SAN JOSE, Calif. — As they entered the third week of their strike here, members of Amalgamated Transit Union Local 265 voted by 83% to reject the latest offer by the Valley Transportation Authority March 24. The vote reflects widespread disagreement with the terms of the offer, as well as deep anger at the disrespect being shown to them by the bosses.
The strikers shown above, Rafael Arguello, left, and Guadalupe Zavala, are at the sign-in table at one of the many picket sites throughout the county. The sign, “Beware! Uneducated Worker at Work!” is mocking a statement by VTA Assistant General Manager Greg Richardson, who called the union members “uneducated.” Arguello, who is a driver as well as trainer for new drivers, told the Militant this disrespect made him angry, given the many challenges bus drivers face.
The strikers — bus drivers, light-rail operators, mechanics and office workers — had been slated to vote on an earlier contract offer March 22. But when it became clear workers might vote it down, the VTA had the vote postponed. Then, while offering a tiny wage increase, they introduced new takeaways on overtime pay and attendance.
Strikers on the picket line March 24 after voting told this Militant worker-correspondent that they are determined to maintain strong picket lines as long as it takes.