Union's Stand Against Beverage Giant's Unfair Tactics
Company's Heartless Move
For a company to consider taking away workers' pensions and then withdrawing their health care just before the holidays is truly heartless. As Mark Davison, Teamsters Western Region International Vice President and Teamsters Joint Council 37 President, pointed out, "This is beyond cruel. The Teamsters will not back down easily." The workers have shown remarkable resilience in the face of such adversity.It is a blatant attempt by Bigfoot to exert its power over the workers, but they have refused to be intimidated. The workers understand the importance of their benefits and are determined to fight for what is rightfully theirs.
Union's Unwavering Stance
Chris Muhs, Secretary-Treasurer of Local 324, emphasized the union's commitment. "We are not going anywhere. This company may think it can run out the clock on us, but we will stay here until we get the respect and fair treatment we deserve." The longer the strike continues, the more it becomes evident that Bigfoot has a lot to lose.The workers are united in their fight, and their determination is unwavering. They are showing that they are not willing to be pushed around by a company that seems to have forgotten the value of its workers.
New ULP Charges and Company's Response
Teamsters recently filed new unfair labor practice (ULP) charges against Bigfoot after it refused to provide information and resume bargaining. Bigfoot's response was astonishing as it claimed it didn't have to bargain due to a baseless claim of withdrawing recognition of the Teamsters. This blatant disregard for the workers' rights has only fueled the union's anger.The elected officials have also stepped in, urging Bigfoot to find a solution to the strike. However, the company seems to be ignoring their entreaties, further highlighting its intransigence.
Union's Demands and Workers' Power
Brayden Pinney, a member of Local 324 on strike, made it clear that the company's refusal to recognize the union's right to exist is unacceptable. "They think they can treat us like we're beneath them, but that only gives us more motivation to keep fighting. We are the ones who make this company money, and we demand respect."The workers are using their collective power to send a strong message to Bigfoot. By signing the pledge at ibt.io/boycottbigfoot, they are showing their solidarity and determination to make a difference.
The International Brotherhood of Teamsters, founded in 1903 and representing 1.3 million hardworking people in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico, is standing firmly behind its members. Visit Teamster.org for more information and follow them on Twitter @Teamsters and "like" them on Facebook at Facebook.com/teamsters.