MEDIA ADVISORY: USW Mobilizes to Demand Fair Contracts in Steel Industry

GARY, Ind., Aug. 19, 2015 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The United Steelworkers (USW) union is holding a series of rallies and marches this week in steel towns across the United States, including Gary, calling for fair contract settlements with U.S. Steel and ArcelorMittal.

The union began bargaining new contracts with the two companies in June. The two master agreements, which cover about 30,000 workers in all, are scheduled to expire on Sept. 1.  

Hundreds of Steelworkers from at least five USW locals, along with family and community members and workers from other Gary area labor organizations, will hold a solidarity march starting at 3:30 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 21, outside the U.S. Steel Yard in Gary. USW members are holding similar events throughout the week in the Pittsburgh area as well as in Coatesville, Pa.; East Chicago, Ind.; Ecorse, Mich.; Fairfield, Ala.; Fairless Hills, Pa.; Granite City, Ill.; Lorain, Ohio; Steelton, Pa.; Virginia, Minn.; Warren, Ohio; and Weirton, W.Va.

"We recognize that this is a difficult time for the steel industry," said USW International President Leo W. Gerard. "But we also recognize that for generations, these have been good, middle-class jobs that have allowed workers to care for their families and support their communities.

"It is important that we make sure that remains true for our generation and for those who come after us."

WHO: USW members along with labor and community allies

WHAT: Day of action calling for fair contracts with U.S. Steel and ArcelorMittal

WHEN: 3:30 p.m., Friday, Aug. 21

WHERE: U.S. Steel Yard, 600 E. Fifth Ave., Gary, Ind., 46402

The USW represents 850,000 workers in North America employed in many industries that include metals, rubber, chemicals, paper, oil refining and the service and public sectors, including approximately 17,000 workers at U.S. Steel and 13,000 at ArcelorMittal. For more information: www.usw.org/steel.

CONTACT: 
R.J. Hufnagel, 412-562-2450
[email protected]

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SOURCE United Steelworkers (USW)

Related Links

http://www.usw.org