Hundreds of ILWU Local 5 members working at Powell’s Books in Portland were laid off due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic that has forced many retail businesses to close temporarily. The company is not providing any severance, continuation of health coverage or other measures to help lessen the impact of the closure on workers.
In repose to the closure, Local 5 issued the following statement:
“In ILWU Local 5, the union representing Powell’s Books employees since 1999, appreciates the decision to close the retail locations of the bookstore. The safety of workers and customers is always of paramount concern, especially given the current global pandemic. As with most emergencies, those that suffer the most are workers and marginalized communities. We do not believe this to be appropriate or fair and in this moment we continue to urge all Employers, including Powell’s Books, to continue to support workers in any and every way possible.
The loss of profit is nothing compared to the lifelong trauma such a loss of income and benefits are likely to have for individuals. ILWU has a long time saying we live by: “An Injury to One Is An Injury To All”. We call upon all to make this moment count and support everyone in our community in every way we can.”
Local 5 members working at Aramark and Growing Seeds are also experiencing layoffs and some veterinary pet care workers are having their hours cut.
You can contribute directly to the ILWU Local 5 Coronavirus worker relief fund at https://bit.ly/2wXrYHh or by visiting the Local 5 website at https://ilwulocal5.com/