Bush foreign policy as a template for Wal-Mart unionization
As any long term reader of Page 132 will know, I'm no fan of Wal-Mart. I think they are the leading voice for a race to the bottom (line). My main bone of contention is how Wal-Mart uses its power. Their business model relies on their ability to be the only guy in town and to exploit that monopoly.With that background, excellent news comes out of Canada.
The B.C. Labour Relations Board (BCLRB) has certified a union at a Wal-Mart Tire & Lube Express (TLE) in Cranbrook, British Columbia after a majority of the workers there voted to unionize with UFCW Canada Local 1518....
It is the first time a majority of workers at a Wal-Mart location in Canada have voted to unionize and a sign that the tide is turning against Wal-Mart's union busting tactics according to UFCW Canada's national director Michael J. Fraser.
"Wal-Mart says that, given a chance to vote, their employees always reject the union. Those days are over," says Fraser.
I wonder if unions should start parrotting Bush's foreign policy to help generate public support for unions at Wal-Mart. Simply ask the question...why won't Wal-Mart let them vote? What are they scared of? If the workers don't want a union, they don't have to have one. If Iraqis can choose their own future, why can't the Wal-Mart greeter?
I can hear the rally chants now...Allow workers a vote! Allow workers a say! Allow workers freedom of choice!
The Waltons better get Robert Mugabe's PR team if they plan on keeping the unions out.
posted by Expat Teacher @ 7:10 AM
