UFCW Local 400 is keeping a close eye on negotiations between sister locals in New England and Stop & Shop, where the current contract expired recently. In an unprecedented display of solidarity, 35,000 Stop & Shop workers in New England, represented by five UFCW locals, have come together to strengthen their position at the bargaining table, where the company is demanding cuts in wages and benefits. Local 400 -- which is sending a crew up to Boston this week -- is urging DC-area members and labor activists to call Stop & Shop – 1-800-767-7772 – “and tell them to stop threatening our New England members and their families. Tell them that you stand with our New England union family. Tell them to do what is right.” Stop & Shop is owned by Ahold, which owns Giant Foods; Local 400’s contract with Giant expires on October 31
Here’s today’s labor history: On this date in 1860, some 6,000 shoemakers, joined by about 20,000 other workers, struck in Lynn, Massachusetts. They won raises, but not recognition of their union. In 1932, three thousand unemployed auto workers, led by the Communist Party of America, braved the cold in Dearborn, Michigan to demand jobs and relief from Henry Ford. The marchers got too close to the gate and were gassed. After re-grouping, they were sprayed with water and shot at. Four men died immediately and 60 were wounded. In 1942, IWW founder and labor organizer Lucy Parsons died. In 1988, Hollywood writers represented by the Writers Guild of America struck against 200 television and movie studios over residuals payments and creative rights. The successful strike lasted 150 days, one of the longest in industry history. And on this date in 2003, musicians struck Broadway musicals and shows went dark when actors and stagehands honored picket lines. The strike was resolved after four days. Today’s labor quote is by Lucy Parsons "Never be deceived that the rich will allow you to vote away their wealth."
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