With sadness and deep love, we remember and honor Fred Pecker who passed away yesterday, December 20, 2018. Fred was a lifelong warrior for justice and a loving, gentle soul.
Fred was a leader in ILWU Local 6 Warehousing for over 27 years and was a steadfast partner in many campaigns that EBASE was a part of, including the Revive Oakland coalition, the Campaign for Sustainable Recycling and the Woodfin Workers fight.
Over the years, Fred walked thousands of picket lines and rallies, with teachers, nurses, security officers, hotel workers and for Black Lives Matter, immigrant rights and climate justice, among others.
Fred showed us that solidarity is a verb and a way of being. He lived into his commitments in so many ways: building power among low wage workers; fighting alongside formerly incarcerated people for fair chance hiring; fasting with immigrants in the face of I-9 raids; and lifting the leadership of women of color in the recycling/waste management industry. He was dedicated to organizing, a believer in the power of the people and willing to speak truth to power.
Fred moved with humility and humor. He was always ready with a song or food or a joke he wanted to share with you. Fred brought a unique warmth and maintained his humanity in the face of fierce challenges. We miss him dearly.
Our hearts go out to his wife Susan Solomon, an incredible warrior for justice in her own right, and to their children and extended community.
Rest in Power, Fred.