Municipal workers organized by
United Electrical Workers Local 222 are fighting back against social service
cuts and a pay freeze affecting public employees in Norwich, Conn. The campaign
seeks to build support among residents who depend on these vital programs.
The local government of this
post-industrial town relies heavily on money from the state to cover budget
shortfalls. Although the city gives out tax breaks and fee waivers that benefit
wealthy real estate developers, municipal workers have been forced to accept a
pay freeze two years in a row to prevent crippling layoffs.
During an economic crisis, the
ruling capitalist class attempts to shift the burden onto working and poor
people. While this has been done most prominently at the federal level with the
bailouts, even municipal governments in small towns like Norwich take part. Only
a militant fight-back movement can effectively combat budget cuts, pay freezes,
and any other attack on our quality of life.
