Like most Americans, my ancestors had to work hard to attain and maintain some degree of economic security. Organized labor — which is what we celebrate on Labor Day — played a central role in getting us here.

In Washington state there used to be a bevy of unions and union-like organizations. For example, around the Columbia estuary and Willapa Bay there were multiple unions dedicated to seafood industries alone, including the Trollers’ Union, the Columbia River Fishermen’s Protective Union, the Shoalwater Bay Oyster Workers Union, Willapa Harbor Oyster Workers Union, and more.

It’s easy to forget the struggles past generations endured in order to win things such as eight-hour days, overtime pay, workers compensation and a host other basic workplace standards we take for granted. They didn’t come easy.

Like many men of his generation, my grandfather Elmer Winters lost his job near the start of the Great Depression. Along with other unskilled laborers at the Bloedel Donovan sawmill on the Bellingham waterfront, he was forced out after nearly 30 years of loyal work. A grinding three-year strike eventually achieved unionization of the firm, but by then grandpa was in his 50s and never went back to the mill. My other grandfather, Lafe Bell, was a life-long member of the United Mine Workers and told stories of the inhumane disregard for human life some companies displayed. His chronic illness — black lung from inhaling coal dust — was made more manageable thanks to compensation won by the UMW.

I understand the misgivings some have about unions. I’ve never belonged to one myself. But I think it’s a mistake to believe propaganda spouted against them by those who benefit from “disorganized labor.”

Looking ahead to our next issue, we’ll have our guide to the 2022 Rod Run to the End of World, next weekend’s event that will be nearly the last hurrah for this year’s fun and busy summer. There also will be plenty of news, features and sports — including previews of Ilwaco football, cross country and girls soccer.

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