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We all have work to do ...
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By José Leonard National Secretary-Treasurer Over the past several weeks, I have received many phone calls and e-mails from AMO members who supported me in my bid for election as national secretary-treasurer. Some of those supporters have also let me know that they think I should be national president of the union today. What has become very clear to me is that, while many are pleased, not all members are satisfied with the progression of events. I previously stated at the January 8 membership meeting that the position I have in the administration, the position that I ran for, is the one that I want. I intend to serve in that capacity as I have in my career at sea as a captain and vessel officer: to the best of my ability for the benefit of the people I represent. I also stated at that same meeting that although I was not present, I "respect the vote of the membership" in adopting Resolution 3 at the December meeting in Dania Beach. Upon my arrival in Dania Beach to assume this new role, I was prepared for some adversity. Despite published statements by the former president that I would be welcomed cordially and with full cooperation, I was immediately assigned a back office across the street from headquarters and had to deal with other financial constraints which most likely were intended to hasten my return to sea. It was painfully obvious that a dark cloud was hovering over me. During that first week, Tom Bethel and Dan Smith arrived in Dania and, upon learning of my situation, acted immediately to begin to resolve it. With these actions and their open support of me as an elected union member, my treatment changed dramatically. Today, I am onboard as national secretary-treasurer and am learning on the go. Other officials and the administration have been cordial and open. AMO employees have been very respectful and cooperative. The accounting staff is open, energetic and driven by job performance. I have received numerous phone calls, e-mails and, during ship visits, have discovered that there is widespread relief about the conclusion of the recent situation of our former national president and national secretary-treasurer. There is also widespread concern that the AMO is moving ahead now in a positive fashion. Through observation, my sense is that this administration is now proceeding in the right direction. The AMO is still in a transitional phase, and members are exercising their constitutional rights as they are entitled to. The industry is watching closely to see how we resolve our differences. We all have work to do, both at sea and ashore, and I respectfully suggest that we get on with it and move forward. --February 2007 |
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