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To All Local 1-S members:

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We’d like to start by saying that we hope that this communication finds you and your families safe and well during this challenging time, and to let you know that our fight to protect your rights is ongoing. We are actively working to ensure the best possible agreements in regards to your safety, the furlough and our upcoming contract negotiations.

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As most of you are aware, our current contract expired on May 1st with an automatic 45 day extension bringing us to June 15. In the normal course of events the negotiations process would have begun by now. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has presented us with unique challenges that no one could have predicted. The fact that the stores are closed and our membership placed on furlough is one of the challenges. We believe that negotiating now, not knowing when or under what circumstances the stores will reopen, makes no sense. There are just too many unknowns as far as post-pandemic retail is concerned.

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In light of these facts, we proposed extending our contract for a year. The Company declined citing the number of contracts they have to negotiate next year. We conferred with our brothers and sisters at Local 3 (Bloomingdales) whose contract expires next year and they agreed to extend their contact for a year.

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The Company still said no.

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We proposed a 6 month extension.

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The Company said no.

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It would seem that for a reasonable request from the workers that helped make the Company what it is, the answer is NO.

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For the July 4th fireworks, great advertising, which will bring large groups of people together during a highly contagious pandemic, the answer is YES! Go figure.

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Finally, we said let’s bargain in May. Let’s start with:

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1. Employee Safety (first and foremost)

2. Covid/Pandemic Response

3. Employee Recall

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Then, in June, the regular CBA (contract) issues can be discussed with an extension until August 15. The Company declined once again, only offering an extension until June 30.

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They think they have have us “over a barrel”. They’ve underestimated Local 1-S. They’ve underestimated the RWDSU, UFCW and the entire labor movement. They’ve underestimated YOU! It’s up to each and every one of us to show our resolve and get the contract we deserve. Every member’s participation is vital. Take the union survey to let us know your health and safety concerns. Make sure that we have your cellphone number and email address, please send it to Melina@local1srwdsu.com. Stay tuned to Local 1-S Macy’s Workers on Facebook and local1srwdsu on Instagram for updates. 

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We will take it to the public, we will take it to the press and we will take it to the streets if we have to. We had originally scheduled to exchange proposals with the Company on May 20, with an opening session slated for May 26, but these meetings are now being rescheduled due to an unforeseen emergency. We’ll keep you informed and updated of new dates. Remember that we’re stronger together! United we bargain, divided we beg!

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