(We here at Dialogic believe that labor/work issues are going to continue to be the most pressing concern facing the majority of Americans and people around-the-world--for ease of marking lets say the bottom 75%--and that we "all" need to begin to stronger alliances of support and action to avoid the predatory shock doctrine style exploitation of workers in this environment of rogue economics. As our treasury is plundered, workers are laid-off; as our banking CEOs use bailout money for bonuses and expense-accounts, workers lose retirement benefits or their funds are looted; as de/non-regulated businesses continue to manipulate/monopolize markets more and more Americans have no health insurance or face the cutting of their health benefits. When will we get tired of this exploitiation? When will we begin to look beyond our immediate circle and form the necessary alliances that can protect our rights? Nod to Michael Marchman!)
Laid-off workers occupy Chicago factory
ASSOCIATED PRESS
CHICAGO Workers laid off from their jobs at a factory have occupied the building and are demanding assurances they'll get severance and vacation pay that they say they are owed.
About 200 employees of Republic Windows and Doors began their sit-in Friday, the last scheduled day of the plant's operation. Today, about 50 workers could be seen through a window sitting on chairs and pallets on the factory floor. Reporters were asked to stay out of the plant's work area.
"We're going to stay here until we win justice," said Blanca Funes, 55, of Chicago, after occupying the building for several hours. Speaking in Spanish, Funes said she fears losing her home without the wages she feels she's owed. A 13-year employee of Republic, she estimated her family can make do for three months without her paycheck. Most of the factory's workers are Hispanic.
Leah Fried, an organizer with the United Electrical Workers, said the Chicago-based vinyl window manufacturer failed to give 60 days' notice required by law before shutting down.
Workers also were angered when company officials didn't show up for a meeting Friday that had been arranged by U.S. Rep. Luis Gutierrez, a Chicago Democrat, Fried said.
During the peaceful take-over, workers have been shoveling snow and cleaning the building, Fried said.
"We're doing something we haven't since the 1930s, so we're trying to make it work," Fried said.
Representatives of Republic Windows did not immediately respond today to calls and e-mails seeking comment.
Police spokeswoman Laura Kubiak said authorities were aware of the situation and officers were patrolling the area.
Crain's Chicago Business reported that the company's monthly sales had fallen to $2.9 million from $4 million during the past month. In a memo to the union, obtained by the business journal, Republic CEO Rich Gillman said the company had "no choice but to shut our doors."
Union officials said another meeting with the company is scheduled for Monday afternoon.
More:
Jobs With Justice: Hold Bank of America Accountable
United Electrical, Radio and Machine Workers of America (UE) Updates on the Occupation
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