Factory Workers Supported by FIAN Encourage Participation in World Yoga Day
FIAN International celebrated one of its biggest success stories when it helped a group of factory workers reclaim their jobs at a German owned tire factory in Jalisco, Mexico.
Recently, Jesus Nuño, a former member of the workers union turned Chairman of the Board, wrote a letter on behalf of the union, in support of FIAN and World Yoga Day.
“The work that FIAN does in supporting people who, like us, decide to fight for their rights, is essential. I recommend that you, as participants of World Yoga Day support FIAN, so in turn FIAN can support other social struggles and the global struggle for the right to food,” said Mr. Nuño in his letter.
In 2001, the German multinational firm Continental closed its Mexican factory after longstanding conflicts with the local trade union, threatening the workers’ right to food. In response, the workers held a three year long strike and took Continental to court in order to prove that both the factory’s closure and the dismissal of workers were illegal.
FIAN International supported the group through international lobbying actions and organization of a delegation of workers to travel from Mexico to Germany to inform Continental shareholders about their plight.
Three years later, the workers finally achieved all of their demands when the factory was reopened and their jobs reinstated. In addition, these same factory workers were given a 50% stake, and now co-own and manage the very factory that was to be closed.
There is still time to sign up to participate in World Yoga Day and help support the right to adequate food. Join us!
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