Will I lose my job if I go on strike?

You cannot be legally fired. You can be permanently replaced only if the strike is caused solely by economic issues and only after the actual hiring of a permanent replacement for your position. If the strike is called in part to protest unfair labor practices by the employer, the employer cannot legally hire a permanent replacement for you. In the unlikely event our unfair labor practice charge is not upheld, we will provide an update about the return-to-work situation.

What if the employer locks us out?

If the employer chooses to lockout employees they have to lockout all employees. Workers locked out by their employers are generally eligible for unemployment benefits. The Employment Security Department will determine eligibility for unemployment benefits on a case by case basis.

Can I get unemployment when on strike? Do I accrue sick leave or vacation time when on strike?

You will not accrue sick leave or vacation while you are on strike. The employment security department determines eligibility for unemployment benefits on as case by case basis for workers in a labor dispute.

Can I use accrued vacation or paid time off benefits?

Although an employer may not discriminate against strikers with respect to the use of vacation time or paid time off during a strike, an employer is not required to allow strikers to use their accrued vacation time or other benefits during a strike unless they are otherwise entitled to do so. Thus, if a worker had submitted a vacation request before a strike and it was approved in accordance with the employer’s established policies, the employer must pay the vacation benefits even though the approved vacation occurs while the member is on strike.

Will I still have healthcare during the strike?

It is possible that members on strike may experience a temporary disruption to their healthcare. You should work with your healthcare provider on details for eligibility.

What is my strike benefit?

Our union executive board has approved strike fund benefits of $500 per week for members who picket at least 20 hours per week. Our union also has a hardship fund to assist members whose families face particularly difficult financial situations. Make sure you sign in and out for every strike shift to get credit for shifts worked to qualify for your strike benefit.

What are my personal obligations if we go on strike?

Do not cross the picket line! Our Strike Remains Strong when workers are on respecting the picket line. Take your share of picket duty and/or strike activity. A strike is not a vacation; it is a very intensive, goal-oriented job. If you cannot attend your shift, it’s up to you to find someone to attend in your place. Pay attention and engaged on social media, meetings and any other communications from your team or UFCW 3000. Do not contribute to the rumor mill. Stay in contact with your colleagues. Help each other out in any way you are able. Discuss issues and continue a productive dialogue.

How many workers will it take for a strike to be effective?

A large active picket line is vital to a successful strike. Every member needs to participate to prevent the store from operating as usual. The more members we have out on the line, the harder it is for people to cross it. Being at the picket is also the best way to get the latest information on how the strike is going and to show the community that workers are united in the strike.

What are the consequences of crossing the picket line?

Crossing a picket line weakens workers power to win the change we need in negotiations, whether that is better wages, increases safety or holding the employer accountable to follow labor law. It also erodes the camaraderie in the workplace, could prolong the strike and negatively impacts our efforts to work as a team once the strike is settled.

How long would a strike last?

The duration of a strike is a strategic decision made by the bargaining team. The key to a successful strike is a united work force and support from our allies in the community.

Can I be fired for striking?

It is against the law for management to fire you because you exercise your legal right to strike.

If I am not yet a member of the Union, but am in the bargaining unit, can I go on strike?

Yes. All employees in the bargaining unit are represented by the Union. All employees, even those in their probationary period, have the legal right to strike and honor the picket line. Non-members within the bargaining unit have the same protection under the law as members do during a strike situation.

What are other workers allowed to do openly to support workers on strike?

We have the right to collective concerted union activity such as voicing our support and wearing buttons, stickers, or other visible solidarity. Please check the UFCW 3000 website for up-to-date information.

Can my friends and family join the picket line?

Yes! Our fight is our friends’, families’ and communities’ fight. However, they will be required to abide by the same rules of conduct expected of all bargaining unit members.  

Is there anything I can do to help before we go on strike?

Yes! Volunteer to help. Let your managers know how you feel about your team’s proposal. Always attend bargaining unit meetings and speak your mind.

EXTRA RESOURCES

We have strike Headquarters for each strike line and a 24/7 strike hotline. Visit the strike headquarters or call the strike hotline if you have any questions about the strike, concerns about your strike schedule or if you have any other questions about financial or other assistance.