Mine Workers Feed DC Occupations

(Metropolitan Washington Council, AFL-CIO)“This is our fight too,” said Bob Gaydos yesterday as the United Mine Workers of America Deputy Director of Organizing unloaded a trailer full of $2,000 worth of food and winter clothing into the willing arms of occupiers at both McPherson Square and Freedom Plaza. “We’re all in this together,” Gaydos said, “we’re the 99 percent.” Gaydos -- who was accompanied by UMWA's David Kameras and Jason Haught -- toured both camps, stopping frequently to chat with occupiers who responded enthusiastically to the bright gold Mine Workers logo on his jacket. “Mine workers are the hardest workers in America!” called out one, “God bless you all!” Freedom Plaza’s Mike Sheffer told Gaydos that “We’ve been having a lively debate about the role of unions in our movement” and invited Mine Workers President Cecil Roberts  -- who, along with Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Kane, had sent the supplies – to conduct a teach-in on organized labor. “This is a perfect time for you to visit,” Sheffer told Gaydos, who promised to pass along the invitation. “We really appreciate it!”
Supplies and funds are running low at both DC occupations, which are among the last still going on across the country. Among the items needed are emergency blankets, rain ponchos, and hand warmers; to find out how you or your local can best support the occupations, please email jkann@dclaborarchives.org.
- photo of Bob Gaygos (L) unloading holiday goodies for occupiers at Freedom Plaza by Chris Garlock