our economic stability and national security. Yet, as automation and semi-automation infiltrate port operations, they introduce a new and significant threat: the vulnerability of these systems to cyberattacks and technological failures.
The 2017 NotPetya cyberattack on APM Terminals was a chilling example of what’s at stake. This ransomware attack crippled terminal operations at 17 facilities worldwide, forcing many to shut down systems and revert to manual operations. The fallout disrupted supply chains, delayed cargo movements, and caused financial losses on a global scale. This wasn’t just a one-off incident but a glimpse into the potential devastation hackers can wreak on interconnected systems.
In recent years, so-called “glitches” in terminal operating systems and gate systems have further highlighted the fragility of automated systems. Whether due to technical failures or malicious actors, these disruptions are a clear warning of the dangers automation poses to the operational resilience of our ports. The stakes could not be higher.
Ports are not just economic hubs; they are critical to national defense. A cyberattack targeting U.S. ports could halt the movement of essential goods, delay military equipment, and undermine the nation’s ability to respond to emergencies or crises. Imagine ships stranded at sea, cargo piling up, and critical supplies trapped in terminals. The result would be catastrophic for both the economy and national security, plunging the country into chaos.
The economic impact of a cyberattack would extend far beyond the immediate shutdown of a port. Businesses that rely on imported goods would face shortages, supply chains would collapse, and consumers would see skyrocketing prices. The nation witnessed the fragility of supply chains during the COVID-19 pandemic; a cyberattack would be far more destructive, leaving industries, workers, and families scrambling to recover.
Hackers and tech terrorists see automation as an opportunity. Automated systems rely on interconnected networks, making them susceptible to infiltration and disruption. The very systems designed to replace human workers introduce vulnerabilities that can be exploited by malicious actors. Ports, once fortified by human oversight and adaptability, are now becoming liabilities as they increasingly depend on technology.
While these risks grow, the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) workforce continues to stand on the front lines, serving as a critical layer of defense against domestic threats at our ports. Longshore workers are trained to remain vigilant, aware of their surroundings, and to follow established protocols if they notice suspicious activity. Their presence and proactive measures are a bulwark against potential security breaches.
Consider for a moment what COVID-19 could have looked like if ILA members had stayed home, gripped by fear from the widespread panic and misinformation. Instead, these essential workers reported to duty, ensuring that goods flowed seamlessly through ports during one of the most challenging times in modern history. Their courage and dedication kept America moving when the rest of the nation was at a standstill.
Adding to the challenge, mainstream media—controlled in part by private equity firms investing in U.S. ports and infrastructure—has been shaping a false narrative to portray the ILA as stalling progress and innovation. This couldn’t be further from the truth. As Sara Shaleen (Masterson) recently pointed out in her rebuttal to the media’s propaganda, the ports operated by ILA members are ranked far higher globally than reported. The ILA’s strength in bargaining has effectively countered the outdated productivity argument, forcing employers to shift the focus to densifying terminals for capacity and throughput.
The employers’ claim that density requires full automation falls apart under scrutiny. In today’s technological age, there is no reason cargo-handling equipment manufacturers cannot produce RMGs (rail-mounted gantries) that allow ILA operators to perform the full movement of cargo. This solution would meet the employers’ goal of greater density while preserving the jobs of the skilled workers who make these ports among the best in the world.
The truth is that automation does not safeguard operations—it exposes them. And as these systems expand, so does the attack surface for hackers and tech terrorists. Ports are the front lines of commerce and security, and a failure to protect them leaves the entire nation vulnerable.
The U.S. must act decisively to address these vulnerabilities. Safeguarding ports against cyber threats is not just a matter of economic stability—it is a matter of national security. Policies must be implemented to ensure that ports remain resilient, and cybersecurity must become a top priority for the maritime industry.
The risks posed by automation and semi-automation far outweigh any purported benefits. Our ports, the backbone of American commerce and defense, must not be left at the mercy of hackers and tech terrorists. This is a fight we cannot afford to lose.
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Please take a moment to watch this amazing video shared to us by Sara Shaleen
www.facebook.com/share/v/1Ku5Yo8gHn/?mibextid=UalRPS
This content isn't available right now
When this happens, it's usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it or it's been deleted.3 CommentsComment on Facebook
Politely I don't want to step on no one's toes but I'm never believed that unions have much power, 40 years ago now it seems 40 years later it's even worse then it was then actually they didn't have automation they still had a longshoremens hook, good luck.
Shut it down!!! World Wide Dock Workers Strike! Strike! Strike!
