rnrnOn Saturday afternoon, shopper at the Laurel, MD Walmart were treated to a surprise rendition of Aretha’s Franklin’s “Respect,” courtesy of Respect DC. More than 70 activist participated in the flash mob, urging Walmart to respect its workers and DC communities. The flash mob was led by members of the District Circus Marching Band, featuring Kristen Arant on drums and vocals. DC JwJ Student Action Project coordinator Isaiah Toney accompanied on sax and SongRise’s Vera Leone provided back-up vocals. rnrnMany associates at the Laurel store are members of the new associate-led Organization United for Respect at Walmart (OUR WALMART). Last month nearly 100 associates from across the country traveled to Bentonville, Arkansas to speak directly to company executives to ask for respect and dignity at jobs that pay fairly and guarantee workers a voice. They were able to speak with Senior Vice President, Global Labor Relations Karen Casey about their issues and concerns in the workplace while Casey made promises of no retaliation against those associates who were present.rnrnTo sign the petition to support Walmart Associates and their organizing campaign go to http://tinyurl.com/3fb7fsarnrnFor more information about the Respect DC campaign, visit www.respectdc.org.rnrnDon’t forget to “like” Respect DC on facebook:rnhttp://www.facebook.com/#!/RespectDCrnrnAnd “follow” us on twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/RESPECT_DC
