History of TWU and Local 299

The Transport Workers Union of America was founded in 1934 as an industrial union dedicated to the promise that an organization built on trust and equality for all workers cannot be denied. We are a trade union representing workers in all crafts in Mass Transit, Airlines, Railroads, Utilities, Universities, Municipalities, School Districts and Service and Allied Industries. Our union operates on three levels—the International Union, Industrial Divisions and Local Affiliates. All TWU members belong to Locals formed on the basis of interest and geographic locations. The members elect their own Local Officers who handle most of their problems. The International Union coordinates the activities of the Divisions and the Locals and assists us in our endeavors to obtain workplace fairness, organize the workers, and member education.

The workers of Cherokee County Board of Education have heard of the gains made in neighboring counties in Georgia and contacted the TWU. Transit Director Hubert Snead, along with Organizer Steve Roberts and International Representative Susan Resch began to meet with the workers and advise them of their rights under Federal Labor Laws. Finally, Local 299 received its charter in October of 2004 after a year long struggle fighting the intimidation of the workers by management who sat in a private parking lot taking notes of who was coming to the Union Meeting. This type of action violates the employees First Amendment Rights and the workers Civil Rights of Freedom of Assembly and Association. While Georgia public employees may not have a right to bargain, we have the right to join and participate in a Union. The Union was successful in having the Asst. Superintendent instruct their management employees that it is not the policy, position, or intent of the School District to interfere with the legal right of an employee to attend union meetings and stated that they will not treat in a negative manner anyone who chooses to participate in a legally protected union activity. The memo specifically directed Transportation supervisory staff to refrain from any actions against union participants and to treat all in a fair and professional manner.

Our Local continues to grow. We are committed to internal organizing and education. We are seeking ways to improve standards in the workplace that are fair and equitable for all the workers and to provide the best possible service while we transport America’s most precious cargo, the children of Cherokee County.