My name is Diane Middleton. I am a retired labor attorney, a former Los Angeles Harbor Commissioner, and an honorary member of ILWU Local 13. I have lived in San Pedro for more than 50 years.  As an attorney, I had the privilege of representing some 7,000 waterfront workers.

I have long believed that the San Pedro Bay ports complex is integral to the economic success of our region. The Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach should work together and utilize every available resource to ensure the continued viability and strength of this economic engine.

I had the honor of serving on the Los Angeles Harbor Commission for many years, and I now serve as the Special Advisor on Port Affairs to Los Angeles City Councilmember Tim McOsker. Throughout my career, I have worked at the intersection of labor, industry, and the community, and I understand how important thoughtful, experienced leadership is to the future of our ports and our region.

It is in that spirit that I am inviting you to my home for a special brunch fundraiser in support of my longtime friend, Vivian Malauulu.

I first met Vivian in 2000, when she showed up to volunteer at an event for the Harry Bridges Institute of which I was a co-founder. Since that time, she has been a constant and reliable presence throughout the Harbor community—always willing to show up, do the work, and support others.

That is why I was among the first to host a fundraiser for Vivian in 2015 when she was running to get on the Long Beach City College Board. She was successful in that campaign and is now serving her third term as a trustee. Vivian has accomplished a great deal during her tenure, including founding the LBCC Labor Center which is the first of its kind in the Harbor Area. I’ve included a few photos of us, including one from that event in my backyard with some of our guests.

Vivian is intentional, passionate, committed, and well-prepared. She does her homework, understands the issues, and stands up for both workers and the community. She is a longtime union member who has been elected by the rank and file to multiple leadership positions, a testament to the trust and respect she has earned.

She is also a devoted wife and dedicated mother. I have watched with admiration as she loves on her family with the same care, discipline, and commitment that she brings to her public service.

Vivian is currently completing a doctoral dissertation focused on workforce development in this era of automation and artificial intelligence.  Her research is a case study on the longshore industry. Even in her academic work, she remains deeply connected to labor, economic opportunity, and the future of working families.

Please join my cohosts, Senator Laura Richardson, Supervisor Janice Hahn, and my boss, Councilman Tim McOsker in my home as we come together to support Vivian who we all believe will make an excellent Councilwoman.

Please see the attached flyer for event details. I kindly ask that you RSVP by clicking on the flyer or calling me at 310-547-9010 so we can prepare accordingly.

I look forward to seeing you on Saturday, March 7th.

Sincerely,

Diane Middleton

Vice President of the Port of LA Harbor Commission (Retired)