November 21, 2012
By UFCW International President Joe Hansen
For the second year, Walmart is planning to put profits before its workers by beginning its Black Friday sales at 8 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day, and forcing its workers to abandon quality time with their own families.
This latest move by the biggest retail employer in our country is only the most recent blow to Walmart associates, who are already struggling to survive on an average hourly wage of $8.81, and are punished or fired for sticking together to address the erratic work schedules that do not provide enough hours to support a family or qualify for benefits.
When workers like those thousands across the country who belong to OUR Walmart (The Organization for Respect at Walmart) have spoken out for change in the workplace, they have been unfairly silenced by their employer. That’s why Walmart workers are taking a stand. Last month, members of OUR Walmart participated in the first-ever strikes and protests against the company in cities across the country.
And now on Thanksgiving Day and Black Friday, these brave men and women will take a stand against the retail giant to protest Walmart’s attempt to silence workers who speak out for change. Will you join us in supporting Walmart strikers?
Stand with Walmart workers as they go on strike this Black Friday.
Find a strike or solidarity event near you or adopt a store and host an event of your own. Donate to support Walmart workers who will lose much-needed wages while on strike.
Go to the Making Change at Walmart Facebook page to leave a message of support for Walmart workers.
Thank you so much for supporting these brave workers. Happy holidays to you and your families as well.
