Safeway Strike
You probably know Graham, the chatty Safeway check out guy. I met him standing outside the store today and chatted about the strike he and his co-workers are holding. Having spoken to a number of striking workers, they claim to be overworked, as the store is chronically under-staffed. On top of that, workers’ hours keep getting cut. That does not bode well for Estes Park, as it’s already nearly impossible to find affordable housing on a good salary.
Having been on strike myself a couple of times. As a member of the Writers Guild of America, I served as a strike captain in 2007. Back then, we got lots of international attention. Companies sent us food. I still buy Luna Bars in gratitude. Today in Estes, striking workers sheltered under umbrellas as customers passed them to enter the store. They passed out little flyers explaining why they’re on strike and asking people to call the corporate headquarters and report the under-staffing problem, 877-723-3929.
Before you cross the picket line, have a chat with Graham, or one of the other workers to find out why they’re doing what they’re doing. I, for one, am not shopping at Safeway till their issues are resolved. I might even bring them some Luna Bars.
Sibyl Gardner, Glen Haven