Goodyear Strikers Settling in for Long Haul
Editors Note: After over six weeks, more than 15,000 Steelworkers remain on strike against Goodyear Tire and Rubber. The company has called in scab workers in many locations, but pickets remain strong. The following letter is from a striker in North Carolina.
After being out on strike for 41 days we have settled in for the long haul. The road has been long and brutal. Some friendships have been broken by people crossing the line and becoming scabs, and some new friendships have been formed.
We have stood together in solidarity and will continue to stand strong. The community has been very supportive of our efforts and we really appreciate it. A local grocery store (Food Lion) has kept our picket lines fully stocked with coffee, soda, water, pastries, and other items. The local Ford dealership (Crown Ford) came to the union hall and cooked hamburgers and hot dogs for all of our members.
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We have had individuals (too many to name for fear of leaving someone out) donate water, soda, cups, and other items.
One of my new friendships has been with Nichele Fulmore, who has been very inspirational to me. Even though we’re from different unions (she’s a Teamster), she calls me to keep my spirits lifted, and she and her family have walked the line with us. Nichele and her co-workers have scheduled a pig picking for our union members on November 18.
The support from other local unions has been overwhelming. Brothers and sisters that we have never met are standing strong with us in our struggle. Thank you so much for all of your support; you will never be forgotten.
The Steelworkers and the company have returned to Cincinnati, Ohio to restart the negotiations. Hopefully we can return to work soon.