We start by listening and we’ll have an opportunity to do just that on Sunday, February 27th. On that day we will be hosting an adult discussion time at 9:30 a.m. in our Dining Room. Our guests… will include Kathleen Shea, New Sanctuary Movement Coordinator from Voces de la Frontera and Vicko Alvarez, a local community organizer who has been working with the striking workers from Palermo Pizza. We also hope to have with us one of these workers who can share of their own experience.
This story has been in the news since last June when a group of workers went on strike protesting dangerous working conditions as well as the company’s attempts to keep them from organizing a union. This strike has taken on national implications and this will be a good opportunity to hear first hand why the strike took place and why it is still ongoing.
You might be wondering why we’re hosting a forum like this. Here’s why, within the Social Principles of the United Methodist Church we find this statement; “We support the right of all public and private employees and employers to organize for collective bargaining into unions and other groups. Further, we support the right of both parties to protection in so doing…” Likewise, our Social Principles states “We affirm the right of all persons (including immigrants) to equal opportunities for employment, access to housing, health care, education, and freedom from social discrimination.” We also support the right of employees to exist in a safe work environment.
Obviously not all of us are going to be in total agreement with these or any other stances the church may take from time to time but it is important to know how our denomination views issues such as these. My hope is you will take time on February 27th to come with an open mind, willing to listen and learn.
Blessings,
Pastor Andy