Starbucks Workers Union: Rebuilding the Labor Movement from Below

On May 17th 2004, Starbucks baristas in New York City announced their affiliation with the Industrial Workers of the World (I.W.W.), one of the oldest unions in the United States. This set the stage for a global grassroots struggle between the baristas, united under the red flags of the legendary I.W.W., and the most ubiquitous symbol of corporate globalization in the world: Starbucks. Despite a vicious union-busting counteroffensive initiated by CEO Howard Schultz, six years later, the movement continues to gain momentum as Starbucks baristas around the world join the campaign.

Join us for a collection of videos documenting the victories of the Starbucks Workers Union. Following the video, rank-and-file Starbucks baristas will discuss the truth about life behind the counter in the corporate chains, and explain how their innovative Solidarity Unionism organizing model has enabled the I.W.W. to establish a foothold in the industry with the lowest union density in the United States.

Hosted by the Portland I.W.W. Phone: (503) 231-5488 Email: portland.iww [at] gmail.com