Some good news

Five thousand workers... great news.

SMITHFIELD WORKERS OK CONTRACT: Five thousand workers at the world’s largest pork processing plant have their first-ever union contract, after a majority of workers at the Smithfield plant in Tarheel, NC ratified the agreement over a two-day vote. Members of UFCW Local 1208 join more than 10,000 other Smithfield workers, and more than 240,000 others who work in the meat packing and food processing industry who have a UFCW union contract. “This contract will completely transform our workplace,” said Orlando Williams. “This is the biggest four-year wage increase Smithfield workers have ever had and it will make a real difference for our families and in this community. We could never have gotten that increase without a chance to bargain with the company. We will finally have a sense of security on the job because through our union we can make sure we have a safe place to work, and that everyone’s treated fairly.” The campaign to organize the Smithfield workers included a major focus on DC-area customers, who make up one of Smithfield’s largest markets. "Thanks to all the local leaders and activists who played such a critical role in supporting the Smithfield workers," said UFCW Local 400 President C. James Lowthers.
photo: 2008 DC Smithfield demo; photo by Tiye Kinlow

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