[mobglob-discuss] Steelworkers On Strike

[Gordon Flett]

46 members of USWA Local 2952 struck Modern Auto Plating Ltd. in
Vancouver on January 24, 2002.

They are attempting to improve workplace health & safety conditions,
while asking for modest increases in wages and benefits. You only have
to see the outside of this sweatshop to realize why these workers need
health & safety improvements. On the inside they work under conditions
similar to those that existed in England during the Industrial
Revolution in the latter part of the 19th century. 12 members have
crossed their own picket line and are scabbing on their fellow workers,
thereby prolonging the strike, as the owner refuses to negotiate.

You can help by visiting their picket line at 60 East 5th Ave. (at
Quebec St.) to show support for these exploited, mostly immigrant
workers from Eastern Europe. They picket from 6:30 AM to 5:00 PM Monday
to Friday, and from 8:00 to 11:00 AM on Saturdays. Refreshments and food
are always welcome.

The I.W.W. Vancouver holds a solidarity picket with them every Tuesday
at noon, and will continue to do so until the end of the strike. We
invite others to participate, but any time that someone can visit and
show support is greatly appreciated by these workers. It strengthens
their resolve, by showing that someone still cares. That they are not
alone, and not forgotten. They shall not be forgotten, these strikers
who continue to stand on that picket line after such a very long time,
and refuse to be beaten. Others might have been broken long ago, but not
these brave souls. They are the pride of the labour movement, and should
be treated as such.

For further information about the strike, and/or about how you can help,
please contact Local 2952 President Scott McRitchie at
604-525-7481. The company's # is 604-876-4161.

I.W.W. Vancouver Strike Support Committee

I.W.W. I.U. 450