In the News June 26

Workers Organize in Defence of Their Rights

Buffalo Starbucks Union Organizers Demand Reinstatement

Starbucks workers in Buffalo were the first to secure a union, an independent one organized by them, Starbucks Workers United. The Starbucks on Elmwood Avenue in Buffalo was the first location in the chain to unionize, in December 2021. Since then, other Buffalo stores and more than 160 Starbucks across the country have voted to unionize, according to the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB).

In Buffalo, seven workers from different stores were fired for their organizing efforts and are demanding reinstatement. One woman, for example, organized a store that unionized March 23 and was fired April 1. As part of their struggle, complaints have been made to the NLRB of unfair labor practices by Starbucks, including the firing and intimidation of organizers.

Given Starbucks insists “these claims are false,” for New York, the NLRB has now filed a complaint with the courts with more than 200 charges of unfair labour practices by Starbucks. The NLRB is asking the judge to reinstate the fired Buffalo workers and put an immediate stop to the unfair labour practices. Otherwise, given the court process can take months, the NLRB says waiting would take too long to remedy the violations. The court case is scheduled for July 11.

Among the examples are actions by Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz. Unionization drives were underway at multiple Buffalo Starbucks locations. Schultz announced that all Starbucks employees were getting new benefits – including expanded training, improved sick leave and credit card tipping – but that stores with active union efforts would be excluded. Starbucks also sent new managers to discourage union activity, closed stores with active union drives and fired organizers.

The court filing by the NLRB could have effects across the country. If the judge rules in favour of the NLRB, Starbucks would have to immediately stop the anti-union activity at all stores. It would also be required to recognize and bargain with the Starbucks Workers United union.

Starbucks workers in Buffalo, Memphis and elsewhere are continuing to organize and fight for their rights, including joining protests for the rights of all. One such event was the recent Poor People’s March in Washington, DC. The action denounced poverty wages and demanded rights to a livelihood, housing, health care, education and the right to be as human beings.

(Voice of Revolution)

Workers’ Forum, posted June 27, 2022.