ANSWER action in Florida extends solidarity to Republic workers

Protesters extend solidarity to workers occupying an auto parts plant in Chicago, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Dec. 10. Photo: Patrick Volcin

On Dec. 10, the ANSWER Coalition (Act Now to Stop War and End Racism) initiated protests in Fort Lauderdale and Orlando, Fla., in support of the Republic Windows and Doors workers who occupied their factory after it was closed down on Dec. 5.

The Fort Lauderdale protest drew over a dozen activists from Unite Here and AFSCME. People waiting for the bus also joined the protest, and cars honked in solidarity during the rush hour traffic on Broward Blvd. in front of a Bank of American branch. Activists passed out leaflets to bus passengers and car drivers stopped at traffic lights. Demonstrators marched several blocks with placards and signs reading, “Billions for B of A, $0 for workers” and “Bailout workers, not banks.” Bank of America would not extend credit to Republic Windows and Doors to pay the workers.

The protest at the the Bank of America branch at Kirkman Road in Orlando later marched to join a “Job with Justice” rally of AFSCME workers who were demonstrating as part of an organizing drive.