I last saw Pete in February. He had traveled to a meeting in Davis, and other than using a cane seemed his usual boisterous and knowledgeable self.
Over the last 10 years, Pete's advice and encouragement were invaluable in my work as a leader of a sometimes troubled union Local. His advice to me and to several of the others in leadership were instrumental in our turning things around 4 years ago.
Over the years I got to listen to Pete's stories about his early days in organized labor. His parents were members of the IWW Industrial Workers of the World union also known in the 1920's and 30's as Wobblies.
Pete was one of those started my own union as well as serving on the initial organizing committees of a couple of more. He wads an unabashed socialist, dating form his childhood in a Communist commune in New York State. Yet he understood decisions made by management and the profit motives of large organizations as few did. Over the years, when I was asked to represent union members who had gotten themselves in trouble at work, Pete was the first person I emailed or called.
4 years ago, I asked Pete and Bob Dawson another founder of our union,, also deceased this year, if they would be interviewed as part of a living history. In 2008, both were interviewed by the Labor Institute in Berkeley. I hope we can see a compendium of their thoughts.
Rest in peace, Pete. You've worked long and hard. In my mind's eye, I see you figuring out how to "straighten out" the angels in heaven!
No comments:
Post a Comment