Unions Back Walmart Workers’ Nov. 29 ‘Black Friday' Protests
November 22, 2013
With the holiday season upon us, the labor movement is encouraging union members to support Walmart workers in their fight for decent wages and their rights at work.
Thousands of Walmart workers across the country have joined together through Organization United for Respect at Walmart (OUR Walmart) to address the challenges they face in Walmart stores every day.
Their effort is supported by the United Food and Commercial Workers International Union (UFCW) and a growing coalition that includes many AFL-CIO affiliated unions, state federations, and central labor councils.
The labor movement is calling in union members everywhere to stand in solidarity with Walmart workers as they struggle against illegal management actions, said AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka in a letter to union leaders.
“Walmart continues to fire the most outspoken OUR Walmart leaders,” Trumka noted. “Nearly 100 Walmart associates have been disciplined and harassed. Thirty have been terminated. But through tremendous resolve and determination, they continue to speak out and grow the OUR Walmart movement in their stores.”
Two months ago, more than 3,000 activists, union members and allies participated in a civil disobedience to protest unjust and illegal firings of Walmart workers. The demonstration led to the arrest of more than 100 Walmart workers and others who participated.
Take Action Nov. 29
Trumka is urging union members and concerned workers everywhere make plans to support ongoing strikes, protests and other actions, including those set for “Black Friday:” Nov. 29, the busiest shopping day of the year.
For more information about how you can participate and support Walmart workers, visit the official Black Friday campaign website at www.BlackFridayProtests.org.