Cargill Salt Workers Strike for Fair Contract over Unfair Practices

The Facts -

Sea Salt Workers Demand Fair Treatment Amidst Labor Dispute

(NEWARK, Calif.) – A labor strike is underway involving 120 members of Teamsters Local 853 at Cargill Salt in Newark, California. The workers have initiated the strike in response to what they describe as unfair labor practices by the company, including alleged retaliation against a union steward during ongoing contract negotiations.

The striking workers are advocating for a fair contract, focusing on crucial issues like wages and health insurance. They aim to negotiate a new agreement that adequately addresses their concerns.

Steve Beck, Secretary-Treasurer of Local 853, emphasized the importance of the workers in maintaining an essential supply chain. He stated, "A billion-dollar company has no excuse to cut the pay and benefits of its workers. We want Cargill to take our concerns seriously instead of retaliating against our members."

Cargill Salt's Newark facility is one of the rare sea salt operations in North America, where Teamsters are responsible for harvesting, processing, and packaging sea salt. The workers manage the entire production process, from gathering salt in evaporation ponds to producing finished products used for various purposes, including table salt and road de-icing.

Ever Duran, a Cargill Salt worker and Local 853 steward, highlighted the personal stakes involved for the workers. "For many of us, this is about supporting our families and planning for the future. We are the bedrock of the salt industry, and we just want a contract that fairly reflects that," he said. "It’s up to Cargill if they want to play ball and recognize how critical we are to their success."

Teamsters Local 853, which represents nearly 15,000 members across multiple industries in Northern California, continues to advocate for the rights and fair treatment of its members. For further details, visit teamsters853.org.

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