BUFFALO, N.Y. — Workers at Elmwood Taco and Subs won their union election last week and are back on strike again this week.
The workers are protesting against what they call the company's "illegal union-busting campaign" after their hours were cut back drastically
After originally filing to unionize on October 24, ETS' management responded with drastic changes against the union activity like scheduling their full time employees to only two days a week. This caused some employees to be unable to pay for rent or buy groceries according to the recent release.
Some workers alleged management cut workers' hours, surveilled union activity, and held mandatory anti-union captive audience meetings.
“ETS workers are going on strike because of the union-busting, the harassment, the drastic cut in hours, and unfair treatment in general. We’re going on strike and using our voices to hopefully win this thing and let other people know that it’s not okay to be talked down to or belittled by your employers,” said Abel Lopez, an ETS worker and union leader in a press release.
The workers union filed charges against management over its illegal anti-union behavior with the National Labor Relations Board in response, but no changes have been made.
"We will continue to stand up for what’s right and protect workers from unfair treatment," said Lopez.
Employees had hoped that winning the election would bring them to the bargaining table with respect to the results and an end to the union-busting campaign.
Other employees, like Violet Sequin, said she would have liked to continue working at ETS if a contract could be negotiated in good faith after winning the election
“We want to work here and we want what’s best for everyone, including new hires," Sequin said.
Employees say they will go on strike until their hours are brought back.