August 23, 2007: Freight wages have fallen drastically, measured against the cost of living, in the past ten years.
In April 1997, a freight Teamster (Central Supplement) made $18.11 per hour.
If that wage rate had just kept up with inflation, today it would be $23.55. The wage today is only $22.11. That’s a $1.44 per hour wage cut in your standard of living.
It’s time for some catch up.
Teamsters, Amazon delivery drivers, and labor allies picketed today on the steps of New York City Hall to support the Delivery Protection Act. City Councilmember Tiffany Cabán announced the bill now has supermajority support in the City Council.
The IBT has launched the Teamster History Project, which includes 27 unedited interviews with Teamsters who made it happen. It covers the years 1975-1999. Those interviewed include several TDU leaders, participants in the Carey administration, James Hoffa, along with two Hoffa lieutenants who were expelled from the union for corruption and self-dealing.
