Global Union Coalition Expresses Solidarity, Support for Local 235A

Our own Rey Herrera of USW Local 235A joined Glencore workers from around the world last week in Cape Town, South Africa, for a meeting of the Glencore Global Network, part of the IndustriALL Global Union.

Workers from the United States, Chile, Argentina, Zambia, Namibia, South Africa, Canada and Australia shared their experiences with Glencore and worked on a plan for unified action.

Since Glencore initiated its lockout at Sherwin Alumina 16 months ago, the company has continued its pattern of devaluing workers around the globe. Many participants in the IndustriALL meeting reported of permanent employees being replaced by contractors with lower salaries and more precarious working conditions.

The network expressed its solidarity with USW Local 235A and pledged to continue to act around the world in support of Sherwin’s work force.

During the South Africa gathering, the group also participated in a demonstration at a local mining expo, where unionists wore shirts that read “Glencore: We Demand Justice Now!” and were able to attract a large amount of attention in the community.

The group is planning to continue its series of actions to call attention to Glencore’s behavior, including at the company’s upcoming shareholders meeting this spring.

USW Continues to Monitor Bankruptcy

Our local and international leaders continue to monitor the situation regarding Sherwin’s Chapter 11 filing and its announcement that it is considering ceasing operations as of March 31.

The company has said that it still hopes to identify alternative financing and bidders, and that it will continue negotiating with GPP. USW Local 235A remains willing to work with any buyer that is committed to bargaining fairly with our union. We will continue to keep you up to date on any developments in court or at the bargaining table.

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