The unionists have conducted spirited daytime pickets in front of the factory where they produce designer handbags that sell for thousands of dollars. No one has crossed the picket line so far, the pickets report.

Strikers on the picket line say it can take up to a week to make just one bag. The most common job is as a “beader,” attaching thousands of tiny ornaments to each bag.

“We are on strike for more money and more benefits,” said Eliany Cruz, a beader with eight years’ seniority who makes $8 per hour. “The strike is important for us. If we win, we can keep our jobs. They want to outsource our jobs. Of course we will win.”

The current four-year contract expired in April, said strikers. The company now wants a one-year agreement.

Sonia Dejesus, a beader with seven years’ seniority, said she is currently making $8.46 per hour. Starting workers earn little more than the $5.15 per hour minimum wage. “We want more money,” Dejesus told the Militant. “They offered just 35 cents an hour more over one year. We also need better vacation and health benefits.” Children and spouses of workers are not covered under the health plan in the current contract, strikers said.  
 
 
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