On June 10, the Teamsters struck against Adelphia Communications. We were forced to stand up for what we deeply believe in, like our grandparents and parents did. If not for them, we would not have the labor standards we now enjoy - a day off, a 40-hour week, safety standards and yes, benefits. If not for unions, we'd probably enjoy working standards that resemble Mexico. We've forgotten the sacrifices that got us Labor Day.

Many have forgotten the people who died on picket lines for the labor cause. We remember the 50s strikes, and the violence. On Jan. 14, 2003, Michelle Rogers, a CWA picketer in Louisville, Ky. was killed on the picket line, leaving behind three daughters.

Today's unions are under assault by corporate America. Since June 10, Adelphia has chosen a "scorched-earth strategy" to battle the union. It has freely spent money against the strike. Remember the limo ride for strikebreakers. Adelphia has spent far more than the contract would have cost.

So what is it all about? Union-busting. Adelphia's goal is to be 100-percent union free. We were told Adelphia would starve us if we struck. God knows they've tried.

Thanks to a community that cares, we haven't gone hungry. Citizens, brothers and sisters of other unions, local businesses donating lunch, water, food and grocery cards have not let us starve. I could never express my gratitude enough. On behalf of all Teamster picketers, thank you and please keep up the good will. Your support is our inspiration to keep walking and praying for a reasonable end to this strike.

A few weeks ago, there was a column in this paper by Gina Colage. She stated "facts" that were untrue. Gina, if everyone thought like you, we'd all be working four jobs to feed our families.

Yes, we're fighting for our pensions. Did you know we've given up raises and, instead, put it in the pension fund?

Did you know we agreed to pay the difference between our present health plan and Adelphia's plan?

Do you have any idea how many concessions were made by the union in negotiations?

Of course not. You weren't there. I don't recall seeing you at the table. Your rendition of the strike just isn't accurate. You are misinformed, at best.

Adelphia didn't put in fiber-optic cable, as you claim. Did you know Auburn Cable was one of the country's first cable companies to launch cable-modems on fiber-optics? Did you know, Auburn Cable was consistently one of the top three systems in the Great Lakes region?

If we should just be thankful to have a job, why be the best? We have pride; we'll never rest until we're America's best system. Our efforts have been rewarded with union busting.

No, Ms. Colage, we're not looking for a free ride. We're asking we be able to support our families We'll work for every penny, as always.

You are right about one thing. The cost of living has gone up. Gina, do you realize folks on the picket line haven't had a raise in four years? And yet, we're one of the best systems Adelphia has.

I hope everyone enjoyed Labor Day, brought to you with pride by the unions of America.

And, again, from the bottom of my heart, we thank you for your continued support and goodwill.

Mr. Fedyshyn, of Auburn, writes as Union Steward, Teamsters Local 118.