Dockworkers in New London, represented by the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA), have been actively protesting at State Pier to safeguard local jobs and maintain their union’s jurisdiction. The rally primarily targets Ørsted, a Danish offshore wind company accused of assigning ILA traditional roles—such as crane and heavy equipment operation—to another union, the International Union of Operating Engineers. The ILA is pushing for a guarantee of jobs for their members and comprehensive training on specialized equipment necessary for offshore wind projects.

The protest received significant support from ILA Local 1291, whose members traveled to New London to stand in solidarity. This demonstration highlights broader concerns about labor rights and jurisdiction in the emerging offshore wind industry along the East Coast. Ørsted has acknowledged the dispute and expressed willingness to negotiate, but the situation remains tense as unions advocate for fair job allocation in these high-demand infrastructure projects