The workers from Republic Window and Doors, who staged a sit-in at their factory in December 2008, pressed charges against their former employer on Jan. 6, 2009. The workers claim their collective bargaining rights were violated under the National Labor Relations Act and that Rich Gillman, the former president of Republic Windows and Doors, should be held liable for closing the factory illegally.
Republic’s former employees, along with United Electrical Workers Local 1110 representatives, gathered outside the offices of the National Labor Relations board in downtown Chicago to make their case and officially file charges.
The union also cites that Gillman didn’t act in good faith because the company simply moved the business, equipment and clients to an Iowa plant where the workers are paid significantly less.
“Gillman refused to inform workers and bargain with the union regarding his plans to move production to his new factory, Echo Windows, where he employs workers through a temporary agency at eight dollars per hour,” said field organizer Leah Fried.
The workers’ peaceful protest lasted six days. Their efforts proved successful as they recouped the vacation, severance and insurance pay owed to them.
“We workers want justice,” said Armando Robles, president of UE Local 1110. “That is why we are charging the owner of Republic Windows for moving the operations without discussing it with the union.”- gavin philip godfrey