[news] Steelworkers Still On Strike

[Gordon Flett]

The 46 members of USWA Local 2952 at Modern Auto Plating Ltd. in Vancouver
have been on strike for over 28 months now, since 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.

Initially the owner refused to allow WCB inspectors into the plant, thinking
it of course was optional, being his "private property" and all. But when
they did inspect it numerous violations were found and Modern Auto was fined
$12,000 and ordered to correct the violations.

Picket support is badly needed and people can help by visiting them at 60
East 5th Ave. (at Quebec St.) to bolster the spirits of these exploited,
mostly immigrant workers from Eastern Europe, and show the boss that they
are not alone. They picket from 6:30 AM to 4:00 PM Monday to Friday, and
from 8:00 to 11:00 AM on Saturdays. Refreshments and food are always
welcome, as are union/organization banners, flags, and signs.

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 B.C. 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