Dear Members of UFCW Local 152:

On this Labor Day, America will pause to reflect on the accomplishments of working people — people like you.

This day also day celebrates the Labor Movement, which has done more to advance the nation’s standard of living than all of the presidents and captains of industry who usually capture the public’s attention.

It is appropriate, therefore, to say a few words about the state of workers in the industries served by our union, UFCW Local 152, in these difficult times.

Unfortunately, the pain and stress we’ve all been feeling because of the COVID-19 pandemic has been made even worse by the current political turmoil. Through more than eight months of uncertainty, our members have stayed at their jobs, working as frontline heroes in supermarkets, healthcare facilities, manufacturing facilities, and other workplaces represented by our union.

Our union is justifiably proud of the many measures we negotiated with employers and government officials to protect these heroes on the front lines of our state’s economy.

We have also educated employers and the public on the importance of treating our members with the dignity and respect they deserve.

Currently, we are aggressively lobbying our employers to restore the “hero pay” that has been taken away from our members in the stores. We are pushing the point that you and your coworkers are braving the same dangers in September as you did in March.

We never forget that you are heroes today every bit as much as you were heroes then.

We are also urging employers and government agencies to properly enforce the use of masks by customers in retail settings, as well as protective barriers for employees and customers.

More than anything else, UFCW Local 152 wants you to be safe so you can come to work and earn a good living.

So, please keep following the current safety guidelines. When you are not at work, stay at home as much as possible and encourage your family and friends to do the same. And when you do go out, wear a face covering and keep a safe distance from other people, even your friends and neighbors. Keep washing your hands frequently, too.

We are living in unpredictable times as we continue to adapt to the “new normal” of COVID-19. Together, with dignity and courage, we will prevail. We raise our Labor Day flag and salute you, the fine members of Local 152. Our heroes.

Enjoy your Labor Day. You deserve it.

In Solidarity,

Brian String
President, UFCW Local 152