Maurice Buford v. Laborers' International Union

**Union Worker Loses Discrimination and Contract Claims Against Union** Maurice Buford, a union member, sued his union (Laborers' International Union Locals 269 and 4) claiming they discriminated against him based on race and failed to properly represent him as required under their duties. The court ruled completely in favor of the union. The judge found that Buford failed to provide any evidence that the union treated him differently because of his race or discriminated against him. Additionally, his claim that the union breached its duty to represent him was filed too late - the law requires such complaints to be filed within six months, and Buford missed this deadline. **What This Means for Workers:** This case highlights two important points for union members. First, if you believe your union has discriminated against you, you need solid evidence to prove your case - suspicions or feelings alone won't be enough in court. Second, timing matters when filing complaints against your union. If you think your union has failed in its duty to represent you properly, you must act quickly and file your complaint within six months, or you may lose your right to sue entirely.