Hoffa, Keegel Address Delegates to BMWED Convention

(LAS VEGAS) – Teamsters General President Jim Hoffa and Secretary-Treasurer Tom Keegel addressed the opening of the Second Regular Convention of the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division (BMWED) today, pledging to continue the fight for improved safety at work, more jobs constructing railroads and new members. View photos from this event.

“When I look at you, I see the American labor movement,” Hoffa said. “When we merged our two unions in 2004, we truly became the largest transportation union in America. With members on the highways, on the rails and in the air, I thank you for helping us achieve this goal. Together, we are stronger.”

Hoffa said the Teamsters Union would use its influence in Washington to continue pushing for new funding for rail projects, such as new rail beds and high speed rail lines, to create more union jobs. More than 500 delegates from across the country are attending this week’s convention, which runs through Thursday.

“I believe there is a great bond between our unions because you built the transportation system in this country through sweat and blood, and in the beginning, you had major struggles,” Keegel said. “We also fought battles and shed blood. Now together, we are making progress.”

BMWED President Fred Simpson also addressed the delegate members in a keynote address, saying the division’s focus is on building strength for the future.

“Both Jim Hoffa and Tom Keegel are truly leading the fight for the middle class. They are a beacon of light for workers everywhere,” Simpson said. “The focus of my administration is transitioning our brotherhood for the future. I need your input and your support to transform this union.

The BMWED is a division of the Teamsters Rail Conference and represents more than 32,000 hardworking men and women who build, maintain and construct rail lines, bridges and related infrastructure throughout the United States.

Read more about the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division Convention.