A month ago I wrote this
post about feuding unions in Vermont. In it I wrote:
This back and forth sniping does nothing to further the cause of the labor movement—it is in fact a detriment to organized labor and we should be above this. This is exactly what those who are against unions want us to do, fight each other, which weakens us all so that they can come in and pick the meat off of whatever is left of the carcass.
We need to stand together in solidarity—not fight each other.
Today it appears that the message has gotten through as SEIU 1199 released the following statement:
"SEIU has made the difficult decision today to withdraw its petition to represent 7,000 home care workers in Vermont. SEIU believes withdrawal from this election is in the best interest of everyone involved. It will allow homecare workers to focus on the issues that are important to them and prepare to bargain their first contract. SEIU heard from many providers that the election was creating a divisive atmosphere and distracting from the important issues that need to be resolved. As the nation’s largest homecare union, SEIU appreciates the need for workers and clients to work together in an atmosphere of unity and cohesion in order to succeed in raising standards for all.
We are proud of the contributions we have made over the past year and a half. We have spoken to thousands of Vermonters and their families about the need for unionization, and worked successfully in the 2013 legislative session to pass a law on behalf of Vermont homecare workers. SEIU supports the ongoing effort to unionize homecare providers and will encourage all of its supporters to vote for AFSCME. We offer AFSCME our full support in moving forward towards their eventual victory, and wish them the best in their future efforts as Vermont’s homecare union."
Solidarity!