Dozens of employees at Manhattan’s famous Strand Bookstore have gone on strike after failed contract negotiations with management. This marks the first strike in nearly 30 years at the bookstore. Workers, represented by UAW Local 2179, are demanding a fair contract and a living wage, with many stating they struggle to make ends meet in New York City.
The employees are asking for a $2 increase to their $16 an hour base pay, which management has so far countered with a 50 cent increase. The workers are urging customers to support their strike by not buying from the store.
While the executives of the store have stated they have made significant economic offers during the negotiations, the union has not been willing to accept them. Despite the dispute, both sides express a desire to come to an agreement and see the employees return to work soon.
The strike comes during one of the busiest times of the year for the bookstore, but the employees are standing their ground in the hopes of securing better pay and working conditions. With the support of their union and the solidarity of their fellow workers, the employees of Strand Bookstore are determined to fight for fair treatment and compensation.
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