Vol. 78/No. 28 August 4, 2014
This check for $187.05 is a safety and attendance bonus I received from where I work, a large plant organized by the United Auto Workers. This time the company added a criteria of “housekeeping.” The department I work in got money knocked off for dirt found on top of handrails and the lockers. In a show of “concern” for our safety, some departments make workers stand during the safety talks because they say we don’t pay attention.
Carpal tunnel injuries are common. One worker who is still on pain medication after carpal tunnel surgeries in both wrists and who cannot lift over two pounds is back to work on “light duty.” As a new hire I am a “supplemental” worker with no vacation or holiday pay and no medical insurance. I pay union dues but the company says the union can’t represent me if I am fired.
I contribute this blood money to the Socialist Workers Party to help build a working-class movement that fights for the interests of the working class.
— EMMA JOHNSON