Bail out Workers, Not Banks! Stop Plant Closings!

The ANSWER Coalition in San Francisco has initiated a demonstration, co-sponsored by the San Francisco Labor Council (AFL-CIO) and the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement - SF, against the Bank of America to build solidarity with the workers of Republic Windows and Doors in Chicago, who have staged a sit-down strike to keep their jobs. This is an all-important struggle; millions of workers are getting their shaft from their bosses, who are using the economic crisis to steal their benefits and pensions. These workers are fighting back. Come out tomorrow, Dec. 9, to say "Bail out the workers, not the banks!" If you are holding similar activities in your town or city, please let us know by emailing [email protected].

Bail out Workers, Not Banks! Stop Plant Closings! 
Protest Bank of America, Tues., Dec. 9, 5pm
Powell and Market, San Francisco
Click this link to download the flyer


BoA protest flyer
Click this link to download the flyer

Over 200 workers have occupied their workplace factory at Republic Windows and Doors in Chicago, after the company shut down the plant, claiming lack of funds to pay the workers their back pay, vacation and other benefits, or to give 60 days’ notice as required by federal law.

The plant closing was precipitated by Bank of America’s refusal to extend any more credit to the company, despite the fact that B of A has received $25 billion in bailout funds. These billions were supposed to help relieve credit shortages and help sustain jobs. Instead, the banks are using taxpayer dollars to merge into larger banks. Bank of America and JP Morgan Chase are the two banks that invest in Republic  Windows and Doors. The workers are owed an average of 75 days’ pay and vacation. Companies are bound by federal law to either give 60 days’ notice with pay, before a plant closing or layoff of 50 or more workers.

It is reported that Republic Windows and Doors is planning to move its plant to Iowa because of cheaper labor costs, and to get out of union obligations with the United Electrical Workers Union. Workers across the country are paying a heavy price for the bank’s and corporations’ theft. It’s time for the bankers and companies to pay, NOT THE WORKERS!

The protest is initiated by A.N.S.W.E.R. Coalition. It is co-sponsored by the San Francisco Labor Council (AFL-CIO) and the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement - SF.

To endorse and get involved, call 415-821-6545. If you are holding similar activities in your town or city, please let us know by emailing [email protected].

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