(CBS DETROIT) — As Teamster workers continue to strike , Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont joined the disgruntled workers at Marathon Petroleum’s Detroit refinery Sunday Evening.
Workers with Teamsters Local 283 are on strike for the first time in 30 years. They’re doing so because they say oil executives are maximizing profits at the expense of safety and morale. To keep its doors open, workers say Marathon has brought in non-union workers who are not qualified to operate the refinery and is paying them more than two times what unionized employees earn.
“You’ve got non-certified people doing your job because they want you to accept a 2.25% wage increase,” one worker said.
What the teamsters are now demanding are higher wages, better working conditions and a raise that keeps up with the cost of living. After taking part in the picket line, Sanders told the crowd of dozens of workers
“Corporation made 9 billion in profits, what they can’t give you a decent contract,” Sanders said. “Give me a break! And in terms of safety, you guys know the job. You’re certified you’re here to protect the community.”