Local Unions and Politicians Offer Support to Locked-Out Steelworkers

Over 30 union and labor organizations offered their support to local steelworkers rallying outside the Allegheny Ludlum Plant on East Rodney French Blvd. Tuesday evening.

The workers have been locked out of the facility since August 15th and continue to demand a fair contract.

Negotiations were severed after their previous contract expired at the end of June.

SWU Local 1357 Vice President Donald Rei says management hasn't spoken to them since they were turned away from their jobs.

As the crowd marched on the plant, they attempted to speak to management twice as they rang the bell to the main entrances. There was no response.

Rei also says union members are in this for the long-haul.

"The employees are strong. We're prepared, we're ready, we'll stay here one day longer."

Support came from all across the city as members from the New Bedford Firefighters Union, New Bedford Police Union, New Bedford Educators Association, Longshoreman's Union Local ILA 1413, and dozens of other representatives.

Local politicians including Mayor Jon Mitchell, State Representative Antonio Cabral, City Councilors Joe Lopes, Brian Gomes, Jim Oliveira, Dana Rebeiro, Steve Martins, and perspective candidates were also on hand to share their support for the local steelworkers.

Rei says union leaders are scheduled to meet with a federal mediator and company representatives September 11th - 12th.