Starbucks Workers Nationwide Launch Strike Demanding Fair Contracts
BALTIMORE,MD – Starbucks workers across the United States initiated a nationwide strike today,demanding a fair contract from the company. The walkout, organized by Starbucks Workers United, centers on issues of pay, benefits, and safe working conditions, with rallying cries of “No contract, no coffee, no scabs.”
The strike comes as workers allege the company has stalled negotiations despite CEO Brian Nichol publicly stating a willingness to engage with the union. Tony Schultz,a striking worker,stated,”Our newest CEO,Brian Nichol,did say he’d be willing to speak with the union,speak with our union,rather,that just hasn’t come to fruition. And the ball is in their court.They’re welcome to come back to the table at any time to discuss these things. And they have just consistently not done that.”
Workers are also highlighting the financial strain faced by those injured on the job. Sebastian Maris shared the story of a friend who sustained a head injury at work, requiring five staples, but declined a CT scan due to cost concerns. “I have a very dear friend…They load and unload trucks for a living last week they messaged me to tell me that they had hit their head on a loading door…they told me that they weren’t going to get the scan because they couldn’t afford it,” maris said, expressing anger at a system where workers fear seeking medical attention for fear of job loss.
The strike aims to pressure Starbucks to return to the negotiating table and address worker concerns. Supporters are encouraged to participate in a boycott of Starbucks stores during the strike, thru a pledge known as the “No Contract, No Coffee” campaign.
as the strike concludes, workers vowed to continue their fight, chanting, “We’ll be back! We’ll be back!” Starbucks Workers United represents employees at over 360 stores nationwide, seeking to collectively bargain for improved working conditions and compensation.
