June 18, 2008

Community Rally in Support of the Non-Food Workers at the Dalles Fred Meyer                                  

On Tuesday, July 17, in a clear show of support, a large group of both community activists and local union members gathered together in support of the non-food workers at The Dalles Fred Meyer.  The community is standing behind the workers as they continue their efforts to get a fair contract with their employer, Fred Meyer, now owned by Kroger. 

Back in November, the non-food employees overwhelmingly voted to be represented by UFCW Local 555, joining their co-workers in the grocery, meat, and CCK departments who are already represented by Local 555.  The non-food workers don't understand why Fred Meyer is treating them different than the rest of the store, "We are being treated like second class workers" said one non-food employee.  "They all work for Fred Meyer, they are all serving the community, they all deserve to be treated with respect" said a community activist.  The workers are striving for  quality, affordable health care, wages that support families, seniority and full-time work, and stable and safe money for retirement (pension).