George Blakey is a Shop Steward who works as a driver at Republic Services. He is on our Union's bargaining committee.

My name is George Blakey. I am a Shop Steward and proud member of Teamsters Local 117 who works as a driver for Republic Services in the solid waste industry.

My co-workers and I are in the middle of a tough contract fight with our employer. On behalf of my fellow Teamsters and our families, I ask that you please sign a petition supporting us.

I haul away recycle and yard waste from businesses and customers who live in residential neighborhoods in and around Bellevue, WA.  

I encounter a lot of hazards on my route. I deal with rats, dirty diapers, and syringes in and around the cans, not to mention the dangerous equipment we operate. Maybe that’s why our job is consistently listed as one of the ten most dangerous jobs in America. 

I work hard to support my family and want to be treated with respect.

Right now that’s not happening. In contract negotiations, Republic is pitting Teamster against Teamster, recycle drivers against garbage drivers. 

Even though we drive the same routes, wear the same uniforms, and work side by side with our fellow Teamsters who haul away the garbage, we are significantly worse off when it comes to our health coverage, our retirement security, and our pay.

We typically work longer hours than the garbage drivers and are just as responsible for keeping our streets and our neighborhoods clean.  

My co-workers and I - both recycle and garbage - are standing together to demand equal treatment for equal work.

Please take a moment to support me and my fellow drivers at Republic. Sign our online petition demanding equal treatment for equal work in the solid waste industry.

Thank you for your support!