Teamsters, labor rally in support of Pasco’s Irving Brown

Community rally Monday at Teamsters 839 to support city council member

The following is from Teamsters Local 839:

PASCO, Wash. (Aug. 28, 2023) — Teamsters Local Union No. 839 and Teamsters Joint Council #28, along with Organized Labor (UA 598 and other locals) and the greater Tri-Cities community, are rallying together in an inspiring display of unity and support for Pasco City Council member, Irving Brown, who is currently running for re-election in the upcoming Pasco City Council Position 3 election.

Brown’s campaign has been marred by racist remarks on his yard signs, left by individuals who seek to spread hatred and division. However, the community’s response has been one of resilience, determination, and a firm commitment to stand against racism in all its forms.

Irving Brown Sr., a dedicated public servant, has consistently shown his commitment to making the City of Pasco a better place to live for all its residents. Despite the reprehensible attempts to undermine his campaign with racial slurs and intimidation, Brown remains unwavering in his dedication to the betterment of the community of Pasco.

In a show of solidarity, Teamsters Local Union No. 839 and Teamsters Joint Council #28, along with other organized labor groups, drawing from their storied history of civil rights activism, are voicing their unequivocal support for Councilmember Irving Brown. The International Brotherhood of Teamsters was founded on the principle of winning justice for all workers, and that cannot happen unless we dismantle racism and racist systems that continue to harm communities of color.

It’s not just about politics; it’s about upholding the values of justice, equality, and unity. The community, along with organized labor, is taking a stand against racism, discrimination, and injustice.

This rallying call for justice is not confined to any moment but extends beyond crises. It is about dismantling systems of racism and upholding justice every day. Together, the community and its supporters are determined to challenge the status quo and work towards a better future.

As a community member and Secretary-Treasurer of Teamsters Local Union No. 839, Russell Shjerven stated, “We all have a choice about how we want to move forward, whether we are going to be silent or speak out to change things for the betterment of humanity. We choose the betterment of humanity.”

Organized labor remains committed to upholding the principles of racial justice and equality and will continue to work alongside community leaders, organizations, and activists to address systemic inequalities and promote positive change.

In times like these, it is crucial to come together as a community and reaffirm our commitment to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all residents. As the election approaches, the community is sending a powerful message that hatred and bigotry will not prevail; instead, we all stand united in its pursuit of a brighter, more equitable future for all.

TAKE A STAND — There will be a rally Monday at Teamsters Local Union No. 839 – 1103 W. Sylvester St. in Pasco at 5:30 pm — to show labor’s and the community’s support for Irving Brown, Sr., and against these racist attacks.