By Casey Seaman, Esquire
The labor movement is not just something I advocate for, it is the foundation of who I am. Unions are in my blood. My father is a proud Teamster and has served the role of Union Steward for most of my life. My mother, who is now retired, was a proud member of the CWA. In fact, one of my earliest memories is her pushing me in a stroller on her strike line. My extended family is unsurprisingly also made of unionized workers including teamsters, firefighters, and railroad conductors.
My interest in labor law started in elementary school, usually in the hours before dance class when my dad and I would read over his contracts and grievances together. I watched him in admiration as he fought for his fellow workers. I am sure he didn’t know it then, but he has been the inspiration behind my career ever since.
In high school, my mother was diagnosed with cancer. It was a difficult time for our family. At that time of my life, I did not know whether higher education would be a possibility for me. Thanks to the Teamsters, the trajectory of my life changed. Later that year, my dad was able to take a driving job with the University of Pittsburgh. Further, I was awarded the James R. Hoffa Memorial Scholarship Award. Without these opportunities, I would never have been able to live my dream of going to college. I certainly wouldn’t be a lawyer today without the support of the Unions in my life. I promised myself then that I would spend my career fighting for Unions.
I am forever grateful for the labor movement. I credit Unions for allowing me the opportunity to dream and the chance to succeed. This Labor Day, I am reminded, as always, to thank a Union, because without them, I wouldn’t be living my dreams today.
