Casumpang v. International Longshore & Warehouse Union, Local 142

# Casumpang v. International Longshore & Warehouse Union, Local 142 ## What Happened Casumpang criticized the leadership of the International Longshore & Warehouse Union (ILWU) Local 142. In response, the union retaliated against him—taking harmful action because he spoke up. ## What the Court Decided A jury found the union guilty of retaliation. The court awarded Casumpang $240,000 to cover his losses and an additional $1 million in punitive damages (extra money meant to punish the union for bad behavior). The judge later reduced the punitive damages unless Casumpang agreed to accept less. In total, Casumpang received $1.24 million. ## Why This Matters for Workers This case protects workers who speak critically about union leadership. It shows that unions—like employers—cannot punish workers for voicing concerns or criticism. Workers have the right to question union decisions and leadership without fear of retaliation. The large damages award sends a message that unions will face serious financial consequences for retaliating against members who exercise their right to speak.