More than 150 union members, their families and their friends packed Pier 11 in the shadow of the Aloha Tower in downtown Honolulu for the Hawaii Ports Maritime Council’s fourth annual “Ohana Pa’ina” (family barbecue) on June 2.
Joining in the festivities were the state’s two U.S. Senators – Brian Schatz and Mazie Hirono, both strong Jones Act supporters – as well as many other state and local elected officials and local maritime industry representatives.
“We had a wonderful time showing the solidarity of the Labor Movement with the U.S.-flag maritime industry,” noted PMC President Randy Swindell. “This brings everyone together to show we are united in support of the Jones Act and other important programs that directly affect Hawaii’s workers”
“The ‘Ohana Pa’ina’ is our way of saying “mahalo’ or thanks to all of our members and friends,” added PMC Secretary-Treasurer Hazel Galbiso. “We want the community to know we appreciate everything they do when they stand with us.”
Besides an assortment of speakers, including MTD Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan, guests were treated to live music and dancing to go along with many local delicacies at the buffet table.