Brian Fisher

The canyon between the haves and the have-nots has never been wider than the time we are living in right now. The super-rich influence many aspects of the lives of everyday workers. What we read, what we buy, how we vote: they have a hand in it all.

Unions, however, possess one of the strongest tools to fight this income gap; laws enacted by FDR in the 1930s ensured that workers had the right to fight back. Our country was going through a similar wealth inequality gap at that time. And so history repeats itself. And unions must now take the gloves off and fight as they did in the 30s for their members’ livelihoods.

Teamsters Local 853 Members at Westlake Royal Stone Solutions

This wealth inequality is playing out in real time with Teamsters Local 853 members at Westlake as they stand on the line, day after day, night after night. 150 workers from a group of 260 have been on strike for over 4 months. Since July 24th, incredibly, the number of members on the line has actually increased. These members have unbelievable unity and determination.

So who is Westlake?

Westlake Royal Stone Solutions is a large business unit within Westlake Royal Building Products.

Third-party business directories consistently classify it at roughly 1,001–5,000 employees and estimate US$1–10 billion in annual revenue for the stone division. 

Its parent, Westlake Corporation, is much larger: about 16,000 employees worldwide across all segments (chemicals, building products, etc.).

So this multi-billion-dollar company is holding these members hostage. Refusing to negotiate in good faith for eight months before they forced these members to strike. The sticking points? EVERYTHING! These workers do all the hard work that makes this company successful. So what did Westlake offer for this work? A 1% raise and no improvements on any benefits like health care, pension, or 401 (k). At a time when corporate profits everywhere are soaring.

Westlake’s message to these workers is clear: You’ll take what we give you; you’re lucky we are willing to give you anything at all.

Greedy, heartless companies like Westlake will continue to exploit their employees unless we stand up and say ENOUGH!!

So to all of our members and our Union Sisters and Brothers everywhere, please join us in support of these workers in their fight. Teamsters Local 853 members all deserve the simple dignity of a good wage, fair benefits, and job protections that mean a real shot at a livelihood. Not just a meager paycheck doled out by an exploitive corporation.

Teamsters Local 853 also wants to express our deep gratitude to the Joint Council 7 and all the locals who have put in time and energy to support these members. Those who come out and walk the line and show these members that they are not alone. The rally of support by our greater Teamster community was what originally kicked off this strike. That rally showed the support these members have, which helps keep them going strong.

For over four months, these members haven’t blinked,” said Teamsters Local 853 Secretary Treasurer Steve Beck. “Think about that! What it takes to walk that line every day and every night, so that you can make a better life for you and your family.” Steve continued, “If you are looking for courage and integrity, then look to these members. We pledge to use every tool of power at our disposal to fight with them until they win.” “And that is going to be a day to celebrate!”