All U.S. ports no matter what coast need to strike fuck these greedy ass holes. Just like no foreign country should own any of farmland they shouldn’t be allowed to own our docks/ports
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I’m proud to say I had 2 great uncles that was there day. 1 was navy and 1 was a marine, right after that terrible day my grandfather decided to join the navy and fight for this great county during WW2 and he was with them for 20 years and spent most of his time as a submarine mechanic in key west after the war until he retired with them, he also got the honor to watch the mushroom clouds form over Japan when the bombs were dropped. Sadly they are no longer with us anymore to share their amazing stories they are in heaven now.
I've been there
A MESSAGE FROM ILA INTERNATIONAL EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT DENNIS A. DAGGETT
Rebuttal to Misguided Claims About the ILA and Automation appearing in The NY Post on December 4, 2024 by John Stossel
I initially hesitated to respond to this “clueless” commentary. However, the author’s glaring lack of knowledge about the maritime industry and his misrepresentation of what the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) is fighting for demands correction. His commentary not only fails to grasp the complexities of our work but also perpetuates harmful misconceptions about unions, innovation, and the realities of automation.
1. Union Leaders and Innovation
Claim: “Dockworker unions stop innovation.”
Response: The ILA has always embraced innovation. Beyond the historic adaptation to containerization, the ILA has supported the implementation of state-of-the-art gate and terminal operating systems, as well as cutting-edge container handling equipment. These advancements have allowed ILA members to handle record volumes over the past four years, demonstrating our commitment to progress and efficiency.
The industry’s challenges do not stem from unions “stopping innovation.” The real issue is capacity. Ports, particularly those in densely populated regions like New York/New Jersey, need more land to expand capacity and improve throughput. Instead of focusing on automation that eliminates jobs, efforts should be directed toward infrastructure investment and sustainable growth strategies.
2. Safety and Dangerous Jobs
Claim: “Automation protects human workers by reducing dangerous jobs.”
Response: This argument is both misleading and uninformed. The majority of serious accidents or fatalities in our industry occur on the break bulk or general cargo side of the business—not in containerized operations where automation is being proposed. Importantly, employers are not seeking automation in those high-risk sectors, which invalidates the argument that automation is needed for safety.
The ILA has led the charge for safer working conditions through training, modern equipment, and strict safety protocols. Suggesting that automation is the only path to safer ports is a gross oversimplification and shows a lack of understanding of the maritime industry.
3. The Myth of “Creative Destruction”
Claim: “Automation will destroy some jobs but create better ones, just like in other industries.”
Response: The author fails to acknowledge that automation in the maritime industry does not follow the same pattern as in other sectors. In industries like manufacturing, automation has created new jobs for technicians and mechanics. However, the ILA already employs these skilled workers, meaning automation in our case results in a net loss of jobs without generating new opportunities. The maritime industry is unique, and blanket comparisons to other sectors ignore this reality.
Furthermore, the idea that displaced workers will seamlessly transition to “better jobs” is naïve. Entire communities rely on the jobs provided by ports, and the economic ripple effects of job losses would devastate families and local businesses.
4. Global Port Rankings and Efficiency
Claim: “American ports are falling behind globally due to unions opposing automation.”
Response: The claim that unions are the reason American ports lag in global rankings is disingenuous. Ports in Asia and the Middle East may rank higher in throughput metrics, but they often operate under labor conditions that would be unacceptable in the United States. These rankings prioritize speed over fairness, safety, and sustainability.
The ILA’s commitment to record-breaking volumes in recent years proves that we are not stopping progress. However, the real bottleneck in the industry is a lack of land and capacity, not a lack of automation. If Port Authorities like New York/New Jersey focused on providing space for expansion rather than engaging in what amounts to legal extortion—forcing terminal operators to profit-share in lease agreements—ports could operate more efficiently. Instead of supporting terminal growth, Port Authorities are creating additional financial burdens that hinder long-term development.
5. Economic Impact of Strikes
Claim: “Strikes by the ILA harm other industries and Americans.”
Response: Strikes are a last resort for the ILA, not a reckless decision. The ILA has repeatedly sought early negotiations to avoid disruptions, but employers have often refused to engage in meaningful discussions. Any short-term impact of a strike is dwarfed by the long-term consequences of allowing automation to hollow out the industry. Protecting workers’ jobs today ensures the economic stability of countless families and communities tomorrow.
6. The Role of Unions in a Fair Economy
Claim: “Unions like the ILA are not ‘pro-worker.’”
Response: Nothing could be further from the truth. The ILA’s fight against automation is not about stopping progress; it is about ensuring that progress benefits everyone, not just corporate bottom lines. The union’s efforts have historically led to safer working conditions, fair wages, and a thriving middle class. By pushing back against automation that eliminates jobs without adding value, the ILA is safeguarding the future of its members and their communities.
