Hugo Black

“ Although affiliated with the C.I.O., the Union is primarily a fishermen's association, composed of fishermen who conduct their operations in the Pacific Ocean and navigable streams in Washington and Oregon and some of their employees. The fishermen own or lease fishing boats, ranging in value from $100 to $15,000, and carry on their business as independent entrepreneurs, uncontrolled by the petitioner or other processors. ”

“ Sanitary Grocery Co., 303 U.S. 552, 562, 304 U.S. 542, 58 S.Ct. 703, 707, 82 L.Ed. 1012, cannot be taken as having erased the distinctions between an association of commodity sellers and an association of employees. Specific recognition by Congress of associations of fishermen as sellers of commodities has been given in an act 'Authorizing associations of producers of aquatic products.' 48 stat. ”

“ The Circuit Court of Appeals reversed, holding that a 'labor dispute' was involved and that the District Court was therefore without jurisdiction to enjoin. 117 F.2d 310. To review this question, we granted certiorari. 314 U.S. 600, 62 S.Ct. 123, 86 L.Ed. --.
The petitioner has plants for proceeding and canning fish in Oregon, Washington, and Alaska. It distributes its products in interstate and foreign commerce. Its supply of fish chiefly depends upon its ability to purchse from independent fishermen. ”