On December 22, 2023, 49 workers at Empower Solar in Bethpage, New York, overwhelmingly voted to join UAW Local 259. The organizing victory was achieved even though the company hired lawyers and lobbyists to thwart workers’ unionization efforts.
Instead of respecting workers’ decisions, Empower continues to destroy unions. On December 29, the company unilaterally fired 40% of its employees without notifying the union of its decision.
In response to the company’s despicable union-busting practices, Local 259 will hold a rally at Empower’s headquarters in Bethpage, New York, on Saturday, January 6th at 9 a.m. ET.
“Working in renewable energy can be a great job, but the industry needs a healthier balance of power between management and labor to ensure sustainable growth.” Empower Solar Employee ‘s Daniel Lozano and Local 259 Vice President Michael DiGiuseppe wrote in an op-ed last month. . “These are the jobs of the future. They should pay a living wage, be safe, and be unionized.”
If you’re in the New York area this Saturday, join Local 259 and send a message to EmPower that union-busting is unacceptable.
Who: UAW Local 259, Region 9A
what: Rally against union busting and corporate greed
when: Saturday, January 6, 2024 – 9am ET
where: EmPower-Solar HQ 999 Stewart Avenue, Bethpage, NY 11714