As the Port of Miami sees dockworkers rally for a new labor contract, the focus has turned to the earnings of union leader Harold Daggett. On Tuesday, striking workers gathered near the port entrance to make their demands heard, calling for fairer wages and improved working conditions.
“Things were rough back then [in 1977]. We went on strike for $0.80. The companies only made like 5 to $10 million, but since COVID and before COVID ’til now, they’re making billions and billions of dollars. It’s a whole different story, but they don’t want to share it,” a protestor stated passionately.
“They’d rather see a fully automated terminal right here on the East Coast so they can make more money. They’re money-crazy,” protestor added.
The current strike highlights issues that extend beyond wages, as Daggett emphasizes the union’s fight for jurisdiction and health benefits, as well as fair wages for the dockworkers.
Daggett’s Leadership and Salary Draw Attention
Daggett, who previously served as president of the ILA Local 1804-1 for 14 years, has been named president emeritus and continues to draw a salary from the organization. His position and earnings have become a topic of interest as the strike sheds light on the broader financial dynamics at play.
For workers, this strike isn’t just about immediate pay—it’s about addressing long-standing issues and ensuring that their voices are heard in a rapidly changing industry.
