A friend of mine just announced that they and their co-workers are going on a strike to protest poor working conditions and pay.
What are some concrete steps I can do to support them? What are some things they can do to ensure the strike gets attention and is successful?
Help make striking comfortable.
If they don’t have one already, donate money to rent a portaloo or to ask a local business if they’re happy for strikers to use their washroom facilities.
Provide them with warm drinks, warm meals, and the ability to rest a little.
Alongside that, just keep people entertained and happy.
Show solidarity with them. First things first is don’t give that business any money until the workers win.
Have they talked to any union organizers, or are they going it wildcat? If they don’t have real support behind them to help pay bills etc, the strike will fold quickly and likely be unsuccessful - the boss just has to outlast them. Strike funds are crucial for this reason. If the workers don’t have a way to meet their needs, they’ll lose.
Local social media and news outlets are good places to broadcast the strike. Talk to people at similar businesses and see if they can join the strike.
Thanks for the suggestions!
Have they talked to any union organizers, or are they going it wildcat?
Not sure! I know they have an official union rep, but I don’t know if they’re a formal union with real support. I’ve asked and will reply again once I find out!
Local social media and news outlets are good places to broadcast the strike. Talk to people at similar businesses and see if they can join the strike.
Absolutely! I asked if they have a web page or official statement that can be shared with local news orgs. I don’t think they do yet, but I’m pushing them to get one out!
primary thing $$$
it’s what will ultimately make or break the strike. people start getting desperate when they are behind on their rent
Endless supply of cheap pizza delivered to the picket line.
That’s a great idea, thanks for the suggestion! I’m not exactly Mr. Money Bags but I can probably afford to send some cheap pizza once/week or something!
As an aside, it’s crazy how expensive delivered food is! I get it, but delivery’s definitely become a ‘luxury’!
Maybe pizza and hot coffee? Def money