Joe Nantista, Assistant General Chairman of the Unified System Division of the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes (BMWED), a division of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, and Paul Slocomb, an attorney and Partner with Blunt Slocomb, Ltd., joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the tragic death by suicide of Philip Morgan, a BMWED member and Union Pacific employee, the upcoming Iowa Supreme Court hearing and a rally to support the case.
Nantista, who spent 13 years with Union Pacific, discussed the culture of harassment and intimidation within the railroad industry. He emphasized that such practices are commonplace across all Class 1 railroads, driven by pressure from CEOs and shareholders to maximize profits at the expense of worker well-being. Nantista recounted instances of threats, physical violence and financial manipulation, highlighting the urgent need for public awareness and corporate accountability.
Slocomb detailed the legal aspects of Philip Morgan's case, explaining how it challenges existing laws regarding emotional injuries and suicide in the workplace. The case aims to update legal standards to reflect a modern understanding of mental health and workplace harassment. Slocomb emphasized that the Iowa Supreme Court's decision to hear the case directly, bypassing the Court of Appeals, underscores its significance.
In response to the hearing, the BMWED will hold a rally on Feb. 18 outside the Iowa Supreme Court. The goal of the rally is to bring attention to workplace harassment in the railroad industry and support Philip Morgan's family. Nantista called for solidarity among unions and workers across industries, stressing that this issue affects all working people. The rally will include participation from various unions, suicide awareness groups and veterans' organizations, highlighting the broad impact of workplace harassment and the need for systemic change.
Listen to the full episode for an in-depth discussion of this critical case and its potential impact on worker rights and safety.