#United States #Keurig Dr Pepper #Teamsters Local 896 #Victorville

Teamsters Local 896 Strike at Keurig Dr Pepper

In a significant stand for labor rights, members of Teamsters Local 896 at the Keurig Dr Pepper (KDP) facility in Victorville, California, have initiated a strike motivated by unfair labor practices. Approximately 150 workers are fighting not only for improved wages but also for the payment of an unpaid arbitration award, as highlighted by Phil Cooper, the Secretary-Treasurer of Local 896.

The crux of the matter lies in KDP's alleged illegal efforts to terminate its sick time policy, for which a court ordered the company to pay hundreds of thousands of dollars last year. Despite this ruling, employees claim that they have yet to receive any compensation. Cooper emphasized that this situation clearly violates federal law, asserting, "We will be out here every day, 24 hours a day, until KDP pays its workers what they are legally owed."

This strike coincides with ongoing negotiations between the union and KDP for a new contract. A recent offer from the company was overwhelmingly rejected by the union members, who found the proposed increases in pay and pension benefits to be insufficient.

Adan Soto, a forklift operator lead at KDP and a member of Local 896, expressed the sentiments of many workers, stating, "We have given everything to this company — our time, our health, our labor. Instead of respect, the company stole our sick time and we're still fighting for the wages we deserve. A good contract would mean stability for my family and dignity for all of us who keep this place running. That’s why we're on strike."

The significance of this strike is compounded by the recent successes of Teamsters at another KDP location in Ottumwa, Iowa, where workers secured a substantial pay increase and improved healthcare coverage following their strike. This victory boosts the resolve of the Teamsters Local 896 as they advocate for fair treatment and compensation for their members.

Founded more than 75 years ago, Teamsters Local 896 has been committed to fighting for working-class families in Southern California. The current strike underscores the ongoing struggle for fair labor practices in the industry, highlighting the enduring nature of labor movements in America.

For those interested in supporting or learning more about the Teamsters movement, additional information can be found at teamsterslocal896.org.

As the situation in Victorville develops, it remains to be seen how KDP will respond and whether the workers' demands will be met. The strikers are determined to continue their fight until they receive the wages and benefits they rightfully deserve, and they emphasize their dedication to protecting their rights and those of future generations in the workforce.