Last Friday, after weeks of meetings and continued negotiations, our brothers and sisters at Impark had a huge victory as all six workers who were improperly terminated in December were returned to work.

“We didn’t have a grievance procedure or even just-cause protections,” said President John Scearcy. “We achieved justice through action and solidarity.”

Through leafleting actions to the general public, calls to Seattle Mayor Ed Murray’s office, numerous meetings, and the unanimous decision to authorize a strike, the workers at Impark displayed that they are a powerful force.  

Meseret Ruga, one of the six workers who were improperly terminated and a leader among her co-workers, was feeling good about returning to work today after nearly two months without work.  “Everyone was happy!  Through the support from our co-workers and the union, we got everything.  There are no words, I’m just really happy,” said Ruga.

"There are no words, I’m just really happy.” - Meseret Ruga

All six workers will return to work this week with back pay to compensate for their lost time.  There will be internal leafleting to inform the workers at Impark about this huge victory.  Additionally, Seattle City Councilmember Kshama Sawant is writing a letter of support to the Impark workers.  In the letter, she congratulates the workers on their efforts, and encourages them to keep it up! 

We are still in the midst of contract bargaining with Impark, and through continued solidarity and pressure on the company, we will win another victory for better wages and fair working conditions!