Picket lines and picket signs – What's Going On?
A strike wave is beginning in the US. Like a wildfire, we don’t know yet whether it will be contained or if it will spread to entire industries.
Most of those walking the picket line are probably going through their first strike. Decades ago, strikes were a common part of having a job. Everyone knew that a strike was in their future. Many workers put away money to survive the battle with the boss.
Every union had a strike fund, from which every worker would receive a weekly check while they were on strike. Sometimes, the strike fund would be able to pay the equivalent of the weekly wage and the premiums of the company medical plan. Other workers were not so lucky. A smaller strike fund might be reserved for helping with mortgages, property taxes or emergency medical bills.
When the union's inspiration through the workers' blood shall run,
There can be no power greater anywhere beneath the sun
The bigger the strike fund, the longer the strikers will be able to go without a paycheck. Of course, “intangibles,” such as the dedication and commitment of the workforce to the union, the number of “veterans” who know the ropes, the number of workers with a second income in their family, the dedication of the union leadership, and the support of the community will all play a role in the success or failure of the strike.
All of the current strikers face an uphill battle due to the enormous wealth and power of the employers. That does not mean the strikers will lose. If they can mobilize public support, and maintain internal unity, then they can confront the corporations on an equal basis.
What can you do?
If you live near a picket line, offer to walk the line for a while. First, introduce yourself to the “picket captain,” then pick up a sign and join in the chants. If possible bring friends and relatives with you. Go as many times as possible.
If you work for a living, the time will come when you will be the one walking the picket line on your own behalf. By helping others in need, you’ll learn some valuable tips when your time comes around.
If you are a union member, talk to your union’s leadership about showing some solidarity by making a sizable contribution to their strike fund. It will help them win, which, in turn, will give you more power in your own workplace.
If the leadership is hesitant to commit, go to the next meeting and make a motion for a contribution. Also, try to get a group together to walk their picket line. You can use your own union’s signs and make a lot of new friends.
We seem to be entering a new phase in the class war. A phase that will work actions, strikes and solidarity with the whole working class. Everyone who is dissatisfied with the direction of the country, and its political leaders, should see this as an opportunity for a real change that benefits the poor, disadvantaged, and working class men and women of all ethnicities.
Union Maid
by Woody Guthrie
There once was a union maid,
She never was afraid,
Of goons and ginks and company finks(2),
And the deputy sheriffs who made the raid.
She went to the union hall, When a meeting it was called,
And when the Legion boys come 'round,
She always stood her ground.
(CHORUS:)
Oh, you can't scare me, I'm sticking to the union,
I'm sticking to the union, I'm sticking to the union.
Oh, you can't scare me, I'm sticking to the union,
I'm sticking to the union 'til the day I die.
This union maid was wise,
To the tricks of company spies,
She couldn't be fooled by a company stool
She'd always organize the guys.
She always got her way,
When she struck for better pay.