Smithfield Rally
Williamsburg Virginia
LUPA 3520\Jeff Hicks

Hundreds of UAW members; joined thousands of other Union members in Williamsburg VA, to show support to Smithfield Employees on their efforts to form a Union.

UAW Region 8 sent bus loads of UAW Members; sponsored by UFCW, to help spread the word to the nation of the importance of a voice in the workplace. Region 8 Civil/Human Rights President Ricky McDowell coordinated this massive migration of support. Buses were dispatched from all locations of the region and transported members to Williamsburg to help spread the word.

Ricky and numerous of other speakers; including NC NAACP President Rev. William Barber, opened the day at the Historic First Baptist Church. Ricky’s speech to the members in the crowded church, gave the Smithfield workers faith that the UAW will stand behind them until they get their Union.

During the ceremony, Smithfield workers were recognized and various Unions were pointed out for their efforts in the Smithfield movement. There were given testimonials from the workers of Smithfield, which really moved the captive audience. After a good meal, the Protestors were ready for the trek to the shareholder’s meeting with their signed Petitions.

The Union Members lined the historic streets and let the people know exactly what Smithfield was all about. With chants and cadences, the members marched over a mile to their destination. With the police in full force, the members held their heads high and yelled “UNION, UNION and JUSTICE, JUSTICE”!!!! Despite a mild heat, the protestors young and old stood together and marched together, in one big show of SOLIDARITY for the workers of Smithfield. After a final Pep Rally in the park, the members boarded their buses and headed back to their hometowns. MISSION COMPLETE!!!!!!!!!