BY CRAIG HONTS

LOS ANGELES - About $100,000 is needed to carry out structural repairs to the Pathfinder building. Supporters of Pathfinder who are members of unions are some of the main sellers of revolutionary books, getting them into their co- workers' hands. So it's only natural that industrial workers should contribute financially in the biggest way possible.

Members of industrial unions have made important contributions toward Pathfinder's long-term capital needs over the years. These donations come from signing bonuses during passage of union contracts, lump-sum wage increases, profit- sharing plans, and settlements from accidents on the job.

An example of how some of these lump sum payments have come about is seen in the recent railroad contract voted down by members of the United Transportation Union (UTU). After the unionists rejected the contract, it was sent to binding arbitration. A government-appointed arbitration board imposed the same contract that had been turned down by the workers. Along with some serious concessions, the contract provides for several lump-sum payments amounting the 3 percent of all earnings from 1995 and 1 percent of 1994 earnings. Supporters of Pathfinder are now discussing how to add this money to the fund toward the repair of the building's wall.

In 1996, contributions from such sources so far have totaled $16,127. Twenty-three workers have contributed to the effort from the United Steelworkers of America; United Auto Workers (UAW); Oil, Chemical and Atomic Workers; International Association of Machinists; and UTU. Of these, 13 are members of the UAW, who collectively kicked in $7,717.

Craig Honts is a member of UTU Local 1674.  
 
 
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