About our founder
Maurice Perkins's was raised in the Chicago Black Labor Movement. He was a card-carrying member of the International Long Shoreman's Association Local 19 AFL-CIO at only 15 years of age.
From 1965 to 1985 Black men would work at the Navy Pier docks, Creiters Creek and Calumet Harbor. During these times, all were paid prevailing union wages with benefits and vacation pay. These jobs helped Mr. Perkins get the job and life he wanted.
Mr. Perkins says he owes everything to the Chicago Black Labor Movement and the Stevedore dock bosses that took an interest in his development as a man.
National and State Historical Landmark Site
Swift Mansion. Photo provided by Lee Bey