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Why we wear red
In 1989, CWA was on strike again at Bell Atlantic. It lasted 18 days. We still enjoy many of the protections that were achieved during that successful strike. It provided the language which assured us all the work in the outside plant associated with the fiber network.
On August 15, 1989, Gerry Hogan, Chief Steward of CWA Local 1103, was killed. His death was a result of being run down by a "scab" during the strike.
In CWA's long history, he is the only member to be killed walking the picket line.
We asked all our members to wear RED on Thursdays to remind the Company of the blood they had spilled and to show support for our fallen brother. The idea started small and quickly spread across the nation. It was simple yet effective.
A strike is never easy. It is always our last resort.
It affects not just us, but our families as well. The Company looks at a strike as "business as usual" and in an impersonal manner.
We all have personal lives and beliefs. In the workplace, every member needs to share the same goals for better wages, benefits, job security and respect.
No company can take away the wages and benefits that we have fought so hard to achieve. Our solidarity will continue to make these companies prosperous and provide good jobs for generations to come.
Solidarity is not just an idea. It is a belief that together we can protect and improve our way of life. We must stand united.
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