Frederick Joseph, a Virgin Islands labor leader who helped secure better wages and working conditions for unionized refinery workers, is being remembered for his activism and community support.
Joseph — known to his friends as Freddy — passed away Sept. 23 at the age of 81. Among those paying tribute was Delegate to Congress Stacey Plaskett, who called Joseph “a fierce, passionate, and meticulous” advocate.
He was best known for his work with the United Steelworkers Union, Local 8248, where in 2001, he helped preserve the jobs of about 240 Hovensa refinery workers when the Texas-based subcontractor they worked for was replaced by Triangle Construction and Maintenance. At the time of the transfer, there were concerns that the local workers would be replaced by imported labor brought in from the U.S. mainland.
Prior to that — in 1999 — Joseph led the civilian staff at the Virgin Islands Police Department through an effort for better workplace conditions. And, in 2002, the Steelworkers leader helped resolve a strike involving workers at Innovative Communications.
“He was a fierce champion of the rights of the working men and women, and was instrumental in shaping the pillars and building the foundation of organized labor locally,” said Democratic Party Chairwoman Carol Burke in her condolence message issued Thursday.
Joseph held the title of Steelworkers subdistrict director until his retirement. Plaskett credited him for supporting her first Congressional campaign and his continued support through her years of service. Although the delegate also mentioned the verbal jabs she suffered from Joseph and the late labor leader Luis “Tito” Morales during the days when they sat on opposite sides of the negotiating table.
“I enjoyed being jointly — affectionately — challenged, badgered, and harassed by him and Tito Morales … As can happen in the practice of law, when you find worthy competitors, it breeds mutual respect and oftentimes friendships,” Plaskett said.
Those who paused to acknowledge his passing expressed condolences for Joseph’s wife, Amy, other relatives, and members of his swimming group.
Funeral services are pending.
