A message from President Dave Weidlich
It is with deep sadness and profound gratitude that we honor the life and legacy of our Union sister, Monique LaBonte. Monique was more than a member of CWA Local 1298. She was a fierce advocate, a steady voice, and a constant source of strength for the workers she represented and the Union she loved. She was highly respected not only by her Union brothers and sisters but also by the managers and labor relations managers that she would fiercely challenge when needed.
Monique’s journey in the labor movement began in July of 1980 when she started her career with Southern New England Telephone. Over the next 37 years, she built not only a remarkable Union career, but also lasting friendships and an enduring reputation as someone who would always stand up for what was right. She was a strong advocate for our local through every change, challenge, and transition through different employers and multiple rounds of contract negotiations.
Monique followed in the footsteps of her father Omer LaBonte who worked at SNET and served as a Business Agent for CUTW. Monique remained grounded in her belief that workers deserve respect, fairness, and dignity. She was a proud member of both the Plant One and Headquarters departments. As a Job Steward, Business Agent, and member of several union committees and bargaining committees, she brought professionalism, knowledge, and a deep commitment to the members of this Union. Her dedication to record keeping and preserving Union history was unparalleled, and she used that experience to advocate effectively and passionately on their behalf.
Those of us that had the privilege to work alongside Monique are grateful for Monique’s years of dedication, for her unwavering voice, and for the example she leaves behind. Her work strengthened our Union. Her leadership helped protect countless workers and their families. To her family and loved ones, we extend our deepest condolences and our heartfelt thanks for sharing Monique with us. She was truly one of a kind, and she will never be forgotten. In solidarity, we honor her memory by continuing the work she cared about so deeply. That is the greatest tribute we can offer.
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