Transport Workers Union of America, Local 2001 is sometimes better known as TWU Local 2001. We are a Labor Organization (LABOR UNION) that exists to represent the interests of Skilled Labor Workers in the Railroad Industry. Our Brothers and Sisters work for Rail Transportation Carriers in four states and for seven different common carriers. We stand tall and we stand proud as we move people and products safely.
The brothers and sisters who comprise the membership of TWU Local 2001 work for MetroNorth, Amtrak, New Jersey Transit, Conrail, CSX, Norfolk Southern, and the Port Authority Trans Hudson Corporation (PATH). We work as Coach Cleaners, Car Appearance Maintainers, Carmen Helpers, Carmen, Car Repairmen, Car Inspectors, Service Workers, Trackmen, Pump Maintainers, Crane Operators, Welders, Flagmen, Carpenters, and other skilled crafts. We serve on wreck crews, perform safety inspections, clean and service both rolling stock and locomotives on both passenger and freight railroads. We keep America moving safely.
Before the railroads were unionized, the railroaders on the various carriers were among the lowest paid of the skilled industrial workers in the United States. They had no health and welfare benefits, and were under a compulsory six day workweek. No Vacation plan existed, and the relative level of safety that existed made railroading among the most dangerous of all occupations in the United States. Railroaders were the backbone of the American Transportation System, yet very few could afford to own their own home.
The unionization of the railroads skilled craftsmen and labor forces changed how railroaders were compensated, the level of benefits they received, their relative level of safety while performing their jobs, the hours they worked, and their ability to live the American Dream of owning their own family home. But a labor union is more than just an agent for collective bargaining; it is a fraternal organization that fosters mutual respect for one another based on the common values that we share. Our Union is committed to provide communication to our members regarding issues that are important to them and their families.
We are proud of our history, and we are committed to the same principles upon which our union was founded. We continue to work to achieve better wages, benefits, and working conditions so that our brothers and sisters can provide for their families health, education, and welfare. We believe that through collective unity there is invincible strength. We believe that together we all can live the American Dream. Together, we believe that tomorrow will be better than yesterday or today. We believe that our best days are yet to come!