CHARLESTON, SC (JUNE 26, 2025) The hundreds of global dockworkers and members of the International Dockworkers Council (IDC) gathered in Charleston, South Carolina to celebrate their 25th Anniversary received a very special greeting and congratulations from the Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV. The Pontif’s message made clear his strong support for workers and unions.
“I am pleased to know that, as unions, you have taken on the challenge of working together ‘to prevent job losses caused by automation’, while at the same time ensuring equal and fair conditions, as well as job security for all workers, without discrimination,” Pope Leo wrote to the IDC. “These efforts are important for such a challenging profession as yours.”
IDC General Coordinator Dennis A. Daggett and IDC International Coordinator Jordi Aragunde last year led a delegation of IDC representatives for an audience with Pope Francis at the Vatican. The current Pontif referenced the bond between the Vatican and Dockworkers in his message to the IDC.
“I encourage you, as did Pope Francis, to continue the initiative of teaching young people in the peripheries ‘the value of work,’ and to let yourselves be inspired by the words of Jesus and the teachings of the Church.”
“The IDC is thrilled and encouraged that our new Holy Father, Pope Leo, will continue this friendship and solidarity with dockworkers around the world as did his predecessor, Pope Francis, who we me with last year,” said IDC General Coordinator Dennis Daggett.
