UNION CITY, Calif.—Francisco Ramirez brought his horse to help strengthen the picket line here Dec. 10 outside the American Licorice Company plant. Local 125 of the Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers International Union is fighting to maintain their health care benefits.

“We have worked hard so that the company could grow. Now they want to make money by taking away our benefits,” said Ramirez, who has worked at the plant for 17 years.

“We are here for the long haul,” said Rene Castillo, vice president of BCTGM Local 125. “We are staying strong. We are going to spend Christmas Eve here. We hope all of the other unions can come out and support us.”

The pickets are up 24 hours a day and are being reinforced by family members and supporters from other unions. A strike kitchen has been set up.

—ERIC SIMPSON