05/09/2026
Local 24 Belongs to ALL of US!!
Over the last few days,
I have seen discussions online regarding comments made at our recent union meeting.
As President of ILA Local 24, I want to make one thing absolutely clear:
This union belongs to every member who earns their living on the waterfront and carries an ILA card with pride.
Black, Hispanic, white, male, female, young, old, third-generation longshoreman or brand-new member — we are strongest when we stand together as union brothers and sisters.
Division weakens us. Unity protects us.
I did not run for president to represent one race, one group, or one clique.
I ran to represent Local 24 as a whole.
Since being elected, I have worked hard to bring members and families together through events, outreach, improvements to our hall, and efforts that reflect the diversity and strength of this local
I will continue doing exactly that.
At the same time, let me be equally clear: harassment, threats, intimidation, or disrespect toward fellow members have no place in our union, regardless of who is involved.
Our disagreements must be handled with professionalism and respect, not hostility.
Every member deserves to be treated fairly.
No one gets special treatment because of friendships, race, background, or position.
The rules apply equally to everyone.
The waterfront has always been built by hardworking men and women from different backgrounds standing together through difficult times.
That brotherhood and sisterhood is bigger than politics, rumors, or social media arguments.
I ask all members to move forward with respect for one another and pride in this union.
We have too much important work ahead of us to allow division to pull us apart.
In solidarity,
Gabriel Garza
President, ILA Local 24
