ILA launched a major strike at ports across the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, but cruise operations and military activities at affected ports continued.
Thousands of dockworkers across ports along the US East and Gulf coasts initiated a strike just after midnight on Tuesday, advocating for higher wages and improved job security. This work stoppage marks the first such action at East and Gulf Coast ports since 1977.
The strike follows a prolonged deadlock in negotiations between the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX), which represents terminal operators and ocean carriers. The contract between the ports and approximately 45,000 ILA members expired at midnight, prompting the workers to take action.
The ILA is calling for significant wage increases and a complete ban on the use of automated equipment, including cranes, gates, and container-moving trucks, in the loading and unloading of freight.
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The strike is expected to involve around 25,000 workers and impact 14 major ports along the East and Gulf coasts, listed from north to south as follows:
In total, the strike is affecting 36 ports. However, it is important to note that cruise operations and military activities at these ports will continue as normal during the work stoppage.
