Assembly Resolution No. 565
BY: M. of A. Berger
COMMEMORATING the 125th Anniversary of Local Union
No. 3 of the International Brotherhood of Electrical
Workers
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
honor those organizations within the State of New York that have made
significant and lasting contributions to the welfare of working people,
the labor movement, and the fabric of our communities; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 125th Anniversary of Local Union No. 3 of the
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers; and
WHEREAS, Local Union No. 3 of the International Brotherhood of
Electrical Workers (IBEW), headquartered in Queens, is celebrating its
125th Anniversary of affiliation with the IBEW, marking more than a
century of commitment to excellence, solidarity, and justice for
electrical workers; and
WHEREAS, The origins of Local Union No. 3 can be traced back to the
1880s, when it was formed as Local Assembly 5468 of the Knights of
Labor, and later formally affiliated with the IBEW at the dawn of the
20th century, laying the foundation for generations of advocacy, skill
development, and worker empowerment; and
WHEREAS, Throughout its 125-year history, Local Union No. 3 has
fought tirelessly to elevate labor standards, ensure fair wages, secure
safe and dignified working conditions, and uphold the values of the
labor movement in New York and beyond; and
WHEREAS, The union has made remarkable investments in education and
training through its highly respected apprenticeship program, which
provides rigorous classroom instruction and hands-on experience,
producing some of the most skilled and dedicated electrical workers in
the nation; and
WHEREAS, Through its work with the Joint Industry Board of the
Electrical Industry, Local Union No. 3 has administered and overseen a
comprehensive network of benefits for its members and their families,
including healthcare, pensions, scholarships, and career advancement
resources; and
WHEREAS, The Union's strong leadership-past Business Managers Harry
Van Arsdale Jr. and Thomas Van Arsdale, and current officers Business
Manager Christopher Erikson and President Thomas Cleary-has guided the
membership through both high points and challenges over the decades,
providing stability and unwavering support for tens of thousands of
members and their families; and
WHEREAS, Beyond the jobsite, Local Union No. 3 has maintained a
proud tradition of civic engagement, community service, and political
activism, helping to build a more equitable and just society for all
working people; and
WHEREAS, As it marks this milestone anniversary, Local Union No. 3
celebrates the achievements of its past, honors the sacrifices of its
membership, and recommits to its mission of advancing the rights and
dignity of workers for generations to come; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 125th Anniversary of Local Union No. 3 of the
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, recognizing its
unparalleled contributions to labor, industry, and civic life in the
State of New York; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the leadership of Local Union No. 3, IBEW.
