Hundreds of workers at the Philadelphia International Airport are not waiting
until the Democratic National Convention to make their demands for a $15
minimum wage known. The employees said they plan to walk off the job Tuesday.
The picketing baggage
handlers, cabin cleaners, wheelchair attendants and other workers have claimed
several airline subcontractors are actively working against their efforts to
unionize.
Tuesday's demonstration, coming days before the DNC is
set to begin, is meant to draw attention to the subcontractors' alleged
intimidation tactics and keep the flame burning for the "Fight for
$15" at PHL. The gathering will take place at Terminal A West departures,
according to organizers.
The employees voted to strike Wednesday,
a week after winning a years-long battle to get all of PHL's subcontractors to
pay a $12 hourly wage, according to SEIU 32BJ union, which has contributed to
the employees' organization efforts. The $12 rate became a city mandate this
year per the use and lease agreement
former Mayor Michael Nutter signed in 2015.
Demonstrations by the workers are still expected during
the DNC – a move some may question considering the Democrats have declared
their support for a higher living wage.
Source: Philadelphia
Business Journal
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