by Lynn Williams (Author)
Lynn Williams remains one of the most influential North American union leaders of the twentieth century. His two terms as president of the United Steelworkers of America, from 1983 until 1994, capped off a career in labor relations spanning nearly five decades. Among his many notable achievements, Williams developed new bargaining techniques to face challenges from antiunion politicians such as Ronald Reagan and Margaret Thatcher. He also played a major role in the structural readjustment of the North American steel industry during its most turbulent period, the 1980s and 1990s.
In his memoir, Williams vividly recounts his life in labor, with all its triumphs, challenges, hopes, and dreams. While telling his own story, Williams also traces the rise and transformation of the labor movement from World War II to today. Providing an insider's perspective on union developments and issues, One Day Longer is a profound reflection of Williams's impressive career.
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 340
Publisher: ILR Press
Published: Aug 2011
ISBN 10: 0801450675
ISBN 13: 9780801450679
Lynn Williams's ability to bring about change is marvelous, and his determination inspirational. His great success as president of the United Steelworkers of America can be attributed to his drive, his sincerity, his intellect, and especially his ability to relate to people. It didn't matter whether you were a captain of industry, a brand-new union member, or President of the United States: Lynn could relate to everyone and build support for their ideas. --Leo Gerard, international president, United Steelworkers
Those of us privileged to work with and develop lasting friendships with Lynn Williams have long awaited this memoir. His vision, values, wisdom, and dedication to giving voice to working people continue to inspire us to keep fighting for what is right and just in society. I intend to give this book to as many young people as I can in hope of inspiring them to follow in Lynn's footsteps. Nothing would be a more fitting legacy of this remarkable leader. --Thomas A. Kochan, George M. Bunker Professor, MIT Sloan School of Management
Lynn Williams's memoir, One Day Longer, is a story not only about himself but about the contemporary labor movement. It is about struggling against great odds to improve the lot of millions of working people who are otherwise left behind the march of progress. Lynn Williams has devoted his life to uplifting others through building a social, political, and economic fabric that was aimed at treating people with dignity. Labor advocates today can learn much from the lessons of compassion and tenacity embodied in his life story. --Marick Masters, Director, Labor@Wayne, Wayne State University