Fired Warehouse Workers to Vacuum-Maker: ‘Clean Up Your Act!’

[Omaha Steve]

We didn't know. We bought a bissel carpet cleaner late last year.

http://www.inthesetimes.com/working/entry/5679/vacuum-maker_should_clean_up_its_act_chicago-area_warehouse_workers_at_inte/

Monday March 15 3:12 pm

By Kari Lydersen

CHICAGO—Marketers for Bissell, the vacuum and cleaning products company, came to the International Home and Housewares Show at Chicago’s convention center last weekend to sell their latest products to Wal-Mart, Target, Kohl’s and other major retailers.

But while displaying their wares, company representatives got a clear message from workers fired last fall after filing discrimination and unfair labor practice charges. Fired workers were joined by about 100 supporters rallied by the UE union, which is advocating for the Bissell workers as part of its larger Warehouse Workers for Justice campaign.


Workers fired from Bissell's Chicago-area warehouse in November demanded the company's attention at an international trade show in Chicago on Sunday, March 15. (Photo courtesy Kari Lydersen)


As I previously covered on this blog, about 70 workers were fired in November from Bissell’s warehouse in suburban Will County—part of a massive distribution hub where 150,000 workers process retail goods coming from overseas for transport throughout the nation. Female Bissell workers were often paid $2.50 per hour less than men for the same jobs – which they say is especially ironic since women purchase the bulk of homecare products.

“It’s total discrimination,” said Cindy Marble. “I was fired simply in retaliation for standing up for myself.”

Through the UE and local clergy, the workers are demanding restitution and ideally rehiring with fair pay and improved working conditions. Most of the workers have been so far unable to find other jobs.

“Bissell, clean up your act!” chanted the crowd, led by Rev. Craig Purchase of Mt. Zion Tabernacle, on the sidewalk outside the convention center. Upon learning that Bissell representatives were watching from inside, the group spread out across the length of the lawn and pumped their fists or shook their fingers directly at the glass façade.


FULL story at link.

[HillbillyBob]

1. I m in need of a new vacuum

I guess it won't be a Bissel as my old one is.