25¢ more is not a serious counterproposal
Our critical two-day bargaining session ahead of our Unfair Labor Practice (ULP) strike authorization votes has wrapped up and the companies have done nothing but insult us with a 25-cent increase to their wage proposal, bringing it to a pitiful $2.75 over three years. Even more insulting – their proposal is NOT RETROACTIVE to our contract expiration!
After two days at the table, this counterproposal is a slap in the face. We’ve proposed solutions for the staffing crisis as well as ideas for improving our benefits and closing the gap between the Food and GM clerks, but all they’ve done is refuse to talk about the issues important to us. What are we doing here, then?
What’s worse is that they’re also breaking the law by committing unfair labor practices, like unlawful surveillance of workers, interrogation at worker actions, threats, and retaliation for protected union activity.
By violating our rights, Kroger and Albertsons are making our fight for our futures, our families and our communities harder. We need EVERY SINGLE UNION MEMBER to come out and vote YES during the Unfair Labor Practice Strike vote. We’re scheduled to come back to the table on June 10 and 11 and when we show up with a vote that shows we’re backed by 45,000 members across Southern California, the companies should recognize our seriousness and negotiate a fair contract.
ULP STRIKE VOTES START SOON!
UFCW Local 135’s ULP Strike Authorization vote takes place online via text/email starting on Sunday, June 8 at 8:00 AM and ends at 5:00 PM on Wednesday, June 11. Vote anytime between those days and times on your phone, tablet, or computer.
Two Zoom informational meetings will take place beforehand on Friday, June 6 at 9:00 AM and again at 5:00 PM to provide details about the vote, answer questions, and share a bargaining update. Contact your Union Representative for the registration link or send a request via email to info@ufcw135.com.
It is important that the union has our correct cell phone number and email for us to receive our electronic ballot. If you need to update your contact information, please do so here.
Let’s make our voices heard!
When the text/email ballot link is sent at 8:00 AM on Sunday, June 8, click it, read over the information, then vote YES to give strike authority! Providing strike authority does not mean we are automatically on strike. It gives us the option to declare one if needed. Join us for the Zoom meeting on June 6 to learn more about it.
If you have ANY questions about what’s happening at the table, the strike vote, how you can stand up against our company’s actions, or anything else, reach out to your Union Representative.
In Solidarity,
Your UFCW Local 135 Grocery Workers Rising Bargaining Committee
