AT&T workers on strike across the Southeast

Thousands of AT&T workers are on strike across the Southeast in nine different states because of what they call “unfair labor practices.”

Here on the Coast, more than a dozen workers are picketing outside of an AT&T location on Highway 53. Despite the rain, they are also set up in several other locations across the area.

Those on strike are technicians who install or repair U-Verse cable devices, install fiber lines, and much more.

Some of the problems these South Mississippi workers say they are dealing with are working seven days a week and not being allowed to use their sick days.

The Communication Workers of America Union that represents them claims AT&T is bargaining in ‘bad faith,’ sending negotiators without the power to make decision to the negotiating table for their new contract discussions. AT&T employee Glenn Posey said, “We want to let all of the customers know, this is nothing against y’all. We just want AT&T to give us the opportunity to provide y’all with a great service and treat us fair as employees. So, we are probably going to be out here Tuesday and Wednesday unless they come to the bargaining table and make some decisions very soon and we hope to be back at work soon.”

In a statement, AT&T says they “remain ready to sit down with union leaders to negotiate a new, improved contract for our employees.”

Workers on the picket lines appear ready for a long strike.