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Anti-Union Campaign Heats up at Starbucks

In the latest attempt to scare workers from joining the IWW Starbucks Workers Union, Starbucks has fired two union members in two different stores. Evan Winterscheidt, a 2 year employee at 14th st and 6th ave and Charles Fostrom at 57th st and Lexington ave. The Union demands the immediate reinstatement of both workers and an end to the illegal anti-union activities.

The IWW Starbucks Workers Union believes that these two firings are part of an on going anti-union campaign and is filing more unfair labor practices against the company. Although Starbucks has relentlessly tried to intimidate NYC baristas from joining the union, workers continue to organize for higher wages, consistent hours, respect at work and a better life on and off the job.

In the past two years Starbucks Coffee Company has been resisting efforts by workers to unionize in New York City. Since May of 2004 workers at multiple stores have joined the IWW Starbucks Workers Union in order to address their workplace issues. Workers are sick and tired of working for poverty paychecks while Starbucks profits soar. Starbucks claims to be a socially responsible company but their anti-union record shows otherwise. The company has been intimidating, harassing and violating the rights of workers who unite to address their workplace issues. Starbucks has a history of union busting across North America from Seattle to New York, from the roasting plants to the retail stores.

Evan Winterscheidt - Fired July 18, 2006

For two years, Evan Winterscheidt has been a model employee at the 14th & 6th Starbucks with a spotless record. Management claims Evan was fired over an incident that occurred between himself and a coworker on the evening of July 9, 2006. Video surveillance and a coworker’s eyewitness report demonstrate that Evan was not at
fault. Mr. Winterscheidt is only guilty of organizing his workplace.

Charles Fostrom - Fired July 11, 2006

Fellow Starbucks employee and union member Charles Fostrom, after pushing for better job security and store safety at Starbucks 57th & Lexington was fired for not willing to work off the clock. Management cites “insubordination” for Charles’ firing, but as in Evan’s case, we believe Charles is being persecuted for his strong support of the union.

ACT IN SOLIDARITY!

Call Starbucks and demand that Evan and Charles be reinstated immediately. Tell them you support a workers’ voice at work and to respect the federally protected right to organize

• Regional VP Jim McDermet @ 917-207-8660

• Regional Manager Wendy Beckman @ 917 692 3860

• Evan’s District Manager Allison Marx @ 917-330-4982

• Charles’ District Manager Veronica Park @ 201 970-1118

For more info visit www.starbucksunion.org