MARTINEZ, Calif. — Members of United Steelworkers Local 5 at Marathon Petroleum’s Martinez Renewables plant here are holding the line as they enter the second month on strike. Their picket line was expanded on Memorial Day by strikers’ families and members of other unions, organized by the Contra Costa Labor Council.
A coalition of East Bay public school teachers from 22 union locals provided fresh grilled tacos, while a representative of the California Federation of Labor Unions led the picket line outside the refinery. Special “Solidarity Monday” pickets are set to continue every week until the union wins a new contract.
There had been no negotiations since workers walked out April 27, but Marathon has now agreed to meet with union representatives May 27.
Workers on the picket line say the plant is being run at a minimal level by managers and engineers.
More solidarity is needed! Build the “Solidarity Mondays” and visit the picket line any time, 24/7, at the intersection of Solano Way and Arnold Industrial Way. Send contributions to the strike fund to USW Local 5, at P.O. Box 349, Martinez, CA 94553-0034.