Dear Sisters and Brothers of Local 696,

Since January, your Executive Board has been at the negotiation table with the City, working tirelessly to secure a fair and sustainable contract for all of you—our valued members.

Yesterday, we spent more than 15 grueling hours in negotiations with the City. Despite our best efforts and unwavering commitment, we were not presented with an offer that respects the work you do or meets your basic needs.

As of 12:01 AM, we are officially on strike.

Unless you are a Strike Captain and have already picked up your materials from the union hall, you are to report directly to the picket line at your work site. Strike Captains will be identified by their strike buttons and will supply you with strike signs if you don’t have any. It is essential that you:

• Sign in and out with the same Strike Captain each day.

• Strike for your full work shift to be eligible for strike fund benefits.

Let’s stand strong and united. Join us today at 6:00 PM in front of City Hall for a rally to show our strength, solidarity, and commitment to winning the contract we deserve.

And remember:

NO ONE CROSSES OUR STRIKE LINE WITHOUT A POLICE ESCORT!

Stay strong. Stay united. Hold the line, Local 696!

In Solidarity,

        Anthony “Tony” Dinkins and Aurellia “Rell” Harrell
President and Business Agent, Local 696