Safety: In This Together

We are the IBEW, and we are family. We are in uncharted waters now as we are going through extraordinary circumstances. I want to tell you that we are in this together. In the 39 years of being a member of IBEW 11, I have been through a few recessions, a couple large earthquakes and riots, all which shut down Los Angeles. I have been on 4-day work week schedule due to lack of work and also worked on jobs that paid 80% wages just to be able to work. After all this… IBEW 11 is still the 3rd largest local in the country. We lead the country in our forward thinking and PLA’s signed.

In my short time, we have gotten through it all. The IBEW has been around 129 years. Our past members have weathered World War 1, the Great Depression, World War 2, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. WE have members who have survived Afghanistan, Iraq and Iran conflicts. WE will get through this. WE as IBEW members are not like everyone else. WE share the Brotherhood heart. WE truly are family as our Founding Fathers would have wanted it to be. WE carry a tradition of being the safest, best trained professional Electricians out there. It is our tradition to look after each other.

And that brings me to my point. WE truly are our Brothers and Sisters Keeper. WE need to look after each. At this time, more than ever, we need to come together. WE need to support each other. Take time to listen to each other. Encourage peace and calm. If you are going to work, then you need to work but do it safely. We have many new members that have never seen tough times. Make sure to let them know. We are in this together. And we will get through this. And after all this is over, we will still be that family, still together. History will tell how the IBEW came out of this situation. Be sure that the story told will be one of solidarity, fraternity and Brotherhood. Remember, don’t ever look down at your brother and sister unless your bent over holding your hand out to lift them up.

I am available 24/7. Text or email is best if you need questions answered. I am continuing to answer and return calls I have received.

I pray that God bless and keep you, yours and our IBEW members safe. You and yours are in my daily prayers.

Yours in Brotherhood,

Bro. Ivan De Herrera, Jr.
Asst. Business Manager
Director of Safety
IBEW Local 11