Victor Gotbaum, 1921-2015. Image courtesy of Mark Benoit
Much has been said about Victor Gotbaum’s many contributions to our country, and to our city in particular. His place among the legends of organized labor is secure; his position as a master negotiator while helping save NYC from bankruptcy has been acknowledged; and his fierce defense of the working class and those trying join it has been well-documented.
I will not revisit his many accomplishments here – others have already done that and thankfully so, because while history is permanent, it is also quiet, and the story of why Victor Gotbaum was who he was is a loud, somewhat profane and none-too-gentle narrative. We should all learn from it.
