On June 1, sixty-five members of BCTGM Local 1 in Chicago initiated a strike at the Teasdale Latin Foods facility located in Hoopeston, Illinois. This facility is part of Teasdale Foods, which produces canned beans and hominy, sauces, spices, and tortillas across various plants nationwide.
The workers on strike are responsible for canning, packing, and distributing an assortment of beans under the Teasdale brand as well as store brands such as Walmart, Giant, Aldi, and Jewel.
The striking workers are opposing proposed changes related to scheduling and management rights. They are also against the outsourcing of jobs and a suggested shift to a two-tier compensation system.
“Scheduling is a big issue,” stated Rochelle Ross, Local 1 Recording Secretary/Business Agent. “The members currently work ten hours over four days per week and use that fifth day for personal needs or medical appointments.” Ross explained that the company aims to alter this schedule to eight hours over five days weekly—a change not favored by the workers.
Additionally, the company plans to outsource union jobs and revert to an older two-tier wage system. “They want to totally change the working conditions in the plant,” said Ross. “Returning to that is a non-starter.”
BCTGM International President Anthony Shelton expressed support for the striking union members with a statement:
“Like so many of our employers, Teasdale is owned by a private equity company that has lost touch with the hardworking men and women at the heart of the company’s success.”
“I commend our BCTGM Local 1 brothers and sisters for holding their ground for what they and their families deserve—and urge our Local Unions and fellow members to offer solidarity and support for them however possible.”
“The BCTGM International Union will support the workers at Teasdale in Hoopeston for as long as it takes to achieve a fair contract.”
