Daycon Strikers Vindicated By NLRB Decision

(Metropolitan Washington Council, AFL-CIO)

As the semi-trailer jostled its way across the picket line early Friday morning, dozens of striking Daycon workers furiously bellowed “Scab!” at the driver. While the Teamsters Local 639 members – who have been on strike since April 26 – are frustrated with the company’s decision to replace them with strikebreakers, spirits remained high on the line with recent news that the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) has dismissed all charges filed by Daycon against the union and the workers. “This is a ray of hope,” said Teamsters Business Agent Doug Webber, “perhaps Daycon management will rethink their position and begin negotiating in good faith with our members.” Teamsters Shop Steward Eugene Brown – who has worked at Daycon for over 14 years – told Union City, “They’re trying to break us by forcing us to cross the picket line, but we’re standing strong together and will do whatever it takes to win this fight.” He added, “We’re not asking for anything fancy. All we want is a fair day’s pay for a fair day’s work, and to be treated with dignity and respect. It’s time for management to start playing fair and square.” The union has filed unfair labor practice charges against the company, which are currently being reviewed by the NLRB. “The heat has been turned up!” Teamsters 639 President Tommy Ratliff told the workers. “Daycon has had the wind knocked out of their sails.” Non-perishable food items and checks to support the workers can be dropped off or mailed to the Community Services Agency, earmarked 'IBT Strikers', at 888 16th Street, NW, Suite 520, Washington, DC 20006. Email kmckirch@dclaborarchives.org for more information. – report/photo by Adam Wright