#United States #Long Beach #Costco Teamsters #Sean O'Brien #Fred Zuckerman

Costco Teamsters Rally for Fair Contract in Long Beach

On Tuesday, December 10, 2024, the Costco Teamsters, led by General President Sean M. O'Brien and General Secretary-Treasurer Fred Zuckerman, will gather for a crucial rally in Long Beach, California. This mobilization marks the beginning of national negotiations that will affect approximately 18,000 Costco workers across the country.

The rally takes place at Teamsters Local 848, located at 3888 Cherry Ave, from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM PST. The event aims to bring to light the ongoing concerns regarding Costco’s labor practices as the expiration of the current national master agreement approaches on January 31, 2025.

Increasing Tensions Amid Corporate Changes

Despite Costco's image as a worker-friendly corporation, a noticeable shift has occurred within the company’s corporate governance. Recent actions by Costco have led the Teamsters to take a stand by filing charges against the company for violating federal labor laws and undermining the established collective bargaining processes. The Teamsters argue that Costco has increasingly prioritized the interests of Wall Street shareholders over its employees, compromising workers' rights and benefits.

Although the company has historically maintained a reputation for fair labor practices, many Costco employees are concerned about deteriorating conditions and a lack of support in contract negotiations. The Teamsters are calling for changes that protect workers' rights and ensure fair treatment within the company, aiming to prevent any further decline in labor standards.

The Call to Action

During the rally, attendees will engage in chants and hold signs bearing the message, "Pro Worker? Prove It!", emphasizing their demand for genuine commitment to employee welfare. Leaders such as Chris Griswold, Vice President At-Large and Joint Council 42 President, will address the attendees, highlighting the need for solidarity among workers as they navigate the upcoming negotiations.

In preparing for this event, the Teamsters underscore the importance of collective action in achieving transformative change within the corporate landscape of Costco. The rally serves not only as a platform for expressing grievances but also as a unifying moment for labor advocates committed to the cause.

Future of Labor Relations at Costco

The stakes are high as negotiations commence, and the outcome is expected to set a precedent for future labor relations at Costco. The Teamsters are determined to confront the company's current trajectory and urge all members and supporters to stand firm in their commitment to secure a fair contract that reflects the hard work and dedication of its employees.

As the rally approaches, the Teamsters invite community members, labor supporters, and media personnel to join them in raising awareness and support for the rights of Costco employees. The message is clear: Costco employees deserve a fair contract, and the Teamsters will continue to fight until their demands are met.

Join the movement and support the Costco Teamsters as they rally for a brighter, fairer future for all workers!