AT&T workers walk the picket line over contract dispute

WILMINGTON, N.C. (WWAY)– The Communications Workers Association (CWA) believes AT&T is not negotiating in good faith for a new contract, prompting workers in District 3 to take to the picket lines.

Workers claim AT&T sent representatives without the authority to make decisions, leading to unproductive negotiations.

Lynn Shoemaker, President of the Southeastern North Carolina Central Labor Council, shared what workers are seeking from AT&T:

“They are asking for a decent standard of living for their families, including affordable and accessible healthcare, family and medical leave, and most importantly, respect.”

Workers have been protesting Monday through Friday at various locations.

Thomas Capps, a member of CWA Local 3615, expressed a desire to return to work but stressed that changes are necessary:

“If AT&T agrees to come back to the table and negotiate in good faith, we’re ready to return. There are 17,000 of us across 9 states, and this strike is about ensuring fair negotiations.”

AT&T responded with a statement highlighting three other agreements reached this year, including a recent deal with District 9. The company expressed a willingness to continue discussions with District 3 and hopes to resolve the dispute soon.

Shoemaker believes the strike is empowering the workers:

“This action is about standing up for what’s right. Every time a union fights for its members, it strengthens all of us. We stand in solidarity with the workers out there right now.”