Our History
Rio Grande Stevedores Union
The Union of Stevedores and Coal and Mineral Workers of Rio Grande, Pelotas, and São José do Norte is one of the oldest and most traditional union organizations in Brazil. Founded in 1931, our union represents a history of struggle, resistance, and achievements in defense of port workers.
For over nine decades, we have been the active voice of the category, defending rights, promoting improvements in working conditions, and ensuring dignity for workers and their families.
History of Port Work
Colonial and Imperial Period
The Port of Rio Grande has its origins in the Brazilian colonial period, when the region was strategic for the flow of agricultural and livestock production from the south of the country.
During the Empire, the port grew in importance, and port workers began to organize informally to defend their common interests.
Industrialization and Organization
With the beginning of industrialization in Brazil, the union movement gained strength. Port workers from Rio Grande were among the pioneers in collective organization.
The founding of the union in 1931 marked a historic moment, consolidating the formal representation of the category.
Regulation and Rights
From the 1940s, with the CLT and specific labor laws for the port sector, stevedores conquered important rights.
The union played a fundamental role in monitoring compliance with these laws and negotiating better conditions.
Timeline
Union Foundation
In 1931, port workers from Rio Grande formally united, creating the Stevedores Union. This historic milestone represented the beginning of a journey of organized struggle.
- First general assembly with more than 200 workers
- Approval of the first bylaws
- Election of the first union board
Consolidation and Growth
The 1940s and 1950s were marked by the consolidation of the union as the legitimate representative of the category.
Achievements
- Implementation of assistance benefits
- Acquisition of the first own headquarters
- Establishment of collective conventions
Expansion
- Affiliation with national federations
- Creation of work committees
- Expansion of regional representation
Resistance and Perseverance
During the military period, the union faced great challenges but maintained its structure and continued defending workers.
Challenges
- Government interventions
- Restrictions on demonstrations
- Pressure on leadership
Advances
- Maintenance of internal organization
- Preservation of conquered rights
- Mutual support among workers
Redemocratization and Renewal
With political opening, the union experienced a period of renewal and strengthening.
Victory: Active participation in the movement for the redemocratization of Brazil.
Mobilization: Organization of large assemblies and demonstrations by the category.
Modernization and New Challenges
The new millennium brought challenges of port modernization, but also opportunities for growth.
Recent Achievements
- Modernization of union structure
- Expansion of assistance services
- Professional training and qualification
- Strengthening of collective bargaining
Current Struggles
- Maintenance of labor rights
- Occupational health and safety
- Professional appreciation
- Adaptation to new technologies
Historic Leaders
Founders
The pioneers who started the union organization of Rio Grande stevedores.
- First union leaders
- Organizers of the first assemblies
- Founders of the entity
Resistance Leaders
Those who kept the union active during difficult periods.
- Leaders of the military period
- Leaders of historic strikes
- Defenders of labor rights
Contemporary Leaders
The leaders who lead the union in the modern era.
- Recent presidents
- Executive directors
- Union representatives
The Port of Rio Grande
The Port of Rio Grande is one of the most important in Brazil, being the only maritime port in Rio Grande do Sul. Its strategic importance for the regional and national economy is invaluable.
Our Legacy
The Rio Grande Stevedores Union has built a legacy of struggle, achievements, and solidarity that continues to inspire generations of port workers.
90+
Years of History
400+
Workers Represented