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To the editor:
It is sad that former District Council 37 union leader Lillian Roberts passed away last week at the age of 98. But she lived a long and productive life.
I knew her since 1980 when she helped CETA Workers (a federal government jobs program began by President Nixon) like me keep our city jobs. She had Victor Gotbaum establish organizing committee CETA at DC 37 to help lead the fight.
After the settlement whereby the city would end the program but keep most of the workers, she had DC 37 assist those laid off to find unemployment benefits and other jobs. That was Lillian. She always was carrying about members.
She organized New York’s public hospitals workers into DC 37. It meant I could join the union when I started employment at Bellevue Hospital.
She also was the main force in establishing the union’s benefits and education funds that so many union members take advantage of today. It is unlike what most unions do.
Lillian was a great leader and mentor to so many in our union, especially women leaders. That would include Local 1549 under President Eddie Rodriguez who hired her.
She worked on the Local 1549 staff when she returned to the union and then became DC 37 executive director. She stayed in that position as a Local 1549 member.
She helped those of us trying to build the Childcare Center at Bellevue Hospital. The center is having its anniversary celebration this coming October, and she was invited to speak.
She always fought to make sure DC 37 kept the hard-earned benefits she played a role in gaining. When the proposal by the teachers’ union to use the Municipal Labor Committee benefit funds for their pay raises in 2012-13, she opposed it.
She had all of us who were voting members attend the meeting to successfully vote it down. Those funds are the lifeblood for members’ health and wellbeing. It is not for other uses.
She was tough and compassionate. She always had to fight hard to attain her positions and overcame the obstacles. She is one of the truly great union leaders and especially women union leaders in our country’s history.
Remembering our common battles fought and discussions together. RIP Lillian. And condolences to her son Ivan and her entire family.
Ralph Palladino
The author is a former second vice president of Local 1549, the clerical-administrative union.
2 comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here
Valete
As the headline suggests, Lillian Roberts was indeed a remarkable union leader. She was steadfast in her convictions and compassionate when necessary; she will be deeply missed. My condolences to her family.
Thursday, July 16 Report this
wpeakes
Rest in peace, Ms. Roberts. Many will always remember your steadfast advocacy for workers. I offer prayers and condolences to your family and friends.
Wednesday, July 22 Report this