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JOHN J. FLYNN President International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers .............................

Those unfamiliar with unions will often ask, “What good are unions?” There are several quick responses to this question – unions protect workers, give them a voice at work, and provide better wages, benefits, and safer working conditions. On a broader level, unions have been the force behind every existing major law and program designed to help working men and women: the eight hour work day, Social Security, OSHA, and Medicare to name a few. This issue of the Journal, however, touches on an aspect of what’s good about unions that is often downplayed and not as easily measured in dollars and cents. The unity, support, and caring that one gains from being a member of a labor union are embodied in our cover story and give a whole new meaning to the phrase union brothers.

Unions have been the force behind every existing major law and program designed to help working men and women.

Our cover story is also a timely reminder of the importance of our union benefits. Without their union health and welfare benefits, Deeter’s and Dennis’ story might not have had such a positive outcome. Sadly, however, today more than 44 million Americans, one-fourth of them children, have no health insurance. It is estimated that every 60 seconds another five Americans lose their health coverage. In a country as rich as this, it is shameful to have people literally dying because they cannot afford proper medical care. With the 2004 presidential election rapidly approaching it’s important to understand where the candidates stand on critical issues such as health care. It’s important to know if a candidate will help preserve your right to be a member of a union and enjoy union benefits, has the will to take on the powerful insurance and pharmaceutical industries to control escalating health care costs, and has a plan to extend health coverage to all Americans. This and upcoming issues of the Journal will provide you with information on where the presidential candidates stand on health care and other issues of importance to you and your families’ well-being.

I am also pleased to report on another act of solidarity by union members and leaders. After many months of reviewing data, hearing from industry leaders, and talking to members and officers, the Executive Council unanimously accepted the final report and recommendations of the Millennium Morning Project at its spring meeting. The report, which lays out a detailed strategic plan for our Union, is an exciting and positive step forward. It reflects a dedicated effort on the part of the Council to identify all of the challenges and opportunities faced by our members and industry and to develop workable solutions and actions. In the months ahead you’ll hear more about the Council’s and your own Local’s progress in implementing the recommendations – all of which will lead to more jobs for our members, a stronger unionized masonry industry, and a stronger BAC.

If you have ideas for stories or issues of concern, let us know by emailing us at askbac@bacweb.org or writing to:

International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers
Attention: Communications Department
1776 Eye Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20006