Kaiser Strikers Rally with Food Drive and Protest in Pasadena

A robust turnout of nearly 400 participants marked a significant strike event today at the Kaiser headquarters in Pasadena. The gathering began with a distribution of food and toys at the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) hall before a large procession, stretching more than a block, made its way to the Kaiser offices carrying a symbolic giant cardboard heart.

Outside Kaiser’s corporate offices, local pastors and State Senator Sasha Perez addressed the crowd. The demonstration escalated as workers crossed the security barriers, unifying in their demand for Kaiser to "Settle it now!"

Jade Rosado, speaking with a megaphone to her fellow strikers, declared, “So Kaiser, show us how you treat everyday heroes. All of you are everyday heroes.”

At the entrance, strikers displayed a letter signed by a majority of California Assembly members urging Kaiser to agree to contract terms favorable to the workers. These letters were left on the symbolic heart for Kaiser representatives to review.

The event, supported by allied unions, began with a successful food and toy drive, ensuring all children present received gifts.

Letter Delivered

Earlier in the week, Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas met with Kaiser executive Michelle Gaskill-Hames. During the meeting, Gaskill-Hames echoed Kaiser’s public statements, but Rivas, equipped with details about the strike, also delivered a letter of support signed by a majority of Assembly members. Rivas made clear the legislative backing for the strikers’ cause.

Additionally, a supportive letter from State Senate President Pro Tem Mike McGuire, backed by a majority of senators, is forthcoming.

Symbolic Gesture

The cardboard heart was a gesture to Kaiser, accompanied by a poem that critiqued the company's perceived lack of empathy. The poem drew parallels with "The Grinch," emphasizing the strikers' perseverance and commitment to patient care.

Financial Support

Applications for hardship funds are due by Friday night, with disbursement set for the following Friday. For more information on the disbursement rules, visit here, and to apply, use the application form.

Consider sharing donation links with your network to ensure adequate funds for disbursement, which are currently capped at $250 per week.

Picket Line Imagery

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