An official working for Nautilus Federation affiliate union, the International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots (MM&P), has been honoured for her seafarer advocacy.
Randi Ciszewski was presented with an award by non-profit Lutheran maritime mission Seafarers International House for her work on behalf of US civil service mariners at a ceremony in New York City on 18 April.
Ms Ciszewski is the MM&P government group representative and has advocated for the rights of civil service mariners for well over 40 years: first as the labour relations director for Military Sealift Command – the organisation that controls the replenishment and military transport ships of the United States Navy – and for the past 22 years as an MM&P official.
'My goal has always been to advocate for human rights as well as union rights,' she said. 'Every worker has the right to show up for work and be accepted. No employer should be a safe harbour for intolerance or hatred of any kind.'
Ms Ciszewski has become a powerful voice on maritime issues. She relies on her extensive experience in employment law, negotiation, and conflict resolution to administer federal terms and conditions of employment.
She is also the recipient of numerous professional honours, including the Navy Meritorious Civilian Service Award.
Paying tribute, MM&P president Don Marcus said: 'There is no more knowledgeable, dedicated or resolute representative in our organisation than Randi Ciszewski. She is foremost in protecting our members' rights.'
Head of the ITF Seafarers' Trust Katie Higginbottom was also recognized for her work at the New York ceremony. She works in close cooperation with international maritime unions and other organizations on issues that affect seafarers' wellbeing.
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