The New Jersey Education Association (NJEA) has expressed its support for the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET) amid their ongoing strike against New Jersey Transit. NJEA's leadership, including President Sean Spiller, Vice President Steve Beatty, and Secretary-Treasurer Petal Roberson, released a statement emphasizing solidarity with the BLET members.
"We stand in solidarity with the members of Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET) in their fight for economic justice," the statement read. The union highlights that BLET members have been striving for a fair contract after enduring five years without a pay raise. Despite numerous attempts to negotiate terms that reflect their contributions to passenger safety and provide competitive wages, they have resorted to striking.
"The labor of working people cannot be taken for granted. It must be respected and rewarded," NJEA stated. They urged New Jersey Transit to re-engage in negotiations promptly and offer a fair contract that acknowledges the efforts of BLET members. Additionally, NJEA called on New Jersey residents to support BLET until they secure what they consider deserved respect and economic justice.
