#United States #Teamsters #Various #Labor Union #Airgas

Teamsters Intensify Nationwide Strike Against Airgas

In a significant escalation of labor actions, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters has broadened its nationwide strike against Airgas, involving hundreds of workers across more than 15 facilities in 11 states. The strike, initially sparked by dissatisfaction with the company's treatment of workers, is now a crucial stand for employee rights, as picket lines extend from California to New Jersey and beyond.

Juan Campos, Vice-President At-Large of the Teamsters, expressed the frustration felt by members, stating, "Airgas has failed to treat our members with the dignity and respect they deserve." He emphasized that the current situation could have been avoided had Airgas engaged in good faith negotiations. Instead, the company's actions—characterized by stalling and disrespect—have provoked further unrest among workers.

The Teamsters' fight comes amid serious allegations against Airgas, including multiple unfair labor practice charges. For months, the company has refrained from entering meaningful discussions about worker contracts. Recently, incidents involving the use of unidentified chemical agents against picketing Teamsters in locations like Peoria, Illinois, have escalated concerns, prompting fears of intimidation and violence against those lawfully asserting their rights.

With the situation escalating, Shawn Diaz, a seasoned Airgas employee and Local 701 shop steward in New Jersey, voiced the resolve of the striking workers: "They think they can scare us into backing down, but they're wrong. We're united, we're not going anywhere, and we're ready to do whatever it takes to win the fair contract we deserve."

The Teamsters are not standing alone in this battle; Local 996 in Honolulu, Hawaii, is gearing up to join the strike in response to ongoing unfair labor practices by Airgas. The multinational corporation, which reported profits exceeding $3.8 billion last year as a subsidiary of Air Liquide, is facing a formidable show of solidarity from Teamsters nationwide. As workers honor picket lines across the country, Airgas is on the verge of experiencing a major disruption to its operations.

As the strike unfolds, Robert Schuller, a driver at Airgas and a member of Local 507 in Cleveland, reaffirmed the collective determination of the workers: "Airgas started this fight, and we're going to finish it. Our Teamsters brothers and sisters across the country are standing with us, and we're turning up the heat. It's time for this multibillion-dollar company to take us seriously and put a real contract on the table."

Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents approximately 1.3 million dedicated workers across the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. For more insights and updates about their ongoing struggles and campaigns, visit Teamster.org and follow the organization on social media platforms including Twitter and Facebook.