New Seasons Labor Union stands completely behind the Palestinian people. The ongoing killing in Gaza and the surrounding area has extinguished the lives of 13,000 human beings since October 7th. 90% of those killed are Palestinian. NSLU solemnly joins ranks with countless workers and organizations across the labor movement in demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. We also know that actions speak louder than words.

As a democratic organization, our Union’s priorities are set by the membership alone. On November 2nd, the assembled members voted to sponsor a rally with Jewish Voice for Peace PDX and other organizations in support of the ceasefire demand. At that same meeting, a member brought forward a resolution more generally in support of the Palestinian people. After debate and amendment, the resolution passed unanimously. The full text of the resolution, as amended, can be read on our website at https://nslu.org/2023-11-2-resolution-1

Recently, one of our coworkers was asked by management to remove a Palestinian flag button at work. On Nov 16th, New Seasons sent an email to union members saying that our support of Palestinians and our public call for a ceasefire do not reflect the view of the company. We are disappointed that the company’s reaction to this catastrophic violence fails to center the hundreds of people being killed every single day in Gaza.

Our coworker refused to remove his button, with the union behind him. Whether directed against oppressed nationalities or at any other fundamental characteristic of any human being, discrimination has no place in our Union, in our workplace, or in our world. We support Palestinian self-determination and an end to the racist apartheid system in Israel. As union members we recognize that every human being deserves to live a life of peace and dignity regardless of where they live and where they work.

Solidarity Forever,

NSLU Communications Committee