Candle Light Vigil for Striking Workers Calls on GW University to Repent

For Immediate Release:
February 17, 2010
Contact (DC Jobs with Justice): Ruth Castel-Branco: 202-489-2273 , rcastel@dclabor.org

FAITH, COMMUNITY HOLD VIGIL FOR STRIKING WINGS WORKERS,
CALL ON GW UNIVERSITY AND CLARK CONSTRUCTION TO REPENT

As many in the Nation's capital commemorate Ash Wednesday today, faith and community leaders will hold a candlelight vigil at George Washington University's Square 54 Project to call for a resolution to the Wings Workers' Strike.

Four months ago, workers from DC-based subcontractor Wings Enterprises Inc.--which performs concrete reinforcement on GW's Square 54 project for general contractor Clark Construction--walked out on strike in response to low pay, lack of health insurance and drinking water, and verbal abuse from management. In retaliation the company unlawfully terminated more than 30 employees.

"When we have asked for water, the company ignored our requests. When we asked for a sick day, the company punished us. When we asked for rest, the company abused us. When we asked for justice, the company fired us," said Felix Paz, one of the strikers from GW University's Square 54 project. "I believe that in the eyes of God we are all equal and these types of injustices do not please God."

Despite supportive words, George Washington University students are disappointed with the university's response. "Sadly, the administration has attempted to ignore the abuse and intimidation taking place under their watch," said Landon Elkind, a member of the Progressive Student Union. "As students, it's important to us that the workers building our facilities are treated fairly. We hope that President Knapp and general contractor Clark Construction will use this opportunity to repent and take action."

"As an institution committed to public service, including the fair treatment of people, George Washington University has the responsibility to ensure that workers on its job sites are treated fairly," added Joslyn Williams, President of the Metropolitan Washington AFL-CIO.

Meanwhile evidence of abuse continues to emerge and last month three Unfair Labor Practice charges were filed with the National Labor Relations Board against Wings Enterprises Inc.

"Wings, general contractors, developers and any entities that profit from the mistreatment of workers must be held accountable," concluded Rev Graham of Grace Episcopal Church. "Today, as we take stock of our transgressions, I ).

WHAT: A candlelight vigil at George Washington University's Square 54 Project, to call for a resolution to the Wings Workers' Strike.
WHEN: Wednesday, February 17th 2010. 4:00-6:00pm
WHERE: Corner of 23 and I St NW. Washington, DC
( In front of the Square 54 construction project and Foggy Bottom Metro).
WHO: DC Jobs with Justice, DC Workers Rights Board, Interfaith Worker Justice of Greater Washington, Justice At Wings Worker Support Committee, Metropolitan Washington Council AFl-CIO, Progressive Student Union,.
VISUALS: Posters, banners, candles.

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