Oregon Teamsters Rally In Unity With Wisconsin, Ohio, Indiana

There might not be any anti-union legislation on the table in Oregon, but that didn’t stop Teamsters from every local in the state from standing up in solidarity with working people across the country.

More than 500 union supporters attended a rally Monday, March 7 in Salem, Ore., to denounce the nationwide war on workers and show support for public-sector employees under attack in Wisconsin, Ohio and other states.

“Everyone had a fundamental right to bargain a contract, regardless of who they are or where they live,” said Chris Muhs, Secretary-Treasurer of Local 324 in Salem. “We need to have unity everywhere.”

At the rally, Oregon Gov. John Kitzhaber promised to support pro-worker legislation. Muhs said he and others appreciated the sentiment, but took the words with a grain of salt.

“Like any politician, we have to hold Kitzhaber accountable,” Muhs said. “He made it clear that he is going to be asking for some concessions, but said he would do so at the table with dignity and respect. The working families who voted for Kitzhaber need to make sure he stays true to his word.”

Muhs said he feels a strong connection with working families across the country and is inspired by the national show of solidarity.

“I’m incredibly proud of how well we’ve come together with this issue. I think it’s a testament to the unity we have,” he said. “I think this is the beginning of wonderful new things for the Teamsters and other unions across this country.”