Conclusion
The author’s commentary is riddled with inaccuracies and reflects a fundamental misunderstanding of the maritime industry. The ILA has consistently embraced innovation that enhances productivity and safety, as evidenced by our adoption of modern technologies and record-breaking volumes in recent years. The industry’s challenges lie in a lack of capacity and fair business practices—not in unions.
Moreover, automation in our sector will not create new jobs. Unlike in other industries, the ILA already employs skilled mechanics and technicians. Automation here means job losses, plain and simple. Suggesting otherwise is either ignorant or dishonest.
The ILA is not fighting against progress; we are fighting for a future where progress includes workers, their families, and the communities that depend on the maritime industry. If the author had taken the time to understand our industry, he might have recognized that this fight is about fairness, sustainability, and the preservation of a strong middle class. Instead, he has opted for baseless attacks that do nothing to advance the conversation or address the real challenges facing American ports.
We welcome a more informed dialogue, but this article falls far short of contributing anything meaningful to that discussion.
21 CommentsComment on Facebook
We should of stayed on strike . Now we're back ti ground zero.
They reneged on automation so time for us to start all over on our wage! Boss asked for $60 and said we would take $30 not to go on strike, well we went on strike and will again it appears, so back to $60! These greedy foreign own companies not wanting to pay the American workers that have got them where they are today! There have been 14 years in my 35 year career we went without a raise! Time to get us caught up with inflation and the cost of living! Save these American jobs and GOD BLESS THE ILA!
That is an extremely insightful evaluation. I hope that the membership understands the complex issues that you and President Daggett are dealing with. Good thing that you guys are at the helm!
Well said Dennis keep the truth out there great leadership 👍💪
Well said!!! Leadership second to none!!!!
I.L.A. ALL THE WAY ✊✊✊. Great rebuttal
Leadership second to none!God Bless the ILA!!!Thank you D!
Well explained and written.
International Vice President Dennis A. Daggett well put it’s always the media  that Miss leaves the public. That’s why we have a strong leader like you to set the record straight.
Need to work on the MILA crap. Aetna stinks! Need the retirement bumped up but that’s a local issue. Lots of stuff needs to change.
Nice work Local 920 has your back💪🏻
Thank you Dennis now let’s KFG
ILA FAMILY WHAT WE NEED TO DO IS STAND FIRM AND NOT EXCEPT ANYTHING LESS THAN WE DESERVE BECAUSE WE HAVE EARNED THAT AND MUCH MORE USMX MARITIME ALLIANCE ARE A BUNCH OF CORPORATE GREEDY SCUM
I read this and am absolutely STUNNED that any 3rd educated editor would print it. "The best ports,” says Palagashvili, “are Asian and Middle Eastern ports. They allow for innovation and technological advancements.” We can argue that but then it goes on to say..... "That’s capitalism’s “creative destruction.”"!!! Capitalism?? China and the Mid East CAPITALISTS!?!?! THIS IS YOUR EXAMPLE !!These are Autocratic Nations that treat their people as SLAVES. Not only that but your examples are our Enemies on the war of Trade. They want us to automate. WHY? Automation is a weapon. If our Ports are automated we are totally vulnerable for Foreign attacks. If a company like Google can get hacked a Port that is dependent on Billions of dollars in economic value sure as hell can be paralyzed in a second.
ILA 💪🇺🇸
Well said!
Well said !!!!!
 Great rebuttal Dennis!🤙⚓️
Union
Once again you have proven and demonstrate your ability to guide people through the process of building a strong work force to take on any and all challenges. Media today is bought and paid for by the elite corporations to only tell what they want people to believe
A photo that needs no explanation…..the ILA and dockworkers around the world fighting for their jobs against robots and automation!
Photo Credit:
Jordi Aragunde
IDC Labor Coordinator
Thank You!
7 CommentsComment on Facebook
Great representation Jordi!
ILA!!!! it will be the same battle for the rest of our lives!
My money is on the Longshoreman!!
Nelson Lombardo Lopez. LOCAL 1804-1 port Liberty Bayonne Nj
Great picture
I heard John Connor just joined a lashing gang
‼️‼️
ILA LOCAL 24
PORT HOUSTON, TX
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🥳🥳🥳 Houston! Showing up
Port of Houston’s best!👍🏿
ILA FAMILY STAND STRONG AND UNITED STRONG IN SOLIDARITY AND STRONG IN UNITY WE SHALL NOT EXCEPT LESS THAN WE ARE WORTH EVER ❤️
Greetings from ILA local 1414 in Savannah, Georgia
My favorite local.👍🏿
I ❤️ it!
🤘🏾Hard hittas