Nearly two months after members of USW Local 14241-01 walked off the job at Salit Steel in Niagara Falls, workers remain united in their fight for a fair collective agreement.
For Unit Chair Dan Plett, the past several weeks have brought uncertainty and stress, but they have also demonstrated the membership’s determination.
“We just want a fair contract,” says Plett. “Given what everyone is going through, I’m proud of how they’re sticking it out. It means a lot.”
Members are pushing back against concessions that would erode provisions of their collective agreement that were achieved over many years of struggle and solidarity.
“It’s tough on everyone. None of us want to be in this position, but you’ve got to stand up for yourself,” says Alessia Kirchelchner, a Local 14241-01 member. “Solidarity is our strength. We have to band together.”
Throughout the strike, members have continued showing up for one another.
USW Staff Representative Tracy Nguyen says participation on the picket line has remained strong since the first day, even as some members have sought other work to support their families.
“People step in to support each other when someone is sick. The solidarity they’ve shown over these two months has been incredible,” says Nguyen.
That solidarity extends well beyond the picket line. Steelworkers, labour allies and community members have stopped by with food, water, donations and words of encouragement.
“It means everything,” Nguyen adds. “It reminds the members that they’re not in this alone and it gives them hope and the ability to keep going.”
The support strengthens the members’ resolve to negotiate a fair collective agreement that recognizes their primary role in Salit Steel’s success.
“We’re staying together, we’re standing up for ourselves and we’re fighting the good fight,” Kirchelchner says.
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