Labor & Employment Law

Wis. Workers Show Big Hearts By Helping Japan?s Survivors

By James Parks

Wisconsin’s public employees have rallied for more than four weeks against the elimination of their right to bargain for middle-class jobs–and despite their struggle, they still have room to help others.   

In response to the tragic events in Japan, the more than 65,000  Wisconsin workers represented by AFSCME Councils 24, 40 and 48 are donating $50,000 to an earthquake relief fund established by RENGO, Japan?s trade union confederation on behalf of all AFSCME members nationwide.   

?Even as our members are facing great stress from being singled out as scapegoats for our state’s budgetary problems, their true nature shows though,? says Marty Beil, executive director of the Wisconsin State Employees Union, Council 24.

Our members have big hearts. They are committed to serving others, so it is only natural that even now their thoughts and compassion are flowing to the people of Japan.

If your union is planning to donate to help Japanese workers, please let Adam Renz in the AFL-CIO International Affairs Department know at arenz@aflcio.org.  

Rick Badger, executive director of  Council 40, said:

Because so many of our members serve on the front lines during disasters and emergencies, seeing the plight of our Japanese sisters and brothers has touched us all deeply.

 Council 48 Executive Director Rich Abelson added:

Emergency workers in Japan are bravely and tirelessly putting their own lives on the line to protect and serve others as this catastrophe continues. We understand the vital role these workers play and we want to do whatever we can to show our support in this desperate time.

Full post as published by AFL-CIO NOW BLOG on March 18, 2011 (boomark / email).