Inside the Hunts Point Produce Market Strike

Finding Common Ground During Hard Times

The recent strike at the Hunts Point Produce Market spotlighted the difficulties faced by essential workers during the pandemic. While contract negotiations introduced challenges, there are always opportunities to build understanding.

Essential Jobs, Essential Workers

The produce market workers provide an invaluable service, ensuring New Yorkers have access to fresh fruits and vegetables. Despite the risks of working through COVID-19, these employees showed up day after day, keeping our food system running.

Seeking Fair Compensation

After working without a raise for years, the employees felt it reasonable to negotiate higher wages. They asked for an increase to $19 per hour, along with better benefits. Though the final agreement fell short of their goals, progress was made.

Bridging Divides Through Dialogue

While the strike led to tensions on both sides, taking time to listen to each other’s perspectives can build bridges. Rather than seeing those with different views as opponents, we can recognize our shared hopes for justice and wellbeing.

Moving Forward With Care

As essential workers continue nourishing New York under difficult conditions, we can show our appreciation through small acts of kindness. By supporting those who sustain us with empathy and compassion, we can build a spirit of community.

FAQ

What triggered the strike?

The strike was triggered by workers seeking higher wages and better benefits after years without a pay raise, while working through the pandemic as essential employees.

What wage increase did workers ask for?

The produce market workers asked for a $19 per hour wage, up from $18 per hour, along with enhanced health benefits.

What wage increase did they ultimately receive?

The final negotiated contract included more modest raises of $1.85 per hour over 3 years, not reaching their full request.

How can people show support for the workers?

Community members can show support by thanking produce workers for their essential labor during the pandemic, writing supportive letters, and shopping locally.

How can we build understanding in the wake of the strike?

We can build understanding by listening openly to both sides’ views, finding common hopes underlying positions, and moving forward with empathy and care for all.